ITEM 1.BUSINESS.
The disclosures set forth in this Item are qualified by "ITEM 1A.
ITEM 1A.RISK FACTORS.
Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information
Certain statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and the documents incorporated herein by reference that are not statements of historical fact constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including, without limitation, the statements specifically identified as forward-looking statements within this document. In addition, certain statements in future filings by Park with the SEC, in press releases, and in oral and written statements made by or with the approval of Park which are not statements of historical fact constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Examples of forward-looking statements include: (i) projections of income or expense, earnings per share, the payment or non-payment of dividends, capital structure and other financial items; (ii) statements of plans and objectives of Park or our management or Board of Directors, including those relating to products or services or to potential or pending acquisitions; (iii) statements of future economic performance; and (iv) statements of assumptions underlying such statements. Words such as “believes,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “intends,” “targeted” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements but are not the exclusive means of identifying those statements. The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a “safe harbor” for forward-looking statements to encourage companies to provide prospective information so long as those statements are identified as forward-looking and are accompanied by meaningful cautionary statements identifying important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Park desires to take advantage of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those predicted by the forward-looking statements because of various factors and possible events, including those factors and events identified below. There is also the risk that Park’s management or Board of Directors incorrectly analyzes these risks and uncertainties or that the strategies Park develops to address them are unsuccessful. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made, and, except as may be required by law, Park undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which the statement is made to reflect unanticipated events. All subsequent written and oral
forward-looking statements attributable to Park or any person acting on Park’s behalf are qualified in their entirety by the following cautionary statements.
Economic, Political and Market Risks
The economic impact of COVID-19 or any other pandemic could adversely affect our business, financial condition, liquidity, and results of operations.
In March 2020, the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic and the President of the United States declared COVID-19 a national emergency. COVID-19 has caused significant economic dislocation in the United States as many state and local governments have ordered non-essential businesses to close and residents to shelter in place at home. This has resulted in an unprecedented slow-down in economic activity and a related increase in unemployment. Various state governments and federal agencies are requiring lenders to provide forbearance and other relief to borrowers (e.g., waiving late payment and other fees). The federal bank regulatory agencies have encouraged financial institutions to prudently work with affected borrowers, and new legislation has provided relief from reporting loan classifications due to modifications related to COVID-19.
Given the ongoing and dynamic nature of COVID-19, it is difficult to predict the full impact of the outbreak on our business. The extent of such impact will depend on future developments, which are highly uncertain, including when COVID-19 can be controlled and abated and when and how the economy may be reopened. As of December 31, 2020, we hold and service PPP loans. These PPP loans are subject to the provisions of the CARES Act and to complex and evolving rules and guidance issued by the SBA and other government agencies. We expect that the great majority of our PPP borrowers will seek full or partial forgiveness of their loan obligations. We have credit risk on the PPP loans if the SBA determines that there is a deficiency in the manner in which we originated, funded or serviced loans, including any issue with the eligibility of a borrower to receive a PPP loan. We could face additional risks in our administrative capabilities to service our PPP loans, and risk with respect to the determination of loan forgiveness. In the event of a loss resulting from a default on a PPP loan and a determination by the SBA that there was a deficiency in the manner in which we originated, funded or serviced the PPP loan, the SBA may deny its liability under the guaranty, reduce the amount of the guaranty or, if the SBA has already paid under the guaranty, seek recovery of any loss related to the deficiency.
The spread of COVID-19 has also caused us to modify our business practices, including employee travel, employee work locations, and cancellation of physical participation in meetings, events and conferences. Further, technology in employees’ homes may not be as robust as in our offices and could cause the networks, information systems, applications and other tools available to such employees to be more limited or less reliable. The continuation of these work-from-home measures also introduces additional operational risk, including increased cybersecurity risk from phishing, malware and other cybersecurity attacks, all of which could expose us to risks of data or financial loss and could seriously disrupt our operations and the operations of any impacted customers.
COVID-19 or a new pandemic could subject us to any of the following risks, any of which could, individually or in the aggregate, have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, liquidity and results of operations:
•demand for our products and services may decline, making it difficult to grow assets and income;
•if the economy is unable to substantially reopen, and high levels of unemployment continue for an extended period of time, loan delinquencies, problem assets, and foreclosures may increase, resulting in increased charges and reduced income;
•collateral for loans, especially real estate, may decline in value, which could cause loan losses to increase;
•our allowance for loan losses may have to be increased if borrowers experience financial difficulties beyond forbearance periods, which will adversely affect our net income;
•the net worth and liquidity of loan guarantors may decline, impairing their ability to honor commitments to us;
•as the result of the decline in the Federal Reserve Board’s target federal funds rate, the yield on our assets may decline to a greater extent than the decline in our cost of interest-bearing liabilities, reducing our net interest margin and spread and reducing net income;
•a material decrease in net income or a net loss over several quarters could result in a decrease in the rate of our quarterly cash dividend;
•a prolonged weakness in economic conditions resulting in a reduction of future projected earnings could result in our recording a valuation allowance against our current outstanding deferred tax assets;
•we rely on third-party vendors for certain services and the unavailability of a critical service due to COVID-19 could have an adverse effect on us; and
•continued adverse economic conditions could result in protracted volatility in the price of our Common Shares.
Moreover, our future success and profitability substantially depend on the management skills of our executive officers and directors, many of whom have held officer and director positions with us for many years. The unanticipated loss or unavailability of key employees due to COVID-19 or any similar pandemic could harm our ability to operate our business or execute our business strategy. We may not be successful in finding and integrating suitable successors in the event of key employee loss or unavailability.
Even after the COVID-19 pandemic subsides, the U.S. economy will likely require time to recover, the length of which is unknown and during which the United States may experience a recession. Our business could be materially and adversely affected by any such recession.
To the extent the effects of COVID-19 adversely impact our business, financial condition, liquidity or results of operations, it may also have the effect of heightening many of the other risks described in this section.
Changes in economic and political conditions could adversely affect our earnings and capital through declines in deposits, quality of investment securities, loan demand, our borrowers’ ability to repay loans, and the value of the collateral securing our loans.
Our success depends, to a certain extent, upon local and national economic and political conditions, as well as governmental fiscal and monetary policies. Conditions such as inflation, recession, unemployment, changes in interest rates, fiscal and monetary policy, tariffs, a U.S. withdrawal from or significant renegotiation of trade agreements, trade wars, the election of a new U.S. President and changes in the membership of Congress in 2020, and other factors beyond our control may adversely affect our deposit levels and composition, the quality of our assets including investment securities available for purchase and the demand for loans, which, in turn, may adversely affect our earnings and capital. Recent political developments have resulted in substantial changes in economic and political conditions for the United States and the remainder of the world. Disruptions in United States and global financial markets and changes in oil production in the Middle East affect the economy and stock prices in the United States, which can affect our earnings and our capital, as well as the ability of our customers to repay loans. The effects of the United Kingdom leaving the European Union (Brexit) on the United States are currently unknown. Because we have a significant number of real estate loans, decreases in real estate values could adversely affect the value of property used as collateral and our ability to sell the collateral upon foreclosure. Adverse changes in the economy, including those resulting from COVID-19, may also have a negative effect on the ability of our borrowers to make timely repayments of their loans, which would have an adverse impact on our earnings and cash flows.
Changes in the general economic conditions and real estate valuations in our primary market areas could adversely impact results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.
Our lending and deposit gathering activities are concentrated primarily in Ohio, Kentucky, North Carolina and South Carolina. Our success depends on the general economic conditions of our primary market areas, particularly given that a significant portion of our lending relates to real estate located in these regions. Adverse changes in the regional and general economic conditions could reduce our growth rate, impair our ability to collect payments on loans, increase loan delinquencies, increase problem assets and foreclosures, increase claims and lawsuits, increase devaluations recognized within our OREO portfolio, decrease the demand for our products and services and decrease the value of collateral for loans, especially real estate values, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Changes in interest rates could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Our earnings and cash flows depend substantially on our interest rate spread, which is the difference between: (i) the rates we earn on loans, investment securities and other interest earning assets; and (ii) the interest rates we pay on deposits and our borrowings. These rates are highly sensitive to many factors beyond our control, including general economic conditions and the policies of various governmental and regulatory authorities and, in particular, the Federal Reserve Board. Changes in monetary policy influence the origination of loans, the prepayment speed of loans, the purchase of investments, the generation
of deposits and rates of interest received and paid. If market interest rates rise, Park will have competitive pressure to increase the rates that Park pays on deposits, which could result in a decrease of Park's net interest income. If market rates decline, Park could experience fixed-rate loan prepayments and higher investment portfolio cash flows, resulting in a lower yield on earning assets. Park's earnings can also be impacted by the spread between short-term and long-term market interest rates.
Following the COVID-19 outbreak and during 2020, market interest rates have declined significantly. The 10-year U.S. Treasury bond fell below 1.00% on March 3, 2020 for the first time and the Federal Open Market Committee reduced the federal funds rate to a target range of 0.00% to 0.25%. Additionally, the Federal Reserve Board announced it will take the following actions:
•purchase U.S. Treasury bills:
•initiate overnight repurchase agreement operations:
•reinvest principal received on the Federal Reserve's securities portfolio: and
•reduce the interest paid on excess bank reserves held by the Federal Reserve.
While we have taken measures intended to manage the risks of operating in a changing interest rate environment, there can be no assurance that such measures will be effective in avoiding undue interest rate risk, especially in light of the continued economic effects of COVID-19. Information pertaining to the impact changes in interest rates could have on our net income is included in "Table 41 - Interest Rate Sensitivity" in "ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, and is incorporated herein by reference.
A transition away from the London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR") as a reference rate for financial instruments could negatively affect our income and expenses and the value of various financial instruments.
LIBOR is used extensively in the United States and globally as a benchmark for various commercial and financial contracts, including adjustable rate mortgages, corporate debt, interest rate swaps and other derivatives. LIBOR is set based on interest rate information reported by certain banks, which may stop reporting such information after 2021. In November 2020, the administrator of LIBOR announced it will consult on its intention to extend the retirement date of certain offered rates whereby the publication of the one week and two month LIBOR offered rates will cease after December 31, 2021; but, the publication of the remaining LIBOR offered rates will continue until June 30, 2023.
In November 2020, the Federal Reserve Board issued a statement supporting the release of a proposal and supervisory statements designed to provide a clear end date for U.S. Dollar LIBOR (“USD LIBOR”), and the federal bank regulatory agencies issued a release encouraging banks to stop entering into USD LIBOR contracts by the end of 2021, noting that entering into new contracts that use LIBOR as a reference rate after December 31, 2021 would create safety and soundness risks and bank practices will be examined accordingly. It is uncertain at this time the extent to which those entering into financial contracts will transition to any other particular benchmark. Other benchmarks may perform differently than LIBOR or other alternative benchmarks or have other consequences that cannot currently be anticipated. It is also uncertain what will happen with instruments that rely on LIBOR for future interest rate adjustments and which remain outstanding if LIBOR ceases to exist.
The Federal Reserve Board, in conjunction with the Alternative Reference Rates Committee, a steering committee comprised of large U.S. financial institutions, is considering replacing USD LIBOR with a new index calculated by short-term repurchase agreements, backed by U.S. Treasury securities, otherwise known as the Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR"). SOFR is observed and backward-looking, which stands in contrast with LIBOR under the current methodology, which is an estimated forward-looking rate and relies, to some degree, on the expert judgment of submitting panel members. Given that SOFR is a secured rate backed by government securities, it will be a rate that does not take into account bank credit risk (as is the case with LIBOR). SOFR is therefore likely to be lower than LIBOR and is less likely to correlate with the funding costs of financial institutions. Whether or not SOFR attains traction as a LIBOR replacement tool remains in question, although transactions using SOFR have been completed, including by Fannie Mae. Both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac ceased accepting adjustable rate mortgages tied to LIBOR and began accepting mortgages based on SOFR in 2020. We do not believe the change to a benchmark like SOFR will have a material impact on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. Park has limited exposure to LIBOR, with total exposure as of December 31, 2020 of approximately $321.2 million. We do not believe the change to a benchmark like SOFR will have a material impact on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Business Operations Risks
We are exposed to operational risk.
Similar to any large organization, we are exposed to many types of operational risk, including those discussed in more detail elsewhere in this Item, such as reputational risk, legal and compliance risk, the risk of fraud or theft by employees or outsiders, unauthorized transactions by employees or operational errors, including clerical or record-keeping errors or those resulting from faulty or disabled computer or telecommunications systems. These risks are heightened in light of COVID-19.
We may be subject to disruptions of our operating systems arising from events that are wholly or partially beyond our control, which may include, for example, computer viruses, cyber-attacks, spikes in transaction volume and/or customer activity, electrical or telecommunications outages, or natural disasters. We could be adversely affected by operating systems disruptions if new or upgraded business management systems are defective, not installed properly or not properly integrated into existing operating systems. Although we have programs in place related to business continuity, disaster recovery and information security to maintain the confidentiality, integrity and availability of our operating systems, business applications and customer information, such disruptions may give rise to interruptions in service to customers, loss of data privacy and loss or liability to us.
Any failure or interruption in our operating or information systems, or any security or data breach, could cause reputational damage, jeopardize the confidentiality of customer information, result in a loss of customer business, subject us to regulatory intervention or expose us to civil litigation and financial loss or liability, any of which could have a material adverse effect on us.
Negative public opinion can result from our actual or alleged conduct in any number of activities, including lending practices, corporate governance and acquisitions, social media and other marketing activities and from actions taken by governmental regulators and community organizations in response to any of the foregoing. Negative public opinion could adversely affect our ability to attract and keep customers, could expose us to potential litigation or regulatory action, and could have a material adverse effect on our stock price or result in heightened volatility.
Given the volume of transactions we process, certain errors may be repeated or compounded before they are discovered and successfully rectified. Our necessary dependence upon automated systems to record and process our transaction volume may further increase the risk that technical system flaws or employee tampering or manipulation of those systems will result in losses that are difficult to detect, which may give rise to disruption of service to customers and to financial loss or liability. We are further exposed to the risk that our external vendors may be unable to fulfill their contractual obligations (or will be subject to the same risk of fraud or operational errors by their respective employees as we are) or that our (or our vendors’) consumer compliance, business continuity, and data security systems will prove to be inadequate.
Our business could be adversely affected by third-party service providers, data breaches and cyber-attacks.
We face the risk of operational disruption, failure or capacity constraints due to our dependency on third-party vendors for components of our business infrastructure. While we have selected these third-party vendors through our vendor management process, we do not control their operations. Further, the operations of our third-party vendors could fail or otherwise become delayed as a result of COVID-19. As such, any failure on the part of these vendors to perform their various responsibilities for which we are not able to develop alternative providers quickly and cost-effectively, could adversely affect our business and operations.
Regulatory guidance adopted by federal bank regulatory agencies addressing how banks select, engage and manage their third-party relationships could affect the circumstances and conditions under which we work with third-party service providers and the costs of managing such relationships.
Our assets at risk for cyber-attacks include financial assets and non-public information belonging to customers. We use several third-party vendors who have access to our assets via electronic media. Certain cybersecurity risks arise due to this access, including cyber espionage, blackmail, ransom and theft. We employ many preventive and detective controls to protect our assets, and provide mandatory recurring information security training to all employees. To date, we have not experienced any material losses relating to cyber-attacks or other information security breaches, but there can be no assurance that we will not suffer such attacks or attempted breaches, or incur resulting losses in the future. Our risk and exposure to these matters remains heightened due to, among other factors, the evolving nature of these threats, our plans to continue to implement Internet and mobile banking to meet customer demand, the continuing impact of COVID-19 and the governmental and other responses thereto and the current economic and political environment. As cybersecurity and other data security threats continue
to evolve, we may be required to expend significant additional resources to continue to modify and enhance our protective measures or to investigate and remediate any security vulnerabilities.
Failures or material breaches in security of our systems, or those of third-party service providers, may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition and the price of our common shares.
We collect, process and store sensitive consumer data by utilizing computer systems and telecommunications networks operated by both us and third-party service providers. Our dependence upon automated systems to record and process our transactions poses the risk that technical system flaws, employee errors, tampering or manipulation of those systems, or attacks by third parties will result in losses and may be difficult to detect. We have security and backup and recovery systems in place, as well as a business continuity plan, to ensure the computer systems will not become inoperable, to the extent possible. We also routinely review documentation of such controls and backups related to third-party service providers. Our inability to use or access these information systems at critical points in time could unfavorably impact the timeliness and efficiency of our business operations. In recent years, several banks have experienced denial of service attacks in which individuals or organizations flood the bank's website with extraordinarily high volumes of traffic, with the goal and effect of disrupting the ability of the bank to process transactions. Other businesses have been victims of ransomware attacks in which the business becomes unable to access its own information and is presented with a demand to pay a ransom in order to once again have access to its information. We could be adversely affected if one of our employees causes a significant operational break-down or failure, either as a result of human error or where the individual purposefully sabotages or fraudulently manipulates our operations or systems. We may not be able to prevent employee errors or misconduct, and the precautions we take to detect this type of activity might prove ineffective. We are further exposed to the risk that the third-party service providers may be unable to fulfill their contractual obligations (or will be subject to the same risks that we are). These disruptions may interfere with service to our customers, cause additional regulatory scrutiny and result in a financial loss or liability. We are also at risk of the impact of natural disasters, terrorism and international hostilities on our systems or for the effects of outages or other failures involving power or communications systems operated by others.
In addition, there have been instances where financial institutions have been victims of fraudulent activity in which criminals pose as customers to initiate wire and automated clearinghouse transactions out of customer accounts. The massive breach of the systems of a credit bureau in 2019 presents additional threats as criminals now have more information than ever before about a larger portion of our country's population, which could be used by criminals to pose as customers initiating transfers of money from customer accounts. Although we have policies and procedures in place to verify the authenticity of our customers, we cannot assure that such policies and procedures will prevent all fraudulent transfers.
We have implemented security controls to prevent unauthorized access to our computer systems, and we require that our third-party service providers maintain similar controls. However, Park's management cannot be certain that these measures will be successful. A security breach of the computer systems and loss of confidential information, such as customer account numbers and related information, could result in a loss of customers’ confidence and, thus, loss of business. We could also lose revenue if competitors gain access to confidential information about our business operations and use it to compete with us. While we maintain specific "cyber" insurance coverage, which would apply in the event of various breach scenarios, the amount of coverage may not be adequate in any particular case. Furthermore, because cyber threat scenarios are inherently difficult to predict and can take many forms, some breaches may not be covered under our cyber insurance coverage.
Further, we may be affected by data breaches at retailers and other third parties who participate in data interchanges with us and our customers that involve the theft of customer credit and debit card data, which may include the theft of our debit card PIN numbers and commercial card information used to make purchases at such retailers and other third parties. Such data breaches could result in us incurring significant expenses to reissue debit cards and cover losses, which could result in a material adverse effect on our results of operations.
All of the types of cyber incidents discussed above could result in damage to our reputation, loss of customer business, increased costs of incentives to customers or business partners in order to maintain their relationships, litigation, increased regulatory scrutiny and potential enforcement actions, repairs of system damage, increased investments in cybersecurity (such as obtaining additional technology, making organizational changes, deploying additional personnel, training personnel and engaging consultants), increased insurance premiums, and loss of investor confidence and a reduction in our stock price, all of which could result in financial loss and material adverse effects on our results of operations and financial condition.
We extend credit to a variety of customers based on certain internal standards and the judgment of our loan officers. Our credit standards and on-going process of credit assessment might not protect us from significant credit losses.
We take credit risk by virtue of making loans and leases, extending loan commitments and letters of credit and, to a lesser degree, purchasing municipal bonds. Our exposure to credit risk is managed through the use of consistent underwriting standards that emphasize “in-market” lending while avoiding highly leveraged transactions as well as excessive industry and other concentrations. Our loans to non-bank consumer finance companies are made nationally and present different risks than our "in-market" lending, due to the variability of cash flows that support the asset-based loans. Our credit administration function employs risk management techniques to ensure that loans and leases adhere to corporate policy and problem loans and leases are promptly identified. While these procedures are designed to provide us with the information needed to implement policy adjustments where necessary, and to take proactive corrective actions, there can be no assurance that such measures will be effective in avoiding undue credit risk.
Our business and financial results are subject to risks associated with the creditworthiness of our customers and counterparties.
Credit risk is inherent in the financial services business and results from, among other factors, extending credit to customers, purchasing non-governmental securities, and entering into certain guarantee contracts. Credit risk is one of the most significant risks to our business, particularly given the high percentage of our assets represented directly and indirectly by loans and the importance of lending to our overall business. As discussed in the immediately preceding risk factor, many factors impact credit risk, and we manage this by periodically assessing and monitoring the creditworthiness of our customers and by diversifying our loan portfolio.
A borrower's ability to repay a loan can be adversely affected by individual factors, such as business performance, job losses or health issues. A weak or deteriorating economy and changes in the United States or global markets and changes in interest rates also could adversely impact the ability of our borrowers to repay outstanding loans. Any decrease in our borrowers' ability to repay loans would result in higher levels of nonperforming loans, net charge-offs and provision for loan losses.
Financial services institutions are interrelated as a result of trading, clearing and other relationships. We have exposure to many different industries and counterparties, and we routinely execute transactions with counterparties in the financial services industry. Many of these transactions expose us to credit risk in the event of default of our counterparty or client.
Despite maintaining a diversified portfolio, in the ordinary course of business, we may have concentrated credit exposure to a particular person or entity, industry or counterparty. Events adversely affecting specific customers, industries or markets, a decrease in the credit quality of a customer base or an adverse change in the risk profile of a market, industry or group of customers could adversely affect us.
Our credit risk may be exacerbated when collateral held by us to secure obligations to us cannot be realized upon or is liquidated at prices that are not sufficient to recover the full amount of the loan.
Up until 2020, Park's provision for loan losses had declined since the end of the most recent recession, which ended in June 2009, primarily due to improvement in general economic conditions, as well as actions taken by us to better manage our loan portfolio. During 2020, Park experienced elevated provision for loan losses primarily due to the impact of COVID-19. If we were to experience higher levels of provision for loan losses, it could result in lower levels of net income.
Expansion into Kentucky, South Carolina and North Carolina may also expose Park to additional geographic risk.
Our allowance for loan losses may prove to be insufficient to absorb the probable, incurred losses in our loan portfolio.
Lending money is a substantial part of our business. However, every loan we make carries a risk of non-payment. This risk is affected by, among other items: the cash flow of the borrower and/or the project being financed; in the case of a collateralized loan, the changes and uncertainties as to the future value of the collateral; the credit history of a particular borrower; changes in economic and industry conditions; and the duration of the loan.
The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make significant estimates that affect the financial statements. One of our most critical estimates is the level of the allowance for loan
losses. Due to the inherent nature of these estimates, we cannot provide absolute assurance that we will not be required to charge earnings for significant unexpected loan losses.
We maintain an allowance for loan losses that we believe is a reasonable estimate of the probable, incurred losses within the loan portfolio. We make various assumptions and judgments about the collectability of our loan portfolio, including the creditworthiness of our borrowers and the value of the real estate and other assets serving as collateral for the repayment of loans. Through a periodic review and consideration of the loan portfolio, management determines the amount of the allowance for loan losses by considering general market conditions, the credit quality of the loan portfolio, the collateral supporting the loans and the performance of customers relative to their financial obligations with us. The amount of future losses is susceptible to changes in economic, operating and other conditions, including changes in interest rates, which may be beyond our control, and these losses may exceed current estimates. We cannot fully predict the amount or timing of losses or whether the loan loss allowance will be adequate in the future. If our assumptions prove to be incorrect, our allowance for loan losses may not be sufficient to cover the probable, incurred losses in our loan portfolio, resulting in additions to the allowance for loan losses. Excessive loan losses and significant additions to our allowance for loan losses could have a material adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations.
In addition, bank regulators periodically review our allowance for loan losses and may require us to increase our provision for loan losses or recognize further loan charge-offs. Moreover, the FASB has changed its requirements for establishing the allowance for credit losses. The new accounting guidance (replacing the incurred loss model with the CECL model) requires banks to record, at the time of origination, credit losses expected throughout the life of financial assets measured at amortized cost, including loan receivables, HTM debt securities and reinsurance receivables, and off-balance sheet credit exposures not accounted for as insurance (loan commitments, standby letters of credit, financial guarantees and other similar instruments) and net investments in leases recognized by a lessor. The new accounting guidance was to have been adopted by Park as of January 1, 2020. However, Section 4014 of the CARES Act provided financial institutions with optional temporary relief from having to comply with the CECL methodology which would have expired on December 31, 2020 and Section 540 of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 further extended the relief period so that the temporary relief will expire on the earlier of the first day of the fiscal year that begins after the date on which the national emergency concerning COVID-19 terminates or January 1, 2022.
Park elected to delay the implementation of CECL following the approval of the CARES Act and Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 and will not adopt CECL until January 1, 2021.
The CECL standard requires financial institutions to determine periodic estimates of lifetime expected credit losses on loans and recognize the expected credit losses as allowances for credit losses. This will change the current method of providing allowances for credit losses that are probable, which would likely require us to increase our allowance for credit losses, and to greatly increase the types of data we would need to collect and review to determine the appropriate level of allowance for credit losses. Any increase in our allowance for credit losses or expenses incurred to determine the appropriate level of the allowance for credit losses may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. For further discussion, see "Note 2 - Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements and Issued But Not Yet Effective Accounting Standards” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in "ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA."
Management is currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of this new accounting guidance on Park's consolidated financial statements. Park formed a cross-functional CECL Committee and engaged a third party vendor to assist with the adoption of the CECL standard. Based on preliminary modeling results, management estimates that the reserve will increase to between $90 million and $100 million upon adoption, with the day 1 increase being recorded through a one-time cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings as of January 1, 2021. The actual impact from adopting this guidance may be subject to change based upon refinement and finalization of the model and associated assumptions, the refinement and finalization of qualitative factors, the implementation and testing of certain internal controls ensuring model effectiveness and management's judgment.
We depend upon the accuracy and completeness of information about customers and counterparties.
In deciding whether to extend credit or enter into other transactions with customers and counterparties, we may rely on information provided to us by customers and counterparties, including financial statements and other financial information. We may also rely on representations of customers and counterparties as to the accuracy and completeness of that information and, with respect to financial statements, on reports of independent auditors. For example, in deciding whether to extend credit to a business, we may assume that the customer’s audited financial statements conform with U.S. GAAP and present fairly, in all material respects, the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the customer. We may also rely on the audit
report covering those financial statements. Our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be negatively impacted to the extent that we rely on financial statements that do not comply with U.S. GAAP or on financial statements and other financial information that are materially misleading.
We may be required to repurchase loans we have sold or to indemnify loan purchasers under the terms of the sale agreements, which could adversely affect our liquidity, results of operations and financial condition.
When we sell a mortgage loan, we may agree to repurchase or substitute a mortgage loan if we are later found to have breached any representation or warranty we made about the loan or if the borrower is later found to have committed fraud in connection with the origination of the loan. While we have underwriting policies and procedures designed to avoid breaches of representations and warranties we have made and borrower fraud, there can be no assurance that no breach or fraud will ever occur. Required repurchases, substitutions or indemnifications could have an adverse effect on our liquidity, results of operations and financial condition.
We are subject to environmental liability risk associated with lending activities.
A significant portion of our loan portfolio is secured by real property. During the ordinary course of business, we foreclose on and take title to properties securing certain loans. In doing so, there is a risk that hazardous or toxic substances could be found on these properties. If hazardous or toxic substances are found, we may be liable for remediation costs, as well as for personal injury and property damage. Environmental laws may require us to incur substantial expenses and may materially reduce the affected property’s value or limit our ability to use or sell the affected property. In addition, future laws or more stringent interpretations or enforcement policies with respect to existing laws may increase our exposure to environmental liability. Environmental reviews of real property before initiating foreclosure actions may not be sufficient to detect all potential environmental hazards. The remediation costs and any other financial liabilities associated with an environmental hazard could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Noncompliance with the Bank Secrecy Act and other anti-money laundering statutes and regulations could cause us to experience a material financial loss.
The Bank Secrecy Act and the Patriot Act contain anti-money laundering and financial transparency provisions intended to detect and prevent the use of the U.S. financial system for money laundering and terrorist financing activities. The Bank Secrecy Act, as amended by the Patriot Act, requires depository institutions and their holding companies to undertake activities including maintaining an anti-money laundering program, verifying the identity of clients, monitoring for and reporting suspicious transactions, reporting on cash transactions exceeding specified thresholds, and responding to requests for information by regulatory authorities and law enforcement agencies. Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (also known as FinCEN), a unit of the Treasury Department that administers the Bank Secrecy Act, is authorized to impose significant civil money penalties for violations of those requirements and has recently engaged in coordinated enforcement efforts with the federal bank regulatory agencies, as well as the U.S. Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration, and Internal Revenue Service.
There is also increased scrutiny of compliance with the rules enforced by OFAC. If our policies, procedures and systems are deemed deficient, or if the policies, procedures and systems of the financial institutions that we have already acquired or may acquire in the future are deficient, we may be subject to liability, including fines and regulatory actions such as restrictions on our ability to pay dividends and the necessity to obtain regulatory approvals to proceed with certain planned business activities, including acquisition plans, which could negatively impact our business, financial condition and results of operations. Failure to maintain and implement adequate programs to combat money laundering and terrorist financing could also have serious reputational consequences for us.
We operate in a highly competitive environment, in terms of the products and services we offer and the geographic markets in which we conduct business, as well as in our labor markets where we compete for talented employees.
Competition could adversely impact our customer acquisition, growth and retention, as well as our credit spreads and product pricing, causing us to lose market share and deposits and revenues.
We are subject to intense competition from various financial institutions as well as from non-bank entities that engage in many similar activities without being subject to bank regulatory supervision and restrictions. This competition is described in "ITEM 1. BUSINESS" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K under the caption "Competition." Competition in our industry could intensify as a result of the increasing consolidation of financial services companies, in connection with current market conditions or otherwise. Consumers may also move money out of bank deposits in favor of other investments. Customers have increasingly used bill payment services that do not utilize banks. The OCC has begun to accept applications for national bank charters from non-depository financial technology companies engaged in banking activities, although the OCC's authority to do so is being challenged in a case brought in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. These trends may result in losses of deposits and fee income.
The principal bases for competition are pricing (including the interest rates charged on loans or paid on interest bearing deposits), product structure, the range of products and services offered, and the quality of customer service (including convenience and responsiveness to customer needs and concerns). The ability to access and use technology is an increasingly important competitive factor in the financial services industry, and it is a critically important component to customer satisfaction as it affects our ability to deliver the right products and services.
Another increasingly competitive factor in the financial services industry is the competition to attract and retain talented associates across many of our business and support areas. This competition leads to increased expenses in many business areas and can also cause us to not pursue certain business opportunities.
A failure to adequately address the competitive pressures we face could make it harder for us to attract and retain customers across our businesses. On the other hand, meeting these competitive pressures could require us to incur significant additional expense, to reevaluate the number of branches through which we serve our customers, or to accept risk beyond what we would otherwise view as desirable under the circumstances. In addition, in our interest rate sensitive businesses, pressures to increase rates on deposits or decrease rates on loans could reduce our net interest margin with a resulting negative impact on our net interest income.
We may not be able to adapt to technological change.
The financial services industry is continually undergoing rapid technological change with frequent introductions of new technology-driven products and services. The effective use of technology increases efficiency and enables financial institutions to better serve customers while reducing costs. Our future success depends, in part, upon our ability to address customer needs by using technology to provide products and services that will satisfy customer demands, as well as to create additional efficiencies in our operations. We may not be able to effectively implement new technology-driven products and services or be successful in marketing these products and services to our customers. Failure to successfully keep pace with technological changes affecting the financial services industry could negatively affect our growth, revenue and net income.
We may elect or be compelled to seek additional capital in the future, but that capital may not be available when it is needed.
We are required by federal and state regulatory authorities to maintain adequate levels of capital to support our operations. Federal banking agencies have adopted extensive changes to their capital requirements, including raising required amounts and eliminating the inclusion of certain instruments from the calculation of capital. If we experience significant loan losses, additional capital may need to be infused. In addition, we may elect to raise additional capital to support our business or to finance acquisitions, if any, or we may otherwise elect or be required to raise additional capital. Our ability to raise additional capital, if needed, will depend on our financial performance, conditions in the capital markets, economic conditions and a number of other factors, many of which are outside our control. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that we will be able to raise additional capital if needed or that the terms of available capital will be acceptable to us. If we cannot raise additional capital when needed, it may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
In addition, prior debt offerings could potentially have important consequences to us and our debt and equity investors, including:
•requiring a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations to make interest payments;
•making it more difficult to satisfy debt service and other obligations;
•increasing the risk of a future credit ratings downgrade of our debt, which could increase future debt costs and limit the future availability of debt financing;
•increasing our vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry conditions;
•reducing the cash flow available to fund capital expenditures and other corporate purposes and to grow our business;
•limiting our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and the industry;
•placing us at a competitive disadvantage relative to our competitors that may not be as highly leveraged with debt; and
•limiting our ability to borrow additional funds as needed or take advantage of business opportunities as they arise, pay cash dividends or repurchase securities.
We are continuing to evaluate these risks on an ongoing basis.
Our ability to pay dividends on our Common Shares is limited.
Although we have paid a dividend on our Common Shares every quarter since becoming a public company, our Board of Directors reviews the dividend on a quarterly basis and establishes the dividend rate based on our financial condition, results of operations, capital and other regulatory requirements, and other factors that our Board of Directors deems relevant. As a financial holding company, we are a legal entity separate and distinct from our subsidiaries and affiliates. Our principal source of funds to pay dividends on our Common Shares and service our debt is dividends from our subsidiaries. In the event our subsidiaries become unable to pay dividends to us, we may not be able to service our debt, pay our other obligations or pay dividends on our Common Shares. Accordingly, our inability to receive dividends from our subsidiaries could also have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Various federal and state statutory provisions and regulations limit the amount of dividends that Park National Bank and our other subsidiaries may pay to us without regulatory approval. In addition, the Federal Reserve Board and the OCC have issued policy statements that provide that insured banks as well as financial holding companies and other bank holding companies should generally only pay dividends out of current operating earnings. Thus, the ability of Park National Bank to pay dividends in the future is currently influenced, and could be further influenced, by bank regulatory policies and capital guidelines and may restrict our ability to declare and pay dividends to our shareholders.
Payment of dividends could also be subject to regulatory limitations if Park National Bank were to become “undercapitalized” for purposes of the applicable “prompt corrective action” regulations. “Undercapitalized” is currently defined as having a total risk-based capital ratio of less than 8.0%, a tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of less than 6.0%, a common equity tier 1 capital ratio of less than 4.50%, or a core capital, or leverage, ratio of less than 4.0%. Throughout 2020 and 2021 to date, Park National Bank has been in compliance with all regulatory capital requirements and had sufficient capital under the “prompt corrective action” regulations to be deemed “well-capitalized.” There are also restrictions on the ability of Park National Bank to pay dividends if it does not hold the applicable capital conservation buffer.
If any of our subsidiaries becomes insolvent, the direct creditors of that subsidiary will have a prior claim on that subsidiary’s assets. Our rights and the rights of our creditors will be subject to that prior claim, unless we are also a direct creditor of that subsidiary.
Derivative transactions may expose us to unexpected risk and potential losses.
We are party to a number of derivative transactions. Many of these derivative instruments are individually negotiated and non-standardized, which can make exiting, transferring or settling the position difficult. We carry borrowings which contain embedded derivatives. These borrowing arrangements require that we deliver underlying securities to the counterparty as collateral. We are dependent on the creditworthiness of the counterparties and are therefore susceptible to credit and operational risk in these situations.
Derivative contracts and other transactions entered into with third parties are not always confirmed by the counterparties on a timely basis. While the transaction remains unconfirmed, we are subject to heightened credit and operational risk and, in the event of a default, we may find it more difficult to enforce the underlying contract. In addition, as new and more complex derivative products are created, covering a wider array of underlying credit and other instruments, disputes about the terms of the underlying contracts could arise, which could impair our ability to effectively manage our risk exposures from
these products and subject us to increased costs. Any regulatory effort to create an exchange or trading platform for credit derivatives and other over-the-counter derivative contracts, or a market shift toward standardized derivatives, could reduce the risk associated with such transactions, but under certain circumstances could also limit our ability to develop derivatives that best suit our needs and those of our clients and adversely affect our profitability.
Legislative, Regulatory and Accounting Change Risks
Legislative or regulatory changes or actions could adversely impact us or the businesses in which we are engaged.
The financial services industry is extensively regulated. We are subject to extensive state and federal regulation, supervision and legislation that govern almost all aspects of our operations. Laws and regulations may change from time to time and are primarily intended for the protection of consumers, depositors, borrowers, the DIF and the banking system as a whole, and not to benefit our shareholders. Regulations affecting banks and financial services businesses are undergoing continuous change, especially in light of COVID-19 and the stimulus programs implemented in connection therewith, and management cannot predict the effect of these changes. While such changes are generally intended to lessen the regulatory burden on financial institutions, the impact of any changes to laws and regulations or other actions by regulatory agencies may negatively impact us or our ability to increase the value of our business. Regulatory authorities have extensive discretion in connection with their supervisory and enforcement activities, including the imposition of restrictions on the operation of a financial institution, the classification of assets held by a financial institution, the adequacy of a financial institution’s allowance for loan losses and the ability to complete acquisitions. Additionally, actions by regulatory agencies against us could cause us to devote significant time and resources to defending our business and may lead to penalties that materially affect us and our shareholders. Even the reduction of regulatory restrictions could have an adverse effect on us and our shareholders if such lessening of restrictions increases competition within our industry or our market area.
In light of conditions in the global financial markets and the global economy that occurred in the last decade, regulators have increased their focus on the regulation of the financial services industry. Most recently, the U.S. Congress and the federal agencies regulating the financial services industry have acted on an unprecedented scale in responding to the stresses experienced in the global financial markets. Some of the laws enacted by the U.S. Congress and regulations promulgated by federal bank regulatory agencies subject us, and other financial institutions to which such laws and regulations apply, to additional restrictions, oversight and costs that may have an impact on our business, results of operations or the trading price of our common shares. In addition to laws, regulations and supervisory and enforcement actions directed at the operations of financial institutions, proposals to reform the housing finance market consider significant changes to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, which could negatively affect our sales of loans.
Deposit insurance premiums assessed on Park National Bank may increase and have a negative effect on Park’s results of operations.
We have limited ability to control the amount of premiums we are required to pay for FDIC insurance. The DIF is funded by fees assessed on insured depository institutions. If the costs of future bank failures increase, deposit insurance premiums may also increase. The FDIC has adopted rules revising its assessments in a manner benefiting banks with assets totaling less than $10 billion. There can be no assurance, however, that assessments will not be changed in the future. Federal deposit insurance is described in more detail in the section captioned "Supervision and Regulation of Park and its Subsidiaries - Federal Deposit Insurance" in "ITEM 1. BUSINESS" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Changes in accounting standards, policies, estimates or procedures could impact our reported financial condition or results of operations.
The entities responsible for setting accounting standards, including the FASB, the SEC and other regulatory bodies, periodically change the financial accounting and reporting guidance that governs the preparation of our consolidated financial statements. The pace of change continues to accelerate and changes in accounting standards can be hard to predict and could materially impact how we record and report our financial condition and results of operations. In some cases, we could be required to apply new or revised guidance retroactively, resulting in the restatement of prior period financial statements.
The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make significant estimates that affect the financial statements. Due to the inherent nature of these estimates, actual results may vary materially from management’s estimates.
Additional information regarding Park’s critical accounting policies and the sensitivity of estimates can be found in "ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Our accounting estimates and risk management processes rely on analytical and forecasting models.
The processes we use to estimate our inherent loan losses and to measure the fair value of financial instruments, as well as the processes used to estimate the effects of changing interest rates and other market measures on our financial condition and results of operations, depends upon the use of analytical and, in some cases, forecasting models. These models reflect assumptions that may not be accurate, particularly in times of market stress or other unforeseen circumstances. Even if these assumptions are adequate, the models may prove to be inadequate or inaccurate because of other flaws in their design or their implementation. If the models we use for interest rate risk and asset-liability management are inadequate, we may incur increased or unexpected losses upon changes in market interest rates or other market measures. If the model we use for determining our incurred loan losses is inadequate, the allowance for loan losses may not be sufficient to support charge-offs. If the models we use to measure the fair value of financial instruments are inadequate, the fair value of such financial instruments may fluctuate unexpectedly or may not accurately reflect what we could realize upon sale or settlement of such financial instruments. Any such failure in our analytical or forecasting models could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Strategic Risks
Future expansion may adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations as well as dilute the interests of our shareholders and negatively affect the price of our common shares.
We may acquire other financial institutions, or branches or assets of other financial institutions, in the future. We may also open new branches and enter into new lines of business or offer new products or services. Any such expansion of our business will involve a number of expenses and risks, which may include:
•the time and expense associated with identifying and evaluating potential expansions;
•the potential inaccuracy of estimates and judgments used to evaluate credit, operations, management and market risk with respect to target financial institutions;
•potential exposure to unknown or contingent liabilities of the target financial institution;
•exposure to potential asset quality issues of the target financial institution;
•the time and costs of evaluating new markets, hiring local management and opening new offices, and the delay between commencing these activities and the generation of profits from the expansion;
•our financing of the expansion;
•the diversion of management’s attention to the negotiation of a transaction and the integration of the operations and personnel of the combining businesses;
•risks associated with entry into unfamiliar markets;
•the introduction of new products and services into our existing business;
•the incurrence and possible impairment of goodwill associated with an acquisition and possible adverse short-term effects on our results of operations;
•the risk of loss of key employees and customers;
•the risk associated with differing company cultures; and
•difficulty in receiving appropriate regulatory approval for any proposed transaction.
We may incur substantial costs to expand, and such expansion may not result in the levels of profits we expect. Integration efforts for any future acquisitions may not be successful. We may issue equity securities in connection with acquisitions, which could dilute the economic and voting interests of our existing shareholders.
Any merger or acquisition opportunity that we decide to pursue will ultimately be subject to regulatory approval or other closing conditions. We may expend substantial time and resources pursing potential acquisitions which may not be consummated because regulatory approval or other closing conditions are not satisfied.
Changes in retail distribution strategies and consumer behavior may adversely impact our investments in our financial service office premises and equipment and other assets and may lead to increased expenditures to change our retail distribution channel.
We have significant investments in financial service office premises and equipment for our financial service office network, including 101 financial service offices as well as our retail work force and other financial service office banking assets. Advances in technology such as e-commerce, telephone, internet and mobile banking, and in-branch self-service technologies including automatic teller machines and other equipment, as well as changing customer preferences for these other methods of accessing our products and services, could affect the value of our financial service office network or other retail distribution assets and may cause us to change our retail distribution strategy, close and/or sell certain financial service offices and restructure or reduce our remaining financial service offices and work force. Further advances in technology and/or changes in customer preferences including those related to social media could result in additional changes in our retail distribution strategy and/or financial service office network. These actions could lead to losses on these assets or could adversely impact the carrying value of other long-lived assets and may lead to increased expenditures to renovate and reconfigure remaining financial service offices or to otherwise reform our retail distribution channel.
General Risk Factors
We may be a defendant from time to time in a variety of litigation and other actions, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
We may be involved from time to time in a variety of litigation arising out of our business. The risk of litigation increases in times of increased troubled loan collection activity. Our insurance may not cover all claims that may be asserted against us, and any claims asserted against us, regardless of merit or eventual outcome, may harm our reputation. Should the ultimate judgments or settlements in any litigation exceed our insurance coverage, they could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. In addition, we may not be able to obtain appropriate types or levels of insurance in the future or obtain adequate replacement policies with acceptable terms.
A default by another larger financial institution could adversely affect financial markets generally.
Many financial institutions and their related operations are closely intertwined, and the soundness of such financial institutions may, to some degree, be interdependent. As a result, concerns about, or a default or threatened default by, one financial institution could lead to significant market-wide liquidity and credit problems and/or losses or defaults by other financial institutions. This “systemic risk” may adversely affect our business.
We could suffer a material adverse impact from interruptions in the effective operation of, or security breaches affecting, our computer systems.
We rely heavily on information systems to conduct our business and to process, record, and monitor our transactions. Risks to these systems stem from a variety of factors, including the potential for bad acts on the part of hackers, criminals, employees and others. We and the other businesses with which we deal are also at risk for the impact of natural disasters, terrorism and international hostilities on our systems or for the effects of outages or other failures involving power or communications systems operated by others. Potential adverse consequences of attacks on our computer systems or other threats include damage to our reputation, loss of customer business, litigation and increased regulatory scrutiny, which could also result in financial loss and require additional efforts and expense to prevent such adverse consequences in the future.
We are at risk of increased losses from fraud.
Criminals are committing fraud at an increasing rate and are using more sophisticated techniques. In some cases, these individuals are part of larger criminal rings, which allow them to be more effective. Such fraudulent activity has taken many forms, ranging from wire fraud, debit card fraud, check fraud, mechanical devices attached to ATM machines, social engineering and phishing attacks to obtain personal information, or impersonation of clients through the use of falsified or stolen credentials. Additionally, an individual or business entity may properly identify itself, yet seek to establish a business relationship for the purpose of perpetrating fraud. An emerging type of fraud even involves the creation of synthetic identification in which fraudsters "create" individuals for the purpose of perpetrating fraud. In addition to fraud committed directly against us, we may suffer losses as a result of fraudulent activity committed against third parties. Increased deployment of technologies, such as chip card technology, defray and reduce certain aspects of fraud; however, criminals are turning to other sources to steal personally identifiable information, such as unaffiliated healthcare providers and government entities, in order to impersonate consumers and thereby commit fraud.
Changes in tax laws could adversely affect our performance.
We are subject to extensive federal, state and local taxes, including income, excise, sales/use, payroll, franchise, withholding and ad valorem taxes. Changes to our taxes could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, fair values of net deferred tax assets and obligations of states and political subdivisions held in our investment securities portfolio. In addition, our customers are subject to a wide variety of federal, state and local taxes. Changes in taxes paid by our customers may adversely affect their ability to purchase homes or consumer products, which could adversely affect their demand for our loans and deposit products. In addition, such negative effects on our customers could result in defaults on the loans we have made and decrease the value of mortgage-backed securities in which we have invested.
Adverse changes in the financial markets may adversely impact our results of operations.
While we generally invest in securities issued by U.S. government agencies and sponsored entities and domestic state and local governments with limited credit risk, certain investment securities we hold possess higher credit risk since they represent beneficial interests in structured investments collateralized by residential mortgages, debt obligations and other similar asset-backed assets. Even securities issued by U.S. governmental agencies and sponsored entities may entail risk depending on political and economic changes. Regardless of the level of credit risk, all investment securities are subject to changes in market value due to changing interest rates, implied credit spreads and credit ratings.
ITEM 1B.
ITEM 1B.UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS.
No response required.
ITEM 2.
ITEM 2.PROPERTIES.
Park’s principal executive offices are located at 50 North Third Street, Newark, Ohio 43055.
Park National Bank
As of the date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, Park National Bank and its subsidiary Scope Leasing, Inc. had a total of 97 financial service offices in Ohio, Kentucky, North Carolina and South Carolina. Park National Bank has three financial service offices (including its main office) and three operations centers in Newark in Licking County. We operate a total of 88 financial service offices in Ohio, one financial service office in Kentucky, three financial service offices in North Carolina and five financial service offices in South Carolina. Of the financial service offices described above, 16 are leased and the remainder are owned. Park National Bank also operates 37 off-site automated teller machines.
Scope Leasing, Inc. has an office located in Columbus in Franklin County, Ohio, which it leases.
Guardian Finance
As of the date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, Guardian Finance had a total of four financial service offices, all of which are located in Ohio. Guardian Finance has its main office in Hilliard in Franklin County, a financial service office in Clark County, a financial service office in Fairfield County where it leases space from Park National Bank, and a financial service office in Licking County. All of Guardian Finance’s financial service offices are leased.
SE Property Holdings, LLC
SEPH has one office located in Newark in Licking County, Ohio, which it leases.
ITEM 3.
ITEM 3.LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.
There are no pending legal proceedings which Park or any of its subsidiaries is a party to or which any of their property is subject to, except for routine legal proceedings to which Park's subsidiaries are parties incidental to their respective businesses. Park considers none of those proceedings to be material.
ITEM 4.
ITEM 4.MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES.
Not applicable.
PART II
ITEM 5.
ITEM 5.MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED SHAREHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES.
Park's Common Shares (symbol: PRK) are traded on NYSE American. At December 31, 2020, Park had 3,554 shareholders of record. Park currently intends to continue to pay quarterly cash dividends comparable to the regular quarterly cash dividends paid during the year ended December 31, 2020, subject to the regulatory restrictions described in "Note 24 - Dividend Restrictions" of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in "ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA," as well as in the section captioned "Supervision and Regulation of Park and its Subsidiaries - Limits on Dividends and Other Payments" in "ITEM 1. BUSINESS" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Performance Graph
The following graph compares the cumulative total shareholder return performance for Park's Common Shares with the NYSE Composite Index, the SNL Bank and Thrift Index, and the SNL U.S. Bank NYSE Index for the five-year period from December 31, 2015 to December 31, 2020. The NYSE Composite Index is a market capitalization-weighted index of the stocks listed on NYSE. The SNL Bank and Thrift Index is comprised of all publicly-traded bank holding company and thrift holding company stocks researched by SNL Financial. The SNL U.S. Bank NYSE index is comprised of all publicly-traded U.S. bank holding company stocks listed on NYSE researched by SNL Financial.
The NYSE Financial Stocks Index includes the stocks of bank holding companies, thrift holding companies, finance companies and securities broker-dealers. Park believes that the SNL Bank and Thrift Index and the SNL U.S. Bank NYSE Index are more appropriate industry indices for Park to use for the five-year total shareholder return performance comparison.
The annual compound total return on Park’s Common Shares for the past five years was a positive 7.4%. By comparison, the annual compound total returns for the past five years on the NYSE Composite Index, the SNL Bank and Thrift Index, and the SNL U.S. Bank NYSE Index were a positive 10.2%, a positive 7.7% and a positive 7.9%, respectively.
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
The following table provides information regarding purchases of Park's Common Shares made by or on behalf of Park or any "affiliated purchaser" as defined in Rule 10b-18(a)(3) under the Exchange Act during the fiscal quarter ended December 31, 2020, as well as the maximum number of Common Shares that may be purchased under Park’s previously announced stock repurchase authorizations to fund the 2017 Long-Term Incentive Plan for Employees (the "2017 Employees LTIP") and the 2017 Long-Term Incentive Plan for Non-Employee Directors (the "2017 Non-Employee Directors LTIP") and Park's previously announced 2017 and 2019 stock repurchase authorizations:
(1)The number shown represents, as of the end of each period, the maximum number of Common Shares that may yet be purchased as part of Park’s publicly announced stock repurchase authorizations to fund the 2017 Employees LTIP and the 2017 Non-Employee Directors LTIP, both of which became effective on April 24, 2017; Park's publicly announced stock repurchase authorization covering 500,000 Common Shares which was announced on January 23, 2017; and Park's stock repurchase authorization covering 500,000 Common Shares which was announced on January 28, 2019 and as to which approval from the Federal Reserve was obtained in the form of correspondence from the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland dated April 19, 2019.
At the 2017 Annual Meeting of Shareholders held on April 24, 2017, Park's shareholders approved the 2017 Employees LTIP and the 2017 Non-Employee Directors LTIP. The Common Shares to be issued and delivered under the 2017 Employees LTIP and the 2017 Non-Employee Directors LTIP may consist of either Common Shares currently held or Common Shares subsequently acquired by Park as treasury shares. No newly-issued Common Shares will be delivered under the 2017 Employees LTIP or the 2017 Non-Employee Directors LTIP. On April 24, 2017, Park's Board of Directors authorized the purchase, from time to time, of up to 750,000 Park Common Shares and 150,000 Park Common Shares, respectively, to be held as treasury shares for subsequent issuance and delivery under the 2017 Employees LTIP and the 2017 Non-Employee Directors LTIP.
On January 23, 2017, Park announced that on that same day, the Park Board of Directors authorized Park to purchase, from time to time, up to an aggregate of 500,000 Park Common Shares. On January 28, 2019, Park announced that on that same day, the Park Board of Directors authorized Park to repurchase, from time to time following receipt of any required approval from the Federal Reserve, up to 500,000 Park Common Shares in addition to the 500,000 Park Common Shares which had been authorized for repurchase by the Park Board of Directors on January 23, 2017 and remained available for repurchase as of January 28, 2019. The required approval was received by Park in the form of correspondence from the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland dated April 19, 2019.
Purchases may be made through NYSE American, in the over-the-counter market or in privately negotiated transactions, in each case in compliance with the Ohio General Corporation Law, applicable federal and state securities laws, the rules applicable to issuers having securities listed on NYSE American, regulations promulgated by the Federal Reserve Board and all applicable laws and regulations, each as in effect at the time of each such purchase. Purchases will be made upon such terms and conditions and at such times and in such amounts as any one or more of the authorized officers of Park deem to be appropriate, subject to market conditions, regulatory requirements, any contractual obligations of Park and Park's subsidiaries and other factors, and in the best interest of Park and Park's shareholders. The January 23, 2017 stock repurchase authorization and the January 28, 2019 stock repurchase authorization are distinct from the stock repurchase authorizations to fund the 2017 Employees LTIP and the 2017 Non-Employee Directors LTIP.
ITEM 6.
ITEM 6.SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA.
ITEM 7.
ITEM 7.MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
Management's discussion and analysis addresses the financial condition and results of operations for Park National Corporation and our subsidiaries (unless the context otherwise requires, collectively, "Park" or the "Corporation"). This discussion should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes and the five-year summary of selected financial data included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Management’s discussion and analysis contains forward-looking statements that are provided to assist in the understanding of anticipated future financial performance. Forward-looking statements provide current expectations or forecasts of future events and are not guarantees of future performance. The forward-looking statements are based on management’s expectations and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. Although management believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements.
Risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially include, without limitation:
•the ever-changing effects of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic - - the duration, extent and severity of which are impossible to predict, including the possibility of further resurgence in the spread of COVID-19 - - on economies (local, national and international) and markets, and on our customers, counterparties, employees and third-party service providers, as well as the effects of various responses of governmental and nongovernmental authorities to the COVID-19 pandemic, including public health actions directed toward the containment of the COVID-19 pandemic (such as quarantines, shut downs and other restrictions on travel and commercial, social or other activities), the development, availability and effectiveness of vaccines, and the implementation of fiscal stimulus packages;
•the impact of future governmental and regulatory actions upon our participation in and execution of government programs related to the COVID-19 pandemic;
•Park's ability to execute our business plan successfully and within the expected timeframe as well as our ability to manage strategic initiatives in light of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the various responses to the COVID-19 pandemic;
•general economic and financial market conditions, specifically in the real estate markets and the credit markets, either nationally or in the states in which Park and our subsidiaries do business, may experience a weaker recovery than anticipated, in addition to the continuing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our customers’ operations and financial condition, either of which may result in adverse impacts on the demand for loan, deposit and other financial services, delinquencies, defaults and counterparties' inability to meet credit and other obligations and the possible impairment of collectability of loans;
•factors that can impact the performance of our loan portfolio, including real estate values and liquidity in our primary market areas, the financial health of our commercial borrowers and the success of construction projects that we finance, including any loans acquired in acquisition transactions;
•the effect of monetary and other fiscal policies (including the impact of money supply and interest rate policies of the Federal Reserve Board) as well as disruption in the liquidity and functioning of U.S. financial markets, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and government policies implemented in response thereto, may adversely impact prepayment penalty income, mortgage banking income, income from fiduciary activities, the value of securities, deposits and other financial instruments, in addition to the loan demand and the performance of our loan portfolio, and the interest rate sensitivity of our consolidated balance sheet as well as reduce interest margins;
•changes in consumer spending, borrowing and saving habits, whether due to changes in retail distribution strategies, consumer preferences and behavior, changes in business and economic conditions (including as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and reactions thereto), legislative and regulatory initiatives (including those undertaken in response to the COVID-19 pandemic), or other factors may be different than anticipated;
•changes in unemployment levels in the states in which Park and our subsidiaries do business may be different than anticipated due to the continuing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic;
•changes in customers', suppliers', and other counterparties' performance and creditworthiness may be different than anticipated due to the continuing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic;
•the adequacy of our internal controls and risk management program in the event of changes in the market, economic, operational (including those which may result from more of our associates working remotely), asset/liability repricing, legal, compliance, strategic, cybersecurity, liquidity, credit and interest rate risks associated with Park's business;
•competitive pressures among financial services organizations could increase significantly, including product and pricing pressures (which could in turn impact our credit spreads), changes to third-party relationships and revenues, changes in the manner of providing services, customer acquisition and retention pressures, and our ability to attract, develop and retain qualified banking professionals;
•uncertainty regarding the nature, timing, cost and effect of changes in banking regulations or other regulatory or legislative requirements affecting the respective businesses of Park and our subsidiaries, including major reform of the regulatory oversight structure of the financial services industry and changes in laws and regulations concerning taxes, FDIC insurance premium levels, pensions, bankruptcy, consumer protection, rent regulation and housing, financial accounting and reporting, environmental protection, insurance, bank products and services, bank and bank holding company capital and liquidity standards, fiduciary standards, securities and other aspects of the financial services industry, specifically the reforms provided for in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act and the follow-up legislation in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 (the “Dodd-Frank Act”) and the Basel III regulatory capital reforms, as well as regulations already adopted and which may be adopted in the future by the relevant regulatory agencies, including the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, and the Federal Reserve Board, to implement the provisions of the CARES Act and the follow-up legislation in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, the provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act, and the Basel III regulatory capital reforms;
•the effect of changes in accounting policies and practices, as may be adopted by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the "FASB"), the SEC, the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board and other regulatory agencies, including the extent to which the new current expected credit loss ("CECL") accounting standard issued by the FASB in June 2016 and in accordance with the CARES Act and the follow-up legislation in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, the adoption of which can be deferred by Park until the earlier of: (1) the first day of the fiscal year that begins after the date on which the national emergency concerning the COVID-19 outbreak terminates; or (2) January 1, 2022, may adversely affect Park's reported financial condition or results of operations;
•Park's assumptions and estimates used in applying critical accounting policies and modeling, including under the CECL model, when adopted by Park, which may prove unreliable, inaccurate or not predictive of actual results;
•significant changes in the tax laws, which may adversely affect the fair values of net deferred tax assets and obligations of state and political subdivisions held in Park's investment securities portfolio;
•the impact of Park's ability to anticipate and respond to technological changes on Park's ability to respond to customer needs and meet competitive demands;
•operational issues stemming from and/or capital spending necessitated by the potential need to adapt to industry changes in information technology systems on which Park and our subsidiaries are highly dependent;
•the ability to secure confidential information and deliver products and services through the use of computer systems and telecommunications networks;
•a failure in or breach of Park's operational or security systems or infrastructure, or those of our third-party vendors and other service providers, resulting in failures or disruptions in customer account management, general ledger, deposit, loan, or other systems, including as a result of cyber attacks;
•the existence or exacerbation of general geopolitical instability and uncertainty as well as the effect of trade policies (including the impact of potential or imposed tariffs, a U.S. withdrawal from or significant renegotiation of trade agreements, trade wars and other changes in trade regulations and changes in the relationship of the U.S. and its global trading partners);
•uncertainty regarding the impact of changes to the U.S. presidential administration and Congress on the regulatory landscape, capital markets, and the response to and management of the COVID-19 pandemic;
•the impact on financial markets and the economy of any changes in the credit ratings of the U.S. Treasury obligations and other U.S. government - backed debt, as well as issues surrounding the levels of U.S., European and Asian government debt and concerns regarding the growth rates and financial stability of certain sovereign governments, supranationals and financial institutions in Europe and Asia and the risk they may face difficulties servicing their sovereign debt;
•the uncertainty surrounding the actions to be taken to implement the referendum by United Kingdom voters to exit the European Union;
•our litigation and regulatory compliance exposure, including the costs and effects of any adverse developments in legal proceedings or other claims and the costs and effects of unfavorable resolution of regulatory and other governmental examinations or other inquiries;
•continued availability of earnings and excess capital sufficient for the lawful and prudent declaration of dividends;
•the impact on Park's business, personnel, facilities or systems of losses related to acts of fraud, scams and schemes of third parties;
•the impact of widespread natural and other disasters, pandemics (including the COVID-19 pandemic), dislocations, regional or national protests and civil unrest (including any resulting branch closures or damages), military or terrorist activities or international hostilities on the economy and financial markets generally and on us or our counterparties specifically;
•any of the foregoing factors, or other cascading effects of the COVID-19 pandemic that are not currently foreseeable, could materially affect our business, including our customers' willingness to conduct banking transactions and their ability to pay on existing obligations;
•the effect of healthcare laws in the U.S. and potential changes for such laws, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, which may increase our healthcare and other costs and negatively impact our operations and financial results;
•risk and uncertainties associated with Park's entry into new geographic markets with our recent acquisitions, including expected revenue synergies and cost savings from recent acquisitions not being fully realized or realized within the expected time frame;
•the discontinuation of the London Inter-Bank Offered Rate (LIBOR) and other reference rates which may result in increased expenses and litigation, and adversely impact the effectiveness of hedging strategies;
•and other risk factors relating to the banking industry as detailed from time to time in Park's reports filed with the SEC including those described in "Item 1A. Risk Factors" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Park does not undertake, and specifically disclaims any obligation, to publicly release the results of any revisions that may be made to update any forward-looking statement to reflect the events or circumstances after the date on which the forward-looking statement was made, or reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except to the extent required by law.
NON-U.S. GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
Management's discussion and analysis contains non-U.S. GAAP financial measures where management believes it to be helpful in understanding Park’s results of operations or financial position. Where non-U.S. GAAP financial measures are used, the comparable U.S. GAAP financial measure, as well as the reconciliation to the comparable U.S. GAAP financial measure, can be found herein.
Items Impacting Comparability of Period Results
From time to time, revenue, expenses, and/or taxes are impacted by items judged by management of Park to be outside of ordinary banking activities and/or by items that, while they may be associated with ordinary banking activities, are so unusually large that their outsized impact is believed by management of Park at that time to be infrequent or short-term in nature. Most often, these items impacting comparability of period results are due to merger and acquisition activities, management restructuring, branch closures, a rebranding initiative, COVID-19 related expenses and revenue and expenses related to former Vision Bank loan relationships. In other cases, they may result from management's decisions associated with significant corporate actions outside of the ordinary course of business.
Even though certain revenue and expense items are naturally subject to more volatility than others due to changes in market and economic environment conditions, as a general rule volatility alone does not result in the inclusion of an item as one
impacting comparability of period results. For example, changes in the provision for loan losses (aside from those related to former Vision Bank loan relationships), gains (losses) on equity securities, and asset valuation writedowns, reflect ordinary banking activities and are, therefore, typically excluded from consideration as items impacting comparability of period results.
Management believes the disclosure of items impacting comparability of period results provides a better understanding of our performance and trends and allows management to ascertain which of such items, if any, to include or exclude from an analysis of our performance; i.e., within the context of determining how that performance differed from expectations, as well as how, if at all, to adjust estimates of future performance taking such items into account.
Items impacting comparability of the results of particular periods are not intended to be a complete list of items that may materially impact current or future period performance.
Non-U.S. GAAP Ratios
Park's management uses certain non-U.S. GAAP financial measures to evaluate Park's performance. Specifically, management reviews the ratio of tangible equity to tangible assets.
Management has included in this Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation, information relating to the ratio of tangible equity to tangible assets. For the purpose of calculating the ratio of tangible equity to tangible assets, a non-U.S. GAAP financial measure, tangible equity is divided by tangible assets. Tangible equity equals total shareholders' equity less goodwill and other intangible assets, in each case at period end. Tangible assets equals total assets less goodwill and other intangible assets, in each case at period end.
Management believes that the disclosure of the ratio of tangible equity to tangible assets presents additional information to the reader of the consolidated financial statements, which, when read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP, assists in analyzing Park's operating performance, ensures comparability of operating performance from period to period, and facilitates comparisons with the performance of Park's peer financial holding companies and bank holding companies, while eliminating certain non-operational effects of acquisitions. Within the "CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS - Capital" section of this Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, Park has provided detail of the reconciliation of tangible equity to total shareholders' equity and of tangible assets to total assets solely for the purpose of complying with SEC Regulation G and not as an indication that the ratio of tangible equity to tangible assets is a substitute for the ratio of total shareholders' equity to total assets as determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
FTE (fully taxable equivalent) Ratios
Interest income, yields, and ratios on a FTE basis are considered non-U.S. GAAP financial measures. Management believes net interest income on a FTE basis provides a clearer picture of the interest margin for comparison purposes. The FTE basis also allows management to assess the comparability of revenue arising from both taxable and tax-exempt sources. The FTE basis assumes a federal statutory tax rate of 21%. In the tables included within the "ANALYSIS OF EARNINGS - Net Interest Income" section of this Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, Park has provided detail of FTE interest income solely for the purpose of complying with SEC Regulation G and not as an indication that FTE interest income, yields and ratios are substitutes for interest income, yields and ratios, as determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
Paycheck Protection Program ("PPP") Loans
Park originated $543.1 million in loans as part of the PPP. These loans are not typical of Park's loan portfolio in that they are part of a specific government program to support businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic and are 100% guaranteed by the Small Business Administration ("SBA"). As such, management considers growth in the loan portfolio excluding PPP loans, the total allowance for loan losses on originated loans to total originated loans ratio (excluding PPP loans), and general reserve as a % of total originated loans (excluding acquisitions) less impaired commercial loans (excluding PPP loans) in addition to the related U.S. GAAP metrics which are not adjusted for PPP loans.
OVERVIEW
COVID-19 Considerations
Banking has been identified by federal and state governmental authorities to be an essential service and Park is fully
committed to continue serving our customers and communities through the COVID-19 public health crisis. For those in our communities experiencing a financial hardship, Park has offered various methods of support including loan modifications, payment deferral programs, participation in the PPP, planned participation in additional PPP loans authorized under the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, and various other case by case accommodations. Park has implemented various physical distancing guidelines to help protect associates, such as allowing associates to work from home, where practical, while maintaining customer service via our online banking services, mobile app, and ATMs, by keeping drive-thru lanes open to serve customers, maintaining selective open branch offices, and offering other banking services by appointment when necessary.
During 2020, Park provided calamity pay and special one-time bonuses to certain associates. The cost of the calamity pay and special bonuses amounted to $3.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, and is included within salaries expense.
Paycheck Protection Program
Through December 31, 2020, Park had approved and funded 4,439 loans totaling $543.1 million under the PPP. These PPP loans had an average principal balance of $122,000. Of the $543.1 million in PPP loans, 21 loans totaling $68.2 million had a principal balance that was greater than $2 million. For its assistance in making and retaining the 4,439 loans, Park has received an aggregate of $20.2 million in fees from the SBA, of which $13.7 million were recognized within loan interest income during the year ended December 31, 2020. Park funded the PPP loans with excess on-balance sheet liquidity. At December 31, 2020, the remaining balance of PPP loans was $337.1 million.
As of January 31, 2021, Park has submitted approximately 2,656 repayment requests on behalf of borrowers under the PPP to the SBA and has received $260.4 million in payments from the SBA.
During 2021, Park plans to offer additional PPP loans as authorized under the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, signed into law on December 27, 2020. As of February 22, 2021, 1,795 applications had been submitted to the SBA related to these additional PPP loans.
Loan Modifications
During the year ended December 31, 2020, Park modified 5,005 consumer loans, with an aggregate balance of $103.5 million, and modified 1,399 commercial loans, with an aggregate balance of $563.7 million, in each case related to a hardship caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and responses thereto. Park worked with borrowers and provided modifications in the form of either interest only deferral or principal and interest deferral, in each case, for initial periods of up to 90 days. As necessary, Park made available a second 90-day interest only deferral or principal and interest deferral bringing the total potential deferral period to six months. Modifications are structured in a manner to best address each individual customer's current situation. A majority of these modifications are excluded from TDR classification under Section 4013 of the CARES Act or under applicable interagency guidance of the federal banking regulators. Modified loans will be considered current and will continue to accrue interest during the deferral period.
Detail of COVID-19 modifications within Park's loan portfolios during the year ended December 31, 2020 follows:
Of the $667.3 million of COVID-19 modifications during the year ended December 31, 2020, $10.1 million were
greater than 30 days past due in accordance with the modified terms at December 31, 2020.
Detail of COVID-19 modifications on selected commercial loan portfolios during the year ended December 31, 2020 follows:
Many of the initial interest only deferrals or principal and interest deferrals were for an initial period of three months. Park has received requests for additional deferrals. Loans which have had multiple COVID-19 modifications through December 31, 2020 are detailed below.
(1) -Credit Quality Indicators: When determining the quarterly and annual loan loss provision, Park reviews the grades of commercial loans. These loans are graded from 1 to 8. A grade of 1 indicates little or no credit risk and a grade of 8 is considered a loss. Commercial loans that are pass-rated (1 through 4) are considered to be of acceptable credit risk. Commercial loans graded a 5 (special mention) are considered to be watch list credits and a higher loan loss reserve percentage is allocated to these loans. Commercial loans graded a 6 (substandard), also considered watch list credits, are considered to represent higher credit risk and, as a result, a higher loan loss reserve percentage is allocated to these loans. Generally, commercial loans that are graded a 6 are considered for partial charge-off or have been charged down to the net realizable value of the underlying collateral. Commercial loans graded a 7 (doubtful) are shown as nonperforming and Park charges these loans down to their fair value by taking a partial charge-off or recording a specific reserve. Any commercial loan graded an 8 (loss) is completely charged off.
Park considers a loan out of deferral when the first regular payment is due and that payment is subsequently made. The table below details the status of loans with COVID-19 deferrals as of December 31, 2020.
Financial Results by segment
The following table reflects the net income (loss) by segment for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018. Park's segments include The Park National Bank ("PNB"), Guardian Financial Services Company ("GFSC") and "All Other" which primarily consists of Park as the "Parent Company" and SE Property Holdings, LLC ("SEPH"). SEPH is a non-bank subsidiary of Park, holding former Vision Bank OREO property and non-performing loans.
Net income for the year ended December 31, 2020 of $127.9 million represented a $25.2 million, or 24.6%, increase compared to $102.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2019. Net income for both the year ended December 31, 2020 and the year ended December 31, 2019 included several items of income and expense that impact the comparability of period results. These items are detailed in the "ANALYSIS OF EARNINGS - Items Impacting Comparability" section of this Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
The following discussion provides additional information regarding Park's two operating segments, followed by additional information regarding All Other, which consists of the Parent Company and SEPH.
The Park National Bank (PNB)
The table below reflects PNB's net income for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018.
Net interest income of $326.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 represented a $33.2 million, or 11.3%, increase compared to $293.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2019. The increase was a result of a $35.0 million decrease in interest expense, partially offset by a $1.8 million decrease in interest income.
The $1.8 million decrease in interest income was primarily due to a $10.2 million decrease in investment income, partially offset by an $8.4 million increase in interest income on loans. The decrease in investment income was partially the result of a $213.1 million decrease in average investments from $1.35 billion for the year ended December 31, 2019 to $1.14 billion for the year ended December 31, 2020. The decrease in investment income was also the result of a decrease in the average yield on investments, which decreased 10 basis points to 2.66% for the year ended December 31, 2020, compared to 2.76% for the year ended December 31, 2019. The increase in interest income on loans was partially the result of a $786.0 million increase in average loans from $6.19 billion for the year ended December 31, 2019, to $6.97 billion for the year ended December 31, 2020. The increase in average loans was impacted by the addition of average PPP loans of approximately $352.6 million which also resulted in interest and fee income of $16.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2020. The increase in average loans was partially offset by the decrease in the average yield on loans, which decreased 46 basis points to 4.66% for the year ended December 31, 2020, compared to 5.12% for the year ended December 31, 2019. Excluding the impact of PPP loan interest and fee income, the average yield on loans was 4.66%, a decrease of 46 basis points, for the year ended December 31, 2020, compared to 5.12% for the year ended December 31, 2019. Interest income was impacted by the acquisition of CAB Financial Corporation, the parent of Carolina Alliance Bank ("Carolina Alliance") on April 1, 2019. The Carolina Alliance Division contributed an aggregate of $30.6 million to interest income at PNB during the year ended December 31, 2020, compared to $25.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2019.
The $35.0 million decrease in interest expense was primarily due to a $29.5 million decrease in interest expense on deposits as well as a $5.5 million decrease in interest expense on borrowings. The decrease in interest expense on deposits was the result of a decrease in the average cost of deposits of 60 basis points from 1.01% for the year ended December 31, 2019 to 0.41% for the year ended December 31, 2020. This was partially offset by a $209.1 million increase in average interest-bearing deposits from $5.03 billion for the year ended December 31, 2019, to $5.24 billion for the year ended December 31, 2020. The decrease in interest expense on borrowings was partially the result of a $129.2 million decrease in average borrowings from $533.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, to $403.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2020. The average cost of borrowings also decreased by 69 basis points, from 2.10% for the year ended December 31, 2019 to 1.41% for the year ended December 31, 2020. Interest expense was impacted by the acquisition of Carolina Alliance. The Carolina Alliance Division contributed an aggregate of $2.8 million to interest expense at PNB during the year ended December 31, 2020 and $4.1 million during the year ended December 31, 2019.
The provision for loan losses of $30.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 represented an increase of $22.5 million, compared to $8.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2019. Refer to the “CREDIT EXPERIENCE - Provision for Loan Losses" section for additional details regarding the level of the provision for loan losses recognized in each period presented above.
Other income of $124.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 represented an increase of $31.8 million, or 34.5%, compared to $92.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2019. The $31.8 million increase was primarily related to a $21.6 million increase in other service income, which was primarily due to an increase in fee income from mortgage loan originations and investor rate locks; a $3.7 million increase in gain on sale of debt securities; a $3.2 million increase in other components of net periodic benefit income; a $1.9 million increase in debit card fee income; a $1.6 million increase in income
from partnership investments; a $1.1 million increase in income from fiduciary activities; and a $946,000 increase in gain (loss) on sale of OREO, net. These increases were partially offset by a $2.4 million decrease in service charges on deposits. Other income was impacted by the acquisition of Carolina Alliance. The Carolina Alliance Division contributed an aggregate of $8.8 million to other income at PNB during the year ended December 31, 2020 and $3.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2019.
A summary of mortgage loan originations for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 follows. Of total mortgage loan originations shown below for 2020, refinances comprised 48.1% in the first quarter of 2020, 67.8% in the second quarter of 2020, 68.5% in the third quarter of 2020, 71.4% in the fourth quarter of 2020 and 66.7% for the year ended December 31, 2020. Of total mortgage loan originations shown below for 2019, refinances comprised 32.5% in the first quarter of 2019, 29.7% in the second quarter of 2019, 41.3% in the third quarter of 2019, 47.6% in the fourth quarter of 2019 and 39.8% for the year ended December 31, 2019.
The table below reflects PNB's other expense for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.
Other expense of $268.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 represented an increase of $31.5 million, or 13.3%, compared to $237.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2019. The increase in salaries expense was primarily related to increases in base salary expense, severance related expenses, additional compensation incentives, including COVID-19 special one-time bonuses, vacation accruals and officer incentive compensation expense. The increase in employee benefits expense was primarily related to increased pension plan expense and defined contribution plan expense, partially offset by a decrease in group insurance costs.
The increase in occupancy expense was primarily the result of increased depreciation on premises and a write-down in the right-of-use lease asset related to branches that closed September 30, 2020. The increase in furniture and equipment expense was primarily related to increased expenses related to repairs and maintenance on equipment, which also included software maintenance and costs, as well as increased depreciation on furniture and equipment. The increase in data processing fees was related to increased mortgage processing costs, debit card processing costs and other data processing and software costs. The increase in professional fees and services was primarily related to increased title, appraisal and credit costs, increases in management and consulting fees and increases in other fees, partially offset by a $205,000 decrease in temporary wage expense. The increase in insurance expense was primarily due to a $2.2 million assessment credit which had been utilized for the FDIC expense for the year ended December 31, 2019 (and not repeated in 2020), as well as an increase in the assessment base for the year ended December 31, 2020, compared to the same period of 2019. The decrease in communications expense was primarily related to a change in statement mailing and production costs, which resulted in lower direct postage expense, but is more than offset by an increase in supply expense which is included in miscellaneous expense. The increase in the FHLB prepayment penalty was due to a $10.5 prepayment penalty on FHLB borrowings of $150 million repaid during the year ended December 31, 2020. The increase in foundation contributions expense was due to a $3.0 million contribution during the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to $1.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2019. The decrease in miscellaneous expense was primarily related to a decrease in training and travel related expenses as well as decreased non loan related losses.
Other expense was impacted by the acquisition of Carolina Alliance. Of the $268.9 million of total other expense for the year ended December 31, 2020, the Carolina Alliance Division's total other expense was $19.4 million. Of the $237.4 million of total other expense for the year ended December 31, 2019, the Carolina Alliance Division's total other expense was $16.5 million.
The table below reflects PNB's other expense less the impact of the Carolina Alliance Division for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.
The table below provides certain balance sheet information and financial ratios for PNB as of or for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.
(1) Average assets for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.
(2) Calculated utilizing fully taxable equivalent net interest income which includes the effects of taxable equivalent adjustments using a 21% federal corporate income tax rate. The taxable equivalent adjustments were $2.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, and $3.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2019.
Loans outstanding at December 31, 2020 were $7.17 billion, compared to $6.48 billion at December 31, 2019, an increase of $684.2 million, or 10.6%. Excluding the $337.1 million of PPP loans remaining at December 31, 2020, loans
outstanding were $6.83 billion at December 31, 2020, compared to $6.48 billion at December 31, 2019, an increase of $347.1 million, or 5.4%. The table below breaks out the change in loans outstanding, by loan type.
PNB's allowance for loan losses increased by $29.6 million, or 54.2%, to $84.3 million at December 31, 2020, compared to $54.7 million at December 31, 2019. Net charge-offs were $1.2 million, or 0.02% of total average loans, for the year ended December 31, 2020 and were $2.7 million, or 0.04% of total average loans, for the year ended December 31, 2019. Refer to the “CREDIT EXPERIENCE - Provision for Loan Losses" section for additional information regarding PNB's loan portfolio and the level of provision for loan losses recognized in each period presented.
Total deposits at December 31, 2020 were $7.82 billion, compared to $7.13 billion at December 31, 2019, an increase of $695.9 million, or 9.8%. During the year ended December 31, 2020, Park made the decision to participate in a one-way sell (OWS) program in order to manage the balance sheet. At December 31, 2020, Park had $710.1 million in OWS insured cash sweep deposits which were off-balance sheet. Total deposits would have increased $1.4 billion, or 19.7%, compared to December 31, 2019 had the $710.1 million remained on the balance sheet. The table below breaks out the change in deposit balances, by deposit type.
Guardian Financial Services Company ("GFSC")
The table below summarizes GFSC's net income for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018.
The table below provides certain balance sheet information and financial ratios for GFSC as of or for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018.
(1) Average assets for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.
All Other
The table below summarizes the All Other net income (loss) for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018.
The net interest (expense) income for All Other included, for all periods presented, interest income on subordinated debt investments in PNB, which were eliminated in the consolidated Park National Corporation totals, as well as interest income on SEPH impaired loan relationships. The net interest (expense) income for All Other included for year ended December 31, 2020, interest expense on $175.0 million aggregate principal amount of 4.50% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Subordinated Notes due 2030 issued in August 2020.
Net interest (expense) income reflected net interest expense of $2.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, compared to net interest expense of $406,000 for the year ended December 31, 2019. The change was largely the result of an increase in borrowing interest expense, partially offset by an increase in loan interest income related to payment collections at SEPH.
SEPH had net recoveries of $19.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, compared to net recoveries of $2.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2019.
All Other had other income of $1.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, compared to other income of $4.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2019. The change was largely due to a $4.0 million decrease in income related to partnership investments, which went from a $3.9 million gain for the year ended December 31, 2019 to a $21,000 loss for the year ended December 31, 2020, and a $486,000 decrease in gain (loss) on equity securities, net, which went from a $261,000 gain for the year ended December 31, 2019 to a $226,000 loss for the year ended December 31, 2020.
All Other had other expense of $15.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, compared to $23.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2019. The decrease was largely due to an $8.2 million decrease in merger related expenses related to the NewDominion and Carolina Alliance acquisitions.
Park National Corporation
The table below summarizes Park's net income for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018.
DIVIDENDS ON COMMON SHARES
Cash dividends declared on Park's common shares were $4.28 in 2020, $4.24 in 2019 and $4.07 in 2018. The quarterly cash dividend on Park's common shares was $1.22 per share for the first quarter of 2020, and $1.02 per share for the second, third, and fourth quarter of 2020. The first quarter of 2020 included a one-time special cash dividend of $0.20 per share. This is the third year in a row that Park has declared a special cash dividend ($0.20 in both 2020 and 2019, and $0.25 in 2018), which began in 2018 when the corporate federal income tax rate was reduced from 35% to 21% and has continued each year that the tax rates have remained at the lower level. The quarterly cash dividend on Park's common shares was $1.21 per share for the first quarter of 2019, and $1.01 per share for the second, third, and fourth quarter of 2019. The first quarter of 2019 included a one-time special cash dividend of $0.20 per share. The quarterly cash dividend on Park's common shares was $0.94 per share for the first quarter of 2018, $1.21 per share for the second quarter of 2018, and $0.96 per share for the third and fourth quarter of 2018. The second quarter of 2018 included a one-time special cash dividend of $0.25 per share. Please see the discussion of limitations on Park's ability to pay dividends in the section captioned "Supervision and Regulation of Park and its Subsidiaries - Limits on Dividends and Other Payments" in "ITEM 1. BUSINESS" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The significant accounting policies used in the development and presentation of Park’s consolidated financial statements are listed in "Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in "ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA." The accounting and reporting policies of Park conform with U.S. GAAP and general practices within the financial services industry. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and the accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant unprecedented disruption around the world that has affected daily living and negatively impacted the global economy. The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic may meaningfully impact significant estimates such as the allowance for loan losses, goodwill, and pension plan obligations and related expenses.
ALLL - The determination of the ALLL involves a higher degree of judgment and complexity than Park's other significant accounting policies. The ALLL is calculated with the objective of maintaining a reserve level believed by management to be sufficient to absorb probable, incurred credit losses in the loan portfolio. Management’s determination of the adequacy of the ALLL is based on periodic evaluations of the loan portfolio and of current economic conditions. However, this evaluation is inherently subjective as it requires material estimates, including expected default probabilities, the loss given default, the amounts and timing of expected future cash flows on impaired loans, and estimated losses based on historical loss experience and current economic conditions. All of these factors may be susceptible to significant change. To the extent that actual results differ from management estimates, additional loan loss provisions may be required that would adversely impact earnings for future periods.
Fair Value - In accordance with U.S. GAAP, management utilizes the fair value hierarchy, which has the objective of maximizing the use of observable market inputs. The accounting guidance also requires disclosures regarding the inputs used to calculate fair value. These inputs are classified as Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. Level 3 inputs are those with significant
unobservable inputs that reflect a company’s own assumptions about the market for a particular instrument. Some of the inputs could be based on internal models and/or cash flow analyses. The large majority of Park’s financial assets valued using Level 2 inputs consist of AFS debt securities. The fair value of these AFS debt securities is obtained largely by the use of matrix pricing, which is a mathematical technique widely used in the financial services industry to value debt securities without relying exclusively on quoted market prices for the specific securities but rather by relying on the securities’ relationship to other benchmark quoted securities.
Goodwill and other intangible assets - The accounting for goodwill and other intangible assets also involves a higher degree of judgment than most other significant accounting policies. U.S. GAAP establishes standards for the impairment assessment of goodwill and other intangible assets. Goodwill and other intangible assets represents the excess of the purchase price over net identifiable tangible and intangible assets acquired in a purchase business combination. Park’s goodwill relates to the value inherent in the banking industry and that value is dependent upon the ability of PNB, Park’s national bank subsidiary, to provide quality, cost-effective banking services in a competitive marketplace. The goodwill value is supported by revenue that is in part driven by the volume of business transacted. A decrease in earnings resulting from a decline in the customer base, the inability to deliver cost-effective services over sustained periods or significant credit problems can lead to impairment of goodwill that could adversely impact earnings in future periods.
Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are not amortized to expense, but are subject to impairment tests annually, or more frequently, if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired, by assessing qualitative factors to determine whether the existence of events or circumstances leads to a determination that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If after assessing these events or circumstances, it is concluded that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, then performing additional analysis is unnecessary. If the carrying amount of the goodwill exceeds the fair value, an impairment charge must be recorded in an amount equal to the excess, not to exceed the total goodwill allocated to the reporting unit. At December 31, 2020, on a consolidated basis, Park had $159.6 million of goodwill and $9.3 million of other intangibles, all of which are recorded at PNB.
Pension Plan - The determination of pension plan obligations and related expenses requires the use of assumptions to estimate the amount of benefits that employees will earn while working, as well as the present value of those benefits. Annual pension expense is principally based on four components: (1) the value of benefits earned by employees for working during the year (service cost), (2) the increase in the liability due to the passage of time (interest cost), and (3) other gains and losses, reduced by (4) the expected return on plan assets for our pension plan.
Significant assumptions used to measure our annual pension expense include:
•the interest rate used to determine the present value of liabilities (discount rate);
•certain employee-related factors, such as turnover, retirement age and mortality;
•the expected return on assets in our funded plan; and
•the rate of salary increases where benefits are based on earnings.
Our assumptions reflect our historical experience and management’s best judgment regarding future expectations. Due to the significant management judgment involved, our assumptions could have a material impact on the measurement of our pension plan expense and obligation.
ABOUT OUR BUSINESS
Through our national bank subsidiary, PNB, Park is engaged in a general commercial banking and trust business, primarily in Ohio, Kentucky, North Carolina and South Carolina, with the exception of nationwide aircraft loans and nationwide asset-based lending to consumer finance companies. Management believes there are a significant number of consumers and businesses that seek long-term relationships with community-based financial institutions of quality and strength. While not engaging in activities such as foreign lending, nationally syndicated loans or investment banking, Park attempts to meet the needs of our customers for commercial, real estate and consumer loans, and investment, fiduciary and deposit services.
Park’s subsidiaries compete for deposits and loans with other banks, savings associations, credit unions and other types of financial institutions. At December 31, 2020, Park operated 101 financial service offices (including those of PNB, Scope Leasing, Inc. ("Scope Aircraft Finance"), and GFSC) and a network of 117 automated teller machines in 26 Ohio counties, one Kentucky county, three North Carolina counties and four South Carolina counties. SEPH also operated one office, located in Newark, Ohio.
SOURCE OF FUNDS
Deposits: Park’s major source of funds is deposits from individuals, businesses and local government entities. These deposits consist of non-interest bearing and interest bearing deposits.
Average total deposits were $7,633 million in 2020, compared to $6,905 million in 2019, and $6,135 million in 2018. Table 17 provides a summary of deposit balances as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, along with the change over the past year.
During the year ended December 31, 2020, Park made the decision to participate in a one-way sell (OWS) program in order to manage the balance sheet. At December 31, 2020, Park had $710.1 million in OWS insured cash sweep deposits which were off-balance sheet. Total deposits would have increased $1.2 billion, or 17.4%, compared to December 31, 2019 had the $710.1 million remained on the balance sheet.
The average interest rate paid on interest bearing deposits was 0.41% in 2020, compared to 1.01% in 2019, and 0.72% in 2018. The average cost of interest bearing deposits for each quarter of 2020 was 0.19% for the fourth quarter, 0.26% for the third quarter, 0.36% for the second quarter and 0.81% for the first quarter.
Maturities of time deposits in amounts of $100,000 or more as of December 31, 2020 and 2019 were:
Short-Term Borrowings: Short-term borrowings consist of securities sold under agreements to repurchase, Federal Home Loan Bank advances, Federal Funds purchased and other borrowings. These funds are used to manage the Corporation’s liquidity needs and interest rate sensitivity risk. The average rate paid on short-term borrowings generally moves closely with changes in market interest rates for short-term investments. The average rate paid on short-term borrowings was 0.40% in 2020, compared to 1.15% in 2019, and 0.74% in 2018. The year-end balance for short-term borrowings was $342 million at December 31, 2020, compared to $231 million at December 31, 2019, and $222 million at December 31, 2018.
Long-Term Debt: Long-term debt primarily consists of borrowings from the Federal Home Loan Bank and a term note with another financial institution. The average balance of long-term debt and the average cost of long-term debt include the subordinated notes discussed in the following section. In 2020, the average balance of long-term debt was $216 million, compared to $341 million in 2019 and $424 million in 2018. The average interest rate paid on long-term debt was 3.55% in 2020, compared to 2.77% in 2019, and 2.38% for 2018. Average total debt (long-term and short-term) was $495 million in 2020, compared to $557 million in 2019, and $642 million in 2018. Average total debt decreased by $62 million, or 11.1%, in 2020 compared to 2019, and decreased by $85 million, or 13.2%, in 2019 compared to 2018. Average long-term debt was 44% of average total debt in 2020, compared to 61% of average total debt in 2019, and 66% of average total debt in 2018.
Subordinated Notes: Park assumed, with the 2007 acquisition of Vision's parent holding company, $15.5 million of floating rate junior subordinated notes. The $15.5 million of junior subordinated notes were purchased by Vision Bancshares
Trust I ("Trust I") following the issuance of Trust I's $15.0 million of floating rate preferred securities. The interest rate on these junior subordinated notes adjusts every quarter at 148 basis points above the three-month LIBOR interest rate. The maturity date for the junior subordinated notes is December 30, 2035 and the junior subordinated notes may be prepaid, without penalty, after December 30, 2010. These junior subordinated notes qualify as Tier 1 capital under current Federal Reserve Board guidelines.
On August 20, 2020, Park completed the issuance and sale of $175 million aggregate principal amount of its 4.50% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Subordinated Notes due 2030, (the "Subordinated Notes"). The Subordinated Notes initially bear a fixed interest rate of 4.50% per year, payable semi-annually in arrears on March 1 and September 1 of each year, commencing on March 1, 2021. Commencing on September 1, 2025, the Subordinated Notes will bear interest at a floating rate per annum equal to the Benchmark rate, which is expected to be Three-Month Term SOFR, plus a spread of 439 basis points for each quarterly interest period during the floating rate period, payable quarterly in arrears; provided, however, that if the Benchmark rate is less than zero, then the Benchmark rate will be deemed to be zero. The Company may, at its option, beginning with the interest payment date of September 1, 2025 and on any interest payment date thereafter, redeem the Subordinated Notes, in whole or in part, from time to time, subject to obtaining the prior approval of the holders of the Company’s senior indebtedness and of the Federal Reserve Board to the extent the approval of the Federal Reserve Board is then required under the capital adequacy rules of the Federal Reserve Board, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Subordinated Notes being redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon to but excluding the date of redemption. The Subordinated Notes qualify as Tier 2 capital for Park under the Federal Reserve Board's capital adequacy rules.
See "Note 17 - Subordinated Notes" of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in "ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information about the Subordinated Notes.
Shareholders' Equity: The ratio of total shareholders' equity to total assets was 11.21% at December 31, 2020, compared to 11.32% at December 31, 2019, and 10.67% at December 31, 2018. The ratio of tangible shareholders’ equity [shareholders' equity ($1,040.3 million) less goodwill ($159.6 million) and other intangible assets ($9.3 million)] to tangible assets [total assets ($9,279 million) less goodwill ($159.6 million) and other intangible assets ($9.3 million)] was 9.57% at December 31, 2020, compared to 9.51% at December 31, 2019, and 9.28% at December 31, 2018.
In accordance with U.S. GAAP, Park reflects any unrealized holding gain or loss on AFS debt securities, any unrealized net holding gain or loss on cash flow hedging derivatives and any change in the funded status of Park's pension plan, net of income taxes, as accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) which is part of Park’s shareholders’ equity.
The unrealized net holding gain, net of income taxes, on AFS debt securities was $40.7 million at year-end 2020, compared to $17.5 million at year-end 2019, and to the unrealized net holding loss, net of income taxes, of $20.1 million at year-end 2018.
The unrealized net holding loss, net of income taxes, on cash flow hedging derivatives was $698,000 at year-end 2020, compared to $454,000 at year-end 2019. There were no cash flow hedging derivatives at year-end 2018.
In accordance with U.S. GAAP, Park adjusts accumulated other comprehensive income to recognize the net actuarial gain or loss reflected in the funding status of Park’s pension plan. See "Note 20 - Benefit Plans" of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in "ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for information on the accounting for Park’s pension plan. Pertaining to the funding status of the pension plan, Park recognized a net comprehensive loss of $7.7 million in 2020, a net comprehensive gain of $3.0 million in 2019, and a net comprehensive loss of $3.0 million in 2018. The net comprehensive loss in 2020 was due to changes in actuarial assumptions which were partially offset by increased investment returns on pension plan assets. The net comprehensive gain in 2019 was due to changes in actuarial assumptions being more than offset by increased investment returns on pension plan assets. The net comprehensive loss in 2018 was due to changes in actuarial assumptions being more than offset by lower than projected returns on pension plan assets during 2018.
At year-end 2020, the balance in accumulated other comprehensive loss pertaining to the pension plan was $34.4 million, compared to $26.7 million at December 31, 2019, and $29.7 million at December 31, 2018.
INVESTMENT OF FUNDS
Loans: Average loans were $6,990 million in 2020, compared to $6,208 million in 2019, and $5,461 million in 2018. The average yield on average loan balances was 4.71% in 2020, compared to 5.19% in 2019, and 4.98% in 2018.
Approximately 48% of Park’s loan balances mature or reprice within one year (see Table 41). The average yield on average loan balances for each quarter of 2020 was 4.69% for the fourth quarter, 4.54% for the third quarter, 4.63% for the second quarter and 5.02% for the first quarter.
Loan interest income for 2020, 2019, and 2018 included $453,000, $256,000, and $3.4 million, respectively, related to payments received on certain SEPH impaired loan relationships, some of which are participated with PNB. In addition, loan interest income included $4.4 million, $5.2 million and $1.1 million, respectively, of the accretion of loan purchase accounting adjustments related to the acquisitions of NewDominion and Carolina Alliance. Loan interest income for 2020 included interest and fee income related to PPP loans of $16.7 million. Excluding this income, the average yield on loans was 4.63%, 5.09%, and 4.89%, for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018. Excluding this income, the average yield on loans was 4.48% for the fourth quarter of 2020, 4.54% for the third quarter of 2020, 4.58% for the second quarter of 2020, and 4.92% for the first quarter of 2020.
At December 31, 2020, loan balances were $7,178 million, compared to $6,501 million at year-end 2019, an increase of $676 million, or 10.4%. Excluding $337.1 million of PPP loans at December 31, 2020, loans outstanding at December 31, 2020 were $6,841 million, compared to $6,501 million at December 31, 2019, an increase of $340 million, or 5.2%.
Table 19 reports year-end loan balances by type of loan for the past five years.
On a combined basis, year-end commercial, financial and agricultural loans, construction real estate loans and commercial real estate loans increased by $554 million, or 17.7%, in 2020. The increase in 2020 was due to an increase in commercial real estate loans of $138.8 million, an increase in construction real estate loans of $11.7 million and an increase in commercial, financial and agricultural loans of $403.9 million. Included within commercial, financial and agricultural loans are $337.1 million of PPP loans. On a combined basis, year-end commercial, financial and agricultural loans, construction real estate loans and commercial real estate loans increased by $522 million, or 20.0%, in 2019. The increase in 2019 was due to an increase in commercial real estate loans of $326.4 million, an increase in commercial, financial and agricultural loans of $112.3 million and an increase in construction real estate loans of $83.4 million.
Consumer loans increased by $207.3 million, or 14.3%, in 2020 and increased $160.2 million, or 12.4%, in 2019. The increase in consumer loans in each of 2020 and 2019 was primarily due to an increase in automobile lending in Ohio.
Residential real estate loans decreased by $79.7 million, or 4.2%, in 2020 and increased by $99.1 million, or 5.5%, in 2019. The decrease in 2020 was due to a decrease in mortgage loans secured by residential real estate of $80.0 million, a decrease in home equity loans secured by residential real estate of $42.7 million and a decrease in installment loans secured by residential real estate of $4.1 million, partially offset by an increase in commercial loans secured by residential real estate of $47.1 million.
Leases decreased by $5.6 million to $24.4 million in 2020 and increased by $27.8 million in 2019 to $30.1 million at December 31, 2019 compared to $2.3 million as of December 31, 2018. The increase in 2019 was primarily due to the acquisition of Carolina Alliance.
Table 20 summarizes the distribution of maturities for all selected loan segments.
(1) Nonaccrual loans of $93.8 million are included within the one year or less classification above.
(2) Purchase accounting discounts of $5.6 million are included within the one year or less classification above.
Investment Securities: Park’s investment securities portfolio is structured to minimize credit risk, provide liquidity and contribute to earnings. As conditions change over time, Park’s overall interest rate risk, liquidity needs and potential return on the investment portfolio will change. Management regularly evaluates the securities in the investment portfolio as circumstances evolve. Circumstances that could result in the sale of a security include: to better manage interest rate risk; to meet liquidity needs; or to improve the overall yield in the investment portfolio.
AFS debt securities are carried on the books at their estimated fair value with the unrealized holding gain or loss, net of income taxes, accounted for as accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). The debt securities that are classified as AFS are free to be sold in future periods in carrying out Park’s investment strategies.
Prior to September 1, 2019, Park classified certain types of U.S. Government sponsored entity collateralized mortgage obligations (“CMOs”) and tax-exempt municipal securities that it purchased as Held-To-Maturity ("HTM"). These debt securities had been classified as HTM because they were generally not as liquid as the investment securities that Park classified as AFS. A classification of HTM meant that Park had the positive intent and the ability to hold these securities until maturity.
On September 1, 2019, Park adopted the portion of ASU 2019-04 which allowed for a one-time reclassification of securities from HTM to AFS. On this date, Park transferred HTM securities with a fair value of $373.9 million to the AFS classification. The transfer occurred at fair value and had a related unrealized gain, net of taxes, of $19.1 million recorded in other comprehensive income. At year-end 2018, Park’s HTM securities portfolio was $352 million. All of the CMOs, mortgage-backed securities, and callable notes in Park’s investment portfolio were issued by U.S. Government sponsored entities.
Average taxable debt investment securities were $858 million in 2020, compared to $1,052 million in 2019 and $1,192 million in 2018. The average yield on taxable debt investment securities was 2.31% in 2020, compared to 2.49% in 2019 and compared to 2.47% in 2018. Average tax-exempt debt investment securities were $289 million in 2020, compared to $309 million in 2019 and $302 million in 2018. The average tax-equivalent yield on tax-exempt debt investment securities was 3.69% in 2020, compared to 3.67% in both 2019 and 2018.
Total debt securities (at amortized cost) were $1,008 million at December 31, 2020, compared to $1,187 million at December 31, 2019 and $1,381 million at December 31, 2018. Management purchased debt securities totaling $354 million in 2020 and $380 million in 2018. There were no purchases of debt securities in 2019. Proceeds from repayments, redemptions and maturities of debt securities were $224 million in 2020, compared to $196 million in 2019 and $208 million in 2018.
During 2020, Park sold certain AFS debt securities with a book value of $112.5 million at a gross loss of $64,000, and sold certain AFS debt securities with a book value of $196.4 million at a gross gain of $3.4 million. During 2019, Park sold certain AFS debt investment securities with a book value of $62.4 million at a gross loss of $692,000, and sold certain AFS debt investment securities with a book value of $29.1 million at a gross gain of $271,000. During 2018, Park sold certain AFS debt investment securities with a book value of $245.0 million at a gross loss of $2.6 million, sold certain AFS debt securities with a book value of $2.0 million at a gross gain of $60,000, and sold certain HTM debt securities with a book value of $7.4
million at a gross gain of $0.3 million. These HTM securities had been paid down by 96.3% of the principal outstanding at acquisition.
For the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, the average tax-equivalent yield on the total investment portfolio was 2.66%, 2.76% and 2.72%, respectively. The weighted average remaining maturity of the total investment portfolio was 3.5 years at December 31, 2020, 4.2 years at December 31, 2019 and 4.7 years at December 31, 2018. Obligations of the U.S. Treasury and other U.S. Government sponsored entities and U.S. Government sponsored entities' asset-backed securities were approximately 66.9% of the total investment portfolio at year-end 2020, 69.5% of the total investment portfolio at year-end 2019 and 73.5% of the total investment portfolio at year-end 2018.
Other investment securities (as shown on Park's Consolidated Balance Sheets) consist of stock investments in the FHLB, the FRB and equity securities. Total other investment securities were $65 million at December 31, 2020, compared to $70 million at December 31, 2019 and $73 million at December 31, 2018. Management purchased equity securities totaling $3.6 million in 2020, compared to $100,000 in 2019 and $2.6 million in 2018. Management purchased $6.4 million of FRB stock in 2019. There were no FRB stock purchases in 2020 or 2018. Proceeds from the redemption/repurchase of FHLB stock were $8.0 million in 2020, compared to $14.7 million in 2019 and $7.0 million in 2018.
"Gain on equity securities, net" on Park's Consolidated Statements of Income were $2.2 million, $5.1 million and $4.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively. These gains on equity securities were made up of gains (losses) on equity investments carried at fair value as well as gains (losses) on equity investments carried at NAV.
For the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, $(239,000), $345,000 and $(287,000), respectively, of unrealized (losses) gains on equity investments carried at fair value were recorded within "Gain on equity securities, net" on Park's Consolidated Statements of Income. An additional $3.5 million gain recorded within "Gain on equity securities, net" on Park's Consolidated Statements of Income for the year ended December 31, 2018 related to Park's 8.55% investment in NewDominion Bank which merged with Park National Bank on July 1, 2018.
For the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, $2.4 million, $4.8 million and $1.4 million, respectively, of gains on equity investments carried at NAV were recorded within "Gain on equity securities, net" on Park's Consolidated Statements of Income.
The average maturity of the investment portfolio would lengthen if long-term interest rates were to increase as principal repayments from mortgage-backed securities and CMOs would decrease and callable securities would price to their maturity dates. At year-end 2020, management estimated that the average maturity of the investment portfolio would lengthen to 3.8 years with a 100 basis point increase in long-term interest rates and would lengthen to 3.9 years with a 200 basis point increase in long-term interest rates. Likewise, the average maturity of the investment portfolio would shorten if long-term interest rates were to decrease as the principal repayments from mortgage-backed securities and CMOs would increase and callable securities would price to their call dates. At year-end 2020, management estimated that the average maturity of the investment portfolio would decrease to 3.0 years with a 100 basis point decrease in long-term interest rates and to 2.8 years with a 200 basis point decrease in long-term interest rates.
Table 21 sets forth the carrying value of investment securities, as well as the percentage held within each category at year-end 2020, 2019 and 2018:
ANALYSIS OF EARNINGS
Net Interest Income: Park’s principal source of earnings is net interest income, the difference between total interest income and total interest expense. Net interest income results from average balances outstanding for interest earning assets and interest bearing liabilities in conjunction with the average rates earned and paid on them. (See Table 22 for three years of history on the average balances of the balance sheet categories as well as the average rates earned on interest earning assets and the average rates paid on interest bearing liabilities.)
(1)Loan income includes net loan-related fee income, purchase accounting accretion and origination expense in the aggregate amount of $12.9 million in 2020, $0.6 million in 2019 and $3.3 million in 2018. Loan income also includes the effects of taxable equivalent adjustments using a 21% federal corporate income tax rate in 2020, 2019 and 2018. The taxable equivalent adjustments were $623,000 in 2020, $576,000 in 2019 and $528,000 in 2018.
(2)For the purpose of the computation for loans, nonaccrual loans are included in the daily average loans outstanding.
(3)Interest income on tax-exempt investment securities includes the effects of taxable equivalent adjustments using a 21% federal corporate income tax rate in 2020, 2019 and 2018. The taxable equivalent adjustments were $2.2 million in 2020, $2.4 million in 2019 and $2.3 million in 2018.
(4)Includes subordinated notes.
Average interest earning assets for 2020 increased by $680 million, or 8.8%, to $8,419 million, compared to $7,739 million for 2019. Average interest earning assets for 2019 increased by $711 million, or 10.1%, to $7,739 million, compared to $7,028 million for 2018. The average yield on interest earning assets decreased by 42 basis points to 4.28% for 2020, compared to 4.70% for 2019, and 4.46% for 2018. For 2019, the acquisition of Carolina Alliance added average interest earning assets of $432.7 million. For 2018, the acquisition of NewDominion added average interest earning assets of $146.7 million.
Interest income for 2020, 2019, and 2018 included $453,000, $256,000 and $3.4 million, respectively, related to payments received on certain SEPH impaired loan relationships, some of which are participated with PNB as well as $4.4
million, $5.2 million and $1.1 million of purchase accounting accretion for 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively. Interest income for 2020 included $16.7 million of income related to PPP loans. Excluding this income, the average yield on loans was 4.63%, 5.09%, and 4.89%, for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively, the average yield on earning assets was 4.20%, 4.62%, and 4.40%, for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively, and the net interest margin was 3.82%, 3.80% and 3.77%, for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
Average interest bearing liabilities for 2020 increased by $146 million, or 2.6%, to $5,733 million for 2020, compared to $5,586 million for 2019. Average interest bearing liabilities for 2019 increased by $471 million, or 9.2%, to $5,586 million for 2019, compared to $5,115 million for 2018. The average cost of interest bearing liabilities decreased by 60 basis points to 0.52% for 2020, compared to 1.12% for 2019, and 0.86% for 2018. For 2019, the acquisition of Carolina Alliance added average interest bearing liabilities of $368.8 million. For 2018, the acquisition of NewDominion added average interest bearing liabilities of $89.7 million.
The table below shows for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, the average balance and tax equivalent yield by type of loan.
(1) Commercial loan interest income includes the effects of taxable equivalent adjustments using a 21% federal corporate income tax rate in 2020, 2019 and 2018. The taxable equivalent adjustments were $623,000 in 2020, $576,000 in 2019 and $528,000 in 2018.
Loan interest income for 2020, 2019, and 2018 included $453,000, $256,000 and $3.4 million, respectively, related to payments received on certain SEPH impaired loan relationships, some of which are participated with PNB as well as $4.4 million, $5.2 million and $1.1 million of purchase accounting accretion for 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively. The amount of interest related to SEPH impaired loan relationships and purchase accounting accretion included in home equity loan interest income for 2020, 2019 and 2018 was $395,000, $443,000 and $202,000, respectively. Excluding the impact of these items, the average tax equivalent yield on home equity loans was 3.83%, 5.37% and 5.09%, respectively. The amount of interest related to SEPH impaired loan relationships and purchase accounting accretion included in real estate loan interest income for 2020, 2019 and 2018 was $391,000, $617,000 and $545,000. Excluding the impact of these items, the average tax equivalent yield on real estate loans was 4.08%, 4.30% and 4.08%, respectively. The amount of interest related to PPP income, SEPH impaired loan relationships and purchase accounting accretion included in commercial loan interest income for 2020, 2019, and 2018 was $19.9 million, $4.3 million and $3.8 million, respectively. Excluding the impact of these items, the average tax equivalent yield on commercial loans was 4.66%, 5.26% and 5.14%, for 2020, 2019, and 2018, respectively. Excluding the impact of interest related to PPP income, SEPH impaired loan relationships and purchase accounting accretion, the average tax equivalent yield on total loans and leases was 4.64%, 5.09% and 4.89%, for 2020, 2019, and 2018, respectively.
The table below shows for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, the average balance and cost of funds by type of deposit.
(1) Time deposit interest expense for 2020, 2019 and 2018 benefited from $226,000, $593,000 and $287,000, respectively, of purchase accounting accretion related to the acquisition of NewDominion for all of 2020 and 2019 and for the third and four quarters of 2018 and Carolina Alliance for all of 2020 and the second, third and fourth quarters of 2019. Excluding the impact of this accretion, the average cost of funds on time deposits for 2020, 2019 and 2018 was 1.25%, 1.62% and 1.20%, respectively, and the average cost of funds on total interest bearing deposits for 2020, 2019 and 2018 was 0.41%, 1.02% and 0.73%, respectively.
The following table displays (for each quarter of 2020) the average balance of interest earning assets, the net interest income and the tax equivalent net interest income and net interest margin.
(1) Net interest income for the first, second, third and fourth quarters of 2020 included $77,000, $266,000, $8,000 and $102,000, respectively, related to payments received on certain SEPH impaired loan relationships, some of which are participated with PNB. Net interest income for the first, second, third, and fourth quarters of 2020 included $1.4 million, $1.3 million, $1.1 million and $919,000 of purchase accounting accretion related to the acquisition of NewDominion and Carolina Alliance. Net interest income for the second, third, and fourth quarters of 2020 included $3.6 million, $5.1 million and $7.9 million, respectively, related to PPP loans. Excluding the impact of these loan payments and accretion, the tax equivalent net interest margin was 3.85%, 3.95%, 4.05%, and 3.86%, for the first, second, third, and fourth quarters of 2020, respectively, and 3.82% for the year ended December 31, 2020.
In the following table, the change in tax equivalent interest due to both volume and rate has been allocated to volume and rate changes in proportion to the relationship of the absolute dollar amounts of the change in each.
Other Income: Other income was $125.7 million in 2020, compared to $97.2 million in 2019, and $101.1 million in 2018.
The following table displays total other income for Park in 2020, 2019 and 2018.
Other income was impacted by the acquisitions of NewDominion and Carolina Alliance. The NewDominion Division and the Carolina Alliance Division contributed an aggregate of $9.5 million and $4.6 million to other income at Park during the years ended December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively.
Income from fiduciary activities increased by $1.1 million, or 4.0%, to $28.9 million in 2020, compared to $27.8 million in 2019. The $27.8 million in 2019 was an increase of $1.5 million, or 5.6%, compared to $26.3 million in 2018. The increases in fiduciary fee income in 2020 and 2019 were primarily due to improvements in the equity markets and also due to an increase in the total account balances serviced by PNB’s Trust Department. PNB charges fiduciary fees largely based on the market value of the trust assets. The average market value of the trust assets managed by PNB was $6.17 billion in 2020, compared to $5.85 billion in 2019 and $5.49 billion in 2018.
Service charges on deposit accounts decreased by $2.4 million, or 22.1%, to $8.4 million in 2020, compared to $10.8 million in 2019. The $10.8 million in 2019 was a decrease of $626,000, or 5.5%, compared to $11.5 million in 2018. The declines in 2020 and 2019 were related to declines in service charges on deposits, largely as a result of a decline in other non-sufficient funds (NSF) fee income and service charges on demand deposit accounts.
Other service income increased $22.1 million, or 142.7%, to $37.6 million in 2020, compared to $15.5 million in 2019. The $15.5 million in 2019 was an increase of $1.2 million, or 8.6%, compared to $14.3 million in 2018. The increase in 2020 compared to 2019 was primarily related to increase in other service income related to mortgage loan originations, including a $17.2 million increase in fee income related to a $686.5 million increase in mortgage loan originations to be sold in the secondary market, a $1.7 million increase in income related to investor rate locks and loans held for sale, and a $2.3 million increase in mortgage servicing rights income. Sold mortgage origination volume increased by $747.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, compared to the year ended December 31, 2019. The increase in 2019 compared to 2018 was related to increases in other service income due to the acquisitions of NewDominion and Carolina Alliance which increased sold mortgage loan originations.
Debit card fee income, which is generated from debit card transactions, increased $1.9 million, or 9.4%, to $22.2 million, compared to $20.3 million in 2019. The $20.3 million in 2019 was an increase of $2.9 million, or 16.9%, compared to $17.3 million in 2018. The increases in 2020 and 2019 were attributable to continued increases in the volume of debit card transactions, which increased 4.4% in 2020 from 2019 and increased 7.4% in 2019 from 2018. In addition, the increase in 2020 and 2019 was attributable to changes in our point of sale network. Park continues to focus on deposit offerings that incent our customers to use their debit card.
Bank owned life insurance income decreased by $2.3 million, or 33.1%, to $4.6 million in 2019, compared to $6.8 million in 2018. The decrease in 2019 from 2018 of $2.3 million was primarily related to income from death benefits paid on
policies. Park recorded $223,000 of income from death benefits paid on policies in 2019, compared to $2.7 million of income from death benefits paid on policies during 2018.
Gain (loss) on the sale of OREO, net, reflected income of $1.2 million in 2020, an increase of $1.4 million, compared to a loss of $222,000 in 2019, and the loss of $222,000 in 2019 reflected a decrease of $4.5 million, compared to a gain of $4.2 million in 2018. The increase in 2020 was primarily due to a $1.2 million gain on the sale of two OREO properties during 2020, one of which was participated to PNB from SEPH. The decrease in 2019 was primarily due to a $4.1 million gain in 2018 on the sale of one OREO property, which was partially participated to PNB from SEPH.
During 2020, Park sold certain AFS debt securities with a book value of $112.5 million at a gross loss of $64,000, and sold certain AFS debt securities with a book value of $196.4 million at a gross gain of $3.4 million. During 2019, Park sold certain AFS debt securities with a book value of $62.4 million at a gross loss of $692,000, and sold certain AFS debt securities with a book value of $29.1 million at a gross gain of $271,000. During 2018, Park sold certain AFS debt securities with a book value of $245.0 million at a gross loss of $2.6 million, sold certain AFS debt securities with a book value of $2.0 million at a gross gain of $60,000, and sold certain HTM debt securities with a book value of $7.4 million at a gross gain of $0.3 million. These HTM debt securities had been paid down by 96.3% of the principal outstanding at acquisition.
During the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, $(239,000), $345,000 and $(287,000), respectively, of unrealized (losses) gains on equity investments carried at fair value were recorded within "Gain on equity securities, net" on Park's Consolidated Statements of Income. An additional $3.5 million gain recorded within "Gain on equity securities, net" on Park's Consolidated Statements of Income for the year ended December 31, 2018 related to Park's 8.55% investment in NewDominion which was held at December 31, 2017.
For the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, $2.4 million, $4.8 million and $1.4 million, respectively, of unrealized gains on equity investments carried at NAV were recorded within "Gain on equity securities, net" on Park's Consolidated Statements of Income.
Other components of net periodic pension benefit income increased by $3.2 million, or 68.0%, to $8.0 million in 2020, compared to $4.7 million in 2019. The $4.7 million in 2019 was a decrease of $2.1 million, or 30.6%, compared to $6.8 million in 2018. The increase in 2020 was largely due to an increase in the expected return on plan assets as a result of the increased value of plan assets. The decrease in 2019 was largely due to a decrease in the expected return on plan assets based on a decrease in plan assets and increased interest costs.
Gain on the sale of non-performing loans was $2.8 million for 2018. This was related to certain non-performing loans, which had a book balance of $174,000, that were sold in the fourth quarter of 2018. No non-performing loans were sold in 2020 or 2019.
Other Expense: Other expense was 286.6 million in 2020, compared to $264.0 million in 2019, and $228.8 million in 2018. Other expense increased by $22.6 million, or 8.6% in 2020, and increased by $35.2 million, or 15.4%, in 2019. The following table displays total other expense for Park for 2020, 2019 and 2018.
Other expense was impacted by the acquisitions of NewDominion and Carolina Alliance, which closed July 1, 2018 and April 1, 2019, respectively. The NewDominion Division and the Carolina Alliance Division contributed an aggregate of $27.6 million and $27.2 million to other expense at Park during the year ended December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. See Table 31- "Items Impacting Comparability" for further additional expense detail.
Salaries expense increased by $8.5 million, or 7.1%, to $128.0 million in 2020, compared to $119.5 in 2019. The $119.5 million in 2019 was an increase of $15.8 million, or 15.2%, compared to $103.8 million in 2018. The increase in 2020 was due to a $4.6 million increase in salary expense, which was primarily related to increases in base salary and $3.6 million in severance and restructuring related expense, a $1.9 million increase in additional compensation expense, an $850,000 increase in the vacation accrual and a $1.0 million increase in share-based compensation expenses related to PBRSU awards granted under the Park 2013 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the "2013 Incentive Plan") (prior to 2017) and both PBRSU and TBRSU awards granted under the Park 2017 Long-Term Incentive Plan for Employees (the "2017 Employee LTIP").
The increase in salaries expense in 2019 was due to a $13.2 million increase in salary expense, excluding merger-related costs, a $1.6 million increase in salary expense due to merger-related costs for the Carolina Alliance acquisition, and a $1.0 million increase in share-based compensation expense related to PBRSU awards granted under the 2013 Incentive Plan (prior to 2017) and the 2017 Employee LTIP. Park had 1,755 full-time equivalent employees at year-end 2020, compared to 1,907 full-time equivalent employees at year-end 2019, of which 93 full-time equivalent employees were at Carolina Alliance, and compared to 1,782 full-time equivalent employees at year-end 2018, of which 40 full-time equivalent employees were at NewDominion. During 2020, Park closed 23 offices, which resulted to the significant reduction in full-time equivalent employees during 2020.
Employee benefits expense increased $309,000, or 0.8%, to $37.1 million in 2020, compared to $36.8 million in 2019. The $36.8 million in 2019 was an increase of $6.5 million, or 21.5%, compared to $30.3 million in 2018. The increase in 2020 was due to a $2.4 million increase in pension plan expense, a $505,000 increase in miscellaneous employee benefits and a $300,000 increase in the KSOP match, partially offset by a $3.0 million decrease in group insurance costs. The increase in 2019 was due to a $5.0 million increase in group insurance costs, a $1.4 million increase in payroll taxes and a $951,000 increase in the KSOP match, partially offset by a $673,000 decrease in pension plan expense.
Occupancy expense increased by $987,000, or 7.7%, to $13.8 million in 2020, compared to $12.8 million in 2019. The $12.8 million in 2019 was an increase of $1.6 million, or 13.9%, compared to $11.3 million in 2018. The $987,000 increase in 2020 was primarily the result of increased depreciation on premises and a write-down in the right-of-use lease asset related to branches that closed September 30, 2020. The $1.6 million increase in 2019 was primarily related to the acquisition of Carolina Alliance.
Furniture and equipment expense increased $1.8 million, or 10.4%, to $18.8 million in 2020, compared to $17.0 million in 2019. The $17.0 million in 2019 was an increase of $893,000, or 5.5%, compared to $16.1 million in 2018. The increase in 2020 was primarily related to increased expenses related to repairs and maintenance on equipment, which also included software maintenance and costs, as well as increased depreciation on furniture and equipment. The increase in 2019 was primarily due to increases in maintenance and repairs on equipment, as well as the acquisition of Carolina Alliance.
Data processing fees increased by $909,000, or 8.5%, in 2020 to $11.7 million, compared to $10.8 million in 2019. The $10.8 million in 2019 was an increase of $2.3 million, or 26.8%, compared to $8.5 million in 2018. The increase in 2020 was related to increased mortgage processing costs, debit card processing costs and other data processing and software costs. The increase in 2019 was primarily related to the acquisition of Carolina Alliance, as well as an increase in debit card related costs due to an increase in debit card transactions.
Professional fees and services decreased by $2.0 million, or 6.0%, to $31.3 million in 2020, compared to $33.3 million in 2019. The $33.3 million in 2019 was an increase of $4.4 million, or 15.3%, compared to $28.9 million in 2018. This subcategory of total other expense includes legal fees, management consulting fees, director fees, audit fees, regulatory examination fees and memberships in industry associations. The decrease in professional fees and services expense in 2020 was largely related to a $4.4 million decrease in fees related to the acquisition of Carolina Alliance and a $1.0 million decrease in legal expense, partially offset by a $2.1 million increase in management and consulting expense and a $1.2 million increase in title, appraisal and credit costs. The increase in professional fees and services expense in 2019 was largely related to increases in fees related to the acquisition of Carolina Alliance, as well as increases in management and consulting expense.
Insurance expense increased by $3.3 million, or 105.2%, to $6.4 million in 2020, compared to $3.1 million in 2019. The $3.1 million in 2019 was a decrease of $2.2 million, or 40.8%, compared to $5.3 million in 2018. The increase in 2020 and the decrease in 2019 were primarily due to the utilization of a $2.2 million assessment credit to reduce the FDIC insurance expense during the third and fourth quarters of 2019. 2020 was also impacted by an increase in the assessment base compared to 2019.
Communication expense decreased by $1.3 million, or 23.7%, to $4.1 million in 2020, compared to $5.4 million in 2019. The decrease in 2020 was primarily related to a change in statement mailing and production costs, which resulted in
lower direct postage expense, but was more than offset by an increase in supply expense which is included in miscellaneous expense.
Amortization of intangible assets increased $1.8 million, to $2.4 million in 2019, compared to $578,000 in 2018. The amortization of intangible assets was due to the core deposit intangibles from the acquisitions of both NewDominion and Carolina Alliance.
The subcategory "Miscellaneous" other expense includes expenses for supplies, travel, charitable contributions, and other miscellaneous expense. The subcategory miscellaneous other expense decreased by $1.5 million, or 13.1%, to $9.8 million in 2020, compared to $11.2 million in 2019. The $11.2 million in 2019 was an increase of $4.3 million, or 15.4%, compared to $6.9 million in 2018. The $1.5 million decrease in 2020 was primarily due to a decrease in training and travel related expenses as well as a decrease in non-loan related losses. The $4.3 million increase in 2019 was primarily due to a $1.3 million expense related to the write-down of the NewDominion trade name intangible, a $1.3 million increase in operating lease depreciation, a $475,000 increase in training and travel related expenses, a $421,000 increase in miscellaneous merger-related expenses, and a $319,000 increase in supplemental executive retirement plan expense.
Items Impacting Comparability:
From time to time, revenue, expenses, and/or taxes are impacted by items judged by management of Park to be outside of ordinary banking activities and/or by items that, while they may be associated with ordinary banking activities, are so unusually large that their outsized impact is believed by management of Park at that time to be infrequent or short term in nature. Most often, these items impacting comparability of period results are due to merger and acquisition activities, management restructuring, branch closures, a rebranding initiative, COVID-19 related expenses and revenue and expenses related to former Vision Bank loan relationships. In other cases, they may result from management's decisions associated with significant corporate actions outside of the ordinary course of business.
The following table details those items which management believes impacts the comparability of current and prior period amounts.
Income Taxes: Income tax expense was $26.7 million in 2020, compared to $22.1 million in 2019, and $20.9 million in 2018. Income tax expense as a percentage of income before taxes was 17.3% in 2020, 17.7% in 2019 and 15.9% in 2018. The difference between the statutory federal corporate income tax rate of 21% for 2020 and Park’s effective tax rate reflects permanent tax differences, primarily consisting of tax-exempt interest income from municipal investments and loans, qualified affordable housing and historical tax credits, bank owned life insurance income, and dividends paid on common shares held within Park’s salary deferral plan. Park's permanent federal tax differences for 2020 were approximately $6.7 million, compared to $5.3 million for 2019. Park expects permanent federal tax differences for 2021 will be approximately $5.9 million.
CREDIT EXPERIENCE
The allowance for loan losses is that amount believed adequate to absorb probable incurred credit losses in the loan portfolio based on management’s evaluation of various factors. The determination of the allowance requires significant estimates, including the timing and amounts of expected cash flows on impaired loans, consideration of current economic conditions, and historical loss experience pertaining to pools of homogeneous loans, all of which may be susceptible to change. The allowance is increased through a provision for loan losses that is charged to earnings based on management’s quarterly evaluation of the factors previously mentioned and is reduced by charge-offs, net of recoveries.
Provision for Loan Losses: The provision for loan losses is the amount added to the allowance for loan losses to ensure the allowance is sufficient to absorb probable, incurred credit losses. The amount of the provision for loan losses is determined by management after reviewing the risk characteristics of the loan portfolio, historic and current loan loss experience and current economic conditions.
The table below provides additional information on the provision for loan losses and the ALLL for 2020, 2019 and 2018.
For the year ended December 31, 2020, gross income of $9.3 million would have been recognized on loans that were nonaccrual as of December 31, 2020 had these loans been current in accordance with their original terms. Interest income on nonaccrual loans may be recorded on a cash basis and be included in earnings only when Park expects to receive the entire recorded investment of the loan. Of the $9.3 million that would have been recognized, approximately $3.7 million was included in interest income for the year ended December 31, 2020.
Charge-offs for 2020 include the charge-off of $283,000 in specific reserves for which provision expense had been recognized in a prior year, compared to $236,000 for 2019 and $20,000 for 2018. Net (recoveries) charge-offs adjusted for changes in specific reserves as a percentage of average loans for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 were (0.24)%, 0.06%, and 0.15%, respectively.
Loans acquired as part of the acquisitions of NewDominion and Carolina Alliance were recorded at fair value on the date of acquisition. An allowance is only established on these loans as a result of credit deterioration post acquisition. As of December 31, 2020, there was a $678,000 allowance related to acquired loans which were not designated as Purchased Credit Impaired ("PCI") and an allowance of $167,000 related to acquired PCI loans.
SEPH, as a non-bank subsidiary of Park, does not carry an ALLL balance, but recognizes a provision for loan losses when a charge-off is taken and recognizes a recovery of loan losses when a recovery is received.
At year-end 2020, the allowance for loan losses was $85.7 million, or 1.19%, of total loans outstanding, compared to $56.7 million, or 0.87%, of total loans outstanding at year-end 2019, and $51.5 million, or 0.90% of total loans outstanding at year-end 2018. The table below provides additional information related to specific reserves on impaired commercial loans, additional reserves on PCI loans and general reserves for all other loans in Park’s portfolio at December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018.
(1) Excludes PCI loans which are individually evaluated for impairment due to additional credit deterioration post acquisition. These loans had a balance of $0, $5,000 and $475,000 as of December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
(2) Excludes $337.1 million of PPP loans and $337,000 in related allowance at December 31, 2020. No PPP loans were outstanding at December 31, 2019 or December 31, 2018.
The allowance for loan losses of $85.7 million at December 31, 2020 represented a $29.0 million, or 51.2%, increase compared to $56.7 million at December 31, 2019. This increase was largely the result of a $28.2 million increase in general reserves on total originated loans and a $204,000 increase in specific reserves. As of December 31, 2020, a $678,000 allowance had been established for performing purchased loans and a $167,000 allowance had been established for PCI loans. In addition to the established allowance related to purchased loans, as of December 31, 2020, these loans have a remaining purchase accounting discount of $7.2 million. The $28.2 million increase in general reserves was the result of the estimated increase in incurred losses as a result of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. This estimate was established based on consideration of Park's existing environmental loss factors, modification programs Park has put in place, and balances of high risk portfolios such as hotel and accommodations, restaurants and food service and strip shopping centers. Much is still unknown about the long-term economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and management will continue to evaluate this estimate of incurred losses as new information becomes available
Management believes that the allowance for loan losses at year-end 2020 is adequate to absorb probable, incurred credit losses in the loan portfolio. See "Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in "ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, and the discussion under the heading “CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES” earlier in this Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, for additional information on management’s evaluation of the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses.
The table below provides a summary of Park's loan loss experience over the past five years:
The following table summarizes Park's allocation of the allowance for loan losses for the past five years:
As of December 31, 2020, Park had no concentrations of loans exceeding 10% to borrowers engaged in the same or similar industries nor did Park have any loans to foreign governments.
Nonperforming Assets: Nonperforming assets include: 1) loans whose interest is accounted for on a nonaccrual basis; 2) troubled debt restructurings (TDRs) on accrual status; 3) loans which are contractually past due 90 days or more as to principal or interest payments, where interest continues to accrue; 4) OREO which results from taking possession of property that served as collateral for a defaulted loan; and 5) other nonperforming assets. As of December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, other nonperforming assets consisted of aircraft acquired as part of a loan workout.
Generally, management obtains updated appraisal information for nonperforming loans and OREO annually. As new appraisal information is received, management performs an evaluation of the appraisal and applies a discount for anticipated disposition costs to determine the net realizable value of the collateral, which is compared to the outstanding principal balance to determine if additional write-downs are necessary.
The following is a summary of Park’s nonperforming assets at the end of each of the last five years:
Included in nonaccrual loans in the previous table were $1.6 million, $10.3 million and $11.7 million of SEPH nonaccrual loans at December 31, 2018, December 31, 2017, and December 30, 2016, respectively. There were no SEPH nonaccrual loans at December 31, 2020 or December 31, 2019. Included in OREO totals above were $594,000 of SEPH OREO at December 31, 2020, $929,000 of SEPH OREO at December 31, 2019, $1.5 million of SEPH OREO at December 31, 2018, $7.7 million of SEPH OREO at December 31, 2017 and $7.9 million of SEPH OREO at December 31, 2016.
Park classifies loans as nonaccrual when a loan 1) is maintained on a cash basis because of deterioration in the financial condition of the borrower, 2) payment in full of principal or interest is not expected, or 3) principal or interest has been in default for a period of 90 days for commercial loans and 120 days for all other loans. As a result, loans may be classified as nonaccrual despite being current with their contractual terms. The following table details the delinquency status of nonaccrual loans at December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018.
Credit Quality Indicators: When determining the quarterly and annual loan loss provision, Park reviews the grades of commercial loans. These loans are graded from 1 to 8. A grade of 1 indicates little or no credit risk and a grade of 8 is considered a loss. Commercial loans that are pass-rated (1 through 4) are considered to be of acceptable credit risk. Commercial loans graded a 5 (special mention) are considered to be watch list credits and a higher loan loss reserve percentage is allocated to these loans. Commercial loans graded a 6 (substandard), also considered watch list credits, are considered to represent higher credit risk and, as a result, a higher loan loss reserve percentage is allocated to these loans. Generally, commercial loans that are graded a 6 are considered for partial charge-off or have been charged down to the net realizable value of the underlying collateral. Commercial loans graded a 7 (doubtful) are shown as nonperforming and Park charges these loans down to their fair value by taking a partial charge-off or recording a specific reserve. Any commercial loan graded an 8 (loss) is completely charged off.
The following table highlights the credit trends within the commercial loan portfolio.
Commercial loans include: (1) commercial, financial and agricultural loans; (2) commercial real estate loans; (3) certain construction real estate loans; (4) certain residential real estate loans; and (5) leases. Park’s watch list includes all criticized and classified commercial loans, defined by Park as loans rated special mention or worse, less those commercial loans currently considered to be impaired.
Park had $102.9 million of non-impaired commercial loans included on the watch list at December 31, 2020, compared to $28.3 million at December 31, 2019, and $16.5 million at December 31, 2018. The existing conditions of these loans do not warrant classification as nonaccrual. However, these loans have shown some weakness and management performs additional analysis regarding each borrower's ability to comply with payment terms. The $74.6 million increase in non-impaired commercial watch list loans from December 31, 2019 to December 31, 2020 was largely due to $73.2 million of hotels and accommodation loans that were downgraded to special mention or substandard as a result of the impact of COVID-19. In addition to the $73.2 million in hotels and accommodation loans that were downgraded to special mention, $22.0 million in hotels and accommodation loans were downgraded to impaired status. Park is closely monitoring the impact of COVID-19 on
its borrowers' ability to repay their loans in accordance with contractual terms. As additional information becomes available, management will continue to evaluate loans to ensure appropriate risk classification.
Delinquencies have remained low over the past 36 months. Delinquent and accruing loans were $20.1 million, or 0.28% of total loans at December 31, 2020, compared to $23.8 million, or 0.37% of total loans at December 31, 2019, and $31.4 million, or 0.55% of total loans at December 31, 2018.
Impaired Loans: Park’s allowance for loan losses includes an allocation for loans specifically identified as impaired under U.S. GAAP. At December 31, 2020, loans considered to be impaired consisted substantially of commercial loans graded as "substandard" or “doubtful” and placed on non-accrual status. Specific reserves on impaired commercial loans are typically based on management’s best estimate of the fair value of the collateral securing these loans. The amount ultimately charged off for these loans may be different from the specific reserve as the ultimate liquidation of the collateral may be for amounts different from management’s estimates.
Impaired commercial loans were $108.4 million at December 31, 2020, an increase of $30.9 million, compared to $77.5 million at December 31, 2019. A majority of this increase occurred in the second and third quarters of 2020 with September 30, 2020 impaired loans totaling $116.1 million. The $108.4 million of impaired commercial loans at December 31, 2020 included $8.8 million of loans modified in a TDR which are currently on accrual status and performing in accordance with the restructured terms, up from $8.4 million at December 31, 2019. Impaired commercial loans are individually evaluated for impairment and specific reserves are established to cover any probable, incurred losses for those loans that have not been charged down to the net realizable value of the underlying collateral or to the net present value of expected cash flows.
As of December 31, 2020, management had taken partial charge-offs of $655,000 related to the $108.4 million of commercial loans considered to be impaired, compared to charge-offs of $719,000 related to the $77.5 million of impaired commercial loans at December 31, 2019. The table below provides additional information related to Park's impaired commercial loans at December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018.
PCI loans: In conjunction with the NewDominion acquisition, Park acquired loans with deteriorated credit quality with a book value of $5.1 million which were recorded at the preliminary fair value of $4.9 million. In conjunction with the Carolina Alliance acquisition, Park acquired loans with deteriorated credit quality with a book value of $19.9 million which were recorded at the initial fair value of $18.4 million. The carrying amount of loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality at December 31, 2020 was $11.2 million, of which none were considered impaired due to additional credit deterioration post acquisition. The carrying amount of loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality at December 31, 2019 was $14.3 million, of which $5,000 were considered impaired due to additional credit deterioration post acquisition. The remaining $14.3 million were not included in impaired loan totals. The carrying amount of loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality at December 31, 2018 was $4.4 million, of which $475,000 were considered impaired due to additional credit deterioration post acquisition. The remaining $3.9 million were not included in impaired loan totals.
Allowance for loan losses: Loss factors are reviewed quarterly and updated at least annually to reflect recent loan loss history and incorporate current risks and trends which may not be recognized in historical data.
For all loan types, management considers the following factors in determining loan collectability and the appropriate level of the allowance:
•Changes in the nature and volume of the portfolio and in the terms of loans, including:
◦Trends (e.g., growth, reduction) in specific categories of the loan portfolio, as well as adjustments to the types of loans offered by PNB and GFSC.
◦Level of and trend in loan delinquencies, troubled loans, commercial watch list and impaired loans.
◦Level of and trend in new nonaccrual loans.
◦Level of and trend in loan charge-offs and recoveries.
•Changes in lending policies and procedures, including changes in underwriting standards and collection, charge-off, and recovery practices.
•Changes in national and local economic and business conditions and developments that affect the collectability of the portfolio.
•The effect of other external factors such as competition and legal and regulatory requirements on the level of estimated losses in Park's existing portfolio.
The judgmental increases discussed below incorporate management’s evaluation of the impact of environmental qualitative factors which pose additional risks and assignment of a component of the allowance for loan losses in consideration of these factors. Such environmental qualitative factors include: global, national and local economic trends and conditions; experience, ability and depth of lending management and staff; effects of any changes in lending policies and procedures; and levels of, and trends in, consumer bankruptcies, delinquencies, impaired loans and charge-offs and recoveries. The determination of this component of the allowance for loan losses requires considerable management judgment. Actual loss experience may be more or less than the amount allocated.
Commercial Loans
Excluding acquired loans, the allowance for loan losses related to performing commercial loans was $57.1 million, or 1.55% of the outstanding principal balance of performing commercial loans at December 31, 2020. Excluding acquired loans, at December 31, 2020, the coverage level within the commercial loan portfolio was approximately 5.56 times the 132-month historical loss factor compared to 3.40 times the 120-month historical loss factor at December 31, 2019. Historical loss experience, defined as charge-offs plus changes in specific reserves, over the 132-month period ended December 31, 2020, for the commercial loan portfolio was 0.28%. This 132-month loss experience includes only the performance of the PNB loan portfolio and excludes the impact of PNB participations in Vision Bank loans.
Excluding acquired loans, the overall reserve of 1.55% for other accruing commercial loans breaks down as follows: PPP loans are reserved at 0.10%; pass-rated commercial loans are reserved at 1.64%; special mention commercial loans are reserved at 3.47%; and substandard commercial loans are reserved at 3.83%. The reserve levels for pass-rated, special mention and substandard commercial loans in excess of the 132-month loss experience of 0.28% are due to the following factors which management reviews on a quarterly or annual basis:
•Historical Loss Factor: In calculating the allowance for loan losses, management believes it is appropriate to consider historical loss rates that are comparable to the current period being analyzed, giving consideration to losses experienced over a full cycle. As such, a year is added to the look back period each time historical losses are updated, until the economic cycle is complete, as defined by a period of rising charge-offs, considering both internal and industry trends. In updating the historical loss rates to incorporate 2020 losses, management considered if the economic deterioration as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic represented the end of a cycle for the purposes of the allowance for loan loss calculation, but, due to the historically low level of charge-offs, determined 2020 should be included in the cycle beginning in 2010. For the historical loss factor at December 31, 2020, the Company utilized an annual loss rate, calculated based on an average of the net charge-offs and the annual change in specific reserves for impaired commercial loans, experienced during 2010 through 2020 within the individual segments of the commercial and consumer loan categories.
•Loss Emergence Period Factor: Typically, management calculates the loss emergence period for each commercial loan segment on an annual basis. The loss emergence period is calculated based upon the average period of time it takes from the probable occurrence of a loss event to the loan being moved to nonaccrual. If the loss emergence period for any commercial loan segment is greater than one year, management applies additional general reserves to all performing loans within that segment of the commercial loan portfolio. The loss emergence period was last updated in the fourth quarter of 2019. Management did not update the loss emergence period calculation in 2020. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, management performed a timely analysis into its commercial loan portfolio to identify loans
negatively impacted by the pandemic. This resulted in the downgrade of numerous loans to nonaccrual status within months of the loss event (the COVID-19 pandemic). Including these loans artificially lowers the loss emergence period for 2020. Management does not believe this is reflective of what is expected as the loss emergence period for the remaining portfolio.
During the third quarter of 2020, Park made the decision to extend the loss emergence period on all commercial loan types by six months. Management believes that the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020 represents the loss event. Management continues to refine its estimate of incurred losses as a result of this March 2020 loss event. Approximately nine months following the start of the pandemic, Park has experienced very little, if any, increase in delinquencies and charge-offs. Management believes that this is due to the unprecedented level of economic stimulus, CARES Act accommodations, and Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 accommodations provided by the U.S. government which has delayed loan defaults and losses.
•Loss Migration Factor: Park’s commercial loans are individually risk graded. If loan downgrades occur, the probability of default increases, and accordingly, management allocates a higher percentage reserve to those accruing commercial loans graded special mention and substandard. Annually, management calculates a loss migration factor for each commercial loan segment for special mention and substandard credits based on a review of losses over the period of time a loan takes to migrate from pass-rated to impaired. The loss migration factor was last updated in the fourth quarter of 2020.
•Environmental Loss Factor: Management has identified certain macroeconomic factors that trend in accordance with losses in Park’s commercial loan portfolio. Certain environmental loss factors have been determined to correlate with higher charge-offs while other adjustments are based on a subjective evaluation of other environmental loss factors. Environmental factors applicable to the commercial loan portfolio include: the Ohio unemployment rate, percent change in Ohio GDP, the consumer confidence index, the prevalence of fixed rate loans in the portfolio and other environmental factors. In evaluating the ongoing relevance and amount of the other environmental factors, management considers: changes in lending policies and procedures, including changes in underwriting standards and collection, charge-off and recovery practices, changes in national and local economic and business conditions, and developments that affect the collectability of the portfolio, and the effect of other external factors such as competition and legal and regulatory requirements on the level of estimated losses in Park's existing portfolio. All of these factors are evaluated in relation to the historical look back period. At both December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, such subjective environmental loss factor inputs accounted for 42% of the allowance for loan losses driven by environmental loss factors.
These macroeconomic factors are reviewed quarterly and the adjustments made to the environmental loss factor impacting each segment in the performing commercial loan portfolio correlate to changes in the macroeconomic environment in relation to the historical loss period. The environmental loss factors were updated in each quarter of 2020 to consider the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. These factors were increased from 0.60% of applicable loans at December 31, 2019 to 0.675% of applicable loans at March 31, 2020, to 0.75% of applicable loans at June 30, 2020, to 0.825% at September 30, 2020, and to 0.855% at December 31, 2020. The increases in the first and second quarters of 2020 were the result of upward adjustments to the factors for Ohio unemployment, percent change in Ohio GDP and consumer confidence. The increase in the third quarter of 2020 was due to the increased uncertainty in the overall economic environment, the unknown length and severity of the pandemic and the limitations in the incurred loss model to capture all probable incurred losses during such uncertain times. The increase in the fourth quarter was a result of consideration of the other environmental factors in relation to the extended 132-month historical loss period. Management will continue to evaluate this estimate of incurred losses as new information becomes available.
In addition to the increases in the environmental loss factor, in the second quarter, Park added additional reserves for three industries at particularly high risk due to the pandemic: hotels and accommodations, restaurants and food service, and strip shopping centers. These industries have had high levels of deferrals and have been particularly impacted by shut downs of non-essential businesses, increased health department regulations, and changes in consumer behavior. Management expects that a high percentage of the 4-rated credits in these portfolios will eventually migrate to special mention, substandard, or impaired status. As a result, additional reserves totaling $3.8 million were added for these portfolios on top of that already calculated. This amount was calculated by applying the loss factor for special mention credits to all 4-rated loans in these
portfolios. A breakout of the 4-rated balances and additional reserve related to these portfolios is detailed in the following table.
Additionally, management applied a 1% reserve to all hotels and accommodations loans in the general reserve population to account for increased valuation risk. At December 31, 2020, Park's originated hotels and accommodations loans had a balance of $181.4 million with an additional reserve specific to valuation risks of $1.8 million.
As of December 31, 2020, Park had $337.1 million of PPP loans which are included in the commercial, financial and agricultural portfolio segment. These loans are guaranteed by the SBA and thus have not been reserved for using the same methodology as the rest of Park’s loan portfolio. A 10 basis point reserve was calculated for these loans to reflect minimal credit risk.
Consumer Loans
Generally, consumer loans are not individually graded. Consumer loans include: (1) mortgage and installment loans included in the construction real estate segment of the loan portfolio; (2) mortgage, home equity lines of credit ("HELOC"), and installment loans included in the residential real estate segment of the loan portfolio; and (3) all loans included in the consumer segment of the loan portfolio. The amount of loan loss reserve assigned to these loans is based on historical loss experience over the past 132 months, through December 31, 2020. Management generally considers a one-year coverage period (the “Historical Loss Factor”) appropriate because the probable loss on any given loan in the consumer loan pool should ordinarily become apparent in that time frame. However, management may incorporate adjustments to the Historical Loss Factor as circumstances warrant additional reserves (e.g., increased loan delinquencies, improving or deteriorating economic conditions, changes in lending management and changes in underwriting standards). The loss factor applied to Park’s consumer loan portfolio as of December 31, 2020 was based on the historical loss experience over the preceding 132 months, plus an additional judgmental reserve, increasing the total allowance for loan loss coverage in the consumer loan portfolio to 2.63 times the 132-month historical loss factor of 0.28% compared to 1.90 times the 120-month historical loss factor of 0.31% at December 31, 2019.
For the consumer portfolio, a specific COVID-19 factor was added to each segment equal to 75% of the 132-month historical loss factor (representing 9 months of charge-off delay). This increase considers the payment deferrals being provided to consumer loan customers and unprecedented level of government stimulus as well as the likely delays in delinquencies and charge-offs as a result.
Much is still unknown about the economic impact of COVID-19, including the duration of the pandemic, future government programs that may be established as a result of the pandemic, and the resiliency of the U.S. economy. Management will continue to evaluate this estimate of incurred losses as new information becomes available. Given uncertainty about the magnitude and length of the COVID-19 pandemic and related economic shutdown, additional loan loss provisions may be required that would adversely impact earnings in future periods.
Purchased Loans
Loans acquired as part of the acquisitions of NewDominion and Carolina Alliance were recorded at fair value on the respective dates of acquisition. An allowance is only established on these loans as a result of credit deterioration post acquisition. At December 31, 2020, there was a $678,000 allowance related to performing acquired loans. At December 31, 2020, a reserve of $167,000 had been established related to PCI loans. At December 31, 2019, there was no allowance related to performing acquired loans, and a reserve of $268,000 related to PCI loans.
Current Expected Credit Losses: In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13 - Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments ("ASU 2016-13"). The new accounting guidance in FASB ASU 2016-13 replaces the incurred loss methodology with an expected loss methodolgy, which is referred to as the CECL methodology. The CECL methodology is applicable to the measurement of credit losses on financial assets measured at amortized cost, including loan receivables, HTM debt securities, and reinsurance receivables. It also applies to off-balance sheet credit exposures not accounted for as insurance (loan commitments, standby letters of credit, financial guarantees, and other similar instruments) and net investments in leases recognized by a lessor. The CECL methodology requires an entity to estimate credit losses over the life of an asset or off-balance sheet credit exposure. The new accounting guidance was to have been effective for Park for annual reporting periods and interim reporting periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2019.
Section 4014 of the CARES Act provided financial institutions with optional temporary relief from having to comply with ASU 2016-13 including the CECL methodology for estimating the allowance for credit losses. This temporary relief was set to expire on the earlier of the date on which the national emergency concerning COVID-19 terminated or December 31, 2020, with adoption being effective retrospectively as of January 1, 2020.
Section 540 of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, amended Section 4014 of the CARES Act by extending the relief period provided in the CARES Act. The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, modifies the CARES Act so that temporary relief will expire on the earlier of the first day of the fiscal year that begins after the date on which the national emergency concerning COVID-19 terminates or January 1, 2022.
Park elected to delay the implementation of CECL following the approval of the CARES Act. The CECL standard requires financial institutions to calculate an allowance utilizing a reasonable and supportable forecast period which Park has established as a one-year period. In the unprecedented circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic and the response thereto, Park believes that adopting the CECL methodology in the first quarter of 2020 would have added an unnecessary level of subjectivity and volatility to the calculation of the allowance for credit losses. With the approval of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, management has elected to further delay adoption of CECL to January 1, 2021. This will allow Park to utilize the CECL standard for the entire year of adoption.
Park formed a cross-functional CECL Committee and engaged a third party vendor to assist with the adoption of ASU 2016-13. The Company currently intends to use a blend of multiple economic forecasts to estimate expected credit losses over a one year reasonable and supportable forecast period and then revert, over a one year period to longer term historical loss experience to arrive at lifetime expected losses. Based on preliminary modeling results, management estimates that the reserve will increase to between $90 million and $100 million upon adoption, with the day 1 increase being recorded through a one-time cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings as of January 1, 2021. The actual impact from adopting this guidance may be subject to change based upon refinement and finalization of the model and associated assumptions, the refinement and finalization of qualitative factors, the implementation and testing of certain internal controls ensuring model effectiveness and management's judgment.
Park expects the Allowance for Credit Losses for unfunded commitments to increase to between $3.5 million and $4.5 million upon adoption of ASU 2016-13, with the day 1 increase being recorded through a one-time cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings as of January 1, 2021.
While it is expected that the adoption of ASU 2016-13 will increase the allowance for credit losses, many factors will determine the ultimate calculation at January 1, 2021. The adoption of ASU 2016-13 will not, however, change the overall credit risk in the Company's loan, lease and investment securities portfolios or the ultimate losses with respect thereto. The transition adjustment to increase the allowance will primarily result in a decrease to shareholders' equity, net of income taxes. The ultimate impact of the adoption of ASU 2016-13 will depend on the composition of the loan, lease and investment securities portfolios, finalization of credit loss models, and macroeconomic conditions and forecasts that exist at the date of adoption.
CAPITAL RESOURCES
Liquidity and Interest Rate Sensitivity Management: Park’s objective in managing its liquidity is to maintain the ability to continuously meet the cash flow needs of customers, such as borrowings or deposit withdrawals, while at the same time seeking higher yields from longer-term lending and investing activities.
Cash and cash equivalents increased by $210.5 million during 2020 to $370.5 million at year end. Cash provided by operating activities was $111.6 million in 2020, $111.6 million in 2019 and $132.0 million in 2018. Net income was the primary source of cash provided by operating activities during each year.
Cash used in investing activities was $455.9 million in 2020, while cash provided by investing activities was $60.1 million in 2019 and $45.4 million in 2018. Investment securities transactions and loan originations/repayments are the major uses or sources of cash in investing activities. Proceeds from the sale, repayment or maturity of investment securities provide cash and purchases of investment securities use cash. Net investment securities transactions provided cash of $188.1 million in 2020, $302.2 million in 2019 and $77.8 million in 2018. Cash used by the net increase in the loan portfolio was $620.2 million in 2020, $216.4 million in 2019 and $57.3 million in 2018.
Cash provided by financing activities was $554.8 million in 2020, while cash used in financing activities was $179.0 million in 2019 and $179.3 million in 2018. A major source of cash provided by or used in financing activities is the net change in deposits. Deposits increased and provided $520.0 million of cash in 2020, $159.7 million of cash in 2019 and $159.6 million of cash in 2018. Other major sources of cash from financing activities are short-term borrowings and long-term debt. In 2020, net short-term borrowings increased and provided $111.6 million in cash and net long-term debt increased and provided $2.1 million in cash. In 2019, net short-term borrowings decreased and used $20.1 million in cash and net long-term debt decreased and used $208.1 million in cash. In 2018, net short-term borrowings decreased and used $169.3 million in cash and net long-term debt decreased and used $100.2 million in cash. Cash used in the repurchase of common shares was $7.5 million in 2020, $40.5 million in 2019 and $5.8 million in 2018. Finally, cash declined by $70.4 million in 2020, $69.1 million in 2019 and $63.0 million in 2018, from the payment of cash dividends.
Funds are available from a number of sources, including the capital markets, the investment securities portfolio, the core deposit base, FHLB borrowings, the capability to securitize or package loans for sale, and a $15.0 million revolving line of credit with another financial institution, which did not have an outstanding balance as of December 31, 2020. In the opinion of Park's management, the present funding sources provide more than adequate liquidity for Park to meet our cash flow needs.
The following table shows interest rate sensitivity data for five different time intervals as of December 31, 2020:
(1)Investment securities and loans that are subject to prepayment are shown in the table by the earlier of their re-pricing date or their expected repayment date and not by their contractual maturity date. Nonaccrual loans of $117.4 million are included within the three-month to twelve-month maturity category.
(2)Management considers interest bearing transaction accounts and savings accounts to be core deposits and, therefore, not as rate sensitive as other deposit accounts and borrowed money. Accordingly, only 29% of interest bearing transaction accounts and 47% of savings accounts are considered to re-price within one year. If all of the interest bearing transaction accounts and savings accounts were considered to re-price within one year, the one-year cumulative gap would change from a positive 15.29% to a negative 12.51%.
The interest rate sensitivity gap analysis provides an overall picture of Park’s static interest rate risk position. At December 31, 2020, the cumulative interest earning assets maturing or repricing within twelve months were $3,873 million compared to the cumulative interest bearing liabilities maturing or repricing within twelve months of $2,579 million. For the twelve-month cumulative interest rate sensitivity gap position, rate sensitive assets exceeded rate sensitive liabilities by $1,294 million or 15.29% of interest earning assets.
A positive twelve-month cumulative rate sensitivity gap (assets exceed liabilities) would suggest that Park’s net interest margin would increase if interest rates were to increase. Conversely, a negative twelve-month cumulative rate sensitivity gap would suggest that Park’s net interest margin would decrease if interest rates were to increase. However, the usefulness of the interest rate sensitivity gap analysis as a forecasting tool in projecting net interest income is limited. The gap analysis does not consider the magnitude, timing or frequency by which assets or liabilities will reprice during a period and also contains assumptions as to the repricing of transaction and savings accounts that may not prove to be correct.
The cumulative twelve-month interest rate sensitivity gap position at year-end 2019 was a positive $303 million or 3.89% of total interest earning assets. The percentage of interest earning assets maturing or repricing within one year was 45.7% at year-end 2020, compared to 43.2% at year-end 2019. The percentage of interest bearing liabilities maturing or repricing within one year was 47.7% at year-end 2020, compared to 55.3% at year-end 2019.
Management supplements the interest rate sensitivity gap analysis with periodic simulations of balance sheet sensitivity under various interest rate and what-if scenarios to better forecast and manage the net interest margin. Park’s management uses an earnings simulation model to analyze net interest income sensitivity to movements in interest rates. This model is based on actual cash flows and repricing characteristics for balance sheet instruments and incorporates market-based assumptions regarding the impact of changing interest rates on the prepayment rate of certain assets and liabilities. This model also includes management’s projections for activity levels of various balance sheet instruments and non-interest fee income and operating expense. Assumptions based on the historical behavior of deposit rates and balances in relation to changes in interest rates are also incorporated into this earnings simulation model. These assumptions are inherently uncertain and, as a result, the model cannot precisely measure net interest income and net income. Actual results will differ from simulated results due to the timing, magnitude and frequency of interest rate changes as well as changes in market conditions and management strategies.
Management uses a 50 basis point change in market interest rates per quarter for a total of 200 basis points per year in evaluating the impact of changing interest rates on net interest income and net income over a twelve-month horizon. At December 31, 2020, the earnings simulation model projected that net income would decrease by 2.9% using a rising interest rate scenario and decrease by 8.8% using a declining interest rate scenario over the next year. At December 31, 2019, the earnings simulation model projected that net income would decrease by 1.9% using a rising interest rate scenario and increase by 0.5% using a declining interest rate scenario over the next year. At December 31, 2018, the earnings simulation model projected that net income would decrease by 0.4% using a rising interest rate scenario and decrease by 3.1% using a declining interest rate scenario over the next year. Consistently, over the past several years, Park’s earnings simulation model has projected that changes in interest rates would have only a small impact on net income and the net interest margin. Park’s net interest margin was 3.93% in 2020, 3.89% in 2019 and 3.84% in 2018.
CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS
In the ordinary course of operations, Park enters into certain contractual obligations. The following table summarizes Park’s significant and determinable obligations by payment date at December 31, 2020.
Further discussion of the nature of each specified obligation is included in the referenced Note to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in "ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
(1) Amounts do not include associated interest payments.
(2) Pension payments reflect 10 years of payments, through 2030.
As of December 31, 2020, Park had $29.3 million in unfunded commitments related to investments in qualified affordable housing projects which are not included in "Table 41 - Contractual Obligations" above. Commitments are funded when capital calls are made by the general partner. Park expects that the current commitments will be funded between 2021 and 2031.
As of December 31, 2020, Park had $6.2 million in unfunded commitments related to certain equity investments which are not included in "Table 41 - Contractual Obligations" above. Commitments are funded when capital calls are made by the general partner.
The Corporation’s operating lease obligations represent short-term and long-term lease and rental payments for facilities and equipment. Purchase obligations represent obligations under agreements to purchase goods or services that are enforceable and legally binding on the Corporation.
Commitments, Contingent Liabilities, and Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements: In order to meet the financing needs of our customers, the Corporation issues loan commitments and standby letters of credit. At December 31, 2020, the Corporation had $1,372.2 million of loan commitments for commercial, commercial real estate, and residential real estate loans and had $17.0 million of standby letters of credit. At December 31, 2019, the Corporation had $1,309.9 million of loan commitments for commercial, commercial real estate, and residential real estate loans and had $17.2 million of standby letters of credit.
Commitments to extend credit under loan commitments and standby letters of credit do not necessarily represent future cash requirements. These commitments often expire without being drawn upon. However, all of the loan commitments and standby letters of credit were permitted to be drawn upon in 2020. See "Note 25 - Financial Instruments with Off-Balance Sheet Risk and Financial Instruments with Concentration of Credit Risk" of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in "ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA" in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, for additional information on loan commitments and standby letters of credit.
The Corporation did not have any unrecorded significant contingent liabilities at December 31, 2020.
Capital: Park’s primary means of maintaining capital adequacy is through retained earnings. At December 31, 2020, the Corporation’s total shareholders’ equity was $1,040.3 million, compared to $969.0 million at December 31, 2019. Total shareholders’ equity at December 31, 2020 was 11.21% of total assets, compared to 11.32% of total assets at December 31, 2019.
Tangible shareholders’ equity was $871.4 million [total shareholders' equity ($1,040.3 million) less goodwill ($159.6 million) and other intangible assets ($9.3 million)] at December 31, 2020, and was $797.9 million [total shareholders’ equity ($969.0 million) less goodwill ($159.6 million) and other intangible assets ($11.5 million)] at December 31, 2019. At December 31, 2020, tangible shareholders' equity was 9.57% of total tangible assets [total assets ($9,279 million) less goodwill ($159.6 million) and other intangible assets ($9.3 million)], compared to 9.51% of total tangible assets [total assets ($8,558 million) less goodwill ($159.6 million) and other intangible assets ($11.5 million)] at December 31, 2019.
Net income was $127.9 million in 2020, $102.7 million in 2019 and $110.4 million in 2018.
Cash dividends declared for Park's common shares were $70.6 million in 2020, $69.5 million in 2019 and $63.6 million in 2018. On a per share basis, the cash dividends declared were $4.28 per share in 2020, $4.24 per share in 2019 and $4.07 per share in 2018.
The table below shows the repurchases and issuances of common shares and treasury shares for 2018 through 2020.
Park issued 1,037,205 and 435,457 new common shares, which had not already been held as treasury shares, during 2019 and 2018 in the acquisitions of CABF and NewDominion, respectively, but did not issue any new common shares, which had not already been held as treasury shares, in 2020. Common shares had a balance of $460.7 million, $459.4 million and $358.6 million at December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, respectively.
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (net) reflected income of $5.6 million at December 31, 2020, compared to a loss of $9.6 million at December 31, 2019, and a loss of $49.8 million at December 31, 2018. During the 2020 year, the change in net unrealized holding gain (loss) on AFS debt securities, net of income tax, was a gain of $23.2 million. During the 2019 year, the change in net unrealized holding gain (loss) on AFS debt securities, net of income tax, was a gain of $37.7 million. During the 2018 year, the change in net unrealized holding gain (loss) on AFS debt securities, net of income tax, was a loss of $15.6 million. Additionally, Park recognized an other comprehensive loss of $7.7 million, net of income tax, related to the change in pension plan assets and benefit obligations in 2020, compared to an other comprehensive gain of $3.0 million, net of income tax, related to the change in pension plan assets and benefit obligations in 2019, and compared to an other comprehensive loss of $3.0 million, net of income tax, related to the change in pension plan assets and benefit obligations in 2018. Finally, during the 2020 year, Park recognized an other comprehensive loss of $244,000, net of income tax, related to an unrealized net holding loss on cash flow hedging derivatives, compared to an other comprehensive loss of $454,000, net of income tax, related to an unrealized net holding loss on cash flow hedging derivatives in 2019. Beginning accumulated other comprehensive loss (net) as of January 1, 2018, included a $995,000 adjustment related to the adoption of ASU 2016-01- Financial Instruments - Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.
Financial institution regulators have established guidelines for minimum capital ratios for banks, thrifts and bank holding companies. Park has elected not to include the net unrealized gain or loss on AFS debt securities in computing regulatory capital. During the first quarter of 2015, Park adopted the Basel III regulatory capital framework as approved by the federal banking agencies. The adoption of this framework modified the calculation of the various capital ratios, added an additional ratio, common equity tier 1, and revised the adequately and well-capitalized thresholds under the prompt corrective action regulations applicable to PNB. Additionally, under this framework, in order to avoid limitations on capital distributions, including dividend payments and stock repurchases, Park must hold a capital conservation buffer of 2.50% above the adequately capitalized risk-based capital ratios. The Federal Reserve Board also adopted requirements Park must maintain to be deemed "well-capitalized" and to remain a financial holding company.
Park and PNB met each of the well-capitalized ratio guidelines applicable to them at December 31, 2020. The following table indicates the capital ratios for PNB and Park at December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019.
Effects of Inflation: Balance sheets of financial institutions typically contain assets and liabilities that are monetary in nature and, therefore, differ greatly from most commercial and industrial companies which have significant investments in premises, equipment and inventory. During periods of inflation, financial institutions that are in a net positive monetary position will experience a decline in purchasing power, which does have an impact on growth. Another significant effect on internal equity growth is other expenses, which tend to rise during periods of inflation.
Management believes the most significant impact on financial results is the Corporation's ability to align our asset/liability management program to react to changes in interest rates.
ITEM 7A.
ITEM 7A.QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK.
As noted in "Table 22 - Distribution of Assets, Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity" included in "ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, Park’s tax equivalent net interest margin increased by four basis points in 2020 and increased five basis points in 2019. Consistently, over the last several years, Park’s earnings simulation model has projected that changes in interest rates would have only a small impact on net income and the tax equivalent net interest margin. The tax equivalent net interest margin was 3.93%, 3.89% and 3.84% for each of the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively. The discussion of interest rate sensitivity included in "ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K is incorporated herein by reference. In addition, the discussion of Park’s commitments, contingent liabilities and off-balance sheet arrangements included in "ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and in "Note 25 - Financial Instruments with Off-Balance Sheet Risk and Financial Instruments with Concentrations of Credit Risk" of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in "ITEM 8.
ITEM 8.FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA.
Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders
Park National Corporation
The management of Park National Corporation (the “Corporation”) is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, for the Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries. The Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (U.S. GAAP"). The Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that:
a.pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries;
b.provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, and that receipts and expenditures of the Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the Corporation; and
c.provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the assets of the Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
The Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting as it relates to the consolidated financial statements is evaluated for effectiveness by management and tested for reliability through a program of internal audits. Actions are taken to correct potential deficiencies as they are identified.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluations of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. Accordingly, even an effective system of internal control over financial reporting will provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation.
With the participation of our Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, Secretary, and Treasurer, management evaluated the effectiveness of the Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2020, the end of the Corporation’s fiscal year. In making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth for effective internal control over financial reporting by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission's (COSO) Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013).
Based on our assessment under the criteria described in the immediately preceding paragraph, management concluded that the
Corporation maintained effective internal control over financial reporting at a reasonable assurance level as of December 31, 2020. We reviewed the results of management's assessment with the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors of the Corporation.
The Corporation’s independent registered public accounting firm, Crowe LLP, has audited the Consolidated Balance Sheets of the Corporation and its subsidiaries as of December 31, 2020 and 2019 and the related Consolidated Statements of Income, Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity and Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2020, included in "ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and the Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2020, and has issued their Report of Independent
Registered Public Accounting Firm, which appears in "ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
/s/ David L. Trautman/s/ Brady T. Burt
David L. TrautmanBrady T. Burt
Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive OfficerChief Financial Officer, Secretary and Treasurer
February 26, 2021
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Shareholders and the Board of Directors of Park National Corporation
Newark, Ohio
Opinions on the Financial Statements and Internal Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Park National Corporation (the "Company") as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2020, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the "financial statements"). We also have audited the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2020, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework: (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2020 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2020, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework: (2013) issued by COSO.
Basis for Opinions
The Company’s management is responsible for these financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements and an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) ("PCAOB") and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud, and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.
Our audits of the financial statements included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.
Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
Critical Audit Matter
The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current period audit of the consolidated financial statements that was communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that: (1) relates to accounts or disclosures that are material to the consolidated financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of the critical audit matter does not alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matter below, providing a separate opinion on the critical audit matter or on the accounts or disclosures to which it relates.
Allowance for Loan Losses - Other Environmental Loss Factors
As described in Notes 1 and 7 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company’s allowance for loan losses is a valuation account that reflects the Company’s estimation of probable incurred credit losses in its loan portfolio. The allowance for loan losses was $85,675,000 at December 31, 2020, which consists of three components: the valuation allowance for loans individually evaluated for impairment (“specific reserves”), representing $5,434,000, the valuation allowance for loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality, representing $167,000, and the valuation allowance for loans collectively evaluated for impairment (“general reserves”), representing $80,074,000. The general reserves are based on the Company’s historical loss experience adjusted for other factors including environmental loss factors. The determination of the allowance for loan losses requires significant estimates and subjective assumptions which require a high degree of judgment relating to how those assumptions impact probable incurred credit losses within the loan portfolio. Changes in these assumptions could have a material effect on the Company’s financial results.
As described in Note 7 to the consolidated financial statements, historical loss experience on commercial loans is adjusted primarily for a loss emergence period factor, a loss migration factor and environmental loss factors. During 2020, the Company added additional reserves for three industries that demonstrated higher risk as a result of the pandemic as well as reserves to hotel and accommodations loans to account for increased valuation risk. Certain environmental loss factors were determined to correlate with higher charge-offs in the commercial loan portfolio. Environmental factors applicable to the commercial loan portfolio included: the Ohio unemployment rate; the percentage change in Ohio GDP; the consumer confidence index; the prevalence of fixed rate loans in the portfolio and other environmental factors. In evaluating the ongoing relevance and amount of the other environmental factors, management considers: changes in lending policies and procedures, including changes in underwriting standards and collection, charge-off, and recovery practices; changes in national and local economic and business conditions and developments that affect the collectability of the portfolio; and the effect of other external factors such as competition and legal and regulatory requirements on the level of estimated losses in the institution’s existing portfolio. All of these factors are evaluated in relation to the historical look back period.
To formulate the additional allocations to the allowance for loan losses for environmental loss factors, management multiplies the outstanding principal balance of the various commercial loan classes by the applicable factor. Management’s identification and analysis of these issues requires significant judgment. We determined that auditing management’s estimate of the allowance allocation resulting from the environmental factors is a critical audit matter as it involved especially subjective auditor judgment.
The primary procedures we performed to address this critical audit matter included:
•Testing the effectiveness of controls over the estimation of the allowance for loan losses, including controls addressing management’s review of the conclusions related to the environmental loss factors and the resulting allocation of the allowance, as well as controls over the mathematical application of the environmental loss factors to adjust the historical loss experience.
•Substantive testing of management’s process for developing the environmental loss factors, which included:
◦Evaluation of the reasonableness of management’s judgments and assumptions related to the assessment of the data used in the determination of environmental loss factors and the resulting allocation of the allowance. Among other procedures, our evaluation considered the weight of evidence from internal and external sources and whether such assumptions were applied consistently period over period.
◦Analytically evaluating the environmental loss factor allocation for consistency with overall trends in the loan portfolio and environmental conditions.
◦Testing the accuracy of the mathematical application of the environmental factors to adjust the historical loss experience.
◦Testing the total amount of the environmental factor allocation assigned within the allowance for loan loss balance.
Crowe LLP
We have served as the Company's auditor since 2006.
Columbus, Ohio
February 26, 2021
Park National Corporation and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Balance Sheet
at December 31, 2020 and 2019
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
Park National Corporation and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Balance Sheets
at December 31, 2020 and 2019
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
Park National Corporation and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Income
for years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
Park National Corporation and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Income
for years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
PARK NATIONAL CORPORATION
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
for years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
Park National Corporation and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity
for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
Park National Corporation and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements:
Principles of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Park National Corporation and its subsidiaries (“Park”, the “Company” or the “Corporation”), unless the context otherwise requires. Material intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("U.S. GAAP") requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant, unprecedented disruption around the world that has affected daily living and negatively impacted the global economy. The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic may meaningfully impact significant estimates such as the allowance for loan losses, goodwill, mortgage servicing rights, and pension plan obligations and related expenses. Additionally, the pandemic may particularly impact certain loan concentrations in the hotel and accommodations, restaurant and food service, and strip shopping center industries.
Reclassifications
Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform with the current presentation. These reclassifications had no impact on net income or shareholders' equity.
Restrictions on Cash and Due from Banks
The Corporation’s national bank subsidiary, The Park National Bank ("PNB"), previously was required to maintain average reserve balances with the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland. The Federal Reserve Board announced on March 15, 2020 that the Board reduced reserve requirement ratios to zero percent effective March 26, 2020. This action eliminated reserve requirements for all depository institutions. The average required reserve balance was approximately $89.2 million at December 31, 2019. No other compensating balance arrangements were in existence at December 31, 2020.
Investment Securities
Debt securities are classified upon acquisition into one of three categories: HTM, AFS, or trading (see Note 5 - Investment Securities).
HTM securities are those debt securities that the Corporation has the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity and are recorded at amortized cost. AFS securities are those debt securities that would be available to be sold in the future in response to the Corporation’s liquidity needs, changes in market interest rates, and asset-liability management strategies, among other reasons. AFS securities are reported at fair value, with unrealized holding gains and losses excluded from earnings but included in other comprehensive income (loss), net of applicable income taxes. The Corporation did not hold any trading securities during any period presented. Equity securities, included within "Other investment securities" on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, are carried at fair value, with changes in fair value reported in net income. Equity securities without readily determinable fair values are carried at cost, minus impairment, if any, plus or minus changes resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for the identical or a similar investment.
Debt securities are evaluated quarterly for potential other-than-temporary impairment. Management considers the facts related to each security including the nature of the security, the amount and duration of the loss, the credit quality of the issuer, the expectations for that security’s performance and whether Park intends to sell, or it is more likely than not that Park will be required to sell, a security in an unrealized loss position before recovery of its amortized cost basis. Declines in the value of debt securities that are considered to be other-than-temporary are separated into (1) the amount of the total impairment related to credit loss and (2) the amount of the total impairment related to all other factors. The amount of the total other-than-temporary impairment related to the credit loss is recognized in earnings. The amount of the total other-than-temporary impairment related to all other factors is recognized in other comprehensive income (loss), net of income tax. The credit loss is defined as the difference between the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected and the amortized cost basis.
Interest income from investment securities includes amortization of purchase premium or discount. Premiums and discounts on investment securities are amortized on the level-yield method without anticipating prepayments, except for mortgage-backed securities where prepayments are anticipated.
Gains and losses realized on the sale of investment securities are recorded on the trade date and determined using the specific identification method.
Federal Home Loan Bank and Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland Stock
PNB is a member of the FHLB and the FRB. Members are required to own a certain amount of stock based on their level of borrowings and other factors and may invest in additional amounts. FHLB stock and FRB stock are classified as restricted securities and are carried at their redemption value within "Other investment securities" on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Impairment is evaluated based on the ultimate recovery of par value. Both cash and stock dividends are reported as income.
Bank Owned Life Insurance
Park has purchased insurance policies on the lives of directors and certain key officers. Bank owned life insurance is recorded at its cash surrender value (or the amount that can be realized).
Loans Held for Sale
Park has elected the fair value option for mortgage loans held for sale, which are carried at their fair value as of each balance sheet date.
Mortgage Banking Derivatives
Commitments to fund mortgage loans (interest rate locks) to be sold into the secondary market and forward commitments for the future delivery of these mortgage loans are accounted for as free standing derivatives. The fair value of the interest rate lock is recorded at the time the commitment to fund the mortgage loan is executed and is adjusted for the expected exercise of the commitment before the loan is funded. In order to hedge the change in interest rates resulting from its commitments to fund the loans, the Company enters into forward commitments for the future delivery of mortgage loans when interest rate locks are entered into. Fair value of these mortgage derivatives is estimated based on the change in mortgage interest rates from the date the interest on the loan is locked. The fair value of these derivatives is included in "Loans" in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Changes in the fair values of these derivatives are included in "Other service income" in the Consolidated Statements of Income.
Loans
Loans that management has the intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future or until maturity or payoff, are reported at their outstanding principal balances adjusted for any charge-offs, any nonaccrual interest payments applied to principal, any deferred fees or costs on originated loans, and any unamortized premiums or discounts on purchased loans. Interest income is accrued on the unpaid principal balance. Late charges on loans are recognized as income when they are collected. Net loan origination fees and costs are deferred and recognized in interest income using the level-yield method without anticipating prepayments.
Commercial loans include: (1) commercial, financial and agricultural loans; (2) commercial real estate loans; (3) those commercial loans in the construction real estate loan segment; (4) those commercial loans in the residential real estate loan segment; and (5) leases. Consumer loans include: (1) mortgage and installment loans included in the construction real estate segment; (2) mortgage, home equity lines of credit ("HELOCs"), and installment loans included in the residential real estate segment; and (3) all loans included in the consumer segment.
Generally, commercial loans are placed on nonaccrual status at 90 days past due and consumer and residential mortgage loans are placed on nonaccrual status at 120 days past due. The delinquency status of a loan is based on contractual terms and not on how recently payments have been received. Commercial loans placed on nonaccrual status are considered impaired (see Note 6 - Loans). Park’s charge-off policy for commercial loans requires management to establish a specific reserve or record a charge-off when collection is in doubt or it is probable a loss has been incurred and there is, or likely will be, a collateral shortfall related to the estimated value of the collateral securing the loan. The Company’s charge-off policy for consumer loans is dependent on the class of the loan. Residential mortgage loans, HELOCs, and consumer loans secured by residential real estate are typically charged down to the value of the collateral, less estimated selling costs, at 180 days past due. The charge-off policy for other consumer loans, primarily installment loans, requires a monthly review of delinquent loans and a complete charge-off for any account that reaches 120 days past due.
For loans which are on nonaccrual status, it is Park’s policy to reverse interest previously accrued on the loans against interest income. Interest on such loans may be recorded on a cash basis and be included in earnings only when Park expects to receive
the entire recorded investment of the loan. Loans are returned to accrual status when all the principal and interest amounts contractually due are brought current and future payments are reasonably assured.
A description of each segment of the loan portfolio, along with the risk characteristics of each segment, is included below:
Commercial, financial and agricultural: Commercial, financial and agricultural ("C&I") loans are made for a wide variety of general corporate purposes, including financing for commercial and industrial properties, financing for equipment, inventory and accounts receivable, acquisition financing, commercial leasing, and to consumer finance companies. The term of each commercial loan varies by its purpose. Repayment terms are structured such that commercial loans will be repaid within the economic useful life of the underlying asset. Risk of loss on C&I loans largely depends upon general economic cycles, as they may adversely impact certain industries, competency of the borrower's management team, the quality of the underlying assets supporting the loans including accounts receivable, inventory, and equipment, and the accuracy of the borrower's financial reporting. Such risks are mitigated by generally requiring the borrower's owners to guaranty the loans.
Commercial real estate: Commercial real estate (“CRE”) loans include mortgage loans to developers and owners of commercial real estate. The lending policy for CRE loans is designed to address the unique risk attributes of CRE lending. The collateral for these CRE loans is the underlying commercial real estate. Risk of loss on CRE loans largely depends upon the cash flow of the properties which is influenced by the amount of vacancy experienced by the underlying real estate, the credit capacity of the tenants occupying the underlying real estate, and general economic trends as they may adversely impact the value of the property. These risks are mitigated by generally requiring personal guaranties of the owners of the properties and by requiring appraisals pursuant to government regulations.
Construction real estate: The Company defines construction loans as both commercial construction loans and residential construction loans where the loan proceeds are used exclusively for the improvement of real estate as to which the Company holds a mortgage. Construction loans may be in the form of a permanent loan or a short-term construction loan, depending on the needs of the individual borrower. Construction financing is generally considered to involve a higher degree of risk of loss than long-term financing on improved, occupied real estate. Risk of loss on a construction loan depends largely upon the accuracy of the initial estimate of the property’s value at completion of construction and the estimated cost (including interest) of construction. If the estimate of construction cost proves to be inaccurate, Park may be required to advance funds beyond the amount originally committed to permit completion of the project. If the estimate of value proves inaccurate, Park may be confronted, at or prior to the maturity of the loan, with a project having a value insufficient to assure full repayment, should the borrower default. In the event that a default on a construction loan occurs and foreclosure follows, Park must take control of the project and attempt to either arrange for completion of construction or dispose of the unfinished project. Additional risk exists with respect to loans made to developers who do not have a buyer for the property, as the developer may lack funds to pay the loan if the property is not sold upon completion. Park attempts to reduce such risks on loans to developers by generally requiring personal guarantees and reviewing current personal financial statements and tax returns as well as other projects undertaken by the developer.
Residential real estate: The Company defines residential real estate loans as first mortgages on individuals’ primary residences or second mortgages of individuals’ primary residences in the form of HELOCs or installment loans. Credit approval for residential real estate loans requires demonstration of sufficient income to repay the principal and interest and the real estate taxes and insurance, stability of employment, an established credit record and a current independent third-party appraisal providing the market value of the real estate securing the loan. Residential real estate loans typically have longer terms and higher balances with lower yields as compared to consumer loans, but generally carry lower risks of default. The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act requires creditors to make a reasonable and good faith determination of a consumer's ability to repay any consumer credit transaction secured by a dwelling. Documentation and verification of income within defined time frames and not-to-exceed limits are bases for affirming ability to repay. Risk of loss largely depends upon factors affecting the borrower's ability to repay as well as the general economic trends as they may adversely impact the value of the property. These risks are mitigated by completing a comprehensive underwriting of the borrower and by requiring appraisals pursuant to government regulations.
Consumer: The Company originates direct and indirect consumer loans, primarily automobile loans, to customers in its primary market areas. Credit approval for consumer loans requires income sufficient to repay principal and interest due, stability of employment, an established credit record and sufficient collateral for secured loans. Consumer loans typically have shorter terms and lower balances with higher yields as compared to real estate mortgage loans, but generally carry higher risks of default. Consumer loan collections are dependent on the borrower’s financial stability, and thus are more likely to be affected by adverse personal circumstances.
Leases: The Company originates financing leases primarily for the purchase of commercial vehicles, operating/manufacturing equipment, and municipal vehicles/equipment. Repayment terms are structured such that the lease will be repaid within the economic useful life of the leased asset. Risk of losses on financing leases largely depends upon general economic cycles, as they may adversely impact certain industries, competency of the borrower’s management team, the quality and residual value of the leased asset, and the accuracy of the borrower’s financial reporting. These risks are mitigated by underwriting leases considering primary and secondary sources of repayment and requiring guaranteed residual values.
Concentration of Credit Risk
Park's commercial loan portfolio includes loans to a wide variety of corporations and businesses across many industrial classifications in the 26 Ohio counties, three North Carolina counties, four South Carolina counties and one Kentucky county where PNB operates, with the exception of nationwide aircraft loans and nationwide asset-based lending to consumer finance companies. The primary industries represented by these customers include real estate rental and leasing, finance and insurance, construction, agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting, manufacturing, retail trade, health care, accommodation and food services and other services.
Purchased Credit Impaired Loans
The Company has purchased loans, some of which have shown evidence of credit deterioration since origination. These PCI loans are recorded at fair value at inception, such that there is no carryover of the sellers' allowance for loan losses. After acquisition, losses are recognized by an increase in the allowance for loan losses.
PCI loans are accounted for individually or aggregated into pools of loans based on common characteristics. The Company estimates the amount and timing of expected cash flows for each loan or pool and the expected cash flows in excess of the amount paid is recorded as interest income over the remaining life of the loan (accretable yield). The excess of the loan’s or pool's contractual principal and interest over expected cash flows is not recorded (nonaccretable difference).
Over the life of the loan or pool, expected cash flows continue to be estimated. If the present value of expected cash flows is less than the carrying amount, a loss is recorded as a provision for loan losses. If the present value of expected cash flows is greater than the carrying amount, it is recognized as part of future interest income.
Allowance for Loan Losses
The allowance for loan losses is that amount believed adequate to absorb probable incurred credit losses in the loan portfolio based on management’s evaluation of various factors. The determination of the allowance requires significant estimates, including the timing and amounts of expected cash flows on impaired loans, consideration of current economic conditions, and historical loss experience pertaining to pools of homogeneous loans, all of which may be susceptible to change. The allowance is increased through a provision for loan losses that is charged to earnings based on management’s quarterly evaluation of the factors previously mentioned and is reduced by charge-offs, net of recoveries.
The allowance for loan losses includes both (1) an estimate of loss based on historical loss experience within both commercial and consumer loan categories with similar characteristics (“statistical allocation”) and (2) an estimate of loss based on an impairment analysis of each commercial loan that is considered to be impaired (“specific allocation”). Included in the statistical allocation is a reserve for TDRs within the consumer loan portfolio. Management performs a periodic evaluation to ensure the reserve calculated utilizing the statistical allocation is consistent with a reserve calculated under Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 310-10 - Receivables.
In calculating the allowance for loan losses, management believes it is appropriate to consider historical loss rates that are comparable to the current period being analyzed, giving consideration to losses experienced over a full cycle. As such, a year is added to the look back period each time historical losses are updated, until the economic cycle is complete, as defined by a period of rising charge-offs, considering both internal and industry trends. In updating the historical loss rates to incorporate 2020 losses, management considered if the economic deterioration as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic represented the end of a cycle for the purposes of the allowance for loan loss calculation, but, due to the historically low level of charge-offs, determined 2020 should be included in the cycle beginning in 2010. For the historical loss factor at December 31, 2020, the Company utilized an annual loss rate (“historical loss experience”), calculated based on an average of the net charge-offs and the annual change in specific reserves for impaired commercial loans, experienced during 2010 through 2020 within the individual segments of the commercial and consumer loan categories.
U.S. GAAP requires a specific allocation to be established as a component of the allowance for loan losses for certain loans when it is probable that all amounts due pursuant to the contractual terms of the loans will not be collected, and the recorded investment in the loans exceeds their measure of impairment. Management considers the following related to commercial loans when determining if a loan should be considered impaired: (1) current debt service coverage levels of the borrowing entity; (2)
payment history over the most recent 12-month period; (3) other signs of deterioration in the borrower’s financial situation, such as changes in credit scores; and (4) global cash flows of financially sound guarantors that have previously supported loan payments. The recorded investment is the balance of the loan, plus accrued interest receivable. Impairment is measured using either the present value of expected future cash flows based upon the initial effective interest rate on the loan, or the fair value of the collateral. If a loan is considered to be collateral dependent, the fair value of collateral, less estimated selling costs, is used to measure impairment.
Loans acquired as part of the acquisition of NewDominion Bank were recorded at fair value on the date of acquisition, July 1, 2018. Loans acquired as part of the acquisition of Carolina Alliance Bank were recorded at fair value on the date of acquisition, April 1, 2019. An allowance is only established on acquired NewDominion Bank loans and Carolina Alliance Bank loans as a result of credit deterioration post acquisition. As of December 31, 2020, there was a $678,000 allowance related to performing acquired NewDominion Bank loans and Carolina Alliance Bank loans.
Troubled Debt Restructurings ("TDRs")
Management classifies loans as TDRs when a borrower is experiencing financial difficulty and Park has granted a concession. In order to determine whether a borrower is experiencing financial difficulty, an evaluation is performed of the probability that the borrower will be in payment default on any of the borrower's debt in the foreseeable future without the modification. This evaluation is performed under the Company’s internal underwriting policy. Management’s policy is to modify loans by extending the term or by granting a temporary or permanent contractual interest rate below the market rate, not by forgiving debt. A court's discharge of a borrower's debt in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy is considered a concession when the borrower does not reaffirm the discharged debt.
Additionally, Park is working with borrowers impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and providing modifications to include
either interest only deferral or principal and interest deferral, in each case, for initial periods up to 90 days. As necessary, Park
is making available a second 90-day interest only deferral or principal and interest deferral bringing the total potential deferral
period to six months. A majority of these modifications are excluded from TDR classification under Section 4013 of the
CARES Act or under applicable interagency guidance of the federal banking regulators. In accordance with this guidance, such
modified loans will be considered current and will continue to accrue interest during the deferral period.
TDRs are measured at the present value of estimated future cash flows using the loan’s effective rate at inception, or if a TDR is considered to be a collateral dependent loan, the loan is reported, net, at the fair value of the collateral. Commercial TDRs are separately identified for impairment disclosures.
Premises and Equipment
Land is carried at cost and is not subject to depreciation. Premises and equipment are carried at cost, less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation is generally provided on the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of the remaining lease period or the estimated useful lives of the improvements. Upon the sale or other disposal of an asset, the cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts and the resulting gain or loss is recognized. Maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred while renewals and improvements that extend the useful life of an asset are capitalized. Premises and equipment are evaluated for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of a particular asset may not be recoverable.
The range of depreciable lives over which premises and equipment are being depreciated are:
Buildings30 Years
Building improvements5 to 10 Years
Equipment, furniture and fixtures3 to 12 Years
Leasehold improvementsShorter of the remaining lease period or the estimated useful life of the improvement
Other Real Estate Owned
Management transfers a loan to OREO at the time that Park takes deed/title to the asset. OREO is initially recorded at fair value less anticipated selling costs (net realizable value), establishing a new cost basis, and consists of property acquired through foreclosure and real estate held for sale. If the net realizable value is below the carrying value of the loan at the date of transfer, the difference is charged to the allowance for loan losses. These assets are subsequently accounted for at the lower of cost or fair value less costs to sell. Subsequent changes in the value of real estate are classified as OREO valuation adjustments, are reported as adjustments to the carrying amount of OREO and are recorded within “Other income”. In certain circumstances
where management believes the devaluation may not be permanent in nature, Park utilizes a valuation allowance to record OREO devaluations, which is also expensed through “Other income”. Costs relating to development and improvement of such properties are capitalized (not in excess of fair value less estimated costs to sell) and costs relating to holding the properties are charged to "Other expense".
Foreclosed Assets
Foreclosed assets include non-real estate assets where Park, as creditor, has received physical possession of a borrower’s assets, regardless of whether formal foreclosure proceedings take place. Additionally, TDRs in which Park obtains one of more of the debtor’s non-real estate assets in place of all or part of the receivable are accounted for as foreclosed assets. Foreclosed assets are initially recorded as fair value less costs to sell when acquired, establishing a new cost basis. Operating costs after acquisition are expensed as incurred. As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, Park had $3.6 million and $4.2 million, respectively, of foreclosed assets included within “Other assets.”
Mortgage Servicing Rights
When Park sells mortgage loans with servicing retained, MSRs are recorded at fair value with the income statement effect recorded in "Other service income." Capitalized MSRs are amortized in proportion to and over the period of the estimated future servicing income of the underlying loan and are included within “Other service income”.
MSRs are assessed for impairment quarterly, based on fair value, with any impairment recognized through a valuation allowance. The fair value of MSRs is determined by discounting estimated future cash flows from the servicing assets, using market discount rates and expected future prepayment rates. In order to calculate fair value, the sold loan portfolio is stratified into homogeneous pools of like categories. (See Note 26 - Loan Servicing.)
Fees received for servicing mortgage loans owned by investors are based on a percentage of the outstanding monthly principal balance of such loans and are included in income as loan payments are received. The amortization of MSRs is netted against loan servicing fee income, recorded in "Other service income".
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over net identifiable tangible and intangible assets acquired in a purchase business combination. Goodwill is not amortized to expense, but is subject to impairment tests annually, or more frequently, if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired, by assessing qualitative factors to determine whether the existence of events or circumstances leads to a determination that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If after assessing these events or circumstances, it is concluded that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, then the performance of additional analysis is unnecessary. If the carrying amount of the goodwill exceeds the fair value, an impairment charge must be recorded in an amount equal to the excess, not to exceed the total goodwill allocated to the reporting unit.
Park evaluates goodwill for impairment on April 1 of each year, with financial data as of March 31. Based on the qualitative analysis performed as of April 1, 2020, the Company determined that goodwill for PNB was not impaired. During each of the second, third and fourth quarters of 2020, management determined that the deterioration in general economic conditions as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and responses thereto represented a triggering event prompting an evaluation of goodwill for impairment. Based on the qualitative analysis performed during each of the second, third and fourth quarters of 2020, the Company determined that goodwill was not impaired. Management continues to monitor economic factors to evaluate goodwill impairment. (See Note 8 - Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets and Note 30 - Segment Information for operating segment results.)
Other intangible assets consist of core deposit intangibles and a trade name intangible. Core deposit intangibles are amortized on an accelerated basis over a period of ten years. The trade name intangible when initially recorded, assumed an indefinite useful life. During 2019, the trade name intangible was deemed impaired, and a $1.3 million charge was recorded in "other expense". (See Note 8 - Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.)
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Cash and cash equivalents include cash and cash items, amounts due from banks and money market instruments. Generally, money market instruments are purchased and sold for one-day periods.
Loss Contingencies
Loss contingencies, including claims and legal actions arising in the ordinary course of business, are recorded as liabilities when the likelihood of loss is probable and an amount or range of loss can be reasonably estimated. Management does not believe there now are such matters that will have a material effect on the financial statements.
Income Taxes
The Corporation accounts for income taxes using the asset and liability approach. Under this method, deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are determined based on differences between financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities and are measured using the enacted tax rates and laws that will be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse. To the extent that Park does not consider it more likely than not that a deferred tax asset will be recovered, a valuation allowance is recorded. All positive and negative evidence is reviewed when determining how much of a valuation allowance is recognized on a quarterly basis. A valuation allowance, if needed, reduces deferred tax assets to the amount expected to be realized.
An uncertain tax position is recognized as a benefit only if it is “more-likely-than-not” that the tax position would be sustained in a tax examination being presumed to occur. The benefit recognized for a tax position that meets the “more-likely-than-not” criteria is measured based on the largest benefit that is more than 50 percent likely to be realized, taking into consideration the amounts and probabilities of the outcome upon settlement. For tax positions not meeting the “more-likely-than-not” test, no tax benefit is recorded. Park recognizes any interest and penalties related to income tax matters in income tax expense.
Treasury Shares
The purchase of Park’s common shares to be held in treasury is recorded at cost. At the date of retirement or subsequent reissuance, the treasury shares account is reduced by the weighted average cost of the common shares retired or reissued.
Dividend Restriction
Banking regulations require maintaining certain capital levels and may limit the dividends paid by a bank to its parent holding company or by the parent holding company to its shareholders. (See Note 24 - Dividend Restrictions and Note 29 - Capital Ratios.)
Comprehensive Income
Comprehensive income consists of net income and other comprehensive income (loss). Other comprehensive income (loss) includes unrealized gains and losses on debt securities available for sale, changes in the funded status of the Company’s defined benefit pension plan and unrealized gains and losses on cash flow hedges which are also recognized as separate components of equity.
Share-Based Compensation
Compensation cost is recognized for restricted stock units and stock awards issued to employees and directors, respectively, based on the fair value of these awards at the date of grant. The market price of Park’s common shares at the date of grant is used to estimate the fair value of restricted stock units and stock awards. Compensation cost is recognized on a straight-line basis over the required service period, generally defined as the vesting period and is recorded in "Salaries" expense. (See Note 19 - Share-Based Compensation.) The Company's accounting policy is to recognize forfeitures as they occur.
Loan Commitments and Related Financial Instruments
Financial instruments include off-balance sheet credit instruments, such as commitments to make loans and commercial letters of credit, issued to meet customer financing needs. The face amount for these items represents the exposure to loss, before considering customer collateral or ability to repay. Such financial instruments are recorded when they are funded.
Fair Value Measurement
Fair values of financial instruments are estimated using relevant market information and other assumptions, as more fully disclosed in Note 28 - Fair Value. Fair value estimates involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment regarding interest rates, credit risk, prepayments, and other factors, especially in the absence of broad markets for particular items. Changes in assumptions or in market conditions could significantly affect the estimates.
Derivatives
At the inception of a derivative contract, Park designates the derivative as one of three types based on its intentions and belief as to the likely effectiveness as a hedge. These three types are (1) a hedge of the fair value of a recognized asset or liability or of an unrecognized firm commitment (“fair value hedge”), (2) a hedge of a forecasted transaction or the variability of cash flows to be received or paid related to a recognized asset or liability (“cash flow hedge”), or (3) an instrument with no hedging designation (“stand-alone derivative”). Park does not have any fair value hedges. For a cash flow hedge, the gain or loss on the derivative is reported in other comprehensive income and is reclassified into earnings in the same periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. Changes in the fair value of derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting are reported currently in earnings, as non-interest income.
Net cash settlements on derivatives that qualify for hedge accounting are recorded in interest income or interest expense, based on the item being hedged. Net cash settlements on derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting are reported in non-
interest income. Cash flows on hedges are classified in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flow under the same item as the cash flows of the items being hedged.
Park formally documents the relationship between derivatives and hedged items, as well as the risk-management objective and the strategy for undertaking hedge transactions at the inception of the hedging relationship. The documentation includes linking cash flow hedges to specific assets and liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Park also formally assesses, both at the hedge’s inception and on an ongoing basis, whether the derivative instruments that are used are highly effective in offsetting changes in cash flows of the hedged items. Park discontinues hedge accounting when it determines that the derivative is no longer effective in offsetting cash flows of the hedged item, the derivative is settled or terminates, or treatment of the derivative as a hedge is no longer appropriate or intended.
When hedge accounting is discontinued, subsequent changes in fair value of the derivative are recorded as non-interest income. When a cash flow hedge is discontinued but the hedged cash flows are still expected to occur, gains or losses that were accumulated in other comprehensive income are amortized into earnings over the same periods that the hedged transactions will affect earnings.
The Company is exposed to losses if a counterparty fails to make its payments under a contract in which the Company is in the net receiving position. The Company anticipates that the counterparties will be able to fully satisfy their obligations under the agreements. All the contracts to which the Company is party settle monthly or quarterly.
Transfers of Financial Assets
Transfers of financial assets are accounted for as sales, when control over the assets has been relinquished. Control over transferred assets is deemed to be surrendered when the assets have been isolated from the Company, the transferee obtains the right (free of conditions that constrain it from taking advantage of that right) to pledge or exchange the transferred assets, and the Company does not maintain effective control over the transferred assets through an agreement to repurchase them before their maturity.
Retirement Plans
Pension expense is the net of service and interest cost, return on plan assets and amortization of gains and losses not immediately recognized. The service cost component of pension expense is recorded within "Employee benefits" on the Consolidated Statements of Income. All other components of pension expense are recorded within "Other components of net periodic benefit income" on the Consolidated Statements of Income. Employee KSOP plan expense is the amount of matching contributions to Park's Employees Stock Ownership Plan. Deferred compensation and supplemental retirement plan expense allocates the benefits over years of service. (See Note 20 - Benefit Plans.)
Earnings Per Common Share
Basic earnings per common share is net income divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per common share includes the dilutive effect of additional potential common shares issuable under restricted stock unit awards. Earnings and dividends per common share are restated for any stock splits and stock dividends through the date of issuance of the consolidated financial statements. (See Note 19 - Share-Based Compensation and Note 23 - Earnings Per Common Share.)
Operating Segments
The Corporation is a financial holding company headquartered in Newark, Ohio. The operating segments for the Corporation are its chartered national bank subsidiary, PNB (headquartered in Newark, Ohio) and GFSC.
2. Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements and Issued But Not Yet Effective Accounting Standards
The following is a summary of new accounting pronouncements impacting Park's consolidated financial statements, and accounting standards that have been issued but are not effective for Park as of December 31, 2020:
Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements
ASU 2018-13 - Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework - Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement: In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-13 - Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework - Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement. This ASU modifies the disclosure requirements for fair value measurements in Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement by removing, modifying and adding certain requirements. The amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019. The adoption of this guidance on January 1, 2020 did not have an impact on Park’s consolidated financial statements, but did impact disclosures.
ASU 2020-04 - Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting: In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-04 - Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting. This ASU provides optional guidance for a limited period of time to ease the potential burden in accounting for (or recognizing the effects of) reference rate reform on financial reporting. The amendments in this ASU are effective from March 12, 2020 through December 31, 2022. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact on Park's consolidated financial statements, but Park will consider this guidance as contracts are transitioned from LIBOR to another reference rate.
ASU 2021-01 - Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Scope: In January 2021, the FASB issued ASU 2021-01 - Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Scope. This ASU clarifies the scope of Topic 848 so that derivatives affected by the discounting transition are explicitly eligible for certain optional expedients and exceptions in Topic 848. The amendments in this ASU are elective and apply to all entities that have derivative instruments that use an interest rate for margining, discounting, or contract price alignment that is modified as a result of reference rate reform. The amendments in this ASU are effective immediately for all entities. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact on Park's consolidated financial statements, but Park will consider this guidance as contracts are transitioned from LIBOR to another reference rate.
Issued But Not Yet Effective Accounting Standards
ASU 2016-13 - Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments: In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13 - Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments. The new accounting guidance in this ASU replaces the incurred loss methodology with an expected loss methodology, which is referred to as the current expected credit loss ("CECL") methodology. The CECL methodology is applicable to the measurement of credit losses on financial assets measured at amortized cost, including loan receivables, HTM debt securities, and reinsurance receivables. It also applies to off-balance sheet credit exposures not accounted for as insurance (loan commitments, standby letters of credit, financial guarantees, and other similar instruments) and net investments in leases recognized by a lessor. The CECL methodology requires an entity to estimate credit losses over the life of an asset or off-balance sheet credit exposure. The new accounting guidance was to have been effective for Park for annual reporting periods and interim reporting periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2019.
Section 4014 of the CARES Act provided financial institutions with optional temporary relief from having to comply with ASU 2016-13 ("Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments") including the CECL methodology for estimating the allowance for credit losses. This temporary relief was set to expire on the earlier of the date on which the national emergency concerning COVID-19 terminated or December 31, 2020, with adoption being effective retrospectively as of January 1, 2020.
Section 540 of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, amended Section 4014 of the CARES Act by extending the relief period provided in the CARES Act. The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, modifies the CARES Act so that the temporary relief will expire on the earlier of the first day of the fiscal year that begins after the date on which the national emergency concerning COVID-19 terminates or January 1, 2022.
Park elected to delay the implementation of CECL following the approval of the CARES Act. The CECL standard requires financial institutions to calculate an allowance utilizing a reasonable and supportable forecast period which Park has established as a one-year period. In the unprecedented circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic and the response thereto, Park believes that adopting the CECL methodology in the first quarter of 2020 would have added an unnecessary level of subjectivity and volatility to the calculation of the allowance for credit losses. With the approval of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, management has elected to further delay adoption of CECL to January 1, 2021. This will allow Park to utilize the CECL standard for the entire year of adoption.
Park formed a cross-functional CECL Committee and engaged a third party vendor to assist with the adoption of ASU 2016-13. The Company currently intends to use a blend of multiple economic forecasts to estimate expected credit losses over a one year reasonable and supportable forecast period and then revert, over a one year period to longer term historical loss experience to arrive at lifetime expected losses. Based on preliminary modeling results, management estimates that the reserve will increase to between $90 million and $100 million upon adoption, with the day 1 increase being recorded through a one-time cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings as of January 1, 2021. The actual impact from adopting this guidance may be subject to change based upon refinement and finalization of the model and associated assumptions, the refinement and finalization of qualitative factors, the implementation and testing of certain internal controls ensuring model effectiveness and management's judgment.
Park expects the Allowance for Credit Losses for unfunded commitments to increase to between $3.5 million and $4.5 million upon adoption of ASU 2016-13, with the day 1 increase being recorded through a one-time cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings as of January 1, 2021.
At adoption, Park did not have any securities classified as HTM debt securities. No allowance was recorded related to AFS debt securities at the date of adoption, January 1, 2021.
While it is expected that the adoption of ASU 2016-13 will increase the allowance for credit losses, many factors will determine the ultimate calculation at January 1, 2021. The adoption of ASU 2016-13 will not, however, change the overall credit risk in the Company's loan, lease and investment securities portfolios or the ultimate losses with respect thereto. The transition adjustment to increase the allowance will primarily result in a decrease to shareholders' equity, net of income taxes. The ultimate impact of the adoption of ASU 2016-13 will depend on the composition of the loan, lease and investment securities portfolios, finalization of credit loss models, and macroeconomic conditions and forecasts that exist at the date of adoption.
ASU 2018-14 - Compensation - Retirement Benefits - Defined Benefit Plans - General (Subtopic 715-20): Disclosure Framework - Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Defined Benefit Plans: In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-14 - Compensation - Retirement Benefits - Defined Benefit Plans - General (Subtopic 715-20): Disclosure Framework - Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Defined Benefit Plans. The amendments in this ASU modify the disclosure requirements for employers that sponsor defined benefit pension or other postretirement plans by removing disclosures that are no longer considered cost beneficial, clarifying the specific requirements of disclosures and adding disclosure requirements identified as relevant. The amendments in ASU 2018-14 are effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2020. The adoption of this guidance on January 1, 2021 did not have an impact on Park’s consolidated financial statements, but will impact disclosures.
ASU 2018-19 - Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses: In November 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-19 - Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses. The amendment in ASU 2018-19 clarifies that receivables arising from operating leases are not within the scope of Subtopic 326-20. Impairment of receivables arising from operating leases are to be accounted for in accordance with Topic 842, Leases. Park will consider this clarification in determining the appropriate adoption of ASU 2016-13.
ASU 2019-04 - Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses, Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging, and Topic 825, Financial Instruments: In April 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2018-19 - Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses, Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging, and Topic 825, Financial Instruments. ASU 2019-04 includes amendments that clarify or address specific issues about certain aspects of the amendments in ASU 2016-01, Financial Instruments - Overall (Subtopic 925-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities, ASU 2016-13 - Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments, and ASU 2017-12, Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities.
Park has already adopted ASU 2016-01. As a result, certain provisions in the amendments within ASU 2019-04 related to the same topics as ASU 2016-01 are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The adoption of the provisions related to the same topics as ASU 2016-01 on January 1, 2020, did not have a material effect on Park's consolidated financial statements.
For the amendments related to Topic 326 that clarify or address specific aspects of ASU 2016-13, Park will consider these clarifications in determining the appropriate adoption of ASU 2016-13.
Park has already adopted ASU 2017-12. As a result, the amendments within ASU 2019-04 were effective as of January 1, 2020. This ASU allows entities, like Park, that did not reclassify debt securities from HTM to AFS upon the adoption of ASU 2017-12 to reclassify these securities as of the adoption of ASU 2019-04. Park considered this option and, effective September 1, 2019, reclassified all HTM debt securities to AFS. The transfer occurred at fair value and resulted in an unrealized gain, net of taxes, of $19.1 million being recorded in other comprehensive income.
ASU 2019-05 - Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): In May 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-05 - Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326). The amendments in this ASU provide entities that have certain instruments within the scope of Subtopic 326-20, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses - Measured at Amortized Cost, with an option to irrevocably elect the fair value option in Subtopic 825-10, Financial Instruments - Overall, applied on an instrument-by-instrument basis for eligible instruments, upon adoption of Topic 326. Park will consider this amendment in determining the appropriate adoption of ASU 2016-13.
ASU 2019-11 - Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses: In November 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-11 - Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses. ASU 2019-11 represents changes to clarify, correct errors in, or improve the ASC related to five topics. The amendments make the ASC easier
to understand and easier to apply by eliminating inconsistencies and providing clarifications. Park will consider these clarifications and improvements in determining the appropriate adoption of ASU 2016-13.
ASU 2019-20 - Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes: In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-20 - Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes. ASU 2019-20 includes amendments to simplify accounting for income taxes by removing certain exceptions and adding requirements with the intention of simplifying and clarifying existing guidance. The amendments in ASU 2019-20 are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2020. The adoption of this guidance on January 1, 2021, did not have a material impact on Park's consolidated financial statements.
ASU 2020-01 - Investments - Equity Securities (Topic 321), Investments - Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323), and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815) - Clarifying the Interactions between Topic 321, Topic 323, and Topic 815: In January 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-01 - Investments - Equity Securities (Topic 321), Investments - Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323), and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815) - Clarifying the Interactions between Topic 321, Topic 323, and Topic 815. ASU 2020-01 represents changes to clarify certain interactions between the guidance to account for certain equity securities under Topic 321, the guidance to account for investments under the equity method of accounting in Topic 323, and the guidance in Topic 815. These amendments improve current U.S. GAAP by reducing diversity in practice and increasing comparability of the accounting for these transactions. The amendments in ASU 2020-01 are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020, and interim periods within those fiscal years. The adoption of this guidance on January 1, 2021 did not have a material impact on Park's consolidated financial statements.
ASU 2020-02 - Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326) and Leases (Topic 842) - Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 119 and Update to SEC Section on Effective Date Related to Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842): In February 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-02 - Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326) and Leases (Topic 842) - Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 119 and Update to SEC Section on Effective Date Related to Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). ASU 2020-02 represents changes to clarify or improve the ASC. The amendments make the ASC easier to understand and easier to apply by eliminating inconsistencies and providing clarifications. It also addresses transition and open effective date information for Topic 842. Park will consider these clarifications and improvements in determining the appropriate adoption of ASU 2016-13.
ASU 2020-03 - Codification Improvements to Financial Instruments: In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-03 - Codification Improvements to Financial Instruments. ASU 2020-03 represents changes to clarify or improve the ASC related to seven topics. The amendments make the ASC easier to understand and easier to apply by eliminating inconsistencies and providing clarifications. Issues 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 are conforming amendments and for public entities were effective upon the issuance of the standard. Issues 6 and 7 are amendments that affect the guidance in ASU 2016-13. Park will consider these clarifications and improvements in determining the appropriate adoption of ASU 2016-13.
ASU 2020-08 - Codification Improvements to Subtopic 310-20, Receivables - Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs: In October 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-08 - Codification Improvements to Subtopic 310-20, Receivables - Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs. ASU 2020-08 clarifies that an entity should reevaluate whether a callable debt security is within the scope of paragraph 310-20-35-33 for each reporting period. The amendments in ASU 2020-08 are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2020. Early application was not permitted. The adoption of this guidance on January 1, 2021, did not have a material impact on Park's consolidated financial statements.
3. Organization
Park National Corporation is a financial holding company headquartered in Newark, Ohio. Through PNB, Park is engaged in a general commercial banking and trust business, primarily in Ohio, Kentucky, North Carolina, and South Carolina, with the exception of nationwide aircraft loans and nationwide asset-based lending to consumer finance companies. PNB is headquartered in Newark, Ohio. A wholly-owned subsidiary of Park, GFSC is a consumer finance company located in Central Ohio.
Through February 16, 2012, Park operated a second banking subsidiary, Vision Bank ("Vision"), which was engaged in a general commercial banking business, primarily in Baldwin County, Alabama and the panhandle of Florida. Promptly following the sale of the Vision business to Centennial Bank (a wholly-owned subsidiary of Home BancShares, Inc.), Vision surrendered its Florida banking charter to the Florida Office of Financial Regulation and became a non-bank Florida corporation. Vision (the Florida corporation) merged with and into a wholly-owned, non-bank subsidiary of Park, SEPH, with SEPH being the surviving entity. SEPH holds the remaining assets and liabilities retained by Vision subsequent to the sale. SEPH also holds
OREO that had previously been transferred to SEPH from Vision. SEPH's assets consist primarily of nonperforming loans and OREO. This non-bank subsidiary represents a run off portfolio of the legacy Vision assets.
PNB provides the following principal services: the acceptance of deposits for demand, savings and time accounts; commercial, industrial, consumer and real estate lending, including installment loans, credit cards (which are largely offered through a third party), home equity lines of credit and commercial leasing; trust and wealth management services; cash management; safe deposit operations; electronic funds transfers and a variety of additional banking-related services. See Note 30 - Segment Information for financial information on the Corporation’s operating segments.
4. Business Combinations
CAB Financial Corporation
On April 1, 2019, CAB Financial Corporation, a South Carolina corporation, merged with and into Park, with Park continuing as the surviving entity pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger and Reorganization (the "CABF Merger Agreement"), dated as of September 12, 2018, by and between Park and CABF. Immediately following the CABF merger into Park, Carolina Alliance Bank, a South Carolina state-chartered bank and a wholly-owned subsidiary of CABF, was merged with and into PNB, with PNB as the surviving bank. In accordance with the CABF Merger Agreement, CABF shareholders were to receive for each share of their CABF common stock (i) $3.80 in cash (the cash consideration) and (ii) 0.1378 of a Park common share (the stock consideration). CABF stock options and restricted stock awards were fully vested (with any performance-based vesting condition deemed satisfied) and canceled and converted automatically into the right to receive merger consideration.
Purchase consideration consisted of 1,037,205 Park common shares, valued at $98.3 million, and $28.6 million in cash to acquire 100% of CABF's outstanding shares of common stock. The acquisition is expected to provide additional revenue growth and geographic diversification.
Carolina Alliance's results of operations were included in Park's results beginning April 1, 2019. For the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, Park recorded merger-related expenses of $603,000 and $8.8 million, respectively, associated with the Carolina Alliance acquisition.
Goodwill of $46.9 million arising from the acquisition consisted largely of synergies and the cost savings resulting from the combining of the operations of PNB and Carolina Alliance. The goodwill is not deductible for income tax purposes as the transaction was accounted for as a tax-free exchange.
The following table summarizes the consideration paid for Carolina Alliance and the amounts of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at their fair value:
Park accounted for the Carolina Alliance acquisition using the acquisition method of accounting and accordingly, assets acquired, liabilities assumed and consideration exchanged were recorded at estimated fair value on the acquisition date, in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 805, Business Combinations.
The fair value of net assets acquired includes fair value adjustments to loans that were not considered impaired as of the acquisition date. The fair value adjustments were determined using discounted contractual cash flows. However, Park believes that all contractual cash flows related to these loans will be collected. As such, these loans were not considered impaired at the acquisition date and were not subject to the guidance relating to purchased credit impaired loans which have shown evidence of credit deterioration since origination. Loans acquired that were not subject to these requirements included non-impaired loans with a fair value and gross contractual amounts receivable of $560.2 million and $572.6 million, respectively, on the date of acquisition.
The table below presents information with respect to the fair value of acquired loans as well as their book balance at the acquisition date.
The following table presents supplemental pro forma information as if the Carolina Alliance acquisitions had occurred as of January 1, 2018. The unaudited pro forma information includes adjustments for interest income on loans and securities acquired, amortization of intangibles arising from the respective transactions, depreciation expense on property acquired, interest expense on deposits acquired, and the related tax effects. The pro forma information is not necessarily indicative of the results of operations that would have occurred had the transactions been effected on the assumed date.
5. Investment Securities
The amortized cost and fair value of investment securities are shown in the following tables. Management performs a quarterly evaluation of investment securities for any other-than-temporary impairment. During 2020, 2019 and 2018, there were no investment securities deemed to be other-than-temporarily impaired.
Debt Securities
Investment securities at December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 were as follows:
The following table provides detail on investment securities with unrealized losses aggregated by investment category and length of time the individual securities had been in a continuous loss position at December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019:
Management does not believe any individual unrealized loss as of December 31, 2020 or 2019 represented an other-than-temporary impairment. The unrealized loss on agency issued debt securities are primarily the result of interest rate changes. These conditions will not prohibit Park from receiving its contractual principal and interest payments on these debt securities. The fair value of these debt securities is expected to recover as payments are received on these securities and they approach maturity. Should the impairment of any of these securities become other-than-temporary, the cost basis of the investment will be reduced and the resulting loss attributable to credit will be recognized in net income in the period the other-than-temporary impairment is identified.
The amortized cost and estimated fair value of investments in debt securities at December 31, 2020, are shown in the following table by contractual maturity, except for asset-backed securities, which are shown as a single total, due to the unpredictability of the timing in principal repayments.
(1) The tax equivalent yield for obligations of states and political subdivisions includes the effects of a taxable equivalent adjustment using a 21% federal corporate income tax rate.
At December 31, 2020, investment securities with an amortized cost of $329 million were pledged for government and trust department deposits, $349 million were pledged to secure repurchase agreements and $14 million were pledged as collateral for FHLB advance borrowings. At December 31, 2019, investment securities with an amortized cost of $370 million were pledged for government and trust department deposits, $197 million were pledged to secure repurchase agreements and $18 million were pledged as collateral for FHLB advance borrowings.
At December 31, 2020, 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 shareholders’ equity.
During 2020, Park sold certain AFS debt securities with a book value of $112.5 million at a gross loss of $64,000, and sold certain AFS debt securities with a book value of $196.4 million at a gross gain of $3.4 million. During 2019, Park sold certain AFS debt securities with a book value of $62.4 million at a gross loss of $692,000, and sold certain AFS debt securities with a book value of $29.1 million at a gross gain of $271,000. During 2018, Park sold certain AFS debt securities with a book value of $245.0 million at a gross loss of $2.6 million, sold certain AFS debt securities with a book value of $2.0 million at a gross gain of $60,000, and sold certain HTM debt securities with a book value of $7.4 million at a gross gain of $0.3 million. These HTM debt securities had been paid down by 96.3% of the principal outstanding at acquisition.
On September 1, 2019, Park adopted the portion of ASU 2019-04 which allowed for a one-time reclassification of securities from HTM to AFS. On that date, Park transferred HTM securities with a fair value of $373.9 million to the AFS classification. The transfer occurred at fair value and had a related unrealized gain, net of taxes, of $19.1 million recorded in other comprehensive income.
Other Investment Securities
Other investment securities (as shown on the Consolidated Balance Sheets) consist of stock investments in the FHLB, the FRB, and equity securities. The FHLB and FRB restricted stock investments are carried at their redemption value. Equity securities with a readily determinable fair value are carried at fair value. Equity securities without a readily determinable fair value are recorded at cost, minus impairment, if any, plus or minus changes resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions ("modified cost"). Park's portfolio of equity investments in limited partnerships which provide mezzanine funding ("Partnership Investments") are valued using the net asset value practical expedient in accordance with ASC 820.
The carrying amount of other investment securities at December 31, 2020 and 2019 was as follows:
(1) There have been no impairments, downward adjustments, or upward adjustments made to equity investments carried at modified cost.
During the year ended December 31, 2020, the FHLB repurchased 79,697 shares of FHLB stock with a book value of $8.0 million. No shares of FRB stock were purchased or sold in 2020. During the year ended December 31, 2019, the FHLB repurchased 133,281 shares of FHLB stock with a book value of $13.3 million. Additionally, during 2019, Park acquired Carolina Alliance's FHLB shares which were subsequently repurchased by the FHLB. Park purchased 128,553 shares of FRB stock with a book value of $6.4 million in 2019.
For the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, $(239,000), $345,000 and $(287,000), respectively, of unrealized (losses) gains on equity investments carried at fair value were recorded within "Gain on equity securities, net" on the Consolidated Statements of Income. An additional $3.5 million gain recorded within "Gain on equity securities, net" on the Consolidated Statement of Income for the year ended December 31, 2018 relates to Park's 8.55% investment in NewDominion Bank which merged with Park National Bank on July 1, 2018.
For the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, $2.4 million, $4.8 million and $1.4 million, respectively, of gains on equity investments carried at NAV were recorded within "Gain on equity securities, net" on the Consolidated Statements of Income.
6. Loans
The composition of the loan portfolio, by class of loan, as of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 was as follows:
* Included within commercial, financial and agricultural loans and commercial real estate loans was an immaterial amount of consumer loans that were not broken out by class.
In order to support customers, Park participated in the CARES Act Paycheck Protection Program ("PPP"), approving and funding 4,439 loans totaling $543.1 million under the PPP. Included within commercial, financial and agricultural loans are $337.1 million of PPP loans at December 31, 2020. For its assistance in originating and retaining these loans, Park received an aggregate of $20.2 million in fees from the SBA. Of this $20.2 million of PPP fees, Park recognized $13.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2020.
Loans are shown net of deferred origination fees, costs and unearned income of $23.6 million at December 31, 2020 and of $16.3 million at December 31, 2019, which represented a net deferred income position in both years. At December 31, 2020, included in the net deferred origination fees, costs and unearned income of $23.6 million were $6.5 million in net origination fees related to PPP loans. At December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, loans included purchase accounting adjustments of $7.2 million and $11.7 million, respectively, which represented a net deferred income position at each date. This fair market value purchase accounting adjustment related to loans which are not PCI is expected to be recognized into interest income on a level yield basis over the remaining expected life of the loans.
Overdrawn deposit accounts of $2.0 million and $2.2 million had been reclassified to loans at December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively, and are included in the commercial, financial and agricultural loan class above.
Credit Quality
The following table presents the recorded investment in nonaccrual loans, accruing TDRs, and loans past due 90 days or more and still accruing by class of loan as of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019:
The following table provides additional information regarding those nonaccrual and accruing TDR loans that are individually evaluated for impairment and those collectively evaluated for impairment as of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019.
All of the loans individually evaluated for impairment were evaluated using the fair value of the collateral or the present value of expected future cash flows as the measurement method.
The following table presents loans individually evaluated for impairment by class of loan as of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019.
Management’s general practice is to proactively charge down loans individually evaluated for impairment to the fair value of the underlying collateral. At December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, there were $0.6 million and $0.5 million, respectively, of partial charge-offs on loans individually evaluated for impairment with no related allowance recorded and $16,000 and $210,000, respectively, of partial charge-offs on loans individually evaluated for impairment that also had a specific reserve allocated.
The allowance for loan losses included specific reserves related to loans individually evaluated for impairment at December 31, 2020 and 2019 of $5.4 million and $5.2 million, respectively. These loans with specific reserves had a recorded investment of $13.9 million and $12.7 million as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
Interest income on nonaccrual loans individually evaluated for impairment is recognized on a cash basis only when Park
expects to receive the entire recorded investment in the loans. Interest income on accruing TDRs individually evaluated for
impairment continues to be recorded on an accrual basis. The following table presents the average recorded investment and
interest income recognized subsequent to impairment on loans individually evaluated for impairment as of and for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018:
The following tables present the aging of the recorded investment in past due loans as of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 by class of loan.
(1) Includes an aggregate of $1.6 million of loans past due 90 days or more and accruing. The remaining are past due, nonaccrual loans.
(2) Includes an aggregate of $92.6 million of nonaccrual loans which are current in regards to contractual principal and interest payments.
(1) Includes an aggregate of $2.7 million of loans past due 90 days or more and accruing. The remaining are past due, nonaccrual loans.
(2) Includes an aggregate of $66.3 million of nonaccrual loans which are current in regards to contractual principal and interest payments.
Credit Quality Indicators
Management utilizes past due information as a credit quality indicator across the loan portfolio. Past due information as of December 31, 2020 and 2019 is included in the tables above. The past due information is the primary credit quality indicator within the following classes of loans: (1) mortgage loans and installment loans in the construction real estate segment; (2) mortgage loans, HELOC and installment loans in the residential real estate segment; and (3) consumer loans. The primary credit indicator for commercial loans is based on an internal grading system that grades all commercial loans on a scale from 1 to 8. Credit grades are continuously monitored by the responsible loan officer and adjustments are made when appropriate. A grade of 1 indicates little or no credit risk and a grade of 8 is considered a loss. Commercial loans that are pass rated (graded a 1 through a 4) are considered to be of acceptable credit risk. Commercial loans graded a 5 (special mention) are considered to be watch list credits and a higher loan loss reserve percentage is allocated to these loans. Loans classified as special mention have potential weaknesses that require management’s close attention. If left uncorrected, these potential weaknesses may result in deterioration of the repayment prospects for the loan or of Park’s credit position at some future date. Commercial loans graded a 6 (substandard), also considered watch list credits, are considered to represent higher credit risk and, as a result, a higher loan loss reserve percentage is allocated to these loans. Loans classified as substandard are inadequately protected by the current sound worth and paying capacity of the obligor or the value of the collateral pledged, if any. Loans so classified have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses that jeopardize the liquidation of the debt. They are characterized by the distinct possibility that Park will sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected. Commercial loans graded a 7 (doubtful) are shown as nonaccrual and Park generally charges these loans down to their fair value by taking a partial charge-off or recording a specific reserve. Loans classified as doubtful have all the weaknesses inherent in those classified as substandard with the added characteristic that the weaknesses make collection or liquidation in full, on the basis of currently existing facts, conditions, and values, highly questionable and improbable. Certain 6-rated loans and all 7-rated loans are placed on nonaccrual status and included within the impaired category. A loan is deemed impaired when management determines the borrower's ability to perform in accordance with the contractual loan agreement is in doubt. Any commercial loan graded an 8 (loss) is completely charged off.
The tables below present the recorded investment by loan grade at December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 for all commercial loans:
* Included within commercial, financial and agricultural loans and commercial real estate loans is an immaterial amount of consumer loans that were not broken out by class.
(1) There were no loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality which were nonaccrual or TDRs at December 31, 2020.
* Included within commercial, financial and agricultural loans and commercial real estate loans is an immaterial amount of consumer loans that were not broken out by class.
(1) Excludes loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality which are nonaccrual or TDRs due to additional credit deterioration or modification post acquisition. These loans had a recorded investment of $6,000 at December 31, 2019.
Loans and Leases Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality
In conjunction with the NewDominion acquisition, Park acquired loans with a book value of $277.9 million as of the July 1,
2018 acquisition date. These loans were recorded at the initial fair value of $272.8 million. Loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality with a book value of $5.1 million were recorded at the initial fair value of $4.9 million. The carrying amount of loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality at December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 was $1.6 million and $3.0 million, respectively, while the outstanding customer balance was $1.7 million and $3.2 million, respectively. At December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, an allowance for loan losses of $1,000 and $101,000, respectively, had been recognized related to the acquired impaired loans.
In conjunction with the Carolina Alliance acquisition, Park acquired loans and leases with a book value of $589.7 million as of
the April 1, 2019 acquisition date. These loans and leases were recorded at the initial fair value of $578.6 million. Loans and leases acquired with deteriorated credit quality with a book value of $19.9 million were recorded at the initial fair value of $18.4 million. The carrying amount of loans and leases acquired with deteriorated credit quality at December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 was $9.5 million and $11.3 million, respectively, while the outstanding customer balance was $11.8 million and $13.8 million, respectively. At December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, an allowance for loan losses of $166,000 and $167,000, respectively, had been recognized related to the acquired impaired loans.
Troubled Debt Restructurings
Management typically classifies loans as TDRs when a borrower is experiencing financial difficulties and Park has granted a concession to the borrower as part of a modification or in the loan renewal process. In order to determine whether a borrower is experiencing financial difficulty, an evaluation is performed of the probability that the borrower will be in payment default on any of the borrower's debt in the foreseeable future without the modification. This evaluation is performed in accordance with the Company’s internal underwriting policy. Management’s policy is to modify loans by extending the term or by granting a temporary or permanent contractual interest rate below the market rate, not by forgiving debt. A court's discharge of a borrower's debt in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy is considered a concession when the borrower does not reaffirm the discharged debt.
Additionally, Park is working with borrowers impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and providing modifications to include
either interest only deferral or principal and interest deferral, in each case, for initial periods up to 90 days. As necessary, Park
is making available a second 90-day interest only deferral or principal and interest deferral bringing the total potential deferral
period to six months. A majority of these modifications are excluded from TDR classification under Section 4013 of the
CARES Act or under applicable interagency guidance of the federal banking regulators. In accordance with this guidance, such
modified loans will be considered current and will continue to accrue interest during the deferral period.
Certain loans which were modified during the years ended December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 did not meet the definition of a TDR as the modification was a delay in a payment that was considered to be insignificant. Management considers a forbearance period of up to three months or a delay in payment of up to 30 days to be insignificant. TDRs may be classified as accruing if the borrower has been current for a period of at least six months with respect to loan payments and management expects that the borrower will be able to continue to make payments in accordance with the terms of the restructured note. Management reviews all accruing TDRs quarterly to ensure payments continue to be made in accordance with the modified terms.
At December 31, 2020 and 2019, there were $25.8 million and $34.3 million, respectively, of TDRs included in the nonaccrual loan totals. At December 31, 2020 and 2019, $12.9 million and $23.2 million, respectively, of these nonaccrual TDRs were performing in accordance with the terms of the restructured notes. At December 31, 2020 and 2019, loans with a recorded investment of $20.9 million and $21.3 million, respectively, were included in accruing TDR loan totals. Management will continue to review the restructured loans and may determine it is appropriate to move certain nonaccrual TDRs to accrual status in the future.
At December 31, 2020 and 2019, Park had commitments to lend $6.7 million and $7.9 million, respectively, of additional funds to borrowers whose outstanding loan terms had been modified in a TDR.
At December 31, 2020 and 2019, there were $0.2 million and $2.2 million, respectively, of specific reserves related to TDRs. Modifications made in 2020 and 2019 were largely the result of renewals and extending the maturity date of the loans at terms consistent with the original notes. These modifications were deemed to be TDRs primarily due to Park’s conclusion that the borrower would likely not have qualified for similar terms through another lender. Many of the modifications deemed to be TDRs were previously identified as impaired loans, and thus were also previously evaluated for impairment under ASC 310.
Additional specific reserves of $7,000 were recorded during the year ended December 31, 2020, as a result of TDRs identified in the 2020 year. Additional specific reserves of $1,300 were recorded during the year ended December 31, 2019, as a result of TDRs identified in the 2019 year. Additional specific reserves of $0.2 million were recorded during the year ended December 31, 2018, as a result of TDRs identified in the 2018 year.
Quarterly, management reviews renewals/modifications of loans previously identified as TDRs to consider if it is appropriate to
remove the TDR classification. If the borrower is no longer experiencing financial difficulty and the renewal/modification did
not contain a concessionary interest rate or other concessionary terms and the terms of the renewal/modification are considered
to be market terms based on the current risk characteristics of the borrower, management considers the potential removal of the
TDR classification. If deemed appropriate, the TDR classification is removed if the borrower has complied with the terms of the
loan at the date of the renewal/modification and there was a reasonable expectation that the borrower would continue to comply
with the terms of the loan subsequent to the date of the renewal/modification. The majority of these TDRs were originally
considered restructurings in a prior year as a result of a renewal/modification with an interest rate that was not commensurate
with the risk of the underlying loan at the time of the renewal/modification. During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, Park removed the TDR classification on $2.3 million and $38,000, respectively, of loans that met the requirements discussed above.
The terms of certain other loans were modified during the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 that did not meet the definition of a TDR. Excluding COVID-19 related modifications, there were $0.2 million of substandard commercial loans modified during the year ended December 31, 2020 which did not meet the definition of a TDR. There were $0.6 million of substandard commercial loans modified during the year ended December 31, 2019 which did not meet the definition of a TDR.
Excluding COVID-19 related modifications, consumer loans modified during 2020 which did not meet the definition of a TDR had a total recorded investment as of December 31, 2020 of $57.9 million. Consumer loans modified during 2019 which did not meet the definition of a TDR had a total recorded investment as of December 31, 2019 of $36.2 million. Many of these loans were to borrowers who were not experiencing financial difficulties but who were looking to reduce their cost of funds.
During the year ended December 31, 2020, Park modified 5,005 consumer loans, with an aggregate balance of $103.5 million, and modified 1,399 commercial loans, with an aggregate balance of $563.7 million, in each case related to a hardship
caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and responses thereto. Of the $103.5 million in consumer COVID-19 related
modifications, $2.1 million were already classified as TDRs due to previous modifications and $949,000 were classified as
TDRs due to the COVID-19 modification. Of the $563.7 million in commercial COVID-19 related modifications, $6.3 million
were already classified as TDRs due to previous modifications and $109,000 were classified as TDRs due to the COVID-19
modification. The remaining loans met the exclusion criteria for TDR accounting either in Section 4013 of the CARES Act or
in applicable interagency guidance.
The following tables detail the number of contracts modified as TDRs during the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 as well as the recorded investment of these contracts at December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018. The recorded investment pre- and post-modification is generally the same due to the fact that Park does not typically forgive principal.
Of those loans which were modified and determined to be a TDR during the year ended December 31, 2020, $0.4 million were on nonaccrual status as of December 31, 2019. Of those loans which were modified and determined to be a TDR during the year ended December 31, 2019, $2.1 million were on nonaccrual status as of December 31, 2018. Of those loans which were modified and determined to be a TDR during the year ended December 31, 2018, $0.5 million were on nonaccrual status as of December 31, 2017.
The following table presents the recorded investment in financing receivables which were modified as TDRs within the previous 12 months and for which there was a payment default during the year ended December 31, 2020, December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018. For this table, a loan is considered to be in default when it becomes 30 days contractually past due under the modified terms. The additional allowance for loan loss resulting from the defaults on TDR loans was immaterial.
Of the $4.4 million in modified TDRs which defaulted during the year ended December 31, 2020, $706,000 were accruing loans and $3.7 million were nonaccrual loans. Of the $1.4 million in modified TDRs which defaulted during the year ended December 31, 2019, $350,000 were accruing loans and $1.0 million were nonaccrual loans. Of the $1.3 million in modified TDRs which defaulted during the year ended December 31, 2018, $86,000 were accruing loans and $1.2 million were nonaccrual loans.
Certain of the Corporation’s executive officers, directors and related entities of directors are loan customers of PNB. As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, credit exposure aggregating approximately $51.3 million and $44.3 million, respectively, was outstanding to such parties. Of this total exposure, approximately $32.0 million and $28.7 million was outstanding at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, with the remaining balance representing available credit. During 2020, new loans and advances on existing loans were made to these executive officers, directors and related entities of directors totaling $0.6 million and $12.4 million, respectively. These extensions of credit were offset by principal payments of $9.7 million. During 2019, new loans and advances on existing loans were $9.2 million and $8.9 million, respectively. These extensions of credit were offset by principal payments of $15.3 million.
7. Allowance for Loan Losses
The allowance for loan losses is that amount management believes is adequate to absorb probable incurred credit losses in the
loan portfolio based on management’s evaluation of various factors including the overall growth in the loan portfolio, an
analysis of individual loans, prior and current loss experience, and current economic conditions. A provision for loan losses is
charged to operations based on management’s periodic evaluation of these and other pertinent factors as discussed within Note
1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies.
Loss factors are reviewed quarterly and updated at least annually to reflect recent loan loss history and incorporate current risks and trends which may not be recognized in historical data.
For all loan types, management considers the following factors in determining loan collectability and the appropriate level of the allowance:
•Changes in the nature and volume of the portfolio and in the terms of loans, including:
◦Trends (e.g., growth, reduction) in specific categories of the loan portfolio, as well as adjustments to the types of loans offered by PNB and GFSC.
◦Level of and trend in loan delinquencies, troubled loans, commercial watch list and impaired loans.
◦Level of and trend in new nonaccrual loans.
◦Level of and trend in loan charge-offs and recoveries.
•Changes in lending policies and procedures, including changes in underwriting standards and collection, charge-off, and recovery practices.
•Changes in national and local economic and business conditions and developments that affect the collectability of the portfolio.
•The effect of other external factors such as competition and legal and regulatory requirements on the level of estimated losses in Park's existing portfolio.
Commercial Loans
The following are factors management reviews specifically for commercial loans on a quarterly or annual basis.
•Historical Loss Factor: In calculating the allowance for loan losses, management believes it is appropriate to consider historical loss rates that are comparable to the current period being analyzed, giving consideration to losses experienced over a full cycle. As such, a year is added to the look back period each time historical losses are updated, until the economic cycle is complete, as defined by a period of rising charge-offs, considering both internal and industry trends. In updating the historical loss rates to incorporate 2020 losses, management considered if the economic deterioration as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic represented the end of a cycle for the purposes of the allowance for loan loss calculation, but, due to the historically low level of charge-offs, determined 2020 should be included in the cycle beginning in 2010. For the historical loss factor at December 31, 2020, the Company utilized an annual loss rate, calculated based on an average of the net charge-offs and the annual change in specific reserves for impaired commercial loans, experienced during 2010 through 2020 within the individual segments of the commercial and consumer loan categories.
•Loss Emergence Period Factor: Typically, management calculates the loss emergence period for each commercial loan segment on an annual basis. The loss emergence period is calculated based upon the average period of time it takes from the probable occurrence of a loss event to the loan being moved to nonaccrual. If the loss emergence period for any commercial loan segment is greater than one year, management applies additional general reserves to all performing loans within that segment of the commercial loan portfolio. The loss emergence period was last updated in the fourth quarter of 2019. Management did not update the loss emergence period calculation in 2020. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, management performed a timely analysis into its commercial loan portfolio to identify loans negatively impacted by the pandemic. This resulted in the downgrade of numerous loans to nonaccrual status within months of the loss event (the COVID-19 pandemic). Including these loans artificially lowers the loss emergence period for 2020. Management does not believe this is reflective of what is expected as the loss emergence period for the remaining portfolio.
During the third quarter of 2020, Park made the decision to extend the loss emergence period on all commercial loan types by six months. Management believes that the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020 represents the loss event. Management continues to refine its estimate of incurred losses as a result of this March 2020 loss event. Approximately nine months following the start of the pandemic, Park has experienced very little, if any, increase in delinquencies and charge-offs. Management believes that this is due to the unprecedented level of economic stimulus, CARES Act accommodations, and Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 accommodations provided by the U.S. government which has delayed loan defaults and losses.
•Loss Migration Factor: Park’s commercial loans are individually risk graded. If loan downgrades occur, the probability of default increases, and accordingly, management allocates a higher percentage reserve to those accruing commercial loans graded special mention and substandard. Annually, management calculates a loss migration factor for each commercial loan segment for special mention and substandard credits based on a review of losses over the period of time a loan takes to migrate from pass-rated to impaired. The loss migration factor was last updated in the fourth quarter of 2020.
•Environmental Loss Factor: Management has identified certain macroeconomic factors that trend in accordance with losses in Park’s commercial loan portfolio. Certain environmental loss factors have been determined to correlate with higher charge-offs while other adjustments are based on a subjective evaluation of other environmental loss factors. Environmental factors applicable to the commercial loan portfolio include: the Ohio unemployment rate, percent change in Ohio GDP, the consumer confidence index, the prevalence of fixed rate loans in the portfolio and other environmental factors. In evaluating the ongoing relevance and amount of the other environmental factors, management considers: changes in lending policies and procedures, including changes in underwriting standards and collection, charge-off and recovery practices, changes in national and local economic and business conditions, and developments that affect the collectability of the portfolio, and the effect of other external factors such as competition and legal and regulatory requirements on the level of estimated losses in Park's existing portfolio. All of these factors
are evaluated in relation to the historical look back period. At both December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, such subjective environmental loss factor inputs accounted for 42% of the allowance for loan losses driven by environmental loss factors.
These macroeconomic factors are reviewed quarterly and the adjustments made to the environmental loss factor impacting each segment in the performing commercial loan portfolio correlate to changes in the macroeconomic environment in relation to the historical loss period. The environmental loss factors were updated in each quarter of 2020 to consider the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. These factors were increased from 0.60% of applicable loans at December 31, 2019 to 0.675% of applicable loans at March 31, 2020, to 0.75% of applicable loans at June 30, 2020, to 0.825% at September 30, 2020, and to 0.855% at December 31, 2020. The increases in the first and second quarters of 2020 were the result of upward adjustments to the factors for Ohio unemployment, percent change in Ohio GDP and consumer confidence. The increase in the third quarter of 2020 was due to the increased uncertainty in the overall economic environment, the unknown length and severity of the pandemic and the limitations in the incurred loss model to capture all probable incurred losses during such uncertain times. The increase in the fourth quarter was a result of consideration of the other environmental factors in relation to the extended 132-month historical loss period. Management will continue to evaluate this estimate of incurred losses as new information becomes available.
In addition to the increases in the environmental loss factor, in the second quarter, Park added additional reserves for three industries at particularly high risk due to the pandemic: hotels and accommodations, restaurants and food service, and strip shopping centers. These industries have had high levels of deferrals and have been particularly impacted by shut downs of non-essential businesses, increased health department regulations, and changes in consumer behavior. Management expects that a high percentage of the 4-rated credits in these portfolios will eventually migrate to special mention, substandard, or impaired status. As a result, additional reserves totaling $3.8 million were added for these portfolios on top of that already calculated. This amount was calculated by applying the loss factor for special mention credits to all 4-rated loans in these portfolios. A breakout of the 4-rated balances and additional reserve related to these portfolios is detailed in the following table.
Additionally, management applied a 1% reserve to all hotels and accommodations loans in the general reserve population to account for increased valuation risk. At December 31, 2020, Park's originated hotels and accommodation loans had a balance of $181.4 million with an additional reserve related to valuation risks of $1.8 million.
As of December 31, 2020, Park had $337.1 million of PPP loans which are included in the commercial, financial and agricultural portfolio segment. These loans are guaranteed by the SBA and thus have not been reserved for using the same methodology as the rest of Park’s loan portfolio. A 10 basis point reserve was calculated for these loans to reflect minimal credit risk.
Consumer Loans
For the consumer portfolio, a specific COVID-19 factor was added to each segment equal to 75% of the 132-month historical loss factor (representing 9 months of charge-off delay). This increase considers the payment deferrals being provided to consumer loan customers and unprecedented level of government stimulus as well as the likely delays in delinquencies and charge-offs as a result.
Much is still unknown about the economic impact of COVID-19, including the duration of the pandemic, future government programs that may be established as a result of the pandemic, and the resiliency of the U.S. economy. Management will continue to evaluate this estimate of incurred losses as new information becomes available. Given uncertainty about the magnitude and length of the COVID-19 pandemic and related economic shutdown, additional loan loss provisions may be required that would adversely impact earnings in future periods.
Purchased Loans
Loans acquired as part of the acquisitions of NewDominion and Carolina Alliance were recorded at fair value on the respective dates of acquisition. An allowance is only established on these loans as a result of credit deterioration post acquisition. At December 31, 2020, there was a $678,000 allowance related to performing acquired loans. At December 31, 2020, a reserve of $167,000 had been established related to PCI loans. At December 31, 2019, there was no allowance related to performing acquired loans, and a reserve of $268,000 related to PCI loans.
The activity in the allowance for loan losses for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018 is summarized in the following tables.
Loans collectively evaluated for impairment in the following tables include all performing loans at December 31, 2020 and 2019, as well as nonperforming loans internally classified as consumer loans. Nonperforming consumer loans are not typically individually evaluated for impairment, but receive a portion of the statistical allocation of the allowance for loan losses. Loans individually evaluated for impairment include all impaired loans internally classified as commercial loans at December 31, 2020 and 2019, which are evaluated for impairment in accordance with U.S. GAAP (see Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies).
The composition of the allowance for loan losses at December 31, 2020 and 2019 was as follows:
(1) Excludes loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality which are individually evaluated for impairment due to additional credit deterioration post acquisition. These loans had a balance of $5,000, a recorded investment of $6,000, and no allowance as of December 31, 2019.
8. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
The following table shows the activity in goodwill and other intangible assets for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018.
Goodwill impairment exists when a reporting unit's carrying value exceeds its fair value. Park evaluates goodwill for impairment on April 1 of each year, with financial data as of March 31. At April 1, 2020, the Company's reporting unit, PNB, had positive equity and the Company elected to perform a qualitative assessment to determine if it was more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit exceeded its carrying value, including goodwill. The qualitative assessment indicated that it was more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit exceeded its carrying value, resulting in no impairment. During each of the second, third and fourth quarters of 2020, management determined that the deterioration in general economic conditions as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and responses thereto represented a triggering event prompting an evaluation of goodwill impairment. Based on the qualitative analysis performed during each of the second, third and fourth quarters of 2020, the Company determined that goodwill was not impaired. Management continues to monitor economic factors to evaluate goodwill impairment.
Acquired Intangible Assets
The following table shows the balance of acquired intangible assets as of December 31, 2020 and 2019.
During 2019, Park announced its 2020 rebranding initiative to operate all 12 banking divisions of PNB under one name. The NewDominion trade name intangible was initially recorded assuming an indefinite useful life. Considering Park's rebranding initiative, Park concluded that the trade name intangible represented a definite life asset, and impairment was recorded during 2019.
Core deposit intangibles are being amortized, on an accelerated basis, over a period of ten years. Amortization expense for the core deposit intangibles was $2.3 million, $2.4 million and $0.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
The following is a schedule of estimated amortization expense for each of the next five years:
9. Loans Held for Sale
Mortgage loans held for sale are carried at their fair value. Mortgage loans held for sale were $31.7 million and $12.3 million at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. These amounts are included in "Loans" on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and in the residential real estate loan segments in Note 6 - Loans and Note 7 - Allowance for Loan Losses. The contractual balance was $30.9 million and $12.1 million at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The gain expected upon sale was $753,000 and $153,000 at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. None of these loans were 90 days or more past due or on nonaccrual status as of December 31, 2020 or 2019.
During 2020, Park transferred a non-performing loan held for investment, with a book balance of $4.4 million, to the loans held for sale portfolio, and subsequently completed the sale of this non-performing loan held for sale, recognizing no gain or loss on sale. During 2018, Park transferred certain non-performing loans held for investment, with a book balance of $174,000, to the loans held for sale portfolio, and subsequently completed the sale of these non-performing loans held for sale, recognizing a net gain on sale of $2.8 million. No non-performing loans were held for sale or sold during 2019.
10. Foreclosed and Repossessed Assets
Park typically transfers a loan to OREO at the time that Park takes deed/title to the real estate property asset. The carrying amount of foreclosed properties held at December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 are listed below, as well as the recorded investment of loans secured by residential real estate properties for which formal foreclosure proceedings were in process at those dates.
In addition to real estate, Park may also repossess different types of collateral. As of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, Park had $3.6 million and $4.2 million in other repossessed assets which are included in "Other assets" on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. For both periods presented, the other repossessed assets largely consisted of an aircraft acquired as part of a loan workout.
11. Premises and Equipment
The major categories of premises and equipment and accumulated depreciation are summarized as follows:
Depreciation expense amounted to $10.8 million, $9.1 million and $8.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
Park records leased assets where Park acts as the lessor within "Other assets" on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Equipment subject to lease agreements at December 31, 2020 and 2019 is summarized below:
Depreciation expense on operating lease assets of $1.8 million, $1.3 million, and $26,000 was recorded for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
12. Investments in Qualified Affordable Housing
Park makes certain equity investments in various limited partnerships that sponsor affordable housing projects. The purposes of these investments are to achieve a satisfactory return on capital, help create affordable housing opportunities, and assist the Company to achieve its goals associated with the Community Reinvestment Act.
As permitted by ASU 2014-01, Accounting for Investments in Qualified Affordable Housing Projects, Park has elected the proportional amortization method of accounting. Under the proportional amortization method, amortization expense and tax benefits are recognized through the provision for income taxes.
The table below details the balances of Park’s affordable housing tax credit investments and related unfunded commitments as of December 31, 2020 and 2019.
Commitments are funded when capital calls are made by the general partner. Park expects that the commitments as of December 31, 2020 will be funded between 2021 and 2031.
During the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, Park recognized amortization expense of $7.0 million, $6.9 million and $7.3 million, respectively, which was included within the provision for income taxes. For the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, Park recognized tax credits and other benefits from its affordable housing tax credit investments of $8.7 million, $8.8 million and $9.0 million, respectively.
13. Deposits
At December 31, 2020 and 2019, non-interest bearing and interest bearing deposits were as follows:
At December 31, 2020, the maturities of time deposits were as follows:
At December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, Park had approximately $20.2 million and $17.7 million of deposits received from Park's executive officers, Park directors and related entities of Park directors.
Time deposits that meet or exceed the FDIC insurance limit of $250,000 at December 31, 2020 and 2019 were $77.2 million and $96.0 million, respectively.
14. Repurchase Agreement Borrowings
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase ("repurchase agreements") with customers represent funds deposited by customers, generally on an overnight basis, that are collateralized by investment securities owned by Park. Repurchase agreements with customers are included in short-term borrowings on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
All repurchase agreements are subject to terms and conditions of repurchase/security agreements between Park and the client and are accounted for as secured borrowings. Park's repurchase agreements consisted of customer accounts and securities which are pledged on an individual security basis.
At December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, Park's repurchase agreement borrowings totaled $317 million and $176 million, respectively. These borrowings were collateralized with U.S. government and agency securities with a fair value of $366 million and $200 million at December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. Declines in the value of the collateral would require Park to pledge additional securities. As of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, Park had $439 million and $756 million, respectively, of available unpledged securities.
The following table presents the carrying value of Park's repurchase agreement borrowings by remaining contractual maturity and collateral pledged at December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019:
See Note 15 - Short-Term Borrowings for additional information related to repurchase agreements.
15. Short-Term Borrowings
Short-term borrowings were as follows:
The outstanding balances for all short-term borrowings as of December 31, 2020 and 2019 and the weighted-average interest rates as of and paid during each of the years then ended were as follows:
During 2019 and 2020, outstanding FHLB advances were collateralized by investment securities owned by PNB and by various loans pledged under a blanket agreement by PNB. At December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, $14 million and $18 million, respectively, of investment securities were pledged as collateral for FHLB advances. At December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, $1,521 million and $1,566 million, respectively, of commercial real estate and residential mortgage loans were pledged
under a blanket agreement to the FHLB by PNB. See Note 14 - Repurchase Agreement Borrowings for information related to investment securities collateralizing repurchase agreements.
16. Long-Term Debt
Long-term debt is listed below:
Park had no long-term debt at December 31, 2020 with a contractual maturity longer than five years.
On February 18, 2020, Park prepaid $50 million of FHLB advances, incurring a $1.8 million prepayment penalty recognized within "FHLB prepayment penalty" on the Consolidated Statement of Income for the year ended December 31, 2020. These advances had an average interest rate of 3.01% and maturity dates of March 14, 2022 and September 15, 2022.
On December 3, 2020, Park prepaid $100 million of FHLB advances, incurring an $8.7 million prepayment penalty recognized within "FHLB prepayment penalty" on the Consolidated Statement of Income for the year ended December 31, 2020. These advances had an interest rate of 3.40% and a maturity date of December 1, 2023.
At December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, FHLB advances were collateralized by investment securities owned by PNB and by various loans pledged under a blanket agreement by PNB. At December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, $14 million and $18 million, respectively, of investment securities were pledged as collateral for FHLB advances. At December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, $1,521 million and $1,566 million, respectively, of commercial real estate and residential mortgage loans were pledged under a blanket agreement to the FHLB by PNB.
On June 20, 2019, Park issued a $50 million term note to U.S. Bank National Association. This term note has a maturity date of June 21, 2022 and accrues interest at a floating rate of one-month LIBOR plus 1.65%. As of December 31, 2020, Park was in compliance with the covenants in the credit agreement related to the term note.
17. Subordinated Notes
As part of the acquisition of Vision's parent bank holding company ("Vision Parent") on March 9, 2007, Park became the successor to Vision Parent under (i) the Amended and Restated Trust Agreement of Vision Bancshares Trust I (the “Trust”), dated as of December 5, 2005, (ii) the Junior Subordinated Indenture, dated as of December 5, 2005, and (iii) the Guarantee Agreement, also dated as of December 5, 2005.
On December 1, 2005, Vision Parent formed a wholly-owned Delaware statutory business trust, Vision Bancshares Trust I (“Trust I”), which issued $15.0 million of Trust I's floating rate preferred securities (the “Trust Preferred Securities”) to institutional investors. These Trust Preferred Securities qualify as Tier I capital under FRB guidelines. All of the common securities of Trust I are owned by Park. The proceeds from the issuance of the common securities and the Trust Preferred Securities were used by Trust I to purchase $15.5 million of junior subordinated notes, which carry a floating rate based on three-month LIBOR plus 148 basis points. The junior subordinated notes represent the sole asset of Trust I. The Trust Preferred Securities accrue and pay distributions at a floating rate of three-month LIBOR plus 148 basis points per annum. The Trust Preferred Securities are mandatorily redeemable upon maturity of the junior subordinated notes in December 2035, or upon earlier redemption as provided in the junior subordinated notes. Since December 30, 2010, Park has had the right to redeem the junior subordinated notes purchased by Trust I in whole or in part. As specified in the indenture, if the junior subordinated notes are redeemed prior to maturity, the redemption price will be the principal amount, plus any unpaid accrued interest. In accordance with U.S. GAAP, Trust I is not consolidated with Park’s financial statements, but rather the subordinated notes are reflected as a liability.
On August 20, 2020, Park completed the issuance and sale of $175 million aggregate principal amount of its 4.50% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Subordinated Notes due 2030 (the "Subordinated Notes"). The Subordinated Notes initially bear a fixed interest rate of 4.50% per year, payable semi-annually in arrears on March 1 and September 1 of each year, commencing on March 1, 2021. Commencing on September 1, 2025, the Subordinated Notes will bear interest at a floating rate per annum equal to the Benchmark rate, which is expected to be Three-Month Term SOFR, plus a spread of 439 basis points for each quarterly interest period during the floating rate period, payable quarterly in arrears; provided, however, that if the Benchmark rate is less than zero, then the Benchmark rate shall be deemed to be zero. The Company may, at its option, beginning with the interest payment date of September 1, 2025 and on any interest payment date thereafter, redeem the Subordinated Notes, in whole or in part, from time to time, subject to obtaining the prior approval of the holders of the Company’s senior indebtedness and of the Federal Reserve Board to the extent the approval of the Federal Reserve Board is then required under the capital adequacy rules of the Federal Reserve Board, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Subordinated Notes being redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon to but excluding the date of redemption. The issuance costs of the Subordinated Notes totaled $2.4 million, which is being amortized through the Subordinated Note call date. The Subordinated Notes, net of unamortized issuance costs, totaled $172.8 million at December 31, 2020, and qualifies as Tier 2 capital for Park under the Federal Reserve Board capital adequacy rules.
18. Derivatives
Park uses certain derivative financial instruments (or "derivatives") to meet the needs of its clients while managing the interest
rate risk associated with certain transactions. Park does not use derivatives for speculative purposes. A summary of derivative
instruments utilized by Park follows.
Interest Rate Swaps
Park utilizes interest rate swap agreements as part of its asset liability management strategy to help manage its interest rate risk
position and as a means to meet the financing, interest rate and other risk management needs of qualifying commercial banking
customers. The notional amount of the interest rate swaps does not represent the amount exchanged by the parties. The amount
exchanged is determined by reference to the notional amount and the other terms of the individual interest rate swap
agreements.
Borrowing Derivatives: Interest rate swaps with notional amounts totaling $25.0 million at both December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 were designated as cash flow hedges of certain FHLB advances.
Loan Derivatives: In conjunction with the Carolina Alliance acquisition, Park acquired interest rate swaps related to certain commercial loans. These interest rate swaps were simultaneously hedged by offsetting interest rate swaps that Carolina Alliance executed with a third party, such that Carolina Alliance minimized its net interest rate risk exposure resulting from such transactions. These interest rate swaps had a notional amount totaling $33.3 million and $35.5 million as of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively.
All of the Company's interest rate swaps were determined to be fully effective during the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019. As such, no amount of ineffectiveness has been included in net income. Therefore, the aggregate fair value of the swaps
is recorded in other assets and other liabilities with changes in fair value recorded in other comprehensive income. The amount included in accumulated other comprehensive income would be reclassified to current earnings should the hedges no longer be considered effective. Park expects the hedges to remain fully effective during the remaining respective terms of the swaps.
Summary information about Park's interest rate swaps as of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 was as follows:
Interest expense recorded on swap transactions was $423,000 and $42,000 for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. No interest income or expense related to swap transactions was recorded during the year ended December 31, 2018.
Interest Rate Swaps
The following table presents the net gains (losses), net of income taxes, recorded in AOCI and the Consolidated Statements of Income related to interest rate swaps for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018.
The following table reflects the interest rate swaps included in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2020 and 2019.
Mortgage Banking Derivatives
Commitments to fund mortgage loans (interest rate locks) to be sold into the secondary market and forward commitments for
the future delivery of these mortgage loans are accounted for as free standing derivatives. In order to hedge the change in
interest rates resulting from its commitments to fund the loans, the Company enters into forward commitments for the future
delivery of mortgage loans when interest rate locks are entered into. These mortgage banking derivatives are not designated in
hedge relationships. The fair value of the interest rate lock is recorded at the time the commitment to fund the mortgage loan is
executed and is adjusted for the expected exercise of the commitment before the loan is funded. Fair values of these mortgage
banking derivatives are estimated based on changes in mortgage interest rates from the date the interest on the loan is locked.
Changes in the fair values of these derivatives are included in "Other service income" in the Consolidated Statements of Income.
At December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, Park had $58.2 million and $15.9 million, respectively, of interest rate lock commitments. The fair value of these mortgage banking derivatives was reflected by a derivative asset of $1.5 million and $221,000 at December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively.
Other Derivatives
In connection with the sale of Park’s Class B Visa shares during 2009, Park entered into a swap agreement with the purchaser of the shares. The swap agreement adjusts for dilution in the conversion ratio of Class B Visa shares resulting from certain Visa litigation. At both December 31, 2020 and 2019, the fair value of the swap liability of $226,000 was an estimate of the exposure based upon probability-weighted potential Visa litigation losses.
19. Share-Based Compensation
The Park National Corporation 2013 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the "2013 Incentive Plan") was adopted by the Board of Directors of Park on January 28, 2013 and was approved by Park's shareholders at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders on April 22, 2013. The 2013 Incentive Plan made equity-based awards and cash-based awards available for grant to participants (who could have been employees or non-employee directors) in the form of incentive stock options, nonqualified stock options, SARs, restricted common shares (“Restricted Stock”), restricted stock unit awards that may be settled in common shares, cash or a combination of the two (“Restricted Stock Units”), unrestricted common shares (“Other Stock-Based Awards”) and cash-based awards. Under the 2013 Incentive Plan, 600,000 common shares were authorized to be delivered in connection with grants under the 2013 Incentive Plan. The common shares to be delivered under the 2013 Incentive Plan are to consist of either common shares currently held or common shares subsequently acquired by Park as treasury shares, including common shares purchased in the open market or in private transactions. At December 31, 2020, there were 18,695 common shares subject to unvested PBRSUs issued under the 2013 Incentive Plan, which represented the only awards outstanding under the 2013 Incentive Plan.
The Park National Corporation 2017 Long-Term Incentive Plan for Employees (the "2017 Employees LTIP") was adopted by the Board of Directors of Park on January 23, 2017 and was approved by Park's shareholders at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders on April 24, 2017. The 2017 Employees LTIP makes equity-based awards and cash-based awards available for grant to employee participants in the form of incentive stock options, nonqualified stock options, SARs, Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Units, Other Stock-Based Awards and cash-based awards. Under the 2017 Employees LTIP, 750,000 common shares are authorized to be delivered in connection with grants under the 2017 Employees LTIP. The common shares to be delivered under the 2017 Employees LTIP are to consist of either common shares currently held or common shares subsequently acquired by Park as treasury shares, including common shares purchased in the open market or in private transactions. At December 31, 2020, 525,000 common shares were available for future grants under the 2017 Employee LTIP.
The Park National Corporation 2017 Long-Term Incentive Plan for Non-Employee Directors (the "2017 Non-Employee Directors LTIP") was adopted by the Board of Directors of Park on January 23, 2017 and was approved by Park's shareholders at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders on April 24, 2017. The 2017 Non-Employee Directors LTIP makes equity-based awards and cash-based awards available for grant to non-employee director participants in the form of nonqualified stock options, SARs, Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Units, Other Stock-Based Awards, and cash-based awards. Under the 2017 Non-Employee Directors LTIP, 150,000 common shares are authorized to be delivered in connection with grants under the 2017 Non-Employee Directors LTIP. The common shares to be delivered under the 2017 Non-Employee Directors LTIP are to consist of either common shares currently held or common shares subsequently acquired by Park as treasury shares, including common shares purchased in the open market or in private transactions. At December 31, 2020, 100,250 common shares were available for future grants under the 2017 Non-Employee Directors LTIP.
The 2017 Employees LTIP and the 2017 Non-Employee Directors LTIP have replaced the provisions of the 2013 Incentive Plan with respect to the grant of future awards. As a result of the approval of the 2017 Employees LTIP and the 2017 Non-Employee Directors LTIP, Park has not granted and will not grant any additional awards under the 2013 Incentive Plan after April 24, 2017. Awards made under the 2013 Incentive Plan prior to April 24, 2017 will remain in effect in accordance with their respective terms.
During 2020, 2019 and 2018, Park granted 13,450, 13,500 and 11,650 common shares, respectively, to directors of Park and to directors of PNB (and its divisions) under the 2017 Non-Employee Directors LTIP. The common shares granted to directors were not subject to a vesting period and resulted in expense of $1.3 million, $1.3 million, and $1.1 million in 2020, 2019, and 2018, respectively, which is included in professional fees and services on the Consolidated Statements of Income.
During 2020, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of Park granted awards of PBRSUs, under the 2017 Employees LTIP, covering an aggregate of 62,265 common shares to certain employees of Park and its subsidiaries. During 2019, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of Park granted awards of PBRSUs, under the 2017 Employees LTIP, covering an aggregate of 58,740 of common shares to certain employees of Park and its subsidiaries. Additionally, during 2019, Park granted awards of TBRSUs, under the 2017 Employees LTIP, covering an aggregate of 15,700 shares to Carolina Alliance Division employees. During 2018, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of Park granted awards of PBRSUs covering an aggregate of 48,053 common shares, under the 2017 Employees LTIP, to certain employees of Park and its subsidiaries. Additionally, during 2018, Park granted 13,637 TBRSUs to certain NewDominion Division employees. The number of PBRSUs earned or settled will depend on the level of achievement with respect to certain performance criteria and are also subject to subsequent service-based vesting. The number of TBRSUs earned or settled are subject to service-based vesting.
A summary of changes in the common shares subject to nonvested PBRSUs and TBRSUs for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 follows:
(1) The number of PBRSUs earned depends on the level of achievement with respect to certain performance criteria. Adjustment herein represents the difference between the maximum number of common shares which could be earned and the actual number earned for those PBRSUs as to which the performance period was completed.
(2) Nonvested amount herein represents the maximum number of nonvested PBRSUs and TBRSUs. As of December 31, 2020, an aggregate of 186,331 PBRSUs and TBRSUs are expected to vest.
During the year ended December 31, 2020, an aggregate of 7,705 of the TBRSUs granted in 2018 and 2019 vested in full due to the satisfaction of the service-based vesting requirement. A total of 2,392 common shares were withheld to satisfy employee income tax obligations. This resulted in a net number of 5,313 common shares being issued to employees of Park. Additionally, during the year ended December 31, 2020, an aggregate of 36,674 of the PBRSUs granted in 2016 and 2017 vested in full due to the level of achievement with respect to certain performance criteria and the satisfaction of the service-based vesting requirement. A total of 11,646 common shares were withheld to satisfy employee income tax withholding obligations. This resulted in a net number of 25,028 common shares being issued to employees of Park.
During the three months ended March 31, 2019, 27,719 PBRSUs granted in 2015 and 2016 vested in full due to the level of achievement with respect to certain performance criteria and the satisfaction of the service-based vesting requirement. A total of 8,736 common shares were withheld to pay employee income taxes. This resulted in a net number of 18,983 common shares being issued to employees of Park.
Share-based compensation expense of $6.0 million, $5.0 million and $4.0 million was recognized for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively, related to PBRSU and TBRSU awards to employees. The following table details expected additional share-based compensation expense related to PBRSUs and TBRSUs currently outstanding:
20. Benefit Plans
The Corporation has a noncontributory Defined Benefit Pension Plan (the “Pension Plan”) covering substantially all of the employees of the Corporation and its subsidiaries. The Pension Plan provides benefits based on an employee’s years of service and compensation.
There was no pension contribution in 2020 or 2019 and there is no contribution expected to be made in 2021.
Using accrual measurement dates of December 31, 2020 and 2019, plan assets and benefit obligation activity for the Pension Plan are listed below:
The increase in the projected benefit obligation ("PBO") from $154.4 million as of December 31, 2019 to $184.4 million as of December 31, 2020, was largely the result of a decrease in the discount rate from 3.53% to 3.00%. Additionally, the PBO increased due to updated assumptions for withdrawal rates, retirement rates, optional payment form elections, and salary increases as well as assumptions for lump sum determinations. These losses were partially offset by the adoption of the MP 2020 mortality projection scale.
The asset allocation for the Pension Plan as of each measurement date, by asset category, was as follows:
The investment policy, as established by the Retirement Plan Committee, is to invest assets according to the target allocation stated above. Assets will be reallocated periodically based on the investment strategy of the Retirement Plan Committee. The investment policy is reviewed periodically.
The expected long-term rate of return on plan assets used to measure the benefit obligation was 7.00% at both December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019. This return was based on the expected long-term return of each of the asset categories, weighted based on the median of the target allocation for each class.
The accumulated benefit obligation for the Pension Plan was $149.5 million and $129.3 million at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
On November 17, 2009, the Park Pension Plan completed the purchase of 115,800 common shares of Park for $7.0 million or $60.45 per share. At December 31, 2020 and 2019, the fair value of the 115,800 common shares held by the Pension Plan was $12.2 million, or $105.01 per share and $11.9 million, or $102.38 per share, respectively.
The weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 were as follows:
The estimated future pension benefit payments reflecting expected future service for the next ten years are shown below (in thousands):
The following table shows ending balances of accumulated other comprehensive loss at December 31, 2020 and 2019.
Using actuarial measurement dates of December 31 for 2020, 2019 and 2018, components of net periodic benefit income and other amounts recognized in other comprehensive income were as follows:
There are $16,000 in estimated prior service costs for the Pension Plan to be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive loss into net periodic benefit cost over the next year. The estimated net actuarial loss expected to be recognized in the next year is $2.2 million.
The weighted average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit income (loss) for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 are listed below:
The Pension Plan maintains cash in a PNB savings account. The Pension Plan cash balance was $2.5 million at December 31, 2020.
U.S. GAAP defines fair value as the price that would be received by Park for an asset or paid by Park to transfer a liability (an exit price) in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date, using the most advantageous market for the asset or liability. The fair values of equity securities, consisting of mutual fund investments and common stock (U.S. large cap) held by the Pension Plan and the fixed income and cash equivalents, are determined by obtaining quoted prices on nationally recognized securities exchanges (Level 1 inputs). The fair value of Pension Plan assets at December 31, 2020 was $230.4 million. At December 31, 2020, $195.0 million of equity investments and cash in the Pension Plan were categorized as Level 1 inputs; $35.4 million of Pension Plan investments in corporate (U.S. large cap), U.S. Government sponsored entity bonds and marketable CDs were categorized as Level 2 inputs, as fair value was based on quoted market prices of comparable instruments; and no investments were categorized as Level 3 inputs. The fair value of Pension Plan assets was $210.6 million at December 31, 2019. At December 31, 2019, $180.0 million of investments in the Pension Plan were categorized as Level 1 inputs; $30.6 million were categorized as Level 2; and no investments were categorized as Level 3.
Salary Deferral Plan
The Corporation has a voluntary salary deferral plan (the Corporation's Employees Stock Ownership Plan) covering substantially all of the employees of the Corporation and its subsidiaries. Eligible employees may contribute a portion of their compensation subject to a maximum statutory limitation. The Corporation provides a matching contribution established annually by the Corporation. Contribution expense for the Corporation was $4.2 million, $3.9 million, and $3.0 million for 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan
The Corporation has entered into Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan Agreements (the "SERP Agreements") with certain key officers of the Corporation and its subsidiaries which provide defined pension benefits in excess of limits imposed by federal income tax law. The accrued benefit cost for the SERP Agreements totaled $12.3 million and $11.0 million for 2020 and 2019, respectively. The expense for the Corporation was $2.1 million for 2020, $1.3 million for 2019 and $1.0 million for 2018.
21. Income Taxes
Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. Significant components of the Corporation’s deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows:
As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, Park had a net deferred tax asset balance related to federal NOL carryforwards of approximately $3.1 million and $3.5 million, respectively, which expire at various dates from 2031-2039. Park also had a net deferred tax asset balance related to state NOL carryforwards of approximately $0.5 million and $0.6 million at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, which expire at various dates from 2030-2039.
Park performs an analysis to determine if a valuation allowance against deferred tax assets is required in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Management determined that it was not required to establish a valuation allowance against the December 31, 2020 or 2019 deferred tax assets in accordance with U.S. GAAP since it was more likely than not that the deferred tax asset will be fully utilized in future periods.
The components of the provision for federal income taxes are shown below:
The following is a reconciliation of income tax expense to the amount computed at the statutory federal corporate income tax rate of 21% for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018.
Park and its subsidiaries do not pay state income tax to the state of Ohio, but pay a franchise tax based on equity. The franchise tax expense is included in "State tax expense" on Park’s Consolidated Statements of Income. Park is also subject to state income tax in various states, including North Carolina and South Carolina. State income tax expense is included in “Income taxes” on Park’s Consolidated Statements of Income. Park’s state income tax expense was $1.1 million and $1.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
Unrecognized Tax Benefits
The following is a reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits.
The amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would favorably affect the effective income tax rate in the future periods at December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 was $0.6 million, $0.9 million and $1.1 million, respectively. Park does not expect the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits to significantly increase or decrease during the next year.
The income (expense) related to interest and penalties recorded on unrecognized tax benefits in the Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018 was $35,000, $7,500, and $(79,500), respectively. The amount accrued for interest and penalties at December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 was $111,000, $146,000 and $153,500, respectively.
Park and its subsidiaries are subject to U.S. federal income tax and income tax in various state jurisdictions. The Corporation is subject to routine audits of tax returns by the Internal Revenue Service and states in which we conduct business. No material adjustments have been made on closed federal and state tax audits. Generally, all tax years ended prior to December 31, 2017 are closed to examination by federal and state taxing authorities.
22. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Other comprehensive income (loss) components, net of income tax, are shown in the following table for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018.
(1) During the year ended December 31, 2019, Park transferred HTM securities with a fair value of $373.9 million to AFS classification. The transfer occurred at fair value and had a related unrealized gain of $24.2 million ($19.1 million net of taxes), recorded in other comprehensive income.
The following table provides information concerning amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018:
23. Earnings Per Common Share
U.S. GAAP requires the reporting of basic and diluted earnings per common share. Basic earnings per common share excludes any dilutive effects of PBRSUs and TBRSUs.
The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per common share:
Park awarded 62,265, 58,740 and 48,053 PBRSUs to certain employees during the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively. Park awarded 15,700 TBRSUs to Carolina Alliance Division employees during the year ended December 31, 2019 and awarded 13,637 TBRSUs to NewDominion Division employees during the year ended December 31, 2018.
On April 1, 2019, Park issued 1,037,205 common shares to complete its acquisition of Carolina Alliance. On July 1, 2018, Park issued 435,457 common shares to complete its acquisition of NewDominion. These common shares are included in average common shares outstanding beginning on those dates.
During the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, Park repurchased 76,000, 86,650 and 50,000 common shares, respectively, to fund the PBRSUs, TBRSUs and common shares awarded to directors of Park and to directors of PNB (and its divisions) and repurchased 334,603 common shares during the year ended December 31, 2019 pursuant to Park's previously announced stock repurchase authorizations.
24. Dividend Restrictions
Bank regulators limit the amount of dividends a subsidiary bank can declare in any calendar year without obtaining prior approval. At December 31, 2020, approximately $101.8 million of the total shareholders’ equity of PNB was available for the payment of dividends to the Corporation, without approval by the applicable regulatory authorities.
25. Financial Instruments with Off-Balance Sheet Risk and Financial Instruments with Concentrations of Credit Risk
The Corporation is party to financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of its customers. These financial instruments include loan commitments and standby letters of credit. The instruments involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit and interest rate risk in excess of the amount recognized in the consolidated financial statements.
The Corporation’s exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the other party to the financial instrument for loan commitments and standby letters of credit is represented by the contractual amount of those instruments. The Corporation uses the same credit policies in making commitments and conditional obligations as it does for on-balance sheet instruments. Since many of the loan commitments may expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amount does not necessarily represent future cash requirements. The credit risk involved in issuing letters of credit is essentially the same as that involved in extending loan commitments to customers.
The total amounts of off-balance sheet financial instruments with credit risk were as follows:
The loan commitments are generally for variable rates of interest.
The Corporation grants retail, commercial and commercial real estate loans to customers primarily located in Ohio, Kentucky, North Carolina and South Carolina with the exception of nationwide aircraft loans and nationwide asset-based lending to consumer finance companies. The Corporation evaluates each customer’s creditworthiness on a case-by-case basis. The amount of collateral obtained, if deemed necessary by the Corporation upon the extension of credit, is based on management’s credit evaluation of the customer. Collateral held varies but may include accounts receivable, inventory, property, plant and equipment, and real estate.
Although the Corporation has a diversified loan portfolio, a substantial portion of the borrowers’ ability to honor their contracts is dependent upon the economic conditions the borrowers' respective geographic locations and industries.
26. Loan Servicing
Park serviced sold mortgage loans of $1,972 million at December 31, 2020, compared to $1,447 million at December 31, 2019 and $1,389 million at December 31, 2018. At December 31, 2020, $1.7 million of the sold mortgage loans were sold with recourse compared to $2.3 million at December 31, 2019 and $2.5 million at December 31, 2018. Management closely monitors the delinquency rates on the mortgage loans sold with recourse. As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, management had established a reserve of $30,000 and $25,000, respectively, to account for future loan repurchases.
When Park sells mortgage loans with servicing rights retained, servicing rights are initially recorded at fair value. Park selected the “amortization method” as permissible within U.S. GAAP, whereby the servicing rights capitalized are amortized in proportion to and over the period of estimated future servicing income of the underlying loan. At the end of each reporting period, the carrying value of MSRs is assessed for impairment with a comparison to fair value. MSRs are carried at the lower of their amortized cost or fair value. The amortization of MSRs is included within other service income in the Consolidated Statements of Income.
Activity for MSRs and the related valuation allowance follows:
The fair value of MSRs was $12.2 million and $10.1 million at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The fair value of MSRs at December 31, 2020 was established using a discount rate of 12% and constant prepayment speeds ranging from 13.20% to 27.54%. The fair value of MSRs at December 31, 2019 was established using a discount rate of 12% and constant prepayment speeds ranging from 6.60% to 18.42%.
Servicing fees included in other service income were $4.1 million, $3.6 million and $3.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
27. Leases
Park is a lessee in several noncancellable operating lease arrangements, primarily for retail branches, administrative and warehouse buildings, ATMs, and certain office equipment within its Ohio, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Kentucky markets. Certain of these leases contain renewal options for periods ranging from one year to five years. Park’s leases generally do not include termination options for either party to the lease or restrictive financial or other covenants. Payments due under the lease contracts include fixed payments plus, for many of Park’s real estate leases, variable payments such as Park's proportionate share of property taxes, insurance, and common area maintenance.
The Company adopted ASU 2016-02, Leases (ASC 842), using the modified retrospective method as of the date of adoption, January 1, 2019, as permitted by the amendments in ASU 2018-11. As a result, the Company was not required to adjust its comparative period financial information for effects of the adoption of the standard or make the new required lease disclosures for periods prior to the effective date. Upon adoption of this accounting guidance on January 1, 2019, Park recorded an initial ROU asset of $11.0 million, and a lease liability of $11.8 million, and reclassified an existing deferred rent liability of $0.6 million. The impact to the Company's retained earnings, net of the tax impact, was $143,000.
Management elected to adopt the package of transition practical expedients and, therefore, has not reassessed (1) whether
existing or expired contracts contain a lease, (2) the lease classification for existing or expired leases or (3) the accounting for
initial direct costs that were previously capitalized. The Company did not elect the practical expedient to use hindsight for
leases existing at the adoption date. Park elected the practical expedient, by class of underlying asset, to not separate non-lease
components from the associated lease components. Additionally, Park has elected not to recognize ROU assets and lease
liabilities for short-term leases that have a lease term of 12 months or less. The Company recognizes the lease payments
associated with its short-term leases as an expense on a cash basis.
Management determines if an arrangement is or contains a lease at contract inception. If an arrangement is determined to be or contain a lease, Park recognizes a ROU asset and a lease liability at the lease commencement date. Leases are classified as operating or finance leases at the lease commencement date. At December 31, 2020 and 2019, all of Park's leases were classified as operating leases.
Park’s lease liability is initially and subsequently measured at the present value of the unpaid lease payments at the lease commencement date. Key estimates and judgments related to the lease liability include how management determines (1) the discount rate it uses to discount the unpaid lease payments to present value, (2) the lease term, and (3) lease payments.
•ASC 842 requires a lessee to discount its unpaid lease payments using the interest rate implicit in the lease or, if that rate cannot be readily determined, its incremental borrowing rate. Generally, management cannot determine the interest rate implicit in the lease because it does not have access to the lessor’s estimated residual value or the amount of the lessor’s deferred initial direct costs. Therefore, Park utilizes its incremental borrowing rate as the discount rate for leases. Park’s incremental borrowing rate for a lease is the rate of interest it would have to pay on a collateralized basis to borrow an amount equal to the lease payments under similar terms. To manage its capital and liquidity needs, Park periodically obtains wholesale funding from the FHLB on an over-collateralized basis. The impact of utilizing an interest rate on an over-collateralized borrowing versus a fully collateralized borrowing is not material. Therefore, the FHLB yield curve was selected by management as a baseline to determine Park’s discount rates for leases.
•The lease term for all of the Company’s leases includes the noncancellable period of the lease plus any additional periods covered by either Park's option to extend (or not to terminate) the lease that the Company is reasonably certain to exercise, or an option to extend (or not to terminate) the lease controlled by the lessor. If a lease contract contains multiple renewal options, management generally models lease cash flows through the first renewal option period unless the contract contains economic incentives or other conditions that increase or decrease the likelihood that additional renewals are reasonably certain to be exercised.
•Lease payments included in the measurement of the lease liability are comprised of the following:
-Fixed payments, including in-substance fixed payments, owed over the lease term;
-For certain of Park's gross real estate leases, non-lease components such as real estate taxes, insurance, and common area maintenance; and
-Variable lease payments that depend on an index or rate, initially measured using the index or rate at the lease commencement date.
The ROU asset is initially measured at cost, which comprises the initial amount of the lease liability adjusted for lease payments
made at or before the lease commencement date, plus any initial direct costs incurred less any lease incentives received. For
operating leases, the ROU asset is subsequently measured throughout the lease term at the carrying amount of the lease liability,
plus initial direct costs, plus (minus) any prepaid (accrued) lease payments, less the unamortized balance of lease incentives
received. Lease expense for lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term.
Park's operating lease ROU asset and lease liability are presented in “Operating lease right-of-use asset" and "Operating lease liability," respectively, on Park's Consolidated Balance Sheets. The carrying amounts of Park's ROU asset and lease liability at December 31, 2020 were $15.1 million and $16.1 million, respectively. At December 31, 2019, the carrying amounts of Park's ROU assets and lease liability were $13.7 million and $14.5 million, respectively. Park's operating lease expense is recorded in "Occupancy expense" on the Company's Consolidated Statements of Income.
Other information related to operating leases for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 follows:
At both December 31, 2020 and 2019, Park's operating leases had a weighted average remaining term of 7.2 years. The weighted average discount rate of Park's operating leases was 2.3% and 3.1% at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
Undiscounted cash flows included in lease liabilities at December 31, 2020 have expected contractual payments as follows:
28. Fair Value
The fair value hierarchy requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. The three levels of inputs that Park uses to measure fair value are as follows:
•Level 1: Quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets that Park has the ability to access as of the measurement date.
•Level 2: Level 1 inputs for assets or liabilities that are not actively traded. Also consists of an observable market price for a similar asset or liability. This includes the use of “matrix pricing” to value debt securities absent the exclusive use of quoted prices.
•Level 3: Consists of unobservable inputs that are used to measure fair value when observable market inputs are not available. This could include the use of internally developed models, financial forecasting and similar inputs.
Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell 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 at the balance sheet date. When possible, the Company looks to active and observable markets to price identical assets or liabilities. When identical assets and liabilities are not traded in active markets, the Company looks to observable market data for similar assets and liabilities. However, certain assets and liabilities are not traded in observable markets and Park must use other valuation methods to develop a fair value. The fair value of impaired loans is typically based on the fair value of the underlying collateral, which is estimated through third-party appraisals in accordance with Park's valuation requirements under its commercial and real estate loan policies.
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis:
The following table presents assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
The following methods and assumptions were used by the Company in determining the fair value of the financial assets and liabilities discussed above:
Interest rate swaps: The fair values of interest rate swaps are based on valuation models using observable market data as of the measurement date (Level 2).
Investment securities: Fair values for investment securities are based on quoted market prices, where available (Level 1). If quoted market prices are not available, fair values are based on quoted market prices of comparable instruments (Level 2).
For securities where quoted prices or market prices of similar securities are not available, fair values are calculated using discounted cash flows (Level 3).
Fair value swap: The fair value of the swap agreement entered into with the purchaser of the Visa Class B shares represents an internally developed estimate of the exposure based upon probability-weighted potential Visa litigation losses.
Mortgage Interest Rate Lock Commitments: Mortgage IRLCs are based on current secondary market pricing and are classified as Level 2.
Mortgage loans held for sale: Mortgage loans held for sale are carried at their fair value. Mortgage loans held for sale are estimated using market prices for similar product types and, therefore, are classified in Level 2.
The table below is a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of the Level 3 inputs for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, for financial instruments measured on a recurring basis and classified as Level 3:
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis:
The following methods and assumptions were used by the Company in determining the fair value of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis as described below:
Impaired Loans: At the time a loan is considered impaired, it is valued at the lower of cost or fair value. Collateral dependent impaired loans carried at fair value have been partially charged-off or receive specific allocations of the allowance for loan losses. For collateral dependent loans, fair value is generally based on real estate appraisals. These appraisals may utilize a single valuation approach or a combination of approaches including the comparable sales approach and the income approach. Adjustments are routinely made in the appraisal process by the independent appraisers to adjust for differences between the comparable sales and income data available. Such adjustments result in a Level 3 classification of the inputs for determining fair value. Collateral is then adjusted or discounted based on management’s historical knowledge, changes in market conditions from the time of the valuation, and management’s expertise and knowledge of the client and the client’s business, resulting in a Level 3 fair value classification. Impaired loans are evaluated on a quarterly basis for additional impairment and adjusted accordingly. Additionally, updated independent valuations are obtained annually for all impaired loans in accordance with Company policy.
OREO: Assets acquired through or in lieu of loan foreclosure are initially recorded at fair value less costs to sell when acquired. The carrying value of OREO is not re-measured to fair value on a recurring basis, but is subject to fair value adjustments when the carrying value exceeds the fair value, less estimated selling costs. Fair value is based on recent real estate appraisals and is updated at least annually. These appraisals may utilize a single valuation approach or a combination of approaches including the comparable sales approach and the income approach. Adjustments are routinely made in the appraisal process by the independent appraisers to adjust for differences between the comparable sales and income data available. Such adjustments result in a Level 3 classification of the inputs for determining fair value.
Appraisals for both collateral dependent impaired loans and OREO are performed by licensed appraisers. Appraisals are generally obtained to support the fair value of collateral. In general, there are three types of appraisals received by the Company: real estate appraisals, income approach appraisals, and lot development loan appraisals. These are discussed below:
•Real estate appraisals typically incorporate measures such as recent sales prices for comparable properties. Appraisers may make adjustments to the sales prices of the comparable properties as deemed appropriate based on the age, condition or general characteristics of the subject property. Management generally applies a 15% discount to real estate appraised values which management expects will cover all disposition costs (including selling costs). This 15% discount is based on historical discounts to appraised values on sold OREO properties.
•Income approach appraisals typically incorporate the annual net operating income of the business divided by an appropriate capitalization rate, as determined by the appraiser. Management generally applies a 15% discount to income approach appraised values which management expects will cover all disposition costs (including selling costs).
•Lot development loan appraisals are typically performed using a discounted cash flow analysis. Appraisers determine an anticipated absorption period and a discount rate that takes into account an investor’s required rate of return based on recent comparable sales. Management generally applies a 6% discount to lot development appraised values, which is an additional discount above the net present value calculation included in the appraisal, to account for selling costs.
Other repossessed assets: Other repossessed assets are initially recorded at fair value less costs to sell when acquired. The carrying value of other repossessed assets is not re-measured to fair value on a recurring basis, but is subject to fair value adjustments when the carrying value exceeds the fair value, less estimated selling costs. As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, other repossessed assets primarily consisted of aircraft acquired as part of a loan workout. Fair value is based on Aircraft Bluebook and VREF Aircraft Value Reference values based on the model of aircraft and adjustments for flight hours, features and other variables. Such adjustments result in a Level 3 classification of the inputs for determining fair value.
MSRs: MSRs are carried at the lower of cost or fair value. MSRs do not trade in active, open markets with readily observable prices. For example, sales of MSRs do occur, but precise terms and conditions typically are not readily available. As such, management, with the assistance of a third-party specialist, determines fair value based on the discounted value of the future cash flows estimated to be received. Significant inputs include the discount rate and assumed prepayment speeds. The calculated fair value is then compared to market values where possible to ascertain the reasonableness of the valuation in relation to current market expectations for similar products. Accordingly, MSRs are classified as Level 2.
The following tables present assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. Collateral dependent impaired loans are carried at fair value if they have been charged down to fair value or if a specific valuation allowance has been established. As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, there were no PCI loans carried at fair value. A new cost basis is established at the time a property is initially recorded in OREO. OREO properties are carried at fair value if a devaluation has been taken with respect to the property's value subsequent to the initial measurement.
The table below provides additional detail on those impaired loans which are recorded at fair value as well as the remaining impaired loan portfolio not included above. The remaining impaired loans consist of loans which are not collateral dependent as well as loans carried at cost as the fair value of the underlying collateral or the present value of expected future cash flows on each of the loans exceeded the book value for each respective credit.
The expense from credit adjustments related to impaired loans carried at fair value for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 was $4.7 million, $0.2 million, and $0.4 million, respectively.
MSRs totaled $12.2 million at December 31, 2020. Of this $12.2 million MSR carrying balance, $12.2 million was recorded at fair value and included a valuation allowance of $3.2 million. The remaining $31,000 was recorded at cost, as the fair value exceeded cost at December 31, 2020. At December 31, 2019, MSRs totaled $10.1 million. Of this $10.1 million MSR carrying balance, $5.8 million was recorded at fair value and included a valuation allowance of $0.8 million. The remaining $4.3 million was recorded at cost, as the fair value exceeded cost at December 31, 2019. The (expense) income related to MSRs carried at fair value for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 was $(2.4) million, $(0.6) million and $0.4 million, respectively.
Total OREO held by Park at December 31, 2020 and 2019 was $1.4 million and $4.0 million, respectively. Approximately 51% and 75% of OREO held by Park at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, was carried at fair value due to fair value adjustments made subsequent to the initial OREO measurement. At December 31, 2020 and 2019, OREO held at fair value, less estimated selling costs, amounted to $735,000 and $3.0 million, respectively. The net income (expense) related to OREO
fair value adjustments was $0.1 million, $(0.2) million and $(0.5) million for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
Other repossessed assets totaled $3.6 million at December 31, 2020, of which $3.2 million were recorded at fair value. Other repossessed asset totaled $4.2 million at December 31, 2019, of which $3.6 million were recorded at fair value. The net expense related to other repossessed asset fair value adjustments was $435,000 for the year ended December 31, 2020. There was no expense related to fair value adjustments on other repossessed assets for the year ended December 31, 2019. The net expense related to other repossessed asset fair value adjustments was $269,000 for the year ended December 31, 2018.
The following tables present quantitative information about Level 3 fair value measurements for financial instruments measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis at December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019:
Assets Measured at Net Asset Value:
Park's portfolio of equity investments in limited partnerships which provide mezzanine funding ("Partnership Investments") are
valued using the NAV practical expedient in accordance with ASC 820.
As of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, Park had Partnerships Investments with a NAV of $15.4 million and $11.9 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, Park had $6.2 million and $8.5 million in unfunded commitments related to these Partnership Investments. For the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, Park recognized income of $2.4 million, $4.8 million and $1.4 million, respectively, related to these Partnership Investments.
The fair value of financial instruments at December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, was as follows:
(1) Includes AFS debt securities.
(2) Excludes FHLB stock and FRB stock which are carried at their respective redemption values, investment securities accounted for at modified cost as these investments do not have a readily determinable fair value, and Partnership Investments valued using the NAV practical expedient.
(1) Includes AFS debt securities and HTM debt securities.
(2) Excludes FHLB stock and FRB stock which are carried at their respective redemption values, investment securities accounted for at modified cost as these investments do not have a readily determinable fair value, and Partnership Investments valued using the NAV practical expedient.
29. Capital Ratios
Financial institution regulators have established guidelines for minimum capital ratios for banks, thrifts and bank holding companies. During the first quarter of 2015, Park adopted the Basel III regulatory capital framework as approved by the federal banking agencies. The adoption of this framework modified the calculation of the various capital ratios, added an additional ratio, common equity tier 1, and revised the adequately and well-capitalized thresholds under the prompt corrective action regulations applicable to PNB. Additionally, under this framework, in order to avoid limitations on capital distributions, including dividend payments and stock repurchases, Park must hold a capital conservation buffer above the adequately capitalized risk-based capital ratios. The capital conservation buffer was fully phased in at 2.50% on January 1, 2019. The following amount shown as the adequately capitalized ratio plus the capital conservation buffer includes the 2.50% buffer. The Federal Reserve Board also adopted requirements Park must maintain to be deemed "well-capitalized" and to remain a financial holding company.
Each of PNB and Park met all of the well-capitalized ratio guidelines applicable to it at December 31, 2020. The following table indicates the capital ratios for PNB and Park at December 31, 2020 and 2019.
The following table reflects various measures of capital for Park and PNB:
30. Segment Information
The Corporation is a financial holding company headquartered in Newark, Ohio. The operating segments for the Corporation are PNB and GFSC. "All Other", which primarily consists of Park as the "Parent Company" and SEPH, is shown to reconcile the segment totals to the consolidated statements of income.
U.S. GAAP requires management to disclose information about the different types of business activities in which a company engages and also information on the different economic environments in which a company operates, so that the users of the financial statements can better understand a company’s performance, better understand the potential for future cash flows, and make more informed judgments about the company as a whole. Park’s current operating segments are in line with U.S. GAAP as: (i) discrete financial information is available for each operating segment and (ii) the segments are aligned with internal reporting to Park’s Chief Executive Officer, who is the chief operating decision-maker.
The operating results in the "All Other" column are used to reconcile the segment totals to the Consolidated Statements of Income. The reconciling amounts for consolidated total assets, loans and deposits consist of the elimination of intersegment borrowings, intersegment loans, intersegment deposits, and the assets of the Parent Company and SEPH which were not eliminated.
The following is a reconciliation of financial information for the reportable segments to the Corporation’s consolidated totals:
31. Parent Company Statements
The Parent Company statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the information set forth below. Investments in subsidiaries are accounted for using the equity method of accounting.
Cash represents non-interest bearing deposits with PNB. Net cash provided by operating activities reflects cash payments (received from subsidiaries) for income taxes of $6.8 million, $4.1 million and $3.9 million in 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
(1) See Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for other comprehensive income (loss) detail.
32. Revenue from Contracts with Customers
All of Park's revenue from contracts with customers within the scope of ASC 606 is recognized within "Other income" in the Consolidated Statements of Income. The following table presents the Corporation's sources of other income by revenue stream and operating segment for the years ended December 31, 2020, December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018.
(1) Of the $37.6 million of revenue included within "Other service income", approximately $5.2 million is within the scope of ASC 606, with the remaining $32.4 million consisting primarily of residential real estate loan fees which are out of scope.
(2) Not within the scope of ASC 606.
(3) "Miscellaneous" income includes brokerage income, safe deposit box rentals, and miscellaneous bank fees totaling $7.4 million, all of which are within the scope of ASC 606.
(1) Of the $15.5 million of revenue included within "Other service income", approximately $4.9 million is within the scope of ASC 606, with the remaining $10.6 million consisting primarily of residential real estate loan fees which are out of scope.
(2) Not within the scope of ASC 606.
(3) "Miscellaneous" income includes brokerage income, safe deposit box rentals, and miscellaneous bank fees totaling $7.2 million, all of which are within the scope of ASC 606.
(1) Of the $14.3 million of revenue included within "Other service income", approximately $5.5 million is within the scope of ASC 606, with the remaining $8.8 million consisting primarily of residential real estate loan fees which are out of scope.
(2) Not within the scope of ASC 606.
(3) "Miscellaneous" income includes brokerage income, safe deposit box rentals, and miscellaneous bank fees totaling $6.7 million, all of which are within the scope of ASC 606.
A description of Park's material revenue streams accounted for under ASC 606 follows:
Income from fiduciary activities (gross): Park earns fiduciary fee income and investment brokerage fees from its contracts with trust customers for various fiduciary and investment-related services. These fees are earned over time as the Company provides the contracted monthly and quarterly services and are generally assessed based on the market value of the trust assets.
Service charges on deposit accounts and ATM fees: The Corporation earns fees from its deposit customers for transaction-based, account maintenance, and overdraft services. Transaction-based fees, which include services such as ATM use fees, stop payment charges, statement rendering, and ACH fees, are recognized at the time the transaction is executed as that is the point in time the Corporation fulfills the customer's request. Account maintenance fees, which relate primarily to monthly maintenance, are generally recognized at the end of the month, representing the period over which the Corporation satisfies the performance obligation. Overdraft fees are recognized at the point in time that the overdraft occurs. Service charges on deposits are withdrawn from the customer's account balance.
Other service income: Other service income includes income from (1) the sale and servicing of loans sold to the secondary market, (2) incentive income from third-party credit card issuers, and (3) loan customers for various loan-related activities and services. Income related to the sale and servicing of loans sold to the secondary market is included within Other service income, but is not within the scope of ASC 606. Services that fall within the scope of ASC 606 are recognized as revenue when the Company satisfies its performance obligation to the customer.
Debit card fee income: Park earns interchange fees from debit cardholder transactions conducted primarily through the Visa payment network. Interchange fees from cardholder transactions represent a percentage of the underlying transaction value and are recognized daily, net of card network fees, concurrently with the transaction processing services provided to the cardholder.
Gain or loss on sale of OREO, net: The Corporation records a gain or loss from the sale of OREO when control of the property transfers to the buyer, which generally occurs at the time of delivery of an executed deed. When Park finances the sale of OREO to the buyer, the Corporation assesses whether the buyer is committed to perform the buyer's obligation under the contract and whether collectability of the transaction price is probable. Once these criteria are met, the OREO asset is derecognized and the gain or loss on sale is recorded upon the transfer of control of the property to the buyer. In determining the gain or loss on the sale, the Corporation adjusts the transaction price and related gain (loss) on sale if a significant financing component is present.
33. Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)
The following table is a summary of selected quarterly results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.
The sum of the quarterly earnings per share data presented in the table may not equal the annual results due to rounding and the impact of dilutive common shares on the annual versus the quarterly earnings per share calculation.
ITEM 9.
ITEM 9.CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE.
No response required.
ITEM 9A.
ITEM 9A.CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
With the participation of the Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer (the principal executive officer) and the Chief Financial Officer, Secretary and Treasurer (the principal financial officer) of Park, Park’s management has evaluated the effectiveness of Park’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of the end of the fiscal year covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Based on that evaluation, Park’s Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer and Park’s Chief Financial Officer, Secretary and Treasurer have concluded that:
•information required to be disclosed by Park in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and the other reports that Park files or submits under the Exchange Act would be accumulated and communicated to Park’s management, including Park's principal executive officer and Park's principal financial officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure;
•information required to be disclosed by Park in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and the other reports that Park files or submits under the Exchange Act would be recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms; and
•Park’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the fiscal year covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
The “MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING” is included in "ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Audit Report of the Registered Public Accounting Firm
The “REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM” is included in "ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
There were no changes in Park’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act) that occurred during Park’s quarter ended December 31, 2020, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, Park’s internal control over financial reporting.
ITEM 9B.
ITEM 9B.OTHER INFORMATION.
No response required.
PART III
ITEM 10.
ITEM 10.DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE.
Directors, Executive Officers and Persons Nominated or Chosen to Become Directors or Executive Officers
The information required by Item 401 of SEC Regulation S-K concerning the directors of Park and the nominees for election as directors of Park at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on April 26, 2021 (the “2021 Annual Meeting”) is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosure to be included under the caption “ELECTION OF DIRECTORS (Proposal 1)” in Park’s definitive Proxy Statement relating to the 2021 Annual Meeting to be filed pursuant to SEC Regulation 14A (“Park’s 2021 Proxy Statement”).
The information required by Item 401 of SEC Regulation S-K concerning the executive officers of Park is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosure to be included under the caption “EXECUTIVE OFFICERS” in Park’s 2021 Proxy Statement.
Compliance with Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act
The information required by Item 405 of SEC Regulation S-K with respect to any delinquent form required under Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosure to be included under the caption "BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP OF PARK COMMON SHARES - Delinquent Section 16(a) Reports" in Park's 2021 Proxy Statement.
Committee Charters; Corporate Governance Guidelines; Code of Business Conduct and Ethics
Park’s Board of Directors has adopted charters for each of the Audit Committee, the Compensation Committee, the Executive Committee, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and the Risk Committee. Park's Board of Directors has also adopted Corporate Governance Guidelines which are included as Exhibit A to the charter of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee.
In accordance with the requirements of Section 807 of the NYSE American Company Guide, the Board of Directors of Park has adopted a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics covering the directors, officers and employees of Park and Park's subsidiaries, including Park’s Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer (the principal executive officer), Park's President, Park’s Chief Financial Officer, Secretary and Treasurer (the principal financial officer) and Park’s Chief Accounting Officer (the principal accounting officer). Park intends to disclose the following events, if they occur, in a current report on Form 8-K within four business days following their occurrence: (A) the date and nature of any amendment to a provision of Park’s Code of Business Conduct and Ethics that (i) applies to Park’s principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions, (ii) relates to any element of the code of ethics definition enumerated in Item 406(b) of SEC Regulation S-K, and (iii) is not a technical, administrative or other non-substantive amendment; and (B) a description of any waiver (including the nature of the waiver, the name of the person to whom the waiver was granted and the date of the waiver), including an implicit waiver, from a provision of the Code of Business Conduct and Ethics granted to Park’s principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions that relates to one or more of the elements of the code of ethics definition set forth in Item 406(b) of SEC Regulation S-K. In addition, Park will disclose any waivers from the provisions of the Code of Business Conduct and Ethics granted to a director or an executive officer of Park in a current report on Form 8-K within four business days following their occurrence in accordance with the requirements of the Commentary to Section 807 of the NYSE American Company Guide.
The text of each of the Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, the Audit Committee Charter, the Compensation Committee Charter, the Executive Committee Charter, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee Charter (including the Corporate Governance Guidelines) and the Risk Committee Charter is posted on the “Corporate Information - Governance Documents” section of the “Investor Relations” page of Park’s Internet site located at http://www.parknationalcorp.com. Interested persons may also obtain copies of the Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, the Audit Committee Charter, the Compensation Committee Charter, the Executive Committee Charter, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee Charter and the Risk Committee Charter, without charge, by writing to the Chief Financial Officer, Secretary and Treasurer of Park at Park National Corporation, 50 North Third Street, P.O. Box 3500, Newark, Ohio 43058-3500, Attention: Brady T. Burt.
Procedures for Recommending Director Nominees
Information concerning the procedures by which shareholders of Park may recommend nominees to Park's Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and Park’s full Board of Directors is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosure to be included under the caption “CORPORATE GOVERNANCE - Nominating Procedures” in Park’s 2021 Proxy Statement. These procedures have not materially changed from those described in Park’s definitive Proxy Statement for the 2020 Annual Meeting of Shareholders held on April 27, 2020.
Audit Committee
The information required by Items 407(d)(4) and 407(d)(5) of SEC Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosure to be included under the caption “STRUCTURE AND MEETINGS OF BOARD OF DIRECTORS - Committees of the Board - Audit Committee” in Park’s 2021 Proxy Statement.
ITEM 11.
ITEM 11.EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION.
The information required by Item 402 of SEC Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosure to be included under the captions “EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION” and “DIRECTOR COMPENSATION” in Park’s 2021 Proxy Statement.
The information required by Item 407(e)(4) of SEC Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosure to be included under the caption “COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION” in Park’s 2021 Proxy Statement.
The information required by Item 407(e)(5) of SEC Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosure to be included under the caption “EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION - Compensation Committee Report” in Park’s 2021 Proxy Statement.
ITEM 12.
ITEM 12.SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS.
Beneficial Ownership of Common Shares of Park
The information required by Item 403 of SEC Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosure to be included under the caption “BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP OF PARK COMMON SHARES” in Park’s 2021 Proxy Statement.
Equity Compensation Plan Information
The information required by Item 201(d) of SEC Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosure to be included under the caption "EQUITY COMPENSATION PLAN INFORMATION" in Park's 2021 Proxy Statement.
ITEM 13.
ITEM 13.CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE.
Certain Relationships and Related Person Transactions
The information required by Item 404 of SEC Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosure to be included under the captions “CORPORATE GOVERNANCE - Independence of Directors,” “CORPORATE GOVERNANCE - Transactions with Related Persons” and “COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION” in Park’s 2021 Proxy Statement.
Director Independence
The information required by Item 407(a) of SEC Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosure to be included under the caption “CORPORATE GOVERNANCE - Independence of Directors” in Park’s 2021 Proxy Statement.
ITEM 14.
ITEM 14.PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES.
The information called for in this Item 14 is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosure to be included under the captions “AUDIT COMMITTEE MATTERS - Pre-Approval of Services Performed by Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” and “AUDIT COMMITTEE MATTERS - Fees of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” in Park’s 2021 Proxy Statement.
PART IV
ITEM 15.
ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES.
(a) The following documents are filed as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K:
(1) Consolidated Financial Statements:
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (Crowe LLP) -- included in "ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K
Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2020 and 2019 -- included in "ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K
Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 -- included in "ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 -- included in "ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders' Equity for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 -- included in "ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 -- included in "ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements -- included in "ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K
(2) Financial Statement Schedules.
All schedules for which provision is made in the applicable accounting regulations of the SEC are not required under the related instructions or are inapplicable and have been omitted.
(3) Exhibits.
The documents listed in the Index to Exhibits that immediately precedes the "Signatures" pages of this Annual Report on Form 10-K are filed or furnished with this Annual Report on Form 10-K as exhibits or incorporated into this Annual Report on Form 10-K by reference in each case as noted. Each management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement is identified as such in the Index to Exhibits.
(b) The documents listed in the Index to Exhibits that immediately precedes the "Signatures" pages of this Annual Report on Form 10-K are filed or furnished with this Annual Report on Form 10-K as exhibits or incorporated into this Annual Report on Form 10-K by reference.
(c) Financial Statement Schedules.
None.
ITEM 16. FORM 10-K SUMMARY.
None.
Index to Exhibits
Exhibit No. Description of Exhibit
2.1 Agreement and Plan of Merger and Reorganization among Park National Corporation, The Park National Bank and NewDominion Bank, dated as of January 22, 2018 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Park National Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K dated and filed on January 26, 2018 (File No. 1-13006))*
2.2 Agreement and Plan of Merger and Reorganization between Park National Corporation and CAB Financial Corporation, dated as of September 12, 2018 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Park National Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K dated and filed on September 14, 2018 (File No. 1-13006))*
3.1(a) Articles of Incorporation of Park National Corporation as filed with the Ohio Secretary of State on March 24, 1992 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3(a) to Park National Corporation's Form 8-B, filed on May 20, 1992 (File No. 0-18772) (“Park's Form 8-B”)) P
3.1(b) Certificate of Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation of Park National Corporation as filed with the Ohio Secretary of State on May 6, 1993 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3(b) to Park National Corporation's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1993 (File No. 0-18772)) P
3.1(c) Certificate of Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation of Park National Corporation as filed with the Ohio Secretary of State on April 16, 1996 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3(a) to Park National Corporation's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 1996 (File No. 1-13006))
3.1(d) Certificate of Amendment by Shareholders to the Articles of Incorporation of Park National Corporation as filed with the Ohio Secretary of State on April 22, 1997 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3(a)(1) to Park National Corporation's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 1997 (File No. 1-13006) (“Park's June 30, 1997 Form 10-Q”))
3.1(e) Certificate of Amendment by Shareholders as filed with the Ohio Secretary of State on December 18, 2008 in order to evidence the adoption by the shareholders of Park National Corporation on December 18, 2008 of an amendment to Article FOURTH of Park National Corporation's Articles of Incorporation to authorize Park National Corporation to issue up to 200,000 preferred shares, without par value (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Park National Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K dated and filed on December 19, 2008 (File No. 1-13006))
3.1(f) Certificate of Amendment by Directors to Articles as filed with the Ohio Secretary of State on December 19, 2008, evidencing adoption of amendment by Board of Directors of Park National Corporation to Article FOURTH of Articles of Incorporation to establish express terms of Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Shares, Series A, each without par value, of Park National Corporation (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Park National Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K dated and filed on December 23, 2008 (File No. 1-13006))
3.1(g) Certificate of Amendment by Shareholders as filed with the Ohio Secretary of State on April 18, 2011 in order to evidence the adoption by Park National Corporation's shareholders of an amendment to Article SIXTH of Park National Corporation's Articles of Incorporation in order to provide that shareholders do not have preemptive rights (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Park National Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K dated and filed on April 19, 2011 (File No. 1-13006))
3.1(h) Articles of Incorporation of Park National Corporation [This document represents the Articles of Incorporation of Park National Corporation in compiled form incorporating all amendments. This compiled document has not been filed with the Ohio Secretary of State.] (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1(h) to Park National Corporation's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2011 (File No. 1-13006))
Exhibit No. Description of Exhibit
3.2(a) Regulations of Park National Corporation (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3(b) to Park's Form 8-B) P
3.2(b) Certified Resolution regarding Adoption of Amendment to Subsection 2.02(A) of the Regulations of Park National Corporation by Shareholders on April 21, 1997 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3(b)(1) to Park's June 30, 1997 Form 10-Q)
3.2(c) Certificate Regarding Adoption of Amendments to Sections 1.04 and 1.11 of Park National Corporation's Regulations by the Shareholders on April 17, 2006 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Park National Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K dated and filed on April 18, 2006 (File No. 1-13006))
3.2(d) Certificate Regarding Adoption by the Shareholders of Park National Corporation on April 21, 2008 of Amendment to Regulations to Add New Section 5.10 to Article FIVE (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.2(d) to Park National Corporation's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2008 (File No. 1-13006) (“Park's March 31, 2008 Form 10-Q”))
3.2(e) Regulations of Park National Corporation [This document represents the Regulations of Park National Corporation in compiled form incorporating all amendments.] (incorporated herein by reference to
Exhibit 3.2(e) to Park's March 31, 2008 Form 10-Q)
4.1(a) Junior Subordinated Indenture, dated as of December 5, 2005, between Vision Bancshares, Inc. and Wilmington Trust Company, as Trustee (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.16 to Vision Bancshares, Inc.'s Annual Report on Form 10-KSB for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2005 (File No. 000-50719))
4.1(b) First Supplemental Indenture, dated to be effective as of 6:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, on March 9, 2007, among Wilmington Trust Company, as Trustee; Park National Corporation; and Vision Bancshares, Inc. (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1(b) to Park National Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K dated and filed on March 15, 2007 (File No. 1-13006) (“Park's March 15, 2007 Form 8-K”))
4.2(a) Amended and Restated Trust Agreement, dated as of December 5, 2005, among Vision Bancshares, Inc., as Depositor; Wilmington Trust Company, as Property Trustee and as Delaware Trustee; and the Administrative Trustees named therein, in respect of Vision Bancshares Trust I (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.15 to Vision Bancshares, Inc.'s Annual Report on Form 10-KSB for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2005 (File No. 000-50719))
Note: Pursuant to the First Supplemental Indenture, dated to be effective as of 6:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, on March 9, 2007, among Wilmington Trust Company, as Trustee; Park National Corporation; and Vision Bancshares, Inc., Park National Corporation succeeded to and was substituted for Vision Bancshares, Inc. as “Depositor”
4.2(b) Notice of Resignation of Administrative Trustees and Appointment of Successors, dated March 9, 2007, delivered to Wilmington Trust Company by the Resigning Administrative Trustees named therein, the Successor Administrative Trustees named therein and Park National Corporation (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.2(b) to Park's March 15, 2007 Form 8-K)
4.2(c) Notice of Removal of Administrative Trustee and Appointment of Successor, dated February 21, 2013, delivered to Wilmington Trust Company by the continuing Administrative Trustees named therein, the successor Administrative Trustee named therein and Park National Corporation (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.2(c) to Park National Corporation's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012 (File No. 1-13006) ("Park's 2012 Form 10-K"))
Exhibit No. Description of Exhibit
4.3 Guarantee Agreement, dated as of December 5, 2005, between Vision Bancshares, Inc., as Guarantor, and Wilmington Trust Company, as Guarantee Trustee, in respect of Vision Bancshares Trust I (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.17 to Vision Bancshares, Inc.'s Annual Report on Form 10-KSB for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2005 (File No. 000-50719))
Note: Pursuant to the First Supplemental Indenture, dated to be effective as of 6:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, on March 9, 2007, among Wilmington Trust Company, as Trustee; Park National Corporation; and Vision Bancshares, Inc., Park National Corporation succeeded to and was substituted for Vision Bancshares, Inc. as “Guarantor”
4.4 Agreement to furnish instruments and agreements defining rights of holders of long-term debt (filed herewith)
4.5 Description of Capital Stock of Park National Corporation (filed herewith)
4.6(a) Credit Agreement, dated as of May 18, 2016, between Park National Corporation and U.S. Bank National Association (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Park National Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K dated and filed on May 23, 2016 (File No. 1-13006))
4.6(b) First Amendment to Credit Agreement, made and entered into as of June 15, 2017, between Park National Corporation and U.S. Bank National Association (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Park National Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K dated and filed on June 16, 2017 (File No. 1-13006))
4.6(c) Second Amendment to Credit Agreement, made and entered into as of May 17, 2018, between Park National Corporation and U.S. Bank National Association (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Park National Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K dated and filed on May 21, 2018 (File No. 1-13006))
4.6(d) Third Amendment to Credit Agreement, made and entered into as of June 22, 2018, between Park National Corporation and U.S. Bank National Association (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Park National Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K dated and filed on June 28, 2018 (File No. 1-13006))
4.6(e) Fourth Amendment to the Credit Agreement, made and entered into as of June 30, 2019, by and between Park National Corporation and U.S. Bank National Association (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Park National Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K dated and filed on June 26, 2019 (File No. 1-13006)("Park's June 26, 2019 Form 8-K"))
4.6 (f) Fifth Amendment to the Credit Agreement, made and entered into as of June 17, 2020, by and between Park National Corporation and U.S. Bank National Association (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Park National Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K dated and filed on June 18, 2020 (File No. 1-13006)
4.6(g) Revolving Note, dated June 20, 2019, in the principal amount of $15,000,000 and with a maturity date of June 20, 2021 (reflecting the defined Termination Date), issued by Park National Corporation to U.S. Bank National Association (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to Park's June 26, 2019 Form 8-K)
4.6(h) Term Note, dated June 20, 2019, in the principal amount of $50,000,000 and with a maturity date of June 20, 2022, issued by Park National Corporation to U.S. Bank National Association (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to Park's June 26, 2019 Form 8-K)
4.7(a) Indenture, dated as of August 20, 2020, between Park National Corporation, as Issuer, and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Park National Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K dated and filed on August 20, 2020 (File No. 1-13006)("Park's August 20, 2020 Form 8-K"))
4.7(b) First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of August 20, 2020, between Park National Corporation, as Issuer, and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to Park's August 20, 2020 Form 8-K")
Exhibit No. Description of Exhibit
4.7(c) Form of 4.50% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Subordinated Notes due 2030 issued by Park National Corporation (included in Exhibit 4.7(b) to this Annual Report on Form 10-K)(incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to Park's August 20, 2020 Form 8-K)
10.1† Summary of Base Salaries for Executive Officers of Park National Corporation (filed herewith)
10.2† Amended and Restated Split-Dollar Agreement, made and entered into effective as of June 15, 2015, between The Park National Bank and David L. Trautman (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2(a) to Park National Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K dated and filed on June 19, 2015 (File No. 1-13006) ("Park's June 19, 2015 Form 8-K"))
10.3† Split-Dollar Agreement, made and entered into effective as of June 15, 2015, between The Park National Bank and Brady T. Burt (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Park's June 19, 2015 Form 8-K)
10.4† Amended and Restated Split-Dollar Agreement, made and entered into effective as of June 15, 2015, between The Park National Bank, Park National Corporation and C. Daniel DeLawder (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2(b) to Park's June 19, 2015 Form 8-K)
10.5† Amended and Restated Split-Dollar Agreement, made and entered into effective as of June 15, 2015, between The Park National Bank and David L. Trautman (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to Park National Corporation's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015 (File No.1-13006) ("Park's 2015 Form 10-K"))
10.6† Amended and Restated Split-Dollar Agreement, made and entered into effective as of June 15, 2015, between The Park National Bank and Brady T. Burt (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to Park's June 19, 2015 Form 8-K)
10.7† Amended and Restated Split-Dollar Agreement, made and entered into effective as of June 15, 2015, between The Park National Bank and C. Daniel Delawder (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to Park's 2015 Form 10-K)
10.8† Amended and Restated Split-Dollar Agreement, made and entered into effective as of January 27, 2020, between The Park National Bank and Matthew R. Miller (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Park National Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K dated and filed on January 27, 2020 (File No.1-13006)("Park's January 27, 2020 Form 8-K"))
10.9(a)† Amended and Restated Split-Dollar Agreement, made and entered into effective as of August 4, 2015, between The Park National Bank and Matthew R. Miller (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.4(a) to Park's January 27, 2020 Form 8-K)
10.9(b)† First Amendment to the Amended and Restated Split-Dollar Agreement, made and entered into effective as of January 27, 2020, between The Park National Bank and Matthew R. Miller (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.4(b) to Park's January 27, 2020 Form 8-K)
10.10† Supplemental Executive Retirement Benefits Agreement, made as of June 15, 2015, between The Park National Bank and David L. Trautman (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1(a) to Park's June 19, 2015 Form 8-K)
10.11† Supplemental Executive Retirement Benefits Agreement, made as of June 15, 2015, between The Park National Bank and Brady T. Burt (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1(b) to Park's June 19, 2015 Form 8-K)
10.12(a)† Supplemental Executive Retirement Benefits Agreement, made as of June 15, 2015, between The Park National Bank and C. Daniel DeLawder (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1(c) to Park's June 19, 2015 Form 8-K)
Exhibit No. Description of Exhibit
10.12(b)† Amendment to the Supplemental Executive Retirement Benefits Agreement, entered into December 3, 2019, effective as of October 1, 2019, between The Park National Bank and C. Daniel DeLawder (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Park National Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K dated and filed on December 5, 2019 (File No.1-13006)("Park's December 5, 2019 Form 8-K"))
10.13† Supplemental Executive Retirement Benefits Agreement, made as of February 18, 2008, between Park National Corporation and David L. Trautman (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Park National Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K dated and filed on February 19, 2008 (File No. 1-13006))
10.14(a)† Amended and Restated Supplemental Executive Retirement Benefits Agreement, made as of February 18, 2008, between Park National Corporation and C. Daniel DeLawder (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.14(a) to Park National Corporation's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 (File No. 1-13006))
10.14(b)† Amendment to the Amended and Restated Supplemental Executive Retirement Benefits Agreement, entered into December 3, 2019, effective as of October 1, 2019, between The Park National Bank and C. Daniel DeLawder (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Park's December 5, 2019 Form 8-K)
10.15† Supplemental Executive Retirement Benefits Agreement, made as of June 15, 2015, between The Park National Bank and Matthew R. Miller (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Park's January 27, 2020 Form 8-K)
10.16† Supplemental Executive Retirement Benefits Agreement, made and entered into effective January 27, 2020, between The Park National Bank and Matthew R. Miller (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Park's January 27, 2020 Form 8-K)
10.17† Summary of Certain Compensation for Directors of Park National Corporation (filed herewith)
10.18(a)† Form of Split-Dollar Agreement, made and entered into effective as of December 28, 2007, covering certain Non-Employee Directors of Park National Corporation (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2(a) to Park National Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K dated and filed on January 2, 2008 (File No. 1-13006))
10.18(b)† Schedule identifying Non-Employee Directors of Park National Corporation covered by form of Split-Dollar Agreement, made and entered into effective as of December 28, 2007 (filed herewith)
10.19† Park National Corporation 2013 Long-Term Incentive Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Park National Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated and filed on April 23, 2013 (File No. 1-13006))
10.20† Form of Park National Corporation 2013 Long-Term Incentive Plan Performance-Based Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement used to evidence awards of Performance-Based Restricted Stock Units to employees of Park National Corporation and of its subsidiaries granted on and after January 24, 2014 and prior to December 5, 2016 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Park National Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated and filed on January 27, 2014 (File No. 1-13006))
10.21† Form of Park National Corporation 2013 Long-Term Incentive Plan Performance-Based Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement used to evidence awards of Performance-Based Restricted Stock Units to employees of Park National Corporation and of its subsidiaries granted on and after December 5, 2016 and prior to April 24, 2017 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Park National Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K dated and filed on December 8, 2016 (File No. 1-13006))
10.22† Park National Corporation 2017 Long-Term Incentive Plan for Non-Employee Directors (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Park National Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K dated and filed on April 26, 2017 (File No. 1-13006)) ("Park's April 26, 2017 Form 8-K")
Exhibit No. Description of Exhibit
10.23† Park National Corporation 2017 Long-Term Plan for Employees (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Park's April 26, 2017 Form 8-K)
10.24† Form of Park National Corporation 2017 Long-Term Incentive Plan for Employees Performance-Based Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement used to evidence awards of Performance-Based Restricted Stock Units to employees of Park National Corporation and of its subsidiaries granted after December 4, 2017 and prior to November 19, 2018 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Park National Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K dated and filed on December 5, 2017 (File No. 1-13006))
10.25† Form of Park National Corporation 2017 Long-Term Incentive Plan for Employees Performance-Based Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement used and to be used to evidence awards of Performance-Based Restricted Stock Units to employees of Park National Corporation and of its subsidiaries granted after November 19, 2018 and prior to January 1, 2020 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Park National Corporation's Current Report on Form 8-K dated and filed on November 20, 2018 (File No. 1-13006))
10.26† Form of Park National Corporation 2017 Long-Term Incentive Plan for Employees Amendment No. 1 to Performance-Based Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement, made effective as of January 1, 2019, entered into with employees of Park National Corporation and of its subsidiaries with respect to performance-based restricted stock unit awards granted effective January 1, 2019 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Park National Corporation's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2020 (File No. 1-13006)("Park's March 31, 2020 Form 10-Q"))
10.27† Form of Park National Corporation 2017 Long-Term Incentive Plan for Employees Performance-Based Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement used to evidence awards of performance-based restricted stock units to employees of Park National Corporation and of its subsidiaries granted effective as of January 1, 2020 and to be used to evidence such awards granted after January 1, 2020 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to Park's March 31, 2020 Form 10-Q)
14 Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, as most recently approved by the Park National Corporation Board of Directors on April 24, 2020 (filed herewith)
21 Subsidiaries of Park National Corporation (filed herewith)
23 Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (Crowe LLP) (filed herewith)
24 Powers of Attorney of Directors and Executive Officers of Park National Corporation (filed herewith)
31.1 Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certifications - Principal Executive Officer (filed herewith)
31.2 Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certifications - Principal Financial Officer (filed herewith)
32 Certifications Pursuant to Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code - Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer (furnished herewith)
101 The following information from Park National Corporation's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, formatted in Inline XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language) pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T: (i) the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2020 and 2019; (ii) the Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018; (iii) the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018; (iv) the Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders' Equity for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018; (v) the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018; and (vi) the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (electronically submitted herewith)**
104 Cover Page Interactive Data File (the cover page XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document with applicable taxonomy extension information contained in Exhibit 101) **
___________________
* Annexes, schedules and exhibits have been omitted pursuant to Item 601(b)(2) of SEC Regulation S-K, as in effect at the time of filing of the Agreement and Plan of Merger and Reorganization. A copy of any omitted attachment will be furnished supplementally by Park National Corporation to the SEC on a confidential basis upon request.
** The instance document does not appear in the interactive data file because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document.
† Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.
P Park National Corporation filed this exhibit with the SEC in paper form originally and this exhibit has not been filed with the SEC in electronic format.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this Report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
PARK NATIONAL CORPORATION
Date: February 26, 2021By:/s/ David L. Trautman
David L. Trautman,
Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this Report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities indicated on the 26th day of February, 2021.
NameCapacity
/s/ David L. Trautman
David L. Trautman
Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and Director
/s/ Matthew R. Miller
Matthew R. Miller
President and Director
/s/ Brady T. Burt
Brady T. Burt
Chief Financial Officer, Secretary and Treasurer
/s/ Kelly A. Herreman
Kelly A. Herreman
Chief Accounting Officer
/s/ Donna M. Alvarado*
Donna M. Alvarado
Director
/s/ C. Daniel DeLawder
C. Daniel DeLawder
Director
/s/ F. William Englefield IV*
F. William Englefield IV
Director
/s/ Alicia J. Hupp*
Alicia J. Hupp
Director
/s/ Jason N. Judd*
Jason N. Judd
Director
/s/ Stephen J. Kambeitz*
Stephen J. Kambeitz
Director
/s/ Timothy S. McLain*
Timothy S. McLain
Director
NameCapacity
/s/ Robert E. O’Neill*
Robert E. O’Neill
Director
/s/ Mark R. Ramser*
Mark R. Ramser
Director
/s/ Julia A. Sloat*
Julia A. Sloat
Director
/s/ Leon Zazworsky*
Leon ZazworskyDirector
__________________________
*The undersigned, by signing his name hereto, does hereby sign this Annual Report on Form 10-K on behalf of each of the directors of the Registrant identified above pursuant to Powers of Attorney executed by the directors of the Registrant identified above, which Powers of Attorney are filed with this Annual Report on Form 10-K in Exhibit 24.
By:/s/ David L. Trautman
David L. Trautman
Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer
Attorney-in-Fact