ITEM 1. BUSINESS
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
A cautionary note about forward-looking statements: In its oral and written communication, First Financial Corporation from time to time includes forward-looking statements, within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements can include statements about estimated cost savings, plans and objectives for future operations and expectations about performance, as well as economic and market conditions and trends. They often can be identified by the use of words such as “expect,” “may,” “could,” “intend,” “project,” “estimate,” “believe” or “anticipate” or words of similar import. First Financial Corporation may include forward-looking statements in filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, in other written materials such as this Annual Report and in oral statements made by senior management to analysts, investors, representatives of the media and others. It is intended that these forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and First Financial Corporation undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which the forward-looking statement is made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.
By their nature, forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors. Actual results may differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statement. The discussion in Item 1A
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
Difficult conditions in the capital markets and the economy generally may materially adversely affect the Corporation’s business and results of operations
From December 2007 through June 2009, the U.S. economy was in recession. Business activity across a wide range of industries and regions in the U.S. was greatly reduced. Although economic conditions have begun to improve, certain sectors, such as real estate, remain weak and unemployment remains high. Local governments and many businesses are still in serious difficulty due to lower consumer spending and the lack of liquidity in the credit markets.
Market conditions also led to the failure or merger of several prominent financial institutions and numerous regional and community-based financial institutions. These failures, as well as projected future failures, have had a significant negative impact on the capitalization level of the deposit insurance fund of the FDIC, which, in turn, has led to a significant increase in deposit insurance premiums paid by financial institutions.
The Corporation’s financial performance generally, and in particular the ability of borrowers to pay interest on and repay principal of outstanding loans and the value of collateral securing those loans, as well as demand for loans and other products and services that the Corporation offers, is highly dependent upon the business environment in the markets where the Corporation operates and in the United States as a whole. A favorable business environment is generally characterized by, among other factors, economic growth, efficient capital markets, low inflation, low unemployment, high business and investor confidence, and strong business earnings. Unfavorable or uncertain economic and market conditions can be caused by declines in economic growth, business activity or investor or business confidence; limitations on the availability or increases in the cost of credit and capital; increases in inflation or interest rates; high unemployment, natural disasters, or a combination of these or other factors.
During 2011, the business environment continued to be adverse for many households and businesses in the United States and worldwide. While economic conditions in the United States and worldwide have begun to improve, there can be no assurance that this improvement will continue. Such conditions have affected, and could continue to adversely affect, the credit quality of the Corporation’s loans, results of operations and financial condition.
In response to economic and market conditions, from time to time the Corporation has undertaken initiatives to reduce its cost structure where appropriate. These initiatives may not be sufficient to meet current and future changes in economic and market conditions and allow the Corporation to maintain profitability. In addition, costs actually incurred in connection with these restructuring actions may be higher than our estimates of such costs or may not lead to the anticipated cost savings.
The soundness of other financial institutions could adversely affect us
The ability of the Corporation to engage in routine funding transactions could be adversely affected by the actions and commercial soundness of other financial institutions. Financial services institutions are interrelated as a result of trading, clearing, counterparty, or other relationships. As a result, defaults by, or even rumors or questions about, one or more financial services institutions, or the financial services industry generally, could lead to market-wide liquidity problems and losses or defaults by the Corporation or by other institutions. Many of these transactions expose the Corporation to credit risk in the event of default of the Corporation’s counterparty or client. In addition, the Corporation’s credit risk may be adversely impacted when the collateral held by the Corporation cannot be realized upon or its liquidated price is not sufficient to recover the full amount of the financial instrument exposure. There is no assurance that any such losses would not materially and adversely affect the Corporation’s results of operations.
There can be no assurance that actions of the U.S. government, Federal Reserve and other governmental and regulatory bodies for the purpose of stabilizing the financial markets will achieve the intended effect
There has been much legislative and regulatory action in response to the financial crises affecting the banking system and financial markets. There can be no assurance, however, as to the actual impact that the legislation and its implementing regulations or any other governmental program will have on the financial markets or on the Corporation. The failure of these programs to help stabilize the financial markets and a continuation or worsening of current financial market conditions could materially and adversely affect the Corporation’s business, financial condition, results of operations, access to credit or the trading price of the Corporation’s common stock.
Contemplated and proposed legislation, state and federal programs, and increased government control or influence may adversely affect the Corporation by increasing the uncertainty on its lending operations and expose it to increased losses. Statutes and regulations may be altered which potentially increase the Corporation’s cost of service and underwrite mortgage loans.
Recently enacted and potential further financial regulatory reforms could have a significant impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations
The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Dodd-Frank Act”), enacted in July 2010, instituted major changes to the banking and financial institutions regulatory regimes in light of the recent performance of and government intervention in the financial services sector. Many aspects of the Dodd-Frank Act are subject to rulemaking and will take effect over several years, making it difficult to anticipate the overall financial impact on the Corporation. The changes resulting from the Dodd-Frank Act may impact the profitability of business activities, require changes to certain business practices, impose more stringent capital, liquidity and leverage requirements or otherwise adversely affect the Corporation’s business. In particular, the potential impact of the Dodd-Frank Act on the Corporation’s operations and activities, both currently and prospectively, include, among others:
· a reduction in the ability to generate or originate revenue-producing assets as a result of compliance with heightened capital standards;
· increased cost of operations due to greater regulatory oversight, supervision and examination of banks and bank holding companies, and higher deposit insurance premiums;·
· the limitation on the ability to raise new capital through the use of trust preferred securities, as any new issuances of these securities will no longer be included as Tier 1 capital going forward;
· a potential reduction in fee income due to limits on interchange fees applicable to larger institutions which could effectively reduce the fees we can charge; and
· the limitation on the ability to expand consumer product and service offerings due to anticipated stricter consumer protection laws and regulations.
Further, the Corporation may be required to invest significant management attention and resources to evaluate and make any changes necessary to comply with new statutory and regulatory requirements under the Dodd-Frank Act, which may negatively impact results of operations and financial condition.
The Corporation cannot predict whether there will be additional proposed laws or reforms that would affect the U.S. financial system or financial institutions, whether or when such changes may be adopted, how such changes may be interpreted and enforced or how such changes may impact the Corporation’s financial condition and results of operations. However, the costs of complying with any additional laws or regulations could have a material adverse effect on the Corporation’s financial condition and results of operations.
The Corporation is subject to interest rate risk
The Corporation’s earnings and cash flows are largely dependent upon the Corporation’s net interest income. Net interest income is the difference between interest income earned on interest earning assets such as loans and securities and interest expense paid on interest bearing liabilities such as deposits and borrowed funds. Interest rates are highly sensitive to many factors that are beyond the Corporation’s control, including general economic conditions and policies of various governmental and regulatory agencies. Changes in monetary policy, including changes in interest rates, could influence not only the interest that is received on loans and securities and the interest that is paid on deposits and borrowings, but such changes could also affect (i) the Corporation’s ability to originate loans and obtain deposits, and (ii) the fair value of the Corporation’s financial assets and liabilities. Currently, the Corporation is in an asset-sensitive position. In a rising interest rate environment, the Corporation may be unable to sell its lower-yielding mortgage loans, thus impacting its ability to generate higher yielding loans which could adversely impact earnings.
The Corporation is subject to lending risk
There are inherent risks associated with the Corporation’s lending activities. These risks include, among other things, the impact of changes in interest rates and changes in the economic conditions in the markets where the Corporation operates as well as those across Indiana, Illinois and the United States. Increases in interest rates and/or weakening economic conditions could adversely impact the ability of borrowers to repay outstanding loans or the value of the collateral securing these loans. Credit issues may continue to broaden during 2012 depending on the severity and duration of the declining economy and the current credit cycle.
The Corporation originates commercial real estate loans, commercial loans, consumer loans and residential real estate loans primarily within its market areas. Commercial real estate, commercial, and consumer loans may expose a lender to greater credit risk than loans secured by residential real estate because the collateral securing these loans may not be sold as easily as residential real estate. These loans also have greater credit risk than residential real estate for the following reasons:
· Commercial Real Estate Loans. Repayment is dependent upon income being generated in amounts sufficient to cover operating expenses and debt service.
· Commercial Loans. Repayment is dependent upon the successful operation of the borrower’s business.
· Consumer Loans. Consumer loans (such as personal lines of credit) are collateralized, if at all, with assets that may not provide an adequate source of payment of the loan due to depreciation, damage, or loss.
The Corporation is also subject to various laws and regulations that affect its lending activities. Failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations could subject the Corporation to regulatory enforcement action that could result in the assessment of significant civil money penalties against the Corporation.
The Corporation’s allowance for loan losses may be insufficient
The Corporation maintains an allowance for loan losses, which is a reserve established through a provision for loan losses charged to expense, that represents management’s best estimate of probable incurred losses that are inherent within the existing portfolio of loans. The level of the allowance reflects management’s continuing evaluation of industry concentrations; specific credit risks; loan loss experience; current loan portfolio quality; present economic, political and regulatory conditions and unidentified losses inherent in the current loan portfolio. The determination of the appropriate level of the allowance for loan losses inherently involves a high degree of subjectivity and requires the Corporation to make significant estimates of current credit risks and future trends, all of which may undergo material changes. Changes in economic conditions affecting borrowers, new information regarding existing loans, identification of additional problem loans and other factors, both within and outside of the Corporation’s control, may require an increase in the allowance for loan losses. In addition, bank regulatory agencies periodically review the Corporation’s allowance for loan losses and may require an increase in the provision for loan losses or the recognition of further loan charge-offs, based on judgments different than those of management. In addition, if charge-offs in future periods exceed the allowance for loan losses, the Corporation will need additional provisions to increase the allowance for loan losses. Any increases in the allowance for loan losses will result in a decrease in net income and, possibly, capital, and may have a material adverse effect on the Corporation’s financial condition and results of operations.
The Corporation may foreclose on collateral property and would be subject to the increased costs associated with ownership of real property, resulting in reduced revenues and earnings
The Corporation forecloses on collateral property from time to time to protect its investment and thereafter owns and operates such property, in which case it is exposed to the risks inherent in the ownership of real estate. The amount that the Corporation, as a mortgagee, may realize after a default is dependent upon factors outside of its control, including, but not limited to: (i) general or local economic conditions; (ii) neighborhood values; (iii) interest rates; (iv) real estate tax rates; (v) operating expenses of the mortgaged properties; (vi) environmental remediation liabilities; (vii) ability to obtain and maintain adequate occupancy of the properties; (viii) zoning laws; (ix) governmental rules, regulations and fiscal policies; and (x) acts of God. Certain expenditures associated with the ownership of real estate, principally real estate taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs, may adversely affect the income from the real estate. Therefore, the cost of operating real property may exceed the income earned from such property, and the Corporation may have to advance funds in order to protect its investment, or it may be required to dispose of the real property at a loss. These expenditures and costs could adversely affect the Corporation’s ability to generate revenues, resulting in reduced levels of profitability.
The Corporation operates in a highly competitive industry and market area
The Corporation faces substantial competition in all areas of its operations from a variety of different competitors, many of which are larger and may have more financial resources. Such competitors include banks and many other types of financial institutions, including, without limitation, savings and loans, credit unions, finance companies, brokerage firms, insurance companies, factoring companies and other financial intermediaries. The financial services industry could become even more competitive as a result of legislative, regulatory and technological changes and continued consolidation. Banks, securities firms and insurance companies can merge under the umbrella of a financial holding company, which can offer virtually any type of financial service, including banking, securities underwriting, insurance (both agency and underwriting) and merchant banking. Also, technology has lowered barriers to entry and made it possible for non-banks to offer products and services traditionally provided by banks, such as automatic transfer and automatic payment systems. Many of the Corporation’s competitors have fewer regulatory constraints and may have lower cost structures. Additionally, due to their size, many competitors may be able to achieve economies of scale and, as a result, may offer a broader range of products and services as well as better pricing for those products and services than the Corporation can.
The Corporation’s ability to compete successfully depends on a number of factors, including, among other things:
· The ability to develop, maintain and build upon long-term customer relationships based on top quality service, and safe, sound assets;
· The ability to expand the Corporation’s market position;
· The scope, relevance and pricing of products and services offered to meet customer needs and demands;
· The rate at which the Corporation introduces new products and services relative to its competitors;
· Customer satisfaction with the Corporation’s level of service; and
· Industry and general economic trends.
Failure to perform in any of these areas could significantly weaken the Corporation’s competitive position, which could adversely affect the Corporation’s growth and profitability, which, in turn, could have a material adverse effect on the Corporation’s financial condition and results of operations.
On July 18, 2011, the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System published a final rule repealing Regulation Q, which prohibits the payment of interest on demand deposits by institutions that are member banks of the Federal Reserve System. The rule implements Section 627 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act signed by President Obama on July 21, 2010, which repealed Section 19(i) of the Federal Reserve Act in its entirety effective July 21, 2011. As a result, financial institutions may now offer interest-bearing demand deposit accounts to commercial customers, which were previously forbidden under Regulation Q. The repeal of Regulation Q may cause increased competition from other financial institutions for these deposits. If the Bank decides to pay interest on demand accounts, it would expect interest expense to increase.
The Corporation is subject to extensive government regulation and supervision
The Corporation, primarily through the Bank, is subject to extensive federal regulation and supervision. Banking regulations are primarily intended to protect depositors’ funds, federal deposit insurance funds and the banking system as a whole, not shareholders. These regulations affect the Corporation’s lending practices, capital structure, investment practices, and growth, among other things. Congress and federal regulatory agencies continually review banking laws, regulations and policies for possible changes. Changes to statutes, regulations or regulatory policies, including changes in interpretation or implementation of statutes, regulations or policies, could affect the Corporation in substantial and unpredictable ways. Such changes could subject the Corporation to additional costs, limit the types of financial services and products the Corporation may offer and/or increase the ability of non-banks to offer competing financial services and products, among other things. Failure to comply with laws, regulations or policies could result in sanctions by regulatory agencies, civil money penalties and/or reputation damage, which could have a material adverse effect on the Corporation’s business, financial condition and results of operations. While the Corporation has policies and procedures designed to prevent any such violations, there can be no assurance that such violations will not occur.
The Corporation is dependent on certain key management and staff
The Corporation relies on key personnel to manage and operate its business. The loss of key staff may adversely affect the Corporation’s ability to maintain and manage these portfolios effectively, which could negatively affect the Corporation’s revenues. In addition, loss of key personnel could result in increased recruiting and hiring expenses, which could cause a decrease in the Corporation’s net income.
The Corporation’s internal operations are subject to a number of risks
The Corporation’s internal operations are subject to certain risks, including but not limited to, data processing system failures and errors, customer or employee fraud and catastrophic failures resulting from terrorist acts or natural disasters. Operational risk resulting from inadequate or failed internal processes, people, and systems includes the risk of fraud by employees or persons outside of our company, the execution of unauthorized transactions by employees, errors relating to transaction processing and systems, and breaches of the internal control system and compliance requirements. This risk of loss also includes potential legal actions that could arise as a result of the operational deficiency or as a result of noncompliance with applicable regulatory standards.
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 and to reduce costs. The Corporation’s future success depends, in part, upon its ability to address the needs of its customers by using technology to provide products and services that will satisfy customer demands, as well as to create additional efficiencies in the Corporation’s operations. Failure to successfully keep pace with technological change affecting the financial services industry could have a material adverse impact on the Corporation’s business and, in turn, the Corporation’s financial condition and results of operations.
The Corporation’s earnings could be adversely impacted by incidences of fraud and compliance failures that are not within our direct control
Financial institutions are inherently exposed to fraud risk. A fraud can be perpetrated by a customer of the Bank, an employee, a vendor, or members of the general public. We are most subject to fraud and compliance risk in connection with the origination of loans, ACH transactions, ATM transactions and checking transactions. Our largest fraud risk, associated with the origination of loans, includes the intentional misstatement of information in property appraisals or other underwriting documentation provided to us by third parties. Compliance risk is the risk that loans are not originated in compliance with applicable laws and regulations and our standards. There can be no assurance that we can prevent or
detect acts of fraud or violation of law or our compliance standards by the third parties that we deal with. Repeated incidences of fraud or compliance failures would adversely impact the performance of our loan portfolio.
The Corporation’s information systems may experience an interruption or breach in security
The Corporation relies heavily on communications and information systems to conduct its business. Any failure, interruption or breach in security of these systems could result in failures or disruptions in the Corporation’s customer relationship management, general ledger, deposit, loan and other systems. While the Corporation has policies and procedures designed to prevent or limit the effect of the failure, interruption or security breach of its information systems, there can be no assurance that any such failures, interruptions or security breaches will not occur or, if they do occur, that they will be adequately addressed. The occurrence of any failures, interruptions or security breaches of the Corporation’s information systems could damage the Corporation’s reputation, result in a loss of customer business, subject the Corporation to additional regulatory scrutiny, or expose the Corporation to civil litigation and possible financial liability, any of which could have a material adverse effect on the Corporation’s financial condition and results of operations.
The Corporation has opened new offices
The Corporation has placed a strategic emphasis on expanding its banking office network. Executing this strategy carries risks of slower than anticipated growth in the new offices, which require a significant investment of both financial and personnel resources. Lower than expected loan and deposit growth in new offices can decrease anticipated revenues and net income generated by those offices, and opening new offices could result in more additional expenses than anticipated and divert resources from current core operations.
The geographic concentration of the Corporation’s markets makes the Corporation’s business highly susceptible to local economic conditions
Unlike larger banking organizations that are more geographically diversified, the Corporation’s operations are currently concentrated in three counties located in central Indiana. As a result of this geographic concentration, the Corporation’s financial results depend largely upon economic conditions in these market areas. Deterioration in economic conditions in the Corporation’s market could result in one or more of the following:
· an increase in loan delinquencies;
· an increase in problem assets and foreclosures;
· a decrease in the demand for the Corporation’s products and services; and
· a decrease in the value of collateral for loans, especially real estate, in turn reducing customers’ borrowing power, the value of assets associated with problem loans and collateral coverage.
Future growth or operating results may require the Corporation to raise additional capital but that capital may not be available or it may be dilutive
The Corporation is required by federal and state regulatory authorities to maintain adequate levels of capital to support its operations. To the extent the Corporation’s future operating results erode capital or the Corporation elects to expand through loan growth or acquisition it may be required to raise capital. The Corporation’s ability to raise capital will depend on conditions in the capital markets, which are outside of its control, and on the Corporation’s financial performance. Accordingly, the Corporation cannot be assured of its ability to raise capital when needed or on favorable terms. If the Corporation cannot raise additional capital when needed, it will be subject to increased regulatory supervision and the imposition of restrictions on its growth and business. These could negatively impact the Corporation’s ability to operate or further expand its operations through acquisitions or the establishment of additional branches and may result in increases in operating expenses and reductions in revenues that could have a material adverse effect on its financial condition and results of operations.
The Corporation may not be able to pay dividends in the future in accordance with past practice
The Corporation has historically paid a semi-annual dividend to common stockholders. The payment of dividends is subject to legal and regulatory restrictions. Any payment of dividends in the future will depend, in large part, on the Corporation’s earnings, capital requirements, financial condition and other factors considered relevant by the Corporation’s Board of Directors.
The price of the Corporation’s common stock may be volatile, which may result in losses for investors
General market price declines or market volatility in the future could adversely affect the price of the Corporation’s common stock. In addition, the following factors may cause the market price for shares of the Corporation’s common stock to fluctuate:
· announcements of developments related to the Corporation’s business;
· fluctuations in the Corporation’s results of operations;
· sales or purchases of substantial amounts of the Corporation’s securities in the marketplace;
· general conditions in the Corporation’s banking niche or the worldwide economy;
· a shortfall or excess in revenues or earnings compared to securities analysts’ expectations;
· changes in analysts’ recommendations or projections; and
· the Corporation’s announcement of new acquisitions or other projects.
ITEM 1B.
ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None.
ITEM 2.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
The Corporation is located in a four-story office building in downtown Terre Haute, Indiana that was first occupied in June 1988. It is leased to the Bank. The Bank also owns two other facilities in downtown Terre Haute. One is available for lease and the other is a 50,000-square-foot building housing operations and administrative staff and equipment. In addition, the Bank holds in fee six other branch buildings. One of the branch buildings is a single-story 36,000-square-foot building which is located in a Terre Haute suburban area. Four other branch bank buildings are leased by the Bank. The expiration dates on the four leases are May 31, 2016, February 14, 2016, December 31, 2012 and May 31, 2014.
Facilities of the Corporation’s banking centers in Clay County include three offices in Brazil, Indiana and offices in Clay City and Poland, Indiana. All five buildings are held in fee.
Facilities of the Corporation’s banking centers in Vermillion County include two offices in Clinton, Indiana and offices in Cayuga and Newport, Indiana. All four buildings are held in fee.
Facilities of the Corporation’s banking centers in Sullivan County include offices in Sullivan, Carlisle, Dugger, Farmersburg and Hymera, Indiana. All five buildings are held in fee.
Facilities of the Corporation’s banking center in Greene County include an office in Worthington, Indiana. This building is held in fee.
Facilities of the Corporation’s banking centers in Knox County include offices in Monroe City, Sandborn and Vincennes, Indiana. All three buildings are held in fee.
Facilities of the Corporation’s banking centers in Parke County include two offices in Rockville, Indiana and offices in Marshall, Montezuma and Rosedale, Indiana. All five buildings are held in fee.
Facilities of the Corporation’s banking center in Putnam County include an office in Greencastle, Indiana. This building is held in fee.
Facilities of the Corporation’s banking centers in Crawford County include its main office and a drive-up facility in Robinson, Illinois and a branch facility in Oblong, Illinois. All three of the buildings are held in fee.
Facilities of the Corporation’s banking center in Lawrence County include an office in Lawrenceville, Illinois. This building is held in fee.
Facilities of the Corporation’s banking centers in Livingston include three offices in Pontiac, Illinois. All of the buildings are held in fee.
Facilities of the Corporation’s banking center in McLean County include two offices in Bloomington, Illinois, an office in Downs, Illinois and an office in Gridley, Illinois. These building are all held in fee.
Facilities of the Corporation’s banking center in Wayne County include an office in Fairfield, Illinois. This building is held in fee.
Facilities of the Corporation’s banking center in Jasper County include an office in Newton, Illinois. This building is held in fee.
Facilities of the Corporation’s banking center in Coles County include an office in Charleston, Illinois. This building is held in fee.
Facilities of the Corporation’s banking center in Clark County include an office in Marshall, Illinois. This building is held in fee.
Facilities of the Corporation’s banking center in Champaign County include three offices in Champaign, Illinois, an office
in Mohomet, Illinois, and two offices in Urbana, Illinois. One of the banking centers in Champaign is held in fee while the land is leased. The land lease expires September 6, 2036. One of the banking centers in Champaign is leased and the lease expires on December 31, 2012 and the other banking center in Champaign is leased and the lease expires on December 31, 2014. The banking center in Mohomet is leased and the lease expires on June 14, 2019. One of the banking centers in Urbana is held in fee while the other banking center in Urbana is held in fee while the land is leased and the lease expires on November 30, 2012.
Facilities of the Corporation’s banking center in Vermilion County include four offices in Danville, Illinois, an office in Westville, Illinois, and an office in Ridge Farm, Illinois. One of the buildings in Danville is leased and the lease expires on December 31, 2016 and the other five buildings are held in fee.
Facilities of the Corporation’s banking centers in Richland County include two offices in Olney, Illinois. One building is held in fee and the other building is leased. The expiration date on the lease is March 1, 2015.
The facility of the Corporation’s subsidiary, The Morris Plan Company, includes an office facility in Terre Haute, Indiana. The building is leased by The Morris Plan Company. The expiration date on the lease is October 31, 2020.
Facilities of the Corporation’s subsidiary, Forrest Sherer, Inc., include its main office and one satellite office in Terre Haute, Indiana. The buildings are held in fee by Forrest Sherer, Inc.
ITEM 3
ITEM 3 LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
There are no material pending legal proceedings which involve the Corporation or its subsidiaries, other than ordinary routine litigation incidental to its business.
ITEM 4.
ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable
PART II
ITEM 5.
ITEM 5.
MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES.
MARKET AND DIVIDEND INFORMATION
As of March 8, 2012 shareholders owned 13,237,523 shares of the Corporation’s common stock. The stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “THFF”. On March 8, 2012, approximately 2,183 shareholders held our common stock.
Historically, the Corporation has paid cash dividends semi-annually and currently expects that comparable cash dividends will continue to be paid in the future. The following table gives quarterly high and low trade prices and dividends per share during each quarter for 2011 and 2010.
The Corporation periodically acquires shares of its common stock directly from shareholders in individually negotiated transactions. The Corporation has not adopted a formal policy or adopted a formal program for repurchases of shares of its common stock. There were no purchases of common stock by the Corporation during the quarter covered by this report. The Corporation contributed 46,250 shares of treasury stock to the ESOP in November of 2011.
The graph below represents the five-year total return of the Corporation’s stock. The five year total return for our stock during this time was 8.64%. During this same period, the return on The Russell 2000 Index was only .75% and the SNL Index of Banks $1 - $5 Billion actually had a negative return of 55.23%
First Financial Corporation
ITEM 6.
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
* 2008 and 2007 include $12,800 and $14,068, respectively, of credit card loans that are held-for-sale
ITEM 7.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATION
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
The Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, as well as disclosures found elsewhere in this report are based upon First Financial Corporation’s consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The preparation of these financial statements requires the Corporation to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses. Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant change in the near term relate to the determination of the allowance for loan losses, securities valuation and goodwill. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Allowance for loan losses. The allowance for loan losses represents management’s estimate of losses inherent in the existing loan portfolio. The allowance for loan losses is increased by the provision for loan losses charged to expense and reduced by loans charged off, net of recoveries. The allowance for loan losses is determined based on management’s assessment of several factors: reviews and evaluations of specific loans, changes in the nature and volume of the loan portfolio, current economic and nonperforming loans. Loans are considered impaired if, based on current information and events, it is probable that the Corporation will be unable to collect the scheduled payments of principal or interest according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. When a loan is deemed impaired, impairment is measured by using the fair value of underlying collateral, the present value of the future cash flows discounted at the effective interest rate stipulated
in the loan agreement, or the estimated market value of the loan. In measuring the fair value of the collateral, management uses assumptions (e.g., discount rate) and methodologies (e.g., comparison to the recent selling price of similar assets) consistent with those that would be utilized by unrelated third parties.
Changes in the financial condition of individual borrowers, economic conditions, historical loss experience, or the condition of the various markets in which collateral may be sold may affect the required level of the allowance for loan losses and the associated provision for loan losses. Should cash flow assumptions or market conditions change, a different amount may be recorded for the allowance for loan losses and the associated provision for loan losses.
Securities valuation and potential impairment. Securities available-for-sale are carried at fair value, with unrealized holding gains and losses reported separately in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax. The Corporation obtains market values from a third party on a monthly basis in order to adjust the securities to fair value. Equity securities that do not have readily determinable fair values are carried at cost. Additionally, all securities are required to be evaluated for other than temporary impairment (OTTI). In determining whether a market value decline is other than temporary, management considers the reason for the decline, the extent of the decline, the duration of the decline and whether the Corporation intends to sell a security or is more likely than not to be required to sell a security before recovery of its amortized cost. If an entity intends to sell or it is more likely than not it will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis, the OTTI shall be recognized in earnings equal to the entire difference between the investment’s amortized cost basis and its fair value at the balance sheet date. If an entity does not intend to sell the security and it is not more likely than not that the entity will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis less any current-period loss, the OTTI shall be separated into the amount representing the credit loss and the amount related to all other factors. The amount of the total OTTI related to the credit loss is determined based on the present value of cash flows expected to be collected and is recognized in earnings.
Changes in credit ratings, financial condition of underlying debtors, default experience and market liquidity affect the conclusions on whether securities are other-than-temporarily impaired. Additional losses may be recorded through earnings for other than temporary impairment, should there be an adverse change in the expected cash flows for these investments.
Goodwill. The carrying value of goodwill requires management to use estimates and assumptions about the fair value of the reporting unit compared to its book value. An impairment analysis is prepared on an annual basis. Fair values of the reporting units are determined by an analysis which considers cash flows streams, profitability and estimated market values of the reporting unit. The majority of the Corporation’s goodwill is recorded at First Financial Bank, N. A.
Management believes the accounting estimates related to the allowance for loan losses, valuation of investment securities and the valuation of goodwill are “critical accounting estimates” because: (1) the estimates are highly susceptible to change from period to period because they require management to make assumptions concerning, among other factors, the changes in the types and volumes of the portfolios, valuation assumptions, and economic conditions, and (2) the impact of recognizing an impairment or loan loss could have a material effect on the Corporation’s assets reported on the balance sheet as well as net income.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - SUMMARY FOR 2011
COMPARISON OF 2011 TO 2010
Net income for 2011 was $37.2 million, or $2.83 per share. This represents a 32.6% increase in net income and a 32.2% increase in earnings per share, compared to 2010. Return on assets at December 31, 2011 increased 34.2% to 1.49% compared to 1.11% at December 31, 2010.
NET INTEREST INCOME
The principal source of the Corporation’s earnings is net interest income, which represents the difference between interest earned on loans and investments and the interest cost associated with deposits and other sources of funding .Net interest income was increased in 2011 to $99.2 million compared to $96.6 million in 2010. Total average interest earning assets remained stable at $2.33 billion in 2011 from $2.34 billion in 2010. The tax-equivalent yield on these assets decreased to 5.23% in 2011 from 5.50% in 2010. Total average interest-bearing liabilities decreased to $1.76 billion in 2011 from $1.84 billion in 2010. The average cost of these interest-bearing liabilities decreased to 0.98% in 2011 from 1.47% in 2010.
The net interest margin increased from 4.35% in 2010 to 4.50% in 2011. This increase is primarily the result of the decreased costs of funding provided by interest-bearing liabilities. Earning asset yields decreased 27 basis points while the rate on interest-bearing liabilities decreased by 49 basis points.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET - AVERAGE BALANCES AND INTEREST RATES
(1) For purposes of these computations, nonaccruing loans are included in the daily average loan amounts outstanding.
(2) Interest income includes the effect of tax equivalent adjustments using a federal tax rate of 35%.
The following table sets forth the components of net interest income due to changes in volume and rate. The table information compares 2011 to 2010 and 2010 to 2009.
(1) For purposes of these computations, nonaccruing loans are included in the daily average loan amounts outstanding.
(2) Interest income includes the effect of tax equivalent adjustments using a federal tax rate of 35%.
PROVISION FOR LOAN LOSSES
The provision for loan losses charged to expense is based upon credit loss experience and the results of a detailed analysis estimating an appropriate and adequate allowance for loan losses. The analysis includes the evaluation of impaired loans as prescribed under Accounting Standards Codification (ASC-310), pooled loans as prescribed under ASC 450-10, and economic and other risk factors as outlined in various Joint Interagency Statements issued by the bank regulatory agencies. For the year ended December 31, 2011, the provision for loan losses was $5.8 million net, a decrease of $3.4 million, or 37.4%, compared to 2010. The 2011 provision was reduced by $125 thousand for the offset of loans identified in the analysis of potential loan losses that are subject to the loss share agreement with the FDIC. Of those anticipated losses, 80% can be reimbursed by the FDIC and the FDIC indemnification asset has a corresponding increase of $125 thousand for those anticipated losses. The decrease was the result of several components related to the analysis of the Corporation’s Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses, including decreasing delinquencies.
Net charge-offs for 2011 were $9.0 million as compared to $8.0 million for 2010 and $8.7 million for 2009. The charge off of specific allocations on collateral dependent loans drove the increase in charge-offs as specific allowance allocations to impaired loans decreased to $3.2 million at year end 2011 from $4.5 million at year end 2010. Non-accrual loans decreased to $38.1 million at December 31, 2011 from $38.5 million at December 31, 2010. The decrease occurred despite a $4.7 million increase in non-accruals from the acquisition of Freestar Bank and $8.5 million related to a particular loan relationship which we restructured into an A and B note. The terms of the A note reflect a current market rate and structure, while the B note is fully reserved at December 31, 2011.The entire relationship is on non-accrual. Loans past due 90 days and still on accrual decreased 35.7% to $2.0 million compared to $3.2 million at December 31, 2010.
NON-INTEREST INCOME
Non-interest income of $33.3 million increased $3.5 million from the $29.8 million earned in 2010. The reduction in other-than-temporary impairment of $4.2 million is the primary reason for this increase.
NON-INTEREST EXPENSES
Non-interest expenses decreased to $75.2 million for 2011 from $77.2 million for 2010. FDIC expense decreased by $1.0 million in 2011 compared to 2010. Expenses related to the processing of creditcards ended in 2010 after the sale of the portfolio at the end of 2009 and the decline in those expenses was $489 thousand. Incentive expenses were down in 2011 approximately $1.0 million as the previous plan expired at the end of 2010.
INCOME TAXES
The Corporation’s federal income tax provision was $14.4 million in 2011 compared to a provision of $12.0 million in 2010. The overall effective tax rate in 2011 of 27.9% decreased as compared to a 2010 effective rate of 29.9% as nontaxable income increased.
COMPARISON OF 2010 TO 2009
Net income for 2010 was $28.0 million or $2.14 per share compared to $22.7 million in 2009 or $1.73 per share. This increase in net income was primarily driven by the improved net interest margin of 22 basis points from 4.13% to 4.35%.
Net interest income increased $9.6 million in 2010 compared to 2009 as total average interest-earning assets increased $101.4 million. This increase was primarily the result of the cost of funding declining at a faster pace than the decline in the earnings on earning assets. The provision for loan losses decreased $2.7 million from $11.9 million in 2009 to $9.2 million in 2010. Net non-interest income and expense increased $2.6 million from 2009 to 2010. Non-interest expenses increased $3.8 million while non-interest income increased $1.3 million. The increase in non-interest income resulted primarily from reduced impairment losses.
The provision for income taxes increased $4.4 million from 2009 to 2010 and the effective tax rate increased 5% in 2010 from 2009 as nontaxable income declined slightly and taxable income increased.
COMPARISON AND DISCUSSION OF 2011 BALANCE SHEET TO 2010
The Corporation’s total assets increased 20.5% or $501.8 million at December 31, 2011, from a year earlier. Approximately $414.0 million of this increase was from the acquisition of Freestar Bank at the end of 2011. Available-for-sale securities increased $105.4 million at December 31, 2011, from the previous year. Loans, net of unearned income, increased by $253.6 million to $1.89 billion. Deposits increased by $371.5 million while borrowings increased by $86.6 million. Total shareholders’ equity increased $25.2 million to $347.0 million at December 31, 2011. This increase in shareholders’ equity was not impacted by the acquisition. Net income was partially offset by higher dividends. There were also 46,250 shares from the treasury with a value of $1.56 million that were contributed to the ESOP plan in 2011 compared to 45,000 shares with a value of $1.35 million in 2010.
Following is an analysis of the components of the Corporation’s balance sheet.
SECURITIES
The Corporation’s investment strategy seeks to maximize income from the investment portfolio while using it as a risk management tool and ensuring safety of principal and capital. During 2011 the portfolio’s balance increased by 18.8% driven by approximately $95 million in securities acquired in the Freestar acquisition. The average life of the portfolio decreased from 4.5 years in 2010 to 4.0 years in 2011. The portfolio structure will continue to provide cash flows to be reinvested during 2012.
(1) Distribution of maturities is based on the estimated life of the asset.
(1) Distribution of maturities is based on the estimated average life of the asset.
LOAN PORTFOLIO
Loans outstanding by major category as of December 31 for each of the last five years and the maturities at year end 2011 are set forth in the following analyses.
ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES
The activity in the Corporation’s allowance for loan losses is shown in the following analysis:
* In 2011 the provision charged to expense was reduced by $125 thousand for the increase to the FDIC Indemnification asset. In 2010 it was reduced by $1.7 million.
The allowance is maintained at an amount management believes sufficient to absorb probable incurred losses in the loan portfolio. Monitoring loan quality and maintaining an adequate allowance is an ongoing process overseen by senior management and the loan review function. On at least a quarterly basis, a formal analysis of the adequacy of the allowance is prepared and reviewed by management and the Board of Directors. This analysis serves as a point in time assessment of the level of the allowance and serves as a basis for provisions for loan losses. The loan quality monitoring process includes assigning loan grades and the use of a watch list to identify loans of concern.
Included in the $1.9 billion of loans outstanding at December 31, 2011 are $35.0 million of covered loans, those loans acquired with the purchase of the First National Bank of Danville from the FDIC that are covered by the loss sharing agreement.
Also included are $245 million of loan acquired on December 30 in the Freestar acquisition. These acquired loans are recorded at fair value with no carryover of Freestar’s allowance for loan losses. The loans acquired had a contractual balance due of $254 million. The acquired portfolio includes purchased credit impaired loans with a contractual balance due of $57 million and a fair value of $50 million.
The analysis of the allowance for loan losses includes the allocation of specific amounts of the allowance to individual problem loans, generally based on an analysis of the collateral securing those loans. Portions of the allowance are also allocated to loan portfolios, based upon a variety of factors including historical loss experience, trends in the type and volume of the loan portfolios, trends in delinquent and non-performing loans, and economic trends affecting our market. These components are added together and compared to the balance of our allowance at the evaluation date. The Corporation’s unallocated allowance position of $505 thousand at December 31, 2011 has decreased from $2.1 million at December 31, 2010. The unallocated position increased in 2010. While net charge offs, particularly in the consumer and mortgage portfolios, declined in 2010, the unallocated position was increased in response to higher levels of past due loans and concern that the decline in charge offs would not be sustained. While consumer and mortgage loan charge offs increased somewhat in 2011, the positive charge off trends continued and management determined it was appropriate to reduce the unallocated allowance. Management has determined the unallocated allowance position to be reasonable based on the trend analysis of the loan portfolio. Non-performing loans of $56.4 million at December 31, 2011 decreased from $58.8 million at December 31, 2010. There was an additional $4.7 million of non-accrual loans added with the acquisition of Freestar Bank. Net charge-offs totaled $9.0 million compared to $8.0 million during 2010. The charge off of specific allocations on collateral dependent loans contributed to the increase in charge-offs and specific allowance allocations to impaired loans decreased to $3.2 million at year end 2011 from $4.5 million at year end 2010. The table below presents the allocation of the allowance to the loan portfolios at year-end.
NONPERFORMING LOANS
Management monitors the components and status of nonperforming loans as a part of the evaluation procedures used in determining the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses. It is the Corporation’s policy to discontinue the accrual of interest on loans where, in management’s opinion, serious doubt exists as to collectability. The amounts shown below represent non-accrual loans, loans which have been restructured to provide for a reduction or deferral of interest or principal because of deterioration in the financial condition of the borrower and those loans which are past due more than 90 days where the Corporation continues to accrue interest. In 2010 and continuing in 2011 the increase in restructured loans mainly is due to five commercial loans totaling $14.9 million while the remainder is mostly smaller balance residential loans. The current economic environment has resulted in an increase in the use of restructured loans as a means to manage problem loans. Some restructured loans are also on non-accrual and are only included in the total of restructured loans.
The ratio of the allowance for loan losses as a percentage of nonperforming loans was 34% at December 31, 2011, compared to 38% in 2010. The ratio of nonperforming loans excluding covered loans was 41% at December 31, 2011 and 49% at December 31, 2010. There were $3.6 and $3.8 million of covered loans included in restructured loans in 2011 and 2010 respectively. The following loan categories comprise significant components of the nonperforming loans at December 31, 2011 and 2010:
Management considers the present allowance to be appropriate and adequate to cover probable incurred losses inherent in the loan portfolio based on the current economic environment. However, future economic changes cannot be predicted. Deteriorating economic conditions could result in an increase in the risk characteristics of the loan portfolio and an increase in the potential for loan losses.
DEPOSITS
The information below presents the average amount of deposits and rates paid on those deposits for 2011, 2010 and 2009.
The maturities of certificates of deposit of $100 thousand or more outstanding at December 31, 2011, are summarized as follows:
OTHER BORROWINGS
Advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank increased to $140.2 million in 2011 compared to $125.8 million in 2010. The FHLB advances acquired in the acquisition had a fair value of $16.6 million. Other borrowings also increased $6.2 million in trust preferred securities that were included in the assumption of liabilities of PNB Holding Co, the parent company of Freestar Bank.. The Asset/Liability Committee reviews these investments and funding sources and considers the related strategies on a monthly basis. See Interest Rate Sensitivity and Liquidity below for more information.
CAPITAL RESOURCES
Bank regulatory agencies have established capital adequacy standards which are used extensively in their monitoring and control of the industry. These standards relate capital to level of risk by assigning different weightings to assets and certain off-balance-sheet activity. As shown in the footnote to the consolidated financial statements (“Regulatory Matters”), the Corporation’s capital exceeds the requirements to be considered well capitalized at December 31, 2011.
First Financial Corporation’s objective continues to be to maintain adequate capital to merit the confidence of its customers and shareholders. To warrant this confidence, the Corporation’s management maintains a capital position which they believe is sufficient to absorb unforeseen financial shocks without unnecessarily restricting dividends to its shareholders. The Corporation’s dividend payout ratio for 2011 and 2010 was 33.3% and 43.1%, respectively. The Corporation expects to continue its policy of paying regular cash dividends, subject to future earnings and regulatory restrictions and capital requirements.
INTEREST RATE SENSITIVITY AND LIQUIDITY
First Financial Corporation has established risk measures, limits and policy guidelines for managing interest rate risk and liquidity. Responsibility for management of these functions resides with the Asset/Liability Committee. The primary goal of the Asset/Liability Committee is to maximize net interest income within the interest rate risk limits approved by the Board of Directors.
Interest Rate Risk: Management considers interest rate risk to be the Corporation’s most significant market risk. Interest rate risk is the exposure to changes in net interest income as a result of changes in interest rates. Consistency in the Corporation’s net interest income is largely dependent on the effective management of this risk.. The Asset/Liability position is measured using sophisticated risk management tools, including earnings simulation and market value of equity sensitivity analysis. These tools allow management to quantify and monitor both short-and long-term exposure to interest rate risk. Simulation modeling measures the effects of changes in interest rates, changes in the shape of the yield curve and the effects of embedded options on net interest income. This measure projects earnings in the various environments over the next three years. It is important to note that measures of interest rate risk have limitations and are dependent on various assumptions. These assumptions are inherently uncertain and, as a result, the model cannot precisely predict the impact of interest rate fluctuations on net interest income. Actual results will differ from simulated results due to timing, frequency and amount of interest rate changes as well as overall
market conditions. The Committee has performed a thorough analysis of these assumptions and believes them to be valid and theoretically sound. These assumptions are continuously monitored for behavioral changes.
The Corporation from time to time utilizes derivatives to manage interest rate risk. Management continuously evaluates the merits of such interest rate risk products but does not anticipate the use of such products to become a major part of the Corporation’s risk management strategy.
The table below shows the Corporation’s estimated sensitivity profile as of December 31, 2011. The change in interest rates assumes a parallel shift in interest rates of 100 and 200 basis points. Given a 100 basis point increase in rates, net interest income would increase 1.55% over the next 12 months and increase 4.93% over the following 12 months. Given a 100 basis point decrease in rates, net interest income would decrease 2.47% over the next 12 months and decrease 6.87% over the following 12 months. These estimates assume all rate changes occur overnight and management takes no action as a result of this change.
Typical rate shock analysis does not reflect management’s ability to react and thereby reduce the effects of rate changes, and represents a worst-case scenario.
Liquidity Risk Liquidity is measured by the bank’s ability to raise funds to meet the obligations of its customers, including deposit withdrawals and credit needs. This is accomplished primarily by maintaining sufficient liquid assets in the form of investment securities and core deposits. The Corporation has $8.5 million of investments that mature throughout the coming 12 months. The Corporation also anticipates $127.6 million of principal payments from mortgage-backed securities. Given the current rate environment, the Corporation anticipates $14.9 million in securities to be called within the next 12 months.
CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS, COMMITMENTS, CONTINGENT LIABILITIES AND OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS
The Corporation has various financial obligations, including contractual obligations and commitments that may require future cash payments.
Contractual Obligations: The following table presents, as of December 31, 2011, significant fixed and determinable contractual obligations to third parties by payment date. Further discussion of the nature of each obligation is included in the referenced note to the consolidated financial statements.
The Corporation has obligations under its pension, supplemental executive retirement plan and post-retirement medical benefits plan as described in Note 15 to the consolidated financial statements.
Commitments: The following table details the amount and expected maturities of significant commitments as of December 31, 2011. Further discussion of these commitments is included in Note 14 to the consolidated financial statements.
Commitments to extend credit, including loan commitments, standby and commercial letters of credit do not necessarily represent future cash requirements, in that these commitments often expire without being drawn upon.
OUTLOOK
The Corporation’s primary market is west-central Indiana and east-central Illinois. The market is primarily driven by the retail, higher education and health care industries. Typically, this market does not expand or contract at rates that are experienced by both the state and national economies. It is not anticipated that labor conditions will improve dramatically in 2012, although a gradual improvement in both the labor markets and retail sales is anticipated. The Corporation anticipates moderate growth opportunities in 2012.
ITEM 7A.
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
The information contained under the caption “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Market Risk” on pages 26 and 27 of this Form 10-K is incorporated herein by reference in response to this item.
ITEM 8.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
The management of First Financial Corporation (the “Corporation”) has prepared and is responsible for the preparation and accuracy of the consolidated financial statements and related financial information included in the Annual Report.
The management of 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. 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 generally accepted accounting principles. The Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that: (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the Corporation; (ii) 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 Corporation are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the Corporation; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the Corporation’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.
Management assessed the Corporation’s system of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2011, in relation to criteria for effective internal control over financial reporting as described in “Internal Control-Integrated Framework,” issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. This assessment excluded internal control over financial reporting for FreeStar Bank as allowed by the SEC for current year acquisitions. FreeStar was acquired on December 30,2011 and represented 14% of assets at December 31, 2011.Based on this assessment, management concluded that, as of December 30, 2011, its system of internal control over financial reporting is effective and meets the criteria of the “Internal Control-Integrated Framework.”
Crowe Horwath LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, has issued a report dated March 15, 2012 on the Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting.
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Shareholders and Board of Directors of First Financial Corporation:
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of First Financial Corporation as of December 31, 2011 and 2010 and the related consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income, changes in shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2011. We also have audited First Financial Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2011, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). First Financial Corporation’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 these financial statements and an opinion on the company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audits of the financial statements included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. 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.
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.
As permitted, the Corporation excluded the operations of FreeStar Bank, a financial institution acquired during 2011, from the scope of management’s report on internal control over financial reporting. As such, this entity has also been excluded from the scope of our audit of internal control over financial reporting.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of First Financial Corporation as of December 31, 2011 and 2010, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2011, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also in our opinion First Financial Corporation maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2011, based on criteria established in Internal Control -Integrated Framework issued by the COSO.
Crowe Horwath LLP
Indianapolis, Indiana March 15, 2012
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
See accompanying notes.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
See accompanying notes.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
See accompanying notes.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
See accompanying notes.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. BUSINESS AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES:
BUSINESS
Organization: The consolidated financial statements of First Financial Corporation and its subsidiaries (the Corporation) include the parent company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, First Financial Bank, N.A. headquartered in Vigo County, Indiana, The Morris Plan Company of Terre Haute (Morris Plan), and Forrest Sherer Inc., a full-line insurance agency headquartered in Terre Haute, Indiana. Inter-company transactions and balances have been eliminated.
First Financial Bank also has two investment subsidiaries, Portfolio Management Specialists A (Specialists A) and Portfolio Management Specialists B (Specialists B), which were established to hold and manage certain assets as part of a strategy to better manage various income streams and provide opportunities for capital creation as needed. Specialists A and Specialists B subsequently entered into a limited partnership agreement, Global Portfolio Limited Partners. Portfolio Management Specialists B also owns First Financial Real Estate, LLC. At December 31, 2011, $583.9 million of securities and loans were owned by these subsidiaries. Specialists A, Specialists B, Global Portfolio Limited Partners and First Financial Real Estate LLC are included in the consolidated financial statements.
The Corporation, which is headquartered in Terre Haute, Indiana, offers a wide variety of financial services including commercial, mortgage and consumer lending, lease financing, trust account services and depositor services through its four subsidiaries. The Corporation’s primary source of revenue is derived from loans to customers, primarily middle-income individuals, and investment activities.
The Corporation operates 65 branches in west-central Indiana and east-central Illinois. First Financial Bank is the largest bank in Vigo County. It operates 11 full-service banking branches within the county; five in Clay County, Indiana; one in Greene County, Indiana; three in Knox County, Indiana; five in Parke County, Indiana; one in Putnam County, Indiana; five in Sullivan County, Indiana; four in Vermillion County, Indiana; six in Champaign County, Illinois; one in Clark County, Illinois; one in Coles County, Illinois; three in Crawford County, Illinois; one in Jasper County, Illinois; one in Lawrence County, Illinois; three in Livingston County, Illinois; four in McLean County, Illinois; two in Richland County, Illinois; seven in Vermilion County, Illinois; and one in Wayne County, Illinois. It also has a main office in downtown Terre Haute and an operations center/office building in southern Terre Haute.
Regulatory Agencies: First Financial Corporation is a multi-bank holding company and as such is regulated by various banking agencies. The holding company is regulated by the Seventh District of the Federal Reserve System. The national bank subsidiary is regulated by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency. The state bank subsidiary is jointly regulated by the state banking organization and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Use of Estimates: To prepare financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, management makes estimates and assumptions based on available information. These estimates and assumptions affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and disclosures provided, and actual results could differ. The allowance for loan losses, carrying value of intangible assets, loan servicing rights, other-than-temporary securities impairment and the fair values of financial instruments are particularly subject to change.
Cash Flows: Cash and cash equivalents include cash and demand deposits with other financial institutions. Net cash flows are reported for customer loan and deposit transactions and short-term borrowings. Non-cash transactions include loans transferred to other real estate of $3.5 million, $4.5 million and $4.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 respectively.
Securities: The Corporation classifies all securities as “available for sale.” Securities are classified as available for sale when they might be sold before maturity. Securities available for sale are carried at fair value with unrealized holdings gains and losses, net of taxes, reported in other comprehensive income within shareholders’ equity.
Interest income includes amortization of purchase premium or discount. Premiums and discounts are amortized on the level yield method without anticipating prepayments. Mortgage-backed securities are amortized over the expected life. Realized gains and losses on sales are based on the amortized cost of the security sold. Management evaluates securities for other-than temporary impairment (OTTI) at least on a quarterly basis, and more frequently when economic or market conditions warrant such an evaluation.
Loans: Loans that management has the intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future until maturity or pay-off are reported at the principal balance outstanding, net of unearned interest, purchase premiums and discounts, deferred loan fees and costs, and allowance for loan losses. Loans held for sale are reported at the lower of cost or market, on an aggregate basis. Interest income is accrued on the unpaid principal balance and includes amortization of net deferred loan fees and costs over the loan term without anticipating prepayments. The recorded investment in loans includes accrued interest receivable. Interest income is not reported when full loan repayment is in doubt, typically when the loan is impaired or payments are significantly past due. Past-due status is based on the contractual terms of the loan.
All interest accrued but not received for loans placed on nonaccrual is reversed against interest income. Interest received on such loans is accounted for on the cash-basis or cost-recovery method, until qualifying for return to accrual. Loans are returned to accrual status when all the principal and interest amounts contractually due are brought current and future payments are reasonably assured. In all cases, loans are placed on non-accrual or charged-off if collection of principal or interest is considered doubtful. The above policies are consistent for all classes of loans.
Certain Purchased Loans: The Corporation purchases individual loans and groups of loans, some of which have shown evidence of credit deterioration since origination. These purchased loans are recorded at the amount paid, such that there is no carryover of the seller’s allowance for loan losses. After acquisition, losses are recognized by an increase in the allowance for loan losses. Such purchased loans are accounted for individually. The Corporation estimates the amount and timing of expected cash flows for each purchased loan, and the expected cash flows in excess of amount paid are recorded as interest income over the remaining life of the loan (accretable yield). The excess of the loan’s contractual principal and interest over expected cash flows is not recorded (nonaccretable difference).
Over the life of the loan, expected cash flows continue to be estimated. If the present value of expected cash flows is less than the carrying amount, a provision for loan loss is recorded. If the present value of expected cash flows is greater than the carrying amount, it is recognized as part of future interest income.
Concentration of Credit Risk: Most of the Corporation’s business activity is with customers located within west central Indiana and east central Illinois. Therefore, the Corporation’s exposure to credit risk is significantly affected by changes in the economy of this area. A major economic downturn in this area would have a negative effect on the Corporation’s loan portfolio.
Allowance for Loan Losses: The allowance for loan losses is a valuation allowance for probable incurred credit losses. Loan losses are charged against the allowance when management believes the uncollectibility of a loan balance is confirmed. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance. Management estimates the allowance balance required using past loan loss experience, the nature and volume of the portfolio, information about specific borrower situations and estimated collateral values, economic conditions and other factors. Allocations of the allowance may be made for specific loans, but the entire allowance is available for any loan that, in management’s judgment, should be charged off. The allowance consists of specific and general components. The specific component relates to loans that are individually classified as impaired or loans otherwise classified as substandard or doubtful. The general component covers non-classified loans and is based on historical loss experience adjusted for current factors.
A loan is impaired when full payment under the loan terms is not expected. Loans for which the terms have been modified, and for which the borrower is experiencing financial difficulties, are considered troubled debt restructurings and classified as impaired. Impairment is evaluated in total for smaller-balance loans of similar nature such as residential mortgages and consumer loans, and on an individual basis for other loans. If a loan is impaired, a portion of the allowance is allocated so that the loan is reported, net, at the present value of estimated future cash flows, using the loan’s existing rate, or at the fair value of collateral if repayment is expected solely from the collateral. Large groups of smaller balance homogeneous loans, such as consumer and residential real estate loans, are collectively evaluated for impairment and, accordingly, they are not separately identified for impairment disclosures.
The general component covers non-classified loans and is based on historical loss experience adjusted for current factors. The historical loss experience is based on the actual loss history experienced over the most recent four years, using a weighted average which places more emphasis on the more current years within the loss history window. This actual loss experience is supplemented with other current factors based on the risks present for each portfolio segment. These current factors include consideration of the following: levels of and trends in delinquent, classified, and impaired loans; levels of and trends in charge-offs and recoveries; national and local economic trends and conditions; changes in lending policies and procedures; trends in volume and terms of loans; experience, ability, and depth of lending management and other relevant staff; credit concentrations; value of underlying collateral for collateral dependent loans; and other external factors such as competition and legal and regulatory requirements. The following portfolio segments have been identified: commercial loans, residential loans and consumer loans. Overall, historical loss rates for the Corporation’s portfolio segments have remained low during this tough economic cycle. This is primarily attributable to the Corporation’s conservative lending practices. Local economic conditions, including elevated unemployment rates, resulted in higher consumer loan delinquencies. For these reasons, consumer loans have the highest adjustments to the historical loss rate. These same factors along with declining real estate values resulted in the residential loan portfolio segment having the next highest level of adjustment to the historical loss rate. The commercial loan portfolio segment had the lowest level of adjustment to the historical loss rate. Adjustments were made for the increasing levels of and trends in delinquent, classified and impaired commercial loans. Commercial loans are generally well secured, which mitigates the risk of loss and has contributed to the low historical loss rate.
FDIC Indemnification Asset: The FDIC indemnification asset results from the loss share agreements in the 2009 FDIC-assisted transaction. The asset is measured separately from the related covered assets as they are not contractually embedded in the assets and are not transferable with the assets should the Corporation choose to dispose of them. It represents the acquisition date fair value of expected reimbursements from the FDIC which was determined to be $12.1 million. Pursuant to the terms of the loss sharing agreement, covered loans and other real estate are subject to a stated loss threshold whereby the FDIC will reimburse the Corporation for up to 95% of losses incurred. These expected reimbursements do not include reimbursable amounts related to future covered expenditures. These cash flows are discounted to reflect a metric of uncertainty of the timing and receipt of the loss sharing reimbursement from the FDIC. This asset decreases when losses are realized and claims are paid by the FDIC or when customers repay their loans in full and expected losses do not occur. This asset also increases when estimated future losses increase. When estimated future losses increase, the Corporation records a provision for loan losses and increases its allowance for loan losses accordingly. The related increase in the FDIC indemnification asset is recorded as an offset to the provision for loan losses. During 2011 and 2010, the provision for loan losses was offset by $125 thousand and $1.7 million related to the increases in the FDIC indemnification asset.
Foreclosed Assets: Assets acquired through or instead of loan foreclosures are initially recorded at fair value less estimated selling costs when acquired, establishing a new cost basis. These assets are subsequently accounted for at lower of cost or fair valueless estimated costs to sell. If fair value declines, a valuation allowance is recorded through expense. Costs after acquisition are expensed.
Premises and Equipment: Land is carried at cost. Premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed over the useful lives of the assets, which range from 3 to 33 years for furniture and equipment and 5 to 39 years for buildings and leasehold improvements.
Restricted Stock: Restricted stock includes Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) of Indianapolis and Chicago and Federal Reserve stock. This restricted stock is carried at cost and periodically evaluated for impairment. Because this stock is viewed as a long-term investment, impairment is based on ultimate recovery of par value. Both cash and stock dividends are reported as income.
Servicing Rights: Servicing rights are recognized separately when they are acquired through sales of loans. When mortgage loans are sold, servicing rights are initially recorded at fair value with the income statement effect recorded in gains on sales of loans. Fair value is based on market prices for comparable mortgage servicing contracts, when available, or alternatively, is based on third-party valuations that incorporate assumptions that market participants would use in estimating future net servicing income, such as the cost to service, the discount rate, ancillary income, prepayment speeds and default rates and losses. All classes of servicing assets are subsequently measured using the amortization method, which requires servicing rights to be amortized into non-interest income in proportion to, and over the period of, the estimated future net servicing income of the underlying loans.
Servicing assets are evaluated for impairment based upon the fair value of the rights as compared to carrying amount. Impairment is determined by stratifying rights into groupings based on predominant risk characteristics, such as interest rate, loan type and investor type. Impairment is recognized through a valuation allowance for an individual grouping, to the extent that fair value is less than the carrying amount. If the Corporation later determines that all or a portion of the impairment no longer exists for a particular grouping, a reduction of the allowance may be recorded as an increase to income. Changes in valuation allowances are reported with Other Service Fees on the income statement. The fair values of servicing rights are subject to significant fluctuations as a result of changes in estimated and actual prepayment speeds and default rates and losses.
Servicing fee income, which is included in Other Service Fees on the income statement, is for fees earned for servicing loans.
The fees are based on a contractual percentage of the outstanding principal or a fixed amount per loan and are recorded as income when earned. The amortization of mortgage servicing rights is netted against loan servicing fee income. Servicing fees totaled $1,159 thousand, $1,153 thousand and $958 thousand for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009. Late fees and ancillary fees related to loan servicing are not material.
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 Corporation, 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 Corporation does not maintain effective control over the transferred assets through an agreement to repurchase them before their maturity.
Bank-Owned Life Insurance: The Corporation has purchased life insurance policies on certain key executives. Bank-owned life insurance is recorded at its cash surrender value, or the amount that can be realized. Income on the investments in life insurance is included in other interest income.
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets: Goodwill resulting from business combinations prior to January 1, 2009 represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the net assets of businesses acquired. Goodwill resulting from business combinations after January 1, 2009 represents the future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired that are not individually identified and separately recognized. Goodwill and intangible assets acquired in a purchase business combination and determined to have an indefinite useful life are not amortized, but tested for impairment at least annually. The Corporation has selected May 31 as the date to perform the annual impairment test. Intangible assets with definite useful lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives to their estimated residual values. Goodwill is the only intangible asset with an indefinite life on our balance sheet.
Other intangible assets consist of core deposit and acquired customer relationship intangible assets arising from the whole bank, insurance agency and branch acquisitions. They are initially measured at fair value and then are amortized on an accelerated basis over their estimated useful lives, which are 12 and 10 years, respectively.
Long-Term Assets: Premises and equipment and other long-term assets are reviewed for impairment when events indicate their carrying amount may not be recoverable from future undiscounted cash flows. If impaired, the assets are recorded at fair value.
Benefit 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 amount contributed is determined by a formula as decided by the Board of Directors. Deferred compensation and supplemental retirement plan expense allocates the benefits over years of service.
Employee Stock Ownership Plan: Shares of treasury stock are issued to the ESOP and compensation expense is recognized based upon the total market price of shares when contributed.
Deferred Compensation Plan: A deferred compensation plan covers all directors. Under the plan, the Corporation pays each director, or their beneficiary, the amount of fees deferred plus interest over 10 years, beginning when the director achieves age 65. A liability is accrued for the obligation under these plans. The expense incurred for the deferred compensation for each of the last three years was $144 thousand, $183 thousand and $184 thousand, resulting in a deferred compensation liability of $2.6 million and $2.6 million as of year-end 2011 and 2010.
Incentive Plans: A long-term incentive plan established in 2000 provides for the payment of incentive rewards as a 15-year annuity to all directors and certain key officers. That plan was in place through December 31, 2009, and compensation expense is recognized over the service period. Payments under the plan generally do not begin until the earlier of January 1, 2015, or the January 1 immediately following the year in which the participant reaches age 65. There was no compensation expense related to this plan for 2011 and 2010and the compensation expense for 2009 was $2.3 million, resulting in a liability of $15.4 million and $15.4 million as of year-end 2011 and 2010. In 2010 the Corporation adopted incentive compensation plans designed to reward key officers based on certain performance measures. The short-term portion of the plan is paid out within 75 days of year end and the long-term plan vests over a three year period and will payout within 75 days of the three year vesting period beginning with December 31, 2013. The compensation related to the plans in 2011 and 2010 was $972 thousand and $2.2 million and resulted in a liability of $2.2 million at both December 31, 2011 and 2010.
Income Taxes: Income tax expense is the total of the current year income tax due or refundable and the change in deferred tax assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are the expected future tax amounts for the temporary differences between carrying amounts and tax bases of assets and liabilities, computed using enacted tax rates. A valuation allowance, if needed, reduces deferred tax assets to the amount expected to be realized.
A 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, with a tax examination being presumed to occur. The amount recognized is the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized on examination. For tax positions not meeting the “more likely than not” test, no tax benefit is recorded
The Corporation recognizes interest and/or penalties related to income tax matters in income tax expense.
Loan Commitments and Related Financial Instruments: Financial instruments include credit instruments, such as commitments to make loans and standby 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.
Earnings Per Share: Earnings per common share is net income divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. The Corporation does not have any potentially dilutive securities. Earnings and dividends per share are restated for stock splits and dividends through the date of issue of the financial statements.
Comprehensive Income: Comprehensive income consists of net income and other comprehensive income. Other comprehensive income includes unrealized gains and losses on securities available for sale and changes in the funded status of the retirement plans, which are also recognized as separate components of equity.
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 of range of loss can be reasonably estimated. Management does not believe there are currently such matters that will have a material effect on the financial statements.
Dividend Restriction: Banking regulations require maintaining certain capital levels and may limit the dividends paid by the bank to the holding company or by the holding company to shareholders.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments: Fair values of financial instruments are estimated using relevant market information and other assumptions, as more fully disclosed in a separate note. 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 market conditions could significantly affect the estimates.
Operating Segment: While the Corporation’s chief decision-makers monitor the revenue streams of the various products and services, the operating results of significant segments are similar and operations are managed and financial performance is evaluated on a corporate-wide basis. Accordingly, all of the Corporation’s financial service operations are considered by management to be aggregated in one reportable operating segment, which is banking.
Adoption of New Accounting Standards: In April 2011, the FASB amended existing guidance for assisting a creditor in determining whether a restructuring is a troubled debt restructuring. The amendments clarify the guidance for a creditor’s evaluation of whether it has granted a concession and whether a debtor is experiencing financial difficulties. With regard to determining whether a concession has been granted, the ASU clarifies that creditors are precluded from using the effective interest method to determine whether a concession has been granted. In the absence of using the effective interest method, a creditor must now focus on other considerations such as the value of the underlying collateral, evaluation of other collateral or guarantees, the debtor’s ability to access other funds at market rates, interest rate increases and whether the restructuring results in a delay in payment that is insignificant. This guidance is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after June 15, 2011, and should be applied retrospectively to the beginning of the annual period of adoption. For purposes of measuring impairment on newly identified troubled debt restructurings, the amendments should be applied prospectively for the first interim or annual period beginning on or after June 15, 2011. This amendment did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position or results of operations.
In June 2011, the FASB amended existing guidance and eliminated the option to present the components of other comprehensive income as a part of the statement of changes in shareholder’s equity. The amendment requires that comprehensive income be presented in either a single continuous statement or in two separate statements. The amendments in this guidance are effective as of the beginning of a fiscal reporting year, and interim periods within that year, that begins after December 15, 2011. Early adoption is permitted. The adoption of this amendment changed the presentation of the components of comprehensive income for the Corporation as part of the consolidated statement of shareholder’s equity.
In September 2011, the FASB issued an update to existing guidance relating to goodwill impairment testing. The amendments in this update permit an entity to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than the carrying amount as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform the two-step goodwill impairment test. The more likely than not threshold is defined as having a likelihood of more than 50 percent. If after assessing the totality of events or circumstances, it is not more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, the entity is required to perform the first step of the two-step impairment. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, then the entity is required to perform the second step of the goodwill impairment test to measure the amount of the impairment loss. This update is effective for the Company for annual and interim goodwill impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2011 with early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adopting the new guidance on the consolidated financial statements.
2. FAIR VALUES OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS:
Accounting guidance establishes a fair value hierarchy which requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. The standard describes three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value:
Level 1: Quoted prices (unadjusted) of identical assets or liabilities in active markets that the entity has the ability to access as of the measurement date.
Level 2: Significant other observable inputs other than Level 1 prices such as such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data.
Level 3: Significant unobservable inputs that reflect a reporting entity’s own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability.
The fair value of securities available-for-sale is determined by obtaining quoted prices on nationally recognized securities exchanges (Level 1 inputs) or matrix pricing, which is a mathematical technique widely used in the industry to value debt securities without relying exclusively on quoted prices for the specific securities but rather by relying on the securities’ relationship to other benchmark quoted securities (Level 2 inputs).
For those securities that cannot be priced using quoted market prices or observable inputs, a Level 3 valuation is determined. These securities are primarily trust preferred securities, state and municipal obligations and certain equity securities, which are priced using Level 3 due to current market illiquidity. The fair value of trust preferred securities is computed based upon discounted cash flows estimated using payment, default and recovery assumptions. Cash flows are discounted at appropriate market rates, including consideration of credit spreads and illiquidity discounts. The fair value of equity securities is derived through consideration of trading activity, if any, review of financial statements, industry trends and the valuation of comparative issuers. Due to current market conditions, as well as the limited trading activity of these securities, the market value of the securities is highly sensitive to assumption changes and market volatility. The fair value of state and municipal obligations are derived by comparing the securities to current market rates plus an appropriate credit spread to determine an estimated value. Illiquidity spreads are then considered. An actual credit review is performed on each of the issuers.
The fair value of derivatives is based on valuation models using observable market data as of the measurement date (Level 2 inputs).
The table below presents a reconciliation and income statement classification of gains and losses for all assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) for the twelve months ended December 31, 2011 and 2010.
Fair Value Measurements Using SignificantUnobservable Inputs (Level 3)
December 31, 2011
Fair Value Measurements Using SignificantUnobservable Inputs (Level 3)
December 31, 2010
There were no unrealized gains and losses recorded in earnings for the year ended December 31, 2011. Change in unrealized gains and losses recorded in earnings for the year ended December 31, 2010 for Level 3 assets that are still held at December 31, 2010 was related to fair value declines recorded as other-than- temporary impairment.
The fair value for certain local municipal securities with a fair value of $9.7 million as of December 31, 2011 was transferred out of Level 2 into Level 3 because of a lack of observable market data for these investments due to a decrease in the market activity for this security. Impaired loans disclosed in footnote 7, which are measured for impairment using the fair value of collateral, are valued at Level 3. They are carried at a fair value of $28.4 million, after a valuation allowance of $4.3 million at December 31, 2011 and at a fair value of $31.6 million, net of a valuation allowance of $5.9 million at December 31, 2010. The impact to the provision for loan losses for the twelve months ended December 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010 was $3.3 million and $750 thousand, respectively. Fair value is measured based on the value of the collateral securing those loans and is determined using several methods. Generally, the fair value of real estate is determined based on appraisals by qualified licensed appraisers. If an appraisal is not available, the fair value may be determined by using a cash flow analysis, a broker’s opinion of value, the net present value of future cash flows, or an observable market price from an active market. Fair value on non-real estate loans is determined using similar methods. Other real estate owned is valued based on the methods described above and is valued at Level 3. Other real estate owned at December 31, 2011 with a value of $5.0 million was reduced $892 thousand for fair value adjustment. At December 31, 2011 other real estate owned was comprised of $2.8 million from commercial loans and $2.2 million from residential loans. Other real estate owned at December 31, 2010 with a value of $6.3 million was reduced $353 thousand for fair value adjustment. At December 31, 2010 other real estate owned was comprised of $3.3 million from commercial loans and $3.0 million from residential loans.
The following table presents loans identified as impaired by class of loans as of December 31, 2011and 2010.
The carrying amounts and estimated fair values of financial instruments are shown below. Carrying amount is the estimated fair value for cash and due from banks, federal funds sold, accrued interest receivable and payable, demand deposits, short-term and certain other borrowings, and variable-rate loans or deposits that reprice frequently and fully. Security fair values are determined as previously described. It is not practicable to determine the fair value of restricted stock due to restrictions placed on their transferability. For the FDIC indemnification asset the carrying value is the estimated fair value as it represents amounts to be received from the FDIC in the near term. For fixed-rate loans or deposits, variable rate loans or deposits with infrequent repricing or repricing limits, and for longer-term borrowings, fair value is based on discounted cash flows using current market rates applied to the estimated life and credit risk. Fair values for impaired loans are estimated using discounted cash flow analysis or underlying collateral values. Fair value of debt is based on current rates for similar financing. The fair value of off-balance sheet items is not considered material.
The carrying amount and estimated fair value of assets and liabilities are presented in the table below and were determined based on the above assumptions:
3. RESTRICTIONS ON CASH AND DUE FROM BANKS:
Certain affiliate banks are required to maintain average reserve balances with the Federal Reserve Bank. The amount of those reserve balances was approximately $9.3 million and $9.1 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.
4. SECURITIES:
The fair value of securities available-for-sale and related gross unrealized gains and losses recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income were as follows:
As of December 31, 2011, the Corporation does not have any securities from any issuer, other than the U.S. Government, with an aggregate book or fair value that exceeds ten percent of shareholders’ equity.
Securities with a carrying value of approximately $264.0 million and $227.3 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively, were pledged as collateral for short-term borrowings and for other purposes.
Below is a summary of the gross gains and losses realized by the Corporation on investment sales during the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
Additional gains of $4 thousand in 2011, $27 thousand in 2010 and $4 thousand in 2009 resulted from redemption premiums on called securities.
Contractual maturities of debt securities at year-end 2011 were as follows. Securities not due at a single maturity or with no maturity date, primarily mortgage-backed and equity securities, are shown separately.
The following tables show the securities’ gross unrealized losses and fair value, aggregated by investment category and length of time that individual securities have been in continuous unrealized loss position, at December 31, 2011 and 2010.
The Corporation held 14 investment securities with an amortized cost greater than fair value as of December 31, 2011. The unrealized losses on mortgage-backed and state and municipal obligations represent negative adjustments to market value relative to the rate of interest paid on the securities and not losses related to the creditworthiness of the issuer. Management does not intend to sell and it is not more likely than not that management would be required to sell the securities prior to their anticipated recovery. Management believes the value will recover as the securities approach maturity or market rates change.
Management evaluates securities for other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) at least on a quarterly basis, and more frequently when economic or market conditions warrant such an evaluation. The investment securities portfolio is evaluated for OTTI by segregating the portfolio into two general segments and applying the appropriate OTTI model.
Investment securities are generally evaluated for OTTI under FASB ASC 320, Investments-Debt and Equity Securities. However, certain purchased beneficial interests, including non-agency mortgage-backed securities, asset-backed securities, and collateralized debt
obligations, that had credit ratings at the time of purchase of below AA are evaluated using the model outlined in FASB ASC 325-40, Beneficial Interests in Securitized Financial Assets.
In determining OTTI under the FASB ASC-320 model, management considers many factors, including: (1) the length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been less than cost, (2) the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer, (3) whether the market decline was affected by macroeconomic conditions, and (4) whether the entity has the intent to sell the security or more likely than not will be required to sell the security before its anticipated recovery. The assessment of whether an other-than-temporary decline exists involves a high degree of subjectivity and judgment and is based on the information available to management at a point in time.
The second segment of the portfolio uses the OTTI guidance provided by FASB ASC-325 that is specific to purchase beneficial interests that, on the purchase date, were rated below AA. Under the FASB ASC-325 model, the Corporation compares the present value of the remaining cash flows as estimated at the preceding evaluation date to the current expected remaining cash flows. An OTTI is deemed to have occurred if there has been an adverse change in the remaining expected future cash flows.
When OTTI occurs under either model, the amount of the OTTI recognized in earnings depends on whether an entity intends to sell the security or it is more likely than not it will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis, less any current-period credit loss. If an entity intends to sell or it is more likely than not it will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis, less any current-period credit loss, the OTTI shall be recognized in earnings equal to the entire difference between the investment’s amortized cost basis and its fair value at the balance sheet date. If an entity does not intend to sell the security and it is not more likely than not that the entity will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis less any current-period loss, the OTTI shall be separated into the amount representing the credit loss and the amount related to all other factors. The amount of the total OTTI related to the credit loss is determined based on the present value of cash flows expected to be collected and is recognized in earnings. The amount of the total OTTI related to other factors is recognized in other comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes. The previous amortized cost basis less the OTTI recognized in earnings becomes the new amortized cost basis of the investment.
Gross unrealized losses on investment securities were $9.4 million as of December 31, 2011 and $14.6 million as of December 31, 2010. A majority of these losses represent negative adjustments to fair value relative to the illiquidity in the markets on the securities and not losses related to the creditworthiness of the issuer.
A significant portion of the total unrealized losses relates to collateralized debt obligations that were separately evaluated under FASB ASC 325-40, Beneficial Interests in Securitized Financial Assets. Based upon qualitative considerations, such as a downgrade in credit rating or further defaults of underlying issuers during the year, and an analysis of expected cash flows, we determined that four CDOs included in collateralized debt obligations were other-than-temporarily impaired. Those four CDO’s have a contractual balance of $28.3 million at December 31, 2011 which has been reduced to $3.8 million by $0.5 million of interest payments received, $15.1 million of cumulative OTTI charges recorded through earnings to date and $8.9 million recorded in other comprehensive income. The severity of the OTTI recorded varies by security, based on the analysis described below, and ranges, at December 31, 2011 from 28% to 87%. The temporary impairment recorded in other comprehensive income is due to factors other than credit loss, mainly current market illiquidity. These securities are collateralized by trust preferred securities issued primarily by bank holding companies, but certain pools do include a limited number of insurance companies. The market for these securities has become very illiquid, there are very few new issuances of trust preferred securities and the credit spreads implied by current prices have increased dramatically and remain very high, resulting in significant non-credit related impairment. The Corporation uses the OTTI evaluation model to compare the present value of expected cash flows to the previous estimate to determine if there are adverse changes in cash flows during the year. The OTTI model considers the structure and term of the CDO and the financial condition of the underlying issuers. Specifically, the model details interest rates, principal balances of note classes and underlying issuers, the timing and amount of interest and principal payments of the underlying issuers, and the allocation of the payments to the note classes. Cash flows are projected using a forward rate LIBOR curve, as these CDOs are variable-rate instruments. An average rate is then computed using this same forward rate curve to determine an appropriate discount rate (3 month LIBOR plus margin ranging from 160 to 180 basis points). The current estimate of expected cash flows is based on the most recent trustee reports and any other relevant market information, including announcements of interest payment deferrals or defaults of underlying trust preferred securities. Assumptions used in the model include expected future default rates and prepayments. We assume no recoveries on defaults and treat all interest payment deferrals as defaults. In addition we use the model to “stress” each CDO, or make assumptions more severe than expected activity, to determine the degree to which assumptions could deteriorate before the CDO could no longer fully support repayment of the Corporation’s note class.
Collateralized debt obligations include one additional investment in a CDO consisting of pooled trust preferred securities in which the issuers are primarily banks. This CDO, with an amortized cost of $1.3 million and a fair value of $999 thousand, is currently rated BAA3 and is the senior tranche, is not in the scope of FASB ASC 325 as it was rated high investment grade at purchase, and is not considered to be other-than-temporarily impaired based on its credit quality. Its fair value is negatively impacted by the factors described above.
Management has consistently used Standard & Poors pricing to value these investments. There are a number of other pricing sources available to determine fair value for these investments. These sources utilize a variety of methods to determine fair value. The result is a wide range of estimates of fair value for these securities. The Standard & Poors pricing ranges from 2.28 to 28.56 while Moody’s Investor Service pricing ranges from 0.50 to 87.11, with others falling somewhere in between. We recognize that the Standard & Poors pricing utilized is likely a conservative estimate, but have been consistent in using this source and its estimate of fair value.
In 2010 the Corporation recognized $549 thousand of OTTI on stock held in Fifth Third Corporation prior to liquidation. In 2011 there was $110 thousand of OTTI recognized on the Corporation’s holding of a different financial institution equity security that is still held at December 31, 2011.
The table below presents a rollforward of the credit losses recognized in earnings for the year ended December 31, 2011:
5. LOANS:
Loans are summarized as follows:
Loans in the above summary include loans totaling $35.0 million that are subject to the FDIC loss share arrangement (“covered loans”) discussed in footnote 6.
The Corporation periodically sells residential mortgage loans it originates based on the overall loan demand of the Corporation and the outstanding balances in the residential mortgage portfolio. At December 31, 2011 and 2010, loans held for sale included $4.1 million and $3.4 million, respectively, and are included in the totals above.
In the normal course of business, the Corporation’s subsidiary banks make loans to directors and executive officers and to their associates. In 2011, the aggregate dollar amount of these loans to directors and executive officers who held office amounted to $37.4 million at the beginning of the year. During 2011, advances of $32.0 million, repayments of $10.8 million and decreases of $0.1 million resulting from changes in personnel were made with respect to related party loans for an aggregate dollar amount outstanding of $58.5 million at December 31, 2011.
Loans serviced for others, which are not reported as assets, total $450.1 million and $469.3 million at year-end 2011 and 2010. Custodial escrow balances maintained in connection with serviced loans were $1.89 million and $1.93 million at year-end 2011 and 2010.
Activity for capitalized mortgage servicing rights (included in other assets) was as follows:
* In 2011 $520 thousand is from the acquisition of Freestar Bank
Third party valuations are conducted periodically for mortgage servicing rights. Based on these valuations, fair values were approximately $3.9 million and $3.4 million at year end 2011 and 2010. There was no valuation allowance in 2011 or 2010.
Fair value for 2011 was determined using a discount rate of 9%, prepayment speeds ranging from 160% to 700%, depending on the stratification of the specific right. Fair value at year end 2010 was determined using a discount rate of 9%, prepayment speeds ranging from 213% to 700%, depending on the stratification of the specific right. Mortgage servicing rights are amortized over 8 years, the expected life of the sold loans.
6. ACQUISITIONS AND FDIC INDEMNIFICATION ASSET:
On December 30, 2011, the Bank completed a purchase and assumption agreement with PNB Holding Co (PNB), an Illinois corporation, to purchase all of the issued and outstanding stock of Freestar Bank, National Association, and assume certain liabilities of PNB (the “Transaction”). Immediately following the acquisition of the stock of Freestar Bank, First Financial merged Freestar Bank with and into its wholly-owned subsidiary, First Financial Bank, National Association.
The acquisition provided a strategic entry into the Champaign-Urbana, Bloomington-Normal and Pontiac, Illinois markets. Each of these markets are characterized by higher growth rates.
First Financial paid PNB cash in the amount of $47 million and assumed certain liabilities of PNB in the aggregate amount of approximately $8.2 million. The acquisition consisted of assets and liabilities with a fair value of approximately $414.0 million, including $245.3 million of loans, $95.5 million of investment securities, $62.0 million of cash and cash equivalents and $361.2 million of deposits. A customer related core deposit intangible asset of $2.1 million was also recorded. Based upon the acquisition date fair values of the net assets acquired, goodwill of $29.8 million was recorded, all of which is expected to be tax deductable. Loans acquired include purchase credit impaired loans with a fair value of $48.1 million which have a contractual amount due of $55.6 million. These factors, purchase premium paid, holding company debt assumed and amount paid in excess of the loans fair value are the primary components of goodwill. Management is still in the process of obtaining information needed to finalize fair value estimates, particularly related to loans, and any adjustment to their fair value would also impact goodwill.
Pro Forma Results
The following schedule includes pro forma results for the periods ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 as if the Freestar acquisition has occurred as of the beginning of the periods presented after giving effect to certain adjustments. The un-audited pro forma information is provided for illustrative purposes only and is not indicative of the results of operations or financial condition that would have been achieved if the Freestar acquisition would have take place at the beginning of the periods presented and should not be taken as indicative of the Corporation’s future consolidated results of operations or financial condition.
No provision expense was included in either period for Freestar. In accordance with accounting for business combinations, there was no allowance brought forward on any of the acquired loans, as the credit losses evident in the loans were included in the determination of the fair value of the loans at acquisition date. A tax rate of 27.91% was used to adjust tax provision expense for the income statement impact in both periods. On July 2, 2009, the Bank entered into a purchase and assumption agreement with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) to assume all of the deposits (excluding brokered deposits) and certain assets of The First National Bank of Danville, a full-service commercial bank headquartered in Danville, Illinois, that had failed and been placed in receivership with the FDIC. The acquisition consisted of assets worth a fair value of approximately $151.8 million, including $77.5 million of loans, $24.2 million of investment securities, $31.0 million of cash and cash equivalents and $146.3 million of liabilities, including $145.7 million of deposits. A customer related core deposit intangible asset of $4.6 million was also recorded. In addition to the excess of liabilities over assets, the Bank received approximately$14.6 million in cash from the FDIC. Based upon the acquisition date fair values of the net assets acquired, no goodwill was recorded. The transaction resulted in a gain of $5.1 million, which is included in non-interest income in the December 31, 2009 Consolidated Statement of Operations Under the loss-sharing agreement (“LSA”), the Bank will share in the losses on assets covered under the agreement (referred to as covered assets). On losses up to $29 million, the FDIC has agreed to reimburse the Bank for 80 percent of the losses. On losses exceeding $29 million, the FDIC has agreed to reimburse the Bank for 95 percent of the losses. The loss-sharing agreement is subject to following servicing procedures as specified in the agreement with the FDIC. Loans acquired that are subject to the loss-sharing agreement with the FDIC are referred to as covered loans for disclosure purposes. Since the acquisition date the Bank has been reimbursed $14.5 million for losses and carrying expenses and currently carries a balance of $2.4 million in the indemnification asset. Included in the current balance is the estimate of $1.0 million for 80% of the loans subject to the loss-sharing agreement identified in the allowance for loan loss evaluation as future potential losses at December 31, 2011.
FASB ASC 310-30, Loans and Debt Securities Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality, applies to a loan with evidence of deterioration of credit quality since origination, acquired by completion of a transfer for which it is probable, at acquisition, that the investor will be unable to collect all contractually required payments receivable. FASB ASC 310-30 prohibits carrying over or creating an allowance for loan losses upon initial recognition. The carrying amount of covered assets at December 31, 2011and 2010, consisted of loans accounted for in accordance with FASB ASC 310-30, loans not subject to FASB ASC 310-30 and other assets as shown in the following table:
The rollforward of the FDIC Indemnification asset is as follows:
On the acquisition date, the preliminary estimate of the contractually required payments receivable for all FASB ASC310-30 loans acquired in the acquisition were $31.6 million, the cash flows expected to be collected were $18.4 million including interest, and the estimated fair value of the loans was $16.7 million. These amounts were determined based upon the estimated remaining life of the underlying loans, which include the effects of estimated prepayments. At December 31, 2011, a majority of these loans were valued based on the liquidation value of the underlying collateral, because the expected cash flows are primarily based on the liquidation of underlying collateral and the timing and amount of the cash flows could not be reasonably estimated. There was a $1.0 million allowance for credit losses related to these loans at December 31, 2011. On the acquisition date, the preliminary estimate of the contractually required payments receivable for all non FASB ASC310-30 loans acquired in the acquisition was $58.4 million and the estimated fair value of the loans was $60.7 million. The impact to the Corporation from the amortization and accretion of premiums and discounts was immaterial.
7. ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES:
The following table presents the activity of the allowance for loan losses by portfolio segment for the year ended December 31, 2011.
* Provision before decrease of $125 thousand in 2011 for increase in FDIC indemnification asset
Changes in the allowance for loan losses are summarized as follows:
* In 2010 the provision charged to expense was reduced by $1.7 million for the increase to the FDIC Indemnification asset.
The following tables present the allocation of the allowance for loan losses and the recorded investment in loans by portfolio segment and based on impairment method at December 31, 2011 and 2010:
The following table presents loans individually evaluated for impairment by class of loan.
The following table presents the recorded investment in nonperforming loans by class of loans.
Covered loans included in loans past due over 90 days still on accrual are $413 thousand at December 31, 2011 and $377 thousand at December 31, 2010. Covered loans included in non-accrual loans are $5.6 million at December 31, 2011 and $8.7 million at December 31, 2010. Covered loans of $5.0 million are deemed impaired at December 31, 2011 and have allowance for loan loss allocated to them of $1.0 million. On December 31, 2010 there were $4.3 million of covered loans deemed impaired that had an allowance for loan loss allocated to them of $1.3 million. Non-performing loans include both smaller balance homogeneous loans that are collectively evaluated for impairment and individually classified impaired loans.
During the year ending December 31, 2011, the terms of certain loans were modified as troubled debt restructurings. Four commercial loans totaling $631 thousand and four residential loan totaling $212 thousand were loans modified in 2011, and the modification of the terms of such loans included one or a combination of the following: a reduction of the stated interest rate of the loan; an extension of the maturity date at a stated rate of interest lower than the current market rate for new debt with similar risk; or a permanent reduction of the recorded investment in the loan. No modifications resulted in the permanent reduction of the recorded investment in the loan. The dollar amount of loans modified in trouble debt restructurings that subsequently defaulted and were charged off was insignificant to the allowance for loan losses.
Modifications involving a reduction of the stated interest rate of the loan were for periods ranging from twelve months to five years. Modifications involving an extension of the maturity date were for periods ranging from twelve months to 10 years.
The Corporation has allocated $1.6 million and $657 thousand of specific reserves to customers whose loan terms have been modified in troubled debt restructurings as of December 31, 2011 and 2010. The Corporation has not committed to lend additional amounts as of December 31, 2011 and 2010 to customers with outstanding loans that are classified as troubled debt restructurings.
The following table presents the aging of the recorded investment in loans by past due category and class of loans.
Credit Quality Indicators:
The Corporation categorizes loans into risk categories based on relevant information about the ability of borrowers to service their debt such as: current financial information, historical payment experience, credit documentation, public information, and current economic trends, among other factors. The Corporation analyzes loans individually by classifying the loans as to credit risk. This analysis includes non-homogeneous loans, such as commercial loans, with an outstanding balance greater than $50 thousand. Any consumer loans outstanding to a borrower who had commercial loans analyzed will be similarly risk rated. This analysis is performed on a quarterly basis. The Corporation uses the following definitions for risk ratings:
Special Mention: Loans classified as special mention have a potential weakness that deserves management’s close attention. If left uncorrected, these potential weaknesses may result in deterioration of the repayment prospects for the loan or of the institution’s credit position at some future date.
Substandard: Loans classified as substandard are inadequately protected by the current net worth and debt service capacity of the borrower or of any pledged collateral. These loans have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses which have clearly jeopardized repayment of principal and interest as originally intended. They are characterized by the distinct possibility that the institution will sustain some future loss if the deficiencies are not corrected.
Doubtful: Loans classified as doubtful have all the weaknesses inherent in those graded substandard, with the added characteristic that the severity of the weaknesses makes collection or liquidation in full highly questionable or improbable based upon currently existing facts, conditions, and values.
Furthermore, non-homogeneous loans which were not individually analyzed, but are 90+ days past due or on non-accrual are classified as substandard. Loans included in homogeneous pools, such as residential or consumer, may be classified as substandard due to 90+ days delinquency, non-accrual status, bankruptcy, or loan restructuring.
Loans not meeting the criteria above that are analyzed individually as part of the above described process are considered to be pass rated loans. Loans listed as not rated are either less than $50 thousand or are included in groups of homogeneous loans. As of December 31, 2011, and based on the most recent analysis performed, the risk category of loans by class of loans is as follows:
8. PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT:
Premises and equipment are summarized as follows:
Aggregate depreciation expense was $2.84 million, $3.27 million and $3.25 million for 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
9. GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS:
The Corporation completed its annual impairment testing of goodwill during the second quarter of 2011 and 2010. Management does not believe any amount of goodwill is impaired.
Intangible assets subject to amortization at December 31, 2011 and 2010 are as follows:
In late December 2010 Forrest Sherer, Inc. paid $609 thousand to acquire an insurance agency. The only identifiable asset purchased was a customer list intangible of $609.
In late December 2011 First Financial Bank paid $47.0 million to acquire Freestar Bank. The intangible assets purchased were the core deposit intangible of $2.1 million and goodwill of $29.8million.
Aggregate amortization expense was $1.06 million, $1.38 million and $950 thousand for 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
Estimated amortization expense for the next five years is as follows:
10. DEPOSITS:
Scheduled maturities of time deposits for the next five years are as follows:
11. SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS:
A summary of the carrying value of the Corporation’s short-term borrowings at December 31, 2011 and 2010 is presented below:
Federal funds purchased are generally due in one day and bear interest at market rates. Other borrowings, primarily note payable-U.S. government, are due on demand, secured by a pledge of securities and bear interest at market rates. Substantially all repurchase agreement liabilities represent amounts advanced by various customers. Securities are pledged to cover these liabilities, which are not covered by federal deposit insurance. The Corporation maintains possession of and control over these securities.
12. OTHER BORROWINGS:
Other borrowings at December 31, 2011 and 2010 are summarized as follows:
The aggregate minimum annual retirements of other borrowings are as follows:
The Corporation’s subsidiary banks are members of the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) of Indianapolis and accordingly are permitted to obtain advances. The advances from the FHLB, aggregating $140.2 million, including $138.6 million at December 31, 2011contractually due and a purchase premium of 1.6 million, and $125.8 million at December 31, 2010, accrue interest, payable monthly, at annual rates, primarily fixed, varying from 3.2% to 6.6% in 2011 and 3.1% to 6.6% in 2010. The advances are due at various dates through August 2017. FHLB advances are, generally, due in full at maturity. They are secured by eligible securities totaling $8.3 million at December 31, 2011, and $33.1 million at December 31, 2010, and a blanket pledge on real estate loan collateral. Based on this collateral and the Corporation’s holdings of FHLB stock, the Corporation is eligible to borrow up to $179.6 million at year end 2011. Certain advances may be prepaid, without penalty, prior to maturity. The FHLB can adjust the interest rate from fixed to variable on certain advances, but those advances may then be prepaid, without penalty.
In 2011 First Financial Corporation acquired PNB Statutory Trust I in conjunction with its purchase and assumption of the assets and liabilities of Freestar Bank NA and assumption of certain liabilities of PNB Holding Company. First Financial guarantees payments of distributions on the trust preferred securities issued by PNB Statutory Trust I. PNB Statutory Trust I issued $6.0 million in preferred securities in December 2007. The fair value of these securities at acquisition was $6.2 million based upon the intended redemption at December 31, 2012. The preferred securities carry a variable rate of interest priced at the three-month LIBOR plus 230 basis points, payable quarterly and maturing on December 31, 2037. Proceeds from the securities were used to purchase junior subordinated debentures with the same financial terms as the securities issued by PNB Statutory Trust I. First Financial may redeem the junior subordinated debentures and thereby cause redemption of the trust preferred securities in whole (or in part from time to time) on or after December 31, 2012.
13. INCOME TAXES:
Income tax expense is summarized as follows:
The reconciliation of income tax expense with the amount computed by applying the statutory federal income tax rate of 35% to income before income taxes is summarized as follows:
The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets and liabilities at December 31, 2011 and 2010, are as follows:
Unrecognized Tax Benefits - A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:
Of this total, $862 represents the amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would favorably affect the effective income tax rate in future periods. The Corporation does not expect the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits to significantly increase or decrease in the next 12 months.
The total amount of interest and penalties recorded in the income statement for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 was an expense decrease of $18 and an increase of $43 and $9, respectively. The amount accrued for interest and penalties at December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 was $98, $116 and $73, respectively.
The Corporation and its subsidiaries are subject to U.S. federal income tax as well as income tax of the states of Indiana and Illinois. The Corporation is no longer subject to examination by taxing authorities for years before 2008.
14. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS WITH OFF-BALANCE-SHEET RISK:
The Corporation is a 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 conditional commitments and commercial letters of credit. The financial instruments involve to varying degrees, elements of credit and interest rate risk in excess of amounts recognized in the financial statements. The Corporation’s maximum exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the other party to the financial instrument for commitments to make loans is limited generally by the contractual amount of those instruments. The Corporation follows the same credit policy to make such commitments as is followed for those loans recorded in the consolidated financial statements.
Commitment and contingent liabilities are summarized as follows at December 31:
The majority of commercial operating lines and home equity lines are variable rate, while the majority of other commitments to fund loans are fixed rate. Since many commitments to make loans expire without being used, these amounts do not necessarily represent future cash commitments. Collateral obtained upon exercise of the commitment is determined using management’s credit evaluation of the borrower, and may include accounts receivable, inventory, property, land and other items. The approximate duration of these commitments is generally one year or less.
Derivatives: The Corporation enters into derivative instruments for the benefit of its customers. At the inception of a derivative contract, the Corporation designates the derivative as an instrument with no hedging designation (“standalone derivative”). Changes in the fair value of derivatives are reported currently in earnings as non-interest income. Net cash settlements on derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting are reported in non-interest income.
First Financial Bank offers clients the ability on certain transactions to enter into interest rate swaps. Typically, these are pay fixed, receive floating swaps used in conjunction with commercial loans. These derivative contracts do not qualify for hedge accounting. The Bank hedges the exposure to these contracts by entering into offsetting contracts with substantially matching terms. The notional amount of these interest rate swaps was $27.2 and $30.5 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010. The fair value of these contracts combined was zero, as gains offset losses. The gross gain and loss associated with these interest rate swaps was $2.4 million and $1.3 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010.
15. RETIREMENT PLANS:
Substantially all employees of the Corporation are covered by a retirement program that consists of a defined benefit plan and an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP). Plan assets consist primarily of the Corporation’s stock and obligations of U.S. Government agencies. Benefits under the defined benefit plan are actuarially determined based on an employee’s service and compensation, as defined, and funded as necessary.
Assets in the ESOP are considered in calculating the funding to the defined benefit plan required to provide such benefits. Any shortfall of benefits under the ESOP are to be provided by the defined benefit plan. The ESOP may provide benefits beyond those determined under the defined benefit plan. Contributions to the ESOP are determined by the Corporation’s Board of Directors. The Corporation made contributions to the defined benefit plan of $7.11 million, $1.30 million and $1.20 million in 2011, 2010 and 2009. The Corporation contributed $1.56 million, $1.35 million and $971 thousand to the ESOP in 2011, 2010 and 2009.
The Corporation uses a measurement date of December 31, 2011.
Net periodic benefit cost and other amounts recognized in other comprehensive income included the following components:
The estimated net loss and prior service costs for the defined benefit pension plan that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic benefit cost over the next fiscal year are $2.3 million and $166 thousand.
The information below sets forth the change in projected benefit obligation, reconciliation of plan assets, and the funded status of the Corporation’s retirement program. Actuarial present value of benefits is based on service to date and present pay levels.
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income at December 31, 2011 and 2010 consist of:
The accumulated benefit obligation for the defined benefit pension plan was $73,560 and $55,304 at year-end 2011 and 2010.
The expected long-term rate of return was estimated using market benchmarks for equities and bonds applied to the plan’s target asset allocation. Management estimated the rate by which plan assets would perform based on historical experience as adjusted for changes in asset allocations and expectations for future return on equities as compared to past periods.
Plan Assets - The Corporation’s pension plan weighted-average asset allocation for the years 2011 and 2010 by asset category are as follows:
Fair Value of Plan Assets - Fair value is the exchange price that would be received for an asset in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. It also establishes a fair value hierarchy which requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value.
The Corporation used the following methods and significant assumptions to estimate the fair value of each type of financial instrument:
Equity, Debt, Investment Funds and Other Securities - The fair values for investment securities are determined by quoted market prices, if available (Level 1). For securities where quoted prices are not available, fair values are calculated based on market prices of similar securities (Level 2). For securities where quoted prices or market prices of similar securities are not available, fair values are calculated using discounted cash flows or other market indicators (Level 3).
The fair value of the plan assets at December 31, 2011 and 2010, by asset category, is as follows:
The investment objective for the retirement program is to maximize total return without exposure to undue risk. Asset allocation favors equities, with a target allocation of approximately 88%. This target includes the Corporation’s ESOP, which is 100% invested in corporate stock. Other investment allocations include fixed income securities and cash.
The plan is prohibited from investing in the following: private placement equity and debt transactions; letter stock and uncovered options; short-sale margin transactions and other specialized investment activity; and fixed income or interest rate futures. All other investments not prohibited by the plan are permitted.
Equity securities include First Financial Corporation common stock in the amount of $28.3 million (53 percent of total plan assets) and $29.7 million (61 percent of total plan assets) at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Other equity securities are predominantly stocks in large cap U.S. companies.
Contributions - The Corporation expects to contribute $3.8 million to its pension plan and $1.5 million to its ESOP in 2012.
Estimated Future Payments - The following benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, are expected:
Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan - The Corporation has established a Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (SERP) for certain executive officers. The provisions of the SERP allow the Plan’s participants who are also participants in the Corporation’s defined benefit pension plan to receive supplemental retirement benefits to help recompense for benefits lost due to the imposition of IRS limitations on benefits under the Corporation’s tax qualified defined benefit pension plan. Expenses related to the plan were $200 thousand in 2011 and $241 thousand in 2010. The plan is unfunded and has a measurement date of December 31. The amounts recognized in other comprehensive income in the current year are as follows:
The Corporation has $2.0 million and $1.3 million recognized in the balance sheet as a liability at December 31, 2011 and 2010. Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income consist of $355 thousand net loss at December 31, 2011 and $170 thousand net gain and $74 thousand in prior service cost at December 31, 2010. The estimated loss for the SERP that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic benefit cost over the next fiscal year is $79 thousand.
Estimated Future Payments - The following benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, are expected:
The Corporation also provides medical benefits to certain employees subsequent to their retirement. The Corporation uses a measurement date of December 31. Accrued post-retirement benefits as of December 31, 2011 and 2010 are as follows:
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income consist of a net loss of $91 thousand and $120 thousand in transition obligation at December 31, 2011 and $575 thousand net loss and $180 thousand in transition obligation at December 31, 2010. The post-retirement benefits paid in 2011 and 2010 of $288 thousand and $273 thousand, respectively, were fully funded by company and participant contributions.
The estimated transition obligation for the post-retirement benefit plan that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic benefit cost over the next fiscal year is $60 thousand.
Weighted average assumptions at December 31:
Post-retirement health benefit expense included the following components:
Assumed health care cost trend rates have a significant effect on the amounts reported for the health care plans. A one-percentage-point change in the assumed health care cost trend rates would have the following effects:
Contributions - The Corporation expects to contribute $255 thousand to its other post-retirement benefit plan in 2012.
Estimated Future Payments - The following benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, are expected:
16. OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS):
Other comprehensive income (loss) components and related taxes were as follows:
The following is a summary of the accumulated other comprehensive income balances, net of tax:
17. REGULATORY MATTERS:
The Corporation and its bank affiliates are subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by the federal banking agencies. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory-and possibly additional discretionary-actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on the Corporation’s financial statements.
Further, the Corporation’s primary source of funds to pay dividends to shareholders is dividends from its subsidiary banks and compliance with these capital requirements can affect the ability of the Corporation and its banking affiliates to pay dividends. At December 31, 2011, approximately $45.3 million of undistributed earnings of the subsidiary banks, included in consolidated retained earnings, were available for distribution to the Corporation without regulatory approval. Under capital adequacy guidelines and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, the Corporation and Banks must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of the Corporation’s assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance-sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. The Corporation’s and Banks’ capital amounts and classification are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings and other factors.
Quantitative measures established by regulation to ensure capital adequacy require the Corporation and Banks to maintain minimum amounts and ratios of Total and Tier I Capital to risk-weighted assets, and of Tier I Capital to average assets. Management believes, as of December 31, 2011 and 2010, that the Corporation meets all capital adequacy requirements to which it is subject.
As of December 31, 2011, the most recent notification from the respective regulatory agencies categorized the subsidiary banks as well capitalized under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action. To be categorized as well capitalized, the banks must maintain minimum total risk-based, Tier I risk-based and Tier I leverage ratios as set forth in the table. There are no conditions or events since that notification that management believes have changed the banks’ category.
The following table presents the actual and required capital amounts and related ratios for the Corporation and First Financial Bank, N.A., at year-end 2011 and 2010.
18. PARENT COMPANY CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS:
The parent company’s condensed balance sheets as of December 31, 2011 and 2010, and the related condensed statements of income and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2011, are as follows:
CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
19. SELECTED QUARTERLY DATA (UNAUDITED):
ITEM 9.
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None
ITEM 9A.
ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
As of the end of the period covered by this report, we carried out an evaluation (the “Evaluation”), under the supervision and with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”), who serves as our principal executive officer, and Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”), who serves as our principal financial officer, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (“Disclosure Controls”). Based on the Evaluation, our CEO and CFO concluded that our Disclosure Controls are effective and designed to ensure that the information required to be included in our periodic SEC reports is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.
Changes in Internal Controls Over Financial Reporting
There was no change in the Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the Corporation’s fourth fiscal quarter of 2011that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting.
Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting and Attestation Report of the Registered Public Accounting Firm
“Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting” and “Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” are included in Item 8 hereof and incorporated by reference.
ITEM 9B.
ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION The Corporation established the compensation to be paid to Directors for the year 2012 on February 7, 2012. These amounts are set forth on Exhibit 10.3 to this Form 10-K.
The Corporation established the compensation to be paid to Named Executive Officers for the year 2012 on November 15, 2011. These amounts are set forth on Exhibit 10.4 to this Form 10-K.
Effective December 1, 2011, the Corporation and the Bank (collectively, the “Employers”), entered into a new employment agreement (the “Agreement”) with Norman L. Lowery, Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation and President and Chief Executive Officer of the Bank. The Agreement supersedes the employment agreement dated December 1, 2010 between the Employers and Mr. Lowery.
Under the terms of the Agreement, the Employers have agreed to employ Mr. Lowery for an initial term of thirty-six (36) months in his current position as Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation and President and Chief Executive Officer of the Bank.
Under the Agreement, Mr. Lowery is entitled to an annual base salary of $585,826, which may be increased from time to time as determined by the boards of directors of the Employers, and is entitled to participate in other bonus and fringe benefit plans available to other executive officers or employees of the Employers generally.
If the Employers terminate Mr. Lowery’s employment for “just cause,” death or “disability” (as such terms are defined in the Agreement), then Mr. Lowery is entitled to receive the base salary, bonuses, vested rights, and other benefits due him through the date of his termination. Any benefits payable under insurance, health, retirement, bonus, incentive, performance or other plans as a result of his participation in such plans through such date of termination will be paid when and as due under those plans.
If the Employers terminate Mr. Lowery’s employment without just cause or if he terminates his employment for “good reason,” and such termination does not occur within 12 months after a “change in control” (as such terms are defined in the Agreement), then Mr. Lowery is entitled to receive an amount equal to the sum of his base salary and bonuses through the end of the then-current term of the Agreement. He would also receive cash reimbursements in an amount equal to his cost of obtaining all benefits which he would have been eligible to participate in or receive through the term of the Agreement.
If Mr. Lowery’s employment is terminated for other than just cause or is constructively discharged and this occurs within 12 months following a change in control, then Mr. Lowery is entitled to receive an amount equal to the greater of the compensation and benefits described in the previous paragraph if the termination did not occur within 12 months following a change in control; or, the product of 2.99 times the sum of (i) his base salary in effect as of the date of the change in control; (ii) an amount equal to the bonuses received by or payable to him in or for the calendar year prior to the year in which the change in control occurs; and (iii) cash reimbursements in an amount equal to his cost of obtaining for a period of three years, beginning on the date of termination, all benefits which he was eligible to participate in or receive.
Mr. Lowery would also be entitled to the payment provided for in this paragraph if a change in control occurs that was not approved by a majority of the board of directors of the Corporation.
If Mr. Lowery qualifies as a “key employee” (as defined in the Agreement) at the time of his separation from service, then the Corporation may not make certain payments earlier than six months following the date of his separation from service (or, if earlier, the date of his death). In this event, payments to which Mr. Lowery would otherwise be entitled during the first six months following the date of his separation from service will be accumulated and paid to Mr. Lowery on the first day of the seventh month following his separation from service. Mr. Lowery is currently considered a “key employee” for this purpose.
If, as a result of a change in control, Mr. Lowery becomes entitled to any payments which are determined to be payments subject to Internal Revenue Code Section 280G, then his benefit will be equal to the greater of (i) his benefit under the Agreement reduced to the maximum amount payable such that when it is aggregated with payments and benefits under all other plans and arrangements it will not result in an “excess parachute payment” under Internal Revenue Code Section 280G, or (ii) his benefit under the Agreement after taking into account the amount of the excise tax imposed under Internal Revenue Code Section 280G due to the benefit payment.
The Agreement also includes standard confidentiality and non-solicit provisions and a non-compete provision pursuant to which Mr. Lowery is prohibited, during his employment and for a period of one year following his termination, from directly or indirectly competing against the Employers within a 30-mile radius of Terre Haute, Indiana.
The foregoing description is a summary only and is qualified in its entirety by the full text of the Agreement, which is filed as Exhibit 10.01 to the Corporations Form 8-K filed February 23, 2012.
PART III
ITEM 10.
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
In accordance with the provisions of General Instruction G to Form 10-K, the information required for disclosure under Item 10 is not set forth herein because the Corporation intends to file with the Securities and Exchange Commission a definitive Proxy Statement pursuant to Regulation 14A not later than 120 days following the end of its 2011 fiscal year, which Proxy Statement will contain such information. The information required by Item 10 is incorporated herein by reference to such Proxy Statement.
ITEM 11.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
In accordance with the provisions of General Instruction G to Form 10-K, the information required for disclosure under Item 11 is not set forth herein because the Corporation intends to file with the Securities and Exchange Commission a definitive Proxy Statement pursuant to Regulation 14A not later than 120 days following the end of its 2011 fiscal year, which Proxy Statement will contain such information. The information required by Item 11 is incorporated herein by reference to such Proxy Statement.
ITEM 12.
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED SHAREHOLDER MATTERS
In accordance with the provisions of General Instruction G to Form 10-K, the information required for disclosure under Item 12 is not set forth herein because the Corporation intends to file with the Securities and Exchange Commission a definitive Proxy Statement pursuant to Regulation 14A not later than 120 days following the end of its 2011 fiscal year, which Proxy Statement will contain such information. The information required by Item 12 is incorporated herein by reference to such Proxy Statement.
Equity Compensation Plan Information
The following table provides certain information as of December 31, 2011 with respect to the Corporation’s equity compensation plans under which equity securities of the Company are authorized for issuance.
(1) Available for future issuance under equity compensation plans (excluding securities reflected in the first column).
(2) Includes the First Financial Corporation 2011 Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan.
(3) The Corporation has no equity compensation plan that has not been authorized by its stockholders.
ITEM 13.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE
In accordance with the provisions of General Instruction G to Form 10-K, the information required for disclosure under Item 13 is not set forth herein because the Corporation intends to file with the Securities and Exchange Commission a definitive Proxy Statement pursuant to Regulation 14A not later than 120 days following the end of its 2011 fiscal year, which Proxy Statement will contain such information. The information required by Item 13 is incorporated herein by reference to such Proxy Statement.
ITEM 14.
ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES
In accordance with the provisions of General Instruction G to Form 10-K, the information required for disclosure under Item 14 is not set forth herein because the Corporation intends to file with the Securities and Exchange Commission a definitive Proxy Statement pursuant to Regulation 14A not later than 120 days following the end of its 2011 fiscal year, which Proxy Statement will contain such information. The information required by Item 14 is incorporated herein by reference to such Proxy Statement.
PART IV
ITEM 15.
ITEM 15. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
(a)
(1) The following consolidated financial statements of the Registrant and its subsidiaries are filed as part of this document under “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”
Consolidated Balance Sheets-December 31, 2011 and 2010
Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income-Years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity-Years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows-Years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(a)
(2) Schedules to the Consolidated Financial Statements required by Article 9 of Regulation S-X are not required, inapplicable, or the required information has been disclosed elsewhere.
(a)
(3) Listing of Exhibits:
*
Indicates management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement required to be filed as an exhibit to this report.
**
Furnished, not filed, for purposes of Sections 11 and 12 of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
(b) Exhibits-Filed Exhibits to (a) (3) listed above are attached to this report.
(c) Financial Statements Schedules-No schedules are required to be submitted. See response to ITEM 15(a) (2).
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.
First Financial Corporation
/s/ Rodger A. McHargue
Rodger A. McHargue, Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer)
Date: March 15, 2012
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
NAME
DATE
/s/ Donald E. Smith
March 15, 2012
Donald E. Smith, President and Director
/s/ Rodger a. McHargue
March 15, 2012
Rodger A. McHargue, Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer)
/s/ W. Curtis Brighton
March 15, 2012
W. Curtis Brighton, Director
/s/ B. Guille Cox, Jr.
March 15, 2012
B. Guille Cox, Jr., Director
/s/ Thomas T. Dinkel
March 15, 2012
Thomas T. Dinkel, Director
/s/ Anton H. George
March 15, 2012
Anton H. George, Director
/s/ Gregory L. Gibson
March 15, 2012
Gregory L. Gibson, Director
/s/ Norman L. Lowery
March 15, 2012
Norman L. Lowery, Vice Chairman, CEO & Director
(Principal Executive Officer)
/s/ Ronald K. Rich
March 15, 2012
Ronald K. Rich, Director
/s/ Virginia L. Smith
March 15, 2012
Virginia L. Smith, Director
/s/ William J. Voges
March 15, 2012
William J. Voges, Director
/s/ William R. Krieble
March 15, 2012
William R. Krieble, Director
EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit
Number
Description
10.3
2011 Schedule of Director Compensation
10.4
2011 Schedule of Named Executive Officers Compensation
Subsidiaries
31.1
Certification Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) for Annual Report of Form 10-K by Principal Executive Officer
31.2
Certification Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) for Annual Report of Form 10-K by Principal Financial Officer
32.1
Certification Pursuant to Rule 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 of Principal Executive Officer
32.2
Certification Pursuant to Rule 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 of Principal Financial Officer
101.
The following material from First Financial Corporation’s Form 10-K Report for the annual period ended December 31, 2011, formatted in XBRL pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T: (i) the Consolidated Balance Sheets, (ii) the Consolidated Statements of Income, (iii) the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, (iv) the Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity, and (v) the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.*
*
Furnished, not filed, for purposes of Sections 11 and 12 of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.