Equibles

10-Q

PEOPLES BANCORP OF NORTH CAROLINA INC (PEBK)

10-Q 2024-11-05 For: 2024-09-30
View Original
Added on April 12, 2026

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

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

For the quarterly period ended: September 30, 2024

OR

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

For the transition period from __________ to __________

000-27205

(Commission File No.)

PEOPLES BANCORP OF NORTH CAROLINA, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
North Carolina 56-2132396
--- ---
(State or other jurisdiction of<br><br>incorporation or organization) (IRS Employer<br><br>Identification No.)
518 West C Street, Newton, North Carolina 28658
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

(828) 464-5620

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: None

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

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes ☒     No ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company.  See the definitions of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer”, “smaller reporting company”, and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer ☐ Accelerated filer ☐
Non-accelerated filer ☒ Smaller reporting company ☒
Emerging growth company ☐

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13 (a) ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ☐     No ☒

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the registrant's classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date. 5,457,646 shares of common stock, outstanding at October 31, 2024.

INDEX

PART I.    FINANCIAL INFORMATION

PAGE(S)
Item 1. Financial Statements
Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30, 2024 (Unaudited) and December 31, 2023 (Audited) 4
Consolidated Statements of Earnings for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 (Unaudited) 5
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the three and nine and months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 (Unaudited) 6
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders' Equity for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 (Unaudited) 7
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 (Unaudited) 8-9
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) 10-27
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 28
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 40
Item 4. Controls and Procedures 40

PART II.  OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings 41
Item 1A. Risk Factors 41
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds 42
Item 3. Defaults upon Senior Securities 42
Item 5. Other Information 42
Item 6. Exhibits 43
Signatures 44
Certifications
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FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Statements made in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, other than those concerning historical information, should be considered forward-looking statements pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Private Securities Litigation Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and are based on the beliefs and assumptions of management and on the information available to management at the time that this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q was prepared. These statements can be identified by the use of words like “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” and “believe,” variations of these words and other similar expressions. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as a number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ include, but are not limited to, (1) competition in the markets served by the registrant and its subsidiaries, (2) changes in the interest rate environment, (3) general national, regional or local economic conditions may be less favorable than expected, resulting in, among other things, a deterioration in credit quality and the possible impairment of collectibility of loans, (4) legislative or regulatory changes, including changes in accounting standards, (5) significant changes in the federal and state legal and regulatory environments and tax laws, (6) the impact of changes in monetary and fiscal policies, laws, rules and regulations and (7) other risks and factors identified in other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including but not limited to, those described in the registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023.

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PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Financial Statements

PEOPLES BANCORP OF NORTH CAROLINA, INC.
Consolidated Balance Sheets
September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023
(Dollars in thousands)
**** December 31, ****
--- --- --- --- --- ---
Assets **** 2023
(Audited)
Cash and due from banks 36,061 32,819
Interest-bearing deposits 37,101 49,556
Cash and cash equivalents 73,162 82,375
Investment securities available for sale 398,573 391,924
Other investments 2,753 2,874
Total securities 401,326 394,798
Mortgage loans held for sale 1,218 686
Loans 1,124,177 1,093,066
Less allowance for credit losses (10,616 ) (11,041 )
Net loans 1,113,561 1,082,025
Premises and equipment, net 15,206 16,702
Cash surrender value of life insurance 18,482 18,134
Right of use lease asset 4,194 4,731
Accrued interest receivable and other assets 34,501 36,459
Total assets 1,661,650 1,635,910
Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity
Deposits:
Noninterest-bearing demand 408,766 432,687
Interest-bearing demand, MMDA & savings 728,142 620,244
Time, over 250,000 143,573 148,904
Other time 199,496 190,210
Total deposits 1,479,977 1,392,045
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase 8,429 86,715
Junior subordinated debentures 15,464 15,464
Lease liability 4,312 4,832
Accrued interest payable and other liabilities 17,186 15,838
Total liabilities 1,525,368 1,514,894
Commitments and contingencies
Shareholders' equity:
Preferred stock, no par value; authorized 5,000,000 shares; no shares issued and outstanding - -
Common stock, no par value; authorized 20,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding 5,457,646 shares at September 30, 2024 and 5,534,499 shares at December 31, 2023 48,678 50,625
Common stock held by deferred compensation trust, at cost; 158,905
shares at September 30, 2024 and 163,702 shares at December 31, 2023 (1,772 ) (1,910 )
Deferred compensation 1,772 1,910
Retained earnings 118,542 109,756
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (30,938 ) (39,365 )
Total shareholders' equity 136,282 121,016
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity 1,661,650 1,635,910

All values are in US Dollars.

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

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PEOPLES BANCORP OF NORTH CAROLINA, INC.
--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---
Consolidated Statements of Earnings
Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 and 2023
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)
Three months ended Nine months ended
September 30, September 30,
2024 2023 2024 2023
(Unaudited) (Unaudited) (Unaudited) (Unaudited)
Interest income:
Interest and fees on loans $ 16,098 14,145 46,807 40,695
Interest on due from banks 608 606 2,240 1,506
Interest on investment securities:
U.S. Government sponsored enterprises 2,503 2,358 7,645 6,868
State and political subdivisions 695 696 2,085 2,254
Other 563 501 1,570 1,383
Total interest income 20,467 18,306 60,347 52,706
Interest expense:
NOW, MMDA & savings deposits 2,892 1,752 7,390 4,888
Time deposits 3,611 2,512 10,920 4,666
Junior subordinated debentures 283 284 850 791
Other 132 418 918 912
Total interest expense 6,918 4,966 20,078 11,257
Net interest income 13,549 13,340 40,269 41,449
Provision for (recovery of) credit losses 297 562 (80 ) 1,161
Net interest income after provision for loan losses 13,252 12,778 40,349 40,288
Non-interest income:
Service charges 1,515 1,412 4,201 4,081
Other service charges and fees 163 165 527 510
Gain (loss) on sale of securities, net 5 - 5 (2,488 )
Mortgage banking income 138 72 263 204
Insurance and brokerage commissions 252 291 717 725
Appraisal management fee income 3,073 2,785 8,668 7,469
Miscellaneous 1,949 2,049 6,273 6,286
Total non-interest income 7,095 6,774 20,654 16,787
Non-interest expense:
Salaries and employee benefits 6,602 6,722 20,409 19,508
Occupancy 2,446 1,988 6,662 5,983
Professional fees 590 406 1,617 1,255
Advertising 188 217 565 562
Debit card expense 333 392 1,070 947
FDIC Insurance 189 186 572 556
Appraisal management fee expense 2,436 2,182 6,863 5,881
Miscellaneous 2,232 2,162 6,905 6,884
Total non-interest expense 15,016 14,255 44,663 41,576
Earnings before income taxes 5,331 5,297 16,340 15,499
Income tax expense 1,373 1,170 3,546 3,393
Net earnings $ 3,958 4,127 12,794 12,106
Basic net earnings per share $ 0.74 0.76 2.41 2.22
Diluted net earnings per share $ 0.72 0.74 2.33 2.15
Cash dividends declared per share $ 0.19 0.19 0.73 0.72
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
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PEOPLES BANCORP OF NORTH CAROLINA, INC.
--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 and 2023
(Dollars in thousands)
Three months ended Nine months ended
September 30, September 30,
2024 2023 2024 2023
(Unaudited) (Unaudited) (Unaudited) (Unaudited)
Net earnings $ 3,958 4,127 12,794 12,106
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on securities available for sale 11,756 (9,408 ) 10,945 (6,892 )
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses on securities available for sale included in net earnings (5 ) - (5 ) 2,488
Total other comprehensive income (loss), before income taxes 11,751 (9,408 ) 10,940 (4,404 )
Income tax expense (benefit) related to other comprehensive income:
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on securities available for sale 2,701 (2,162 ) 2,514 (1,584 )
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses on securities available for sale included in net earnings (1 ) - (1 ) 572
Total income tax expense (benefit) related to other comprehensive income 2,700 (2,162 ) 2,513 (1,012 )
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax 9,051 (7,246 ) 8,427 (3,392 )
Total comprehensive income (loss) $ 13,009 (3,119 ) 21,221 8,714
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
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PEOPLES BANCORP OF NORTH CAROLINA, INC.
--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders' Equity
Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 and 2023
(Dollars in thousands)
**** **** **** **** Common Stock **** ****
**** **** **** **** Held By Accumulated ****
**** **** **** **** Deferred Other ****
Common Stock Retained Deferred Compensation Comprehensive ****
Shares Amount Earnings Compensation Trust Loss Total
(Unaudited) (Unaudited) (Unaudited) (Unaudited) (Unaudited) (Unaudited) (Unaudited)
Balance, December 31, 2023 5,534,499 $ 50,625 109,756 1,910 (1,910 ) (39,365 ) 121,016
Common stock repurchase (78,500 ) (1,998 ) - - - - (1,998 )
Cash dividends declared on common stock - - (1,929 ) - - - (1,929 )
Equity incentive plan, net - - - 33 (33 ) - -
Net earnings - - 3,948 - - - 3,948
Change in accumulated other comprehensive income , net of tax - - - - - 55 55
Balance, March 31, 2024 5,455,999 $ 48,627 111,775 1,943 (1,943 ) (39,310 ) 121,092
Cash dividends declared on common stock - - (1,040 ) - - - (1,040 )
Restricted stock units issued 1,647 51 - - - - 51
Equity incentive plan, net - - - 37 (37 ) - -
Net earnings - - 4,888 - - - 4,888
Change in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax - - - - - (679 ) (679 )
Balance, June 30, 2024 5,457,646 $ 48,678 115,623 1,980 (1,980 ) (39,989 ) 124,312
Cash dividends declared on common stock - - (1,039 ) - - - (1,039 )
Equity incentive plan, net - - - (208 ) 208 - -
Net earnings - - 3,958 - - - 3,958
Change in accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax - - - - - 9,051 9,051
Balance, September 30, 2024 5,457,646 $ 48,678 118,542 1,772 (1,772 ) (30,938 ) 136,282
Balance, December 31, 2022 5,636,830 $ 52,636 100,156 2,181 (2,181 ) (47,597 ) 105,195
Adoption of new accounting standard, net of tax - - (838 ) - - - (838 )
Cash dividends declared on common stock - - (1,925 ) - - - (1,925 )
Restricted stock units issued 191 6 - - - - 6
Equity incentive plan, net - - - (344 ) 344 - -
Net earnings - - 3,171 - - - 3,171
Change in accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax - - - - - 9,173 9,173
Balance, March 31, 2023 5,637,021 $ 52,642 100,564 1,837 (1,837 ) (38,424 ) 114,782
Common stock repurchase (46,222 ) (833 ) - - - - (833 )
Cash dividends declared on common stock - - (1,069 ) - - - (1,069 )
Equity incentive plan, net - - - 130 (130 ) - -
Net earnings - - 4,808 - - - 4,808
Change in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax - - - - - (5,319 ) (5,319 )
Balance, June 30, 2023 5,590,799 $ 51,809 104,303 1,967 (1,967 ) (43,743 ) 112,369
Common stock repurchase (41,000 ) (840 ) - - - - (840 )
Cash dividends declared on common stock - - (1,058 ) - - - (1,058 )
Equity incentive plan, net - - - 44 (44 ) - -
Net earnings - - 4,127 - - - 4,127
Change in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax - - - - - (7,246 ) (7,246 )
Balance, September 30, 2023 5,549,799 $ 50,969 107,372 2,011 (2,011 ) (50,989 ) 107,352
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
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PEOPLES BANCORP OF NORTH CAROLINA, INC.
--- --- --- --- --- --- ---
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 and 2023
(Dollars in thousands)
2024 2023
(Unaudited) (Unaudited)
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net earnings $ 12,794 12,106
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation, amortization and accretion 2,184 2,416
Provision for (recovery of) credit losses (80 ) 1,161
Deferred income taxes (63 ) (248 )
Gain on sale of held for sale mortgage loans (211 ) (155 )
(Gain) loss on sale of investment securities net (5 ) 2,488
Write-down of premises and equipment 362 -
Gain on sale of premises and equipment - (185 )
Restricted stock expense 84 (7 )
Proceeds from sales of mortgage loans held for sale 14,677 11,186
Origination of mortgage loans held for sale (14,998 ) (12,668 )
Cash surrender value of life insurance (348 ) (318 )
Change in:
Right of use lease asset 537 578
Other assets (401 ) (93 )
Lease liability (520 ) (553 )
Other liabilities 1,264 1,357
Net cash provided by operating activities 15,276 17,065
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of investment securities available for sale (23,521 ) (6,992 )
Proceeds from sales, calls and maturities of investment securities available for sale 14,708 52,023
Proceeds from paydowns of investment securities available for sale 12,449 13,898
Proceeds from paydowns of other investment securities 128 112
Purchase of FHLB stock (10 ) (323 )
Net change in loans (31,456 ) (45,862 )
Purchases of premises and equipment (427 ) (1,522 )
Proceeds from sale of premises and equipment - 1,460
Net cash provided (used) by investing activities (28,129 ) 12,794
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net change in deposits 87,932 (54,447 )
Net change in securities sold under agreement to repurchase (78,286 ) 35,336
Proceeds from Fed Funds purchased - 43,275
Repayments of Fed Funds purchased - (43,275 )
Common stock repurchased (1,998 ) (1,673 )
Cash dividends paid on common stock (4,008 ) (4,052 )
Net cash provided (used) by financing activities 3,640 (24,836 )
Net change in cash and cash equivalents (9,213 ) 5,023
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 82,375 71,596
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ 73,162 76,619
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PEOPLES BANCORP OF NORTH CAROLINA, INC.
--- --- --- --- --- ---
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, continued
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 and 2023
(Dollars in thousands)
2024 2023
(Unaudited) (Unaudited)
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
Cash paid during the period for:
Interest $ 21,501 10,766
Income taxes $ 3,149 3,462
Noncash investing and financing activities:
Change in unrealized loss on investment securities available for sale, net $ 8,427 (3,392 )
Restricted stock units issued $ 51 6
Initial recognition of lease right-of-use asset and lease liability $ - 370
Allowance for credit losses recorded upon adoption of ASU 326, net of tax $ - (838 )
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
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PEOPLES BANCORP OF NORTH CAROLINA, INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

(1) Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

The Consolidated Financial Statements include the financial statements of Peoples Bancorp of North Carolina, Inc. (the “Company”) and its wholly owned subsidiary, Peoples Bank (the “Bank”), along with the Bank’s wholly owned subsidiaries, Peoples Investment Services, Inc. (“PIS”), Real Estate Advisory Services, Inc. (“REAS”), Community Bank Real Estate Solutions, LLC (“CBRES”) and PB Real Estate Holdings, LLC. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

In June 2006, the Company formed a wholly owned Delaware statutory trust, PEBK Capital Trust II (“PEBK Trust II”), to facilitate the issuance of $20.6 million of trust preferred securities. PEBK Trust II is not included in the Consolidated Financial Statements.

The Consolidated Financial Statements in this report (other than the Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 2023) are unaudited. In the opinion of management, all adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of the financial position and results of operations for the periods presented have been included. Management has made a number of estimates and assumptions relating to the reporting of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities to prepare these Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”). Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Operating segments are components of an enterprise about which separate financial information is available that is evaluated regularly by management in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing performance. Management has determined that the Company has two significant operating segment: Banking Operations and CBRES, as discussed more fully in Note 7. In determining the appropriateness of segment definition, the Company considers the criteria of Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 280, Segment Reporting.

The Company’s accounting policies are fundamental to understanding management’s discussion and analysis of results of operations and financial condition. Many of the Company’s accounting policies require significant judgment regarding valuation of assets and liabilities and/or significant interpretation of the specific accounting guidance. A description of the Company’s significant accounting policies can be found in Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in the Company’s 2023 Annual Report to Shareholders which is Appendix A to the Proxy Statement for the 2024 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. There have been no significant changes to the application of significant accounting policies since December 31, 2023.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

The following table provides a summary of Accounting Standards Updates (“ASU’s”) issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) that the Company has not adopted as of September 30, 2024, which may impact the Company’s financial statements.

ASU Description Effective Date Effect on Financial Statements or Other Significant Matters
ASU 2023-07 Segment Reporting (Topic 280) The ASU provides amendments to improve reportable segment disclosure requirements, primarily through enhanced disclosures about significant segment expenses Annual periods after 12/15/23 and interim periods after 12/15/24 The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s results of operations, financial position.  The adoption of this guidance is expected to have an immaterial impact on disclosures.
ASU 2023-09 Income Taxes (Topic 740) The ASU provides amendments to  improve the transparency of income tax disclosures. January 1, 2025 The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s results of operations, financial position.  The adoption of this guidance is expected to have an immaterial impact on disclosures.
ASU 2024-01 Compensation—Stock Compensation (Topic 718) The ASU adds an illustrative example (with four fact patterns) on how an entity would apply Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 718 scope guidance. January 1, 2025 The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s results of operations, financial position or disclosures.
ASU 2024-02 Codification Improvements Amendments to Remove References to Concepts Statements The ASU removes references to various Concepts Statements. In most instances, the references are extraneous and not required to understand or apply the guidance. In other instances, the references are a substitute for actual wording from a Concepts Statement. In most cases, the ASU is not intended to result in significant accounting changes for most entities. January 1, 2025 The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s results of operations, financial position or disclosures.
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Other accounting standards that have been issued or proposed by FASB or other standards-setting bodies are not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s results of operations, financial position or disclosures.

Reclassification

Certain amounts in the 2023 consolidated financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the 2024 presentation. These reclassifications did not have any impact on shareholders’ equity or net earnings.

(2) Comprehensive Income

The Company reports as comprehensive income all changes in shareholders’ equity during the year from sources other than shareholders. Other comprehensive income refers to all components (revenues, expenses, gains, and losses) of comprehensive income that are excluded from net income. The Company’s only component of other comprehensive income is unrealized gains and losses, net of income tax, on investment securities available for sale.

The following table presents the changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023:

For the three months ended For the nine months ended
(dollars in thousands) September 30,<br><br>2024 September 30,<br><br>2023 September 30,<br><br>2024 September 30,<br><br>2024
Beginning balance $ (39,310 ) $ (38,424 ) $ (39,365 ) $ (47,597 )
Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications, net 8,376 (12,565 ) 8,431 (5,308 )
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (gain) loss, net (4 ) - (4 ) 1,916
Net current period other comprehensive gain (loss) 8,372 (12,565 ) 8,427 (3,392 )
Ending balance $ (30,938 ) $ (50,989 ) $ (30,938 ) $ (50,989 )
(3) Net Earnings Per Share
--- ---

Net earnings per share is based on the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the period while the effects of potential shares outstanding during the period are included in diluted earnings per share. The average market price during the applicable period is used to compute equivalent shares.

Shares held in the deferred compensation plan by the deferred compensation trust are excluded for purposes of calculating the weighted average number of shares outstanding and basic earnings per share in accordance with ASC 260-10-45-40 and ASC 260-10-45-45 through ASC 260-26010-45-46. The reconciliation of the amounts used in the computation of both basic earnings per share and diluted earnings per share for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 is as follows:

For the three months ended September 30, 2024
Net Earnings (Dollars in thousands) Weighted Average Number of Shares Per Share<br><br>Amount
Basic earnings per share $ 3,958 5,295,765 $ 0.74
Effect of dilutive securities:
Restricted stock units - unvested 22,616
Shares held in deferred comp plan by deferred compensation trust 162,576
Diluted earnings per share $ 3,958 5,480,957 $ 0.72
For the nine months ended September 30, 2024
--- --- --- --- --- --- ---
**** Net Earnings (Dollars in thousands) Weighted Average Number of Shares Per Share<br><br>Amount
Basic earnings per share $ 12,794 5,301,742 $ 2.41
Effect of dilutive securities:
Restricted stock units - unvested 20,224
Shares held in deferred comp plan by deferred compensation trust 161,304
Diluted earnings per share $ 12,794 5,483,270 $ 2.33
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For the three months ended September 30, 2023
--- --- --- --- --- --- ---
**** Net Earnings (Dollars in thousands) Weighted Average Number of Shares Per Share<br><br>Amount
Basic earnings per share $ 4,127 5,402,048 $ 0.76
Effect of dilutive securities:
Restricted stock units - unvested 19,070
Shares held in deferred comp plan by deferred compensation trust 166,168
Diluted earnings per share $ 4,127 5,587,286 $ 0.74
For the nine months ended September 30, 2023
--- --- --- --- --- --- ---
Net Earnings (Dollars in thousands) Weighted Average Number of Shares Per Share<br><br>Amount
Basic earnings per share $ 12,106 5,442,788 $ 2.22
Effect of dilutive securities:
Restricted stock units - unvested 18,899
Shares held in deferred comp plan by deferred compensation trust 168,099
Diluted earnings per share $ 12,106 5,629,786 $ 2.15
(4) Investment Securities
--- ---

Investment securities available for sale at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023 are as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
September 30, 2024
Amortized<br><br>Cost Gross<br><br>Unrealized<br><br>Gains Gross<br><br>Unrealized<br><br>Losses Fair<br><br>Value
U.S. Treasuries $ 7,980 - 606 7,374
U.S. Government sponsored enterprises 9,540 - 433 9,107
GSE - Mortgage-backed securities 247,554 263 17,900 229,917
Private label mortgage-backed securities 43,931 166 1,137 42,960
State and political subdivisions 129,733 - 20,518 109,215
Total $ 438,738 429 40,594 398,573
(Dollars in thousands)
--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---
December 31, 2023
Amortized<br><br>Cost Gross<br><br>Unrealized<br><br>Gains Gross<br><br>Unrealized<br><br>Losses Fair<br><br>Value
U.S. Treasuries $ 10,974 - 830 10,144
U.S. Government sponsored enterprises 11,111 - 596 10,515
GSE - Mortgage-backed securities 257,705 185 22,988 234,902
Private label mortgage-backed securities 33,317 16 2,063 31,270
State and political subdivisions 129,922 - 24,829 105,093
Total $ 443,029 201 51,306 391,924

The current fair value and associated unrealized losses on investments in securities with unrealized losses at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023 are summarized in the tables below, with the length of time the individual securities have been in a continuous loss position.

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(Dollars in thousands)
--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---
September 30, 2024
Less than 12 Months 12 Months or More Total
Fair<br><br>Value Unrealized<br><br>Losses Fair<br><br>Value Unrealized<br><br>Losses Fair<br><br>Value Unrealized<br><br>Losses
U.S. Treasuries $ - - 7,374 606 7,374 606
U.S. government sponsored enterprises - - 9,107 433 9,107 433
GSE -Mortgage-backed securities 8,961 114 206,059 17,786 215,020 17,900
Private label mortgage-backed securities 4,001 19 22,438 1,118 26,439 1,137
State and political subdivisions - - 109,215 20,518 109,215 20,518
Total $ 12,962 133 354,193 40,461 367,155 40,594
(Dollars in thousands)
--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---
December 31, 2023
Less than 12 Months 12 Months or More Total
Fair<br><br>Value Unrealized<br><br>Losses Fair<br><br>Value Unrealized<br><br>Losses Fair<br><br>Value Unrealized<br><br>Losses
U.S. Treasuries $ - - 10,144 830 10,144 830
U.S. government sponsored enterprises - - 10,515 596 10,515 596
GSE -Mortgage-backed securities 24,167 546 203,234 22,442 227,401 22,988
Private label mortgage-backed securities 3,416 43 23,095 2,020 26,511 2,063
State and political subdivisions - - 105,093 24,829 105,093 24,829
Total $ 27,583 589 352,081 50,717 379,664 51,306

At September 30, 2024, unrealized losses in the investment securities portfolio relating to debt securities totaled $40.6 million. The unrealized losses on these debt securities arose due to changing interest rates and are considered to be temporary. From the September 30, 2024 tables above, both of the U.S. Treasury securities, all 108 of the securities issued by state and political subdivisions contained unrealized losses, all seven of the securities issued by U.S. Government sponsored enterprises (“GSE”), 110 of the 118 GSE mortgage-backed securities, and 11 of the 16 private label mortgage backed securities contained unrealized losses. The Company did not have any reserves on available for sale securities at September 30, 2024, as no credit related losses were identified in the Company’s September 30, 2024 Current Expected Credit Loss (“CECL”) analysis. At December 31, 2023, unrealized losses in the investment securities portfolio relating to debt securities totaled $51.3 million. The unrealized losses on these debt securities arose due to changing interest rates and are considered to be temporary. From the December 31, 2023 tables above, all three of the U.S. Treasury securities, all 108 of the securities issued by state and political subdivisions contained unrealized losses, all seven of the securities issued by GSE, 114 of the 121 GSE mortgage-backed securities, and 12 of the 14 private label mortgage backed securities contained unrealized losses. The Company did not have an allowance for credit losses on available for sale securities at December 31, 2023, as no credit related losses were identified in the Company’s December 31, 2023 CECL analysis.

The amortized cost and estimated fair value of investment securities available for sale at September 30, 2024, presented by contractual maturity, are shown below. Expected maturities of mortgage-backed securities will differ from contractual maturities because borrowers have the right to prepay obligations with or without prepayment penalties.

September 30, 2024
(Dollars in thousands)
Amortized<br><br>Cost Fair<br><br>Value
Due within one year $ 7,929 7,910
Due from one to five years 18,615 17,437
Due from five to ten years 66,312 57,372
Due after ten years 98,328 85,937
Mortgage-backed securities 247,554 229,917
Total $ 438,738 398,573

During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, proceeds from sales of securities available for sale were $11.7 million and resulted in gross gains of $33,000 and gross losses of $28,000. No securities available for sale were sold during the three months ended September 30, 2023. During the nine months ended September 30, 2023, proceeds from sales of securities available for sale were $51.0 million and resulted in gross losses of $2.7 million and gross gains of $177,000.

Securities with a fair value of approximately $50.6 million and $132.0 million at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively, were pledged to secure public deposits and for other purposes as required by law.

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(5) Loans
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Major classifications of loans at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023 are summarized as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
September 30,<br><br>2024 December 31,<br><br>2023
Real estate loans:
Construction and land development $ 124,322 136,401
Single-family residential 378,697 372,825
Commercial 462,917 425,820
Multifamily and farmland 69,860 63,042
Total real estate loans 1,035,796 998,088
Loans not secured by real estate:
Commercial 65,364 70,544
Farm 478 550
Consumer 6,717 6,966
All other 15,822 16,918
Total loans 1,124,177 1,093,066
Less allowance for credit losses (10,616 ) (11,041 )
Total net loans $ 1,113,561 1,082,025

The Bank makes loans and extensions of credit primarily within the Catawba Valley region of North Carolina, which encompasses Catawba, Alexander, Iredell and Lincoln counties and also in Mecklenburg, Wake, Rowan and Forsyth counties of North Carolina. Although the Bank has a diversified loan portfolio, a substantial portion of the loan portfolio is collateralized by improved and unimproved real estate, the value of which is dependent upon the real estate market. Risk characteristics of the major components of the Bank’s loan portfolio are discussed below:

· Construction and land development loans – The risk of loss is largely dependent on the initial estimate of whether the property’s value at completion equals or exceeds the cost of property construction and the availability of take-out financing. During the construction phase, a number of factors can result in delays or cost overruns. If the estimate is inaccurate or if actual construction costs exceed estimates, the value of the property securing the loan may be insufficient to ensure full repayment when completed through a permanent loan, sale of the property, or by seizure of collateral.
· Single-family residential loans – Declining home sales volumes, decreased real estate values and higher than normal levels of unemployment could contribute to losses on these loans.
· Commercial real estate loans – Repayment is dependent on income being generated in amounts sufficient to cover operating expenses and debt service. These loans also involve greater risk because they are generally not fully amortizing over the loan period, but rather have a balloon payment due at maturity. A borrower’s ability to make a balloon payment typically will depend on being able to either refinance the loan or timely sell the underlying property.
· Commercial loans – Repayment is generally dependent upon the successful operation of the borrower’s business. In addition, the collateral securing the loans may depreciate over time, be difficult to appraise, be illiquid, or fluctuate in value based on the success of the business.
· Multifamily and farmland loans – Decreased real estate values and higher than normal levels of unemployment could contribute to losses on these loans.
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Loans are considered past due if the required principal and interest payments have not been received within 30 days of the date such payments were due. Loans are placed on non-accrual status when, in management’s opinion, the borrower may be unable to meet payment obligations as they become due, as well as when required by regulatory provisions. Generally, a loan is placed on non-accrual status when it is over 90 days past due and there is reasonable doubt that all principal will be collected. When interest accrual is discontinued, all unpaid accrued interest is reversed. Interest income is subsequently recognized only to the extent cash payments are received in excess of principal due. Loans are returned to accrual status when all the principal and interest amounts contractually due are brought current and future payments are reasonably assured.

The following tables present an age analysis of past due loans, by loan type, as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023:

September 30, 2024
(Dollars in thousands)
Loans 30-89 Days Past Due Nonaccrual Loans Total Past Due Loans Total Current Loans Total Loans Accruing Loans 90 or More Days Past Due
Real estate loans:
Construction and land development $ 131 38 169 124,153 124,322 -
Single-family residential 1,159 3,612 4,771 373,926 378,697 -
Commercial 427 6 433 462,484 462,917 -
Multifamily and farmland - - - 69,860 69,860 -
Total real estate loans 1,717 3,656 5,373 1,030,423 1,035,796 -
Loans not secured by real estate:
Commercial 175 250 425 64,939 65,364 -
Farm - - - 478 478 -
Consumer 27 16 43 6,674 6,717 -
All other - - - 15,822 15,822 -
Total loans $ 1,919 3,922 5,841 1,118,336 1,124,177 -
December 31, 2023
--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---
(Dollars in thousands)
Loans 30-89 Days Past Due Nonaccrual Loans Total Past Due Loans Total Current Loans Total Loans Accruing Loans 90 or More Days Past Due
Real estate loans:
Construction and land development $ 5 45 50 136,351 136,401 -
Single-family residential 3,761 3,302 7,063 365,762 372,825 -
Commercial 13 - 13 425,807 425,820 -
Multifamily and farmland - 76 76 62,966 63,042 -
Total real estate loans 3,779 3,423 7,202 990,886 998,088 -
Loans not secured by real estate:
Commercial 125 463 588 69,956 70,544 -
Farm - 1 1 549 550 -
Consumer 63 - 63 6,903 6,966 -
All other - - - 16,918 16,918 -
Total loans $ 3,967 3,887 7,854 1,085,212 1,093,066 -
15
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The following table presents non-accrual loans as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023:

September 30, 2024
Nonaccrual<br><br>Loans Nonaccrual<br><br>Loans Total
With No With Nonaccrual
(Dollars in thousands) Allowance Allowance Loans
Real estate loans:
Construction and land development $ 38 - 38
Single-family residential 3,612 - 3,612
Multifamily and farmland 6 - 6
Total real estate loans 3,656 - 3,656
Loans not secured by real estate:
Commercial 250 - 250
Consumer 16 - 16
Total $ 3,922 - 3,922
December 31, 2023
--- --- --- --- --- --- ---
Nonaccrual<br><br>Loans Nonaccrual<br><br>Loans Total
With No With Nonaccrual
(Dollars in thousands) Allowance Allowance Loans
Real estate loans:
Construction and land development $ 45 - 45
Single-family residential 3,302 - 3,302
Multifamily and farmland 76 - 76
Total real estate loans 3,423 - 3,423
Loans not secured by real estate:
Commercial 31 432 463
Consumer 1 - 1
Total $ 3,455 432 3,887

No interest income was recognized on non-accrual loans for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023.

The allowance for credit losses incorporates an estimate of lifetime expected credit losses and is recorded on each asset upon origination or acquisition. The starting point for the estimate of the allowance for credit losses is historical loss information, which includes losses from modifications of receivables to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty. An assessment of whether a borrower is experiencing financial difficulty is made on the date of a modification.

A change to the allowance for credit losses is evaluated based on the nature of the modification. Occasionally, the Bank modifies loans by providing principal forgiveness on certain loans. When principal forgiveness is provided, the amortized cost basis of the asset is written off against the allowance for credit losses. The amount of the principal forgiveness is deemed to be uncollectible; therefore, that portion of the loan is written off, resulting in a reduction of the amortized cost basis and a corresponding adjustment to the allowance for credit losses.

In some cases, the Bank may modify a certain loan by providing multiple types of concessions. Typically, one type of concession, such as a term extension, is granted initially. If the borrower continues to experience financial difficulty, another concession, such as principal forgiveness, may be granted.

The following tables show the amortized cost basis at September 30, 2024 and 2023 of the loans to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty that were modified during the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, disaggregated by loan class and type of concession granted. One $30,000 loan to a borrower experiencing financial difficulty was modified during the three months ended September 30, 2024. No loans to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty were modified during the three months ended September 30, 2023. Modifications during the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 are not presented in tables due to immateriality.

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Table of Contents
(Dollars in thousands)
--- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---
Amortized Cost Basis at<br><br>September 30,<br><br>2024 % of Loan Class Modification Type Financial Effect
Loan class:
Single-family residential $ 230 0.06 % Interest rate reduction and term extension Adjustable rate loan converted to fixed rate loan and HELOC converted to amortizing term loan
Commercial not secured by real estate 71 0.11 % Term extension Line of credit converted to amortizing term loan
Total $ 301
(Dollars in thousands)
--- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---
Amortized Cost Basis at<br><br>September 30,<br><br>2023 % of Loan Class Modification Type Financial Effect
Loan class:
Single-family residential $ 154 0.04 % Term extension Forbearance agreement on matured home equity line of credit (HELOC) that was modified to 180 month term.
Commercial real estate 673 0.16 % Term extension Extended existing amortization from 148 months to 173 months to keep existing payment the same with the current market rate.
Total $ 827

No loans modified in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 that were made to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty had been written off at September 30, 2024 and 2023.

The Bank closely monitors the performance of those loans that are modified because borrowers are experiencing financial difficulty so as to understand the effectiveness of its modification efforts. The following tables show the performance of loans that have been modified in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023.

September 30, 2024
(Dollars in thousands)
Payment Status (Amortized Cost Basis)
Current 30 - 89 Days<br><br>Past Due 90 + Days<br><br>Past Due
Loan type:
Single-family residential $ 230
Commercial not secured by real estate 71 - -
Total $ 301 - -
September 30, 2023
--- --- --- --- --- --- ---
(Dollars in thousands)
Payment Status (Amortized Cost Basis)
Current 30 - 89 Days<br><br>Past Due 90 + Days<br><br>Past Due
Loan type:
Single-family residential $ 154 - -
Commercial real estate 673 - -
Total $ 827 - -
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The following tables present changes in the allowance for credit losses for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023.

(Dollars in thousands)
Real Estate Loans
Construction and Land Development Single-Family Residential Commercial Multifamily and Farmland Commercial Farm Consumer and All Other Total
Three months ended September 30, 2024
Allowance for credit losses:
Beginning balance $ 3,318 3,484 2,374 271 368 1 200 10,016
Charge-offs - - - - (50 ) - (157 ) (207 )
Recoveries - 29 - - 6 - 69 104
Provision (recovery) for loan losses (1) 245 (19 ) 179 63 130 - 105 703
Ending balance $ 3,563 3,494 2,553 334 454 1 217 10,616
Allowance for credit loss-loans $ 3,563 3,494 2,553 334 454 1 217 10,616
Allowance for credit losses - loan commitments 1,144 1 - - 11 - 3 1,159
Total allowance for credit losses $ 4,707 3,495 2,553 334 465 1 220 11,775
Nine months ended September 30, 2024
Allowance for credit losses:
Beginning balance $ 3,913 3,484 2,317 268 812 2 245 11,041
Charge-offs - (126 ) - - (797 ) - (513 ) (1,436 )
Recoveries - 99 202 - 45 - 134 480
Provision (recovery) for loan losses (1) (350 ) 37 34 66 394 (1 ) 351 531
Ending balance $ 3,563 3,494 2,553 334 454 1 217 10,616
Allowance for credit loss-loans $ 3,563 3,494 2,553 334 454 1 217 10,616
Allowance for credit losses - loan commitments 1,144 1 - - 11 - 3 1,159
Total allowance for credit losses $ 4,707 3,495 2,553 334 465 1 220 11,775
(1) Excludes provision for credit losses related to unfunded commitments. Note 8,"Commitments and Contingencies" in the consolidated financial statements provides more detail concerning the provision for credit losses related to unfunded commitments.
18
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(Dollars in thousands)
--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---
Real Estate Loans
Construction and Land Development Single-Family Residential Commercial Multifamily and Farmland Commercial Farm Consumer and All Other Unallocated Total
Three months ended September 30, 2023
Allowance for credit losses:
Beginning balance $ 3,227 3,302 2,365 288 367 2 238 - 9,789
Charge-offs - - - - (94 ) - (141 ) - (235 )
Recoveries - 8 1 - 8 - 24 - 41
Provision (recovery) for loan losses (1) 391 105 (12 ) (15 ) 90 - 131 - 690
Ending balance $ 3,618 3,415 2,354 273 371 2 252 - 10,285
Allowance for credit loss-loans $ 3,618 3,415 2,354 273 371 2 252 - 10,285
Allowance for credit losses - loan commitments 2,071 58 - - - - 2 - 2,131
Total allowance for credit losses $ 5,689 3,473 2,354 273 371 2 254 - 12,416
Nine months ended September 30, 2023
Allowance for credit losses:
Beginning balance $ 1,415 3,085 3,207 164 657 - 214 1,752 10,494
Adjustment for CECL
implementation (1) 1,584 64 (986 ) 115 (295 ) 2 48 (1,752 ) (1,220 )
Charge-offs - - - - (129 ) - (450 ) - (579 )
Recoveries - 131 5 - 40 - 106 - 282
Provision (recovery) for loan losses (1) 619 135 128 (6 ) 98 - 334 - 1,308
Ending balance $ 3,618 3,415 2,354 273 371 2 252 - 10,285
Allowance for credit loss-loans $ 3,618 3,415 2,354 273 371 2 252 - 10,285
Allowance for credit losses - loan commitments 2,071 58 - - - - 2 - 2,131
Total allowance for credit losses $ 5,689 3,473 2,354 273 371 2 254 - 12,416
(1) Excludes adjustment for CECL implemenation and provision for credit losses related to unfunded commitments. Note 8,"Commitments and Contingencies" in the consolidated financial statements provides more detail concerning the implementation adjustment and provision for credit losses related to unfunded commitments.

There were no collateral dependent loans individually evaluated at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023.

The Bank utilizes several credit quality indicators to manage credit risk in an ongoing manner. The Bank uses an internal risk grade system that categorizes loans into pass, watch or substandard categories.

The Bank uses the following credit quality indicators:

· Pass – Includes loans ranging from excellent quality with a minimal amount of credit risk to loans with higher risk and servicing needs but still are considered to be acceptable. The higher risk loans in this category are not problem credits presently, but may be in the future if the borrower is unable to change its present course.
· Watch – These loans are currently performing satisfactorily, but there has been some recent past due history on repayment and there are potential weaknesses that may, if not corrected, weaken the asset or inadequately protect the Bank’s position at some future date.
· Substandard – A Substandard loan is inadequately protected by the current sound net worth and paying capacity of the obligor or the collateral pledged (if there is any). There is a well-defined weakness or weaknesses that jeopardize the liquidation of the debt. There is a distinct possibility that the Bank will sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected.
· Doubtful – Loans classified Doubtful have all the weaknesses inherent in loans classified Substandard, plus the added characteristic that the weaknesses make collection or liquidation in full on the basis of currently existing facts, conditions, and values highly questionable and improbable.
· Loss – Loans classified Loss are considered uncollectable and of such little value that their continuance as bankable assets is not warranted. This classification does not mean that the asset has absolutely no recovery or salvage value, but rather that it is not practical or desirable to defer writing off this worthless loan even though partial recovery may be affected in the future.
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The following table presents by credit quality indicator, loan class and year of origination, the amortized cost of the Bank’s loans as of September 30, 2024.

Term Loans by Origination Year Revolving
Loans
(dollars in thousands) Revolving Converted to Total
2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 Prior Loans Term Loans Loans
September 30, 2024
Real Estate Loans
Construction and land development
Pass $ 32,962 30,168 43,073 6,959 6,315 4,328 - - 123,805
Watch - - - 444 - - - - 444
Substandard - - - - - 73 - - 73
Total Construction and land development $ 32,962 30,168 43,073 7,403 6,315 4,401 - - 124,322
Single family
Pass $ 16,100 34,921 76,307 44,736 22,387 68,475 108,479 - 371,405
Watch - - - - - 1,432 993 - 2,425
Substandard - 32 929 - 127 3,558 221 - 4,867
Total single family $ 16,100 34,953 77,236 44,736 22,514 73,465 109,693 - 378,697
Commercial
Pass $ 50,958 46,966 125,291 73,004 59,129 101,599 2,118 - 459,065
Watch - - - - - 3,445 - - 3,445
Substandard - - - - 401 6 - - 407
Total commercial $ 50,958 46,966 125,291 73,004 59,530 105,050 2,118 - 462,917
Multifamily and farmland
Pass $ 411 8,556 20,994 20,961 6,193 12,190 443 - 69,748
Watch - - - - - 44 - - 44
Substandard - - - - - 68 - - 68
Total multifamily and farmland $ 411 8,556 20,994 20,961 6,193 12,302 443 - 69,860
Total real estate loans $ 100,431 120,643 266,594 146,104 94,552 195,218 112,254 - 1,035,796
Loans not secured by real estate
Commercial
Pass $ 7,786 10,597 10,960 3,475 1,890 12,959 16,591 - 64,258
Watch - 307 - 71 267 210 1 - 856
Substandard - 27 223 - - - - - 250
Total Commercial $ 7,786 10,931 11,183 3,546 2,157 13,169 16,592 - 65,364
Farm
Pass $ 56 199 20 55 - 5 143 - 478
Watch - - - - - - - - -
Substandard - - - - - - - - -
Total farm $ 56 199 20 55 - 5 143 - 478
Consumer
Pass $ 1,580 1,423 876 212 118 74 2,395 - 6,678
Watch - - 22 - - - - - 22
Substandard - 5 - - - 9 3 - 17
Total consumer $ 1,580 1,428 898 212 118 83 2,398 - 6,717
All other
Pass $ 611 - 6,276 401 230 3,011 5,162 - 15,691
Watch - - - - - 131 - - 131
Substandard - - - - - - - - -
Total all other $ 611 - 6,276 401 230 3,142 5,162 - 15,822
Total loans not secured by real estate $ 10,033 12,558 18,377 4,214 2,505 16,399 24,295 - 88,381
Total loans $ 110,464 133,201 284,971 150,318 97,057 211,617 136,549 - 1,124,177

The following table presents by credit quality indicator, loan class and year of origination, gross loan charge-offs during the nine months ended September 30, 2024.

Gross Loan Charge-offs by Origination Year Revolving
Loans
(dollars in thousands) Revolving Converted to Total
2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 Prior Loans Term Loans Loans
Real estate loans:
Construction and land development $ - - - - - - - - -
Single-family residential - - 126 - - - - - 126
Commercial - - - - - - - - -
Multifamily and farmland - - - - - - - - -
Total real estate loans - - 126 - - - - - 126
Loans not secured by real estate:
Commercial - 347 397 3 50 - - - 797
Consumer - 23 4 - - 379 - - 406
All other - - - - - 107 - - 107
Total gross charge-offs $ - 370 527 3 50 486 - - 1,436
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The following table presents by credit quality indicator, loan class and year of origination, the amortized cost of the Bank’s loans as of December 31, 2023.

Term Loans by Origination Year Revolving
Loans
(dollars in thousands) Revolving Converted to Total
2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 Prior Loans Term Loans Loans
December 31, 2023
Real Estate Loans
Construction and land development
Pass $ 40,034 71,429 10,736 6,692 1,721 3,914 1,337 - 135,863
Watch - - 448 - - - - - 448
Substandard - - - - - 90 - - 90
Total Construction and land development $ 40,034 71,429 11,184 6,692 1,721 4,004 1,337 - 136,401
Single family
Pass $ 32,333 76,326 47,490 24,813 12,984 64,847 106,962 - 365,755
Watch - - - - 89 1,389 860 - 2,338
Substandard - - - - 11 4,342 379 - 4,732
Total single family $ 32,333 76,326 47,490 24,813 13,084 70,578 108,201 - 372,825
Commercial
Pass $ 45,755 109,255 78,645 61,973 29,579 92,753 2,158 - 420,118
Watch 232 - - 116 - 4,943 - - 5,291
Substandard - - - 411 - - - - 411
Total commercial $ 45,987 109,255 78,645 62,500 29,579 97,696 2,158 - 425,820
Multifamily and farmland
Pass $ 7,987 13,286 21,512 6,624 3,158 9,851 501 - 62,919
Watch - - - - - 47 - - 47
Substandard - - - - - 76 - - 76
Total multifamily and farmland $ 7,987 13,286 21,512 6,624 3,158 9,974 501 - 63,042
Total real estate loans $ 126,341 270,296 158,831 100,629 47,542 182,252 112,197 - 998,088
Loans not secured by real estate
Commercial
Pass $ 9,561 14,122 4,841 2,942 2,232 12,030 23,411 - 69,139
Watch - - - - 57 102 783 - 942
Substandard 31 - - - - - - - 31
Loss - 82 - - - - 350 432
Total Commercial $ 9,592 14,204 4,841 2,942 2,289 12,132 24,544 - 70,544
Farm
Pass $ 198 42 83 - 1 27 199 - 550
Watch - - - - - - - - -
Substandard - - - - - - - - -
Total farm $ 198 42 83 - 1 27 199 - 550
Consumer
Pass $ 2,262 1,352 404 222 72 58 2,591 - 6,961
Watch - - - - - - - - -
Substandard - - 2 - - - 3 - 5
Total consumer $ 2,262 1,352 406 222 72 58 2,594 - 6,966
All other
Pass $ 79 6,401 474 274 599 3,698 5,256 - 16,781
Watch - - - - - 74 63 - 137
Substandard - - - - - - - - -
Total all other $ 79 6,401 474 274 599 3,772 5,319 - 16,918
Total loans not secured by real estate $ 12,131 21,999 5,804 3,438 2,961 15,989 32,656 - 94,978
Total loans $ 138,472 292,295 164,635 104,067 50,503 198,241 144,853 - 1,093,066
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The following table presents by credit quality indicator, loan class and year of origination, gross loan charge-offs during the year ended December 31, 2023.

Gross Loan Charge-offs by Origination Year Revolving
Loans
(dollars in thousands) Revolving Converted to Total
2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 Prior Loans Term Loans Loans
Real estate loans:
Construction and land development $ - - - - - - - - -
Single-family residential - - - - - - - - -
Commercial - - - - - - - - -
Multifamily and farmland - - - - - - - - -
Total real estate loans - - - - - - - - -
Loans not secured by real estate:
Commercial - 49 51 16 - 13 - - 129
Farm - - - - - - - - -
Consumer - 41 53 6 1 468 - - 569
All other - - - - - - - - -
Total gross charge-offs $ - 90 104 22 1 481 - - 698
(6) Leases
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As of September 30, 2024, the Bank had operating right of use assets of $4.2 million and operating lease liabilities of $4.3 million. The Bank maintains operating leases on land and buildings for some of the Bank’s branch facilities and loan production offices. Most leases include one option to renew, with renewal terms extending up to 15 years. The exercise of renewal options is based on the judgment of management as to whether or not the renewal option is reasonably certain to be exercised. Factors in determining whether an option is reasonably certain of exercise include, but are not limited to, the value of leasehold improvements, the value of renewal rates compared to market rates, and the presence of factors that would cause a significant economic penalty to the Bank if the option is not exercised. Leases with a term of 12 months or less are not recorded on the balance sheet and instead are recognized in lease expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

The following table presents lease cost and other lease information as of September 30, 2024 and 2023.

(Dollars in thousands)
September 30,<br><br>2024 September 30,<br><br>2023
Operating lease cost $ 630 $ 605
Other information:
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities 613 583
Operating cash flows from operating leases - -
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new lease liabilities - operating leases - 370
Weighted-average remaining lease term - operating leases 8.03 8.61
Weighted-average discount rate - operating leases 2.78 % 2.71 %

The following table presents lease maturities as of September 30, 2024.

(Dollars in thousands)
Maturity Analysis of Operating Lease Liabilities: September 30,<br><br>2024
2024 $ 205
2025 773
2026 650
2027 612
2028 510
Thereafter 2,116
Total 4,866
Less: Imputed Interest (554 )
Operating Lease Liability $ 4,312
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(7) Securities Sold Under Agreements to Repurchase (“repurchase agreements”)
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The Bank utilizes repurchase agreements to facilitate the needs of our customers and provide additional funding to our balance sheet. Repurchase agreements are transactions whereby we offer to sell to a counterparty an undivided interest in an eligible security at an agreed upon purchase price, and which obligates the Bank to repurchase the security on an agreed upon date at an agreed upon repurchase price plus interest at an agreed upon rate. Securities sold under repurchase agreements are recorded at the amount of cash received in connection with the transaction and are reflected in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. Repurchase agreements are subject to terms and conditions of the master repurchase agreements between the Bank and the customer and are accounted for as secured borrowings. At September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, repurchase agreements totaled $8.4 million and $86.7 million, respectively.

These borrowings were collateralized with government-sponsored enterprise securities with a market value of $17.2 million and $89.8 million at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. We monitor collateral levels on a continuous basis and maintain records of each transaction specifically describing the applicable security and the counterparty’s fractional interest in that security, and we segregate the security from its general assets in accordance with regulations governing custodial holdings of securities. The primary risk with repurchase agreements is market risk associated with the securities securing the transactions, as we may be required to provide additional collateral based on fair value changes of the underlying securities.

(8) Commitments and Contingencies

The Bank is party to financial instruments with off-balance-sheet risk in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of its customers. These financial instruments include commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit. Those instruments involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit risk in excess of the amount recognized in the balance sheet. The contract amounts of those instruments reflect the extent of involvement the Bank has in particular classes of financial instruments.

The exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the other party to the financial instrument for commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit is represented by the contractual amount of those instruments. The Bank uses the same credit policies in making commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit as it does for on-balance-sheet instruments.

In most cases, the Bank requires collateral or other security to support financial instruments with credit risk.

(Dollars in thousands)
Contractual Amount
09/30/24 12/31/23
Financial instruments with credit risk:
Commitments to extend credit $ 355,369 367,482
Standby letters of credit 3,769 3,721
$ 359,138 371,203

Commitments to extend credit are conditional agreements to lend to a customer. Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates and because they may expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amount of $359.1 million does not necessarily represent future cash requirements.

Standby letters of credit are conditional commitments issued by the Bank to pay a third party on behalf of a customer. Those letters of credit are primarily issued to businesses in the Bank’s delineated market area. The credit risk involved in issuing letters of credit is essentially the same as that involved in extending loan facilities to customers. The Bank holds real estate, equipment, automobiles and customer deposits as collateral supporting those commitments for which collateral is deemed necessary.

The Company maintains an allowance for off-balance sheet credit exposures such as unfunded balances for existing lines of credit, commitments to extend future credit, when this extension of credit is not unconditionally cancelable. The allowance for off-balance sheet credit exposures is adjusted as a provision for credit loss expense. The estimate includes consideration of the likelihood that funding will occur, which is based on a historical funding activity and an estimate of expected credit losses on commitments expected to be funded over its estimated life, which are the same loss rates that are used in computing the allowance for credit losses on loans. The allowance for credit losses for unfunded loan commitments of $1.2 million and $2.1 million at September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively, is separately classified on the balance sheet within Other Liabilities.

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The following table presents the balance and activity in the allowance for credit losses for unfunded loan commitments for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023.

(dollars in thousands) For three months ended For nine months ended
September 30,<br><br>2024 September 30,<br><br>2023 September 30,<br><br>2024 September 30,<br><br>2023
Beginning Balance $ 1,565 $ 2,259 $ 1,770 $ -
Cummulative effect of change in accounting principle - - - 2,278
Recovery of credit losses (406 ) (128 ) (611 ) (147 )
Ending balance $ 1,159 $ 2,131 $ 1,159 $ 2,131
(9) Fair Value
--- ---

The Company is required to disclose fair value information about financial instruments, whether or not recognized at fair value on the face of the balance sheet, for which it is practicable to estimate that value. The assumptions used in the estimation of the fair value of the Company’s financial instruments are detailed below. Where quoted prices are not available, fair values are based on estimates using discounted cash flows and other valuation techniques. The use of discounted cash flows can be significantly affected by the assumptions used, including the discount rate and estimates of future cash flows. The following disclosures should not be considered a surrogate of the liquidation value of the Company, but rather a good faith estimate of the increase or decrease in the value of financial instruments held by the Company since purchase, origination, or issuance.

The Company groups assets and liabilities at fair value in three levels, based on the markets in which the assets and liabilities are traded and the reliability of the assumptions used to determine fair value. These levels are:

· Level 1 – Valuation is based upon quoted prices for identical instruments traded in active markets.
· Level 2 – Valuation is based upon quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active, and model-based valuation techniques for which all significant assumptions are observable in the market.
· Level 3 – Valuation is generated from model-based techniques that use at least one significant assumption not observable in the market. These unobservable assumptions reflect estimates of assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. Valuation techniques include use of option pricing models, discounted cash flow models and similar techniques.

Investment Securities Available for Sale

Fair values of investment securities available for sale are determined by obtaining quoted prices on nationally recognized securities exchanges when available. If quoted prices are not available, fair value is determined using matrix pricing, which is a mathematical technique used widely 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. Fair values for investment securities with quoted market prices are reported in the Level 1 fair value category. Fair value measurements obtained from independent pricing services are reported in the Level 2 fair value category. All other fair value measurements are reported in the Level 3 fair value category.

Mortgage Loans Held for Sale

Mortgage loans held for sale are carried at lower of aggregate cost or market value. The cost of mortgage loans held for sale approximates the market value. Mortgage loans held for sale are reported in the Level 2 fair value category. Management determined that the valuation technique used at current period end and prior period end are more appropriately classified as Level 2 and has updated in the current period and prior period year end classifications to Level 2.

Loans

The fair value of loans, excluding previously presented individually evaluated loans measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis, is estimated using discounted cash flow analyses. The discount rates used to determine fair value use interest rate spreads that reflect factors such as liquidity, credit, and nonperformance risk of the loans. Loans are reported in the Level 3 fair value category, as the pricing of loans is more subjective than the pricing of other financial instruments.

Mutual Funds

For mutual funds held in the deferred compensation trust, the carrying value is a reasonable estimate of fair value. Mutual funds held in the deferred compensation trust are included in other assets on the balance sheet and reported in the Level 1 fair value category.

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FHLB Borrowings

The fair value of FHLB borrowings is estimated based upon discounted future cash flows using a discount rate comparable to the current market rate for such borrowings. FHLB borrowings are reported in the Level 2 fair value category. Management determined that the valuation technique used at current period end and prior period end are more appropriately classified as Level 2 and has updated in the current period and prior period year end classifications to Level 2.

Commitments to Extend Credit and Standby Letters of Credit

Commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit are generally short-term in duration and made at variable interest rates. Therefore, both the carrying value and estimated fair value associated with these instruments are immaterial.

Limitations

Fair value estimates are made at a specific point in time, based on relevant market information and information about the financial instrument. These estimates do not reflect any premium or discount that could result from offering for sale at one time the Company’s entire holdings of a particular financial instrument. Because no market exists for a significant portion of the Company’s financial instruments, fair value estimates are based on many judgments. These estimates are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment and therefore cannot be determined with precision. Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the estimates.

Fair value estimates are based on existing on and off-balance sheet financial instruments without attempting to estimate the value of anticipated future business and the value of assets and liabilities that are not considered financial instruments. Significant assets and liabilities that are not considered financial instruments include deferred income taxes and premises and equipment. In addition, the tax ramifications related to the realization of unrealized gains and losses can have a significant effect on fair value estimates and have not been considered in the estimates.

The tables below present all financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis by level within the fair value hierarchy, as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023.

(Dollars in thousands)
September 30, 2024
Fair Value Level 1 Valuation Level 2 Valuation Level 3 Valuation
U.S. Treasuries $ 7,374 - 7,374 -
U.S. Government sponsored enterprises 9,107 - 9,107 -
GSE - Mortgage-backed securities 229,917 - 229,917 -
Private label mortgage-backed securities 42,960 - 42,960 -
State and political subdivisions 109,215 - 109,215 -
(Dollars in thousands)
--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---
December 31, 2023
Fair Value Level 1 Valuation Level 2 Valuation Level 3 Valuation
U.S. Treasuries $ 10,144 - 10,144 -
U.S. Government sponsored enterprises 10,515 10,515
GSE - Mortgage-backed securities 234,902 - 234,902 -
Private label mortgage-backed securities 31,270 - 31,270 -
State and political subdivisions 105,093 - 105,093 -

The fair value measurements for individually evaluated loans on a non-recurring basis at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023 are presented below. The fair value measurement process uses certified appraisals and other market-based information; however, in many cases, it also requires significant input based on management’s knowledge of, and judgment about, current market conditions, specific issues relating to the collateral and other matters. As a result, all fair value measurements for individually evaluated loans and other real estate are considered Level 3. There were no individually evaluated loans at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023

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The carrying amount and estimated fair value of financial instruments at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023 are as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
Fair Value Measurements at September 30, 2024
Carrying Amount Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 73,162 73,162 - - 73,162
Investment securities available for sale 398,573 - 398,573 - 398,573
Other investments 2,753 - - 2,753 2,753
Mortgage loans held for sale 1,218 - 1,218 - 1,218
Loans, net 1,113,561 - - 1,107,886 1,107,886
Mutual funds held in deferred compensation trust 2,533 2,533 - - 2,533
Liabilities:
Deposits $ 1,479,977 - 1,483,082 - 1,483,082
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase 8,429 - 8,429 - 8,429
Junior subordinated debentures 15,464 - 15,464 - 15,464
(Dollars in thousands)
--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---
Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2023
Carrying Amount Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 82,375 82,375 - - 82,375
Investment securities available for sale 391,924 - 391,924 - 391,924
Other investments 2,874 - - 2,874 2,874
Mortgage loans held for sale 686 - 686 - 686
Loans, net 1,082,025 - - 1,071,178 1,071,178
Mutual funds held in deferred compensation trust 2,171 2,171 - - 2,171
Liabilities:
Deposits $ 1,392,045 - 1,397,351 - 1,397,351
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase 86,715 - 86,715 - 86,715
Junior subordinated debentures 15,464 - 15,464 - 15,464
(10) Reportable Segments
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The Company has two reportable segments, as described below.

Banking Operations – This segment reflects the consolidated Bank, excluding CBRES. The primary source of revenue for this segment is net interest income.

CBRES – A Bank subsidiary that provides appraisal management services to community banks. The primary source of revenue for this segment is appraisal management fee income.

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The following table presents financial information for the reportable segments. The information provided under the caption “Other” represents financial information for the Company, which is not considered to be a reportable segment, and is included to reconcile the results of the reportable segments to the Consolidated Financial Statements prepared in conformity with GAAP.

(Dollars in thousands)
Banking
Operations CBRES Other Consolidated
As of and for the three months ended September 30, 2024
Interest income $ 20,458 $ - $ 9 $ 20,467
Interest expense 6,635 - 283 6,918
Net interest income 13,823 - (274 ) 13,549
Provision for (recovery of) credit losses 297 - - 297
Noninterest income 4,022 - - 4,022
Appraisal management fee income - 3,073 - 3,073
Noninterest expense 11,988 424 168 12,580
Appraisal management fee expense - 2,436 - 2,436
Income tax expense (benefit) 1,417 49 (93 ) 1,373
Net income (loss) $ 4,143 $ 164 $ (349 ) $ 3,958
Total assets $ 1,656,990 $ 4,183 $ 477 $ 1,661,650
As of and for the three months ended September 30, 2023
Interest income $ 18,297 $ - $ 9 $ 18,306
Interest expense 4,681 - 285 4,966
Net interest income 13,616 - (276 ) 13,340
Provision for (recovery of) credit losses 562 - - 562
Noninterest income 3,989 - - 3,989
Appraisal management fee income - 2,785 - 2,785
Noninterest expense 11,515 401 157 12,073
Appraisal management fee expense - 2,182 - 2,182
Income tax expense (benefit) 1,215 46 (91 ) 1,170
Net income (loss) $ 4,313 $ 156 $ (342 ) $ 4,127
Total assets $ 1,603,071 $ 3,713 $ 480 $ 1,607,264
As of and for the nine months ended September 30, 2024
Interest income $ 60,319 $ - $ 28 $ 60,347
Interest expense 19,228 - 850 20,078
Net interest income 41,091 - (822 ) 40,269
Provision for (recovery of) credit losses (80 ) - - (80 )
Noninterest income 11,986 - - 11,986
Appraisal management fee income - 8,668 - 8,668
Noninterest expense 36,113 1,167 520 37,800
Appraisal management fee expense - 6,863 - 6,863
Income tax expense (benefit) 3,681 147 (282 ) 3,546
Net income (loss) $ 13,363 $ 491 $ (1,060 ) $ 12,794
Total assets $ 1,656,990 $ 4,183 $ 477 $ 1,661,650
As of and for the nine months ended September 30, 2023
Interest income $ 52,680 $ - $ 26 $ 52,706
Interest expense 10,466 - 791 11,257
Net interest income 42,214 - (765 ) 41,449
Provision for (recovery of) credit losses 1,161 - - 1,161
Noninterest income 9,318 - - 9,318
Appraisal management fee income - 7,469 - 7,469
Noninterest expense 34,118 1,094 483 35,695
Appraisal management fee expense - 5,881 - 5,881
Income tax expense (benefit) 3,541 114 (262 ) 3,393
Net income (loss) $ 12,712 $ 380 $ (986 ) $ 12,106
Total assets $ 1,603,071 $ 3,713 $ 480 1,607,264
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Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

The following is a discussion of the financial position and results of operations of the Company and should be read in conjunction with the information set forth under Item 1A Risk Factors in the Company’s Annual Report of Form 10-K and the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto on pages A-20 through A-62 of the Company’s 2023 Annual Report to Shareholders which is Appendix A to the Proxy Statement for the 2024 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.

Introduction

Management’s discussion and analysis of earnings and related data are presented to assist in understanding the consolidated financial condition and results of operations of the Company. The Company is the parent company of the Bank and a registered bank holding company operating under the supervision of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (the “Federal Reserve”). The Bank is a North Carolina-chartered bank, with offices in Catawba, Lincoln, Alexander, Mecklenburg, Iredell, Wake, Rowan and Forsyth counties, operating under the banking laws of North Carolina and the rules and regulations of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the “FDIC”).

Overview

Our business consists principally of attracting deposits from the general public and investing these funds in commercial loans, real estate mortgage loans, real estate construction loans and consumer loans. Our profitability depends primarily on our net interest income, which is the difference between the income we receive on our loan and investment securities portfolios and our cost of funds, which consists of interest paid on deposits and borrowed funds. Net interest income also is affected by the relative amounts of our interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities. When interest-earning assets approximate or exceed interest-bearing liabilities, a positive interest rate spread will generate net interest income. Our profitability is also affected by the level of other income and operating expenses. Other income consists primarily of miscellaneous fees related to our loans and deposits, mortgage banking income and commissions from sales of annuities and mutual funds. Operating expenses consist of compensation and benefits, occupancy related expenses, federal deposit and other insurance premiums, data processing, advertising and other expenses.

Our operations are influenced significantly by local economic conditions and by policies of financial institution regulatory authorities. The earnings on our assets are influenced by the effects of, and changes in, trade, monetary and fiscal policies and laws, including interest rate policies of the Federal Reserve, inflation, interest rates, market and monetary fluctuations. Lending activities are affected by the demand for commercial and other types of loans, which in turn is affected by the interest rates at which such financing may be offered. Our cost of funds is influenced by interest rates on competing investments and by rates offered on similar investments by competing financial institutions in our market area, as well as general market interest rates. These factors can cause fluctuations in our net interest income and other income. In addition, local economic conditions can impact the credit risk of our loan portfolio, in that (1) local employers may be required to eliminate employment positions of individual borrowers, and (2) small businesses and commercial borrowers may experience a downturn in their operating performance and become unable to make timely payments on their loans. Management evaluates these factors in estimating the allowance for credit losses (“ACL”, “allowance for credit losses”, or “allowance”) and changes in these economic factors could result in increases or decreases to the provision for loan losses.

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, economic conditions, while not as robust as the period from 2004 to 2007, had stabilized such that businesses in our market area were growing and investing again. The uncertainty expressed in the local, national and international markets through the primary economic indicators of activity were previously sufficiently stable to allow for reasonable economic growth in our markets. Subsequently, continuing supply-chain disruption and rising inflation has caused the Federal Reserve Federal Open Market Committee (“FOMC”) to increase the target federal funds rate 500 basis points between March 2022 and July 2023 before being reduced to a range of 4.75% to 5.00% in September 2024.

Although we are unable to control the external factors that influence our business, by maintaining high levels of balance sheet liquidity, managing our interest rate exposures and by actively monitoring asset quality, we seek to minimize the potentially adverse risks of unforeseen and unfavorable economic trends. Because the assets and liabilities of a bank are primarily monetary in nature (payable in fixed, determinable amounts), the performance of a bank is affected more by changes in interest rates than by inflation. Interest rates generally increase as the rate of inflation increases, but the magnitude of the change in rates may not be the same. The effect of inflation on banks is normally not as significant as its influence on those businesses that have large investments in plants and inventories. During periods of high inflation there are normally corresponding increases in the money supply, and banks will normally experience above average growth in assets, loans, and deposits. Also, general increases in the price of goods and services can be expected to result in increased operating expenses.

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Our business emphasis has been and continues to be to operate as a well-capitalized, profitable and independent community-oriented financial institution dedicated to providing quality customer service. We are committed to meeting the financial needs of the communities in which we operate. We expect growth to be achieved in our local markets and through expansion opportunities in contiguous or nearby markets. While we would be willing to consider growth by acquisition in certain circumstances, we do not consider the acquisition of another company to be necessary for our continued ability to provide a reasonable return to our shareholders. We believe that we can be more effective in serving our customers than many of our non-local competitors because of our ability to quickly and effectively provide senior management responses to customer needs and inquiries. Our ability to provide these services is enhanced by the stability and experience of our Bank officers and managers.

Summary of Critical Accounting Policies

The Company’s accounting policies are fundamental to understanding management’s discussion and analysis of results of operations and financial condition. Many of the Company’s accounting policies require significant judgment regarding valuation of assets and liabilities and/or significant interpretation of specific accounting guidance. A complete description of the Company’s significant accounting policies can be found in Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in the Company’s 2023 Annual Report to Shareholders which is Appendix A to the Proxy Statement for the 2024 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. There have been no significant changes to the application of significant accounting policies since December 31, 2023.

Results of Operations

Summary. Net earnings were $4.0 million or $0.74 per share and $0.72 per diluted share for the three months ended September 30, 2024, compared to $4.1 million or $0.76 per share and $0.74 per diluted share for the prior year period. The decrease in third quarter net earnings is primarily the result of a decrease in non-interest income and an increase in non-interest expense, which were partially offset by an increase in net interest income and a decrease in the provision for credit losses, compared to the prior year period, as discussed below.

Net earnings were $12.8 million or $2.41 per share and $2.33 per diluted share for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, compared to $12.1 million or $2.22 per share and $2.15 per diluted share for the prior year period. The increase in year-to-date net earnings is primarily attributable to an increase in non-interest income and a decrease in the provision for credit losses, which were partially offset by a decrease in net interest income and an increase in non-interest expense, compared to the prior year period, as discussed below.

The annualized return on average assets was 0.95% for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, compared to 1.02% for the same period one year ago, and annualized return on average shareholders’ equity was 13.59% for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, compared to 13.97% for the same period one year ago.

Net Interest Income. Net interest income, the major component of the Company’s net income, is the amount by which interest and fees generated by interest-earning assets exceed the total cost of funds used to carry them. Net interest income is affected by changes in the volume and mix of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, as well as changes in the yields earned and rates paid. Net interest margin is calculated by dividing tax-equivalent net interest income by average interest-earning assets, and represents the Company’s net yield on its interest-earning assets.

Net interest income was $13.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024, compared to $13.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023. The increase in net interest income is due to a $2.2 million increase in interest income, partially offset by a $2.0 million increase in interest expense. The increase in interest income is primarily due to a $2.0 million increase in interest income and fees on loans and a $206,000 increase in interest income on investment securities. The increase in interest income and fees on loans is primarily due to an increase in total loans and rate increases by the Federal Reserve through July 2023. The increase in interest income on investment securities is primarily due to increases in yields on variable rate securities and higher yields on securities purchased since September 30, 2023. The increase in interest expense is primarily due to an increase in time deposits and an increase in rates paid on interest-bearing liabilities. Net interest income after the provision for credit losses was $13.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024, compared to $12.8 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023. The provision for credit losses for the three months ended September 30, 2024 was $297,000, compared to $562,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2023. The decrease in the provision for credit losses is primarily attributable to a reduction in reserves on construction loans, which was primarily due to a decrease in construction loan balances outstanding with approximately $12.0 million in loans being paid off or transitioning to permanent financing in loan categories within the portfolio with lower loss rates than the construction pool during the three months ended September 30, 2024. This reduction of provision of $152,000 due to change in loan mix was offset by a $669,000 additional qualitative reserve established during the three months ended September 30, 2024 for expected losses associated with Hurricane Helene, which heavily impacted western North Carolina in late September 2024.

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Interest income was $20.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024, compared to $18.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023. The increase in interest income is primarily due to a $2.0 million increase in interest income and fees on loans and a $206,000 increase in interest income on investment securities. The increase in interest income and fees on loans is primarily due to an increase in total loans and rate increases by the Federal Reserve through July 2023. The increase in interest income on investment securities is primarily due to increases in yields on variable rate securities and higher yields on securities purchased since September 30, 2023. During the three months ended September 30, 2024, average loans were $1.12 billion, an increase of $56.4 million from average loans of $1.06 billion for the three months ended September 30, 2023. During the three months ended September 30, 2024, average investment securities available for sale were $440.5 million, a decrease of $7.5 million from average investment securities available for sale of $448.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023. The average yield on loans for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 was 5.72% and 5.27%, respectively. The average yield on investment securities available for sale was 3.38% and 3.15% for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The average yield on earning assets was 5.06% and 4.65% for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively.

Interest expense was $6.9 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024, compared to $5.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023. The increase in interest expense is primarily due to an increase in time deposits and an increase in rates paid on interest-bearing liabilities. During the three months ended September 30, 2024, average interest-bearing non-maturity deposits were $725.0 million, an increase of $72.3 million from average interest-bearing non-maturity deposits of $652.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023. During the three months ended September 30, 2024, average certificates of deposit were $342.8 million, an increase of $74.1 million from average certificates of deposit of $268.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023. The average rate paid on interest-bearing checking and savings accounts was 1.59% and 1.06% for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The average rate paid on certificates of deposit was 4.19% for the three months ended September 30, 2024, compared to 3.71% for the same period one year ago. The average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities was 2.51% for the three months ended September 30, 2024, compared to 1.92% for the same period one year ago.

The following table sets forth for each category of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, the average amounts outstanding, the interest incurred on such amounts and the average rate earned or incurred for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023. The table also sets forth the average rate earned on total interest-earning assets, the average rate paid on total interest-bearing liabilities, and the net yield on total average interest-earning assets for the same periods. Yield information does not give effect to changes in fair value of available for sale investment securities that are reflected as a component of shareholders’ equity. Yields and interest income on tax-exempt investments for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 have been adjusted to a tax equivalent basis using an effective tax rate of 22.98% for securities that are both federal and state tax exempt and an effective tax rate of 20.48% for federal tax-exempt securities. Non-accrual loans and the interest income that was recorded on non-accrual loans, if any, are included in the yield calculations for loans in all periods reported. The Company believes the presentation of net interest income on a tax-equivalent basis provides comparability of net interest income from both taxable and tax-exempt sources and facilitates comparability within the industry. Although the Company believes these non-GAAP financial measures enhance investors’ understanding of its business and performance, these non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered an alternative to GAAP. The reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to their most directly comparable GAAP financial measures are presented below.

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Three months ended Three months ended
--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---
September 30, 2024 September 30, 2023
(Dollars in thousands) Average Balance Interest Yield / Rate Average Balance Interest Yield / Rate
Interest-earning assets:
Loans receivable $ 1,120,545 $ 16,098 5.72 % $ 1,064,135 $ 14,145 5.27 %
Investments - taxable 304,083 3,039 3.98 % 305,405 2,767 3.59 %
Investments - nontaxable* 139,665 727 2.07 % 145,820 794 2.16 %
Due from banks 45,434 608 5.32 % 45,938 606 5.23 %
Total interest-earning assets 1,609,727 20,472 5.06 % 1,561,298 18,312 4.65 %
Non-interest earning assets:
Cash and due from banks 29,235 34,105
Allowance for credit losses (10,023 ) (9,731 )
Other assets 24,263 17,127
Total assets $ 1,653,202 $ 1,602,799
Interest-bearing liabilities:
Interest-bearing demand, MMDA & savings deposits $ 725,045 $ 2,892 1.59 % $ 652,739 $ 1,752 1.06 %
Time deposits 342,757 3,611 4.19 % 268,670 2,512 3.71 %
Junior subordinated debentures 15,464 283 7.28 % 15,464 284 7.29 %
Other 14,114 132 3.72 % 87,117 418 1.90 %
Total interest-bearing liabilities 1,097,380 6,918 2.51 % 1,023,990 4,966 1.92 %
Non-interest bearing liabilities and shareholders' equity:
Demand deposits 412,317 451,842
Other liabilities 16,040 15,440
Shareholders' equity 127,465 111,527
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $ 1,653,202 $ 1,602,799
Net interest spread $ 13,554 2.55 % $ 13,346 2.73 %
Net yield on interest-earning assets 3.35 % 3.39 %
Taxable equivalent adjustment Investment securities $ 5 $ 6
Net interest income $ 13,549 $ 13,340

*Includes U.S. Government agency securities that are non-taxable for state income tax purposes of $9.9 million in 2024 and $11.6 million in 2023.  A tax rate of 2.50% was used to calculate the tax equivalent yield on these securities.

Year to date net interest income was $40.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, compared to $41.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The decrease in net interest income is due to a $8.8 million increase in interest expense, partially offset by a $7.6 million increase in interest income. The increase in interest income reflects a $6.1 million increase in interest income and fees on loans, a $734,000 increase in interest income on balances due from banks and a $795,000 increase in interest income on investment securities. The increase in interest income and fees on loans is primarily due to an increase in total loans and rate increases by the Federal Reserve through July 2023. The increase in interest income on balances due from banks is also due to an increase in average balances outstanding and Federal Reserve rate increases. The increase in interest income on investment securities is primarily due to increases in yields on variable rate securities and higher yields on securities purchased since September 30, 2023. The increase in interest expense is primarily due to an increase in time deposits and an increase in rates paid on interest-bearing liabilities. Net interest income after the provision for credit losses was $40.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023. The provision for credit losses for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was a recovery of $80,000, compared to an expense of $1.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The decrease in the provision for credit losses is primarily attributable to a reduction in reserves on construction loans, which was primarily due to a decrease in construction loan balances outstanding with approximately $34.3 million in loans being paid off or transitioning to permanent financing in loan categories within the portfolio with lower loss rates than the construction pool during the nine months ended September 30, 2024. This reduction of provision of $948,000 due to change in loan mix was partially offset by a $669,000 additional qualitative reserve established during the nine months ended September 30, 2024 for expected losses associated with Hurricane Helene, which heavily impacted western North Carolina in late September 2024. Net charge-offs for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 were $956,000, compared to $297,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The increase in net charge-offs during the nine months ended September 30, 2024, compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2023, is primarily due to commercial and industrial loan charge-offs during the nine months ended September 30 2024, which were previously reflected in reserves on individually evaluated loans.

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Interest income was $60.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, compared to $52.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The increase in interest income reflects a $6.1 million increase in interest income and fees on loans, a $734,000 increase in interest income on balances due from banks and a $795,000 increase in interest income on investment securities. The increase in interest income and fees on loans is primarily due to an increase in total loans and rate increases by the Federal Reserve through July 2023. The increase in interest income on balances due from banks is also due to an increase in average balances outstanding and Federal Reserve rate increases. The increase in interest income on investment securities is primarily due to increases in yields on variable rate securities and higher yields on securities purchased since September 30, 2023. During the nine months ended September 30, 2024, average loans were $1.11 billion, an increase of $54.8 million from average loans of $1.05 billion for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. During the nine months ended September 30, 2024, average investment securities available for sale were $443.0 million, a decrease of $15.2 million from average investment securities available for sale of $458.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The average yield on loans for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 was 5.65% and 5.17%, respectively. The average yield on investment securities available for sale was 3.37% and 3.05% for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The average yield on earning assets was 5.01% and 4.54% for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively.

Interest expense was $20.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, compared to $11.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The increase in interest expense is primarily due to an increase in time deposits and an increase in rates paid on interest-bearing liabilities. During the nine months ended September 30, 2024, average interest-bearing non-maturity deposits were $686.2 million, a decrease of $23.8 million from average interest-bearing non-maturity deposits of $710.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. During the nine months ended September 30, 2024, average certificates of deposit were $348.2 million, an increase of $149.9 million from average certificates of deposit of $198.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The average rate paid on interest-bearing checking and savings accounts was 1.44% and 0.92% for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The average rate paid on certificates of deposit was 4.19% for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, compared to 3.15% for the same period one year ago. The average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities was 2.46% for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, compared to 1.53% for the same period one year ago.

The following table sets forth for each category of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, the average amounts outstanding, the interest incurred on such amounts and the average rate earned or incurred for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023. The table also sets forth the average rate earned on total interest-earning assets, the average rate paid on total interest-bearing liabilities, and the net yield on total average interest-earning assets for the same periods. Yield information does not give effect to changes in fair value of available for sale investment securities that are reflected as a component of shareholders’ equity. Yields and interest income on tax-exempt investments for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 have been adjusted to a tax equivalent basis using an effective tax rate of 22.98% for securities that are both federal and state tax exempt and an effective tax rate of 20.48% for federal tax-exempt securities. Non-accrual loans and the interest income that was recorded on non-accrual loans, if any, are included in the yield calculations for loans in all periods reported. The Company believes the presentation of net interest income on a tax-equivalent basis provides comparability of net interest income from both taxable and tax-exempt sources and facilitates comparability within the industry. Although the Company believes these non-GAAP financial measures enhance investors’ understanding of its business and performance, these non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered an alternative to GAAP. The reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to their most directly comparable GAAP financial measures are presented below.

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Nine months ended Nine months ended
--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---
September 30, 2024 September 30, 2023
(Dollars in thousands) Average Balance Interest Yield / Rate Average Balance Interest Yield / Rate
Interest-earning assets:
Loans receivable $ 1,107,344 46,807 5.65 % $ 1,052,540 40,695 5.17 %
Investments - taxable 310,061 9,080 3.91 % 323,247 8,227 3.40 %
Investments - nontaxable* 136,234 2,239 2.20 % 138,091 2,343 2.27 %
Due from banks 55,205 2,240 5.42 % 39,811 1,506 5.06 %
Total interest-earning assets 1,608,844 60,366 5.01 % 1,553,689 52,771 4.54 %
Non-interest earning assets:
Cash and due from banks 30,321 37,069
Allowance for credit losses (10,625 ) (9,928 )
Other assets 21,808 20,285
Total assets $ 1,650,348 $ 1,601,115
Interest-bearing liabilities:
Interest-bearing demand, MMDA & savings deposits $ 686,188 7,390 1.44 % $ 709,997 4,888 0.92 %
Time deposits 348,153 10,920 4.19 % 198,256 4,666 3.15 %
Junior subordinated debentures 15,464 850 7.34 % 15,464 791 6.84 %
Other 41,977 918 2.92 % 62,172 912 1.96 %
Total interest-bearing liabilities 1,091,782 20,078 2.46 % 985,889 11,257 1.53 %
Non-interest bearing liabilities and shareholders' equity:
Demand deposits 422,418 489,721
Other liabilities 10,396 9,626
Shareholders' equity 125,751 115,879
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $ 1,650,347 $ 1,601,115
Net interest spread $ 40,288 2.55 % $ 41,514 3.01 %
Net yield on interest-earning assets 3.34 % 3.57 %
Taxable equivalent adjustment Investment securities $ 19 $ 65
Net interest income $ 40,269 $ 41,449

*Includes U.S. Government agency securities that are non-taxable for state income tax purposes of $10.4 million in 2024 and $11.9 million in 2023. A tax rate of 2.50% was used to calculate the tax equivalent yield on these securities.

Changes in interest income and interest expense can result from variances in both volume and rates. The following table describes the impact on the Company’s tax equivalent net interest income resulting from changes in average balances and average rates for the periods indicated. The changes in net interest income due to both volume and rate changes have been allocated to volume and rate changes in proportion to the relationship of the absolute dollar amounts of the changes in each.

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Three months ended September 30, 2024 compared to three months ended September 30, 2023 Nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to nine months ended September 30, 2023
--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---
(Dollars in thousands) Changes in average volume Changes in average rates Total Increase (Decrease) Changes in average volume Changes in average rates Total Increase (Decrease)
Interest income:
Loans: Net of unearned income $ 780 1,173 1,953 2,218 3,894 6,112
Investments - taxable (13 ) 285 272 (361 ) 1,214 853
Investments - nontaxable (33 ) (34 ) (67 ) (31 ) (73 ) (104 )
Due from banks (7 ) 9 2 603 131 734
Total interest income 727 1,433 2,160 2,429 5,166 7,595
Interest expense:
Interest-bearing demand,
MMDA & savings deposits 241 899 1,140 (210 ) 2,712 2,502
Time deposits 737 362 1,099 4,115 2,139 6,254
Junior subordinated debentures - (1 ) (1 ) - 59 59
Other (517 ) 231 (286 ) (369 ) 375 6
Total interest expense 461 1,491 1,952 3,536 5,285 8,821
Net interest income $ 266 (58 ) 208 (1,107 ) (119 ) (1,226 )

Provision for Credit Losses. The provision for credit losses for the three months ended September 30, 2024 was $297,000, compared to $562,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2023. The decrease in the provision for credit losses is primarily attributable to a reduction in reserves on construction loans, which was primarily due to a decrease in construction loan balances outstanding composed mostly of approximately $12.0 million in loans being paid off or transitioning to permanent financing in loan categories within the portfolio with lower loss rates than the construction pool during the three months ended September 30, 2024. This reduction of reserves due to change in loan mix was partially offset by a $669,000 additional qualitative reserve established during the three months ended September 30, 2024 for expected losses associated with Hurricane Helene, which heavily impacted western North Carolina in late September 2024.

The provision for credit losses for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was a recovery of $80,000, compared to an expense of $1.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The decrease in the provision for credit losses is primarily attributable to a reduction in reserves on construction loans, which was primarily due to a decrease in construction loan balances outstanding with approximately $34.3 million in loans being paid off or transitioning to permanent financing in loan categories within the portfolio with lower loss rates than the construction pool during the nine months ended September 30, 2024. This reduction of reserves due to change in loan mix was partially offset by $669,000 additional qualitative reserve during the nine months ended September 30, 2024 for expected losses associated with Hurricane Helene, which heavily impacted western North Carolina in late September 2024. Net charge-offs for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 were $956,000, compared to $297,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The increase in net charge-offs during the nine months ended September 30, 2024, compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2023, is primarily due to commercial and industrial loan charge-offs during the nine months ended September 30 2024, which were previously reflected in reserves on individually evaluated loans. Additional individual reserves for commercial loans of $432,000, increased the percentage of reserves this category represented of total reserves. During the nine months ending September 30, 2024, the individual reserves amount were charged off, lowering the reserve levels needed for commercial loans at September 30, 2024. No other commercial loans have been identified for individual analysis which would require additional reserves for the commercial category.

Non-Interest Income. Non-interest income was $7.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024, compared to $6.8 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023. The increase in non-interest income is primarily attributable to a $288,000 increase in appraisal management fee income due to an increase in appraisal volume.

Non-interest income was $20.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, compared to $16.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The increase in non-interest income is primarily attributable to a $2.5 million net loss on the sales of securities during the nine months ended September 30, 2023 compared to a $5,000 net gain on the sales of securities during the nine months ended September 30, 2024, and a $1.2 million increase in appraisal management fee income due to an increase in appraisal volume.

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Non-Interest Expense. Non-interest expense was $15.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024, compared to $14.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023. The increase in non-interest expense is primarily attributable to a $458,000 increase in occupancy expense primarily due to a $362,000 write-off of leasehold improvements for the Bank’s branch in Cary, North Carolina, which was closed in June 2024, a $254,000 increase in appraisal management fee expense due to an increase in appraisal volume and a $184,000 increase in professional fees primarily due to an increase in consulting fees. Increases noted above were partially offset by a $120,000 decrease in salaries and employee benefits expense primarily due to a decrease in medical insurance expense.

Non-interest expense was $44.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, compared to $41.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The increase in non-interest expense is primarily attributable to a $901,000 increase in salaries and employee benefits expense primarily due to annual salary increases and an increase in medical insurance expenses, a $679,000 increase in occupancy expense primarily due to a $362,000 write-off of leasehold improvements for the Bank’s branch in Cary, North Carolina, which was closed in June 2024, a $362,000 increase in professional fees primarily due to an increase in consulting fees and a $982,000 increase in appraisal management fee expense due to an increase in appraisal volume.

Income Taxes. Income tax expense was $1.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024, compared to $1.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023. The effective tax rate was 25.76% for the three months ended September 30, 2024, compared to 22.09% for the three months ended September 30, 2023. The increase in the effective tax rate is primarily due to the revaluation of the deferred tax asset during the three months ended September 30, 2024 due to upcoming reductions in the North Carolina corporate income tax rate, which will be decreased to zero over a five year period starting in 2025. Income tax expense was $3.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, compared to $3.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The effective tax rate was 21.70% for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, compared to 21.89% for the nine months ended September 30, 2023.

Analysis of Financial Condition

Investment Securities. Available for sale securities were $398.6 million as of September 30, 2024, compared to $391.9 million as of December 31, 2023. Average investment securities available for sale for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 were $443.0 million, compared to $454.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2023.

Loans. Total loans were $1.12 billion as of September 30, 2024, compared to $1.09 billion at December 31, 2023. Average loans represented 69% of average earning assets for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and the year ended December 31, 2023.

The Bank had $1.2 million and $686,000 in mortgage loans held for sale as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively.

Although the Bank has a diversified loan portfolio, a substantial portion of the loan portfolio is collateralized by real estate, which is dependent upon the real estate market. Real estate mortgage loans include both commercial and residential mortgage loans. At September 30, 2024, the Bank had $120.9 million in residential mortgage loans, $109.5 million in home equity loans and $680.4 million in commercial mortgage loans, which include $532.8 million secured by commercial property and $147.6 million secured by residential property. At December 31, 2023, the Bank had $112.8 million in residential mortgage loans, $107.7 million in home equity loans and $639.9 million in commercial mortgage loans, which include $488.9 million secured by commercial property and $151.0 million secured by residential property. All residential mortgage loans are originated as fully amortizing loans, with no negative amortization

Allowance for Credit Losses (ACL). The allowance for credit losses reflects management’s assessment and estimate of the risks associated with extending credit and its evaluation of the quality of the loan portfolio. The Bank periodically analyzes the loan portfolio in an effort to review asset quality and to establish an allowance that management believes will be adequate in light of anticipated risks and loan losses. In assessing the adequacy of the allowance, size, quality and risk of loans in the portfolio are reviewed.

The allowance for credit losses on loans is a valuation account that is deducted from the loans' amortized cost basis to present the net amount expected to be collected on the loans. Loans are charged off against the allowance when management believes the uncollectibility of a loan balance is confirmed. Expected recoveries do not exceed the aggregate of amounts previously charged-off and expected to be charged-off. Accrued interest receivable is excluded from the estimate of credit losses. The allowance for credit losses represents management’s estimate of lifetime credit losses inherent in loans as of September 30, 2024. The allowance for credit losses is estimated by management using relevant available information, from both internal and external sources, relating to past events, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. The Company measures expected credit losses for loans on a pooled basis when similar risk characteristics exist. The Company calculates the allowance for credit losses using a Weighted Average Remaining Maturity (“WARM”) methodology.

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The allowance for credit losses on loans was $10.6 million at September 30, 2024 as compared to $11.0 million at December 31, 2023. The decrease in the allowance for credit losses on loans is primarily due to a $471,000 decrease in allowance for other construction loans, all land development, and other land loans as a result of loan balance decreases in this category during the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and a $360,000 decrease in allowance for commercial and industrial loans primarily due to a $432,000 decrease in reserves on individually evaluated loans in this category at September 30, 2024 as compared to December 31, 2023 due to charge offs during the first quarter of 2024. No other commercial loans have been identified for individual analysis which would require additional reserves for the commercial loans category. These decreases were partially offset by a $669,000 additional qualitative reserve for expected losses associated with established Hurricane Helene during the three months ended September 30, 2024.

Additionally, the allowance for credit losses calculation includes subjective adjustments for qualitative risk factors that are likely to cause estimated credit losses to differ from historical experience. These qualitative adjustments may increase or reduce reserve levels and include adjustments for: local, state and national economic outlook; levels and trends of delinquencies; trends in volume, mix and size of loans; seasoning of the loan portfolio; experience of staff; concentrations of credit; and interest rate risk.

The portion of the ACL balance attributable to qualitative factors was $5.2 million at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023. The risk factors are weighted as follows: Local, State and National Economic Outlook – 30%, Concentrations of Credit – 5%, Interest Rate Risk – 5%, Trends in Terms of Volume, Mix and Size of Loans – 15%, Seasoning of the Loan Portfolio – 10%, Experience of Staff – 10%, and Levels and Trends of Delinquencies – 25%. No changes to the risk status of any of the risk factors was made during the third quarter of 2024.

Loans that do not share risk characteristics are evaluated on an individual basis. When management determines that foreclosure is probable and the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty, the expected credit losses are based on the fair value of collateral at the reporting date adjusted for selling costs as appropriate. There were no loans individually evaluated as of September 30, 2024, and two loans totaling $432,000 were individually evaluated as of December 31, 2023, which were fully reserved for at December 31, 2023.

Financial instruments include off-balance sheet credit instruments, such as commitments to make loans and commercial letters of credit issued to meet customer financing needs. The Company’s exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the other party to the financial instrument for off-balance sheet loan commitments represents the contractual amount of those instruments. Such financial instruments are recorded when they are funded.

The Company records an allowance for credit losses on off-balance sheet credit exposures, unless the commitments to extend credit are unconditionally cancelable. The allowance for credit losses on off-balance sheet credit exposures is estimated by loan segment at each balance sheet date under the current expected credit loss model using the same methodologies as portfolio loans, taking into consideration the likelihood that funding will occur as well as any third-party guarantees. The allowance for unfunded commitments is included in other liabilities on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets.

The allowance for credit losses on off-balance sheet credit exposures was $1.2 million and $1.8 million at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. The decrease in the allowance for credit losses on unfunded commitments was primarily due to a $506,000 decrease in the allowance balance for other construction loans and all land development and other land loans resulting from a $16.3 million decrease in unfunded commitments in this category during the nine months ended September 30, 2024.

Management uses several measures to assess and monitor the credit risks in the loan portfolio, including a loan grading system that begins upon loan origination and continues until the loan is collected or collectability becomes doubtful. Upon loan origination, the Bank’s originating loan officer evaluates the quality of the loan and assigns one of eight risk grades. The loan officer monitors the loan’s performance and credit quality and makes changes to the credit grade as conditions warrant. When originated or renewed, all loans over a certain dollar amount receive in-depth reviews and risk assessments by the Bank’s Credit Administration. Before making any changes in these risk grades, management considers assessments as determined by the third-party credit review firm (as described below), regulatory examiners and the Bank’s Credit Administration. Any issues regarding the risk assessments are addressed by the Bank’s senior credit administrators and factored into management’s decision to originate or renew the loan. The board of directors of the Bank (“the Bank Board”) reviews, on a monthly basis, an analysis of the Bank’s reserves relative to the range of reserves estimated by the Bank’s Credit Administration.

As an additional measure, the Bank engages an independent third party to review the underwriting, documentation and risk grading analyses. This independent third party reviews and evaluates loan relationships greater than or equal to $1.5 million as well as a periodic sample of commercial relationships with exposures below $1.5 million, excluding loans in default, and loans in process of litigation or liquidation. The third party’s evaluation and report is shared with management and the Bank Board.

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Management considers certain commercial loans with weak credit risk grades to be individually impaired and measures such impairment based upon available cash flows and the value of the collateral. Allowance or reserve levels are estimated for all other graded loans in the portfolio based on their assigned credit risk grade, type of loan and other matters related to credit risk.

Management uses the information developed from the procedures described above in evaluating and grading the loan portfolio. This continual grading process is used to monitor the credit quality of the loan portfolio and to assist management in estimating the allowance. The provision for credit losses charged or credited to earnings is based upon management’s judgment of the amount necessary to maintain the allowance at a level appropriate to absorb probable incurred losses in the loan portfolio at the balance sheet date. The amount each quarter is dependent upon many factors, including growth and changes in the composition of the loan portfolio, net charge-offs, delinquencies, management’s assessment of loan portfolio quality, the value of collateral, and other macro-economic factors and trends. The evaluation of these factors is performed quarterly by management through an analysis of the appropriateness of the allowance.

Since the adoption of CECL on January 1, 2023, the allowance for credit losses represents management’s estimate of credit losses for the remaining estimated life of the Bank’s financial assets, including loan receivables and some off-balance sheet credit exposures. Estimating the amount of the allowance for credit losses requires significant judgment and the use of estimates related to historical experience, current conditions, reasonable and supportable forecasts, and the value of collateral on collateral-dependent loans. The loan portfolio also represents the largest asset type on our consolidated balance sheet. Credit losses are charged against the allowance, while recoveries of amounts previously charged off are credited to the allowance. A provision for credit losses is charged to operations based on management’s periodic evaluation of the factors previously mentioned, as well as other pertinent factors.

There are many factors affecting the allowance for credit losses; some are quantitative while others require qualitative judgment. Although management believes its process for determining the allowance adequately considers all the potential factors that could potentially result in credit losses, the process includes subjective elements and is susceptible to significant change. To the extent actual outcomes differ from management estimates, additional provision for credit losses could be required that could adversely affect our earnings or financial position in future periods.

Various regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination process, periodically review the Bank’s allowance. Such agencies may require adjustments to the allowance based on their judgments of information available to them at the time of their examinations. Management believes it has established the allowance for credit losses pursuant to CECL, and has taken into account the views of its regulators and the current economic environment. Management considers the allowance adequate to cover the estimated losses inherent in the Bank’s loan portfolio as of the date of the financial statements. Although management uses the best information available to make evaluations, significant future additions to the allowance may be necessary based on changes in economic and other conditions, thus adversely affecting the operating results of the Company.

Non-performing Assets. Non-performing assets were $3.9 million or 0.24% of total assets at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023. Non-accrual loans were $3.9 million at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023. As a percentage of total loans outstanding, non-accrual loans were 0.35% at September 30, 2024, compared to 0.36% at December 31, 2023. Non-accrual loans over $250,000 are individually evaluated for specific reserves. Non-performing assets include $3.7 million in residential mortgage loans and $266,000 in other loans at September 30, 2024, compared to $3.4 million in residential mortgage loans and $464,000 in other loans at December 31, 2023. The Bank had no loans 90 days past due and still accruing at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023. The Bank had no other real estate owned at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023.

Deposits. Deposits were $1.48 billion as of September 30, 2024, compared to $1.39 billion as of December 31, 2023. Core deposits, a non-GAAP measure, which include noninterest-bearing demand deposits, NOW, MMDA, savings and non-brokered certificates of deposit of denominations of $250,000 or less, were $1.34 billion at September 30, 2024, compared to $1.24 billion at December 31, 2023. Management believes it is useful to calculate and present core deposits because of the positive impact this low cost funding source provides to the Bank’s overall cost of funds and profitability. Certificates of deposit in amounts of more than $250,000 totaled $143.6 million at September 30, 2024, compared to $148.9 million December 31, 2023.

Estimated uninsured deposits totaled $398.3 million, or 26.91% of total deposits, at September 30, 2024, compared to $382.1 million, or 27.45% of total deposits, at December 31, 2023. Uninsured amounts are estimated based on the portion of account balances in excess of FDIC insurance limits. The Bank did not have any significant deposit concentrations at September 30, 2024.

Borrowed Funds. There were no FHLB borrowings outstanding at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023. Repurchase agreements were $8.4 million at September 30, 2023, compared to $86.7 million at December 31, 2023. The decrease in repurchase agreements is primarily due to customers transferring funds from repurchase agreements to deposits via the IntraFi network’s Insured Cash Sweep (“ICS”) during the nine months ended September 30, 2024

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Junior Subordinated Debentures (related to Trust Preferred Securities). Junior subordinated debentures were $15.5 million at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023.

Asset Liability and Interest Rate Risk Management. The objective of the Company’s Asset Liability and Interest Rate Risk strategies is to identify and manage the sensitivity of net interest income to changing interest rates and to minimize the interest rate risk between interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities at various maturities. This is done in conjunction with the need to maintain adequate liquidity and the overall goal of maximizing net interest income.

The Company manages its exposure to fluctuations in interest rates through policies established by the Asset/Liability Committee (“ALCO”) of the Bank. The ALCO meets quarterly and has the responsibility for approving asset/liability management policies, formulating and implementing strategies to improve balance sheet positioning and/or earnings and reviewing the interest rate sensitivity of the Company. ALCO seeks to minimize interest rate risk between interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities by attempting to minimize wide fluctuations in net interest income due to interest rate movements. The ability to control these fluctuations has a direct impact on the profitability of the Company. Management monitors this activity on a regular basis through analysis of its portfolios to determine the difference between rate sensitive assets and rate sensitive liabilities.

The Company’s rate sensitive assets are those earning interest at variable rates and those with contractual maturities within one year. Rate sensitive assets therefore include both loans and available for sale securities. Rate sensitive liabilities include interest-bearing checking accounts, money market deposit accounts, savings accounts, time deposits and borrowed funds. Average rate sensitive assets for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 totaled $1.61 billion, exceeding average rate sensitive liabilities of $1.09 billion by $517.1 million.

The Company has an overall interest rate risk management strategy that may incorporate the use of derivative instruments to minimize significant unplanned fluctuations in earnings that are caused by interest rate volatility. By using derivative instruments, the Company is exposed to credit and market risk. If the counterparty fails to perform, credit risk is equal to the extent of the fair-value gain in the derivative. The Company minimizes the credit risk in derivative instruments by entering into transactions with high-quality counterparties that are reviewed periodically by the Company. The Company did not have any interest rate derivatives outstanding as of September 30, 2024.

Included in the rate sensitive assets are $185.6 million in variable rate loans indexed to prime rate subject to immediate repricing upon changes by the FOMC. Certain variable rate loans are structured to establish floors on interest rates charged to protect against downward movements in the prime rate. At September 30, 2024, the Company had $125.0 million in loans with interest rate floors. No floors were in effect on loans with floors on interest rates charged at September 30, 2024.

Liquidity. The objectives of the Company’s liquidity policy are to provide for the availability of adequate funds to meet the needs of loan demand, deposit withdrawals, maturing liabilities and to satisfy regulatory requirements. Both deposit and loan customer cash needs can fluctuate significantly depending upon business cycles, economic conditions and yields and returns available from alternative investment opportunities. In addition, the Company’s liquidity is affected by off-balance sheet commitments to lend in the form of unfunded commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit. As of September 30, 2024, such unfunded commitments to extend credit were $355.4 million, while commitments in the form of standby letters of credit totaled $3.8 million. As of December 31, 2023, such unfunded commitments to extend credit were $367.5 million, while commitments in the form of standby letters of credit totaled $3.7 million.

The Bank uses several sources to meet its liquidity requirements. The primary source is core deposits, which includes demand deposits, savings accounts and non-brokered certificates of deposit of denominations less than $250,000. The Bank considers these to be a stable portion of the Bank’s liability mix and the result of on-going consumer and commercial banking relationships. As of September 30, 2024, the Bank’s core deposits, a non-GAAP measure, totaled $1.34 billion, or 90% of total deposits. As of December 31, 2023, the Bank’s core deposits totaled $1.24 billion, or 89% of total deposits.

The other sources of funding for the Bank are through large denomination certificates of deposit, including brokered deposits, federal funds purchased, securities under agreements to repurchase and FHLB borrowings. The Bank is also able to borrow from the Federal Reserve Bank (“FRB”) on a short-term basis. The Bank’s policies include the ability to access wholesale funding of up to 40% of total assets. The Bank’s wholesale funding includes FHLB borrowings, FRB borrowings, brokered deposits, internet certificates of deposit and certificates of deposit issued to the State of North Carolina. The Bank had no wholesale funding at September 30, 2024, compared to $8.1 million at December 31, 2023. The Bank’s ratio of wholesale funding to total assets was zero and 0.50% as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively.

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The Bank has a line of credit with the FHLB equal to 20% of the Bank’s total assets. There were no FHLB borrowings outstanding at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023. At September 30, 2024, the carrying value of loans pledged as collateral to the FHLB totaled $218.6 million compared to $214.1 million at December 31, 2023. The remaining availability under the line of credit with the FHLB was $125.2 million at September 30, 2024 compared to $122.2 million at December 31, 2023. The Bank had no borrowings from the FRB at September 30, 2024 or December 31, 2023. FRB borrowings are collateralized by a blanket assignment on all qualifying loans that the Bank owns which are not pledged to the FHLB. At September 30, 2024, the carrying value of loans pledged as collateral to the FRB totaled $633.5 million compared to $611.2 million at December 31, 2023. Availability under the line of credit with the FRB was $508.6 million at September 30, 2024 compared to $445.1 million at December 31, 2023.

The Bank also had the ability to borrow up to $110.5 million for the purchase of overnight federal funds from five correspondent financial institutions as of September 30, 2024.

The liquidity ratio for the Bank, which is defined as net cash, interest-bearing deposits, federal funds sold and certain investment securities, as a percentage of net deposits and short-term liabilities was 29.26% at September 30, 2024 and 25.39% at December 31, 2023. The minimum required liquidity ratio as defined in the Bank’s Asset/Liability and Interest Rate Risk Management Policy was 10% at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023.

Contractual Obligations and Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements. The Company’s contractual obligations include junior subordinated debentures, as well as certain payments under current lease agreements. Other commitments include commitments to extend credit.

Capital Resources. Shareholders’ equity was $136.3 million, or 8.20% of total assets, at September 30, 2024, compared to $121.0 million, or 7.40% of total assets, at December 31, 2023.

Annualized return on average equity for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was 13.59%, compared to 13.97% for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. Total cash dividends paid on common stock were $4.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, compared to $4.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023.

In the first quarter of 2023, the Board of Directors authorized a stock repurchase program, whereby up to $2.0 million was allocated to repurchase the Company’s common stock. In the fourth quarter of 2023, the Board of Directors authorized an additional $2.0 million to be allocated to repurchase the Company’s common stock, which increased the total amount authorized in 2023 to $4.0 million. The Company repurchased approximately $4.0 million, or 181,022 shares of its common stock, under this stock repurchase program through March 31, 2024, when the program expired.

In June of 2024, the Board of Directors authorized a stock repurchase program, whereby up to $2.0 million may be allocated to repurchase the Company’s common stock. Any purchases under the Company’s stock repurchase program may be made periodically as permitted by securities laws and other legal requirements in the open market or in privately-negotiated transactions. The timing and amount of any repurchase of shares will be determined by the Company’s management, based on its evaluation of market conditions and other factors. The stock repurchase program may be suspended at any time or from time-to-time without prior notice. The Company had not repurchased any shares of its common stock under this stock repurchase program as of September 30, 2024.

In 2013, the FRB approved its final rule on the Basel III capital standards, which implement changes to the regulatory capital framework for banking organizations. The Basel III capital standards, which became effective January 1, 2015, include new risk-based capital and leverage ratios, which were phased in from 2015 to 2019. The new minimum capital level requirements applicable to the Company and the Bank under the final rules are as follows: (i) a new common equity Tier 1 capital ratio of 4.5%; (ii) a Tier 1 capital ratio of 6% (increased from 4%); (iii) a total risk based capital ratio of 8% (unchanged from previous rules); and (iv) a Tier 1 leverage ratio of 4% (unchanged from previous rules). An additional capital conservation buffer was added to the minimum requirements for capital adequacy purposes beginning on January 1, 2016 and was phased in through 2019 (increasing by 0.625% on January 1, 2016 and each subsequent January 1, until it reached 2.5% on January 1, 2019). This resulted in the following minimum ratios beginning in 2019: (i) a common equity Tier 1 capital ratio of 7.0%, (ii) a Tier 1 capital ratio of 8.5%, and (iii) a total capital ratio of 10.5%. Under the final rules, institutions would be subject to limitations on paying dividends, engaging in share repurchases, and paying discretionary bonuses if its capital level falls below the buffer amount. These limitations establish a maximum percentage of eligible retained earnings that could be utilized for such actions.

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Under the regulatory capital guidelines, financial institutions are currently required to maintain a total risk-based capital ratio of 8.0% or greater, with a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 6.0% or greater and a common equity Tier 1 capital ratio of 4.5% or greater, as required by the Basel III capital standards referenced above. Tier 1 capital is generally defined as shareholders’ equity and trust preferred securities less all intangible assets and goodwill. Tier 1 capital includes $15.0 million in trust preferred securities at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023. The Company’s Tier 1 capital ratio was 14.35% and 13.94% at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. Total risk-based capital is defined as Tier 1 capital plus supplementary capital. Supplementary capital, or Tier 2 capital, consists of the Company’s allowance for credit losses, not exceeding 1.25% of the Company’s risk-weighted assets. Total risk-based capital ratio is therefore defined as the ratio of total capital (Tier 1 capital and Tier 2 capital) to risk-weighted assets. The Company’s total risk-based capital ratio was 15.28% and 14.96% at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. The Company’s common equity Tier 1 capital consists of common stock and retained earnings. The Company’s common equity Tier 1 capital ratio was 13.17% and 12.75% at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. Financial institutions are also required to maintain a leverage ratio of Tier 1 capital to total average assets of 4.0% or greater. The Company’s Tier 1 leverage capital ratio was 10.78% and 10.51% at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively.

The Bank’s Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio was 14.23% and 13.83% at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. The total risk-based capital ratio for the Bank was 15.16% and 14.85% at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. The Bank’s common equity Tier 1 capital ratio was 14.23% and 13.83% at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. The Bank’s Tier 1 leverage capital ratio was 10.61% and 10.35% at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively.

A bank is considered to be “well capitalized” if it has a total risk-based capital ratio of 10.0% or greater, a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 8.0% or greater, a common equity Tier 1 capital ratio of 6.5% or greater and a leverage ratio of 5.0% or greater. Based upon these guidelines, the Bank was considered to be “well capitalized” at September 30, 2024.

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

Not applicable

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

As of the end of the period covered by this report, we carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures, which are our controls and other procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our periodic reports with the SEC is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the required time periods. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed is communicated to our management to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Based on the evaluation, our chief executive officer and chief financial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective in allowing timely decisions regarding disclosure to be made about material information required to be included in our periodic reports with the SEC. In addition, no change in our internal control over financial reporting has occurred during, or subsequent to, the period covered by this report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

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PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

In the opinion of management, the Company is not involved in any material pending legal proceedings other than routine proceedings occurring in the ordinary course of business.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

For information regarding the risk factors that could affect the Company’s business, results of operations, financial condition and liquidity, see the information under Part I, Item 1A. “Risk Factors” in the Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 7, 2024, which is accessible on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. The following risk factor represent an update and addition to the risk factors previously disclosed in the Company’s Form 10-K, filed with the SEC on March 7, 2024.

Damage resulting from Hurricane Helene and similar future events could have a negative impact on the Company's business, financial condition and results of operations.

Many communities in western North Carolina suffered significant damage resulting from Hurricane Helene. At this time, it is unclear to what extent our customers have been affected by uninsured business interruption, property destruction and other related losses, and how those events may affect each customer's ability to meet its debt service obligations. Similar future events could potentially cause widespread property damage, require the relocation of an unprecedented number of residents and business operations, and severely disrupt normal economic activity in our market areas, which may have an adverse effect on our operations, loan originations and deposit base. The occurrence of any such event could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. While we have increased the allowance for credit losses by $669,000 as an estimate of expected losses associated with Hurricane Helene, additional reserve could be needed as we continue to assess the impact of Hurricane Helene on our customers.

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

ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

Period Total Number of Shares Purchased (1) Average Price Paid per Share Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs (2) Maximum Number (or Approximate Dollar Value) of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs (3)
July 1 - 31, 2024 1,417 $ 31.96 - $ 2,000,000
August 1 - 31, 2024 - $ - - $ 2,000,000
September 1 - 30, 2024 140 $ 28.78 - $ 2,000,000
Total 1,557 $ 31.67 -
(1) The Company purchased 1,557 shares on the open market in the three months ended September 30, 2024 for its deferred compensation plan. All purchases were funded by participant contributions to the plan.
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(2) Reflects shares purchased under the Company's publicly announced stock repurchase program.
(3) Reflects dollar value of balance available for repurchase at end of period under the Company's stock repurchase program, which was authorized in June 2024.

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Not applicable

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

Not applicable

Item 5. Other Information

Trading Arrangements of Section 16 Reporting Persons.

During the quarter ended September 30, 2024, no person who is required to file reports pursuant to Section 16(a) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, with respect to holdings of, and transactions in, the Company’s common shares (i.e. directors and certain officers of the Company) maintained, adopted, modified or terminated a “Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement” or “non-Rule 10b5-1(c) arrangement”, as those terms are defined in Section 229.408 of the regulations of the SEC.

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Item 6. Exhibits

Exhibit (3)(i)(a) Articles of Incorporation of the Registrant, incorporated by reference to Exhibit (3)(i) to the Form 8-A filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 2, 1999
Exhibit (3)(i)(b) Articles of Amendment dated December 19, 2008, regarding the Series A Preferred Stock, incorporated by reference to Exhibit (3)(1) to the Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on December 29, 2008
Exhibit (3)(i)(c) Articles of Amendment dated February 26, 2010, incorporated by reference to Exhibit (3)(2) to the Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 25, 2010
Exhibit (3)(i)(d) Articles of Amendment dated May 6, 2021, incorporated by reference to Exhibit (3)(i)(d) to the Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 18, 2022
Exhibit (3)(ii) Second Amended and Restated Bylaws of the Registrant, incorporated by reference to Exhibit (3)(ii) to the Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 24, 2015
Exhibit (4)(i) Specimen Stock Certificate, incorporated by reference to Exhibit (4) to the Form 8-A filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 2, 1999
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Exhibit (10)(i) Amended and Restated Employment Agreement by and among Peoples Bancorp of North Carolina, Inc., Peoples Bank and William D. Cable, Sr., dated as of September 19, 2024 incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 20, 2024
Exhibit (10)(ii) Second Amendment To Amended and Restated Executive Salary Continuation Agreement by and between Peoples Bank and William D. Cable, Sr., dated as of September 19, 2024 incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 20, 2024
Exhibit (10)(iii) First Amendment To Executive Salary Continuation Agreement by and between Peoples Bank and Jeffrey N. Hooper, dated as of September 19, 2024 incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 20, 2024
Exhibit (31)(a) Certification of principal executive officer pursuant to section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Exhibit (31)(b) Certification of principal financial officer pursuant to section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Exhibit (32) Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Exhibit (101) The following materials from the Company’s 10-Q Report for the quarterly period ended September 30, 2024, formatted in eXtensible Business Reporting Language (“XBRL”): (i) the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, (ii) the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings, (iii) the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (iv) the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity, (v) the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, and (vi) the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
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SIGNATURES

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

Peoples Bancorp of North Carolina, Inc.
November 5, 2024 /s/ William D. Cable, Sr.
Date William D. Cable, Sr.<br><br>President and Chief Executive Officer<br><br>(Principal Executive Officer)
November 5, 2024 /s/ Jeffrey N. Hooper
--- ---
Date Jeffrey N. Hooper<br><br>Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer<br><br>(Principal Financial and Principal Accounting Officer)
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pebk_ex31a.htm EXHIBIT (31)(a)

CERTIFICATIONS

I, William D. Cable, Sr., certify that:

1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Peoples Bancorp of North Carolina Inc.;
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this quarterly report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
a) designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
b) designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, 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;
c) evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
d) disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
a) all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
b) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.
November 5, 2024 /s/ William D. Cable, Sr.

| Date | William D. Cable, Sr.<br> <br>President and Chief Executive Officer<br> <br>(Principal Executive Officer) |

pebk_ex31b.htm EXHIBIT (31)(b)

CERTIFICATIONS

I, Jeffrey N. Hooper, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Peoples Bancorp of North Carolina Inc.;
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this quarterly report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
a) designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
b) designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, 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;
c) evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
d) disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
a) all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
b) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.
November 5, 2024 /s/ Jeffrey N. Hooper

| Date | Jeffrey N. Hooper<br> <br>Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer<br> <br>(Principal Financial and Principal Accounting Officer) |

pebk_ex32.htm EXHIBIT (32)

PEOPLES BANCORP OF NORTH CAROLINA, INC.

Certification of Periodic Financial Report

Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350

Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, each of the undersigned officers of Peoples Bancorp of North Carolina, Inc. (the “Company”) certifies that the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of the Company for the quarter ended September 30, 2024 fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d), as applicable, of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and information contained in that Form 10-Q fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

November 5, 2024 /s/ William D. Cable, Sr.

| Date | William D. Cable, Sr.<br> <br>Chief Executive Officer |

November 5, 2024 /s/ Jeffrey N. Hooper

| Date | Jeffrey N. Hooper<br> <br>Chief Financial Officer |

*This certification is made solely for purpose of 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, subject to the knowledge standard contained therein, and not for any other purpose.

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