SEC Form 10-Q filed by Peoples Bancorp of North Carolina Inc.

5/2/24 2:40:44 PM ET

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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: March 31, 2024

☐ 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 incorporation or organization)		(IRS Employer 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. 5,291,029 shares of common stock, outstanding at April 30, 2024.

INDEX

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

		PAGE(S)
Item 1.	Financial Statements

	Consolidated Balance Sheets at March 31, 2024 (Unaudited) and December 31, 2023 (Audited)	4

	Consolidated Statements of Earnings for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 (Unaudited)	5

	Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the three and months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 (Unaudited)	6

	Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 (Unaudited)	7

	Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 (Unaudited)	8-9

	Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)	10-28

Item 2.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	29-38

Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk	39

Item 4.	Controls and Procedures	39

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.	Legal Proceedings	39
Item 1A.	Risk Factors	39
Item 2.	Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds	40
Item 3.	Defaults upon Senior Securities	40
Item 5.	Other Information	40
Item 6.	Exhibits	41
Signatures		42
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

March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023

(Dollars in thousands)

	March 31,			December 31,
Assets	2024			2023
	(Unaudited)			(Audited)

Cash and due from banks	$	26,272			32,819
Interest-bearing deposits		71,824			49,556
Cash and cash equivalents		98,096			82,375

Investment securities available for sale		394,664			391,924
Other investments		2,858			2,874
Total securities		397,522			394,798

Mortgage loans held for sale		1,292			686

Loans		1,106,670			1,093,066
Less allowance for credit losses		(10,847	)		(11,041	)
Net loans		1,095,823			1,082,025

Premises and equipment, net		16,330			16,702
Cash surrender value of life insurance		18,250			18,134
Right of use lease asset		4,553			4,731
Accrued interest receivable and other assets		37,694			36,459
Total assets	$	1,669,560			1,635,910

Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity

Deposits:
Noninterest-bearing demand	$	462,966			432,687
Interest-bearing demand, MMDA & savings		633,740			620,244
Time, over $250,000		148,819			148,904
Other time		206,839			190,210
Total deposits		1,452,364			1,392,045

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase		59,216			86,715
Junior subordinated debentures		15,464			15,464
Lease liability		4,660			4,832
Accrued interest payable and other liabilities		16,764			15,838
Total liabilities		1,548,468			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 5,455,999 shares at March 31, 2024 and 5,534,499 shares at December 31, 2023		48,627			50,625
Common stock held by deferred compensation trust, at cost; 164,970 shares at March 31, 2024 and 158,356 shares at December 31, 2023		(1,943	)		(1,910	)
Deferred compensation		1,943			1,910
Retained earnings		111,775			109,756
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		(39,310	)		(39,365	)
Total shareholders' equity		121,092			121,016
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$	1,669,560			1,635,910

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

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PEOPLES BANCORP OF NORTH CAROLINA, INC.

Consolidated Statements of Earnings

Three Months Ended March 31, 2024 and 2023

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)


	2024		2023
	(Unaudited)		(Unaudited)

Interest income:
Interest and fees on loans	$	15,138		12,883
Interest on due from banks		907		383
Interest on investment securities:
U.S. Government sponsored enterprises		2,591		2,230
State and political subdivisions		695		862
Other		479		443
Total interest income		19,810		16,801

Interest expense:
Interest-bearing demand, MMDA & savings deposits		2,060		1,488
Time deposits		3,681		516
Junior subordinated debentures		284		248
Other		481		211
Total interest expense		6,506		2,463

Net interest income		13,304		14,338

Provision for credit losses		91		224

Net interest income after provision for credit losses		13,213		14,114

Non-interest income:
Service charges		1,340		1,341
Other service charges and fees		184		182
Loss on sale of securities, net		-		(2,488	)
Mortgage banking income		51		93
Insurance and brokerage commissions		246		228
Appraisal management fee income		2,414		2,094
Miscellaneous		1,803		2,161
Total non-interest income		6,038		3,611

Non-interest expense:
Salaries and employee benefits		6,980		6,500
Occupancy		2,111		2,014
Professional fees		392		399
Advertising		199		189
Debit card expense		312		273
FDIC insurance		191		110
Appraisal management fee expense		1,904		1,650
Other		2,427		2,567
Total non-interest expense		14,516		13,702

Earnings before income taxes		4,735		4,023

Income tax expense		787		851

Net earnings	$	3,948		3,172

Basic net earnings per share	$	0.74		0.58
Diluted net earnings per share	$	0.72		0.56
Cash dividends declared per share	$	0.35		0.34

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

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PEOPLES BANCORP OF NORTH CAROLINA, INC.

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

Three Months Ended March 31, 2024 and 2023

(Dollars in thousands)

	2024			2023
	(Unaudited)			(Unaudited)

Net earnings	$	3,948			3,172

Other comprehensive income :
Unrealized holding gains on securities
available for sale		71			9,421
Reclassification adjustment for losses on
securities available for sale
included in net earnings		-			2,488

Total other comprehensive income ,
before income taxes		71			11,909

Income tax benefit related to other
comprehensive income :

Unrealized holding gains on securities
available for sale		(16	)		(2,164	)
Reclassification adjustment for losses on sales
of securities available for sale
included in net earnings		-			(572	)

Total income tax expense related to
other comprehensive income		(16	)		(2,736	)

Total other comprehensive income,
net of tax		55			9,173

Total comprehensive income	$	4,003			12,345

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 Months Ended March 31, 2024 and 2023

(Dollars in thousands)

													Common Stock
													Held By			Accumulated
													Deferred			Other
	Common Stock						Retained			Deferred			Compensation			Comprehensive
	Shares			Amount			Earnings			Compensation			Trust			Income (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 (loss), net of tax		-			-			-			-			-			55			55
Balance, March 31, 2024		5,455,999		$	48,627			111,775			1,943			(1,943	)		(39,310	)		121,092

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 exercised		191			6			-			-			-			-			6
Equity incentive plan, net		-			-			-			(344	)		344			-			-
Net earnings		-			-			3,172			-			-			-			3,172
Change in accumulated other
comprehensive income (loss), net of tax		-			-			-			-			-			9,173			9,173
Balance, March 31, 2023		5,637,021		$	52,642			100,565			1,837			(1,837	)		(38,424	)		114,783

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

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PEOPLES BANCORP OF NORTH CAROLINA, INC.

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

Three Months Ended March 31, 2024 and 2023

(Dollars in thousands)

	2024			2023
	(Unaudited)			(Unaudited)

Cash flows from operating activities:
Net earnings	$	3,948			3,172
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to
net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation, amortization and accretion		671			903
Provision for credit losses		91			224
Deferred income taxes		(208	)		(229	)
Loss on sale of investment securities net		-			2,488
Restricted stock expense		6			(49	)
Proceeds from sales of mortgage loans held for sale		3,097			4,621
Origination of mortgage loans held for sale		(3,703	)		(4,827	)
Cash surrender value of life insurance		(116	)		(103	)
Change in:
Right of use lease asset		178			167
Other assets		(1,043	)		(380	)
Lease liability		(172	)		(152	)
Other liabilities		920			2,207

Net cash provided by operating activities		3,669			8,042

Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of investment securities available for sale		(9,710	)		-
Proceeds from sales, calls and maturities of investment securities
available for sale		3,000			52,023
Proceeds from paydowns of investment securities available for sale		3,859			3,305
Proceeds from paydowns of other investment securities		37			37
Redemption (purchase) of FHLB stock		(10	)		2
Net change in loans		(13,889	)		(19,566	)
Purchases of premises and equipment		(128	)		(566	)

Net cash provided (used) by investing activities		(16,841	)		35,235

Cash flows from financing activities:
Net change in deposits		60,319			(21,774	)
Net change in securities sold under agreement to repurchase		(27,499	)		(8,153	)
Proceeds from Fed Funds purchased		-			43,275
Repayments of Fed Funds purchased		-			(43,275	)
Common stock repurchased		(1,998	)		-
Cash dividends paid on common stock		(1,929	)		(1,925	)

Net cash provided (used) by financing activities		28,893			(31,852	)

Net change in cash and cash equivalents		15,721			11,425

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period		82,375			71,596

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$	98,096			83,021

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PEOPLES BANCORP OF NORTH CAROLINA, INC.

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, continued

Three Months Ended March 31, 2024 and 2023

(Dollars in thousands)

	2024		2023
	(Unaudited)		(Unaudited)

Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
Cash paid during the period for:
Interest	$	7,991		2,275
Income taxes	$	236		-

Noncash investing and financing activities:
Change in unrealized loss on investment securities
available for sale, net	$	55		9,173
Restricted stock units exercised	$	-		6
Allowance for credit losses record 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.

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Recent Accounting Pronouncements

The following table provides a summary of Accounting Standards Updates (“ASU’s”) issued by the FASB that the Company has not adopted as of March 31, 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	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 2024-01 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.

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 months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023:

	For the three months ended
(dollars in thousands)	March 31, 2024			March 31, 2023

Beginning balance	$	(39,365	)	$	(47,597	)
Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications, net		55			9,173
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, net		-			-
Net current period other comprehensive loss		55			9,173
Ending balance	$	(39,310	)	$	(38,424	)

(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.

The reconciliation of the amounts used in the computation of both “basic earnings per share” and “diluted earnings per share” for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 is as follows:

For the three months ended March 31, 2024
	Net Earnings (Dollars in thousands)		Weighted Average Number of Shares		Per Share Amount
Basic earnings per share	$	3,948		5,318,671	$	0.74
Effect of dilutive securities:
Restricted stock units - unvested				18,143
Shares held in deferred comp plan
by deferred compensation trust				164,336
Diluted earnings per share	$	3,948		5,501,150	$	0.72

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For the three months ended March 31, 2023
	Net Earnings (Dollars in thousands)		Weighted Average Number of Shares		Per Share Amount
Basic earnings per share	$	3,172		5,475,603	$	0.58
Effect of dilutive securities:
Restricted stock units - unvested				16,967
Shares held in deferred comp plan
by deferred compensation trust				163,680
Diluted earnings per share	$	3,172		5,656,250	$	0.56

(4) Investment Securities

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

(Dollars in thousands)
	March 31, 2024
	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair Value
U.S. Treasuries	$	7,977		-		891		7,086
U.S. Government sponsored enterprises		10,669		-		625		10,044
GSE - Mortgage-backed securities		259,899		204		22,987		237,116
Private label mortgage-backed securities		37,294		6		1,948		35,352
State and political subdivisions		129,859		-		24,793		105,066
Total	$	445,698		210		51,244		394,664

(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31, 2023
	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair 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 March 31, 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.

(Dollars in thousands)
	March 31, 2024
	Less than 12 Months				12 Months or More				Total
	Fair Value		Unrealized Losses		Fair Value		Unrealized Losses		Fair Value		Unrealized Losses
U.S. Treasuries	$	-		-		7,086		891		7,086		891
U.S. government sponsored enterprises		-		-		10,044		625		10,044		625
GSE -Mortgage-backed securities		21,715		550		199,648		22,437		221,363		22,987
Private label mortgage-backed securities		8,142		35		26,089		1,913		34,231		1,948
State and political subdivisions		-		-		105,066		24,793		105,066		24,793
Total	$	29,857		585		347,933		50,659		377,790		51,244

(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31, 2023
	Less than 12 Months				12 Months or More				Total
	Fair Value		Unrealized Losses		Fair Value		Unrealized Losses		Fair Value		Unrealized 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

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At March 31, 2024, unrealized losses in the investment securities portfolio relating to debt securities totaled $51.2 million. The unrealized losses on these debt securities arose due to changing interest rates and are considered to be temporary. From the March 31, 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”), 114 of the 124 GSE mortgage-backed securities, and 15 of the 16 private label mortgage backed securities contained unrealized losses. The Company did not have any reserves on available for sale securities at March 31, 2024, as no credit related losses were identified in the Company’s March 31, 2024 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 March 31, 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.

March 31, 2024
(Dollars in thousands)
	Amortized Cost		Fair Value
Due within one year	$	2,996		2,938
Due from one to five years		16,180		14,702
Due from five to ten years		57,483		48,321
Due after ten years		71,846		56,235
Mortgage-backed securities		297,193		272,468
Total	$	445,698		394,664

No securities available for sale were sold during the three months ended March 31, 2024. During the three months ended March 31, 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 $109.0 million and $132.0 million at March 31, 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

Major classifications of loans at March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 are summarized as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
	March 31, 2024			December 31, 2023
Real estate loans:
Construction and land development	$	129,284			136,401
Single-family residential		375,621			372,825
Commercial		438,683			425,820
Multifamily and farmland		71,545			63,042
Total real estate loans		1,015,133			998,088

Loans not secured by real estate:
Commercial		68,138			70,544
Farm		534			550
Consumer		6,643			6,966
All other		16,222			16,918

Total loans		1,106,670			1,093,066

Less allowance for credit losses		(10,847	)		(11,041	)

Total net loans	$	1,095,823			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.

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.

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

March 31, 2024
(Dollars in thousands)
	Loans 30- 89 Days Past Due		Nonaccrual		Total Past Due Loans		Total Current Loans		Total Loans		Accruing Loans 90 or More Days Past Due
Real estate loans:
Construction and land development	$	-		43		43		129,241		129,284		-
Single-family residential		5,787		3,323		9,110		366,511		375,621		-
Commercial		915		-		915		437,768		438,683		-
Multifamily and farmland		-		72		72		71,473		71,545		-
Total real estate loans		6,702		3,438		10,140		1,004,993		1,015,133		-

Loans not secured by real estate:
Commercial		143		552		695		67,443		68,138		-
Farm		-		-		-		534		534		-
Consumer		29		1		30		6,613		6,643		-
All other		-		-		-		16,222		16,222		-
Total loans	$	6,874		3,991		10,865		1,095,805		1,106,670		-

December 31, 2023
(Dollars in thousands)
	Loans 30- 89 Days Past Due		Nonaccrual		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		-

The following table presents non-accrual loans as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023:

	March 31, 2024
	Nonaccrual Loans		Nonaccrual Loans		Total
	With No		With		Nonaccrual
(Dollars in thousands)	Allowance		Allowance		Loans
Real estate loans:
Construction and land development	$	43		-		43
Single-family residential		3,197		126		3,323
Commercial		-		-		-
Multifamily and farmland		72		-		72
Total real estate loans		3,312		126		3,438

Loans not secured by real estate:
Commercial		254		298		552
Consumer		1		-		1
Total	$	3,567		424		3,991

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	December 31, 2023
	Nonaccrual Loans		Nonaccrual 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
Commercial		-		-		-
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 three months ended March 31, 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.

Because of the measurement methodologies used to estimate the allowance, a change to the allowance for credit losses is generally not recorded upon 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 March 31, 2024 and 2023 of the loans to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty that were modified during the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, disaggregated by loan class and type of concession granted.

(Dollars in thousands)
	Term Extension
	Amortized Cost Basis at March 31, 2024		% of Loan Class
Loan class:
Commercial not secured by real estate		73		0.11	%
Total	$	73

(Dollars in thousands)
	Term Extension
	Amortized Cost Basis at March 31, 2023		% of Loan Class
Loan class:
Commercial real estate		686		0.17	%
Total	$	686

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The following tables describes the financial effect of the modifications made to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty during the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023

March 31, 2024

Term Extension
Loan Class		Financial Effect
Commercial real estate		Line of credit converted to amortizing term loan.

March 31, 2023

Term Extension
Loan Class		Financial Effect
Commercial real estate		Extended existing amortization from 148 months to 173 months to keep existing payment the same with the current market rate.

No loans modified in the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 that were made to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty had been written off at March 31, 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 three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023.

March 31, 2024
(Dollars in thousands)
	Payment Status (Amortized Cost Basis)
	Current		30 - 89 Days Past Due		90 + Days Past Due
Loan type:
Commercial real estate		73		-		-
Total	$	73		-		-

March 31, 2023
(Dollars in thousands)
	Payment Status (Amortized Cost Basis)
	Current		30 - 89 Days Past Due		90 + Days Past Due
Loan type:
Commercial real estate		686		-		-
Total	$	686		-		-

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The following tables present changes in the allowance for credit losses for the three months ended March 31, 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 March 31, 2024
Allowance for credit losses:
Beginning balance	$	3,913			3,484		2,317			268		812			2		245			11,041
Charge-offs		-			-		-			-		(446	)		-		(210	)		(656	)
Recoveries		-			56		201			-		6			-		36			299
Provision (recovery) for
loan losses (1)		(233	)		57		(173	)		45		300			-		167			163
Ending balance	$	3,680			3,597		2,345			313		672			2		238			10,847
Allowance for credit loss-loans	$	3,680			3,597		2,345			313		672			2		238			10,847
Allowance for credit losses
loan commitments		1,692			5		-			-		-			-		1			1,698
Total allowance for credit losses	$	5,372			3,602		2,345			313		672			2		239			12,545

(1) Excludes provision for credit losses related to unfunded commitments. Note 8,"Commitments and Contingencies" in the condensed consolidated financial statements provides more detail concerning the provision for credit losses related to unfunded commitments.

(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 March 31, 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		-		-		-			-		-			-			(166	)		-			(166	)
Recoveries		-		11		2			-		9			-			60			-			82
Provision (recovery) for
loan losses (1)		250		31		21			19		(23	)		(1	)		130			-			427
Ending balance	$	3,249		3,191		2,244			298		348			1			286			-			9,617
Allowance for credit loss-loans	$	3,249		3,191		2,244			298		348			1			286			-			9,617
Allowance for credit losses
loan commitments		2,004		67		-			-		-			-			4			-			2,075
Total allowance for credit losses	$	5,253		3,258		2,244			298		348			1			290			-			11,692

(1) Excludes adjustment for CECL implemenation and provision for credit losses related to unfunded commitments. Note 8,"Commitments and Contingencies" in the condensed consolidated financial statements provides more detail concerning the implementation adjustment and provision for credit losses related to unfunded commitments.

Three loans, totaling $891,000, were individually evaluated as of March 31, 2024, including two loans, totaling $816,000, that were collateral dependent. The were no collateral dependent loans individually evaluated at December 31, 2023. The following table shows collateral dependent loans at March 31, 2024.

Table of Contents

(Dollars in thousands)
	March 31, 2024
	Amortized Cost		Allowance (1)
Real estate loans:
Construction and land development	$	-		-
Single-family residential		370		126
Commercial		-		-
Multifamily and farmland		-		-
Total real estate loans		370		126

Loans not secured by real estate:
Commercial		446		223
Farm		-		-
Consumer		-		-
All other		-		-

Total	$	816		349

(1) Based on estimated value of residential real estate collateral and motor boat inventory collateral.

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 March 31, 2024.

	Term Loans by Origination Year														Revolving
															Loans
													Revolving		Converted to		Total
(dollars in thousands)	2024		2023		2022		2021		2020		Prior		Loans		Term Loans		Loans
March 31, 2024
Real Estate Loans
Construction and land
development
Pass	$	8,151		41,527		56,601		9,869		6,571		5,110		924		-		128,753
Watch		-		-		-		447		-		-		-		-		447
Substandard		-		-		-		-		-		84		-		-		84
Total Construction and
land development	$	8,151		41,527		56,601		10,316		6,571		5,194		924		-		129,284
Single family
Pass	$	5,227		32,390		79,539		46,367		23,390		75,395		106,257		-		368,565
Watch		-		-		-		-		-		1,462		860		-		2,322
Substandard		-		-		370		-		-		3,991		373		-		4,734
Total single family	$	5,227		32,390		79,909		46,367		23,390		80,848		107,490		-		375,621
Commercial
Pass	$	19,992		46,189		113,557		77,096		61,101		113,221		1,890		-		433,046
Watch		-		230		-		-		115		4,884		-		-		5,229
Substandard		-		-		-		-		408		-		-		-		408
Total commercial	$	19,992		46,419		113,557		77,096		61,624		118,105		1,890		-		438,683
Multifamily and farmland
Pass	$	216		8,892		21,451		21,335		6,467		12,725		340		-		71,426
Watch		-		-		-		-		-		46		-		-		46
Substandard		-		-		-		-		-		73		-		-		73
Total multifamily and
farmland	$	216		8,892		21,451		21,335		6,467		12,844		340		-		71,545
Total real estate loans	$	33,586		129,228		271,518		155,114		98,052		216,991		110,644		-		1,015,133
Loans not secured by real estate
Commercial
Pass	$	2,464		8,737		13,570		4,332		2,381		13,711		21,270		-		66,465
Watch		-		627		-		73		286		134		1		-		1,121
Substandard		-		31		521		-		-		-		-		-		552
Total Commercial	$	2,464		9,395		14,091		4,405		2,667		13,845		21,271		-		68,138
Farm
Pass	$	-		195		40		68		-		19		212		-		534
Watch		-		-		-		-		-		-		-		-		-
Substandard		-		-		-		-		-		-		-		-		-
Total farm	$	-		195		40		68		-		19		212		-		534
Consumer
Pass	$	453		1,967		1,150		306		178		116		2,467		-		6,637
Watch		-		-		-		-		-		-		1		-		1
Substandard		-		-		-		1		-		1		3		-		5
Total consumer	$	453		1,967		1,150		307		178		117		2,471		-		6,643
All other
Pass	$	392		-		6,360		450		257		3,422		5,206		-		16,087
Watch		-		-		-		-		-		73		62		-		135
Substandard		-		-		-		-		-		-		-		-		-
Total all other	$	392		-		6,360		450		257		3,495		5,268		-		16,222
Total loans not secured
by real estate	$	3,309		11,557		21,641		5,230		3,102		17,476		29,222		-		91,537
Total loans	$	36,895		140,785		293,159		160,344		101,154		234,467		139,866		-		1,106,670

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The following table presents by credit quality indicator, loan class and year of origination, gross loan charge-offs as of March 31, 2024.

	Gross Loan Charge-offs by Origination Year														Revolving
															Loans
													Revolving		Converted to		Total
(dollars in thousands)	2024		2023		2022		2021		2020		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		-		347		99		-		-		-		-		-		446
Consumer		-		-		4		-		-		99		-		-		103
All other		-		-		-		-		-		107		-		-		107

Total gross charge-offs	$	-		347		103		-		-		206		-		-		656

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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
													Revolving		Converted to		Total
(dollars in thousands)	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 as of December 31, 2023.

	Gross Loan Charge-offs by Origination Year														Revolving
															Loans
													Revolving		Converted to		Total
(dollars in thousands)	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

As of March 31, 2024, the Bank had operating right of use assets of $4.6 million and operating lease liabilities of $4.7 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 March 31, 2024 and 2023.

(Dollars in thousands)
	March 31, 2024			March 31, 2023

Operating lease cost	$	815		$	206

Other information:
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities		787			201
Operating cash flows from operating leases		-			-
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new lease liabilities - operating leases		-			-
Weighted-average remaining lease term - operating leases		8.30			9.12
Weighted-average discount rate - operating leases		2.74	%		2.60	%

The following table presents lease maturities as of March 31, 2024.

2024	$	615
2025		773
2026		650
2027		612
2028		510
Thereafter		2,115
Total		5,275
Less: Imputed Interest		(615	)
Operating Lease Liability	$	4,660

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(7) Securities Sold Under Agreements to Repurchase (“repurchase agreements”)

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 March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, repurchase agreements totaled $59.2 million and $86.7 million, respectively.

These borrowings were collateralized with government-sponsored enterprise securities with a market value of $69.1 million and $89.8 million at March 31, 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
	3/31/24		12/31/23
Financial instruments whose contract amount represent credit risk:

Commitments to extend credit	$	370,525		367,482

Standby letters of credit	$	3,328		3,721

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 $373.9 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 $1.7 million and $2.1 million at March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, is separately classified on the balance sheet within Other Liabilities.

The following table presents the balance and activity in the allowance for credit losses for unfunded loan commitments for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023.

(dollars in thousands)
	March 31, 2024			March 31, 2023

Beginning Balance	$	1,770		$	-
Cummulative effect of change in accounting principle		-			2,278
Provision for (recovery of) credit losses		(72	)		(203	)
Ending balance	$	1,698		$	2,075

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(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.

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.

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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 March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023.

(Dollars in thousands)
	March 31, 2024
	Fair Value		Level 1 Valuation		Level 2 Valuation		Level 3 Valuation
U.S. Treasuries	$	7,086		-		7,086		-
U.S. Government sponsored enterprises		10,044		-		10,044		-
GSE - Mortgage-backed securities		237,116		-		237,116		-
Private label mortgage-backed securities		35,352		-		35,352		-
State and political subdivisions		105,066		-		105,066		-

(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31, 2023
	Fair Value		Level 1 Valuation		Level 2 Valuation		Level 3 Valuation
U.S. Treasuries	$	9,814		-		9,814		-
U.S. Government
Sponsored enterprises		11,539		-		11,539		-
Mortgage-backed securities		273,838		-		273,838		-
State and political subdivisions		150,203		-		150,203		-
Mutual funds held in deferred compensation trust		1,327		-		1,327

The fair value measurements for mortgage loans held for sale and individually evaluated loans on a non-recurring basis at March 31, 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.

(Dollars in thousands)
	Fair Value Measurements March 31, 2024		Level 1 Valuation		Level 2 Valuation		Level 3 Valuation
Individually evaluated loans	$	467		-		-		467

(Dollars in thousands)

Fair Value Measurements December 31, 2023

Level 1 Valuation

Level 2 Valuation

Level 3 Valuation

Individually evaluated loans

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(Dollars in thousands)

Fair Value

March 31, 2024

Fair Value

December 31, 2023

Valuation

Technique

Significant Unobservable Inputs

General Range of Significant Unobservable Input Values

Individually evaluated loans

467

Appraised value

Discounts to reflect current market conditions and ultimate collectability

0 - 25%

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

(Dollars in thousands)
			Fair Value Measurements at March 31, 2024
	Carrying Amount		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	98,096		98,096		-		-		98,096
Investment securities available for sale		394,664		-		394,664		-		394,664
Other investments		2,858		-		-		2,858		2,858
Mortgage loans held for sale		1,292		-		1,292		-		1,292
Loans, net		1,095,823		-		-		1,083,635		1,083,635
Mutual funds held in deferred
compensation trust		2,394		2,394		-		-		2,394

Liabilities:
Deposits	$	1,452,364		-		1,456,401		-		1,456,401
Securities sold under agreements
to repurchase		59,216		-		59,216		-		59,216
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

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.

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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.

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 March 31, 2024
Interest income	$	19,801	$	-	$	9		$	19,810
Interest expense		6,222		-		284			6,506
Net interest income		13,579		-		(275	)		13,304
Provision for credit losses		91		-		-			91
Noninterest income		3,624		-		-			3,624
Appraisal management fee income		-		2,414		-			2,414
Noninterest expense		12,106		344		162			12,612
Appraisal management fee expense		-		1,904		-			1,904
Income tax expense (benefit)		841		38		(92	)		787
Net income (loss)	$	4,165	$	128	$	(345	)	$	3,948
Total assets	$	1,665,209	$	3,847	$	504		$	1,669,560
As of and for the three months ended March 31, 2023
Interest income	$	16,793	$	-	$	8		$	16,801
Interest expense		2,215		-		248			2,463
Net interest income		14,578		-		(240	)		14,338
Provision for credit losses		224		-		-			224
Noninterest income		1,517		-		-			1,517
Appraisal management fee income		-		2,094		-			2,094
Noninterest expense		11,564		334		154			12,052
Appraisal management fee expense		-		1,650		-			1,650
Income tax expense (benefit)		909		25		(83	)		851
Net income (loss)	$	3,398	$	85	$	(311	)	$	3,172
Total assets	$	1,598,863	$	3,329	$	500		$	1,602,692

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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 since March 1, 2022 to a range of 5.25% to 5.50% at March 31, 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. The following is a summary of some of the more subjective and complex accounting policies of the Company. A more 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 $3.9 million or $0.74 per share and $0.72 per diluted share for the three months ended March 31, 2024, compared to $3.2 million or $0.58 per share and $0.56 per diluted share for the prior year period. The increase in first quarter 2024 net earnings is primarily the result of 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 0.96% for the three months ended March 31, 2024, compared to 0.81% for the same period one year ago, and annualized return on average shareholders’ equity was 13.51% for the three months ended March 31, 2024, compared to 11.78% 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 $13.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024, compared to $14.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023. The decrease in net interest income is due to a $4.0 million increase in interest expense, partially offset by a $3.0 million increase in interest income. Net interest income after the provision for credit losses was $13.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024, compared to $14.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023. The provision for credit losses for the three months ended March 31, 2024 was $91,000, compared to $224,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2023. The decrease in the provision for credit losses is primarily attributable to a reduction in reserves on unfunded loan commitments, which was partially offset by reserves on loans individually evaluated at March 31, 2024.

Interest income was $19.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024, compared to $16.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023. The increase in interest income is due to a $2.3 million increase in interest income and fees on loans, a $524,000 increase in interest income on balances due from banks and a $230,000 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 from February 2023 through July 2023. The increase in interest income on balances due from banks is also due to an increase in balances outstanding and rate increases by the Federal Reserve. The increase in interest income on investment securities is primarily due to higher yields on securities purchased during the three months ended March 31, 2024. During the three months ended March 31, 2024, average loans were $1.09 billion, an increase of $55.5 million from average loans of $1.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023. During the three months ended March 31, 2024, average investment securities available for sale were $443.5 million, a decrease of $32.8 million from average investment securities available for sale of $476.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023. The average yield on loans for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 was 5.57% and 5.04%, respectively. The average yield on investment securities available for sale was 3.36% and 2.98% for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The average yield on earning assets was 4.96% and 4.41% for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.

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Interest expense was $6.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024, compared to $2.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 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 March 31, 2024, average interest-bearing non-maturity deposits were $648.3 million, a decrease of $126.8 million from average interest-bearing non-maturity deposits of $775.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023. During the three months ended March 31, 2024, average certificates of deposit were $352.2 million, an increase of $233.5 million from average certificates of deposit of $118.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023. The average rate paid on interest-bearing checking and savings accounts was 1.28% and 0.78% for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The average rate paid on certificates of deposit was 4.20% for the three months ended March 31, 2024, compared to 1.76% for the same period one year ago. The average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities was 2.40% for the three months ended March 31, 2024, compared to 1.05% 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 March 31, 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 March 31, 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 March 31, 2024							Three months ended March 31, 2023
(Dollars in thousands)		Average Balance			Interest	Yield / Rate			Average Balance			Interest	Yield / Rate
Interest-earning assets:

Loans receivable	$	1,092,658		$	15,138	5.57	%	$	1,037,124		$	12,883	5.04	%
Investments - taxable		310,014			3,008	3.90	%		340,536			2,829	3.37	%
Investments - nontaxable*		136,791			763	2.24	%		138,819			754	2.20	%
Due from banks		66,518			907	5.48	%		32,453			383	4.79	%

Total interest-earning assets		1,605,981			19,816	4.96	%		1,548,932			16,849	4.41	%

Non-interest earning assets:
Cash and due from banks		32,045							37,515
Allowance for credit losses		(11,062	)						(10,443	)
Other assets		20,838							20,784

Total assets	$	1,647,802						$	1,596,788

Interest-bearing liabilities:

Interest-bearing demand, MMDA & savings deposits	$	648,306		$	2,060	1.28	%	$	775,101		$	1,488	0.78	%
Time deposits		352,247			3,681	4.20	%		118,763			516	1.76	%
Junior subordinated debentures		15,464			284	7.39	%		15,464			248	6.50	%
Other		72,695			481	2.66	%		42,233			211	2.03	%

Total interest-bearing liabilities		1,088,712			6,506	2.40	%		951,561			2,463	1.05	%

Non-interest bearing liabilities and shareholders' equity:
Demand deposits		427,752							523,544
Other liabilities		13,814							12,433
Shareholders' equity		117,524							109,250

Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$	1,647,802						$	1,596,788

Net interest spread				$	13,310	2.56	%				$	14,386	3.36	%

Net yield on interest-earning assets						3.33	%						3.77	%

Taxable equivalent adjustment
Investment securities				$	6						$	48

Net interest income				$	13,304						$	14,338

*Includes U.S. Government agency securities that are non-taxable for state income tax purposes of $10.9 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.

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 March 31, 2024 compared to three months ended March 31, 2023									Three months ended March 31, 2023 compared to three months ended March 31, 2022
(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	$	730			1,525			2,255			1,780			1,361		3,141
Investments - taxable		(275	)		454			179			307			1,517		1,824
Investments - nontaxable		(11	)		20			9			49			144		193
Due from banks		433			91			524			(1,389	)		1,661		272
Total interest income		877			2,090			2,967			747			4,683		5,430

Interest expense:
Interest-bearing demand,
MMDA & savings deposits		(323	)		895			572			(29	)		1,114		1,085
Time deposits		1,727			1,438			3,165			53			316		369
Junior subordinated debentures		-			36			36			-			173		173
Other		177			93			270			11			162		173
Total interest expense		1,581			2,462			4,043			35			1,765		1,800
Net interest income	$	(704	)		(372	)		(1,076	)		712			2,918		3,630

Provision for Credit Losses.The provision for credit losses for the three months ended March 31, 2024 was $91,000, compared to $224,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2023. The decrease in the provision for credit losses is primarily attributable to a provision reduction of $337,000 for other construction loans and all land development and other land loans as a result of an overall decrease in funded loan balances and unfunded commitments in this category, a decrease in provision of $224,000 for loans secured by owner-occupied, nonfarm nonresidential properties as a result of a $200,000 recovery during the first quarter of 2024, partially offset by an increase in provision for individually evaluated loans of $321,000 for commercial and industrial loans and $94,000 for 1-4 family loans secured by first liens during the three months ended March 31, 2024.

Non-Interest Income. Non-interest income was $6.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024, compared to $3.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023. The increase in non-interest income is primarily attributable to a $2.5 million net loss on the sales of securities during the three months ended March 31, 2023, and no comparable losses in the three months ended March 31, 2024.

Non-Interest Expense. Non-interest expense was $14.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024, compared to $13.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023. The increase in non-interest expense is primarily attributable to a $480,000 increase in salaries and employee benefits expense primarily due to an increase in insurance expense and a $254,000 increase in appraisal management fee expense due to an increase in appraisal volume.

Income Taxes. Income tax expense was $787,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2024, compared to $851,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2023. The effective tax rate was 16.62% for the three months ended March 31, 2024, compared to 21.15% for the three months ended March 31, 2023. The decrease in the effective tax rate is primarily due to a $322,000 interest receivable booked during the three months ended March 31, 2024 on a deposit for taxes paid prior to a recent settlement with the North Carolina Department of Revenue (“NCDOR”) to withdraw the disallowance of certain tax credits previously purchased by the Bank.

Analysis of Financial Condition

Investment Securities. Available for sale securities were $394.7 million as of March 31, 2024, compared to $391.9 million as of December 31, 2023. Average investment securities available for sale for the three months ended March 31, 2024 were $443.5 million, compared to $454.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2023.

Loans. Total loans were $1.09 billion as of March 31, 2024, compared to $1.08 billion at December 31, 2023. Average loans represented 68% of average earning assets for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and the year ended December 31, 2023.

The Bank had $1.3 million and $686,000 in mortgage loans held for sale as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively.

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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 March 31, 2024, the Bank had $116.6 million in residential mortgage loans, $107.8 million in home equity loans and $659.5 million in commercial mortgage loans, which include $510.2 million secured by commercial property and $149.3 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 March 31, 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.

The ACL balance was $10.8 million at March 31, 2024 as compared to $11.0 million at December 31, 2023. The decrease is primarily composed of a $213,000 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 first quarter of 2024, a decrease of $57,000 in reserves in loans secured by owner-occupied, nonfarm nonresidential properties as a result of a $200,000 recovery during the first quarter of 2024, partially offset by an increase in reserves of $85,000 in loans secured by other nonfarm nonresidential properties caused by an increase in balances for loans in this category at March 31, 2024 as compared to December 31, 2023.

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 March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023. A decrease of $36,000 between these periods is mainly attributable to the decrease in reserves of $109,000 for other construction loans and all land development and other land loans as a result of decreases in loan balances for this category, partially offset by an increase in reserves of $84,000 for loans secured by other nonfarm nonresidential properties as a result of balance increases for this category. No changes to the risk status of any of the risk factors was made during the first 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. Three loans, totaling $891,000, were individually evaluated as of March 31, 2024, and two loans totaling $432,000 were individually evaluated as of December 31, 2023. Reserves on individually evaluated loans were $424,000 and $432,000 at March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively.

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 is represented by 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.

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The allowance for credit losses on off-balance sheet credit exposures was $1.7 million and $1.8 million at March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. The decrease of $72,000 in the first quarter of 2024 was the result of a decrease in the allowance balance of $69,000 for other construction loans and all land development and other land loans. The overall balances in this category decreased in the first quarter of 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 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 board of directors of the Bank (the “Bank Board”).

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.

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Non-performing Assets. Non-performing assets were $4.0 million or 0.23% of total assets at March 31, 2024, compared to $3.9 million or 0.24% of total assets at December 31, 2023. Non-accrual loans were $4.0 million at March 31, 2024, compared to $3.8 million at December 31, 2023. As a percentage of total loans outstanding, non-accrual loans were 0.36% at March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023. Non-accrual loans over $250,000 are individually evaluated for impairment. Non-performing assets include $3.4 million in commercial and residential mortgage loans and $553,000 in other loans at March 31, 2024, compared to $3.4 million in commercial and 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 March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023. The Bank had no other real estate owned at March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023.

Deposits. Deposits were $1.45 billion as of March 31, 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 $1.30 billion at March 31, 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 $148.8 million at March 31, 2024, compared to $148.9 million December 31, 2023.

Estimated uninsured deposits totaled $390.2 million, or 26.86% of total deposits, at March 31, 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 March 31, 2024.

Borrowed Funds. There were no FHLB borrowings outstanding at March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023. Securities sold under agreements to repurchase were $59.2 million at March 31, 2023, compared to $86.7 million at December 31, 2023. The decrease in securities sold under agreements to repurchase is primarily due to customers transferring funds from securities sold under agreements to repurchase to deposits via the IntraFi network’s Insured Cash Sweep (“ICS”) during the three months ended March 31, 2024

Junior Subordinated Debentures (related to Trust Preferred Securities). Junior subordinated debentures were $15.5 million at March 31, 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 three months ended March 31, 2024 totaled $1.61 billion, exceeding average rate sensitive liabilities of $1.09 billion by $517.3 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 March 31, 2024.

Included in the rate sensitive assets are $184.6 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 March 31, 2024, the Company had $118.7 million in loans with interest rate floors. No floors were in effect on loans with floors on interest rates charged at March 31, 2024.

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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 March 31, 2024, such unfunded commitments to extend credit were $370.5 million, while commitments in the form of standby letters of credit totaled $3.3 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 March 31, 2024, the Bank’s core deposits, a non-GAAP measure, totaled $1.30 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’s ratio of wholesale funding to total assets was 0.49% and 0.50% as of March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively.

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 March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023. At March 31, 2024, the carrying value of loans pledged as collateral to the FHLB totaled $217.4 million compared to $214.1 million at December 31, 2023. The remaining availability under the line of credit with the FHLB was $126.5 million at March 31, 2024 compared to $122.2 million at December 31, 2023. The Bank had no borrowings from the FRB at March 31, 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 March 31, 2024, the carrying value of loans pledged as collateral to the FRB totaled $612.1 million compared to $611.2 million at December 31, 2023. Availability under the line of credit with the FRB was $477.0 million at March 31, 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 March 31, 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 27.33% at March 31, 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 March 31, 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 $121.1 million, or 7.25% of total assets, at March 31, 2024, compared to $121.0 million, or 7.40% of total assets, at December 31, 2023.

Annualized return on average equity for the three months ended March 31, 2024 was 13.51%, compared to 11.78% for the three months ended March 31, 2023. Total cash dividends paid on common stock were $1.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 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.

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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.

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 March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023. The Company’s Tier 1 capital ratio was 13.84% and 13.94% at March 31, 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 14.83% and 14.96% at March 31, 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 12.66% and 12.75% at March 31, 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 10.39% and 10.51% at March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively.

The Bank’s Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio was 13.73% and 13.83% at March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. The total risk-based capital ratio for the Bank was 14.72% and 14.85% at March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. The Bank’s common equity Tier 1 capital ratio was 13.73% and 13.83% at March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. The Bank’s Tier 1 leverage capital ratio was 10.23% and 10.35% at March 31, 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 March 31, 2024.

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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.

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

On October 19, 2018, the Bank received a draft audit report from the North Carolina Department of Revenue (“NCDOR”) setting forth certain proposed adjustments to the North Carolina income tax returns for the Bank for the tax years January 1, 2014 through December 31, 2016. The NCDOR sought to disallow certain tax credits taken by the Bank in tax years January 1, 2014 through December 31, 2016 from an investment made by the Bank. The total proposed adjustments sought by the NCDOR as of the date of the draft audit report (including additional tax, penalties and interest up to the date of the draft audit report) was approximately $1.4 million. The Bank disagreed with the NCDOR’s adjustments and the disallowance of certain tax credits, and contested the proposed adjustments and the disallowance of such tax credits. During the second quarter of 2019, the Bank paid NCDOR $1.2 million in taxes and interest associated with the proposed adjustments noted above. This payment stopped the accrual of interest during the period while the proposed adjustments and disallowance are being contested, and the NCDOR waived associated penalties. The NCDOR has withdrawn the disallowance and a settlement allowing the tax credits has been finalized. The Bank will be receiving a refund of the taxes and associated payments plus interest.

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. There have been no material changes to the risk factors previously disclosed in the Form 10-K.

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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)

January 1 - 31, 2024		-	$	-		-	$	2,003,184

February 1 - 29, 2024		79,690	$	25.48		78,500	$	5,147

March 1 - 31, 2024		750	$	27.51		-	$	5,147

Total		80,440	$	25.50		78,500

(1)	The Company purchased 1,940 shares on the open market in the three months ended March 31, 2024 for its deferred compensation plan. All purchases were funded by participant contributions to the plan.

(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 March 2023 and December 2023. The stock repurchase program expired in March 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 March 31, 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

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 March 31, 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.

May 2, 2024		/s/ Lance A. Sellers
Date		Lance A. Sellers President and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer)

May 2, 2024

/s/ Jeffrey N. Hooper

Date

Jeffrey N. Hooper

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial and Principal Accounting Officer)

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SEC Form 10-Q filed by Peoples Bancorp of North Carolina Inc.

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