UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)

 

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

 

For the quarterly period ended             June 30, 2014

or

 

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

 

For the transition period from   to  

 

Commission File Number: 0-31525

 

AMERICAN RIVER BANKSHARES

 

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

California   68-0352144
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)   (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
     
3100 Zinfandel Drive, Suite 450, Rancho Cordova, California   95670
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)

 

(916) 851-0123

 

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 

Not Applicable

 

(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report.)

 

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 x No o

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted 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 and post such files).

Yes x No o

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

 

  Large accelerated filer o  Accelerated filer o
      
  Non-accelerated filer x (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) Smaller reporting company o

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

Yes o No x

 

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date:

 

No par value Common Stock –  8,089,615 shares outstanding at August 4, 2014.

 
 

AMERICAN RIVER BANKSHARES

INDEX TO QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-Q
FOR THE QUARTER ENDED JUNE 30, 2014

Part I.     Page
       
Item 1. Financial Statements     3
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations   28
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk   48
Item 4. Controls and Procedures   49
       
Part II.      
       
Item 1. Legal Proceedings   49
Item 1A. Risk Factors   49
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds   49
Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities   50
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures   50
Item 5. Other Information   50
Item 6. Exhibits   50
       
Signatures 55
     
Exhibit Index 56
     
31.1 Certifications of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002   57
31.2 Certifications of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002   58
32.1 Certification of American River Bankshares by its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002   59
       
101.INS XBRL Instance Document
101.SCH XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema
101.CAL XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation
101.DEF XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition
101.LAB XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label
101.PRE XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation

2
 

PART I-FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1. Financial Statements.

 

AMERICAN RIVER BANKSHARES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

(Unaudited)

 

(dollars in thousands) 

June 30,

2014

  

December 31,

2013

 
         
ASSETS           
           
Cash and due from banks  $19,107   $17,948 
Interest-bearing deposits in banks
   1,000    1,000 
Investment securities:          
Available-for-sale, at fair value   279,986    272,791 
Held-to-maturity, at amortized cost   1,015    1,185 
Loans and leases, less allowance for loan and lease losses of $5,462 at June 30, 2014 and $5,346 at December 31, 2013   246,521    251,747 
Premises and equipment, net   1,595    1,500 
Federal Home Loan Bank stock   3,686    3,248 
Goodwill and other intangible assets   16,321    16,321 
Other real estate owned   6,864    6,621 
Bank owned life insurance   12,815    12,686 
Accrued interest receivable and other assets   5,824    7,706 
   $594,734   $592,753 
           
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY          
           
Deposits:          
     Noninterest bearing   $149,169   $145,516 
     Interest-bearing   341,689    338,174 
             Total deposits   490,858    483,690 
           
Short-term borrowings   1,500    8,000 
Long-term borrowings   9,500    8,000 
Accrued interest payable and other liabilities   5,312    6,043 
           
             Total liabilities    507,170    505,733 
           
Commitments and contingencies          
           
Shareholders’ equity:          
Preferred stock, no par value; 20,000,000 shares authorized; none outstanding          
Common stock, no par value; 20,000,000 shares authorized; issued and outstanding – 8,089,615 shares at June 30, 2014 and 8,489,247 shares at December 31, 2013   57,031    61,108 
Retained earnings   26,830    24,789 
Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of taxes   3,703    1,123 
           
            Total shareholders’ equity   87,564    87,020 
   $594,734   $592,753 

 

See Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

3
 

AMERICAN RIVER BANKSHARES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME

(Unaudited)

 

(dollars in thousands, except per share data)                
For the periods ended June 30,  Three months   Six months 
   2014   2013   2014   2013 
Interest income:                    
Interest and fees on loans  $3,520   $3,516   $6,975   $7,158 
Interest on deposits in banks   1        2    1 
Interest and dividends on investment securities:                    
Taxable   1,340    805    2,678    1,593 
Exempt from Federal income taxes   200    221    402    441 
Dividends   6    9    6    9 
Total interest income   5,067    4,551    10,063    9,202 
Interest expense:                    
Interest on deposits   254    301    516    632 
Interest on borrowings   37    74    79    150 
Total interest expense   291    375    595    782 
                     
Net interest income   4,776    4,176    9,468    8,420 
                     
Provision for loan and lease losses       100        200 
                     
Net interest income after provision for loan and lease losses   4,776    4,076    9,468    8,220 
                     
Noninterest income:                    
Service charges on deposit accounts   149    147    305    298 
Gain on sale of securities   17    3    17    3 
Rental income from other real estate owned   105    71    212    163 
Other noninterest income   237    227    476    609 
Total noninterest income   508    448    1,010    1,073 
                     
Noninterest expense:                    
Salaries and employee benefits   2,117    2,175    4,237    4,393 
Occupancy   296    301    603    602 
Furniture and equipment   188    191    366    385 
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation assessments   91    (16)   194    110 
Expenses related to other real estate owned   123    195    122    500 
Other expense   884    766    1,830    1,624 
Total noninterest expense   3,699    3,612    7,352    7,614 
                     
Income before provision for income taxes   1,585    912    3,126    1,679 
                     
Provision for income taxes   550    260    1,085    405 
                     
Net income  $1,035   $652   $2,041   $1,274 
                     
Basic earnings per share  $0.13   $0.07   $0.25   $0.14 
Diluted earnings per share  $0.13   $0.07   $0.25   $0.14 
                     
Cash dividends per share  $0.00   $0.00   $0.00   $0.00 

 

See notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

4
 

 AMERICAN RIVER BANKSHARES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

(Unaudited)

 

(dollars in thousands, except per share data)                
For the periods ended June 30,  Three months   Six months 
   2014   2013   2014   2013 
                 
Net income  $1,035   $652   $2,041   $1,274 
Other comprehensive income (loss):                    
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on investment securities arising during the period   2,479    (4,517)   4,316    (4,949)
Deferred tax (expense) benefit   (992)   1,807    (1,726)   1,980 
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on investment securities arising during the period, net of tax   1,487    (2,710)   2,590    (2,969)
                     
Reclassification adjustment for realized gains included in net income   (17)   (3)   (17)   (3)
Tax effect   7    1    7    1 
Realized gains, net of tax   (10)   (2)   (10)   (2)
                     
Total other comprehensive income (loss)   1,477    (2,712)   2,580    (2,971)
Comprehensive income (loss)  $2,512   $(2,060)  $4,621   $(1,697)

 

See Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

5
 

AMERICAN RIVER BANKSHARES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(Unaudited)

 

               Accumulated     
(dollars in thousands)  Common Stock       Other   Total 
           Retained   Comprehensive   Shareholders’ 
   Shares   Amount   Earnings   Income   Equity 
Balance, January 1, 2013   9,327,203    67,977    21,732    4,285    93,994 
Net income             3,057         3,057 
Other comprehensive income, net of tax:                         
Net change in unrealized gains on available-for-sale investment securities                  (3,162)   (3,162)
                          
Net restricted stock awarded and related compensation expense   11,448    111              111 
Stock option compensation expense        20              20 
Retirement of common stock   (849,404)   (7,000)             (7,000)
                          
Balance, December 31, 2013   8,489,247    61,108    24,789    1,123    87,020 
                          
Net income             2,041         2,041 
                          
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax:                         
Net change in unrealized gains on available-for-sale investment securities                  2,580    2,580 
                          
Net restricted stock award activity and related compensation expense   24,830    63              63 
                          
Stock option compensation expense        8              8 
Retirement of common stock   (424,462)   (4,148)             (4,148)
                          
Balance, June 30, 2014   8,089,615   $57,031   $26,830   $3,703   $87,564 

See Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

6
 

AMERICAN RIVER BANKSHARES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)

 

(dollars in thousands)        
For the six months ended June 30,        
   2014   2013 
         
Cash flows from operating activities:          
Net income  $2,041   $1,274 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:          
Provision for loan and lease losses       200 
(Decrease) increase in deferred loan origination fees, net   (65)   16 
Depreciation and amortization   226    266 
Gain on sale and call of investment securities   (17)   (3)
Amortization of investment security premiums and discounts, net   2,451    2,915 
Gain on life insurance death benefit       (118)
Increase in cash surrender values of life insurance policies   (129)   (5)
Stock based compensation expense   71    63 
(Gain) loss on sale and write-down of other real estate owned   (106)   208 
Decrease in accrued interest receivable and other assets   162    2,518 
Decrease in accrued interest payable and other liabilities   (731)   (705)
Net cash provided by operating activities   3,903    6,629 
           
Cash flows from investing activities:          
Proceeds from the sale of available-for-sale investment securities   2,632    5,822 
Proceeds from matured available-for-sale investment securities   105    185 
Proceeds from called available-for-sale investment securities   270     
Purchases of available-for-sale investment securities   (27,600)   (68,408)
Proceeds from principal repayments for available-for-sale investment securities   19,262    31,731 
Proceeds from principal repayments for held-to-maturity investment securities   171    621 
Net increase in interest-bearing deposits in banks       (250)
Net decrease in loans   5,103    3,692 
Proceeds from sale of other real estate   106    4,529 
Capitalized additions to other real estate   (54)   (187)
Death benefit from life insurance policy       419 
Net (increase) decrease in FHLB stock   (438)   6 
Purchases of equipment   (321)   (51)
           
Net cash used in investing activities   (764)   (21,891)

 

See Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

7
 

AMERICAN RIVER BANKSHARES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (Continued)
(Unaudited)

 

(dollars in thousands)        
For the six months ended June 30,        
   2014   2013 
         
Cash flows from financing activities:          
Net increase (decrease) in demand, interest-bearing and savings deposits  $10,604   $(10,067)
Net decrease in time deposits   (3,436)   (532)
Net(decrease) increase in short-term borrowings   (6,500)   6,000 
Net increase (decrease) in long-term borrowings   1,500    (8,000)
Cash paid to repurchase common stock   (4,148)   (3,906)
           
Net cash used in financing activities  $(1,980)  $(16,505)
           
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents   1,159    (31,767)
           
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year   17,948    55,461 
           
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period  $19,107   $23,694 

  

See Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements 

8
 

AMERICAN RIVER BANKSHARES

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

June 30, 2014

 

1. CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

In the opinion of management, the unaudited consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments (consisting of only normal recurring adjustments) necessary to present fairly the consolidated financial position of American River Bankshares (the “Company”) at June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the results of its operations and statement of comprehensive income for the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2014 and 2013, its cash flows for the six-month periods ended June 30, 2014 and 2013 and its statement of changes in shareholders’ equity for the year ended December 31, 2013 and the six months ended June 30, 2014 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

Certain disclosures normally presented in the notes to the annual consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America have been omitted. The Company believes that the disclosures are adequate to make the information not misleading. These interim consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company’s 2013 annual report on Form 10-K. The results of operations for the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2014 may not necessarily be indicative of the operating results for the full year.

 

In preparing such financial statements, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities as of the date of the balance sheet and revenues and expenses for the period. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates. Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant changes in the near term relate to the determination of the allowance for loan and lease losses, the provision for taxes, the valuation of goodwill and the estimated fair value of investment securities, impaired loans and other real estate owned.

 

Management has determined that since all of the banking products and services offered by the Company are available in each branch office of American River Bank, all branch offices are located within the same economic environment and management does not allocate resources based on the performance of different lending or transaction activities, it is appropriate to aggregate all of the branch offices and report them as a single operating segment. No client accounts for more than ten percent (10%) of revenues for the Company or American River Bank.

 

2. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION 

Equity Plans

On March 17, 2010, the Board of Directors adopted the 2010 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2010 Plan”). The 2010 Plan was approved by the Company’s shareholders on May 20, 2010. In 2000, the Board of Directors adopted and the Company’s shareholders approved a stock option plan (the “2000 Plan”), under which 221,666 options remain outstanding at June 30, 2014. At June 30, 2014, there were 50,034 stock options and 36,110 restricted shares outstanding and the total number of authorized shares that remain available for issuance under the 2010 Plan was 1,419,602. The 2010 Plan provides for the following types of stock-based awards: incentive stock options; nonqualified stock options; stock appreciation rights; restricted stock; restricted performance stock; unrestricted Company stock; and performance units. Awards awarded under the 2000 Plan were either incentive stock options or nonqualified stock options. Under the 2010 Plan, the awards may be granted to employees and directors under incentive and nonstatutory agreements and other awards agreements. The 2010 Plan and the 2000 Plan (collectively the “Plans”) require that the option price may not be less than the fair market value of the stock at the date the option is awarded. The option awards under the Plans expire on dates determined by the Board of Directors, but not later than ten years from the date of award. The vesting period is generally five years; however, the vesting period can be modified at the discretion of the Company’s Board of Directors. Outstanding option awards under the Plans are exercisable until their expiration, however, no new options will be awarded under the 2000 Plan. New shares are issued upon exercise of an option.

9
 

The award date fair value of awards is determined by the market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of award and is recognized ratably as compensation expense or director expense over the vesting periods. The shares of common stock awarded pursuant to such agreements vest in increments over one to five years from the date of award. The shares awarded to employees and directors under the restricted stock agreements vest on the applicable vesting dates only to the extent the recipient of the shares is then an employee or a director of the Company or one of its subsidiaries, and each recipient will forfeit all of the shares that have not vested on the date his or her employment or service is terminated.

Equity Compensation

For the three-month periods ended June 30, 2014 and 2013, the compensation cost recognized for equity compensation was $38,000 and $36,000, respectively. The recognized tax benefit for equity compensation expense was $13,000 and $14,000, respectively, for the three-month periods ended June 30, 2014 and 2013. For the six-month periods ended June 30, 2014 and 2013, the compensation cost recognized for equity compensation was $71,000 and $69,000, respectively. The recognized tax benefit for equity compensation expense was $25,000 and $22,000, respectively, for the six-month periods ended June 30, 2014 and 2013.

At June 30, 2014, the total compensation cost related to nonvested stock option awards not yet recorded was $102,000. This amount will be recognized over the next 5.0 years and the weighted average period of recognizing these costs is expected to be 2.7 years. At June 30, 2014, the total compensation cost related to restricted stock awards not yet recorded was $253,000. This amount will be recognized over the next 5.0 years and the weighted average period of recognizing these costs is expected to be 1.5 years.

Equity Plans Activity

Stock Options

There were 32,705 stock options awarded during the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2014 at an average exercise price of $8.85. There were no stock options awarded during the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2013. The weighted average award date fair value of options awarded for the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2014 was $2.44. A summary of option activity under the Plans as of June 30, 2014 and changes during the period then ended is presented below:

Options  Shares   Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
   Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
   Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value ($000)
 
Outstanding at January 1, 2014   277,923   $17.21    3.1 years   $82 
Awarded   32,705    8.85         
Exercised                
Cancelled   38,928    16.79         
Outstanding at June 30, 2014   271,700   $16.27    3.9 years   $39 
Vested at June 30, 2014   228,582   $17.75    2.9 years   $22 
Non-vested at June 30, 2014   43,118   $8.42    9.4 years   $17 

 

Restricted Stock

 

There were 24,830 shares of restricted stock awarded during the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2014. There were 11,448 shares of restricted stock awarded during the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2013. Of the restricted shares awarded in 2014, 13,560 restricted common shares will vest one year from the date of the award and 11,270 vest over five years at 20% per year from the date of the award. The 11,448 restricted shares awarded in 2013 vested one year from the date of the award. Award date fair value is determined by the market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of award ($8.85 on May 22, 2014 and $7.86 on May 16, 2013).

10
 

There were 12,710 restricted awards that were fully vested during the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2014 and there were 11,158 restricted awards that were fully vested during the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2013. There were zero awards that had been forfeited during the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2014 and June 30, 2013. The intrinsic value of nonvested restricted stock at June 30, 2014 was $316,000.

 

Restricted Stock  Shares   Weighted
Average Award
Date Fair Value
Nonvested at January 1, 2014   23,990   $7.22 
Awarded   24,830    8.85 
Less:  Vested   12,710    7.78 
Less:  Cancelled        
Nonvested at June 30, 2014   36,110   $8.14 

 

Other Equity Awards

 

There were no stock appreciation rights; restricted performance stock; unrestricted Company stock; or performance units awarded during the three-month or six-month month periods ended June 30, 2014 or 2013.

 

The intrinsic value used for stock options and restricted stock was derived from the market price of the Company’s common stock of $8.74 as of June 30, 2014.

 

3. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

 

In the normal course of business there are outstanding various commitments to extend credit which are not reflected in the financial statements, including loan commitments of approximately $32,616,000 and standby letters of credit of approximately $6,285,000 at June 30, 2014 and loan commitments of approximately $31,681,000 and standby letters of credit of approximately $6,363,000 at December 31, 2013. Such commitments relate primarily to real estate construction loans, revolving lines of credit and other commercial loans. However, all such commitments will not necessarily culminate in actual extensions of credit by the Company during 2014 as some of these are expected to expire without being fully drawn upon.

 

Standby letters of credit are commitments issued to guarantee the performance or financial obligation of a client to a third party. These guarantees are issued primarily relating to purchases of inventory, insurance programs, performance obligations to government agencies, or as security for real estate rents by commercial clients and are typically short-term in nature. Credit risk is similar to that involved in extending loan commitments to clients and accordingly, evaluation and collateral requirements similar to those for loan commitments are used. The majority of all such commitments are collateralized. The fair value of the liability related to these standby letters of credit, which represents the fees received for issuing the guarantees, was not significant at June 30, 2014 or December 31, 2013.

4. EARNINGS PER SHARE COMPUTATION

 

Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average common shares outstanding for the period (8,082,638 and 8,201,383 shares for the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2014, and 8,893,367 and 9,050,669 for the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2013). Diluted earnings per share reflect the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock, such as stock options or restricted stock, result in the issuance of common stock. Diluted earnings per share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average common shares outstanding for the period plus the dilutive effect of stock based awards. There were 9,276 and 10,515, respectively, dilutive shares for the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2014 and 4,758 and 3,983, respectively, dilutive shares for the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2013. For the three-month periods ended June 30, 2014 and 2013, there were 217,247 and 278,850 stock options, respectively, that were excluded from the calculation as they were considered antidilutive. For the six-month periods ended June 30, 2014 and 2013, there were 211,024 and 278,850 stock options, respectively, that were excluded from the calculation as they were considered antidilutive. Earnings per share is retroactively adjusted for stock dividends and stock splits, if applicable, for all periods presented.

11
 

5. INVESTMENT SECURITIES

The amortized cost and estimated fair values of investment securities at June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 consisted of the following (dollars in thousands):

 

Available-for-Sale

   June 30, 2014 
   Amortized
Cost
   Gross
Unrealized
Gains
   Gross
Unrealized
Losses
   Estimated
Fair
Value
 
Debt securities:                    
Mortgage-backed securities  $246,459   $5,218   $(645)  $251,032 
Obligations of states and political subdivisions   25,797    1,426    (36)   27,187 
Corporate bonds   1,505    125        1,630 
Equity securities:                    
Corporate stock   54    83        137 
   $273,815   $6,852   $(681)  $279,986 

 

   December 31, 2013 
   Amortized
Cost
   Gross
Unrealized
Gains
   Gross
Unrealized
Losses
   Estimated
Fair
Value
 
Debt securities:                    
Mortgage-backed securities  $243,058   $3,429   $(2,327)  $244,160 
Obligations of states and political subdivisions   26,302    775    (174)   26,903 
Corporate bonds   1,505    104        1,609 
Equity securities:                    
Corporate stock   54    65        119 
   $270,919   $4,373   $(2,501)  $272,791 

  

Net unrealized gains on available-for-sale investment securities totaling $6,171,000 were recorded, net of $2,468,000 in tax liabilities, as accumulated other comprehensive income within shareholders’ equity at June 30, 2014. Proceeds and gross realized gains from the sale and call of available-for-sale investment securities for the three-month period ended June 30, 2014 totaled $2,615,000 and $17,000, respectively, and for the six-month period ended June 30, 2014 totaled $2,885,000 and $17,000, respectively. There were no transfers of available-for-sale investment securities for the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2014.

Net unrealized gains on available-for-sale investment securities totaling $1,872,000 were recorded, net of $749,000 in tax liabilities, as accumulated other comprehensive income within shareholders’ equity at December 31, 2013. Proceeds and gross realized gains from the sale and call of available-for-sale investment securities for the three-month period ended June 30, 2013 totaled zero and zero, respectively, and for the six-month period ended June 30, 2013 totaled $5,822,000 and $3,000, respectively. There were no transfers of available-for-sale investment securities for the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2013.

12
 
Held-to-Maturity                
                 
June 30, 2014                
       Gross   Gross   Estimated 
   Amortized   Unrealized   Unrealized   Fair 
   Cost   Gains   Losses   Value 
Debt securities:                    
Mortgage-backed securities  $1,015   $72   $   $1,087 

 

December 31, 2013      Gross   Gross   Estimated 
   Amortized   Unrealized   Unrealized   Fair 
   Cost   Gains   Losses   Value 
Debt securities:                    
Mortgage-backed securities  $1,185   $78   $   $1,263 

 

There were no sales or transfers of held-to-maturity investment securities for the periods ended June 30, 2014 and June 30, 2013. Investment securities with unrealized losses at June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 are summarized and classified according to the duration of the loss period as follows (dollars in thousands):

   2014 
                         
   Less than 12 Months   12 Months or More   Total 
   Fair   Unrealized   Fair   Unrealized   Fair   Unrealized 
   Value   Losses   Value   Losses   Value   Losses 
Available-for-Sale                             
                               
Debt securities:                              
Mortgage-backed securities  $31,902   $(228)  $31,053   $(417)  $62,955   $(645)
Obligations of states and political subdivisions           1,409    (36)   1,409    (36)
   $31,902   $(228)  $32,462   $(453)  $64,364   $(681)

 

   2013 
                         
   Less than 12 Months   12 Months or More   Total 
   Fair   Unrealized   Fair   Unrealized   Fair   Unrealized 
   Value   Losses   Value   Losses   Value   Losses 
Available-for-Sale                              
                               
Debt securities:                              
Mortgage-backed Securities  $10,047   $(147)  $98,723   $(2,180)  $108,770   $(2,327)
Obligations of states and political subdivisions   4,223    (174)           4,223    (174)
   $14,270   $(321)  $98,723   $(2,180)  $112,993   $(2,501)

There were no held-to-maturity investment securities with unrealized losses as of June 30, 2014 or December 31, 2013.

At June 30, 2014, the Company held 221 securities of which 16 were in a loss position for less than twelve months and 15 were in a loss position for twelve months or more.  Of the 31 securities in a loss position, 29 are mortgage-backed securities and two are obligations of states and political subdivisions.  At December 31, 2013, the Company held 216 securities of which 49 were in a loss position for less than twelve months and five were in a loss position for twelve months or more. Of these securities in a loss position for less than twelve months, 44 are mortgage-backed securities and five are obligations of states and political subdivisions. All securities in a loss position for greater than twelve months were mortgage-backed securities.

13
 

The unrealized loss on the Company’s investments in mortgage-backed securities, obligations of states and political subdivisions, and corporate bonds, is primarily driven by interest rates. Because the decline in market value is attributable to a change in interest rates and not credit quality, and because the Company has the ability and intent to hold these investments until recovery of fair value, which may be until maturity, management does not consider these investments to be other-than-temporarily impaired.

 

The amortized cost and estimated fair values of investment securities at June 30, 2014 by contractual maturity are shown below (dollars in thousands).

   Available-for-Sale   Held-to-Maturity 
   Amortized
Cost
   Estimated
Fair
Value
   Amortized
Cost
   Estimated
Fair
Value
 
                 
Within one year  $240   $241           
After one year through five years   3,532    3,710           
After five years through ten years   12,134    12,891           
After ten years   11,396    11,975           
    27,302    28,817           
Investment securities not due at a single maturity date:                    
Mortgage-backed securities   246,459    251,032   $1,015   $1,087 
Corporate stock   54    137         
   $273,815   $279,986   $1,015   $1,087 

Expected maturities will differ from contractual maturities because the issuers of the securities may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties.

6. IMPAIRED AND NONPERFORMING LOANS AND LEASES AND OTHER REAL ESTATE OWNED

At June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the recorded investment in nonperforming loans and leases was approximately $1,506,000 and $1,979,000, respectively. Nonperforming loans and leases include all such loans and leases that are either placed on nonaccrual status or are 90 days past due as to principal or interest but still accrue interest because such loans are well-secured and in the process of collection. The Company considers a loan to be impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that it will be unable to collect all amounts due (principal and interest) according to the contractual terms of the original loan agreement. At June 30, 2014, the recorded investment in loans and leases that were considered to be impaired totaled $26,157,000, which includes $1,411,000 in nonaccrual loans and leases and $24,746,000 in performing loans and leases. Of the total impaired loans of $26,157,000, loans totaling $11,542,000 were deemed to require no specific reserve and loans totaling $14,615,000 were deemed to require a related valuation allowance of $1,541,000. At December 31, 2013, the recorded investment in loans and leases that were considered to be impaired totaled $27,034,000 and had a related valuation allowance of $1,598,000. If interest had been accruing on the nonperforming loans, such income would have approximated $15,000 and $109,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and approximated $54,000 and $168,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

At June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the recorded investment in other real estate owned (“OREO”) was $6,864,000 and $6,621,000, respectively. For the three months ended March 31, 2014, the Company sold two parcels of land in El Dorado County that abutted an existing OREO property for a $106,000 net gain without any adjustment required to the value of the existing OREO property. The Company continues to own the OREO office building and land upon which the building is located but no longer owns the adjoining land. For the three months ended June 30, 2014, the Company added a single property with an OREO value of $243,000.

 

The Company periodically obtains property valuations to determine whether the recorded book value is considered fair value. During the second quarter of 2014, this valuation process did not result in the Company adjusting any book values. 

 

The June 30, 2014 OREO balance of $6,864,000 consists of ten properties including four commercial real estate properties in the total amount of $3,988,000, four commercial land properties in the total amount of $1,729,000 and two residential land properties in the total amount of $1,147,000.

14
 

Nonperforming loans and leases and OREO at June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 are summarized as follows:

(in thousands)  June 30,
2014
   December 31,
2013
 
         
Nonaccrual loans and leases that are current to terms (less than 30 days past due)  $651   $379 
Nonaccrual loans and leases that are past due   855    1,520 
Loans and leases past due 90 days and accruing interest       80 
Other assets   878    878 
Other real estate owned   6,864    6,621 
Total nonperforming assets  $9,248   $9,478 
           
Nonperforming loans and leases to total loans and leases   0.60%   0.77%
Total nonperforming assets to total assets   1.55%   1.60%

Impaired loans and leases as of and for the periods ended June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 are summarized as follows:

(in thousands)  As of June 30, 2014   As of December 31, 2013 
  

 

Recorded

Investment

  

Unpaid Principal

Balance

  

 

Related

Allowance

  

 

Recorded

Investment

  

Unpaid Principal

Balance

  

 

Related

Allowance

 
With no related allowance recorded:                              
                               
Commercial   $493   $493   $   $577   $577   $ 
Real estate-commercial   10,771    10,969        10,921    11,119     
Real estate-construction   241    241        248    248     
Consumer   37    37        37    37     
Subtotal  $11,542   $11,740   $   $11,783   $11,981   $ 
                               
With an allowance recorded:                              
                               
Commercial   $943   $943   $260   $1,159   $1,159   $392 
Real estate-commercial   8,635    8,635    761    8,998    8,998    792 
Real estate-multi-family   1,634    1,727    177    1,650    1,743    108 
Real estate-residential   2,892    2,892    305    3,316    3,316    276 
Agriculture   386    386    16             
Consumer   125    125    22    128    128    30 
Subtotal  $14,615   $14,708   $1,541   $15,251   $15,344   $1,598 
                               
Total:                              
                               
Commercial   $1,436   $1,436   $260   $1,736   $1,736   $392 
Real estate-commercial   19,406    19,604    761    19,919    20,117    792 
Real estate-multi-family   1,634    1,727    177    1,650    1,743    108 
Real estate-construction   241    241        248    248     
Real estate-residential   2,892    2,892    305    3,316    3,316    276 
Agriculture   386    386    16             
Consumer   162    162    22    165    165    30 
   $26,157   $26,448   $1,541   $27,034   $27,325   $1,598 

15
 

The following table presents the average balance related to impaired loans and leases for the periods indicated (in thousands):

 

   Average Recorded Investments
for the three months ended
   Average Recorded Investments
for the six months ended
 
   June 30, 2014   June 30, 2013   June 30, 2014   June 30, 2013 
                 
Commercial   $1,610   $2,388   $1,517   $2,339 
Real estate-commercial   19,218    15,877    19,029    14,146 
Real estate-multi-family   1,644    1,675    1,642    1,673 
Real estate-construction   246    260    245    259 
Real estate-residential   2,912    2,403    2,908    2,400 
Agriculture   194        389     
Consumer   164    210    164    175 
     Total  $25,988   $22,813   $25,894   $20,992 

The following table presents the interest income recognized on impaired loans and leases for the periods indicated (in thousands):

   Interest Income Recognized
for the three months ended
   Interest Income Recognized
for the six months ended
 
   June 30, 2014   June 30, 2013   June 30, 2014   June 30, 2013 
                 
Commercial   $9   $16   $22   $32 
Real estate-commercial   237    85    484    293 
Real estate-multi-family   19    20    38    39 
Real estate-construction   3    4    6    7 
Real estate-residential   29    29    67    52 
Agriculture   10        10     
Consumer       1    2    2 
     Total  $307   $155   $629   $425 

 

7. TROUBLED DEBT RESTRUCTURINGS

At June 30, 2014, there were 15 loans and leases that were considered to be troubled debt restructurings. Of these loans and leases, 11 are currently performing (less than ninety days past due) totaling $13,898,000 and four are considered nonperforming (and included in the $1,506,000 discussed in Note 6), totaling $756,000. Of the four TDRs considered nonperforming, two are current to the modified terms. At June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, there were no unfunded commitments on those loans considered troubled debt restructures. See also “Impaired Loans and Leases” in “Item 2 - Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”

The Company has allocated $828,000 and $817,000 of specific reserves to loans whose terms have been modified as troubled debt restructurings as of June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013.

 

During the six-month period ended June 30, 2014, the terms of five loans were modified as a troubled debt restructuring. The modifications of the terms of these loans were a line of credit converted to a term loan, extensions of the maturity date and/or interest rates lower than the original loan rate.

16
 

The following table presents loans by class modified as troubled debt restructurings during the three months ended June 30, 2014 (dollars in thousands): 

 

       Pre-   Post- 
       Modification   Modification 
       Outstanding   Outstanding 
   Number   Recorded   Recorded 
   of Loans   Investment   Investment 
             
Troubled debt restructurings:               
Real estate – commercial   1   $213   $213 
Consumer   1    46    46 
Total   2   $259   $259 

 

The following table presents loans by class modified as troubled debt restructurings during the six months ended June 30, 2014 (dollars in thousands): 

 

       Pre-   Post- 
       Modification   Modification 
       Outstanding   Outstanding 
   Number   Recorded   Recorded 
   of Loans   Investment   Investment 
             
Troubled debt restructurings:               
Real estate –  commercial   5   $5,109   $5,109 
Consumer   1    46    46 
Total   6   $5,155   $5,155 

 

The troubled debt restructurings described above increased the allowance for loan and lease losses by $151,000 and resulted in no charge-offs during the six months ended June 30, 2014.  

 

The following table presents loans by class modified as troubled debt restructurings during the three months ended June 30, 2013 (dollars in thousands):

 

       Pre-   Post- 
       Modification   Modification 
       Outstanding   Outstanding 
   Number   Recorded   Recorded 
   of Loans   Investment   Investment 
             
Troubled debt restructurings:               
Real estate – commercial   3   $762   $722 
Total   3   $762   $722 

 

The following table presents loans by class modified as troubled debt restructurings during the six months ended June 30, 2013 (dollars in thousands):

 

       Pre-   Post- 
       Modification   Modification 
       Outstanding   Outstanding 
   Number   Recorded   Recorded 
   of Loans   Investment   Investment 
             
Troubled debt restructurings:               
Real estate – commercial   4   $1,200   $1,160 
Total   4   $1,200   $1,160 

 

The troubled debt restructurings described above increased the allowance for loan and lease losses by $100,000 and resulted in charge-offs of $40,000 during the six months ended June 30, 2013.

17
 

The following table presents loans by class modified as troubled debt restructurings for which there was a payment default within twelve months following the modification during the period indicated (dollars in thousands):

 

Six months ended June 30, 2013  Number   Recorded 
   of Loans   Investment 
Troubled debt restructurings that subsequently defaulted:          
Commercial   1   $513 
           
Total   1   $513 

There were no payment defaults on troubled debt restructurings within 12 months following the modification for the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2014, as well as for the three-month period ending June 30, 2013.

18
 

8. ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN AND LEASE LOSSES

 

The Company’s loan and lease portfolio allocated by management’s internal risk ratings as of June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 are summarized below:

 

June 30, 2014  Credit Risk Profile by Internally Assigned Grade 
(dollars in thousands)      Real Estate 
   Commercial   Commercial   Multi-family   Construction   Residential 
Grade:                         
   Pass  $19,178   $150,193   $8,169   $2,093   $9,364 
   Watch   1,339    12,025    1,143    3,260    3,788 
   Special mention   362    19,473    411    574    1,329 
   Substandard   3,899    3,683    501        2,114 
   Doubtful                    
          Total  $24,778   $185,374   $10,224   $5,927   $16,595 
                 
           Credit Risk Profile by Internally Assigned Grade
Other Credit Exposure
     
           Leases   Agriculture   Consumer   Total 
Grade:                            
   Pass          $1,262   $2,576   $4,835   $197,670 
   Watch                   44    21,599 
   Special mention                386    83    22,618 
   Substandard                   147    10,344 
   Doubtful                        
          Total          $1,262   $2,962   $5,109   $252,231 
     
December 31, 2013  Credit Risk Profile by Internally Assigned Grade 
(dollars in thousands)      Real Estate 
   Commercial   Commercial   Multi-family   Construction   Residential 
Grade:                         
   Pass  $20,728   $147,995   $9,509   $5,778   $11,706 
   Watch   1,556    12,567    1,156    3,270    2,530 
   Special mention   491    19,253    420    585    1,281 
   Substandard   1,770    4,389            2,186 
   Doubtful                    
          Total  $24,545   $184,204   $11,085   $9,633   $17,703 
                 
           Credit Risk Profile by Internally Assigned Grade
Other Credit Exposure
     
           Leases   Agriculture   Consumer   Total 
Grade:                            
   Pass          $1,344   $2,728   $5,486   $205,274 
   Watch                   21    21,100 
   Special mention               392    111    22,533 
   Substandard                   154    8,499 
   Doubtful                        
          Total          $1,344   $3,120   $5,772   $257,406 

19
 

The allocation of the Company’s allowance for loan and lease losses and by portfolio segment and by impairment methodology are summarized below:

June 30, 2014                                        
(dollars in thousands)      Real Estate      Other         
   Commercial   Commercial   Multi-Family   Construction   Residential   Leases   Agriculture   Consumer   Unallocated   Total 
                                         
Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses                                                  
                                                   
Beginning balance, January 1, 2014  $885   $2,401   $242   $542   $825   $4   $80   $161   $206   $5,346 
Provision for loan losses   365    (291)   20    (103)   (122)   (5)   (11)   44    103     
Loans charged off                               (74)       (74)
Recoveries   141    39        2    5    3                190 
                                                   
Ending balance, June 30, 2014  $1,391   $2,149   $262   $441   $708   $2   $69   $131   $309   $5,462 
                                                   
Ending balance:                                                  
Individually evaluated for impairment  $260   $761   $177   $   $305   $   $16   $22   $   $1,541 
                                                   
Ending balance:                                                  
Collectively evaluated for impairment  $1,131   $1,388   $85   $441   $403   $2   $53   $109   $309   $3,921 
                                                   
Loans                                                  
                                                   
Ending balance  $24,778   $185,374   $10,224   $5,927   $16,595   $1,262   $2,962   $5,109   $   $252,231 
                                                   
Ending balance:                                                  
Individually evaluated for impairment  $1,436   $19,406   $1,634   $241   $2,892   $   $386   $162   $   $26,157 
                                                   
Ending balance:                                                  
Collectively evaluated for impairment  $23,342   $165,968   $8,590   $5,686   $13,703   $1,262   $2,576   $4,947   $   $226,074 
                                                   
Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses                                                  
                                                   
Beginning balance, March 31, 2014  $781   $2,476   $241   $485   $883   $3   $73   $156   $275   $5,373 
Provision for loan losses   489    (365)   21    (45)   (177)   (1)   (4)   48    34     
Loans charged off                               (73)       (73)
Recoveries   121    38        1    2                    162 
                                                   
Ending balance, June 30, 2014  $1,391   $2,149   $262   $441   $708   $2   $69   $131   $309   $5,462 
20
 
December 31, 2013                                        
(dollars in thousands)      Real Estate      Other         
   Commercial   Commercial   Multi-Family   Construction   Residential   Leases   Agriculture   Consumer   Unallocated   Total 
                                         
Ending balance:                                                   
Individually evaluated for impairment  $392   $792    $108   $   $276   $   $   $30   $   $1,598 
                                                    
Ending balance:                                                   
Collectively evaluated for impairment  $493   $1,609    $134   $542   $549   $4   $80   $131   $206   $3,748 
                                                    
Loans                                                   
                                                    
Ending balance  $24,545   $184,204    $11,085,   $9,633   $17,703   $1,344   $3,120   $5,772   $   $257,406 
                                                    
Ending balance:                                                   
Individually evaluated for impairment  $1,736   $19,919    $1,650,   $248   $3,316   $   $   $165   $   $27,034 
                                                    
Ending balance:                                                   
Collectively evaluated for impairment  $22,809   $164,285    $9,435,   $9,385   $14,387   $1,344   $3,120   $5,607   $   $230,372 
                                         
June 30, 2013                                        
(dollars in thousands)      Real Estate      Other         
   Commercial   Commercial   Multi-Family   Construction   Residential   Leases   Agriculture   Consumer   Unallocated   Total 
                                                    
Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses                                                   
                                                    
Beginning balance, January 1, 2013  $1,351   $2,526    $238   $594   $477   $3   $87   $262   $243   $5,781 
Provision for loan losses   (158)   402     9    (172)   115        4    (87)   87    200 
Loans charged off   (11)   (355)            (38)           (5)       (409)
Recoveries   97    11                                 108 
Ending balance, June 30, 2013  $1,279   $2,584    $247   $422   $554   $3   $91   $170   $330   $5,680 
                                                    
Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses                                                   
                                                    
Beginning balance, March 31, 2013  $1,331   $2,667    $256   $430   $501   $3   $91   $249   $375   $5,903 
Provision for loan losses   (74)   262     (9)   (8)   53            (79)   (45)   100 
Loans charged off   (1)   (355)                                (356)
Recoveries   23    10                                 33 
Ending balance, June 30, 2013  $1,279   $2,584    $247   $422   $554   $3   $91   $170   $330   $5,680 

21
 

The Company’s aging analysis of the loan and lease portfolio at June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 are summarized below:

 

June 30, 2014                               
(dollars in thousands)          Past Due               Greater Than     
   30-59 Days   60-89 Days   Greater Than   Total Past    Past Due       90 Days and     
   Past Due   Past Due   90 Days   Due   Current   Total Loans   Accruing   Nonaccrual 
Commercial:                                        
Commercial  $   $   $666   $666   $24,112   $24,778       $701 
Real estate:                                        
Commercial   845        145    990    184,384    185,374        654 
Multi-family                   10,224    10,224         
Construction                   5,927    5,927         
Residential                   16,595    16,595         
Other:                                        
Leases                   1,262    1,262         
Agriculture                   2,962    2,962         
Consumer   257            257    4,852    5,109        151 
Total  $1,102   $   $811   $1,913   $250,318   $252,231   $   $1,506 
                                
December 31, 2013                               
(dollars in thousands)          Past Due               Greater Than     
   30-59 Days   60-89 Days   Greater Than   Total Past    Past Due       90 Days and     
   Past Due   Past Due   90 Days   Due   Current   Total Loans   Accruing   Nonaccrual 
Commercial:                                        
Commercial  $   $   $798   $798   $23,747   $24,545       $766 
Real estate:                                        
Commercial   1,598    336    713    2,647    181,557    184,204    80    977 
Multi-family                   11,085    11,085         
Construction                   9,633    9,633         
Residential                   17,703    17,703         
Other:                                        
Leases                   1,344    1,344         
Agriculture                   3,120    3,120         
Consumer   25    1    90    116    5,656    5,772        156 
                                         
Total  $1,623   $337   $1,601   $3,561   $253,845   $257,406   $80   $1,899 
22
 

9. BORROWING ARRANGEMENTS

 

At June 30, 2014, the Company had $17,000,000 of unsecured short-term borrowing arrangements with two of its correspondent banks. There were no advances under the borrowing arrangements as of June 30, 2014 or December 31, 2013.

 

The Company has a line of credit available with the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco (the “FHLB”) which is secured by pledged mortgage loans and investment securities. Borrowings may include overnight advances as well as loans with terms of up to thirty years. Advances (both short-term and long-term) totaling $11,000,000 were outstanding from the FHLB at June 30, 2014, bearing interest rates ranging from 0.24% to 1.91% and maturing between March 16, 2015 and July 12, 2019. Advances totaling $16,000,000 were outstanding from the FHLB at December 31, 2013, bearing interest rates ranging from 1.19% to 2.73% and maturing between January 13, 2014 and July 12, 2019. Remaining amounts available under the borrowing arrangement with the FHLB at June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 totaled $69,941,000 and $56,230,000, respectively. In addition, the Company has a secured borrowing agreement with the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco. The borrowing can be secured by pledging selected loans and investment securities. Borrowings generally are short-term including overnight advances as well as loans with terms up to ninety days. Amounts available under this borrowing arrangement at June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 were $19,842,000 and $21,358,000, respectively. There were no advances outstanding under this borrowing arrangement as of June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013.

 

10. INCOME TAXES

 

The Company files its income taxes on a consolidated basis with its subsidiaries. The allocation of income tax expense (benefit) represents each entity’s proportionate share of the consolidated provision for (benefit from) income taxes.

The Company accounts for income taxes using the balance sheet method, under which deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the tax consequences of temporary differences between the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and their tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are adjusted for the effects of changes in tax laws and rates on the date of enactment. On the consolidated balance sheet, net deferred tax assets are included in accrued interest receivable and other assets.

The benefit of a tax position is recognized in the financial statements in the period during which, based on all available evidence, management believes it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination, including the resolution of appeals or litigation processes, if any.  Tax positions that meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold are measured as the largest amount of tax benefit that is more than 50 percent likely of being realized upon settlement with the applicable taxing authority. The portion of the benefits associated with tax positions taken that exceeds the amount measured as described above, if applicable, is reflected as a liability for unrecognized tax benefits in the accompanying balance sheet along with any associated interest and penalties that would be payable to the taxing authorities upon examination. The Company recognizes accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits, if applicable, as a component of interest expense in the consolidated statement of income. There have been no unrecognized tax benefits or accrued interest and penalties for the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2014 and 2013.

The combined federal and state effective tax rate for the quarter ended June 30, 2014 was 34.7%, an increase from 28.5% for the second quarter of 2013. For the six months ended June 30, 2014, the combined federal and state effective tax rate was 34.7% compared to 24.1% for the six months ended June 30, 2013. The higher combined federal and state effective tax rate in 2014 for the three-month and six-month periods resulted from higher pretax income in 2014 and significantly less benefits of Enterprise Zone credits on our State tax return as the program has been significantly reduced effective January 1, 2014. In addition, the 2013 tax provision benefited from the tax-free income related to the bank owned life insurance benefit.

23
 

11. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

The following tables present information about the Company’s assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring and nonrecurring basis as of June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013. They indicate the fair value hierarchy of the valuation techniques utilized by the Company to determine such fair value. In general, fair values determined by Level 1 inputs utilize quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has the ability to access. Fair values determined by Level 2 inputs utilize inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 2 inputs include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, and inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, such as interest rates and yield curves that are observable at commonly quoted intervals. Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability, and include situations where there is little, if any, market activity for the asset or liability. In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, the level in the fair value hierarchy within which the fair value measurement in its entirety falls has been determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The Company’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment and considers factors specific to the asset or liability.

 

Estimated fair values are disclosed for financial instruments for which it is practicable to estimate fair value. These estimates are made at a specific point in time based on relevant market data and information about the financial instruments. These estimates do not reflect any premium or discount that could result from offering the Company’s entire holdings of a particular financial instrument for sale at one time, nor do they attempt to estimate the value of anticipated future business related to the instruments. 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 any of these estimates.

 

The carrying amounts and estimated fair values of the Company’s financial instruments are as follows (dollars in thousands):

 

   Carrying   Fair Value Measurements Using: 
June 30, 2014  Amount   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Total 
                     
Financial assets:                         
Cash and due from banks  $19,107   $19,107             $19,107 
Interest-bearing deposits in banks   1,000        $1,003         1,003 
Available-for-sale securities   279,986    88    279,898         279,986 
Held-to-maturity securities   1,015         1,087         1,087 
FHLB stock   3,686    N/A    N/A    N/A    N/A 
Net loans and leases:   246,521             $249,738    249,738 
Accrued interest receivable   1,840         1,165    675    1,840 
                          
Financial liabilities:                         
Deposits:                         
Noninterest-bearing  $149,169   $149,169             $149,169 
Savings   53,546    53,546              53,546 
Money market   139,592    139,592              139,592 
NOW accounts   59,757    59,757              59,757 
Time, $100,000 or more   66,031        $66,659         66,659 
Other time   22,763         22,922         22,922 
Short-term borrowings   1,500    1,500              1,500 
Long-term borrowings   9,500         9,702         9,702 
Accrued interest payable   55         55         55 
24
 
   Carrying   Fair Value Measurements Using: 
December 31, 2013  Amount   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Total 
                     
Financial assets:                    
Cash and due from banks  $17,948   $17,948             $17,948 
Interest-bearing deposits in banks   1,000        $1,000         1,000 
Available-for-sale securities   272,791    70    272,721         272,791 
Held-to-maturity securities   1,185         1,263         1,263 
FHLB stock   3,248    N/A    N/A    N/A    N/A 
Net loans and leases:   251,747             $249,931    249,931 
Accrued interest receivable   1,930         1,170    760    1,930 
                          
Financial liabilities:                         
Deposits:                         
Noninterest-bearing  $145,516   $145,516             $145,516 
Savings   51,733    51,733              51,733 
Money market   135,169    135,169              135,169 
NOW accounts   59,042    59,042              59,042 
Time, $100,000 or more   68,990        $69,763         69,763 
Other time   23,240         23,426         23,426 
Short-term borrowings   8,000    8,000              8,000 
Long-term borrowings   8,000         8,110         8,110 
Accrued interest payable   125         125         125 

  

Because no market exists for a significant portion of the Company’s financial instruments, fair value estimates are based on judgments regarding current economic conditions, risk characteristics of various financial instruments and other factors. 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 fair values presented.

 

The following methods and assumptions were used by the Company to estimate the fair values of its financial instruments at June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013:

Cash and due from banks: The carrying amounts of cash and short-term instruments approximate fair values and are classified as Level 1.

Interest-bearing deposits in banks: The fair values of interest-bearing deposits in banks are estimated by discounting their future cash flows using rates at each reporting date for instruments with similar remaining maturities offered by comparable financial institutions and are classified as Level 2.

Investment securities: For investment securities, fair values are based on quoted market prices, where available, and are classified as Level 1. If quoted market prices are not available, fair values are estimated using quoted market prices for similar securities and indications of value provided by brokers and are classified as Level 2.

Loans and leases: Fair values of loans, excluding loans held for sale, are estimated as follows:  For variable rate loans that reprice frequently and with no significant change in credit risk, fair values are based on carrying values resulting in a Level 3 classification. Fair values for other loans are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses, using interest rates currently being offered for loans with similar terms to borrowers of similar credit quality also resulting in a Level 3 classification. The methods utilized to estimate the fair value of loans do not necessarily represent an exit price.

FHLB stock: It is not practicable to determine the fair value of FHLB stock due to restrictions placed on its transferability.

25
 

Deposits: The fair values disclosed for demand deposits (e.g., interest and non-interest checking, passbook savings, and certain types of money market accounts) are, by definition, equal to the amount payable on demand at the reporting date (i.e., their carrying amount) resulting in a Level 1 classification. For time deposits, the fair values for fixed rate certificates of deposit are estimated using a discounted cash flow methodology that applies market interest rates to a schedule of aggregated expected monthly maturities on time deposits resulting in a Level 2 classification.

Short-term and long-term borrowings: The fair value of short-term borrowings is estimated to be the carrying amount and is classified as Level 1. The fair value of long-term borrowings is estimated using a discounted cash flow analysis using interest rates currently available for similar debt instruments and are classified as Level 2.

Accrued interest receivable and payable: The carrying amount of accrued interest receivable approximates fair value resulting in a Level 3 classification and the carrying amount of accrued interest payable approximates fair value resulting in a Level 2 classification.

Off-balance sheet instruments: Fair values for off-balance sheet, credit-related financial instruments are based on fees currently charged to enter into similar agreements, taking into account the remaining terms of the agreements and the counterparties’ credit standing. The fair value of commitments was not material at June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013.

Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring and non-recurring basis along with any related gain or loss recognized in the income statement due to fair value changes are presented in the following table:

 

 Description      Fair Value Measurements Using   Total Gains 
(dollars in thousands)  Fair Value   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   (Losses) 
                     
June 30, 2014                         
Assets and liabilities measured on a recurring basis:                         
Available-for-sale securities:                         
Mortgage-backed securities  $251,032        $251,032           
Obligations of states and political subdivisions   27,187         27,187           
Corporate bonds   1,630         1,630           
Corporate stock   137   $88    49           
Total recurring  $279,986   $88   $279,898   $   $ 
                          
Assets and liabilities measured on a nonrecurring basis:                         
Impaired loans:                         
Commercial  $   $   $   $   $ 
Real estate:                         
Commercial   294            294     
Multi-family                    
Construction                    
Residential                    
Other:                         
Agriculture                    
Consumer                    
Other real estate owned   6,864            6,864    (106)
Total nonrecurring  $7,158   $   $   $7,158   $(106)
26
 
 Description      Fair Value Measurements Using   Total Gains 
(dollars in thousands)  Fair Value   Level 1   Level 2     Level 3   (Losses) 
                 
December 31, 2013                         
Assets and liabilities measured on a recurring basis:                         
Available-for-sale securities:                         
Mortgage-backed securities  $244,160   $   $244,160   $   $ 
Corporate Debt securities   1,609        1,609           
Obligations of states and political subdivisions   26,903        26,903         
Corporate stock   119    70    49         
Total recurring  $272,791   $70   $272,721   $   $ 
                          
Assets and liabilities measured on a nonrecurring basis:                         
Impaired loans:                         
Real estate:                         
Commercial  $306   $   $   $306   $6 
Other real estate owned   6,621            6,621    (250)
Total nonrecurring  $6,927   $   $   $6,927   $(244)

 

There were no significant transfers between Levels 1 and 2 during the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2014 or the twelve months ended December 31, 2013.

 

The following methods were used to estimate the fair value of each class of financial instrument above:

Available-for-sale securitiesFair values for investment securities are based on quoted market prices, if available, and are considered as Level 1, or evaluated using pricing models that vary by asset class and incorporate available trade, bid and other market information and are considered as Level 2. Pricing applications apply available information, as applicable, through processes such as benchmark curves, benchmarking to like securities, sector groupings and matrix pricing.

 

Impaired loans – The fair value of collateral dependent impaired loans adjusted for specific allocations of the allowance for loan losses is generally based on recent real estate appraisals and/or evaluations. These appraisals and/or evaluations may utilize a single valuation approach or a combination of approaches including comparable sales, cost and the income approach. Adjustments are routinely made in the appraisal process by the independent appraisers to adjust for differences between the comparable sales and income and other available data. Such adjustments are usually significant and typically result in a Level 3 classification of the inputs for determining fair value. The valuation technique used for all Level 3 nonrecurring loans consists of the appraised value less a reserve for past dues taxes and selling costs ranging from 8% to 10%.

 

Other real estate owned – Certain commercial and residential real estate properties classified as OREO are measured at fair value, less costs to sell. Fair values are based on real estate appraisals. These appraisals may use a single valuation approach or a combination of approaches including comparable sales, cost and the income approach. Adjustments are routinely made in the appraisal process by the independent appraisers to adjust for differences between the comparable sales and income and other available data. Such adjustments are usually significant and typically result in a Level 3 classification of the inputs for determining fair value. The valuation technique used for all Level 3 nonrecurring OREO consists of the appraised value less selling costs ranging from 8% to 10%.

27
 

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

The following is management’s discussion and analysis of the significant changes in American River Bankshares’ (the “Company”) balance sheet accounts between December 31, 2013 and June 30, 2014 and its income and expense accounts for the three-month and six-month periods ended June 30, 2014 and 2013. The discussion is designed to provide a better understanding of significant trends related to the Company’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, capital resources and interest rate sensitivity. This discussion and supporting tables and the consolidated financial statements and related notes appearing elsewhere in this report are unaudited. Interest income and net interest income are presented on a fully taxable equivalent basis (FTE) within management’s discussion and analysis. Certain matters discussed or incorporated by reference in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q including, but not limited to, matters described in “Item 2 - Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and subject to the safe-harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements may contain words related to future projections including, but not limited to, words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “would,” and variations of those words and similar words that are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ significantly from those projected. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, the following:

the duration of financial and economic instability and actions taken by the United States Congress and governmental agencies, including the United States Department of the Treasury, to deal with challenges to the U.S. financial system;
   
the risks presented by a continued economic recession, which could adversely affect credit quality, collateral values, including real estate collateral, investment values, liquidity and loan originations and loan portfolio delinquency rates;
   
variances in the actual versus projected growth in assets and return on assets;
   
potential continued or increasing loan and lease losses;
   
potential increasing levels of expenses associated with resolving nonperforming assets as well as regulatory changes;
   
changes in the interest rate environment including interest rates charged on loans, earned on securities investments and paid on deposits and other borrowed funds;
   
competitive effects;
   
potential declines in fee and other noninterest income earned associated with economic factors, as well as regulatory changes;
   
general economic conditions nationally, regionally, and within our operating markets could be less favorable than expected or could have a more direct and pronounced effect on us than expected and adversely affect our ability to continue internal growth at historical rates and maintain the quality of our earning assets;
   
changes in the regulatory environment including government intervention in the U.S. financial system;
   
changes in business conditions and inflation;
   
changes in securities markets, public debt markets, and other capital markets;
   
potential data processing and other operational systems failures or fraud;
   
potential decline in real estate values in our operating markets;
   
the effects of uncontrollable events such as terrorism, the threat of terrorism or the impact of the military conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq and the conduct of the war on terrorism by the United States and its allies, worsening financial and economic conditions, natural disasters, and disruption of power supplies and communications;
   
changes in accounting standards, tax laws or regulations and interpretations of such standards, laws or regulations;
   
projected business increases following any future strategic expansion could be lower than expected;
   
the goodwill we have recorded in connection with acquisitions could become impaired, which may have an adverse impact on our earnings;
   
the reputation of the financial services industry could experience further deterioration, which could adversely affect our ability to access markets for funding and to acquire and retain customers;
   
the efficiencies we may expect to receive from any investments in personnel and infrastructure may not be realized; and
   
downgrades in the credit rating of the United States by credit rating agencies.
28
 

The factors set forth under “Item 1A - Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013, and other cautionary statements and information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q should be carefully considered and understood as being applicable to all related forward-looking statements contained in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, when evaluating the business prospects of the Company and its subsidiaries.

Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance. By their nature, they involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. The future results and shareholder values may differ significantly from those expressed in these forward-looking statements. You are cautioned not to put undue reliance on any forward-looking statement. Any such statement speaks only as of the date of this report, and in the case of any documents that may be incorporated by reference, as of the date of those documents. We do not undertake any obligation to update or release any revisions to any forward-looking statements, to report any new information, future event or other circumstances after the date of this report or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law. However, your attention is directed to any further disclosures made on related subjects in our subsequent reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on Forms 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K.

Critical Accounting Policies

General

The Company’s financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). The financial information contained within our statements is, to a significant extent, financial information that is based on measures of the financial effects of transactions and events that have already occurred. In addition, GAAP itself may change from one previously acceptable method to another method. Although the economics of our transactions would be the same, the timing of events that would impact our transactions could change.

Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses

The allowance for loan and lease losses is an estimate of the probable incurred credit loss risk inherent in our loan and lease portfolio as of the balance sheet date. The allowance is based on two basic principles of accounting: (1) “Accounting for Contingencies,” which requires that losses be accrued when it is probable that a loss has occurred at the balance sheet date and such loss can be reasonably estimated; and (2) the “Receivables” topic, which requires that losses be accrued on impaired loans based on the differences between the value of collateral, present value of future cash flows or values that are observable in the secondary market and the loan or lease balance.

The allowance for loan and lease losses is determined based upon estimates that can and do change when the actual risk, loss events, or changes in other factors, occur. The analysis of the allowance uses an historical loss view as an indicator of future losses and as a result could differ from the actual losses incurred in the future. If the allowance for loan and lease losses falls below that deemed adequate (by reason of loan and lease growth, actual losses, the effect of changes in risk factors, or some combination of these), the Company has a strategy for supplementing the allowance for loan and lease losses, over the short-term. For further information regarding our allowance for loan and lease losses, see “Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses Activity” discussion later in this Item 2.

Stock-Based Compensation

The Company recognizes compensation expense over the vesting period in an amount equal to the fair value of all share-based payments which consist of stock options and restricted stock awarded to directors and employees. The fair value of each stock option award is estimated on the date of the award and amortized over the service period using a Black-Scholes-Merton based option valuation model that requires the use of assumptions.  Critical assumptions that affect the estimated fair value of each award include expected stock price volatility, dividend yields, option life and the risk-free interest rate.

29
 

Goodwill  

 Business combinations involving the Company’s acquisition of equity interests or net assets of another enterprise or the assumption of net liabilities in an acquisition of branches constituting a business may give rise to goodwill. Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquired entity over the net of the amounts assigned to assets acquired and liabilities assumed. The value of goodwill is ultimately derived from the Company’s ability to generate net earnings after the acquisition and is not deductible for tax purposes. A decline in net earnings could be indicative of a decline in the fair value of goodwill and result in impairment. For that reason, goodwill is assessed for impairment on an annual basis. Impairment exists when a reporting unit’s carrying value of goodwill exceeds its fair value. The most recent annual assessment was performed as of December 31, 2013, and at that time, the Company’s reporting unit had positive equity and the Company elected to perform a qualitative assessment to determine if it was more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit exceeded its carrying value, including goodwill. The qualitative assessment indicated that it was more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit exceeded its carrying value, resulting in no impairment.

Income Taxes 

The Company files its income taxes on a consolidated basis with its subsidiaries. The allocation of income tax expense (benefit) represents each entity’s proportionate share of the consolidated provision for (benefit from) income taxes.

The Company accounts for income taxes using the balance sheet method, under which deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the tax consequences of temporary differences between the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and their tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are adjusted for the effects of changes in tax laws and rates on the date of enactment. On the consolidated balance sheet, net deferred tax assets are included in accrued interest receivable and other assets.

The benefit of a tax position is recognized in the financial statements in the period during which, based on all available evidence, management believes it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination, including the resolution of appeals or litigation processes, if any.  Tax positions that meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold are measured as the largest amount of tax benefit that is more than 50 percent likely of being realized upon settlement with the applicable taxing authority. The portion of the benefits associated with tax positions taken that exceeds the amount measured as described above is, if applicable, reflected as a liability for unrecognized tax benefits in the accompanying balance sheet along with any associated interest and penalties that would be payable to the taxing authorities upon examination. The Company recognizes accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits, if applicable, as a component of interest expense in the consolidated statement of income. There were no unrecognized tax benefits or accrued interest and penalties at June 30, 2014 or 2013 or for the three-month and six-month periods then ended.

General Development of Business

The Company is a bank holding company registered under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended. The Company was incorporated under the laws of the State of California in 1995. As a bank holding company, the Company is authorized to engage in the activities permitted under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended, and regulations thereunder. Its principal office is located at 3100 Zinfandel Drive, Suite 450, Rancho Cordova, California 95670 and its telephone number is (916) 854-0123. The Company employed an equivalent of 103 full-time employees as of June 30, 2014.

The Company owns 100% of the issued and outstanding common shares of its banking subsidiary, American River Bank (the “Bank”), and American River Financial, a California corporation which has been inactive since its incorporation in 2003.

American River Bank was incorporated and commenced business in Fair Oaks, California, in 1983 and thereafter moved its headquarters to Sacramento, California in 1985. American River Bank operates five full service offices in Sacramento and Placer Counties including the main office located at 1545 River Park Drive, Suite 107, Sacramento and branch offices in Sacramento, Gold River, and Roseville; two full service offices in Sonoma County in Healdsburg and Santa Rosa; and three full service banking offices in Amador County in Jackson, Pioneer, and Ione.

In addition, American River Bank operates loan production offices in Santa Clara County, in the city of San Jose, and serves the Contra Costa and Alameda County markets through a loan production office in the city of Pleasanton.

30
 

In 2000, the Company acquired North Coast Bank as a separate bank subsidiary. North Coast Bank was incorporated and commenced business in 1990 as Windsor Oaks National Bank in Windsor, California. In 1997, the name was changed to North Coast Bank. Effective December 31, 2003, North Coast Bank was merged with and into American River Bank. On December 3, 2004, the Company acquired Bank of Amador located in Jackson, California. Bank of Amador was merged with and into American River Bank.

 

The Bank’s deposits are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the “FDIC”) up to applicable legal limits. On July 21, 2010, President Obama signed the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Dodd-Frank Act”). The Dodd-Frank Act includes a permanent increase to $250,000 as the maximum FDIC insurance limit per depositor retroactive to January 1, 2008 and the extension of unlimited FDIC insurance for noninterest-bearing transaction accounts effective December 31, 2010 through December 31, 2012. On November 9, 2010, the FDIC implemented a final rule to permanently increase the maximum insurance limit to $250,000 under the Dodd-Frank Act. The unlimited insurance coverage for noninterest bearing transaction accounts was not extended and terminated on December 31, 2012. The $250,000 maximum deposit insurance amount per depositor remains in effect.

 

American River Bank does not offer trust services or international banking services and does not plan to do so in the near future. American River Bank’s primary business is serving the commercial banking needs of small to mid-sized businesses within those counties listed above. American River Bank accepts checking and savings deposits, offers money market deposit accounts and certificates of deposit, makes secured and unsecured commercial, secured real estate, and other installment and term loans and offers other customary banking services. American River Bank also conducts lease financing for certain types of business equipment. American River Bank owns 100% of two inactive companies, ARBCO and American River Mortgage. ARBCO was formed in 1984 to conduct real estate development and has been inactive since 1995. American River Mortgage has been inactive since its formation in 1994. During 2014, the Company conducted no significant activities other than holding the shares of its subsidiaries. However, it is authorized, with the prior approval of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (the “Federal Reserve Board”), the Company’s principal regulator, to engage in a variety of activities which are deemed closely related to the business of banking. The common stock of the Company is registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and is listed and traded on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol “AMRB.”

 

Overview

 

The Company recorded net income of $1,035,000 for the quarter ended June 30, 2014, which was an increase of $383,000 compared to $652,000 reported for the same period of 2013. Diluted earnings per share for the second quarter of 2014 were $0.13 compared to $0.07 recorded in the second quarter of 2013. The return on average equity (“ROAE”) and the return on average assets (“ROAA”) for the second quarter of 2014 were 4.80% and 0.70%, respectively, as compared to 2.87% and 0.45%, respectively, for the same period in 2013.

 

Net income for the six months ended June 30, 2014 and 2013 was $2,041,000 and $1,274,000, respectively, with diluted earnings per share of $0.25 in 2014 and $0.14 in 2013. For the first six months of 2014, ROAE was 4.74% and ROAA was 0.69% compared to 2.79% and 0.44%, respectively, for the same period in 2013.

 

Total assets of the Company increased by $1,981,000 (0.3%) from $592,753,000 at December 31, 2013 to $594,734,000 at June 30, 2014. Net loans totaled $246,521,000 at June 30, 2014, down $5,226,000 (2.1%) from $251,747,000 at December 31, 2013. Deposit balances at June 30, 2014 totaled $490,858,000, up $7,168,000 (1.5%) from the $483,690,000 at December 31, 2013.

 

The Company ended the second quarter of 2014 with a leverage capital ratio of 11.7%, a Tier 1 capital ratio of 21.4%, and a total risk-based capital ratio of 22.7% compared to 11.9%, 22.0%, and 23.2%, respectively, at December 31, 2013. Table One below provides a summary of the components of net income for the periods indicated (See the “Results of Operations” section that follows for an explanation of the fluctuations in the individual components). 

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Table One: Components of Net Income         
(dollars in thousands)  For the three months ended
June 30,
   For the six months ended
June 30,
 
   2014   2013   2014   2013 
Interest income*  $5,137   $4,627   $10,199   $9,351 
Interest expense   (291)   (375)   (595)   (782)
Net interest income*   4,846    4,252    9,604    8,569 
Provision for loan and lease losses       (100)       (200)
Noninterest income   508    448    1,010    1,073 
Noninterest expense   (3,699)   (3,612)   (7,352)   (7,614)
Provision for income taxes   (550)   (260)   (1,085)   (405)
Tax equivalent adjustment   (70)   (76)   (136)   (149)
Net income  $1,035   $652   $2,041   $1,274 
                     
Average total assets  $595,828   $583,606   $596,063   $584,774 
Net income (annualized) as a percentage of average total assets   0.70%   0.45%   0.69%   0.44%

* Fully taxable equivalent basis (FTE)

 

Results of Operations

Net Interest Income and Net Interest Margin

Net interest income represents the excess of interest and fees earned on interest earning assets (loans and leases, securities, Federal funds sold and investments in time deposits) over the interest paid on interest-bearing deposits and borrowed funds. Net interest margin is net interest income expressed as a percentage of average earning assets. The Company’s net interest margin was 3.66% for the three months ended June 30, 2014, 3.41% for the three months ended June 30, 2013, 3.63% for the six months ended June 30, 2014 and 3.47% for the six months ended June 30, 2013.

The fully taxable equivalent interest income component for the second quarter of 2014 increased $510,000 (11.0%) to $5,137,000 compared to $4,627,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2013. The increase in the fully taxable equivalent interest income for the second quarter of 2014 compared to the same period in 2013 is broken down by rate (up $398,000) and volume (up $112,000). The rate increase primarily occurred in the investment portfolio which can be attributed to a slowdown in the mortgage refinance market. As mortgage refinancing slows it also reduces the principal prepayments that the Company receives on the mortgage backed securities, which reduces the premium amounts amortized on the bonds. A lower amount of amortized premium results in higher interest income. Investment securities added $393,000 in additional interest income related to rate. The average yield on investments increased from 1.79% from the second quarter of 2013 to 2.31% during the second quarter of 2014. The volume increase of $112,000 was also related to the investments. When compared to the second quarter of 2013, average investment balances were up $31,577,000 (12.7%) to $280,394,000 for the second quarter of 2014.

Total fully taxable equivalent interest income for the six months ended June 30, 2014 increased $848,000 (9.1%) to $10,199,000 compared to $9,351,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2013. The breakdown of the fully taxable equivalent interest income for the six months ended June 30, 2014 over the same period in 2013 resulted from an increase in rate (up $537,000) and an increase in volume (up $311,000). Average earning assets increased $36,454,000 (7.3%) during the first six months of 2014 as compared to the same period in 2013. During the six month periods, the Company also experienced an increase in interest income due to the rates on investments (up $788,000) but this was partially offset by a reduction in rates on loans. While average loan balances increased by $2,425,000 (1.0%) from $252,057,000 during 2013 to $254,497,000 during 2014, the Company did experience a drop in rates on these loans from 5.73% in 2013 to 5.53% in 2014. This decrease is caused by proceeds of principal pay downs and loan prepayments invested in loans yielding lower rates. The volume increase of $311,000 is primarily related to an increase in investment balances of $33,823,000 (13.8%) from $244,808,000 in 2013 to $278,631,000 in 2014.

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Interest expense was $94,000 (25.1%) lower in the second quarter of 2014 versus the prior year period, decreasing from $375,000 to $291,000. The average balances on interest bearing liabilities were $351,833,000 (or $6,666,000 and 1.9% higher) in the second quarter of 2014 compared to $345,167,000 the same quarter in 2013. The higher balances did not significantly impact the overall interest expense, as these higher balances occurred in the lower cost checking and savings products while the Company experienced decreases in the average balances of time deposits and other borrowings. The Company focused its marketing efforts on replacing higher cost time deposits and borrowings with lower cost checking, savings, and money market accounts. Average time deposit balances were $90,101,000 (down $6,546,000 or 6.8%) during the second quarter of 2014 compared to $96,647,000 during the second quarter of 2013 and average borrowings were $10,956,000 (down $6,214,000 or 36.2%) compared to $17,170,000 during the same time period in 2013. Average interest checking, money market, and savings accounts increased $19,426,000 (8.4%) from $231,350,000 in the second quarter of 2013 to $250,776,000 during the second quarter of 2014. Rates paid on interest bearing liabilities decreased 11 basis points from 0.44% to 0.33% for the second quarter of 2013 compared to the second quarter of 2014.

Interest expense was $595,000 in the six-month period ended June 30, 2014 (or $187,000 and 23.9% lower) compared to $782,000 in the prior year period. The average balances on interest-bearing liabilities were $351,549,000 (up $6,615,000 or 1.9% higher) in the six-month period ended June 30, 2014 compared $344,934,000 in the same period in 2013. Although the average balances where higher, the increases occurred in the lower cost checking and savings products while the Company experienced decreases in the average balances of time deposits and other borrowings. Average time deposit balances were $90,921,000 (down $5,960,000 or 6.2%) during the first half of 2014 compared to $96,881,000 during the first half of 2013 and average borrowings were $11,481,000 (down $6,102,000 or 34.7%) in the first half of 2014 from $17,583,000 during the same time period in 2013. Average interest checking, money market, and savings accounts increased $18,677,000 (8.1%) from $230,470,000 in the first half of 2013 to $249,147,000 during the first half of 2014. Rates paid on interest bearing liabilities decreased 12 basis points from 0.46% in the first half of 2013 to 0.34% for the first half of 2013.

Table Two, Analysis of Net Interest Margin on Earning Assets, and Table Three, Analysis of Volume and Rate Changes on Net Interest Income and Expenses, are provided to enable the reader to understand the components and trends of the Company’s interest income and expenses. Table Two provides an analysis of net interest margin on earning assets setting forth average assets, liabilities and shareholders’ equity; interest income earned and interest expense paid and average rates earned and paid; and the net interest margin on earning assets. Table Three sets forth a summary of the changes in interest income and interest expense from changes in average asset and liability balances (volume) and changes in average interest rates.

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Table Two: Analysis of Net Interest Margin on Earning Assets     
Three Months Ended June 30,  2014   2013 
(Taxable Equivalent Basis)
(dollars in thousands)
 

Avg

Balance

  

 

Interest

  

Avg

Yield (4)

  

Avg

Balance

  

 

Interest

  

Avg

Yield (4)

 
Assets                              
Earning assets:                              
  Loans and leases (1)  $250,190   $3,520    5.64%  $250,200   $3,516    5.65%
  Taxable investment Securities   253,204    1,340    2.12%   219,057    805    1.48%
  Tax-exempt investment securities (2)   27,102    270    4.00%   29,720    295    3.99%
  Corporate stock (2)   88    6    27.35%   40    11    110.60%
  Federal funds sold                        
  Investments in time deposits   1,000    1    0.40%   838         
Total earning assets   531,584    5,137    3.88%   499,855    4,627    3.72%
Cash & due from banks   27,904              41,613           
Other assets   41,864              48,115           
Allowance for loan & lease losses   (5,524)             (5,977)          
   $595,828             $583,606           
                               
Liabilities & Shareholders’ Equity                              
Interest bearing liabilities:                              
  Interest checking and money market  $197,753    104    0.21%  $180,993    120    0.27%
  Savings   53,023    9    0.07%   50,357    18    0.14%
  Time deposits   90,101    141    0.63%   96,647    163    0.68%
  Other borrowings   10,956    37    1.35%   17,170    74    1.73%
Total interest bearing liabilities   351,833    291    0.33%   345,167    375    0.44%
Noninterest bearing demand deposits   151,058              141,661           
Other liabilities   6,406              5,671           
Total liabilities   509,297              492,499           
Shareholders’ equity   86,531              91,107           
   $595,828             $583,606           
Net interest income & margin (3)       $4,846    3.66%       $4,252    3.41%

 

(1) Loan interest includes loan fees of $190,000 and $14,000, respectively, during the three months ended June 30, 2014 and June 30, 2013.  Average loan balances include non-performing loans.
   
(2) Includes taxable-equivalent adjustments that primarily relate to income on certain securities that is exempt from federal income taxes. The effective federal statutory tax rate was 34% for 2014 and 2013.
   
(3) Net interest margin is computed by dividing net interest income by total average earning assets.
   
(4) Average yield is calculated based on actual days in the period (91 days) and annualized to actual days in the year (365 days).
34
 
         
Six Months Ended June 30,  2014   2013 
(Taxable Equivalent Basis)
(dollars in thousands)
 

Avg

Balance

  

 

Interest

  

Avg

Yield (4)

  

Avg

Balance

  

 

Interest

  

Avg

Yield (4)

 
Assets                              
Earning assets:                              
  Loans and leases (1)  $254,497   $6,975    5.53%  $252,072   $7,158    5.73%
  Taxable investment Securities   251,413    2,678    2.15%   215,122    1,593    1.49%
  Tax-exempt investment securities (2)   27,131    537    3.99%   29,658    588    4.00%
  Corporate stock (2)   87    7    16.23%   28    11    79.22%
  Federal funds sold                        
  Interest-bearing deposits in banks   1,000    2    0.40%   794    1    0.25%
Total earning assets   534,128    10,199    3.85%   497,674    9,351    3.79%
Cash & due from banks   24,784              43,563           
Other assets   42,643              49,456           
Allowance for loan & lease losses   (5,492)             (5,919)          
   $596,063             $584,774           
                               
Liabilities & Shareholders’ Equity                              
Interest-bearing liabilities:                              
  Interest checking and money market  $196,152    209    0.21%  $179,652    248    0.28%
  Savings   52,995    21    0.08%   50,818    42    0.17%
  Time deposits   90,921    286    0.63%   96,881    342    0.71%
  Other borrowings   11,481    79    1.39%   17,583    150    1.72%
Total interest-bearing liabilities   351,549    595    0.34%   344,934    782    0.46%
Noninterest-bearing demand deposits   151,368              141,712           
Other liabilities   6,405              5,936           
Total liabilities   509,322              492,582           
Shareholders’ equity   86,741              92,192           
   $596,063             $584,774           
Net interest income & margin (3)       $9,604    3.63%       $8,569    3.47%

 

(1) Loan interest includes loan fees of $246,000 and $74,000, respectively, during the six months ended June 30, 2014 and June 30, 2013.   Average loan balances include non-performing loans.
   
(2) Includes taxable-equivalent adjustments that primarily relate to income on certain securities that is exempt from federal income taxes. The effective federal statutory tax rate was 34% for 2014 and 2013.
   
(3) Net interest margin is computed by dividing net interest income by total average earning assets.
   
(4) Average yield is calculated based on actual days in the period (181 days) and annualized to actual days in the year (365 days).
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Table Three:  Analysis of Volume and Rate Changes on Net Interest Income and Expenses  
Three Months Ended June 30, 2014 over 2013 (dollars in thousands)
Increase (decrease) due to change in:            
             
Interest-earning assets:  Volume   Rate (4)   Net Change 
   Net loans (1)(2)  $   $4   $4 
   Taxable investment securities   125    410    535 
   Tax exempt investment securities (3)   (26)   1    (25)
   Corporate stock   13    (18)   (5)
   Federal funds sold            
   Interest-bearing deposits in banks       1    1 
     Total   112    398    510 
Interest-bearing liabilities:               
   Interest checking and money market   11    (27)   (16)
   Savings deposits   1    (10)   (9)
   Time deposits   (11)   (11)   (22)
   Other borrowings   (27)   (10)   (37)
     Total   (26)   (58)   (84)
Interest differential  $138   $456   $594 
          
Six Months Ended June 30, 2014 over 2013 (dollars in thousands)
Increase (decrease) due to change in:
               
                
Interest-earning assets:  Volume   Rate (4)   Net Change 
   Net loans (1)(2)  $69   $(252)  $(183)
   Taxable investment securities   269    816    1,085 
   Tax exempt investment securities (3)   (50)   (1)   (51)
   Corporate stock   23    (27)   (4)
   Federal funds sold            
   Interest-bearing deposits in banks       1    1 
     Total   311    537    848 
Interest-bearing liabilities:               
   Interest checking and money market   23    (62)   (39)
   Savings deposits   2    (23)   (21)
   Time deposits   (21)   (35)   (56)
   Other borrowings   (52)   (19)   (71)
     Total   (48)   (139)   (187)
Interest differential  $359   $676   $1,035 
                

 

(1) The average balance of non-accruing loans is immaterial as a percentage of total loans and, as such, has been included in net loans.
   
(2) Loan fees of $190,000 and $14,000, respectively, during the three months ended June 30, 2014 and June 30, 2013, and loan fees of $246,000 and $74,000, respectively, during the six months ended June 30, 2014 and June 30, 2013, have been included in the interest income computation.
   
(3) Includes taxable-equivalent adjustments that primarily relate to income on certain securities that is exempt from federal income taxes.  The effective federal statutory tax rate was 34% for 2014 and 2013.
   
(4) The rate/volume variance has been included in the rate variance.

Provision for Loan and Lease Losses

The Company did not provide any provision for loan and lease losses for the second quarter of 2014 as compared to $100,000 for the second quarter of 2013. The Company experienced net loan and lease recoveries of $89,000 or (0.14%) (on an annualized basis) of average loans and leases for the three months ended June 30, 2014 compared to net loan and lease losses of $323,000 or 0.52% (on an annualized basis) of average loans and leases for the three months ended June 30, 2013. For the first six months of 2014, the Company did not make any provisions for loan and lease losses and net loan and lease recoveries were $116,000 or (0.09%) (on an annualized basis) of average loans and leases outstanding. This compares to provisions for loan and lease losses of $200,000 and net loan and lease losses of $301,000 for the first six months of 2013 or 0.24% (on an annualized basis) of average loans and leases outstanding. The Company continued to experience an overall improvement in the credit quality of the loan and lease portfolio and a reduction of credit losses. For additional information see the “Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses Activity.”

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Noninterest Income

Table Four below provides a summary of the components of noninterest income for the periods indicated (dollars in thousands):

Table Four: Components of Noninterest Income 

  

Three Months
Ended

June 30,      

  

Six Months
Ended

June 30,     

 
   2014   2013   2014   2013 
Service charges on deposit accounts  $149   $147   $305   $298 
Gain on sale/call of securities   17    3    17    3 
Merchant fee income   107    111    209    218 
Bank owned life insurance   64    51    129    241 
Income from OREO properties   105    71    212    163 
Other   66    65    138    150 
           Total noninterest income  $508   $448   $1,010   $1,073 

 

Noninterest income increased $60,000 (13.3%) to $508,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2014 compared to $448,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2013. The increase from the second quarter of 2013 to the second quarter of 2014 was primarily related to an increase in income from OREO properties from $71,000 in the second quarter of 2013 to $105,000 in 2014, and an increase in gain on sale of securities from $3,000 in 2013 to $17,000 in 2014. The increase in OREO income results from higher rents received from foreclosed office buildings due to increased occupancy and an additional rental property. For the six months ended June 30, 2014, noninterest income decreased $63,000 (5.9%) to $1,010,000. The decrease from the first six months of 2013 compared to the same period in 2014 was primarily related to proceeds of a life insurance policy on a former director, resulting in tax-free income of $118,000 in the first quarter of 2013. The partial offset to this decrease was in rental income from OREO properties which increased from $163,000 in 2013 to $212,000 in 2014.

 

Noninterest Expense

 

Noninterest expense increased $87,000 (2.4%) to $3,699,000 in the second quarter of 2014 compared to $3,612,000 in the second quarter of 2013. Salary and employee benefits expense decreased $85,000 (2.7%) from $2,175,000 during the second quarter of 2013 to $2,117,000 during the second quarter of 2014. The decrease in salaries and benefits resulted from a lower number of full-time equivalent employees (“FTE”). Average FTE decreased from 109 during the second quarter of 2013 to 103 during the second quarter of 2014. From the second quarter of 2013, to the second quarter of 2014, occupancy expense decreased $5,000 and furniture and equipment expense decreased $3,000. FDIC assessments increased from a credit balance of $16,000 in the second quarter of 2013 to $91,000 during the second quarter of 2014. The change in the FDIC assessments relates to an adjustment to the accrual in 2013 based upon an internal analysis which significantly lowered the 2013 expense. OREO related expenses decreased $72,000 (36.9%) during the second quarter of 2014 to $123,000, from $195,000 in the second quarter of 2013. The primary reason for the decrease in OREO related expenses resulted from a lower amount of property valuation adjustments. In the second quarter of 2013 updated appraisals were received requiring write-downs of $95,000 and in the second quarter of 2014 there were no write-downs required. Other expenses increased $118,000 (15.4%) to $884,000 in the second quarter of 2014 compared to $766,000 in the second quarter of 2013. The primary increase in other expenses relates to higher legal expense which increased from $43,000 in the second quarter of 2013 to $155,000 in the second quarter of 2014. The increase in legal expense was primarily the result of the resolution of issues associated with a former OREO property. The fully taxable equivalent efficiency ratio for the second quarter of 2014 decreased to 69.1% from 76.9% for the second quarter of 2013.

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Noninterest expense for the six-month period ended June 30, 2014 was $7,352,000 versus $7,614,000 for the same period in 2013 for a decrease of $262,000 (3.4%). Salaries and benefits expense decreased $156,000 (3.6%) from $4,393,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2013 to $4,237,000 for the same period in 2014. Average FTE decreased from 111 during the first six months of 2013 to 102 during the same period in 2014. Occupancy expense increased $1,000 and furniture and equipment expense decreased $19,000. FDIC assessments increased $84,000 (76.4%) during 2014 to $194,000, from $110,000 in 2013. The increase results from the adjustment in 2013, as described above. OREO related expenses decreased $378,000 (75.6%) during 2014 to $122,000, from $500,000 in 2013. The decrease in OREO related expenses resulted from a lower amount of property valuation adjustments in 2014, as well as a sale of property in the first quarter of 2014 that resulted in a gain of $106,000. The $106,000 gain on sale is accounted for as a reduction in OREO expenses in 2014. Other expenses increased $206,000 (12.7%) from $1,624,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2013 to $1,830,000 for the same period in 2014. The increase in other expenses results from higher legal expenses in 2014. Legal expenses increased from $99,000 during the first six months of 2013 to $319,000 during the same period in 2014. This increase is primarily related to problem loan credits and the resolution of issues associated with a former OREO property.

The overhead efficiency ratio (fully taxable equivalent), excluding the amortization of intangible assets, for the first six months of 2014 was 69.3% as compared to 79.0% in the same period of 2013.

Provision for Income Taxes 

Federal and state income taxes for the quarter ended June 30, 2014 increased by $290,000 from $260,000 in the second quarter of 2013 to $550,000 in the second quarter of 2014. The combined federal and state effective tax rate for the quarter ended June 30, 2014 was 34.7%, an increase from 28.5% for the second quarter of 2013. For the six months ended June 30, 2014, the provision for income taxes was $1,085,000 with a combined federal and state effective tax rate of 34.7%, compared to a provision of $405,000 and a combined federal and state effective tax rate of 24.1% for the six months ended June 30, 2013. The higher level of income taxes and effective tax rate in 2014 resulted from the Company realizing significantly less benefits of Enterprise Zone credits on our State tax return as the program has been significantly reduced, an increase in taxable income in 2014, and 2013 included tax-free income related to the life insurance benefit as discussed above.

Balance Sheet Analysis 

The Company’s total assets were $594,734,000 at June 30, 2014 compared to $592,753,000 at December 31, 2013, representing an increase of $1,981,000 (0.3%). The average assets for the three months ended June 30, 2014 were $595,828,000, which represents an increase of $12,222,000 or 2.1% over the balance of $583,606,000 during the three-month period ended June 30, 2013. The average assets for the six months ended June 30, 2014 were $596,063,000, which represents an increase of $11,289,000 or 1.9% from the average balance of $584,774,000 during the six-month period ended June 30, 2013.

Investment Securities

The Company classifies its investment securities as available-for-sale or held-to-maturity. The Company’s intent is to hold all securities classified as held-to-maturity until maturity and management believes that it has the ability to do so. Securities available-for-sale may be sold to implement asset/liability management strategies and in response to changes in interest rates, prepayment rates and similar factors. Table Five below summarizes the values of the Company’s investment securities held on June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013.

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Table Five: Investment Securities Composition        
(dollars in thousands)        
Available-for-sale (at fair value)  June 30, 2014   December 31, 2013 
Debt securities:          
           
Mortgage-backed securities  $251,032       $244,160 
Obligations of states and political subdivisions   27,187    26,903 
Corporate bonds   1,630    1,609 
Corporate stock   137    119 
Total available-for-sale investment securities  $279,986   $272,791 
Held-to-maturity (at amortized cost)          
Debt securities:          
Mortgage-backed securities  $1,015   $1,185 
Total held-to-maturity investment securities  $1,015   $1,185 

 

Net unrealized gains on available-for-sale investment securities totaling $6,171,000 were recorded, net of $2,468,000 in tax liabilities, as accumulated other comprehensive income within shareholders’ equity at June 30, 2014 and net unrealized gains on available-for-sale investment securities totaling $1,872,000 were recorded, net of $748,000 in tax liabilities, as accumulated other comprehensive income within shareholders’ equity at December 31, 2013.

Management periodically evaluates each investment security in a loss position for other than temporary impairment relying primarily on industry analyst reports, observation of market conditions and interest rate fluctuations. Management has the ability and intent to hold securities with established maturity dates until recovery of fair value, which may be until maturity, and believes it will be able to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms for all of the underlying investment securities; therefore, management does not consider these investments to be other-than-temporarily impaired.

Loans and Leases

The Company’s historical lending activities have been in the following principal areas: (1) commercial; (2) commercial real estate; (3) multi-family real estate; (4) real estate construction (both commercial and residential); (5) residential real estate; (6) lease financing receivable; (7) agriculture; and (8) consumer loans. The Company’s continuing focus in our market area, new borrowers developed through the Company’s marketing efforts, and credit extensions expanded to existing borrowers resulted in the Company originating $31 million in new loans during the first half of 2014. Normal and unexpected pay downs and one loan transferred to OREO resulted in a net decrease in total loans and leases of $5.2 million (2.0%) from December 31, 2013. The markets in which the Company operates are seeing marginal new loan volume, but existing borrowers continue to pay down debt and delay expansion plans. Table Six below summarizes the composition of the loan portfolio as of June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013. 

Table Six: Loan and Lease Portfolio Composition

(dollars in thousands)  June 30, 2014   December 31, 2013   Change in    Percentage 
   $   %   $   %   dollars   change 
Commercial  $24,778    11%  $24,545    9%  $233    1.0%
Real estate                              
Commercial   185,374    71%   184,204    72%   1,170    0.7%
Multi-family   10,224    4%   11,085    4%   (861)   (7.8%)
Construction   5,927    3%   9,633    4%   (3,706)   (38.5%)
Residential   16,595    7%   17,703    7%   (1,108)   (6.3%)
Lease financing receivable   1,262    0%   1,344    1%   (82)   (6.1%)
Agriculture   2,962    1%   3,120    1%   (158)   (5.1%)
Consumer   5,109    3%   5,772    2%   (663)   (11.5%)
Total loans and leases   252,231    100%   257,406    100%   (5,175)   (2.0%)
Deferred loan and lease fees, net   (248)        (313)        65      
Allowance for loan and lease losses   (5,462)        (5,346)        (116)     
Total net loans and leases  $246,521        $251,747        $(5,226)   (2.1%)
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A significant portion of the Company’s loans and leases are direct loans and leases made to individuals and local businesses. The Company relies substantially on local promotional activity and personal contacts by American River Bank officers, directors and employees to compete with other financial institutions. The Company makes loans and leases to borrowers whose applications include a sound purpose and a viable primary repayment source, generally supported by a secondary source of repayment. 

Commercial loans consist of credit lines for operating needs, loans for equipment purchases, working capital, and various other business loan products. Consumer loans include a range of traditional consumer loan products such as personal lines of credit and homeowner equity lines of credit and loans to finance purchases of autos, boats, recreational vehicles, mobile homes and various other consumer items. Construction loans are generally comprised of commitments to customers within the Company’s service area for construction of commercial properties, multi-family properties and custom and semi-custom single-family residences. Other real estate loans consist primarily of loans secured by first trust deeds on commercial, multi-family, and residential properties typically with maturities from 3 to 10 years and original loan-to-value ratios generally from 65% to 75%. Agriculture loans consist primarily of vineyard loans and development loans to plant vineyards. In general, except in the case of loans under SBA programs or Farm Services Agency guarantees, the Company does not make long-term mortgage loans. 

“Subprime” real estate loans generally refer to residential mortgages made to higher-risk borrowers with lower credit and/or income histories. Within the banking industry, many of these loans were originated with adjustable interest rates that reset upward after an introductory period. These “subprime” loans coupled with declines in housing prices led to an increase in default rates resulting in many instances of increased foreclosure rates as the adjustable interest rates reset to higher levels. The Company did not have any such “subprime” loans at June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013.

Risk Elements

The Company assesses and manages credit risk on an ongoing basis through a total credit culture that emphasizes excellent credit quality, extensive internal monitoring and established formal lending policies. Additionally, the Company contracts with an outside loan review consultant to periodically review the existing loan and lease portfolio. Management believes its ability to identify and assess risk and return characteristics of the Company’s loan and lease portfolio is critical for profitability and growth. Management strives to continue its emphasis on credit quality in the loan and lease approval process, through active credit administration and regular monitoring. With this in mind, management has designed and implemented a comprehensive loan and lease review and grading system that functions to continually assess the credit risk inherent in the loan and lease portfolio. 

Ultimately, underlying trends in economic and business cycles influence credit quality. American River Bank’s business is concentrated in the Sacramento Metropolitan Statistical Area, which is a diversified economy, but with a large State of California government presence and employment base; in Sonoma County, which is focused on businesses within the two communities in which the Bank has offices (Santa Rosa and Healdsburg); and in Amador County, in which the Bank is primarily focused on businesses within the three communities in which it has offices (Jackson, Pioneer, and Ione). The economy of Sonoma County is diversified with professional services, manufacturing, agriculture and real estate investment and construction, while the economy of Amador County is reliant upon government, services, retail trade, manufacturing industries and Indian gaming. The Company has recently entered the Santa Clara, Contra Costa, and Alameda County markets with loan productions offices in Pleasanton and San Jose. The economies of Santa Clara, Contra Costa and Alameda Counties are diversified with professional services, manufacturing, technology related companies, real estate investment and construction.

The Company has significant extensions of credit and commitments to extend credit that are secured by real estate. The ultimate repayment of these loans is generally dependent on personal or business cash flows or the sale or refinancing of the real estate. The Company monitors the effects of current and expected market conditions and other factors on the collectability of real estate loans. The more significant factors management considers involve the following: lease rates and terms, vacancy rates, absorption and sale rates and capitalization rates; real estate values, supply and demand factors, and rates of return; operating expenses; inflation and deflation; and sufficiency of repayment sources independent of the real estate including, in some instances, personal guarantees. 

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In extending credit and commitments to borrowers, the Company generally requires collateral and/or guarantees as security. The repayment of such loans is expected to come from cash flow or from proceeds from the sale of selected assets of the borrowers. The Company’s requirement for collateral and/or guarantees is determined on a case-by-case basis in connection with management’s evaluation of the creditworthiness of the borrower. Collateral held varies but may include accounts receivable, inventory, property, plant and equipment, income-producing properties, residences and other real property. The Company secures its collateral by perfecting its security interest in business assets, obtaining deeds of trust, or outright possession among other means. 

In management’s judgment, a concentration exists in real estate loans, which represented approximately 86% of the Company’s loan and lease portfolio at June 30, 2014, a decrease from 87% at December 31, 2013. Management believes that the residential land and residential construction portion of the Company’s loan portfolio carries more than the normal credit risk, due primarily to severely curtailed demand for new and resale residential property, a large supply of unsold residential land and new and resale homes, and observed reductions in values throughout the Company’s market area. Management has responded by evaluating loans that it considers to carry any significant risk above the normal risk of collectability by taking actions where possible to reduce credit risk exposure by methods that include, but are not limited to, seeking liquidation of the loan by the borrower, seeking additional tangible collateral or other repayment support, converting the property through judicial or non-judicial foreclosure proceedings, and other collection techniques. Management currently believes that it maintains its allowance for loan and lease losses at levels adequate to reflect the loss risk inherent in its total loan portfolio. 

A further decline in the economy in general, or a continued additional decline in real estate values in the Company’s primary market areas, in particular, could continue to have an adverse impact on the collectability of real estate loans and require an increase in the provision for loan and lease losses. This could adversely affect the Company’s future prospects, results of operations, profitability and stock price. Management believes that its lending practices and underwriting standards are structured with the intent to minimize losses; however, there is no assurance that losses will not occur. The Company’s loan practices and underwriting standards include, but are not limited to, the following: (1) maintaining a thorough understanding of the Company’s service area and originating a significant majority of its loans within that area, (2) maintaining a thorough understanding of borrowers’ knowledge, capacity, and market position in their field of expertise, (3) basing real estate loan approvals not only on market demand for the project, but also on the borrowers’ capacity to support the project financially in the event it does not perform to expectations (whether sale or income performance), and (4) maintaining conforming and prudent loan-to-value and loan-to-cost ratios based on independent outside appraisals and ongoing inspection and analysis by the Company’s lending officers or contracted third-party professionals.

Nonperforming, Past Due and Restructured Loans and Leases

At June 30, 2014, nonperforming loans and leases (those loans and leases on nonaccrual status and those loans and leases still accruing and past due 90 days or more) were $1,506,000 or 0.60% of total loans and leases. The $1,506,000 in nonperforming loans and leases was made up of ten loans. Six of those loans totaling $651,000 were current (less than 30 days past due pursuant to their original or modified terms). Nonperforming loans and leases were $1,979,000 or 0.73% of total loans and leases at December 31, 2013. Specific reserves of $255,000 were held on the nonperforming loans at June 30, 2014 and specific reserves of $398,000 were held on the nonperforming loans at December 31, 2013.

The overall level of nonperforming loans decreased $377,000 (20.0%) to $1,506,000 at June 30, 2014 compared to $1,883,000 at March 31, 2014. At March 31, 2014, the Company had nonperforming loans and leases consisting of four real estate loans totaling $973,000; four commercial loans totaling $758,000 and four consumer loans totaling $152,000. During the second quarter of 2014, a single loan in the amount of $189,000 was moved to OREO, two loans in the amount of $259,000 were placed back on performing status; and a single loan in the amount of $145,000 was placed on nonperforming status. The Company also collected approximately $74,000 in principal paydowns.  The single loan added in the second quarter of 2014 was real estate secured and the loan balance that was transferred to OREO was adjusted based on an updated appraisal and the fair value the OREO is recorded at $243,000.

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There were no loan or lease concentrations in excess of 10% of total loans and leases not otherwise disclosed as a category of loans and leases as of June 30, 2014. Management is not aware of any potential problem loans, which were accruing and current at June 30, 2014, where serious doubt exists as to the ability of the borrower to comply with the present repayment terms and that would result in a significant loss to the Company. Table Seven below sets forth nonaccrual loans as of June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013.

 

Table Seven:  Nonperforming Loans and Leases    
(dollars in thousands)  June 30,
2014
   December 31,
2013
 
Past due 90 days or more and still accruing:          
   Commercial  $   $80 
   Real estate        
   Lease financing receivable        
   Agriculture        
   Consumer        
Nonaccrual:          
   Commercial   701    766 
   Real estate   654    977 
   Lease financing receivable        
   Agriculture        
   Consumer   151    156 
Total nonperforming loans  $1,506   $1,979 

The net interest due on nonaccrual loans and leases but excluded from interest income was $15,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2014, compared to foregone interest of $109,000 during the three months ended June 30, 2013. The net interest due on nonaccrual loans and leases but excluded from interest income was $54,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2014, compared to foregone interest of $168,000 during the six months ended June 30, 2013.

Impaired Loans and Leases

The Company considers a loan to be impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that it will be unable to collect all amounts due (principal and interest) according to the original contractual terms of the loan or lease agreement. The measurement of impairment may be based on (i) the present value of the expected cash flows of the impaired loan or lease discounted at the loan’s or lease’s original effective interest rate, (ii) the observable market price of the impaired loan or lease, or (iii) the fair value of the collateral of a collateral-dependent loan. The Company does not apply this definition to smaller-balance loans or leases that are collectively evaluated for credit risk. In assessing whether a loan or lease is impaired, the Company typically reviews loans or leases graded substandard or lower with outstanding principal balances in excess of $100,000, as well as loans considered troubled debt restructures with outstanding principal balances in excess of $25,000. The Company identifies troubled debt restructures by reviewing each renewal, modification, or extension of a loan with a screening document.  This document is designed to identify any characteristic of such a loan that would qualify it as a troubled debt restructure.  If the characteristics are not present that would qualify a loan as a troubled debt restructure, it is deemed to be a modification.  

At June 30, 2014, the recorded investment in loans and leases that were considered to be impaired totaled $26,157,000, which includes $24,746,000 in performing loans and leases. Of the total impaired loans of $26,157,000, loans totaling $11,542,000 were deemed to require no specific reserve and loans totaling $14,615,000 were deemed to require a related valuation allowance of $1,541,000. Of the $11,542,000 impaired loans that did not carry a specific reserve there were $294,000 in loans or leases that had previous partial charge-offs and $11,248,000 in loans or leases that were analyzed and determined not to require a specific reserve or charge-off because the collateral value or discounted cash flow value exceeded the loan or lease balance. The recorded investment in loans and leases that were considered to be impaired totaled $27,034,000 at December 31, 2013. Of the total impaired loans of $27,034,000, loans totaling $11,783,000 were deemed to require no specific reserve and loans totaling $15,251,000 were deemed to require a related valuation allowance of $1,598,000.

The Company has been operating in a market that has experienced significant decreases in real estate values of commercial, residential, land, and construction properties. As such, the Company is focused on monitoring collateral values for those loans considered collateral dependent. The collateral evaluations performed by the Company are updated as necessary, which is generally once every six months, and are reviewed by a qualified credit officer.  In the second quarter of 2014, the Company had net recoveries of $89,000 with no provision. In the second quarter of 2013, the Company had net charge-offs of $323,000 with a provision of $100,000.

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At June 30, 2014, there were 11 loans and leases that were modified and are currently performing (less than ninety days past due) totaling $13,898,000 and four loans and leases that are considered nonperforming (and included in Table Seven above), totaling $756,000, that are considered troubled debt restructures (“TDR”). These TDRs have a specific reserve of $828,000. As of June 30, 2014, of the 15 TDRs, there were seven rate reductions, three extensions, three changes in terms, and two lines of credit converted to term loans. All were performing as agreed except for two extensions and two term outs. The Company generally requires TDRs that are on non-accrual status to make six consecutive payments on the restructured loan or lease prior to returning the loan or lease to accrual status.

Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses Activity

The Company maintains an allowance for loan and lease losses (“ALLL”) to cover probable losses inherent in the loan and lease portfolio, which is based upon management’s estimate of those losses. The ALLL is established through a provision for loan and lease losses and is increased by provisions charged against current earnings and recoveries and reduced by charge-offs. Actual losses for loans and leases can vary significantly from this estimate. The methodology and assumptions used to calculate the allowance are continually reviewed as to their appropriateness given the most recent losses realized and other factors that influence the estimation process. The model assumptions and resulting allowance level are adjusted accordingly as these factors change.

The adequacy of the ALLL and the level of the related provision for loan and lease losses is determined based on management’s judgment after consideration of numerous factors including, but not limited to: (i) local and regional economic conditions, (ii) the financial condition of the borrowers, (iii) loan impairment and the related level of expected charge-offs, (iv) evaluation of industry trends, (v) industry and other concentrations, (vi) loans and leases which are contractually current as to payment terms but demonstrate a higher degree of risk as identified by management, (vii) continuing evaluations of the performing loan portfolio, (viii) ongoing review and evaluation of problem loans identified as having loss potential, (ix) quarterly review by the Board of Directors, and (x)  assessments by banking regulators and other third parties. Management and the Board of Directors evaluate the ALLL and determine its appropriate level considering objective and subjective measures, such as knowledge of the borrowers’ business, valuation of collateral, the determination of impaired loans or leases and exposure to potential losses. 

The ALLL totaled $5,462,000 or 2.17% of total loans and leases at June 30, 2014 compared to $5,346,000 or 2.08% of total loans and leases at December 31, 2013. The Company establishes general and specific reserves in accordance with the generally accepted accounting principles. The ALLL is maintained by categories of the loan and lease portfolio based on loan type and loan rating; however, the entire allowance is available to cover actual loan and lease losses. While management uses available information to recognize possible losses on loans and leases, future additions to the allowance may be necessary, based on changes in economic conditions and other matters. In addition, various regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination process, periodically review the Company’s ALLL. Such agencies may require the Company to provide additions to the allowance based on their judgment of information available to them at the time of their examination.

The ALLL as a percentage of non-performing loans and leases was 362.7% at June 30, 2014 and 270.1% at December 31, 2013. The ALLL as a percentage of impaired loans and leases was 20.9% at June 30, 2014 and 19.8% at December 31, 2013. Of the total non-performing and impaired loans and leases outstanding as of June 30, 2014, there were $1,428,000 in loans or leases that had been reduced by partial charge-offs of $291,000. As these loan or lease balances are charged off, the remaining balances, following analysis, normally do not initially require specific reserves and are not eligible for general reserves. The impact of this analysis on credit ratios is that the Company’s ALLL as a percentage may be lower, because the partial charge-offs have reduced the potential future losses related to those credits.

The Company’s policy with regard to loan or lease charge-offs continues to be that a loan or lease is charged off against the ALLL when management believes that the collectability of the principal is unlikely. Generally, a loan or lease is charged off, or partially charged off, when estimated losses related to impaired loans and leases are identified. If the loan is collateralized by real estate the impaired portion will be charged off to the ALLL unless the loan or lease is in the process of collection, in which case a specific reserve may be warranted. If the collateral is other than real estate the Company will typically charge-off the impaired portion of a loan or lease, unless the loan or lease is in the process of collection, in which case a specific reserve may be warranted.

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It is the policy of management to maintain the allowance for loan and lease losses at a level believed to be adequate for known and inherent risks in the portfolio. Our methodology incorporates a variety of risk considerations, both quantitative and qualitative, in establishing an allowance for loan and lease losses that management believes is appropriate at each reporting date. Based on information currently available to analyze inherent credit risk, including economic factors, overall credit quality, historical delinquencies and a history of actual charge-offs, management believes that the provision for loan and lease losses and the allowance for loan and lease losses are prudent and adequate. Adjustments may be made based on differences from estimated loan and lease growth, the types of loans constituting this growth, changes in risk ratings within the portfolio, and general economic conditions. However, no prediction of the ultimate level of loans and leases charged off in future periods can be made with any certainty. Table Eight below summarizes, for the periods indicated, the activity in the ALLL. 

Table Eight: Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses

(dollars in thousands)  Three Months
Ended June 30,
   Six Months
Ended June 30,
 
   2014   2013   2014   2013 
                 
Average loans and leases outstanding  $250,190   $250,200   $254,497   $252,072 
                     
Allowance for loan and lease losses at beginning of period  $5,373   $5,903   $5,346   $5,781 
                     
Loans and leases charged off:                    
     Commercial               (11)
     Real estate       (356)       (393)
     Lease financing receivable                
     Agriculture                
     Consumer   (73)       (74)   (5)
Total   (73)   (356)   (74)   (409)
Recoveries of loans and leases previously charged off:                    
     Commercial   121    22    141    97 
     Real estate   41    11    46    11 
     Lease financing receivable           3     
     Agriculture                
     Consumer                
Total   162    33    190    108 
Net loans and leases charged off   89    (323)   116    (301)
Additions to allowance charged to operating expenses       100        200 
Allowance for loan and lease losses at end of period  $5,462   $5,680   $5,462   $5,680 
Ratio of net charge-offs to average loans and
leases outstanding (annualized)
   -0.14%   0.52%   -0.09%   0.24%
Provision of allowance for loan and lease
losses to average loans and leases
outstanding (annualized)
   0.00%   0.16%   0.00%   0.16%
Allowance for loan and lease losses to loans and leases net of deferred fees at end of period   2.17%   2.24%   2.17%   2.24%

 

Other Real Estate Owned

 

At June 30, 2014, the Company had ten other real estate owned (“OREO”) properties totaling $6,864,000. This compares to nine properties totaling $6,621,000 at December 31, 2013 and 14 properties totaling $8,120,000 at June 30, 2013. During the second quarter of 2014, the Company added a single property with a fair value of $243,000.

 

During the second quarter of 2014, there was no valuation adjustment to the book value of the existing OREO properties. At June 30, 2014, there was a $105,000 valuation reserve. This compares to a reserve balance of zero at June 30, 2013 and $105,000 at December 31, 2013. The Company believes that all ten OREO properties owned at June 30, 2014 are carried approximately at fair value.

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Deposits

At June 30, 2014, total deposits were $490,858,000 representing a $7,168,000 (1.5%) increase from the December 31, 2013 balance of $483,690,000. The Company’s deposit growth plan for 2014 is to concentrate its efforts on increasing noninterest-bearing demand, interest-bearing money market and NOW accounts, and savings accounts while allowing higher cost time deposits to mature and close or renew at lower rates. During thee first six months of 2014, the Company experienced increases in noninterest-bearing ($3,653,000 or 2.5%), interest-bearing checking ($715,000 or 1.2%), money market accounts ($4,423,000 or 3.3%), and savings ($1,813,000 or 3.5%), and a decrease in time deposits ($3,436,000 or 3.7%).

Other Borrowed Funds

Other borrowings outstanding as of June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, consist of advances (both long-term and short-term) from the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco (“FHLB”). Table Nine below summarizes these borrowings.

Table Nine: Other Borrowed Funds                
(dollars in thousands)                
   June 30, 2014   December 31, 2013 
   Amount   Rate   Amount   Rate 
Short-term borrowings:                    
FHLB advances $1,500    0.24%  $8,000    2.15%
Long-term borrowings:                    
FHLB advances $9,500    1.40%  $8,000    1.47%

The maximum amount of short-term borrowings at any month-end during the first six months of 2014 and 2013 was $3,000,000 and $8,000,000, respectively. The FHLB advances are collateralized by loans and securities pledged to the FHLB. The following is a breakdown of rates and maturities on FHLB advances (dollars in thousands):

   Short-term   Long-term 
Amount  $1,500   $9,500 
Maturity   2015    2015 to 2019 
Weighted average rates   0.24%   1.40%

 

The Company has also been issued a total of $5,800,000 in letters of credit by the FHLB which are pledged to secure Local Agency Deposits. The letters of credit act as a guarantee of payment to certain third parties in accordance with specified terms and conditions. The letters of credit were not drawn upon in 2014 or 2013 and management does not currently expect to draw upon these lines in the foreseeable future. See the “Liquidity” section that follows for additional information on FHLB borrowings.

 

Capital Resources

 

The Company and American River Bank are subject to certain regulatory capital requirements administered by the Federal Reserve Board and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the “FDIC”). Failure to meet these minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory, and possibly additional discretionary, actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. Under current capital adequacy guidelines and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, banks must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of their assets, liabilities and certain off-balance-sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. The Company’s and American River Bank’s capital amounts and classification are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings and other factors.

45
 

At June 30, 2014, shareholders’ equity was $87,564,000, representing an increase of $544,000 (6.3%) from $87,020,000 at December 31, 2013. The increase results from the addition of earnings of $2,041,000 and an increase in the unrealized gain on securities of $2,580,000 exceeding the stock repurchases of $4,148,000 made under the 2014 Stock Repurchase Program. The ratio of total risk-based capital to risk adjusted assets was 22.7% at June 30, 2014 and 23.2% at December 31, 2013. Tier 1 risk-based capital to risk-adjusted assets was 21.4% at June 30, 2014 and 22.0% at December 31, 2013. The leverage ratio was 11.7% at June 30, 2014 and 11.9% at December 31, 2013.

 

Table Ten below lists the Company’s actual capital ratios at June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 as well as the minimum capital ratios for capital adequacy.

Table Ten: Capital Ratios        
Capital to Risk-Adjusted Assets  At June 30,
2014
   At December 31,
2013
   Minimum Regulatory
Capital Requirements
 
Leverage ratio   11.7%   11.9%       4.00
Tier 1 Risk-Based Capital   21.4%   22.0%   4.00%
Total Risk-Based Capital   22.7%   23.2%   8.00%

Capital ratios are reviewed on a regular basis to ensure that capital exceeds the prescribed regulatory requirements and is adequate to meet future needs. Management believes that both the Company and American River Bank met all of their capital adequacy requirements as of June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013.

 

In July 2013, the federal bank regulatory agencies issued interim final rules which were subsequently adopted as final rules to revise and replace the current risk-based capital requirements in order to implement the “Basel III” regulatory capital reforms released by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision and changes required by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010. The Basel III reforms reflected in the final rules include an increase in the risk-based capital requirements and certain changes to capital components and the calculation of risk-weighted assets.

 

Effective January 1, 2015, banking organizations like the Company and American River Bank must comply with new minimum capital ratio requirements to be phased-in between January 1, 2015 and January 1, 2019, which would consist of the following: (i) a new common equity Tier 1 capital to total risk weighted assets ratio of 4.5%; (ii) a Tier 1 capital to total risk weighted assets ratio of 6% (increased from 4%); (iii) a total capital to total risk weighted assets ratio of 8% (unchanged from current rules); and (iv) a Tier 1 capital to adjusted average total assets (“leverage”) ratio of 4%.

 

In addition, a “capital conservation buffer,” is established which when fully phased-in will require maintenance of a minimum of 2.5% of common equity Tier 1 capital to total risk weighted assets in excess of the regulatory minimum capital ratio requirements described above. The 2.5% buffer will increase the minimum capital ratios to (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%. The new buffer requirement will be phased-in between January 1, 2016 and January 1, 2019. If the capital ratio levels of a banking organization fall below the capital conservation buffer amount, the organization will be subject to limitations on (i) the payment of dividends; (ii) discretionary bonus payments; (iii) discretionary payments under Tier 1 instruments; and (iv) engaging in share repurchases.

 

The federal bank regulatory agencies also implemented changes to the prompt corrective action framework, which is designed to place restrictions on insured depository institutions if their capital ratios begin to show signs of weakness. These changes will take effect January 1, 2015 and will require insured depository institutions to meet the following increased capital ratio requirements in order to qualify as “well capitalized:” (i) a new common equity Tier 1 capital ratio of 6.5%; (ii) a Tier 1 capital ratio of 8% (increased from 6%); (iii) a total capital ratio of 10% (unchanged from current rules); and (iv) a Tier 1 leverage ratio of 5% (increased from 4%).

 

Assuming the final rules were in effect at June 30, 2014 and based upon the Company’s capital position at June 30, 2014, management believes that the Company and American River Bank would be in compliance with the minimum capital requirements, including the fully phased-in capital conservation buffer requirement, of the final rules.

 

On January 17, 2014, the Company approved and authorized a stock repurchase program for 2014 (the “2014 Program”). See Part II, Item 2, for additional disclosure regarding the 2014 Program.

46
 

Inflation

The impact of inflation on a financial institution differs significantly from that exerted on manufacturing or other commercial concerns primarily because its assets and liabilities are largely monetary. In general, inflation primarily affects the Company and it subsidiaries through its effect on market rates of interest, which affects the Company’s ability to attract loan customers. Inflation affects the growth of total assets by increasing the level of loan demand and potentially adversely affects capital adequacy because loan growth in inflationary periods can increase at rates higher than the rate that capital grows through retention of earnings which may be generated in the future. In addition to its effects on interest rates, inflation increases overall operating expenses. Inflation has not had a significant effect upon the results of operations of the Company and its subsidiaries during the periods ended June 30, 2014 and 2013.

Liquidity

Liquidity management refers to the Company’s ability to provide funds on an ongoing basis to meet fluctuations in deposit levels as well as the credit needs and requirements of its clients. Both assets and liabilities contribute to the Company’s liquidity position. Federal funds lines, short-term investments and securities, and loan and lease repayments contribute to liquidity, along with deposit increases, while loan and lease funding and deposit withdrawals decrease liquidity. The Company assesses the likelihood of projected funding requirements by reviewing historical funding patterns, current and forecasted economic conditions and individual client funding needs. Commitments to fund loans and outstanding standby letters of credit at June 30, 2014 were approximately $32,616,000 and $6,285,000, respectively. Such loan commitments relate primarily to revolving lines of credit and other commercial loans and to real estate construction loans. Since some of the commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements.

The Company’s sources of liquidity consist of cash and due from correspondent banks, overnight funds sold to correspondent banks, unpledged marketable investments and loans held for sale and/or pledged for secured borrowings. At June 30, 2014, consolidated liquid assets totaled $233.2 million or 39.2% of total assets compared to $221.6 million or 37.4% of total assets on December 31, 2014. In addition to liquid assets, the Company maintains two short-term unsecured lines of credit in the amount of $17,000,000 with two of its correspondent banks. At June 30, 2014, the Company had $17,000,000 available under these credit lines. Additionally, the Bank is a member of the FHLB. At June 30, 2014, the Bank could have arranged for up to $81,741,000 in secured borrowings from the FHLB. These borrowings are secured by pledged mortgage loans and investment securities. At June 30, 2014, the Company had advances, borrowings and commitments (including letters of credit) outstanding of $16.800,000, leaving $64,941,000 available under these FHLB secured borrowing arrangements. American River Bank also has a secured borrowing arrangement with the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco. The borrowing can be secured by pledging selected loans and investment securities. At June 30, 2014, the Company’s borrowing capacity at the Federal Reserve Bank was $19,842,000. The Company serves primarily a business and professional customer base and, as such, its deposit base is susceptible to economic fluctuations. Accordingly, management strives to maintain a balanced position of liquid assets and borrowing capacity to offset the potential runoff of these volatile and/or cyclical deposits.

Liquidity is also affected by portfolio maturities and the effect of interest rate fluctuations on the marketability of both assets and liabilities. The Company can sell any of its unpledged securities held in the available-for-sale category to meet liquidity needs. The Bank has established a master repurchase agreement with a correspondent bank to enable such transactions. Furthermore, the Bank can pledge additional unencumbered securities to borrow from the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco and the FHLB.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Items

The Company is a party to financial instruments with off-balance-sheet risk in the normal course of business in order to meet the financing needs of its customers and to reduce its exposure to fluctuations in interest rates. These financial instruments consist of commitments to extend credit and letters of credit. These instruments involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit and interest rate risk in excess of the amount recognized on the balance sheet.

The Company’s exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the other party for commitments to extend credit and letters of credit is represented by the contractual amount of those instruments. The Company applies the same credit policies to commitments and letters of credit as it does for loans included on the consolidated balance sheet. As of June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit were the only financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk. The Company has not entered into any contracts for financial derivative instruments such as futures, swaps, options or similar instruments. Loan commitments and standby letters of credit were $38,901,000 and $38,044,000 at June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively. As a percentage of net loans and leases these off-balance sheet items represent 15.8% and 15.1%, respectively.

47
 

The Company has certain ongoing commitments under operating leases. These commitments do not significantly impact operating results.

Website Access

American River Bankshares maintains a website where certain information about the Company is posted. Through the website, its annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and amendments thereto, as well as Section 16 Reports and amendments thereto, are available as soon as reasonably practicable after such material is electronically filed with or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). These reports are free of charge and can be accessed through the address www.americanriverbank.com by clicking on the Investor Relations/SEC Filings link located at that address. Once you have selected the SEC Filings link you will have the option to access the Section 16 Reports or the other above-referenced reports filed by the Company by selecting the appropriate link.

 

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.

 

Market Risk Management

Overview. Market risk is the risk of loss from adverse changes in market prices and rates. The Company’s market risk arises primarily from interest rate risk inherent in its loan, investment and deposit functions. The goal for managing the assets and liabilities of the Company is to maximize shareholder value and earnings while maintaining a high quality balance sheet without exposing the Company to undue interest rate risk. The Board of Directors has overall responsibility for the interest rate risk management policies. The Company has an Enterprise Risk Management Committee, made up of Company management that establishes and monitors guidelines to control the sensitivity of earnings to changes in interest rates.

Asset/Liability Management. Activities involved in asset/liability management include, but are not limited to, lending, accepting and placing deposits and investing in securities. Interest rate risk is the primary market risk associated with asset/liability management. Sensitivity of earnings to interest rate changes arises when yields on assets change in a different time period or in a different amount from that of interest costs on liabilities. To mitigate interest rate risk, the structure of the balance sheet is managed with the goal that movements of interest rates on assets and liabilities are correlated and contribute to earnings even in periods of volatile interest rates. The asset/liability management policy sets limits on the acceptable amount of variance in net interest margin and market value of equity under changing interest environments. The Company uses simulation models to forecast earnings, net interest margin and market value of equity.

Simulation of earnings is the primary tool used to measure the sensitivity of earnings to interest rate changes. Using computer-modeling techniques, with specialized software built for this specific purpose for financial institutions, the Company is able to estimate the potential impact of changing interest rates on earnings, net interest margin and market value of equity. A balance sheet is prepared using detailed inputs of actual loans, securities and interest-bearing liabilities (i.e. deposits/borrowings). The balance sheet is processed using multiple interest rate scenarios. The scenarios include a rising rate forecast, a flat rate forecast and a falling rate forecast which take place within a one-year time frame. The net interest income is measured over one-year and two-year periods assuming a gradual change in rates over the twelve-month horizon. The simulation modeling attempts to estimate changes in the Company’s net interest income utilizing a detailed current balance sheet.

After a review of the model results as of June 30, 2014, the Company does not consider the fluctuations from the base case, to have a material impact on the Company’s projected results and are within the tolerance levels outlined in the Company’s interest rate risk polices. The simulations of earnings do not incorporate any management actions, which might moderate the negative consequences of interest rate deviations. Therefore, they do not reflect likely actual results, but serve as reasonable estimates of interest rate risk.

48
 

 

Item 4. Controls and Procedures.

 

The Company, under the supervision and with the participation of its management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s “disclosure controls and procedures” (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) as of June 30, 2014. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective in timely making known to them material information relating to the Company and the Company’s consolidated subsidiaries required to be disclosed in the Company’s reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act.

 

During the quarter ended June 30, 2014, there have been no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that have significantly affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, these controls.

 

PART II – OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings.

From time to time, the Company and/or its subsidiaries is a party to claims and legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business. The Company’s management is not aware of any significant pending legal proceedings to which either it or its subsidiaries may be a party or has recently been a party, which will have a significant adverse effect on the financial condition or results of operations of the Company or its subsidiaries, taken as a whole.

 

Item 1A. Risk Factors.

There have been no significant changes in the risk factors previously disclosed in the Company’s Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2013, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 28, 2014.

 

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

 

During 2013, the Company approved and authorized a stock repurchase program for 2013 (the “2013 Program”). The 2013 Program authorized the repurchase during 2013 of up to 10% of the outstanding shares of the Company’s common stock, or approximately 932,700 shares. During 2013, the Company repurchased 894,404 shares of its common stock at an average price of $8.24 per share. On January 17, 2014, the Company approved and authorized a stock repurchase program for 2014 (the “2014 Program”). The 2014 Program authorizes the repurchase during 2014 of up to 5% of the outstanding shares of the Company’s common stock, or approximately 424,462 shares based on the 8,489,247 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2013. Any repurchases under the 2014 Program will be made from time to time by the Company in the open market as conditions allow. All such transactions will be structured to comply with SEC Rule 10b-18 and all shares repurchased under the 2014 Program will be retired. The number, price and timing of the repurchases will be at the Company’s sole discretion and the 2014 Program may be re-evaluated depending on market conditions, capital and liquidity needs or other factors. Based on such re-evaluation, the Board of Directors may suspend, terminate, modify or cancel the 2014 Program at any time without notice. As of June 30, 2014, the Company repurchased 424,462 shares of its common stock (or five percent of the outstanding shares) under the 2014 Program at an average price of $9.77 per share.

49
 

The following table lists shares repurchased during the quarter ended June 30, 2014 and the maximum amount available to repurchase under the repurchase plan.

Period  (a)   (b)   (c)   (d) 
   Total Number
of Shares (or
Units)
Purchased
   Average Price
Paid Per Share
(or Unit)
   Total Number of Shares
(or Units) Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced Plans or
Programs
   Maximum Number (or
Approximate Dollar Value)
of Shares (or Units) That
May Yet Be Purchased
Under the Plans or Programs
 
Month #1 April 1 through April 30, 2014   25,372   $9.65    25,372    68,252 
Month #2 May 1 through May 31, 2014   68,252    9.60    68,252     
Month #3 June 1 through June 30, 2014                
Total   93,624   $9.61    93,624         N/A 

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities.

None.

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures.

Not applicable.

Item 5. Other Information.

None.

Item 6. Exhibits.

 Exhibit
Number
 Document Description
     
(2.1)  Agreement and Plan of Reorganization and Merger by and among the Registrant, ARH Interim National Bank and North Coast Bank, N.A., dated as of March 1, 2000 (included as Annex A). **
(2.2)  Agreement and Plan of Reorganization and Merger by and among the Registrant, American River Bank and Bank of Amador, dated as of July 8, 2004 (included as Annex A). ***
(3.1)  Articles of Incorporation, as amended, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2011, filed with the Commission on May 10, 2011.
(3.2)  Bylaws, as amended, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3.2 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2013, filed with the Commission on May 9, 2013.
(4.1)  Specimen of the Registrant’s common stock certificate, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2004, filed with the Commission on August 11, 2004.
(10.1)  Lease agreement between American River Bank and Spieker Properties, L.P., a California limited partnership, dated April 1, 2000, related to 1545 River Park Drive, Suite 107, Sacramento, California (**) and the Second Amendment thereto dated August 27, 2010, with HINES VAF II SACRAMENTO PROPERTIES, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership, the successor to Spieker Properties, L.P., incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on August 30, 2010.
50
 
(10.2)  Lease agreement between American River Bank and Bradshaw Plaza Associates, Inc. dated November 27, 2006, related to 9750 Business Park Drive, Sacramento, California, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on November 28, 2006.

(10.3)  Lease agreement between American River Bank and LUM YIP KEE, Limited (formerly Sandalwood Land Company) dated August 28, 1996, related to 2240 Douglas Boulevard, Suite 100, Roseville, California (**) and Amendment No. 1 thereto dated July 28, 2006, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on July 31, 2006.

*(10.4)  Registrant’s Deferred Compensation Plan, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on January 3, 2012.
*(10.5)  Registrant’s Deferred Fee Plan, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on January 3, 2012.
(10.6)  Lease agreement between American River Bank and 520 Capitol Mall, Inc., dated August 19, 2003, related to 520 Capitol Mall, Suite 100, Sacramento, California, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.29 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2003, filed with the Commission on November 7, 2003 and the First Amendment thereto dated April 21, 2004, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.37 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2004, filed with the Commission on August 11, 2004.
*(10.7)  Employment Agreement between Registrant and David T. Taber dated June 2, 2006, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.3 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on May 30, 2006.
*(10.8)  Salary Continuation Agreement, as amended on December 31, 2012, between American River Bank and Mitchell A. Derenzo, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.3 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on January 2, 2013.
*(10.9)  Salary Continuation Agreement, as amended on December 31, 2012, between the Registrant and David T. Taber, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on January 2, 2013.
*(10.10)  Salary Continuation Agreement, as amended on February 21, 2008, between American River Bank and Douglas E. Tow, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on February 22, 2008.
*(10.11)  Registrant’s 2000 Stock Option Plan with forms of Nonqualified Stock Option Agreement and Incentive Stock Option Agreement. **
*(10.12)  Registrant’s 401(k) Plan dated December 23, 2008, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on December 24, 2008.

(10.13)  Lease agreement between Bank of Amador, a division of American River Bank, and the United States Postal Service, dated May 24, 2011, related to 424 Sutter Street, Jackson, California, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on May 25, 2011.

*(10.14)  Salary Continuation Agreement, as amended on February 21, 2008, between Bank of Amador, a division of American River Bank, and Larry D. Standing and related Endorsement Split Dollar Agreement, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.4 to the Registrant’s Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on February 22, 2008.
51
 
*(10.15)  Director Retirement Agreement, as amended on February 21, 2008, between Bank of Amador, a division of American River Bank, and Larry D. Standing, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.5 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on February 22, 2008.
(10.16)  Item Processing Agreement between American River Bank and Fidelity Information Services, Inc., dated April 30, 2012, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on May 4, 2012.
(10.17)  Lease agreement between Registrant and One Capital Center, a California limited partnership, dated May 17, 2005, related to 3100 Zinfandel Drive, Rancho Cordova, California, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on May 18, 2005 and the First Amendment thereto dated April 23, 2010, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on April 23, 2010.
(10.18)  Managed Services Agreement between American River Bankshares and ProNet Solutions, Inc., dated June 25, 2012, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on June 27, 2012.

*(10.19)  American River Bankshares 2005 Executive Incentive Plan, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on October 27, 2005; the First Amendment thereto, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on March 17, 2006; the Second Amendment thereto, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on March 23, 2007; the Third Amendment thereto, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on February 22, 2008; the Fourth Amendment thereto, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on March 20, 2009; the Fifth Amendment thereto, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on March 18, 2010; the Sixth Amendment thereto, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on March 17, 2011; the Seventh Amendment thereto, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on February 17, 2012; the Eight Amendment thereto, incorporated by reference from the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on January 31, 2013, and the Ninth Amendment thereto, incorporated by reference from the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on January 16, 2014.
*(10.20)  American River Bankshares Director Emeritus Program, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.33 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2006, filed with the Commission on August 8, 2006.
*(10.21)  Employment Agreement dated September 20, 2006, between American River Bankshares and Mitchell A. Derenzo, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on September 20, 2006.
*(10.22)  Employment Agreement dated September 20, 2006, between American River Bankshares and Kevin B. Bender, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.3 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on September 20, 2006.
*(10.23)  Salary Continuation Agreement, as amended on December 31, 2012, between American River Bank and Kevin B. Bender, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on January 2, 2013.
52
 

*(10.24)  Salary Continuation Agreement, as amended on February 21, 2008, between American River Bank and Raymond F. Byrne, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.7 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on February 22, 2008.

(10.25)  Lease agreement dated May 23, 2007 between Bank of Amador, a division of American River Bank, and Joseph Bellamy, Trustee of the Joseph T. Bellamy 2005 Trust, related to 26395 Buckhorn Ridge Road, Pioneer, California, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on May 24, 2007 and the First Amendment thereto, dated October 15, 2007, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on October 16, 2007.

(10.26)  Lease agreement dated December 23, 2008, between North Coast Bank, a division of American River Bank, and 90 E Street LLC, related to 90 E Street, Santa Rosa, California, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.3 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on December 24, 2008.
(10.27)  Customer Service Agreement dated January 4, 2010, between American River Bankshares and TriNet HR Corporation, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on January 5, 2010.
*(10.28)  Form of Indemnification Agreement entered into on January 20, 2010, between American River Bankshares and its Directors and certain named executive officers, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on January 22, 2010.
*(10.29)  Form of Indemnification Agreement entered into on January 20, 2010, between American River Bank and its Directors and certain named executive officers, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on January 22, 2010.
*(10.30)  Registrant’s 2010 Equity Incentive Plan, incorporated by reference from the Registrant’s Definitive Proxy Statement for its 2010 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, filed with the Commission on April 9, 2010.
(10.31)  Subscription and Services Agreement between American River Bank and Postilion, Inc., dated June 19, 2012, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on June 21, 2012.

*(10.32)  Salary Continuation Agreement between American River Bank and Robert H. Muttera, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on February 4, 2013.

(10.33)  Lease agreement dated February 6, 2014, between American River Bank and Gold River Village Associates, a California Limited Partnership, related to 11220 Gold River Express Drive, Gold River, California, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on February 10, 2014.

(10.34)  Lease agreement dated February 12, 2014, between American River Bank and 520 Capitol Mall Inc., a Delaware corporation, related to 520 Capitol Mall, Suite 200, Sacramento, California, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on February 18, 2014.

*(10.35)  Employment Agreement dated June 2, 2014, between American River Bank and Loren E. Hunter, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on June 2, 2014.
*(10.36)  Salary Continuation Agreement between American River Bank and Loren E. Hunter, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Commission on July 11, 2014.
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(14.1)  Registrant’s Code of Ethics, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 14.1 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2003, filed with the Commission on March 19, 2004.
(21.1)  The Registrant’s only subsidiaries are American River Bank, a California banking corporation, and American River Financial, a California corporation.
(23.1)  Consent of Crowe Horwath LLP
(31.1)  Certifications of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
(31.2)  Certifications of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
(32.1)  Certification of American River Bankshares by its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

  101.INS   XBRL Instance Document****
  101.SCH   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema****
  101.CAL   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation****
  101.DEF   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition****
  101.LAB   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label****
  101.PRE   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation****
       
      *Denotes management contracts, compensatory plans or arrangements.
       
      **Incorporated by reference to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-36326) filed with the Commission on May 5, 2000.
       
      ***Incorporated by reference to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-119085) filed with the Commission on September 17, 2004.
       
      ****These interactive data files shall not be deemed filed for purposes of Section 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or otherwise subject to liability under those sections.
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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.

  AMERICAN RIVER BANKSHARES
   
August 4, 2014 By: /s/ DAVID T. TABER
  David T. Taber
  President and
  Chief Executive Officer
   
AMERICAN RIVER BANKSHARES 
   
August 4, 2014 By: /s/ MITCHELL A. DERENZO
  Mitchell A. Derenzo
  Executive Vice President and
  Chief Financial Officer
  (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)
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EXHIBIT INDEX

Exhibit Number   Description   Page
31.1   Certifications of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.   57
         
31.2   Certifications of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.   58
         
32.1   Certification of American River Bankshares by its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.   59
56