NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Note 1)
Business
Valley National Bancorp, a New Jersey Corporation (Valley), is a financial holding company whose principal wholly-owned subsidiary is Valley National Bank (the “Bank”), a national banking association providing a full range of commercial, retail and trust and investment services largely through its offices and ATM network throughout northern and central New Jersey, the New York City boroughs of Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens, Long Island, Westchester County, New York, Florida and Alabama. The Bank is subject to intense competition from other financial service providers and is subject to the regulation of certain federal and state agencies and undergoes periodic examinations by certain regulatory authorities.
Valley National Bank’s subsidiaries are all included in the consolidated financial statements of Valley. These subsidiaries include, but are not limited to:
•an insurance agency offering property and casualty, life and health insurance;
•an asset management adviser that is a registered investment adviser with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC);
•a title insurance agency in New York, which also provides services in New Jersey;
•an advisory firm specializing in the investment and management of tax credits;
•subsidiaries which hold, maintain and manage investment assets for the Bank;
•a subsidiary which specializes in health care equipment lending and other commercial equipment leases; and
•a subsidiary which owns and services New York commercial loans.
The Bank’s subsidiaries also include real estate investment trust subsidiaries (the “REIT” subsidiaries) which own real estate related investments and a REIT subsidiary which owns some of the real estate utilized by the Bank and related real estate investments. Except for Valley’s REIT subsidiaries and its insurance agency (10% of which is owned by the insurance agency's co-CEOs), all subsidiaries mentioned above are directly or indirectly wholly-owned by the Bank. Because each REIT subsidiary must have 100 or more shareholders to qualify as a REIT, each REIT subsidiary has issued less than 20 percent of its outstanding non-voting preferred stock to individuals, most of whom are current and former Bank employees. The Bank owns the remaining preferred stock and all the common stock of the REITs.
Basis of Presentation
The consolidated financial statements of Valley include the Bank and all of Valley’s direct or indirect wholly-owned subsidiaries. All inter-company transactions and balances have been eliminated. The accounting and reporting policies of Valley conform to U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (U.S. GAAP) and general practices within the financial services industry. In accordance with applicable accounting standards, Valley does not consolidate statutory trusts established for the sole purpose of issuing trust preferred securities and related trust common securities. See Note 11 for more details. Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation.
Valley's previously reported consolidated statements of cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 were revised to reflect a change in the presentation for loss on extinguishment of debt. The revisions resulted in increases of $12.0 million and $32.0 million in “Loss on extinguishment of debt” and corresponding decreases in “Repayments of the long-term borrowings” for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Management determined that the effect of the changes in presentation was immaterial to these periods.
Significant Estimates. In preparing the consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP, management has made estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities as of the date of the consolidated statements of financial condition and results of operations for the periods indicated. Material estimates that require application of management’s most difficult, subjective or complex judgment and are particularly susceptible to change include: the allowance for credit losses, the evaluation of goodwill and other intangible assets for impairment, and income taxes. Estimates and assumptions are reviewed periodically, and the effects of revisions are reflected in the consolidated financial statements in the period they are deemed necessary. While management uses its best judgment, actual amounts or results could differ significantly from those estimates. The current economic environment has increased the degree of uncertainty inherent in these
material estimates. Actual results may differ from those estimates. Also, future amounts and values could differ materially from those estimates due to changes in values and circumstances after the balance sheet date.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
For purposes of reporting cash flows, cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, amounts due from banks, interest bearing deposits in other banks (including the Federal Reserve Bank of New York) and, from time to time, overnight federal funds sold. Effective March 26, 2020, the Federal Reserve Board reduced reserve requirement ratios to zero, effectively eliminating the requirements, due to a change in its approach to monetary policy. The Federal Reserve Board indicated that it has no plans to re-impose reserve requirements but could in the future if conditions warrant. Prior to March 2020, the Bank was required by the Federal Reserve System to maintain cash reserves equal to a percentage of certain deposits.
Investment Securities
Debt securities are classified at the time of purchase based on management’s intention, as securities held-to-maturity, securities available-for-sale or trading securities. Investment securities classified as held-to-maturity are those that management has the positive intent and ability to hold until maturity. Investment securities held-to-maturity are carried at amortized cost, adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts using the level-yield method over the contractual term of the securities, adjusted for actual prepayments, or to call date if the security was purchased at premium. Investment securities classified as available-for-sale are carried at fair value with unrealized holding gains and losses reported as a component of other comprehensive income or loss, net of tax. Realized gains or losses on the available-for-sale securities are recognized by the specific identification method and are included in net gains and losses on securities transactions within non-interest income.
Trading debt securities wholly consisting of municipal bonds are reported at fair value with the unrealized gains or losses due to changes in fair value reported within non-interest income. Net trading gains and losses are included in net gains and
losses on securities transactions within non-interest income.
Equity securities are presented on the statements of financial condition at fair value with any unrealized and realized gains and losses reported in non-interest income.
Investments in Federal Home Loan Bank and Federal Reserve Bank stock, which have limited marketability, are carried at cost in other assets. Security transactions are recorded on a trade-date basis.
Interest income on investments includes amortization of purchase premiums and discounts. Valley discontinues the recognition of interest on debt securities if the securities meet both of the following criteria: (i) regularly scheduled interest payments have not been paid or have been deferred by the issuer, and (ii) full collection of all contractual principal and interest payments is not deemed to be the most likely outcome.
Allowance for Credit Losses for Held to Maturity Debt Securities
On January 1, 2020, Valley adopted Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2016-13 "Financial Instruments—Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments", which requires us to estimate and recognize an allowance for credit losses for held to maturity debt securities using the current expected credit loss methodology (CECL).
Valley's CECL model includes a zero loss expectation for certain securities within the held to maturity portfolio, and therefore Valley is not required to estimate an allowance for credit losses related to these securities. After an evaluation of qualitative factors, Valley identified the following securities types which it believes qualify for this exclusion: U.S. Treasury securities, U.S. agency securities, residential mortgage-backed securities issued by Ginnie Mae, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, and collateralized municipal bonds commonly referred to as Tax Exempt Mortgage Securities (TEMS).
To measure the expected credit losses on held to maturity debt securities that have loss expectations, Valley estimates the expected credit losses using a discounted cash flow model developed by a third-party. Assumptions used in the model for pools of securities with common risk characteristics include the historical lifetime probability of default and severity of loss in the event of default, with the model incorporating several economic cycles of loss history data to calculate expected credit losses given default at the individual security level. The model is adjusted for a probability weighted multi-scenario economic forecast to estimate future credit losses. Valley uses a two-year reasonable and supportable forecast period, followed by a one-year period over which estimated losses revert to historical loss experience for the remaining life of the investment security. The economic forecast methodology and governance for debt securities is aligned with Valley's economic forecast used for the loan portfolio. Accrued interest receivable is excluded from the estimate of credit losses.
See Note 4 for more details regarding the allowance for credit losses for held to maturity securities.
Impairment of Available for Sale Debt Securities
The impairment model for available for sale debt securities differs from the CECL methodology applied to held to maturity debt securities because the available for sale debt securities are measured at fair value rather than amortized cost. Available for sale debt securities in unrealized loss positions are evaluated for impairment related to credit losses on a quarterly basis. In performing an assessment of whether any decline in fair value is due to a credit loss, Valley considers the extent to which the fair value is less than the amortized cost, changes in credit ratings, any adverse economic conditions, as well as all relevant information at the individual security level, such as credit deterioration of the issuer or collateral underlying the security. In assessing the impairment, Valley compares the present value of cash flows expected to be collected with the amortized cost basis of the security. If it is determined that the decline in fair value was due to credit losses, an allowance for credit losses is recorded, limited to the amount the fair value is less than amortized cost basis. The non-credit related decrease in the fair value, such as a decline due to changes in market interest rates, is recorded in other comprehensive income, net of tax. Valley also assesses the intent to sell the securities (as well as the likelihood of a near-term recovery). If Valley intends to sell an available for sale debt security or it is more likely than not that Valley will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis, the debt security is written down to its fair value and the write down is charged to the debt security’s fair value at the reporting date with any incremental impairment reported in earnings. See Note 4 for additional information.
Loans Held for Sale
Loans held for sale generally consist of residential mortgage loans originated and intended for sale in the secondary market and are carried at their estimated fair value on an instrument-by-instrument basis as permitted by the fair value option election under U.S. GAAP. Changes in fair value are recognized in non-interest income in the accompanying consolidated statements of income as a component of net gains on sales of loans. Origination fees and costs related to loans originated for sale (and carried at fair value) are recognized as earned and as incurred. Loans held for sale are generally sold with loan servicing rights retained by Valley. Gains recognized on loan sales include the value assigned to the rights to service the loan. See the “Loan Servicing Rights” section below.
Loans and Loan Fees
Loans are reported at their outstanding principal balance net of any unearned income, charge-offs, unamortized deferred fees and costs on originated loans and premium or discounts on purchased loans, except for purchased credit deteriorated (PCD) loans recorded at the purchase price, including non-credit discounts, plus the allowance for credit losses expected at the time of acquisition. Loan origination and commitment fees, net of related costs are deferred and amortized as an adjustment of loan yield over the estimated life of the loans approximating the effective interest method.
Loans are deemed to be past due when the contractually required principal and interest payments have not been received as they become due. Loans are placed on non-accrual status generally, when they become 90 days past due and the full and timely collection of principal and interest becomes uncertain. When a loan is placed on non-accrual status, interest accruals cease and uncollected accrued interest is reversed and charged against current income. Cash collections from non-accrual loans are generally credited to the loan balance, and no interest income is recognized on these loans until the principal balance has been determined to be fully collectible. A loan in which the borrowers’ obligation has not been released in bankruptcy courts may be restored to an accruing basis when it becomes well secured and is in the process of collection, or all past due amounts become current under the loan agreement and collectability is no longer doubtful.
Allowance for Credit Losses for Loans
As previously noted, Valley adopted ASU No. 2016-13 on January 1, 2020, and, as a result, the 2021 and 2020 periods presented in the consolidated financial statements follow the current expected credit losses methodology. The 2019 period has been reported in accordance with previously applicable GAAP, which followed the incurred credit losses methodology. The following policies noted are under the current expected credit losses methodology.
The allowance for credit losses (ACL) is a valuation account that is deducted from the amortized cost basis to present the net amount expected to be collected on the loans. Loans are charged off against the allowance when management believes the uncollectibility of a loan balance is confirmed. Provisions for credit losses for loans and recoveries on loan previously charged-off by Valley are added back to the allowance.
Under CECL, Valley's methodology to establish the allowance for credit losses for loans has two basic components: (1) a collective reserve component for estimated lifetime expected credit losses for pools of loans that share common risk characteristics and (2) an individual reserve component for loans that do not share common risk characteristics. Previously, an allowance for loan losses was recognized based on probable incurred losses.
Reserves for loans that share common risk characteristics. Valley estimated the collective ACL using a current expected credit losses methodology which is based on relevant information about historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the collectability of the loan balances. In estimating the component of the allowance on a collective basis, Valley uses a transition matrix model which calculates an expected life of loan loss percentage for each loan pool by generating probability of default and loss given default metrics. The metrics are based on the migration of loans from performing to loss by credit quality rating or delinquency categories using historical life-of-loan analysis periods for each loan portfolio pool, and the severity of loss, based on the aggregate net lifetime losses. The model's expected losses based on loss history are adjusted for qualitative factors. Among other things, these adjustments include and account for differences in: (i) the impact of the reasonable and supportable economic forecast, probability weightings and reversion period, (ii) other asset specific risks to the extent they do not exist in the historical loss information, and (iii) net expected recoveries of charged off loan balances. These adjustments are based on qualitative factors not reflected in the quantitative model but are likely to impact the measurement of estimated credit losses. The expected lifetime loss rate is the life of loan loss percentage from the transition matrix model plus the impact of the adjustments for qualitative factors. The expected credit losses are the product of multiplying the model’s expected lifetime loss rate by the exposure at default at period end on an undiscounted basis.
Valley utilizes a two-year reasonable and supportable forecast period followed by a one-year period over which estimated losses revert to historical loss experience for the remaining life of the loan on a straight-line basis. The forecasts consist of a multi-scenario economic forecast model to estimate future credit losses that is governed by a cross-functional committee. The committee meets each quarter to determine which economic scenarios developed by Moody's will be incorporated into the model, as well as the relative probability weightings of the selected scenarios, based upon all readily available information. The model projects economic variables under each scenario based on detailed statistical analyses. Valley has identified and selected key variables that most closely correlated to its historical credit performance, which include: GDP, unemployment and the Case-Shiller Home Price Index.
The loan credit quality data utilized in the transition matrix model is based on an internal credit risk rating system for the commercial and industrial loan and commercial real estate loan portfolio segments and delinquency aging status for the residential and consumer loan portfolio segments. Loans are risk-rated based on an internal credit risk grading process that evaluates, among other things: (i) the obligor’s ability to repay; (ii) the underlying collateral, if any; and (iii) the economic environment and industry in which the borrower operates. This analysis is performed at the relationship manager level for all commercial and industrial loans and commercial real estate loans, and evaluated by the Loan Review Department on a test basis. Loans with a grade that are below a “Pass” grade are adversely classified. Once a loan becomes adversely classified, it automatically transitions from the "Pass" segment of the model to the corresponding adversely rated pool segment. Within the transition matrix model, each adverse classification or segment (Special Mention, Substandard, Doubtful, and Loss) has its own lifetime expected credit loss rate derived from loan-level historical transitions between the different loan risk ratings categories.
Reserves for loans that that do not share common risk characteristics. Valley measures specific reserves for individual loans that do not share common risk characteristics with other loans, consisting of collateral dependent, troubled debt restructured (TDR) loans, and expected TDR loans, based on the amount of lifetime expected credit losses calculated on those loans and charge-offs of those amounts determined to be uncollectible. Factors considered by Valley in measuring the extent of expected credit loss include payment status, collateral value, borrower financial condition, guarantor support and the probability of collecting scheduled principal and interest payments when due. Collateral dependent loan balances are written down to the estimated current fair value (less estimated selling costs) of each loan’s underlying collateral resulting in an immediate charge-off to the allowance, excluding any consideration for personal guarantees that may be pursued in the Bank’s collection process. If repayment is based upon future expected cash flows, the present value of the expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s original effective interest rate is compared to the carrying value of the loan, and any shortfall is recorded as the allowance for credit losses. The effective interest rate used to discount expected cash flows is adjusted to incorporate expected prepayments, if applicable.
Valley elected to exclude accrued interest on loans from the amortized cost of loans held for investment. The accrued interest is presented separately in the consolidated statements of financial condition.
Loans charge-offs. Loans rated as "loss" within Valley's internal rating system are charged-off. Commercial loans are generally assessed for full or partial charge-off to the net realizable value for collateral dependent loans when a loan is between 90 or 120 days past due or sooner if it is probable that a loan may not be fully collectable. Residential loans and home equity loans are generally charged-off to net realizable value when the loan is 120 days past due (or sooner when the borrowers’ obligation has been released in bankruptcy). Automobile loans are fully charged-off when the loan is 120 days past due or partially charged-off to the net realizable value of collateral, if the collateral is recovered prior to such time. Unsecured consumer loans are generally fully charged-off when the loan is 150 days past due.
Allowance for Unfunded Credit Commitments
The allowance for unfunded credit commitments consists of undisbursed non-cancellable lines of credit, new loan commitments and commercial letters of credit valued using a similar CECL methodology as used for loans. Management's estimate of expected losses inherent in these off-balance sheet credit exposures also incorporates estimated utilization rate over the commitment's contractual period or an expected pull-through rate for new loan commitments. The allowance for unfunded credit commitments is included in accrued expenses and other liabilities on the consolidated statements of financial condition.
See Note 5 for a discussion of Valley’s loan credit quality and additional allowance for credit losses.
Leases
Lessor Arrangements. Valley's lessor arrangements primarily consist of direct financing and sales-type leases for equipment included in the commercial and industrial loan portfolio. Direct financing and sales-type leases are carried at the aggregate of lease payments receivable plus estimated residual value of the leased assets, net of unearned income, charge-offs and unamortized deferred costs of origination. Lease agreements may include options to renew and for the lessee to purchase the leased equipment at the end of the lease term.
Lessee Arrangements. Valley's lessee arrangements predominantly consist of operating and finance leases for premises and equipment. The majority of the operating leases include one or more options to renew that can significantly extend the lease terms. Valley’s leases have a wide range of lease expirations through the year 2062.
Operating and finance leases are recognized as right of use (ROU) assets and lease liabilities in the consolidated statements of financial position. The ROU assets represent the right to use underlying assets for the lease terms and lease liabilities represent Valley’s obligations to make lease payments arising from the lease. The ROU assets include any prepaid lease payments and initial direct costs, less any lease incentives. At the commencement dates of leases, ROU assets and lease liabilities are initially recognized based on their net present values with the lease terms including options to extend or terminate the lease when Valley is reasonably certain that the options will be exercised to extend. ROU assets are amortized into net occupancy and equipment expense over the expected lives of the leases.
Lease liabilities are discounted to their net present values on the balance sheet based on incremental borrowing rates as determined at the lease commencement dates using quoted interest rates for readily available borrowings, such as fixed rate FHLB borrowings, with similar terms as the lease obligations. Lease liabilities are reduced by actual lease payments.
See Note 6 for additional information on Valley's lease related assets and obligations.
Premises and Equipment, Net
Premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets. Estimated useful lives range from 3 years for capitalized software to up to 40 years for buildings. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the term of the lease or estimated useful life of the asset, whichever is shorter. Major improvements are capitalized, while repairs and maintenance costs are charged to operations as incurred. Upon retirement or disposition, any gain or loss is credited or charged to operations. See Note 7 for further details.
Bank Owned Life Insurance
Valley owns bank owned life insurance (BOLI) to help offset the cost of employee benefits. BOLI is recorded at its cash surrender value. Valley’s BOLI is invested primarily in U.S. Treasury securities and residential mortgage-backed securities issued by government sponsored enterprises and Ginnie Mae. The majority of the underlying investment portfolio is managed by one independent investment firm. The change in the cash surrender value is included as a component of non-interest income and is exempt from federal and state income taxes as long as the policies are held until the death of the insured individuals.
Other Real Estate Owned
Valley acquires other real estate owned (OREO) through foreclosure on loans secured by real estate. OREO is reported at the lower of cost or fair value, as established by a current appraisal (less estimated costs to sell) and it is included in other assets. Any write-downs at the date of foreclosure are charged to the allowance for loan losses. Expenses incurred to maintain these properties, unrealized losses resulting from valuation write-downs after the date of foreclosure, and realized gains and losses upon sale of the properties are included in other non-interest expense. OREO totaled $2.3 million and $5.1 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. OREO included foreclosed residential real estate properties totaling $1.0 million at December 31, 2020. There were no foreclosed residential real estate properties included in OREO at December 31, 2021.
Residential mortgage and consumer loans secured by residential real estate properties for which formal foreclosure proceedings are in process totaled $2.5 million and $1.9 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Goodwill
Intangible assets resulting from acquisitions under the acquisition method of accounting consist of goodwill and other intangible assets (see “Other Intangible Assets” below). Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of businesses acquired over the fair value of the net assets acquired and is not amortized. The initial recording of goodwill and other intangible assets requires subjective judgments concerning estimates of the fair value of the acquired assets and assumed liabilities. Goodwill is subject to annual tests for impairment or more often, if events or circumstances indicate it may be impaired.
On January 1, 2020, Valley adopted ASU No. 2017-04 "Intangibles—Goodwill and Other (Topic 350) Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment," which simplified the impairment test by eliminating the step two requirement to calculate the implied fair value of goodwill to measure a goodwill impairment charge. Instead, an impairment loss is recognized if the carrying value of the net assets assigned to the reporting unit exceeds the fair value of the reporting unit, with the impairment loss not to exceed the amount of goodwill allocated to the unit (formerly step one of the two-step test). Goodwill is allocated to Valley's reporting unit, which is a business segment or one level below, at the date goodwill is recorded. Under current accounting guidance, Valley may choose to perform an optional qualitative assessment to determine whether it is necessary to perform the single-step quantitative goodwill impairment test for one or more reporting units each annual period.
Valley reviews goodwill for impairment annually during the second quarter using a quantitative test, or more frequently if a triggering event indicates impairment may have occurred. Our determination of whether or not goodwill is impaired requires us to make judgments, and use significant estimates and assumptions regarding estimated future cash flows. If we change our strategy or if market conditions shift, our judgments may change, which may result in adjustments to the recorded goodwill balance.
Other Intangible Assets
Other intangible assets primarily consist of loan servicing rights (largely generated from loan servicing retained by the Bank on residential mortgage loan originations sold in the secondary market to government sponsored enterprises), core deposits (the portion of an acquisition purchase price which represents value assigned to the existing deposit base) and, to a much lesser extent, various other types of intangibles obtained through acquisitions. Other intangible assets are amortized using various methods over their estimated lives and are periodically evaluated for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable from future undiscounted cash flows. If impairment is deemed to exist, an adjustment is recorded to earnings in the current period for the difference between the fair value of the asset and its carrying amount. See further details regarding loan servicing rights below.
Loan Servicing Rights
Loan servicing rights are recorded when originated mortgage loans are sold with servicing rights retained, or when servicing rights are purchased. Valley initially records the loan servicing rights at fair value. Subsequently, the loan servicing rights are carried at the lower of unamortized cost or market (i.e., fair value). The fair values of the loan servicing rights for each risk-stratified group of loan servicing rights are calculated using a fair value model from a third party vendor that uses various inputs and assumptions, including but not limited to, prepayment speeds, internal rate of return (“discount rate”), servicing cost, ancillary income, float rate, tax rate, and inflation. The prepayment speed and the discount rate are considered two of the most significant inputs in the model.
Unamortized costs associated with acquiring loan servicing rights, net of any valuation allowances, are included in other intangible assets in the consolidated statements of financial condition and are accounted for using the amortization method. Valley amortizes the loan servicing assets in proportion to and over the period of estimated net servicing revenues. On a quarterly basis, Valley stratifies its loan servicing assets into groupings based on risk characteristics and assesses each group for impairment based on fair value. A valuation allowance is established through an impairment charge to earnings to the extent the unamortized cost of a stratified group of loan servicing rights exceeds its estimated fair value. Increases in the fair value of impaired loan servicing rights are recognized as a reduction of the valuation allowance, but not in excess of such allowance. The amortization of loan servicing rights is recorded in non-interest income.
Stock-Based Compensation
Compensation expense for restricted stock units, restricted stock and stock option awards (i.e., non-vested stock awards) is based on the fair value of the award on the date of the grant and is recognized ratably over the service period of the award. Valley's long-term incentive compensation plan includes a service period requirement for award grantees who are eligible for retirement pursuant to which an award will vest at one-twelfth per month after the grant date and requires the grantees to continue service with Valley for one year in order for the award to fully vest. Compensation expense for these awards is amortized monthly over a one year period after the grant date. The service period for non-retirement eligible employees is the shorter of the stated vesting period of the award or the period until the employee’s retirement eligibility date. The fair value of each option granted is estimated using a binomial option pricing model. The fair value of restricted stock units and awards is based upon the last sale price reported for Valley’s common stock on the date of grant or the last sale price reported preceding such date, except for performance-based stock awards with a market condition. The grant date fair value of a performance-based stock award that vests based on a market condition is determined by a third party specialist using a Monte Carlo valuation model. See Note 12 for additional information.
Business Combinations
Business combinations are accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting. Acquired assets, including separately identifiable intangible assets, and assumed liabilities are recorded at their acquisition-date estimated fair values. The excess of the cost of acquisition over these fair values is recognized as goodwill. During the measurement period, which cannot exceed one year from the acquisition date, changes to estimated fair values are recognized as an adjustment to goodwill. Certain transaction costs are expensed as incurred.
Fair Value Measurements
In general, fair values of financial instruments are based upon quoted market prices, where available. When observable market prices and parameters are not fully available, management uses valuation techniques based upon internal and third party models requiring more management judgment to estimate the appropriate fair value measurements. Valuation adjustments may be made to ensure that financial instruments are recorded at fair value, including adjustments based on internal cash flow model projections that utilize assumptions similar to those incorporated by market participants. Other adjustments may include amounts to reflect counterparty credit quality and Valley’s creditworthiness, among other things, as well as unobservable parameters. Any such valuation adjustments are applied consistently over time. See Note 3 for additional information.
Revenue Recognition
Valley's revenue contracts generally have a single performance obligation, as the promise to transfer the individual goods or services is not separately identifiable, or distinct from other obligations within the contracts. Valley does not have a material amount of long-term customer agreements that include multiple performance obligations requiring price allocation and differences in the timing of revenue recognition. Valley has no customer contracts with variable fee agreements based upon performance. Valley's revenue within the scope of ASC Topic 606 includes: (i) trust and investment services income from investment management, investment, including tax credit, advisory services, trust, custody and other products; (ii) service charges on deposit accounts from checking accounts, savings accounts, overdrafts, insufficient funds, ATM transactions and other activities; and (iii) other income from fee income related to derivative interest rate swaps executed with commercial loan customers, fees from interchange, wire transfers, credit cards, safe deposit box, ACH, lockbox and various other products and services-related income.
Income Taxes
Valley uses the asset and liability method to provide income taxes on all transactions recorded in the consolidated financial statements. This method requires that income taxes reflect the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets or liabilities for book and tax purposes. Accordingly, a deferred tax asset or liability for each temporary difference is determined based on the enacted tax rates that will be in effect when the underlying items of income and expense are expected to be realized.
Valley’s expense for income taxes includes the current and deferred portions of that expense. Deferred tax assets are recognized if, in management's judgment, their realizability is determined to be more likely than not. A valuation allowance is established to reduce deferred tax assets to the amount we expect to realize. Deferred income tax expense or benefit results from differences between assets and liabilities measured for financial reporting versus income-tax return purposes. The effect on deferred taxes of a change in tax rates is recognized in income tax expense in the period that includes the enactment date.
Valley maintains a reserve related to certain tax positions that management believes contain an element of uncertainty. An uncertain tax position is measured based on the largest amount of benefit that management believes is more likely than not to be realized. Periodically, Valley evaluates each of its tax positions and strategies to determine whether the reserve continues to be appropriate.
Comprehensive Income
Comprehensive income or loss is defined as the change in equity of a business entity during a period due to transactions and other events and circumstances, excluding those resulting from investments by and distributions to shareholders. Comprehensive income consists of net income and other comprehensive income or loss. Valley’s components of other comprehensive income or loss, net of deferred tax, include: (i) unrealized gains and losses on debt securities available for sale; (ii) unrealized gains and losses on derivatives used in cash flow hedging relationships; and (iii) the pension benefit adjustment for the unfunded portion of its various employee, officer, and director pension plans. Income tax effects are released from accumulated other comprehensive income on an individual unit of account basis. Valley presents comprehensive income and its components in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income for all periods presented. See Note 19 for additional disclosures.
Earnings Per Common Share
In Valley's computation of the earnings per common share, the numerator of both the basic and diluted earnings per common share is net income available to common shareholders (which is equal to net income less dividends on preferred stock). The weighted average number of common shares outstanding used in the denominator for basic earnings per common share is increased to determine the denominator used for diluted earnings per common share by the effect of potentially dilutive common stock equivalents utilizing the treasury stock method.
The following table shows the calculation of both basic and diluted earnings per common share for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2021 | | 2020 | | 2019 |
| (in thousands, except for share data) |
Net income available to common shareholders | $ | 461,152 | | | $ | 377,918 | | | $ | 297,105 | |
Basic weighted-average number of common shares outstanding | 407,445,379 | | | 403,754,356 | | | 337,792,270 | |
Plus: Common stock equivalents | 2,572,949 | | | 1,291,851 | | | 2,325,538 | |
Diluted weighted-average number of common shares outstanding | 410,018,328 | | | 405,046,207 | | | 340,117,808 | |
Earnings per common share: | | | | | |
Basic | $ | 1.13 | | | $ | 0.94 | | | $ | 0.88 | |
Diluted | 1.12 | | | 0.93 | | | 0.87 | |
Common stock equivalents represent the dilutive effect of additional common shares issuable upon the assumed vesting or exercise, if applicable, of restricted stock units and common stock options to purchase Valley’s common shares. Common stock options with exercise prices that exceed the average market price of Valley’s common stock during the periods presented may have an anti-dilutive effect on the diluted earnings per common share calculation and therefore are excluded from the diluted earnings per share calculation along with restricted stock units. Potential anti-dilutive weighted common shares totaled approximately 411 thousand, 1.7 million, and 288 thousand for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
Preferred and Common Stock Dividends
Valley issued 4.6 million and 4.0 million shares of non-cumulative perpetual preferred stock in June 2015 and August 2017, respectively, which were initially recorded at fair value. See Note 18 for additional details on the preferred stock issuances. The preferred shares are senior to Valley common stock, whereas the current year dividends must be paid before Valley can pay dividends to its common shareholders. Preferred dividends declared are deducted from net income for computing income available to common shareholders and earnings per common share computations.
Cash dividends to both preferred and common shareholders are payable and accrued when declared by Valley's Board of Directors.
Treasury Stock
Treasury stock is recorded using the cost method and accordingly is presented as a reduction of shareholders’ equity.
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities
As part of its asset/liability management strategies and to accommodate commercial borrowers, Valley has used interest rate swaps to hedge variability in cash flows or fair values caused by changes in interest rates. Valley also uses derivatives not designated as hedges for non-speculative purposes to (1) manage its exposure to interest rate movements related to a service for commercial lending customers, (2) share the risk of default on the interest rate swaps related to certain purchased or sold loan participations through the use of risk participation agreements and (3) manage the interest rate risk of mortgage banking activities with customer interest rate lock commitments and forward contracts to sell residential mortgage loans. Valley also has hybrid instruments, consisting of market linked certificates of deposit with an embedded swap contract. Valley records all derivatives including embedded derivatives as assets or liabilities at fair value on the consolidated statements of financial condition. Derivatives used to hedge the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows, or other types of forecasted transactions, are considered cash flow hedges. Derivatives used to hedge the exposure to changes in the fair value of an asset, liability, or firm commitment attributable to a particular risk, such as interest rate risk, are considered fair value hedges.
Cash Flow Hedges. For derivatives designated as cash flow hedges, the effective portion of changes in the fair value of the derivative is initially reported in other comprehensive income or loss and subsequently reclassified to earnings when the hedged transaction affects earnings, and the ineffective portion of changes in the fair value of the derivative is recognized directly in earnings. Valley calculates the credit valuation adjustments to the fair value of derivatives designated as fair value hedges on a net basis by counterparty portfolio, as an accounting policy election.
Fair Value Hedges. For derivatives designated as fair value hedges, changes in the fair value of the derivative and the hedged item related to the hedged risk are recognized in earnings. On a quarterly basis, Valley assesses the effectiveness of each hedging relationship by comparing the changes in cash flows or fair value of the derivative hedging instrument with the changes in cash flows or fair value of the designated hedged item or transaction. If a hedging relationship is terminated due to ineffectiveness, and the derivative instrument is not re-designated to a new hedging relationship, the subsequent change in fair value of such instrument is charged directly to earnings.
Interest Rate Contracts and Other Non-designated Hedges. Derivatives not designated as hedges do not meet the hedge accounting requirements under U.S. GAAP. Contracts in an asset position are included in other assets and contracts in a liability position are included in other liabilities. Changes in fair value of derivatives not designated in hedging relationships are recorded directly in earnings within other non-interest expense.
New Authoritative Accounting Guidance
New Accounting Guidance Issued and Adopted in 2020. ASU No. 2020-04, "Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848)" provides optional expedients and exceptions for applying U.S. GAAP to contract modifications and hedging relationships that reference LIBOR or another reference rate expected to be discontinued, subject to meeting certain criteria. Under the new guidance, an entity can elect by accounting topic or industry subtopic to account for the modification of a contract affected by reference rate reform as a continuation of the existing contract, if certain conditions are met. In addition, the new guidance allows an entity to elect on a hedge-by-hedge basis to continue to apply hedge accounting for hedging relationships in which the critical terms change due to reference rate reform, if certain conditions are met. A one-time election to sell and/or transfer held to maturity debt securities that reference a rate affected by reference rate reform is also allowed. ASU No. 2020-04 became effective for all entities as of March 12, 2020 and can apply to all LIBOR reference rate modifications any time through December 31, 2022.
Valley’s LIBOR project working group, consisting of key stakeholders from throughout Valley, continue to monitor new developments for transitioning to alternative reference rates to align with regulatory guidelines. Valley has provided both internal and external communications that reference and educate customers and associates regarding the LIBOR transition and continues to update fall back language that reference LIBOR-based rates to ensure full reference rates change readiness. Valley’s technology systems have been updated to handle the new replacement rates. Valley started originating and renewing loans at new alternative benchmark rates after December 31, 2021. SOFR and Term SOFR are the preferred rates for loans and derivatives. Loans that were closed before December 31, 2021, may continue to be priced using LIBOR until June 30, 2023. Management is still assessing the expected impact of LIBOR cessation on Valley’s consolidated financial statements.
New Accounting Guidance Adopted in 2021. ASU No. 2020-08, "Codification Improvements to Subtopic 310-20, Receivables—Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs" provides clarification and affects the guidance previously issued by ASU No. 2017-08 “Receivables - Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs (Subtopic 310-20): Premium Amortization on Purchased
Callable Debt Securities.” ASU No. 2020-08 clarifies that an entity should reevaluate whether a debt security with multiple call dates is within the scope of paragraph 310-20-35-33. For each reporting period, to the extent that the amortized cost basis of an individual callable debt security exceeds the amount repayable by the issuer at the next call date, the premium should be amortized to the next call date, unless the guidance to consider estimated prepayments is applied. Valley adopted ASU No. 2020-08 on January 1, 2021 and the new guidance did not have a significant impact on Valley’s consolidated financial statements
New Accounting Guidance Issued in 2021. ASU No. 2021-01 "Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848)" extends some of Accounting Standards Codification Topic 848’s optional expedients to derivative contracts impacted by the discounting transition, including for derivatives that do not reference LIBOR or other reference rates that are expected to be discontinued. ASU No. 2021-01 is effective for all entities immediately upon issuance and may be elected retrospectively to eligible modifications as of any date from the beginning of the interim period that includes March 12, 2020, or prospectively to new modifications made on or after any date within the interim period including January 7, 2021 and it can be applied through December 31, 2022, similar to the other reference rate reform relief provided under Topic 848. ASU No. 2021-01 is not expected to have a significant impact on Valley’s consolidated financial statements.
ASU No. 2021-05 "Lessors – Certain Leases with Variable Lease Payments". ASU No. 2021-05 updates guidance in Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 842, Leases and requires a lessor to classify a lease with variable lease payments that do not depend on an index or rate as an operating lease at lease commencement if: (i) the lease would have been classified as a sales-type lease or direct financing lease under ASC 842 classification criteria; and (ii) the lessor would have recognized a selling loss at lease commencement. ASU No. 2021-05 is effective for Valley for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2021, with early adoption permitted. ASU No. 2021-05 is not expected to have a significant impact on Valley’s consolidated financial statements
BUSINESS COMBINATIONS (Note 2)
Acquisitions
The Westchester Bank Holding Corporation
On December 1, 2021, Valley completed its acquisition of The Westchester Bank Holding Corporation (Westchester) and its principal subsidiary, The Westchester Bank which was headquartered in White Plains, New York. As of December 1, 2021, Westchester had approximately $1.4 billion in assets, $915.0 million in loans, and $1.2 billion in deposits, after purchase accounting adjustments, and a branch network of seven locations in Westchester County, New York. The common shareholders of Westchester received 229.645 shares of Valley common stock for each Westchester share they owned prior to the merger. The total consideration for the merger was $211.1 million, consisting of approximately 15.7 million shares of Valley common stock.
The transaction was accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting and accordingly the results of Westchester's operations have been included in Valley's consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2021 from the date of acquisition.
The following table sets forth assets acquired, and liabilities assumed in the Westchester acquisition, at their estimated fair values as of the closing date of the transaction:
| | | | | | | | | |
| | | December 1, 2021 | | |
| | | | | |
| | | ($ in thousands) |
Assets acquired: | | | | | |
Cash and cash equivalents | | | $ | 332,221 | | | |
Held to maturity debt securities | | | 9,197 | | | |
Loans, net | | | 908,023 | | | |
Premises and equipment | | | 1,356 | | | |
Right of use asset | | | 5,873 | | | |
Bank owned life insurance | | | 28,756 | | | |
Accrued interest receivable | | | 2,179 | | | |
Goodwill | | | 63,469 | | | |
Other intangible assets | | | 8,130 | | | |
Other assets | | | 22,861 | | | |
Total assets acquired | | | $ | 1,382,065 | | | |
Liabilities assumed: | | | | | |
Deposits: | | | | | |
Non-interest bearing | | | $ | 434,780 | | | |
Savings, NOW and money market | | | 636,569 | | | |
Time deposits | | | 90,635 | | | |
| | | | | |
Total deposits | | | 1,161,984 | | | |
Lease liabilities | | | 5,873 | | | |
Accrued expense and other liabilities | | | 3,074 | | | |
Total liabilities assumed | | | $ | 1,170,931 | | | |
Common stock issued in acquisition | | | $ | 211,134 | | | |
| | | | | |
The determination of the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed required management to make estimates about discount rates, future expected cash flows, market conditions, and other future events that are highly subjective in nature and subject to change. The fair value estimates are subject to change for up to one year after the closing date of the transaction if additional information (existing at the date of closing) relative to closing date fair values becomes available.
Fair Value Measurement of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed
Described below are the methods used to determine the fair values of the significant assets acquired and liabilities assumed in Westchester acquisition.
Cash and cash equivalents. The estimated fair values of cash and cash equivalents approximate their stated face amounts, as these financial instruments are either due on demand or have short-term maturities.
Investment securities. The investment securities acquired from Westchester were classified as held to maturity debt securities based on Valley's intent at the acquisition date. The estimated fair values of the investment securities were calculated utilizing Level 2 inputs similar to the valuation techniques used for Valley's investment portfolios detailed in Note 3.
Loans. The acquired loan portfolio was recorded at its estimated value based on a discounted cash flow methodology. The acquired loan portfolio was segregated into categories for valuation purposes primarily based on loan type (commercial and industrial, commercial real estate, multifamily, construction, home equity and other consumer) and credit risk rating. The estimated fair value incorporates adjustments related to market loss assumptions and prevailing market interest rates for comparable assets and other market factors such as liquidity from the perspective of a market participant. Management estimated the cash flows expected to be collected at the acquisition date by using valuation models that incorporated loan contractual characteristics (such as payment type, amortization type, and term to maturity) as well as estimates of key valuation assumptions (such as prepayment speeds, default rates, and loss severity rates). The expected cash flows from the acquired loan
portfolios were discounted to present value based on estimated market rates. The market rates were estimated using a buildup approach based on the following components: funding cost, servicing cost, and consideration of liquidity premium. In addition, coupon rates for recently originated loans and available market data regarding origination rates were also considered in the analysis. The methods used to estimate the Level 3 fair values of loans are extremely sensitive to the assumptions and estimates used. While management attempted to use assumptions and estimates that best reflected the acquired loan portfolios and current market conditions, a greater degree of subjectivity is inherent in these values than in those determined in active markets. Also, acquired portfolio loans and leases were evaluated upon acquisition and classified as either PCD, which indicates that the loan has experienced a more-than-insignificant deterioration in credit quality since origination, or non-PCD. Valley considered a variety of factors in evaluating the acquired loans for a more-than-insignificant deterioration in credit quality, including but not limited to risk grades, delinquency, non-performing status, current or previous troubled debt restructurings, watch list credits and other qualitative factors that indicated a deterioration in credit quality since origination.
For PCD loans, an initial allowance was determined based on Valley’s CECL methodology and was added to the acquisition date fair value of each PCD loan to establish its initial amortized cost basis. The difference between the unpaid principal balance of loans and the calculated amortized cost basis resulted in a net non-credit discount totaling $8.5 million. The net discount is expected be accreted into interest income on a level-yield method over an average contractual life of the loans totaling 8 years.
The following table provides a reconciliation of the difference between the purchase price and the par value of the PCD loans acquired from Westchester:
| | | | | | | | |
| | December 1, 2021 |
| | ($ in thousands) |
Purchase price of PCD loans | | $ | 346,883 | |
Allowance for credit losses at acquisition | | 6,542 | |
Non-credit discount at acquisition | | 8,457 | |
Par value of acquired PCD loans | | $ | 361,882 | |
Other intangible assets. Other intangible assets consisting of core deposit intangibles (CDI) are measures of the value of non-maturity checking, savings, NOW and money market customer deposits that are acquired in a business combination. The fair value for CDI was estimated based on a discounted cash flow methodology that gave appropriate consideration to expected customer attrition rates, net maintenance cost of the deposit base, alternative costs of funds, and the interest costs associated with the customer deposits. The CDI is amortized over an estimated useful life of 10 years to approximate the existing deposit relationships acquired.
Deposits. The fair values of deposit liabilities with no stated maturity (i.e., non-interest bearing accounts and savings, NOW and money market accounts) are equal to the carrying amounts payable on demand. The fair values of certificates of deposit represent contractual cash flows, discounted to present value using interest rates currently offered on deposits with similar characteristics and remaining maturities.
Dudley Ventures
On October 8, 2021, Valley acquired certain subsidiaries of Arizona-based Dudley Ventures (DV), an advisory firm specializing in the investment and management of tax credits. The transaction included the acquisition of DV Fund Advisors and DV Advisory Services which were both subsequently merged and renamed Dudley Ventures, as well as DV's community development entity, DV Community Investment. The transaction price included $11.3 million of cash at the closing date and fixed future stock consideration totaling $3.8 million. On November 16, 2021, Valley also acquired DV Financial Services, a registered broker-dealer regulated by FINRA, which is largely inactive. Goodwill and other intangible assets related to the acquired DV entities totaled $13.1 million and $2.1 million, respectively. See Note 8 for further details.
Oritani Financial Corp.
On December 1, 2019, Valley completed its acquisition of Oritani Financial Corp. (Oritani) and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Oritani Bank. Oritani had approximately $4.3 billion in assets, $3.4 billion in net loans and $2.9 billion in deposits, after purchase accounting adjustments, and a branch network of 26 locations. The common shareholders of Oritani received 1.60 shares of Valley common stock for each Oritani share that they owned prior to the merger. The total consideration for the acquisition was approximately $835.3 million, consisting of 71.1 million shares of Valley common stock and the outstanding Oritani stock-based awards.
During 2020, Valley revised the estimated fair values of the acquired assets as of the Oritani acquisition date due to additional information obtained that existed as of December 1, 2019. The adjustments mostly related to the fair value of certain loans, current taxes payable and the valuation of deferred tax assets as of the acquisition date. These adjustments resulted in an $8.8 million increase in goodwill (see Note 8 for amount of goodwill as allocated to Valley's business segments).
Had the acquisition of Oritani taken place in the beginning of 2019. Valley’s revenues (defined as the sum of net interest income and non-interest income), net income, basic earnings per share, and diluted earnings per share would have equaled the amounts indicated in the following table for the year ended December 31, 2019:
| | | | | |
| |
| 2019 |
(in thousands, except per share data) | Unaudited |
Revenues | $ | 1,219,887 | |
Net income | 361,079 | |
Basic earnings per share | 0.86 | |
Diluted earnings per share | 0.85 | |
Pending Acquisition (Unaudited)
Bank Leumi Le-Israel Corporation
On September 23, 2021, Valley announced that it will acquire Bank Leumi Le-Israel Corporation, the U.S. subsidiary of Bank Leumi Le-Israel B.M., and parent company of Bank Leumi USA, and collectively referred to as "Bank Leumi USA". Bank Leumi USA maintains its headquarters in New York City and also has commercial banking offices in Chicago, Los Angeles, Palo Alto, and Aventura, Florida. As of December 31, 2021, Bank Leumi USA had total assets of $8.3 billion, total deposits of $7.1 billion, and gross loans of $5.7 billion. The common stockholders of Bank Leumi USA will receive 3.8025 shares of Valley common stock and $5.08 in cash (subject to specified adjustments) for each Bank Leumi USA common share they own. Based on Valley’s closing stock price on December 31, 2021, the transaction is valued at an estimated $1.2 billion, inclusive of the value of options and upon completion of the acquisition, Bank Leumi Le-Israel B.M. will own approximately 14 percent of Valley's common stock. Valley has received regulatory approval from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, as well as Valley shareholder approval of the issuance of Valley common stock in connection with the acquisition. The acquisition remains subject to regulatory approval by the New York State Department of Financial Services, as well as other customary closing conditions. The acquisition is anticipated to close in the second quarter 2022.
Merger expenses for all Valley acquisition related activities totaled $8.9 million, $1.9 million and $16.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The merger expenses mainly consisted of salary and employee benefits, as well as professional and legal, net occupancy and equipment, and other expenses included in non-interest expense on the consolidated statements of income.
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES (Note 3)
Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Topic 820, “Fair Value Measurement” establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements). The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are described below:
•Level 1 - Unadjusted exchange quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities, or identical liabilities traded as assets that the reporting entity has the ability to access at the measurement date.
•Level 2 - Quoted prices in markets that are not active, or inputs that are observable either directly or indirectly (i.e., quoted prices on similar assets) for substantially the full term of the asset or liability.
•Level 3 - Prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable (i.e., supported by little or no market activity).
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis and Non-Recurring Basis
The following tables present the assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring and non-recurring basis by level within the fair value hierarchy as reported on the consolidated statements of financial condition at December 31, 2021 and 2020. The assets presented under “non-recurring fair value measurements” in the table below are not measured at fair value on an ongoing basis but are subject to fair value adjustments under certain circumstances (e.g., when an impairment loss is recognized).
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using: |
| December 31, 2021 | | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) |
| (in thousands) |
Recurring fair value measurements: | | | | | | | |
Assets | | | | | | | |
Investment securities: | | | | | | | |
Equity securities (1) | $ | 32,844 | | | $ | 21,284 | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | |
Trading debt securities | 38,130 | | | — | | | 38,130 | | | — | |
Available for sale debt securities: | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
U.S. government agency securities | 20,925 | | | — | | | 20,925 | | | — | |
Obligations of states and political subdivisions | 79,890 | | | — | | | 79,890 | | | — | |
Residential mortgage-backed securities | 904,502 | | | — | | | 904,502 | | | — | |
| | | | | | | |
Corporate and other debt securities | 123,492 | | | — | | | 123,492 | | | — | |
Total available for sale debt securities | 1,128,809 | | | — | | | 1,128,809 | | | — | |
Loans held for sale (2) | 139,516 | | | — | | | 139,516 | | | — | |
Other assets (3) | 181,500 | | | — | | | 181,500 | | | — | |
Total assets | $ | 1,520,799 | | | $ | 21,284 | | | $ | 1,487,955 | | | $ | — | |
Liabilities | | | | | | | |
Other liabilities (3) | $ | 52,376 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 52,376 | | | $ | — | |
Total liabilities | $ | 52,376 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 52,376 | | | $ | — | |
Non-recurring fair value measurements: | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
Collateral dependent loans | $ | 47,871 | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | 47,871 | |
| | | | | | | |
Foreclosed assets | 2,931 | | | — | | | — | | | 2,931 | |
Total | $ | 50,802 | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | 50,802 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using: |
| December 31, 2020 | | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) |
| (in thousands) |
Recurring fair value measurements: | | | | | | | |
Assets | | | | | | | |
Investment securities: | | | | | | | |
Equity securities (1) | $ | 26,379 | | | $ | 18,600 | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | |
Available for sale debt securities: | | | | | | | |
U.S. Treasury securities | 51,393 | | | 51,393 | | | — | | | — | |
U.S. government agency securities | 26,157 | | | — | | | 26,157 | | | — | |
Obligations of states and political subdivisions | 79,950 | | | — | | | 79,135 | | | 815 | |
Residential mortgage-backed securities | 1,090,022 | | | — | | | 1,090,022 | | | — | |
| | | | | | | |
Corporate and other debt securities | 91,951 | | | — | | | 91,951 | | | — | |
| | | | | | | |
Total available for sale debt securities | 1,339,473 | | | 51,393 | | | 1,287,265 | | | 815 | |
Loans held for sale (2) | 301,427 | | | — | | | 301,427 | | | — | |
Other assets (3) | 387,452 | | | — | | | 387,452 | | | — | |
Total assets | $ | 2,054,731 | | | $ | 69,993 | | | $ | 1,976,144 | | | $ | 815 | |
Liabilities | | | | | | | |
Other liabilities (3) | $ | 156,281 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 156,281 | | | $ | — | |
Total liabilities | $ | 156,281 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 156,281 | | | $ | — | |
Non-recurring fair value measurements: | | | | | | | |
Collateral dependent impaired loans | $ | 35,228 | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | 35,228 | |
Loan servicing rights | 15,603 | | | — | | | — | | | 15,603 | |
Foreclosed assets | 7,387 | | | — | | | — | | | 7,387 | |
Total | $ | 58,218 | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | 58,218 | |
(1)Includes equity securities measured as net asset value (NAV) per share (or its equivalent) as a practical expedient totaling $11.6 million and $7.8 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. These securities have not been classified in the fair value hierarchy.
(2)Represents residential mortgage loans held for sale that are carried at fair value and had contractual unpaid principal balances totaling approximately $136.3 million and $286.4 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
(3)Derivative financial instruments are included in this category.
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
The following valuation techniques were used for financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis. All of the valuation techniques described below apply to the unpaid principal balance, excluding any accrued interest or dividends at the measurement date. Interest income and expense are recorded within the consolidated statements of income depending on the nature of the instrument using the effective interest method based on acquired discount or premium.
Equity securities. The fair value of equity securities consists of a publicly traded mutual fund, Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) investment fund and an investment related to the development of new financial technologies that are carried at quoted prices in active markets. Valley also has privately held CRA funds measured at NAV, which are excluded from fair value hierarchy levels in the tables above.
Trading debt securities. The fair value of trading debt securities, consisting of municipal bonds, is reported at fair value utilizing Level 2 inputs. The prices for these investments are derived from market quotations and matrix pricing obtained through an independent pricing service. Management reviews the data and assumptions used in pricing the securities by its third-party provider to ensure the highest level of significant inputs are derived from market observable data.
Available for sale debt securities. U.S. Treasury securities are reported at fair value utilizing Level 1 inputs. The majority of other investment securities are reported at fair value utilizing Level 2 inputs. The prices for these instruments are obtained through an independent pricing service or dealer market participants with whom Valley has historically transacted both purchases and sales of investment securities. Prices obtained from these sources include prices derived from market quotations and matrix pricing. The fair value measurements consider observable data that may include dealer quotes, market spreads, cash flows, the U.S. Treasury yield curve, live trading levels, trade execution data, market consensus prepayment speeds, credit information and the bond’s terms and conditions, among other things. Management reviews the data and assumptions used in pricing the securities by its third party provider to ensure the highest level of significant inputs are derived from market observable data. In addition, Valley reviews the volume and level of activity for all available for sale debt securities and attempts to identify transactions which may not be orderly or reflective of a significant level of activity and volume.
Loans held for sale. Residential mortgage loans originated for sale are reported at fair value using Level 2 inputs. The fair values were calculated utilizing quoted prices for similar assets in active markets. The market prices represent a delivery price, which reflects the underlying price each institution would pay Valley for an immediate sale of an aggregate pool of mortgages. Non-performance risk did not materially impact the fair value of mortgage loans held for sale at December 31, 2021 and 2020 based on the short duration these assets were held and the credit quality of these loans.
Derivatives. Derivatives are reported at fair value utilizing Level 2 inputs. The fair values of Valley’s derivatives are determined using third party prices that are based on discounted cash flow analysis using observed market inputs, such as the LIBOR, Overnight Index Swap and Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) curves for all cleared derivatives. The fair value of mortgage banking derivatives, consisting of interest rate lock commitments to fund residential mortgage loans and forward commitments for the future delivery of such loans (including certain loans held for sale at December 31, 2021 and 2020), is determined based on the current market prices for similar instruments. The fair values of most of the derivatives incorporate credit valuation adjustments, which consider the impact of any credit enhancements to the contracts, to account for potential nonperformance risk of Valley and its counterparties. The credit valuation adjustments were not significant to the overall valuation of Valley’s derivatives at December 31, 2021 and 2020.
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Non-recurring Basis
The following valuation techniques were used for certain non-financial assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis, including collateral dependent loans reported at the fair value of the underlying collateral, loan servicing rights and foreclosed assets, which are reported at fair value upon initial recognition or subsequent impairment as described below.
Collateral dependent loans. Collateral dependent loans are loans where foreclosure of the collateral is probable, or where the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty and substantially all of the repayment is expected from the collateral. Collateral values are estimated using Level 3 inputs, consisting of individual third-party appraisals that may be adjusted based on certain discounting criteria. Certain real estate appraisals may be discounted based on specific market data by location and property type. At December 31, 2021, collateral dependent loans were individually re-measured and reported at fair value through direct loan charge-offs to the allowance for loan losses based on the fair value of the underlying collateral. The collateral dependent loan direct charge-offs to the allowance for loan losses totaled $2.1 million and $4.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. At December 31, 2021, collateral dependent loans with a total amortized cost of $114.8 million and $104.4 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, including our taxi medallion loan portfolio, were reduced by specific allowance for loan losses allocations totaling $66.9 million and $69.1 million to a reported total net carrying amount of $47.9 million and $35.2 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Loan servicing rights. Fair values for each risk-stratified group of loan servicing rights are calculated using a fair value model from a third party vendor that requires inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable (Level 3). The fair value model is based on various assumptions, including but not limited to, prepayment speeds, internal rate of return (discount rate), servicing cost, ancillary income, float rate, tax rate, and inflation. The prepayment speed and the discount rate are considered two of the most significant inputs in the model. At December 31, 2021, the fair value model used a blended prepayment speed (stated as constant prepayment rates) of 12.9 percent and a discount rate of 9.0 percent for the valuation of the loan servicing rights. A significant degree of judgment is involved in valuing the loan servicing rights using Level 3 inputs. The use of different assumptions could have a significant positive or negative effect on the fair value estimate. Impairment charges are recognized on loan servicing rights when the amortized cost of a risk-stratified group of loan servicing rights exceeds the estimated fair value. Certain loan servicing rights were re-measured at fair value totaling $15.6 million at December 31, 2020. There were no loan servicing rights re-measured at fair value at December 31, 2021. See Note 8 for additional information.
Foreclosed assets. Certain foreclosed assets (consisting of other real estate owned and other repossessed assets included in other assets), upon initial recognition and transfer from loans, are re-measured and reported at fair value using Level 3 inputs, consisting of a third-party appraisal less estimated cost to sell. When an asset is acquired, the excess of the loan balance over fair value, less estimated selling costs, is charged to the allowance for loan losses. If further declines in the estimated fair value of the asset occur, an asset is re-measured and reported at fair value through a write-down recorded in non-interest expense. At December 31, 2021, the adjustments to appraisals of foreclosed assets were not material as compared to adjustments ranging from 1.5 percent to 22 percent at December 31, 2020.
Other Fair Value Disclosures
ASC Topic 825, “Financial Instruments,” requires disclosure of the fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities, including those financial assets and financial liabilities that are not measured and reported at fair value on a recurring basis or non-recurring basis.
The fair value estimates presented in the following table were based on pertinent market data and relevant information on the financial instruments available as of the valuation date. These estimates do not reflect any premium or discount that could result from offering for sale at one time the entire portfolio of financial instruments. Because no market exists for a portion of the financial instruments, fair value estimates may be based on judgments regarding future expected loss experience, 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 estimates.
Fair value estimates are based on existing balance sheet financial instruments without attempting to estimate the value of anticipated future business and the value of assets and liabilities that are not considered financial instruments. For instance, Valley has certain fee-generating business lines (e.g., its mortgage servicing operation, trust and investment management departments) that were not considered in these estimates since these activities are not financial instruments. In addition, the tax implications related to the realization of the unrealized gains and losses can have a significant effect on fair value estimates and have not been considered in any of the estimates.
The carrying amounts and estimated fair values of financial instruments not measured and not reported at fair value on the consolidated statements of financial condition at December 31, 2021 and 2020 were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | |
| | | 2021 | | 2020 |
| Fair Value Hierarchy | | Carrying Amount | | Fair Value | | Carrying Amount | | Fair Value |
| | | (in thousands) |
Financial assets | | | | | | | | | |
Cash and due from banks | Level 1 | | $ | 205,156 | | | $ | 205,156 | | | $ | 257,845 | | | $ | 257,845 | |
Interest bearing deposits with banks | Level 1 | | 1,844,764 | | | 1,844,764 | | | 1,071,360 | | | 1,071,360 | |
Equity securities (1) | Level 3 | | 3,629 | | | 3,629 | | | 2,999 | | | 2,999 | |
Held to maturity debt securities: | | | | | | | | | |
U.S. Treasury securities | Level 1 | | 67,558 | | | 71,661 | | | 68,126 | | | 75,484 | |
U.S. government agency securities | Level 2 | | 6,265 | | | 6,378 | | | 6,222 | | | 6,513 | |
Obligations of states and political subdivisions | Level 2 | | 337,962 | | | 344,164 | | | 470,259 | | | 484,506 | |
Residential mortgage-backed securities | Level 2 | | 2,166,142 | | | 2,152,301 | | | 1,550,306 | | | 1,589,655 | |
Trust preferred securities | Level 2 | | 37,020 | | | 31,916 | | | 37,348 | | | 30,033 | |
Corporate and other debt securities | Level 2 | | 53,750 | | | 54,185 | | | 40,750 | | | 41,421 | |
Total held to maturity debt securities (2) | | | 2,668,697 | | | 2,660,605 | | | 2,173,011 | | | 2,227,612 | |
Net loans | Level 3 | | 33,794,455 | | | 33,283,251 | | | 31,876,869 | | | 31,635,060 | |
Accrued interest receivable | Level 1 | | 96,882 | | | 96,882 | | | 106,230 | | | 106,230 | |
Federal Reserve Bank and Federal Home Loan Bank stock (3) | Level 2 | | 206,450 | | | 206,450 | | | 250,116 | | | 250,116 | |
Financial liabilities | | | | | | | | | |
Deposits without stated maturities | Level 1 | | 31,945,368 | | | 31,945,368 | | | 25,220,924 | | | 25,220,924 | |
Deposits with stated maturities | Level 2 | | 3,687,044 | | | 3,670,113 | | | 6,714,678 | | | 6,639,022 | |
Short-term borrowings | Level 1 | | 655,726 | | | 637,490 | | | 1,147,958 | | | 1,151,478 | |
Long-term borrowings | Level 2 | | 1,423,676 | | | 1,404,184 | | | 2,295,665 | | | 2,405,345 | |
Junior subordinated debentures issued to capital trusts | Level 2 | | 56,413 | | | 46,306 | | | 56,065 | | | 57,779 | |
Accrued interest payable (4) | Level 1 | | 4,909 | | | 4,909 | | | 18,839 | | | 18,839 | |
(1)Represents equity securities without a readily determinable fair value measured at costs less impairment, if any.
(2)The carrying amount is presented gross without the allowance for credit losses.
(3)Included in other assets.
(4)Included in accrued expenses and other liabilities.
INVESTMENT SECURITIES (Note 4)
Equity Securities
Equity securities carried at fair value totaled $36.5 million and $29.4 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. At December 31, 2021, Valley's equity securities consisted of one publicly traded mutual fund, CRA investments and to a lesser extent, equity investments related to the development of new financial technologies. Valley's CRA and other equity investments are a mixture of both public traded entities and privately held entities without readily determinable fair market values.
Trading Debt Securities
The fair value of trading debt securities, wholly consisting of municipal bonds, totaled $38.1 million at December 31, 2021. We had no trading debt securities at December 31, 2020. Net trading gains were included in net gains and losses on securities transactions within non-interest income. See the "Realized Gains and Losses" section below.
Available for Sale Debt Securities
The amortized cost, gross unrealized gains and losses and fair value of available for sale debt securities at December 31, 2021 and 2020 were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Amortized Cost | | Gross Unrealized Gains | | Gross Unrealized Losses | | Fair Value |
| (in thousands) |
December 31, 2021 | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
U.S. government agency securities | $ | 20,323 | | | $ | 608 | | | $ | (6) | | | $ | 20,925 | |
Obligations of states and political subdivisions: | | | | | | | |
Obligations of states and state agencies | 26,088 | | | 132 | | | (93) | | | 26,127 | |
Municipal bonds | 53,530 | | | 349 | | | (116) | | | 53,763 | |
Total obligations of states and political subdivisions | 79,618 | | | 481 | | | (209) | | | 79,890 | |
Residential mortgage-backed securities | 895,279 | | | 14,986 | | | (5,763) | | | 904,502 | |
Corporate and other debt securities | 120,871 | | | 3,177 | | | (556) | | | 123,492 | |
Total | $ | 1,116,091 | | | $ | 19,252 | | | $ | (6,534) | | | $ | 1,128,809 | |
December 31, 2020 | | | | | | | |
U.S. Treasury securities | $ | 50,031 | | | $ | 1,362 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 51,393 | |
U.S. government agency securities | 25,067 | | | 1,103 | | | (13) | | | 26,157 | |
Obligations of states and political subdivisions: | | | | | | | |
Obligations of states and state agencies | 40,861 | | | 970 | | | (32) | | | 41,799 | |
Municipal bonds | 37,489 | | | 731 | | | (69) | | | 38,151 | |
Total obligations of states and political subdivisions | 78,350 | | | 1,701 | | | (101) | | | 79,950 | |
Residential mortgage-backed securities | 1,050,369 | | | 40,426 | | | (773) | | | 1,090,022 | |
Corporate and other debt securities | 89,689 | | | 2,294 | | | (32) | | | 91,951 | |
Total | $ | 1,293,506 | | | $ | 46,886 | | | $ | (919) | | | $ | 1,339,473 | |
The age of unrealized losses and fair value of related available for sale debt securities at December 31, 2021 and 2020 were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Less than Twelve Months | | More than Twelve Months | | Total |
| Fair Value | | Unrealized Losses | | Fair Value | | Unrealized Losses | | Fair Value | | Unrealized Losses |
| (in thousands) |
December 31, 2021 | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
U.S. government agency securities | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | 1,326 | | | $ | (6) | | | $ | 1,326 | | | $ | (6) | |
Obligations of states and political subdivisions: | | | | | | | | | | | |
Obligations of states and state agencies | 10,549 | | | (93) | | | — | | | — | | | 10,549 | | | (93) | |
Municipal bonds | 19,100 | | | (116) | | | — | | | — | | | 19,100 | | | (116) | |
Total obligations of states and political subdivisions | 29,649 | | | (209) | | | — | | | — | | | 29,649 | | | (209) | |
Residential mortgage-backed securities | 371,256 | | | (4,770) | | | 25,960 | | | (993) | | | 397,216 | | | (5,763) | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Corporate and other debt securities | 59,039 | | | (556) | | | — | | | — | | | 59,039 | | | (556) | |
Total | $ | 459,944 | | | $ | (5,535) | | | $ | 27,286 | | | $ | (999) | | | $ | 487,230 | | | $ | (6,534) | |
December 31, 2020 | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
U.S. government agency securities | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | 1,479 | | | $ | (13) | | | $ | 1,479 | | | $ | (13) | |
Obligations of states and political subdivisions: | | | | | | | | | | | |
Obligations of states and state agencies | — | | | — | | | 1,010 | | | (32) | | | 1,010 | | | (32) | |
Municipal bonds | 6,777 | | | (69) | | | — | | | — | | | 6,777 | | | (69) | |
Total obligations of states and political subdivisions | 6,777 | | | (69) | | | 1,010 | | | (32) | | | 7,787 | | | (101) | |
Residential mortgage-backed securities | 41,418 | | | (500) | | | 27,911 | | | (273) | | | 69,329 | | | (773) | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Corporate and other debt securities | 12,517 | | | (32) | | | — | | | — | | | 12,517 | | | (32) | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Total | $ | 60,712 | | | $ | (601) | | | $ | 30,400 | | | $ | (318) | | | $ | 91,112 | | | $ | (919) | |
Within the available for sale debt securities portfolio, the total number of security positions in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2021 was 139 as compared to 58 at December 31, 2020.
As of December 31, 2021, the fair value of securities available for sale that were pledged to secure public deposits, repurchase agreements, lines of credit, and for other purposes required by law, was $568.7 million.
The contractual maturities of available for sale debt securities at December 31, 2021 are set forth in the following table. Maturities may differ from contractual maturities in residential mortgage-backed securities because the mortgages underlying the securities may be prepaid without any penalties. Therefore, residential mortgage-backed securities are not included in the maturity categories in the following summary.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| December 31, 2021 |
| Amortized Cost | | Fair Value |
| (in thousands) |
Due in one year | $ | 7,057 | | | $ | 7,121 | |
Due after one year through five years | 30,645 | | | 31,222 | |
Due after five years through ten years | 94,221 | | | 96,722 | |
Due after ten years | 88,889 | | | 89,242 | |
Residential mortgage-backed securities | 895,279 | | | 904,502 | |
| | | |
Total | $ | 1,116,091 | | | $ | 1,128,809 | |
Actual maturities of available for sale debt securities may differ from those presented above since certain obligations provide the issuer the right to call or prepay the obligation prior to scheduled maturity without penalty.
The weighted-average remaining expected life for residential mortgage-backed securities available for sale was 5.0 years at December 31, 2021.
Impairment Analysis of Available for Sale Debt Securities
Valley's available for sale debt securities portfolio includes corporate bonds and revenue bonds, among other securities. These types of securities may pose a higher risk of future impairment charges by Valley as a result of the unpredictable nature of the U.S. economy and its potential negative effect on the future performance of the security issuers, including due to the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Available for sale debt securities in unrealized loss positions are evaluated for impairment related to credit losses on a quarterly basis. See Note 1 for further information regarding Valley's accounting policy. Valley has evaluated available for sale debt securities that are in an unrealized loss position as of December 31, 2021 included in the table above and has determined that the declines in fair value are mainly attributable to market volatility, not credit quality or other factors. Based on a comparison of the present value of expected cash flows to the amortized cost, management recognized no impairment during the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, and, as a result, there was no allowance for credit losses for available for sale debt securities at December 31, 2021 and 2020.
Held to Maturity Debt Securities
The amortized cost, gross unrealized gains and losses and fair value of debt securities held to maturity at December 31, 2021 and 2020 were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Amortized Cost | | Gross Unrealized Gains | | Gross Unrealized Losses | | Fair Value |
| (in thousands) |
December 31, 2021 | | | | | | | |
U.S. Treasury securities | $ | 67,558 | | | $ | 4,103 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 71,661 | |
U.S. government agency securities | 6,265 | | | 113 | | | — | | | 6,378 | |
Obligations of states and political subdivisions: | | | | | | | |
Obligations of states and state agencies | 141,015 | | | 3,065 | | | (312) | | | 143,768 | |
Municipal bonds | 196,947 | | | 3,536 | | | (87) | | | 200,396 | |
Total obligations of states and political subdivisions | 337,962 | | | 6,601 | | | (399) | | | 344,164 | |
Residential mortgage-backed securities | 2,166,142 | | | 14,599 | | | (28,440) | | | 2,152,301 | |
Trust preferred securities | 37,020 | | | 5 | | | (5,109) | | | 31,916 | |
Corporate and other debt securities | 53,750 | | | 559 | | | (124) | | | 54,185 | |
Total | $ | 2,668,697 | | | $ | 25,980 | | | $ | (34,072) | | | $ | 2,660,605 | |
December 31, 2020 | | | | | | | |
U.S. Treasury securities | $ | 68,126 | | | $ | 7,358 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 75,484 | |
U.S. government agency securities | 6,222 | | | 291 | | | — | | | 6,513 | |
Obligations of states and political subdivisions: | | | | | | | |
Obligations of states and state agencies | 262,762 | | | 8,060 | | | (105) | | | 270,717 | |
Municipal bonds | 207,497 | | | 6,292 | | | — | | | 213,789 | |
Total obligations of states and political subdivisions | 470,259 | | | 14,352 | | | (105) | | | 484,506 | |
Residential mortgage-backed securities | 1,550,306 | | | 39,603 | | | (254) | | | 1,589,655 | |
Trust preferred securities | 37,348 | | | 50 | | | (7,365) | | | 30,033 | |
Corporate and other debt securities | 40,750 | | | 672 | | | (1) | | | 41,421 | |
Total | $ | 2,173,011 | | | $ | 62,326 | | | $ | (7,725) | | | $ | 2,227,612 | |
The age of unrealized losses and fair value of related debt securities held to maturity at December 31, 2021 and 2020 were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Less than Twelve Months | | More than Twelve Months | | Total |
| Fair Value | | Unrealized Losses | | Fair Value | | Unrealized Losses | | Fair Value | | Unrealized Losses |
| (in thousands) |
December 31, 2021 | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Obligations of states and political subdivisions: | | | | | | | | | | | |
Obligations of states and state agencies | $ | 17,000 | | | $ | (254) | | | $ | 5,517 | | | $ | (58) | | | $ | 22,517 | | | $ | (312) | |
Municipal bonds | 9,403 | | | (87) | | | — | | | — | | | 9,403 | | | (87) | |
Total obligations of states and political subdivisions | 26,403 | | | (341) | | | 5,517 | | | (58) | | | 31,920 | | | (399) | |
Residential mortgage-backed securities | 1,381,405 | | | (22,365) | | | 206,520 | | | (6,075) | | | 1,587,925 | | | (28,440) | |
Trust preferred securities | — | | | — | | | 30,912 | | | (5,109) | | | 30,912 | | | (5,109) | |
Corporate and other debt securities | 32,627 | | | (124) | | | — | | | — | | | 32,627 | | | (124) | |
Total | $ | 1,440,435 | | | $ | (22,830) | | | $ | 242,949 | | | $ | (11,242) | | | $ | 1,683,384 | | | $ | (34,072) | |
December 31, 2020 | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Obligations of states and state agencies | $ | 5,546 | | | $ | (105) | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | 5,546 | | | $ | (105) | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Residential mortgage-backed securities | 21,599 | | | (245) | | | 2,470 | | | (9) | | | 24,069 | | | (254) | |
Trust preferred securities | — | | | — | | | 28,630 | | | (7,365) | | | 28,630 | | | (7,365) | |
Corporate and other debt securities | 10,749 | | | (1) | | | — | | | — | | | 10,749 | | | (1) | |
Total | $ | 37,894 | | | $ | (351) | | | $ | 31,100 | | | $ | (7,374) | | | $ | 68,994 | | | $ | (7,725) | |
Within the securities held to maturity portfolio, the total number of security positions in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2021 was 108 as compared to 13 at December 31, 2020.
As of December 31, 2021, the fair value of debt securities held to maturity that were pledged to secure public deposits, repurchase agreements, lines of credit, and for other purposes required by law was $1.2 billion.
The contractual maturities of investments in debt securities held to maturity at December 31, 2021 are set forth in the table below. Maturities may differ from contractual maturities in residential mortgage-backed securities because the mortgages underlying the securities may be prepaid without any penalties. Therefore, residential mortgage-backed securities are not included in the maturity categories in the following summary.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| December 31, 2021 |
| Amortized Cost | | Fair Value |
| (in thousands) |
Due in one year | $ | 34,034 | | | $ | 34,197 | |
Due after one year through five years | 231,104 | | | 238,092 | |
Due after five years through ten years | 48,465 | | | 49,318 | |
Due after ten years | 188,952 | | | 186,697 | |
Residential mortgage-backed securities | 2,166,142 | | | 2,152,301 | |
Total | $ | 2,668,697 | | | $ | 2,660,605 | |
Actual maturities of held to maturity debt securities may differ from those presented above since certain obligations provide the issuer the right to call or prepay the obligation prior to scheduled maturity without penalty.
The weighted-average remaining expected life for residential mortgage-backed securities held to maturity was 6.1 years at December 31, 2021.
Credit Quality Indicators
Valley monitors the credit quality of the held to maturity debt securities utilizing the most current credit ratings from external rating agencies. The following table summarizes the amortized cost of held to maturity debt securities by external credit rating at December 31, 2021 and 2020.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| AAA/AA/A Rated | | BBB rated | | Non-investment grade rated | | Non-rated | | Total |
| (in thousands) |
December 31, 2021 | | | | | | | | | |
U.S. Treasury securities | $ | 67,558 | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | 67,558 | |
U.S. government agency securities | 6,265 | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 6,265 | |
Obligations of states and political subdivisions: | | | | | | | | | |
Obligations of states and state agencies | 118,368 | | | — | | | 5,576 | | | 17,071 | | | 141,015 | |
Municipal bonds | 148,854 | | | — | | | — | | | 48,093 | | | 196,947 | |
Total obligations of states and political subdivisions | 267,222 | | | — | | | 5,576 | | | 65,164 | | | 337,962 | |
Residential mortgage-backed securities | 2,166,142 | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 2,166,142 | |
Trust preferred securities | — | | | — | | | — | | | 37,020 | | | 37,020 | |
Corporate and other debt securities | 2,000 | | | 6,000 | | | — | | | 45,750 | | | 53,750 | |
Total | $ | 2,509,187 | | | $ | 6,000 | | | $ | 5,576 | | | $ | 147,934 | | | $ | 2,668,697 | |
December 31, 2020 | | | | | | | | | |
U.S. Treasury securities | $ | 68,126 | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | 68,126 | |
U.S. government agency securities | 6,222 | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 6,222 | |
Obligations of states and political subdivisions: | | | | | | | | | |
Obligations of states and state agencies | 228,286 | | | — | | | 5,650 | | | 28,826 | | | 262,762 | |
Municipal bonds | 166,408 | | | — | | | — | | | 41,089 | | | 207,497 | |
Total obligations of states and political subdivisions | 394,694 | | | — | | | 5,650 | | | 69,915 | | | 470,259 | |
Residential mortgage-backed securities | 1,550,306 | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 1,550,306 | |
Trust preferred securities | — | | | — | | | — | | | 37,348 | | | 37,348 | |
Corporate and other debt securities | — | | | 5,000 | | | — | | | 35,750 | | | 40,750 | |
Total | $ | 2,019,348 | | | $ | 5,000 | | | $ | 5,650 | | | $ | 143,013 | | | $ | 2,173,011 | |
Obligations of states and political subdivisions include municipal bonds and revenue bonds issued by various municipal corporations. At December 31, 2021, most of the obligations of states and political subdivisions were rated investment grade and a large portion of the "non-rated" category included TEMS securities secured by Ginnie Mae securities. Trust preferred securities consist of non-rated single-issuer securities, issued by bank holding companies. Corporate bonds consist of debt primarily issued by banks.
Allowance for Credit Losses for Held to Maturity Debt Securities
Valley has a zero loss expectation for certain securities within the held to maturity portfolio, and therefore it is not required to estimate an allowance for credit losses related to these securities under the CECL standard. After an evaluation of qualitative factors, Valley identified the following securities types which it believes qualify for this exclusion: U.S. Treasury securities, U.S. government agency securities, residential mortgage-backed securities issued by Ginnie Mae, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, and collateralized municipal bonds called TEMS. To measure the expected credit losses on held to maturity debt securities that have loss expectations, Valley estimates the expected credit losses using a discounted cash flow model developed by a third-party. See Note 1 for further details.
Held to maturity debt securities are carried net of an allowance for credit losses. The following table details the activity in the allowance for credit losses for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| December 31, |
| 2021 | | 2020 |
| (in thousands) |
Beginning balance | $ | 1,428 | | | $ | — | |
Adoption of ASU No. 2016-13 on January 1, 2020 | — | | | 793 |
(Credit) provision for credit losses | (263) | | | 635 | |
Ending balance | $ | 1,165 | | | $ | 1,428 | |
There were no net charge-offs of held to maturity debt securities in the respective periods presented in the table above.
Realized Gains and Losses
Gross gains and losses realized on sales, maturities and other securities transactions related to non-trading securities and net gains on trading debt securities included in earnings for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2021 | | 2020 | | 2019 |
| (in thousands) |
Sales transactions: | | | | | |
Gross gains | $ | 1,370 | | | $ | 665 | | | $ | — | |
Gross losses | (550) | | | (9) | | | — | |
Total | $ | 820 | | | $ | 656 | | | $ | — | |
Maturities and other securities transactions: | | | | | |
Gross gains | $ | 10 | | | $ | 34 | | | $ | 67 | |
Gross losses | (285) | | | (166) | | | (217) | |
Total | (275) | | | (132) | | | (150) | |
Net gains on trading debt securities | 1,213 | | | — | | | — | |
Net gains (losses) on securities transactions | $ | 1,758 | | | $ | 524 | | | $ | (150) | |
Net gains on sales transactions (as presented in the table above) include sales of available for sale debt securities related to $92.0 million of U.S. Treasury securities and residential mortgage-backed securities for the year ended December 31, 2021, and $30.0 million of certain municipal securities for the for the year ended December 31, 2020.
LOANS AND ALLOWANCE FOR CREDIT LOSSES FOR LOANS (Note 5)
The detail of the loan portfolio as of December 31, 2021 and 2020 was as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| |
| 2021 | | 2020 |
| (in thousands) |
Loans: | | | |
Commercial and industrial: | | | |
Commercial and industrial | $ | 5,411,601 | | | $ | 4,709,569 | |
Commercial and industrial PPP loans * | 435,950 | | | 2,152,139 | |
Total commercial and industrial loans | 5,847,551 | | | 6,861,708 | |
Commercial real estate: | | | |
Commercial real estate | 18,935,486 | | | 16,724,998 | |
Construction | 1,854,580 | | | 1,745,825 | |
Total commercial real estate loans | 20,790,066 | | | 18,470,823 | |
Residential mortgage | 4,545,064 | | | 4,183,743 | |
Consumer: | | | |
Home equity | 400,779 | | | 431,553 | |
Automobile | 1,570,036 | | | 1,355,955 | |
Other consumer | 1,000,161 | | | 913,330 | |
Total consumer loans | 2,970,976 | | | 2,700,838 | |
Total loans | $ | 34,153,657 | | | $ | 32,217,112 | |
* Represents SBA Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans, net of unearned fees totaling $12.1 million and $43.2 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Total loans include net unearned discounts and deferred loan fees of $78.5 million and $95.8 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Net unearned discounts and deferred loan fees include the non-credit discount on purchased credit deterioration (PCD) loans and net unearned fees related to PPP loans at December 31, 2021 and 2020.
Accrued interest on loans, which is excluded from the amortized cost of loans held for investment, totaled $83.7 million and $90.2 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, and is presented within total accrued interest receivable on the consolidated statements of financial condition.
Valley transferred and sold approximately $30.0 million of residential mortgage loans from the loan portfolio to loans held for sale in 2020. Excluding the loan transfers, there were no other sales of loans from the held for investment portfolio during the years December 31, 2021 and 2020.
Related Party Loans
In the ordinary course of business, Valley has granted loans to certain directors, executive officers and their affiliates (collectively referred to as “related parties”). These loans were made on substantially the same terms, including interest rates and collateral, as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with other unaffiliated persons and do not involve more than normal risk of collectability. All loans to related parties are performing as of December 31, 2021.
The following table summarizes the changes in the total amounts of loans and advances to the related parties during the year ended December 31, 2021:
| | | | | |
| 2021 |
| (in thousands) |
Outstanding at beginning of year | $ | 239,625 | |
New loans and advances | 7,613 | |
Repayments | (13,799) | |
Outstanding at end of year | $ | 233,439 | |
Loan Portfolio Risk Elements and Credit Risk Management
Credit risk management. For all loan types discussed below, Valley adheres to a credit policy designed to minimize credit risk while generating the maximum income given the level of risk appetite. Management reviews and approves these policies and procedures on a regular basis with subsequent approval by the Board of Directors annually. Credit authority relating to a significant dollar percentage of the overall portfolio is centralized and controlled by the Credit Risk Management Division and by the Credit Committee. A reporting system supplements the management review process by providing management with frequent reports concerning loan production, loan quality, internal loan classification, concentrations of credit, loan delinquencies, non-performing, and potential problem loans. Loan portfolio diversification is an important factor utilized by Valley to manage its risk across business sectors and through cyclical economic circumstances.
Commercial and industrial loans. A significant portion of Valley’s commercial and industrial loan portfolio is granted to long standing customers of proven ability, strong repayment performance, and high character. Underwriting standards are designed to assess the borrower’s ability to generate recurring cash flow sufficient to meet the debt service requirements of loans granted. While such recurring cash flow serves as the primary source of repayment, a significant number of the loans are collateralized by borrower assets intended to serve as a secondary source of repayment should the need arise. Anticipated cash flows of borrowers, however, may not be as expected and the collateral securing these loans may fluctuate in value, or in the case of loans secured by accounts receivable, the ability of the borrower to collect all amounts due from its customers. Short-term loans may be made on an unsecured basis based on a borrower’s financial strength and past performance. Whenever possible, Valley will obtain the personal guarantee of the borrower’s principals to mitigate the risk. Unsecured loans, when made, are generally granted to the Bank’s most credit worthy borrowers. Unsecured commercial and industrial loans totaled $1.0 billion and $2.7 billion at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively (including $436.0 million and $2.2 billion of SBA guaranteed PPP loans, respectively). The commercial portfolio also includes taxi medallion loans totaling approximately $86.0 million with related reserves of $58.5 million at December 31, 2021. All of these loans are on non-accrual status due to ongoing weakness exhibited in the taxi industry caused by strong competition from alternative ride-sharing services and the economic stress caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Commercial real estate loans. Commercial real estate loans are subject to underwriting standards and processes similar to commercial and industrial loans but generally they involve larger principal balances and longer repayment periods as compared to commercial and industrial loans. Commercial real estate loans are viewed primarily as cash flow loans and secondarily as loans secured by real property. Repayment of most loans is dependent upon the cash flow generated from the property securing the loan or the business that occupies the property. Commercial real estate loans may be more adversely affected by conditions in the real estate markets or in the general economy and accordingly, conservative loan to value ratios are required at origination, as well as stress tested to evaluate the impact of market changes relating to key underwriting elements. The properties securing the commercial real estate portfolio represent diverse types, with most properties located within Valley’s primary markets.
Construction loans. With respect to loans to developers and builders, Valley originates and manages construction loans structured on either a revolving or non-revolving basis, depending on the nature of the underlying development project. These loans are generally secured by the real estate to be developed and may also be secured by additional real estate to mitigate the risk. Non-revolving construction loans often involve the disbursement of substantially all committed funds with repayment substantially dependent on the successful completion and sale, or lease, of the project. Sources of repayment for these types of loans may be from pre-committed permanent loans from other lenders, sales of developed property, or an interim loan commitment from Valley until permanent financing is obtained elsewhere. Revolving construction loans (generally relating to single-family residential construction) are controlled with loan advances dependent upon the presale of housing units financed. These loans are closely monitored by on-site inspections and are considered to have higher risks than other real estate loans due to their ultimate repayment being sensitive to interest rate changes, governmental regulation of real property, general economic conditions and the availability of long-term financing.
Residential mortgages. Valley originates residential, first mortgage loans based on underwriting standards that generally comply with Fannie Mae and/or Freddie Mac requirements. Appraisals and valuations of real estate collateral are contracted directly with independent appraisers or from valuation services and not through appraisal management companies. The Bank’s appraisal management policy and procedure is in accordance with regulatory requirements and guidance issued by the Bank’s primary regulator. Credit scoring, using FICO® and other proprietary credit scoring models are employed in the ultimate, judgmental credit decision by Valley’s underwriting staff. Valley does not use third party contract underwriting services. Residential mortgage loans include fixed and variable interest rate loans secured by one to four family homes mostly located in northern and central New Jersey, the New York City metropolitan area, and Florida. Valley’s ability to be repaid on such loans is closely linked to the economic and real estate market conditions in these regions. In deciding whether to originate each residential mortgage, Valley considers the qualifications of the borrower as well as the value of the underlying property.
Home equity loans. Home equity lending consists of both fixed and variable interest rate products. Valley mainly provides home equity loans to its residential mortgage customers within the footprint of its primary lending territory. Valley generally will not exceed a combined (i.e., first and second mortgage) loan-to-value ratio of 80 percent when originating a home equity loan.
Automobile loans. Valley uses both judgmental and scoring systems in the credit decision process for automobile loans. Automobile originations (including light truck and sport utility vehicles) are largely produced via indirect channels, originated through approved automobile dealers. Automotive collateral is generally a depreciating asset and there are times in the life of an automobile loan where the amount owed on a vehicle may exceed its collateral value. Additionally, automobile charge-offs will vary based on the strength or weakness of the used vehicle market, original advance rate, when in the life cycle of a loan a default occurs and the condition of the collateral being liquidated. Where permitted by law, and subject to the limitations of the bankruptcy code, deficiency judgments are sought and acted upon to ultimately collect all money owed, even when a default resulted in a loss at collateral liquidation. Valley uses a third party to actively track collision and comprehensive risk insurance required of the borrower on the automobile and this third party provides coverage to Valley in the event of an uninsured collateral loss.
Other consumer loans. Valley’s other consumer loan portfolio includes direct consumer term loans, both secured and unsecured. The other consumer loan portfolio includes exposures in personal lines of credit (mainly those secured by cash surrender value of life insurance), credit card loans and personal loans. Unsecured consumer loans totaled approximately $54.0 million and $49.4 million, including $12.8 million and $8.8 million of credit card loans, at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Management believes the aggregate risk exposure to unsecured loans and lines of credit was not significant at December 31, 2021.
Credit Quality
The following table presents past due, current and non-accrual loans without an allowance for loan losses by loan portfolio class at December 31, 2021 and 2020:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Past Due and Non-Accrual Loans | | | | | | |
| 30-59 Days Past Due Loans | | 60-89 Days Past Due Loans | | 90 Days or More Past Due Loans | | Non-Accrual Loans | | Total Past Due Loans | | Current Loans | | Total Loans | | Non-Accrual Loans Without Allowance for Loan Losses |
| (in thousands) | |
December 31, 2021 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Commercial and industrial | $ | 6,717 | | | $ | 7,870 | | | $ | 1,273 | | | $ | 99,918 | | | $ | 115,778 | | | $ | 5,731,773 | | | $ | 5,847,551 | | | $ | 9,066 | |
Commercial real estate: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Commercial real estate | 14,421 | | | — | | | 32 | | | 83,592 | | | 98,045 | | | 18,837,441 | | | 18,935,486 | | | 70,719 | |
Construction | 1,941 | | | — | | | — | | | 17,641 | | | 19,582 | | | 1,834,998 | | | 1,854,580 | | | — | |
Total commercial real estate loans | 16,362 | | | — | | | 32 | | | 101,233 | | | 117,627 | | | 20,672,439 | | | 20,790,066 | | | 70,719 | |
Residential mortgage | 10,999 | | | 3,314 | | | 677 | | | 35,207 | | | 50,197 | | | 4,494,867 | | | 4,545,064 | | | 20,401 | |
Consumer loans: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Home equity | 242 | | | 98 | | | — | | | 3,517 | | | 3,857 | | | 396,922 | | | 400,779 | | | 4 | |
Automobile | 6,391 | | | 656 | | | 271 | | | 240 | | | 7,558 | | | 1,562,478 | | | 1,570,036 | | | — | |
Other consumer | 178 | | | 266 | | | 518 | | | 101 | | | 1,063 | | | 999,098 | | | 1,000,161 | | | — | |
Total consumer loans | 6,811 | | | 1,020 | | | 789 | | | 3,858 | | | 12,478 | | | 2,958,498 | | | 2,970,976 | | | 4 | |
Total | $ | 40,889 | | | $ | 12,204 | | | $ | 2,771 | | | $ | 240,216 | | | $ | 296,080 | | | $ | 33,857,577 | | | $ | 34,153,657 | | | $ | 100,190 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Past Due and Non-Accrual Loans | | | | | | |
| 30-59 Days Past Due Loans | | 60-89 Days Past Due Loans | | 90 Days or More Past Due Loans | | Non-Accrual Loans | | Total Past Due Loans | | Current Loans | | Total Loans | | Non-Accrual Loans Without Allowance for Loan Losses |
| (in thousands) | | |
December 31, 2020 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Commercial and industrial | $ | 6,393 | | | $ | 2,252 | | | $ | 9,107 | | | $ | 106,693 | | | $ | 124,445 | | | $ | 6,737,263 | | | $ | 6,861,708 | | | $ | 4,075 | |
Commercial real estate: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Commercial real estate | 35,030 | | | 1,326 | | | 993 | | | 46,879 | | | 84,228 | | | 16,640,770 | | | 16,724,998 | | | 32,416 | |
Construction | 315 | | | — | | | — | | | 84 | | | 399 | | | 1,745,426 | | | 1,745,825 | | | — | |
Total commercial real estate loans | 35,345 | | | 1,326 | | | 993 | | | 46,963 | | | 84,627 | | | 18,386,196 | | | 18,470,823 | | | 32,416 | |
Residential mortgage | 17,717 | | | 10,351 | | | 3,170 | | | 25,817 | | | 57,055 | | | 4,126,688 | | | 4,183,743 | | | 11,610 | |
Consumer loans: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Home equity | 953 | | | 492 | | | — | | | 4,936 | | | 6,381 | | | 425,172 | | | 431,553 | | | 50 | |
Automobile | 8,056 | | | 1,107 | | | 245 | | | 338 | | | 9,746 | | | 1,346,209 | | | 1,355,955 | | | — | |
Other consumer | 1,248 | | | 224 | | | 26 | | | 535 | | | 2,033 | | | 911,297 | | | 913,330 | | | — | |
Total consumer loans | 10,257 | | | 1,823 | | | 271 | | | 5,809 | | | 18,160 | | | 2,682,678 | | | 2,700,838 | | | 50 | |
Total | $ | 69,712 | | | $ | 15,752 | | | $ | 13,541 | | | $ | 185,282 | | | $ | 284,287 | | | $ | 31,932,825 | | | $ | 32,217,112 | | | $ | 48,151 | |
If interest on non-accrual loans had been accrued in accordance with the original contractual terms, such interest income would have amounted to approximately $7.1 million, $6.2 million, and $2.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively; none of these amounts were included in interest income during these periods.
Credit quality indicators. Valley utilizes an internal loan classification system as a means of reporting problem loans within commercial and industrial, commercial real estate, and construction loan portfolio classes. Under Valley’s internal risk rating system, loan relationships could be classified as “Pass,” “Special Mention,” “Substandard,” “Doubtful,” and “Loss.” Substandard loans include loans that exhibit well-defined weakness and are characterized by the distinct possibility that Valley will sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected. Loans classified as Doubtful have all the weaknesses inherent in those classified as Substandard with the added characteristic that the weaknesses present make collection or liquidation in full, based on currently existing facts, conditions and values, highly questionable and improbable. Loans classified as Loss are those considered uncollectible with insignificant value and are charged-off immediately to the allowance for loan losses, and, therefore, not presented in the table below. Loans that do not currently pose a sufficient risk to warrant classification in one of the aforementioned categories but pose weaknesses that deserve management’s close attention are deemed Special Mention. Pass rated loans do not currently pose any identified risk and can range from the highest to average quality, depending on the degree of potential risk. Risk ratings are updated any time the situation warrants.
The following table presents the internal loan classification risk by loan portfolio class by origination year based on the most recent analysis performed at December 31, 2021 and 2020:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Term Loans | | | | | | |
| | Amortized Cost Basis by Origination Year | | | | | | |
December 31, 2021 | | 2021 | | 2020 | | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 | | Prior to 2017 | | Revolving Loans Amortized Cost Basis | | Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans | | Total |
| | (in thousands) |
Commercial and industrial | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Risk Rating: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Pass | | $ | 1,563,050 | | | $ | 743,165 | | | $ | 461,022 | | | $ | 362,748 | | | $ | 143,753 | | | $ | 337,713 | | | $ | 1,968,513 | | | $ | 247 | | | $ | 5,580,211 | |
Special Mention | | 4,182 | | | 1,195 | | | 3,217 | | | 14,143 | | | 1,726 | | | 9,869 | | | 102,145 | | | 40 | | | 136,517 | |
Substandard | | 8,248 | | | 4,823 | | | 3,139 | | | 7,077 | | | 910 | | | 408 | | | 19,642 | | | 109 | | | 44,356 | |
Doubtful | | — | | | — | | | 2,733 | | | — | | | 16,355 | | | 67,379 | | | — | | | — | | | 86,467 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total commercial and industrial | | $ | 1,575,480 | | | $ | 749,183 | | | $ | 470,111 | | | $ | 383,968 | | | $ | 162,744 | | | $ | 415,369 | | | $ | 2,090,300 | | | $ | 396 | | | $ | 5,847,551 | |
Commercial real estate | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Risk Rating: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Pass | | $ | 4,517,917 | | | $ | 2,983,140 | | | $ | 2,702,580 | | | $ | 1,734,922 | | | $ | 1,474,770 | | | $ | 4,557,011 | | | $ | 195,851 | | | $ | 13,380 | | | $ | 18,179,571 | |
Special Mention | | 7,700 | | | 50,019 | | | 46,911 | | | 44,187 | | | 65,623 | | | 143,540 | | | 50,168 | | | — | | | 408,148 | |
Substandard | | 735 | | | 34,655 | | | 29,029 | | | 41,231 | | | 70,941 | | | 169,041 | | | 1,949 | | | — | | | 347,581 | |
Doubtful | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 186 | | | — | | | — | | | 186 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total commercial real estate | | $ | 4,526,352 | | | $ | 3,067,814 | | | $ | 2,778,520 | | | $ | 1,820,340 | | | $ | 1,611,334 | | | $ | 4,869,778 | | | $ | 247,968 | | | $ | 13,380 | | | $ | 18,935,486 | |
Construction | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Risk Rating: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Pass | | $ | 274,097 | | | $ | 98,609 | | | $ | 48,555 | | | $ | 32,781 | | | $ | 6,061 | | | $ | 28,419 | | | $ | 1,313,555 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 1,802,077 | |
Special Mention | | 4,131 | | | — | | | 1,009 | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 18,449 | | | — | | | 23,589 | |
Substandard | | 199 | | | 19 | | | 6 | | | 246 | | | — | | | 17,842 | | | 10,602 | | | — | | | 28,914 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total construction | | $ | 278,427 | | | $ | 98,628 | | | $ | 49,570 | | | $ | 33,027 | | | $ | 6,061 | | | $ | 46,261 | | | $ | 1,342,606 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 1,854,580 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Term Loans | | | | | | |
| | Amortized Cost Basis by Origination Year | | | | | | |
December 31, 2020 | | 2020 | | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 | | 2016 | | Prior to 2016 | | Revolving Loans Amortized Cost Basis | | Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans | | Total |
| | (in thousands) |
Commercial and industrial | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Risk Rating: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Pass | | $ | 3,058,596 | | | $ | 605,112 | | | $ | 556,284 | | | $ | 212,215 | | | $ | 162,483 | | | $ | 337,484 | | | $ | 1,677,559 | | | $ | 350 | | | $ | 6,610,083 | |
Special Mention | | 819 | | | 10,236 | | | 2,135 | | | 9,502 | | | 10,228 | | | 14,165 | | | 49,883 | | | 51 | | | 97,019 | |
Substandard | | 5,215 | | | 3,876 | | | 12,481 | | | 1,798 | | | 4,215 | | | 12,965 | | | 18,913 | | | 462 | | | 59,925 | |
Doubtful | | — | | | 5,203 | | | 1 | | | 17,010 | | | 2,596 | | | 69,871 | | | — | | | — | | | 94,681 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total commercial and industrial | | $ | 3,064,630 | | | $ | 624,427 | | | $ | 570,901 | | | $ | 240,525 | | | $ | 179,522 | | | $ | 434,485 | | | $ | 1,746,355 | | | $ | 863 | | | $ | 6,861,708 | |
Commercial real estate | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Risk Rating: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Pass | | $ | 3,096,549 | | | $ | 3,052,076 | | | $ | 2,230,047 | | | $ | 1,767,528 | | | $ | 1,798,137 | | | $ | 3,916,990 | | | $ | 199,145 | | | $ | 15,532 | | | $ | 16,076,004 | |
Special Mention | | 50,193 | | | 68,203 | | | 44,336 | | | 48,813 | | | 66,845 | | | 109,295 | | | 1,705 | | | — | | | 389,390 | |
Substandard | | 18,936 | | | 17,049 | | | 30,997 | | | 59,618 | | | 11,541 | | | 118,725 | | | 2,531 | | | — | | | 259,397 | |
Doubtful | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 207 | | | — | | | — | | | 207 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total commercial real estate | | $ | 3,165,678 | | | $ | 3,137,328 | | | $ | 2,305,380 | | | $ | 1,875,959 | | | $ | 1,876,523 | | | $ | 4,145,217 | | | $ | 203,381 | | | $ | 15,532 | | | $ | 16,724,998 | |
Construction | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Risk Rating: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Pass | | $ | 145,246 | | | $ | 120,800 | | | $ | 111,174 | | | $ | 15,497 | | | $ | 47,971 | | | $ | 20,029 | | | $ | 1,199,034 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 1,659,751 | |
Special Mention | | — | | | 1,043 | | | — | | | — | | | 9,996 | | | 17,414 | | | 47,311 | | | — | | | 75,764 | |
Substandard | | — | | | 26 | | | 246 | | | 2,628 | | | 17 | | | 380 | | | 7,013 | | | — | | | 10,310 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total construction | | $ | 145,246 | | | $ | 121,869 | | | $ | 111,420 | | | $ | 18,125 | | | $ | 57,984 | | | $ | 37,823 | | | $ | 1,253,358 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 1,745,825 | |
For residential mortgages, automobile, home equity and other consumer loan portfolio classes, Valley also evaluates credit quality based on the aging status of the loan, which was previously presented, and by payment activity. The following table presents the amortized cost in those loan classes based on payment activity by origination year as of December 31, 2021 and 2020:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Term Loans | | | | | | |
| | Amortized Cost Basis by Origination Year | | | | | | |
December 31, 2021 | | 2021 | | 2020 | | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 | | Prior to 2017 | | Revolving Loans Amortized Cost Basis | | Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans | | Total |
| | (in thousands) |
Residential mortgage | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Performing | | $ | 1,448,602 | | | $ | 635,531 | | | $ | 572,911 | | | $ | 425,152 | | | $ | 368,164 | | | $ | 1,014,190 | | | $ | 70,342 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 4,534,892 | |
90 days or more past due | | — | | | 357 | | | 2,627 | | | 2,056 | | | 2,794 | | | 2,338 | | | — | | | — | | | 10,172 | |
Total residential mortgage | | $ | 1,448,602 | | | $ | 635,888 | | | $ | 575,538 | | | $ | 427,208 | | | $ | 370,958 | | | $ | 1,016,528 | | | $ | 70,342 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 4,545,064 | |
Consumer loans | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Home equity | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Performing | | $ | 13,847 | | | $ | 5,723 | | | $ | 6,994 | | | $ | 7,384 | | | $ | 5,359 | | | $ | 13,597 | | | $ | 303,888 | | | $ | 42,822 | | | $ | 399,614 | |
90 days or more past due | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 35 | | | 536 | | | 594 | | | 1,165 | |
Total home equity | | 13,847 | | | 5,723 | | | 6,994 | | | 7,384 | | | 5,359 | | | 13,632 | | | 304,424 | | | 43,416 | | | 400,779 | |
Automobile | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Performing | | 735,446 | | | 309,856 | | | 278,828 | | | 157,450 | | | 72,753 | | | 15,171 | | | — | | | — | | | 1,569,504 | |
90 days or more past due | | 129 | | | — | | | 78 | | | 163 | | | 81 | | | 81 | | | — | | | — | | | 532 | |
Total automobile | | 735,575 | | | 309,856 | | | 278,906 | | | 157,613 | | | 72,834 | | | 15,252 | | | — | | | — | | | 1,570,036 | |
Other consumer | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Performing | | 2,949 | | | 6,717 | | | 6,468 | | | 7,017 | | | 1,009 | | | 14,483 | | | 961,027 | | | — | | | 999,670 | |
90 days or more past due | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 491 | | | — | | | 491 | |
Total other consumer | | 2,949 | | | 6,717 | | | 6,468 | | | 7,017 | | | 1,009 | | | 14,483 | | | 961,518 | | | — | | | 1,000,161 | |
Total consumer | | $ | 752,371 | | | $ | 322,296 | | | $ | 292,368 | | | $ | 172,014 | | | $ | 79,202 | | | $ | 43,367 | | | $ | 1,265,942 | | | $ | 43,416 | | | $ | 2,970,976 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Term Loans | | | | | | |
| | Amortized Cost Basis by Origination Year | | | | | | |
December 31, 2020 | | 2020 | | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 | | 2016 | | Prior to 2016 | | Revolving Loans Amortized Cost Basis | | Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans | | Total |
| | (in thousands) |
Residential mortgage | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Performing | | $ | 730,764 | | | $ | 778,161 | | | $ | 684,761 | | | $ | 582,650 | | | $ | 380,723 | | | $ | 943,616 | | | $ | 64,798 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 4,165,473 | |
90 days or more past due | | — | | | 3,085 | | | 4,212 | | | 3,464 | | | 4,144 | | | 3,365 | | | — | | | — | | | 18,270 | |
Total residential mortgage | | $ | 730,764 | | | $ | 781,246 | | | $ | 688,973 | | | $ | 586,114 | | | $ | 384,867 | | | $ | 946,981 | | | $ | 64,798 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 4,183,743 | |
Consumer loans | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Home equity | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Performing | | $ | 8,580 | | | $ | 10,634 | | | $ | 11,756 | | | $ | 8,886 | | | $ | 5,340 | | | $ | 15,393 | | | $ | 318,869 | | | $ | 50,879 | | | $ | 430,337 | |
90 days or more past due | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 25 | | | 83 | | | 378 | | | 730 | | | 1,216 | |
Total home equity | | 8,580 | | | 10,634 | | | 11,756 | | | 8,886 | | | 5,365 | | | 15,476 | | | 319,247 | | | 51,609 | | | 431,553 | |
Automobile | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Performing | | 426,121 | | | 438,181 | | | 272,075 | | | 151,523 | | | 50,853 | | | 16,550 | | | — | | | — | | | 1,355,303 | |
90 days or more past due | | 19 | | | 108 | | | 173 | | | 223 | | | 35 | | | 94 | | | — | | | — | | | 652 | |
Total automobile | | 426,140 | | | 438,289 | | | 272,248 | | | 151,746 | | | 50,888 | | | 16,644 | | | — | | | — | | | 1,355,955 | |
Other consumer | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Performing | | 12,271 | | | 5,558 | | | 6,815 | | | 1,112 | | | 1,077 | | | 5,314 | | | 880,748 | | | — | | | 912,895 | |
90 days or more past due | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 22 | | | 5 | | | 408 | | | 435 | |
Total other consumer | | 12,271 | | | 5,558 | | | 6,815 | | | 1,112 | | | 1,077 | | | 5,336 | | | 880,753 | | | 408 | | | 913,330 | |
Total consumer | | $ | 446,991 | | | $ | 454,481 | | | $ | 290,819 | | | $ | 161,744 | | | $ | 57,330 | | | $ | 37,456 | | | $ | 1,200,000 | | | $ | 52,017 | | | $ | 2,700,838 | |
Troubled debt restructured loans. From time to time, Valley may extend, restructure, or otherwise modify the terms of existing loans, on a case-by-case basis, to remain competitive and retain certain customers, as well as assist other customers who may be experiencing financial difficulties. If the borrower is experiencing financial difficulties and a concession has been made at the time of such modification, the loan is classified as a troubled debt restructured loan (TDR).
Generally, the concessions made for TDRs involve lowering the monthly payments on loans through either a reduction in interest rate below a market rate, an extension of the term of the loan without a corresponding adjustment to the risk premium reflected in the interest rate, or a combination of these two methods. The concessions may also involve payment deferrals but rarely result in the forgiveness of principal or accrued interest. In addition, Valley frequently obtains additional collateral or guarantor support when modifying such loans. If the borrower has demonstrated performance under the previous terms of the loan and Valley’s underwriting process shows the borrower has the capacity to continue to perform under the restructured terms, the loan will continue to accrue interest. Non-accruing restructured loans may be returned to accrual status when there has been a sustained period of repayment performance (generally six consecutive months of payments) and both principal and interest are deemed collectible.
Performing TDRs (not reported as non-accrual loans) totaled $71.3 million and $57.4 million as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Non-performing TDRs totaled $117.2 million and $92.8 million as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
The following table presents pre- and post-modification amortized cost of loans by loan class modified as TDRs during the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020. Post-modification amounts are presented as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Troubled Debt Restructurings | | Number of Contracts | | Pre-Modification Outstanding Recorded Investment | | Post-Modification Outstanding Recorded Investment |
| | | | ($ in thousands) |
December 31, 2021 | | | | | | |
Commercial and industrial | | 70 | | | $ | 52,790 | | | $ | 48,764 | |
Commercial real estate: | | | | | | |
Commercial real estate | | 12 | | | 29,480 | | | 29,313 | |
Construction | | 3 | | | 22,049 | | | 18,418 | |
Total commercial real estate | | 15 | | | 51,529 | | | 47,731 | |
Residential mortgage | | 14 | | | 9,663 | | | 9,578 | |
Consumer | | 1 | | | 170 | | | 161 | |
Total | | 100 | | | $ | 114,152 | | | $ | 106,234 | |
December 31, 2020 | | | | | | |
Commercial and industrial | | 42 | | | $ | 46,090 | | | $ | 42,679 | |
Commercial real estate: | | | | | | |
Commercial real estate | | 6 | | | 24,683 | | | 21,654 | |
Construction | | — | | | — | | | — | |
Total commercial real estate | | 6 | | | 24,683 | | | 21,654 | |
Residential mortgage | | 12 | | | 2,377 | | | 2,323 | |
Consumer | | 1 | | | 72 | | | 70 | |
Total | | 61 | | | $ | 73,222 | | | $ | 66,726 | |
The total TDRs presented in the table above had allocated a specific allowance for loan losses that totaled $29.1 million and $21.1 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. There were $6.0 million and $7.7 million of charge-offs related to TDRs for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. At December 31, 2021, the commercial and industrial loan category in the above table mostly consisted of non-accrual TDR taxi medallion loans classified as substandard and doubtful. Valley did not extend any commitments to lend additional funds to borrowers whose loans have been modified as TDRs during the year ended December 31, 2021.
Loans modified as TDRs within the previous 12 months and for which there was a payment default (90 or more days past due) in the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020 were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Years Ended December 31, |
| | 2021 | | 2020 |
Troubled Debt Restructurings Subsequently Defaulted | | Number of Contracts | | Recorded Investment | | Number of Contracts | | Recorded Investment |
| | ($ in thousands) |
Commercial and industrial | | — | | | $ | — | | | 27 | | | $ | 23,247 | |
Commercial real estate: | | | | | | | | |
Commercial real estate | | 1 | | | 10,261 | | | — | | | — | |
Construction | | 2 | | | 17,599 | | | — | | | — | |
Total commercial real estate | | 3 | | | 27,860 | | | — | | | — | |
Residential mortgage | | — | | | — | | | 1 | | | 247 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Total | | 3 | | | $ | 27,860 | | | 28 | | | $ | 23,494 | |
Forbearance. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic impact to certain customers, Valley implemented short-term loan modifications such as payment deferrals, fee waivers, extensions of repayment terms, or delays in payment, when requested by customers, all of which were insignificant. As of December 31, 2021, Valley had approximately $28 million of outstanding loans remaining in their payment deferral period under short-term modifications as compared to
approximately $361 million of loans in deferral at December 31, 2020. Under the applicable guidance, none of these loans were classified as TDRs at December 31, 2021 and 2020.
Collateral dependent loans. Loans are collateral-dependent when the debtor is experiencing financial difficulty and repayment is expected to be provided substantially through the sale or operation of the collateral. When Valley determines that foreclosure is probable, the collateral dependent loan balances are written down to the estimated current fair value (less estimated selling costs) resulting in an immediate charge-off to the allowance, excluding any consideration for personal guarantees that may be pursued in the Bank’s collection process.
The following table presents collateral dependent loans by class as of December 31, 2021 and 2020:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2021 | | 2020 |
| (in thousands) |
Collateral dependent loans: | | | |
Commercial and industrial * | $ | 95,335 | | | $ | 106,239 | |
| | | |
Commercial real estate | 110,174 | | | 41,562 | |
| | | |
| | | |
Residential mortgage | 35,745 | | | 28,176 | |
Home equity | 4 | | | 50 | |
Total | $ | 241,258 | | | $ | 176,027 | |
* Commercial and industrial loans are primarily collateralized by taxi medallions.
Allowance for Credit Losses for Loans
The following table summarizes the allowance for credit losses for loans at December 31, 2021 and 2020:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2021 | | 2020 |
| (in thousands) |
Components of allowance for credit losses for loans: | | | |
Allowance for loan losses | $ | 359,202 | | | $ | 340,243 | |
Allowance for unfunded credit commitments | 16,500 | | | 11,111 | |
Total allowance for credit losses for loans | $ | 375,702 | | | $ | 351,354 | |
The following table summarizes the provision for credit losses for loans for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2021 | | 2020 | | 2019 |
| (in thousands) |
Components of provision for credit losses for loans: | | | | | |
Provision for loan losses | $ | 27,507 | | | $ | 123,922 | | | $ | 25,809 | |
Provision for unfunded credit commitments | 5,389 | | | 1,165 | | | (1,591) | |
Total provision for credit losses for loans | $ | 32,896 | | | $ | 125,087 | | | $ | 24,218 | |
The following table details the activity in the allowance for loan losses by portfolio segment for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Commercial and Industrial | | Commercial Real Estate | | Residential Mortgage | | Consumer | | Total |
| (in thousands) |
December 31, 2021 | | | | | | | | | |
Allowance for loan losses: | | | | | | | | | |
Beginning balance | $ | 131,070 | | | $ | 164,113 | | | $ | 28,873 | | | $ | 16,187 | | | $ | 340,243 | |
Allowance for purchased credit deteriorated (PCD) loans | 3,528 | | | 2,953 | | | 57 | | | 4 | | | 6,542 | |
Loans charged-off | (21,507) | | | (382) | | | (140) | | | (4,303) | | | (26,332) | |
Charged-off loans recovered | 3,934 | | | 2,557 | | | 676 | | | 4,075 | | | 11,242 | |
Net (charge-offs) recoveries | (17,573) | | | 2,175 | | | 536 | | | (228) | | | (15,090) | |
(Credit) provision for loan losses | (13,935) | | | 48,249 | | | (4,346) | | | (2,461) | | | 27,507 | |
Ending balance | $ | 103,090 | | | $ | 217,490 | | | $ | 25,120 | | | $ | 13,502 | | | $ | 359,202 | |
December 31, 2020 | | | | | | | | | |
Allowance for loan losses: | | | | | | | | | |
Beginning balance | $ | 104,059 | | | $ | 45,673 | | | $ | 5,060 | | | $ | 6,967 | | | $ | 161,759 | |
Impact of ASU 2016-13 adoption* | 15,169 | | | 49,797 | | | 20,575 | | | 6,990 | | | 92,531 | |
Beginning balance, adjusted | 119,228 | | | 95,470 | | | 25,635 | | | 13,957 | | | 254,290 | |
Loans charged-off | (34,630) | | | (767) | | | (598) | | | (9,294) | | | (45,289) | |
Charged-off loans recovered | 1,956 | | | 1,506 | | | 670 | | | 3,188 | | | 7,320 | |
Net (charge-offs) recoveries | (32,674) | | | 739 | | | 72 | | | (6,106) | | | (37,969) | |
Provision for loan losses | 44,516 | | | 67,904 | | | 3,166 | | | 8,336 | | | 123,922 | |
Ending balance | $ | 131,070 | | | $ | 164,113 | | | $ | 28,873 | | | $ | 16,187 | | | $ | 340,243 | |
* Includes a $61.6 million increase representing the estimated expected credit losses for PCD loans as a result of the ASU 2016-13 adoption on January 1, 2020.
The following table represents the allocation of the allowance for loan losses and the related loans by loan portfolio segment disaggregated based on the allowance measurement methodology for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Commercial and Industrial | | Commercial Real Estate | | Residential Mortgage | | Consumer | | Total |
| (in thousands) |
December 31, 2021 | | | | | | | | | |
Allowance for loan losses: | | | | | | | | | |
Individually evaluated for credit losses | $ | 64,359 | | | $ | 6,277 | | | $ | 470 | | | $ | 390 | | | $ | 71,496 | |
Collectively evaluated for credit losses | 38,731 | | | 211,213 | | | 24,650 | | | 13,112 | | | 287,706 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
Total | $ | 103,090 | | | $ | 217,490 | | | $ | 25,120 | | | $ | 13,502 | | | $ | 359,202 | |
Loans: | | | | | | | | | |
Individually evaluated for credit losses | $ | 119,760 | | | $ | 134,135 | | | $ | 42,469 | | | $ | 2,431 | | | $ | 298,795 | |
Collectively evaluated for credit losses | 5,727,791 | | | 20,655,931 | | | 4,502,595 | | | 2,968,545 | | | 33,854,862 | |
Total | $ | 5,847,551 | | | $ | 20,790,066 | | | $ | 4,545,064 | | | $ | 2,970,976 | | | $ | 34,153,657 | |
December 31, 2020 | | | | | | | | | |
Allowance for loan losses: | | | | | | | | | |
Individually evaluated for credit losses | $ | 73,063 | | | $ | 1,338 | | | $ | 1,206 | | | $ | 264 | | | $ | 75,871 | |
Collectively evaluated for credit losses | 58,007 | | | 162,775 | | | 27,667 | | | 15,923 | | | 264,372 | |
Total | $ | 131,070 | | | $ | 164,113 | | | $ | 28,873 | | | $ | 16,187 | | | $ | 340,243 | |
Loans: | | | | | | | | | |
Individually evaluated for credit losses | $ | 131,057 | | | $ | 61,754 | | | $ | 35,151 | | | $ | 1,631 | | | $ | 229,593 | |
Collectively evaluated for credit losses | 6,730,651 | | | 18,409,069 | | | 4,148,592 | | | 2,699,207 | | | 31,987,519 | |
Total | $ | 6,861,708 | | | $ | 18,470,823 | | | $ | 4,183,743 | | | $ | 2,700,838 | | | $ | 32,217,112 | |
LEASES (Note 6)
The following table presents the components of the right of use (ROU) assets and lease liabilities in the consolidated statements of financial condition by lease type at December 31, 2021 and 2020.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| December 31, |
| 2021 | | 2020 |
| (in thousands) |
ROU assets: | | | |
Operating leases | $ | 258,714 | | | $ | 251,293 | |
Finance leases | 403 | | | 760 | |
Total | $ | 259,117 | | | $ | 252,053 | |
Lease liabilities: | | | |
Operating leases | $ | 282,339 | | | $ | 275,248 | |
Finance leases | 767 | | | 1,427 | |
Total | $ | 283,106 | | | $ | 276,675 | |
The following table presents the components by lease type, of total lease cost recognized in the consolidated statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020, and 2019:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2021 | | 2020 | | 2019 |
| (in thousands) |
Finance lease cost: | | | | | |
Amortization of ROU assets | $ | 378 | | | $ | 363 | | | $ | 291 | |
Interest on lease liabilities | 91 | | | 146 | | | 191 | |
Operating lease cost | 34,842 | | | 36,094 | | | 34,175 | |
Short-term lease cost | 700 | | | 783 | | | 410 | |
Variable lease cost | 3,417 | | | 4,296 | | | 3,573 | |
Sublease income | (3,044) | | | (2,520) | | | (3,422) | |
Total lease cost (included in net occupancy and equipment expense) | $ | 36,384 | | | $ | 39,162 | | | $ | 35,218 | |
The following table presents supplemental cash flow information related to leases for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020, and 2019:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2021 | | 2020 | | 2019 |
| (in thousands) |
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities: | | | | | |
Operating cash flows from operating leases | $ | 35,173 | | | $ | 35,943 | | | $ | 34,380 | |
Operating cash flows from finance leases | 92 | | | 146 | | | 192 | |
Financing cash flows from finance leases | 681 | | | 612 | | | 492 | |
The following table presents supplemental information related to leases at December 31, 2021 and 2020:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| December 31, |
| 2021 | | 2020 |
Weighted-average remaining lease term | | | |
Operating leases | 11.7 years | | 12.3 years |
Finance leases | 1.0 year | | 2.0 years |
Weighted-average discount rate | | | |
Operating leases | 3.28 | % | | 3.56 | % |
Finance leases | 7.24 | % | | 7.45 | % |
The following table presents a maturity analysis of lessor and lessee arrangements outstanding as of December 31, 2021:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Lessor | | Lessee |
| Direct Financing and Sales-Type Leases | | Operating Leases | | Finance Leases |
| (in thousands) |
2022 | $ | 224,840 | | | $ | 35,629 | | | $ | 773 | |
2023 | 198,546 | | | 33,461 | | | 16 | |
2024 | 161,704 | | | 31,718 | | | 5 | |
2025 | 116,715 | | | 30,403 | | | 3 | |
2026 | 69,691 | | | 29,375 | | | — | |
Thereafter | 33,611 | | | 185,226 | | | — | |
Total lease payments | 805,107 | | | 345,812 | | | 797 | |
Less: present value discount | (57,311) | | | (63,473) | | | (30) | |
Total | $ | 747,796 | | | $ | 282,339 | | | $ | 767 | |
The total net investment in direct financing and sales-type leases was $747.8 million and $643.5 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, comprised of $745.2 million and $641.3 million in lease receivables and $2.6 million and $2.2 million in unguaranteed residuals, respectively. Total lease income was $28.1 million, $25.2 million and $19.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020, and 2019, respectively.
PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT, NET (Note 7)
At December 31, 2021 and 2020, premises and equipment, net consisted of:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2021 | | 2020 |
| (in thousands) |
Land | $ | 89,444 | | | $ | 90,379 | |
Buildings | 212,658 | | | 214,476 | |
Leasehold improvements | 92,186 | | | 88,898 | |
Furniture and equipment | 312,693 | | | 282,701 | |
Total premises and equipment | 706,981 | | | 676,454 | |
Accumulated depreciation and amortization | (380,675) | | | (356,657) | |
Total premises and equipment, net | $ | 326,306 | | | $ | 319,797 | |
Depreciation and amortization of premises and equipment included in non-interest expense for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 was approximately $28.8 million, $30.6 million, and $29.4 million, respectively.
GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS (Note 8)
The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill as allocated to our business segments, or reporting units thereof, for goodwill impairment analysis were:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Business Segment / Reporting Unit* |
| Wealth Management | | Consumer Lending | | Commercial Lending | | Investment Management | | Total |
| (in thousands) |
Balance at December 31, 2019 | $ | 21,218 | | | $ | 306,572 | | | $ | 825,767 | | | $ | 220,068 | | | $ | 1,373,625 | |
Goodwill from business combinations | — | | | 597 | | | 8,175 | | | 45 | | | 8,817 | |
Balance at December 31, 2020 | $ | 21,218 | | | $ | 307,169 | | | $ | 833,942 | | | $ | 220,113 | | | $ | 1,382,442 | |
Goodwill from business combinations | 13,097 | | | 1,079 | | | 62,073 | | | 317 | | | 76,566 | |
Balance at December 31, 2021 | $ | 34,315 | | | $ | 308,248 | | | $ | 896,015 | | | $ | 220,430 | | | $ | 1,459,008 | |
* Valley’s Wealth Management Division is comprised of trust, asset management, insurance and tax credit advisory services. This reporting unit is included in the Consumer Lending segment for financial reporting purposes.
The goodwill from business combinations set forth in the table above during 2021 related to the Westchester and DV acquisitions and totaled $63.5 million and $13.1 million, respectively. Goodwill resulting from the DV acquisition was allocated entirely to the Wealth Management reporting unit. During 2020, goodwill from business combinations reflected the effect of the combined adjustments to the estimated fair values of certain loans, current taxes payable and deferred tax assets related to the Oritani acquisition on December 1, 2019. See Note 2 for further details related to these acquisitions.
There was no impairment of goodwill during the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019.
The following tables summarize other intangible assets as of December 31, 2021 and 2020:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Gross Intangible Assets | | Accumulated Amortization | | Valuation Allowance | | Net Intangible Assets |
| (in thousands) |
December 31, 2021 | | | | | | | |
Loan servicing rights | $ | 114,636 | | | $ | (90,951) | | | $ | — | | | $ | 23,685 | |
Core deposits | 109,290 | | | (65,488) | | | — | | | 43,802 | |
Other | 6,092 | | | (3,193) | | | — | | | 2,899 | |
Total other intangible assets | $ | 230,018 | | | $ | (159,632) | | | $ | — | | | $ | 70,386 | |
December 31, 2020 | | | | | | | |
Loan servicing rights | $ | 103,150 | | | $ | (80,340) | | | $ | (865) | | | $ | 21,945 | |
Core deposits | 101,160 | | | (53,747) | | | — | | | 47,413 | |
Other | 3,945 | | | (2,854) | | | — | | | 1,091 | |
Total other intangible assets | $ | 208,255 | | | $ | (136,941) | | | $ | (865) | | | $ | 70,449 | |
Core deposits are amortized using an accelerated method and have a weighted average amortization period of 9.2 years. The line item labeled “Other” included in the table above primarily consists of certain financial asset servicing contracts, customer lists and covenants not to compete, which are amortized over their expected lives generally using a straight-line method and have a weighted average amortization period of 6.0 years. Valley recorded $8.1 million of core deposit intangibles resulting from the Westchester acquisition. Valley evaluates core deposits and other intangibles for impairment when an indication of impairment exists. No impairment was recognized during the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019.
The following table summarizes the change in loan servicing rights during the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2021 | | 2020 | | 2019 |
| (in thousands) |
Loan servicing rights: | | | | | |
Balance at beginning of year | $ | 22,810 | | | $ | 24,732 | | | $ | 24,193 | |
Origination of loan servicing rights | 11,486 | | | 8,322 | | | 7,473 | |
Amortization expense | (10,611) | | | (10,244) | | | (6,934) | |
Balance at end of year | $ | 23,685 | | | $ | 22,810 | | | $ | 24,732 | |
Valuation allowance: | | | | | |
Balance at beginning of year | $ | (865) | | | $ | (47) | | | $ | (83) | |
Impairment adjustment | 865 | | | (818) | | | 36 | |
Balance at end of year | $ | — | | | $ | (865) | | | $ | (47) | |
Balance at end of year, net of valuation allowance | $ | 23,685 | | | $ | 21,945 | | | $ | 24,685 | |
Loan servicing rights are accounted for using the amortization method. As shown in the above table, Valley recorded net recoveries of impairment charges totaling $865 thousand and $36 thousand for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2019, respectively, and net impairment charges on its loan servicing rights totaling $818 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2020.
The Bank is a servicer of residential mortgage loan portfolios, and it is compensated for loan administrative services performed for mortgage servicing rights of loans originated and sold by the Bank, and to a lesser extent, purchased mortgage servicing rights. The aggregate principal balances of residential mortgage loans serviced by the Bank for others approximated $3.6 billion, $3.5 billion and $3.4 billion at December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The outstanding balance of loans serviced for others is not included in the consolidated statements of financial condition.
Valley recognized amortization expense on other intangible assets, including net recoveries of impairment charges on loan servicing rights (reflected in the table above), of $21.8 million, $24.6 million and $18.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
The following table presents the estimated amortization expense of other intangible assets over the next five-year period:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year | | Loan Servicing Rights | | Core Deposits | | Other |
| | (in thousands) |
2022 | | $ | 4,234 | | | $ | 11,401 | | | $ | 705 | |
2023 | | 3,433 | | | 9,510 | | | 572 | |
2024 | | 2,817 | | | 7,740 | | | 484 | |
2025 | | 2,321 | | | 5,970 | | | 396 | |
2026 | | 1,917 | | | 4,225 | | | 304 | |
DEPOSITS (Note 9)
Included in time deposits are certificates of deposit over $250 thousand totaling $861.5 million and $1.4 billion at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Interest expense on time deposits of $250 thousand or more totaled approximately $1.1 million, $4.5 million and $5.8 million in 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
The scheduled maturities of time deposits as of December 31, 2021 were as follows:
| | | | | | | | |
Year | | Amount |
| | (in thousands) |
2022 | | $ | 2,986,056 | |
2023 | | 434,952 | |
2024 | | 72,499 | |
2025 | | 40,134 | |
2026 | | 88,132 | |
Thereafter | | 65,271 | |
Total time deposits | | $ | 3,687,044 | |
Deposits from certain directors, executive officers and their affiliates totaled $92.3 million and $97.3 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
BORROWED FUNDS (Note 10)
Short-Term Borrowings
Short-term borrowings at December 31, 2021 and 2020 consisted of the following:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2021 | | 2020 |
| |
FHLB advances | $ | 500,000 | | | $ | 1,000,000 | |
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase | 155,726 | | | 147,958 | |
| | | |
Total short-term borrowings | $ | 655,726 | | | $ | 1,147,958 | |
The weighted average interest rate for short-term FHLB advances was 0.37 percent and 0.38 percent at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The interest payments on the FHLB advances totaling $500 million were hedged with interest rate swaps at December 31, 2021. See Note 15 for additional details.
Long-Term Borrowings
Long-term borrowings at December 31, 2021 and 2020 consisted of the following:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2021 | | 2020 |
| |
FHLB advances, net (1) | $ | 789,033 | | | $ | 1,592,252 | |
Subordinated debt, net (2) | 634,643 | | | 403,413 | |
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase | — | | | 300,000 | |
| | | |
Total long-term borrowings | $ | 1,423,676 | | | $ | 2,295,665 | |
| | | | | |
(1) | FHLB advances are presented net of unamortized premiums totaling $1.0 million at December 31, 2021 and prepayment penalties, and other purchase accounting adjustments totaling $2.6 million at December 31, 2020. |
(2) | Subordinated debt is presented net of unamortized debt issuance costs totaling $5.8 million and $2.7 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. |
FHLB Advances. Long-term FHLB advances had a weighted average interest rate of 1.88 percent and 2.02 percent at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. FHLB advances are secured by pledges of certain eligible collateral, including but not limited to, U.S. government and agency mortgage-backed securities and a blanket assignment of qualifying first lien mortgage loans, consisting of both residential mortgage and commercial real estate loans.
In June 2021, Valley prepaid $247.5 million of long-term FHLB advances with maturities scheduled through 2025 and a weighted average effective interest rate of 1.82 percent. In December 2020, Valley prepaid $534.3 million of long-term FHLB advances scheduled to mature in 2021 and 2022 with a weighted average effective interest rate of 2.48 percent. The June 2021 and December 2020 transactions were funded with excess cash liquidity and accounted for as an early debt extinguishment resulting in losses of $8.4 million and $9.7 million reported within non-interest expense for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Long-Term Borrowings
The long-term FHLB advances at December 31, 2021 are scheduled for contractual balance repayments as follows:
| | | | | | | | |
Year | | Amount |
| | (in thousands) |
| | |
2023 | | $ | 350,000 | |
2024 | | 165,000 | |
2025 | | 273,000 | |
| | |
| | |
Total long-term FHLB advances | | $ | 788,000 | |
There are no FHLB advances with scheduled repayments in years 2023 and thereafter, reported in the table above, which are callable for early redemption by the FHLB during 2022.
Subordinated Debt. On April 1, 2021, Valley redeemed, at par value, $60 million of its callable 6.25 percent subordinated notes originally due April 1, 2026. No gain or loss was incurred on this transaction.
At December 31, 2021, Valley had the following subordinated debt outstanding by its maturity date:
•$125 million of 5.125 percent subordinated notes issued in September 2013 and due September 27, 2023 with no call dates or prepayments allowed, unless certain conditions exist. Interest on the subordinated debentures is payable semi-annually in arrears on March 27 and September 27 of each year. In conjunction with the issuance, Valley entered into an interest rate swap transaction used to hedge the change in the fair value of the subordinated notes. In August 2016, the fair value interest rate swap with a notional amount of $125 million was terminated resulting in an adjusted fixed annual interest rate of 3.32 percent on the subordinated notes, after amortization of the derivative valuation adjustment recorded at the termination date. The subordinated notes had a net carrying value of $125.2 million and $130.5 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
•$100 million of 4.55 percent subordinated debentures (notes) issued in June 2015 and due June 30, 2025 with no call dates or prepayments allowed unless certain conditions exist. Interest on the subordinated notes is payable semi-annually in arrears on June 30 and December 30 of each year. The subordinated notes had a net carrying value of $99.6 million and $99.5 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
•$115 million of 5.25 percent Fixed-to-Floating Rate subordinated notes issued in June 2020 and due June 15, 2030 callable in whole or in part on or after June 15, 2025 or upon the occurrence of certain events. Interest on the subordinated notes during the initial five-year term through June 15, 2025 is payable semi-annually on June 15 and December 15. Thereafter, interest is expected to be set based on Three-Month Term Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) plus 514 basis points and paid quarterly through maturity of the notes. The subordinated notes had a net carrying value of $113.4 million and $113.3 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
•$300 million of 3.00 percent Fixed-to-Floating Rate subordinated notes issued in May 2021 and due June 15, 2031. The subordinated notes are callable in whole or in part on or after June 15, 2026 or upon the occurrence of certain events. Interest on the subordinated notes during the initial five year term through June 15, 2026 is payable semi-annually on June 15 and December 15. Thereafter, interest is expected to be set based on three-month SOFR plus 236 basis points and paid quarterly through maturity of the notes. At December 31, 2021, the subordinated notes had a carrying value of $296.4 million, net of unamortized debt issuance costs. During June 2021, Valley entered into an interest rate swap transaction used to hedge the change in the fair value of the $300 million in subordinated notes. See Note 15 for additional details.
Long-term securities sold under agreements to repurchase (repos). The long-term institutional repos had a weighted average interest rate of 3.37 percent at December 31, 2020. Long-term repos outstanding as of December 31, 2020 were repaid upon their respective contractual maturity dates during the third quarter 2021.
In September 2020, Valley prepaid $50 million of long-term institutional repo borrowings with an interest rate of 3.70 percent and an original contractual maturity date in January 2022. The debt prepayment was funded by excess cash liquidity. The transaction was accounted for as an early debt extinguishment resulting in a loss of $2.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2020.
Pledged Securities. The fair value of securities pledged to secure public deposits, repurchase agreements, lines of credit, FHLB advances and for other purposes required by law approximated $1.7 billion and $2.1 billion for December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
JUNIOR SUBORDINATED DEBENTURES ISSUED TO CAPITAL TRUSTS (Note 11)
All of the statutory trusts presented in the table below were acquired in past bank acquisitions. These trusts were established for the sole purpose of issuing trust preferred securities and related trust common securities. The proceeds from such issuances were used by the trust to purchase an equivalent amount of junior subordinated debentures issued by the acquired bank, and now assumed by Valley. The junior subordinated debentures, the sole assets of the trusts, are unsecured obligations of Valley, and are subordinate and junior in right of payment to all present and future senior and subordinated indebtedness and certain other financial obligations of Valley. Valley does not consolidate its capital trusts based on U.S. GAAP but wholly owns all of the common securities of each trust.
The table below summarizes the outstanding junior subordinated debentures and the related trust preferred securities issued by each trust as of December 31, 2021 and 2020:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| GCB Capital Trust III | | State Bancorp Capital Trust I | | State Bancorp Capital Trust II | | Aliant Statutory Trust II |
| ($ in thousands) |
Junior Subordinated Debentures: | | | | | | | |
December 31, 2021 | | | | | | | |
Carrying value (1) | $ | 24,743 | | | $ | 9,225 | | | $ | 8,730 | | | $ | 13,715 | |
Contractual principal balance | 24,743 | | | 10,310 | | | 10,310 | | | 15,464 | |
December 31, 2020 | | | | | | | |
Carrying value (1) | $ | 24,743 | | | $ | 9,125 | | | $ | 8,599 | | | $ | 13,598 | |
Contractual principal balance | 24,743 | | | 10,310 | | | 10,310 | | | 15,464 | |
| | | | | | | |
Annual interest rate | 3-mo. LIBOR+1.4% | | 3-mo. LIBOR+3.45% | | 3-mo. LIBOR+2.85% | | 3-mo. LIBOR+1.8% |
Stated maturity date | July 30, 2037 | | November 7, 2032 | | January 23, 2034 | | December 15, 2036 |
Initial call date | July 30, 2017 | | November 7, 2007 | | January 23, 2009 | | December 15, 2011 |
Trust Preferred Securities: | | | | | | | |
December 31, 2021 and 2020 | | | | | | | |
Face value | $ | 24,000 | | | $ | 10,000 | | | $ | 10,000 | | | $ | 15,000 | |
Annual distribution rate | 3-mo. LIBOR+1.4% | | 3-mo. LIBOR+3.45% | | 3-mo. LIBOR+2.85% | | 3-mo. LIBOR+1.8% |
Issuance date | July 2, 2007 | | October 29, 2002 | | December 19, 2003 | | December 14, 2006 |
Distribution dates (2) | Quarterly | | Quarterly | | Quarterly | | Quarterly |
(1)The carrying values include unamortized purchase accounting adjustments at December 31, 2021 and 2020.
(2)All cash distributions are cumulative.
The trust preferred securities are subject to mandatory redemption, in whole or in part, upon repayment of the junior subordinated debentures at the stated maturity date or upon early redemption. The trusts’ ability to pay amounts due on the trust preferred securities is solely dependent upon Valley making payments on the related junior subordinated debentures. Valley’s obligation under the junior subordinated debentures and other relevant trust agreements, in aggregate, constitutes a full and unconditional guarantee by Valley of the trusts’ obligations under the trust preferred securities issued. Under the junior subordinated debenture agreements, Valley has the right to defer payment of interest on the debentures and, therefore, distributions on the trust preferred securities, for up to five years, but not beyond the stated maturity dates in the table above. Currently, Valley has no intention to exercise its right to defer interest payments on the debentures.
The trust preferred securities are included in Valley’s total risk-based capital (as Tier 2 capital) for regulatory purposes at December 31, 2021 and 2020.
BENEFIT PLANS (Note 12)
Pension Plan
The Bank has a non-contributory defined benefit plan (qualified plan) covering most of its employees. The qualified plan benefits are based upon years of credited service and the employee’s highest average compensation as defined. Additionally, the Bank has a supplemental non-qualified, non-funded retirement plan, which is designed to supplement the pension plan for key officers, and Valley has a non-qualified, non-funded directors’ retirement plan (both of these plans are referred to as the “non-qualified plans” below).
Effective December 31, 2013, the benefits earned under the qualified and non-qualified plans were frozen. As a result, Valley re-measured the projected benefit obligation of the affected plans and the funded status of each plan at June 30, 2013. Consequently, participants in each plan will not accrue further benefits and their pension benefits will be determined based on their compensation and service as of December 31, 2013. Plan benefits will not increase for any compensation or service earned after such date. All participants were immediately vested in their frozen accrued benefits if they were employed by the Bank as of December 31, 2013.
The following table sets forth the change in the projected benefit obligation, the change in fair value of plan assets and the funded status and amounts recognized in Valley’s consolidated financial statements for the qualified and non-qualified plans at December 31, 2021 and 2020:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2021 | | 2020 |
| (in thousands) |
Change in projected benefit obligation: | | | |
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year | $ | 190,849 | | | $ | 175,405 | |
| | | |
Interest cost | 3,510 | | | 4,941 | |
| | | |
Actuarial loss | (5,418) | | | 18,813 | |
| | | |
Benefits paid | (8,737) | | | (8,310) | |
Projected benefit obligation at end of year | $ | 180,204 | | | $ | 190,849 | |
Change in fair value of plan assets: | | | |
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year | $ | 260,651 | | | $ | 236,621 | |
Actual return on plan assets | 25,057 | | | 30,987 | |
Employer contributions | 1,449 | | | 1,353 | |
Benefits paid | (8,737) | | | (8,310) | |
Fair value of plan assets at end of year* | $ | 278,420 | | | $ | 260,651 | |
| | | |
Funded status of the plan | | | |
Asset recognized | $ | 98,216 | | | $ | 69,802 | |
Accumulated benefit obligation | 180,204 | | | 190,849 | |
* Includes accrued interest receivable of $783 thousand and $623 thousand as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Amounts recognized as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss as of year-end that have not been recognized as a component of the net periodic pension expense for Valley’s qualified and non-qualified plans are presented in the following table. Valley expects to recognize approximately $698 thousand of the net actuarial loss reported in the following table as of December 31, 2021 as a component of net periodic pension expense during 2022.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2021 | | 2020 |
| (in thousands) |
Net actuarial loss | $ | 34,623 | | | $ | 50,272 | |
Prior service cost | 286 | | | 321 | |
Deferred tax benefit | (9,703) | | | (14,132) | |
Total | $ | 25,206 | | | $ | 36,461 | |
The non-qualified plans had a projected benefit obligation, accumulated benefit obligation, and fair value of plan assets as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2021 | | 2020 |
| (in thousands) |
Projected benefit obligation | $ | 18,911 | | | $ | 20,513 | |
Accumulated benefit obligation | 18,911 | | | 20,513 | |
Fair value of plan assets | — | | | — | |
In determining discount rate assumptions, management looks to current rates on fixed-income corporate debt securities that receive a rating of AA or higher from either Moody’s or S&P with durations equal to the expected benefit payments streams required of each plan. The weighted average discount rate used in determining the actuarial present value of benefit obligations for the qualified and non-qualified plans was 2.87 percent and 2.52 percent as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
The net periodic pension income for the qualified and non-qualified plans reported within other non-interest expense included the following components for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2021 | | 2020 | | 2019 |
| (in thousands) |
Interest cost | $ | 3,510 | | | $ | 4,941 | | | $ | 6,113 | |
Expected return on plan assets | (16,364) | | | (17,200) | | | (16,453) | |
Amortization of net loss | 1,538 | | | 1,003 | | | 264 | |
| | | | | |
Total net periodic pension income | $ | (11,316) | | | $ | (11,256) | | | $ | (10,076) | |
Valley estimated the interest cost component of net periodic pension income (as shown in the table above) using a spot rate approach for the plans by applying the specific spot rates along the yield curve to the relevant projected cash flows. Valley believes this provides a better estimate of interest costs than a single weighted average discount rate derived from the yield curve used to measure the benefit obligation at the beginning of the applicable period.
Other changes in the qualified and non-qualified plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive (loss) income for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020 were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2021 | | 2020 |
| (in thousands) |
Net (gain) loss | $ | (14,381) | | | $ | 4,754 | |
| | | |
Amortization of prior service cost | 135 | | | 136 | |
Amortization of actuarial loss | (1,538) | | | (1,003) | |
Total recognized in other comprehensive (loss) income | $ | (15,784) | | | $ | 3,887 | |
Total recognized in net periodic pension income and other comprehensive (loss) income (before tax) | $ | (26,965) | | | $ | (7,233) | |
The benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, as appropriate, expected to be paid in future years are presented in the following table:
| | | | | | | | |
Year | | Amount |
| | (in thousands) |
2022 | | $ | 9,043 | |
2023 | | 9,319 | |
2024 | | 9,533 | |
2025 | | 9,800 | |
2026 | | 9,928 | |
Thereafter | | 49,629 | |
The weighted average discount rate, expected long-term rate of return on assets and rate of compensation increase used in determining Valley’s pension expense for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2021 | | 2020 | | 2019 |
Discount rate - projected benefit obligation | 2.50 | % | | 3.29 | % | | 4.30 | % |
Discount rate - interest cost | 1.88 | % | | 2.62 | % | | 3.99 | % |
Expected long-term return on plan assets | 6.75 | % | | 7.50 | % | | 7.50 | % |
Rate of compensation increase | N/A | | N/A | | N/A |
The expected rate of return on plan assets assumption is based on the concept that it is a long-term assumption independent of the current economic environment and changes would be made in the expected return only when long-term inflation expectations change, asset allocations change materially or when asset class returns are expected to change for the long-term.
In accordance with Section 402 (c) of ERISA, the qualified plan’s investment managers are granted full discretion to buy, sell, invest and reinvest the portions of the portfolio assigned to them consistent with the Bank’s Pension Committee’s policy and guidelines. The target asset allocation set for the qualified plan is an approximate equal weighting of 50 percent fixed income securities and 50 percent equity securities. Although much depends upon market conditions, the absolute investment
objective for the equity portion is to earn at least a mid-to-high single digit return, after adjustment by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), over rolling five-year periods. Relative performance should be above the median of a suitable grouping of other equity portfolios and a suitable index over rolling three-year periods. For the fixed income portion, the absolute objective is to earn a positive annual real return, after adjustment by the CPI, over rolling five-year periods. Relative performance should be better than the median performance of bonds when judged against a suitable index of other fixed income portfolios and above the Merrill Lynch Intermediate Government/Corporate Index over rolling three-year periods. Cash equivalents will be invested in money market funds or in other high quality instruments approved by the Trustees of the qualified plan.
The exposure of the plan assets of the qualified plan to risk is limited by the Bank’s Pension Committee’s diversification of the investments into various investment options with multiple asset managers. The Pension Committee engages an investment management advisory firm that regularly monitors the performance of the asset managers and ensures they are within compliance of the policies adopted by the Trustees. If the risk profile and overall return of assets managed are not in line with the risk objectives or expected return benchmarks for the qualified plan, the advisory firm may recommend the termination of an asset manager to the Pension Committee. In general, the plan assets of the qualified plan are investment securities that are well-diversified in terms of industry, capitalization and asset class.
The following table presents the qualified plan weighted-average asset allocations by asset category that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis by level within the fair value hierarchy under ASC Topic 820. Financial assets are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. See Note 3 for further details regarding the fair value hierarchy.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using: |
| % of Total Investments | | December 31, 2021 | | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) |
| ($ in thousands) |
Assets: | | | | | | | | | |
Investments: | | | | | | | | | |
Mutual funds | 28 | % | | $ | 79,462 | | | $ | 79,462 | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | |
Corporate bonds | 23 | | | 64,715 | | | — | | | 64,715 | | | — | |
U.S. Treasury securities | 22 | | | 59,931 | | | 59,931 | | | — | | | — | |
Equity securities | 21 | | | 57,987 | | | 57,987 | | | — | | | — | |
U.S. government agency securities | 4 | | | 10,590 | | | — | | | 10,590 | | | — | |
Cash and money market funds | 2 | | | 4,952 | | | 4,952 | | | — | | | — | |
Total investments | 100 | % | | $ | 277,637 | | | $ | 202,332 | | | $ | 75,305 | | | $ | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using: |
| % of Total Investments | | December 31, 2020 | | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) |
| ($ in thousands) |
Assets: | | | | | | | | | |
Investments: | | | | | | | | | |
Mutual funds | 18 | % | | $ | 48,041 | | | $ | 48,041 | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | |
Corporate bonds | 20 | | | 51,410 | | | — | | | 51,410 | | | — | |
U.S. Treasury securities | 20 | | | 52,549 | | | 52,549 | | | — | | | — | |
Equity securities | 37 | | | 94,434 | | | 94,434 | | | — | | | — | |
U.S. government agency securities | 3 | | | 8,174 | | | — | | | 8,174 | | | — | |
Cash and money market funds | 2 | | | 5,420 | | | 5,420 | | | — | | | — | |
Total investments | 100 | % | | $ | 260,028 | | | $ | 200,444 | | | $ | 59,584 | | | $ | — | |
The following is a description of the valuation methodologies used for assets measured at fair value:
Equity securities, U.S. Treasury securities and cash and money market funds are valued at fair value in the tables above utilizing exchange quoted prices in active markets for identical instruments (Level 1 inputs). Mutual funds are measured at their respective net asset values, which represents fair values of the securities held in the funds based on exchange quoted prices available in active markets (Level 1 inputs).
Corporate bonds and U.S. government agency securities are reported at fair value utilizing Level 2 inputs. The prices for these investments are derived from market quotations and matrix pricing obtained through an independent pricing service. Such fair value measurements consider observable data that may include dealer quotes, market spreads, cash flows, the U.S. Treasury yield curve, live trading levels, trade execution data, market consensus prepayment speeds, credit information and the bond’s terms and conditions, among other things.
Based upon actuarial estimates, Valley does not expect to make any contributions to the qualified plan. Funding requirements for subsequent years are uncertain and will significantly depend on whether the plan’s actuary changes any assumptions used to calculate plan funding levels, the actual return on plan assets, changes in the employee groups covered by the plan, and any legislative or regulatory changes affecting plan funding requirements. For tax planning, financial planning, cash flow management or cost reduction purposes, Valley may increase, accelerate, decrease or delay contributions to the plan to the extent permitted by law.
Other Non-Qualified Plans
Valley maintains separate non-qualified plans for former directors and senior management of Merchants Bank of New York acquired in January of 2001. At December 31, 2021 and 2020, the remaining obligations under these plans were $1.3 million and $1.4 million, respectively, of which $348 thousand and $399 thousand, respectively, were funded by Valley. As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, all of the obligations were included in other liabilities and $660 thousand (net of a $257 thousand tax benefit) and $731 thousand (net of a $286 thousand tax benefit), respectively, were recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss. The $917 thousand in accumulated other comprehensive loss will be reclassified to expense on a straight-line basis over the remaining benefit periods of these non-qualified plans.
Valley assumed, in the Oritani acquisition on December 1, 2019, certain obligations under non-qualified retirement plans described below:
•Non-qualified benefit equalization pension plan that provided benefits to certain officers who were disallowed certain benefits under former Oritani’s qualified pension plan. This plan was terminated on November 30, 2019 and the accrued benefits are payable to plan participants in five equal installments beginning annually on December 1, 2020 through December 1, 2024. The funded obligation under this plan totaled $979 thousand and $1.3 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
•Supplemental Executive Retirement Income Agreement (the SERP) for the former CEO of Oritani. The SERP is a retirement benefit with a minimum payment period of 20 years upon death, disability, normal retirement, early retirement or separation from service after a change in control. Distributions from the plan began on July 1, 2020. The funded obligation under the SERP totaled $13.9 million and $13.6 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Valley recorded $357 thousand and $1.5 million of expenses related to the SERP for the year ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
The above Oritani non-qualified plans are secured by investments in money market mutual funds which are held in a trust and classified as equity securities on the consolidated statements of financial condition at both December 31, 2021 and 2020.
Valley also assumed an Executive Group Life Insurance Replacement (“Split-Dollar”) Plan from Oritani. The Split-Dollar plan provides life insurance benefits to certain eligible employees upon death while employed or following termination of employment due to disability, retirement or change in control. Participants in the Split-Dollar plan are entitled to up to two times their base annual salary, as defined by the plan. The accrued liability for the Split-Dollar plan totaled $1.7 million and $1.8 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Valley recorded $104 thousand and $812 thousand of expenses related to the Split-Dollar plan for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Bonus Plan
Valley National Bank and its subsidiaries may award cash incentive and merit bonuses to its officers and employees based upon a percentage of the covered employees’ compensation as determined by the achievement of certain performance objectives. Amounts charged to salary expense were $29.0 million, $25.1 million and $19.1 million during 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
Savings and Investment Plan
Valley National Bank maintains a 401(k) plan that covers eligible employees of the Bank and its subsidiaries and allows employees to contribute a percentage of their salary, with the Bank matching a certain percentage of the employee contribution in cash invested in accordance with each participant’s investment elections. The Bank recorded $10.7 million, $10.1 million and $8.6 million in expense for contributions to the plan for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
Deferred Compensation Plan
Valley has a non-qualified, unfunded deferred compensation plan maintained for the purpose of providing deferred compensation for selected employees participating in the 401(k) plan whose contributions are limited as a result of the limitations under Section 401(a)(17) of the Internal Revenue Code. Each participant in the plan is permitted to defer per calendar year, up to five percent of the portion of the participant’s salary and cash bonus above the limit in effect under the Company's 401(k) plan and receive employer matching contributions that become fully vested after two years of participation in the plan. Plan participants also receive an annual interest crediting on their balances held as of December 31 each year. Benefits are generally paid to a participant in a single lump sum following the participant’s separation from service with Valley. Valley recorded plan expenses of $415 thousand, $372 thousand and $273 thousand for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively. As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, Valley had an unsecured general liability of $2.4 million and $1.7 million, respectively, included in accrued expenses and other liabilities in connection with this plan.
Stock Based Compensation
On April 19, 2021, Valley's shareholders approved the Valley National Bancorp 2021 Incentive Compensation Plan (the 2021 Plan) administered by the Compensation and Human Capital Management Committee (the Committee) as appointed by Valley's Board of Directors. The purposes of the 2021 Plan are to provide additional incentives to officers and key employees of Valley and its subsidiaries, whose substantial contributions are essential to the continued growth and success of Valley, and to attract and retain officers, other employees and non-employee directors whose efforts will result in the continued and long-term growth of Valley's business. Upon shareholder approval of the 2021 Plan, Valley ceased granting new awards under the Valley National Bancorp 2016 Long-Term Stock Incentive Plan (the 2016 Plan).
Under the 2021 Plan, Valley may issue awards to its officers, employees and non-employee directors in amounts up to 9 million shares of common stock (less one share for every share granted after December 31, 2020 under the 2016 Plan) in the form of stock appreciation rights, both incentive and non-qualified stock options, restricted stock and restricted stock units (RSUs). If after December 31, 2020 any award granted under the 2016 Plan is forfeited, expires, settled for cash, withheld for tax obligations, or otherwise does not result in the issuance of all or a portion of the shares subject to such award, the shares will be added to the 2021 Plan's share reserve. As of December 31, 2021, 7.4 million shares of common stock were available for issuance under the 2021 Plan. The essential features of each award are described in the award agreement relating to that award. The grant, exercise, vesting, settlement or payment of an award may be based upon the fair value of Valley's common stock on the last sale price reported for Valley's common stock on such date or the last sale price reported preceding such date, except for performance-based awards with a market condition. The grant date fair values of performance-based awards that vest based on a market condition are determined by a third-party specialist using a Monte Carlo valuation model.
Valley recorded total stock-based compensation expense of $20.9 million, $16.5 million and $15.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The stock-based compensation expense for 2021, 2020 and 2019 included $1.6 million, $1.5 million and $2.1 million, respectively, related to stock awards granted to retirement eligible employees. Compensation expense for awards to retirement eligible employees is amortized monthly over a one year required service period after the grant date. The fair values of all other stock awards are expensed over the shorter of the vesting or required service period. As of December 31, 2021, the unrecognized amortization expense for all stock-based compensation totaled approximately $18.6 million and will be recognized over an average remaining vesting period of approximately 1.82 years.
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). Restricted stock units are awarded as (1) performance-based RSUs and (2) time-based RSUs. Performance based RSUs vest based on (i) growth in tangible book value per share plus dividends and (ii) total shareholder return as compared to our peer group. The performance based RSUs "cliff" vest after three years based on the cumulative performance of Valley during that time period. Generally, time-based RSUs vest ratably one-third each year over a three-year vesting period. The RSUs earn dividend equivalents (equal to cash dividends paid on Valley's common share) over the applicable performance or service period. Dividend equivalents, per the terms of the agreements, are accumulated and paid to the grantee at the vesting date, or forfeited if the applicable performance or service conditions are not met. The grant date fair value of the performance-based RSUs was $12.36, $10.99 and $10.14 per share for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020, and 2019, respectively. The grant date fair value of time-based RSUs was $12.01, $10.29, $10.32 for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020, and 2019, respectively.
The following table sets forth the changes in RSUs outstanding for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Restricted Stock Units Outstanding |
| 2021 | | 2020 | | 2019 |
Outstanding at beginning of year | 3,228,659 | | | 2,158,255 | | | 1,378,886 | |
| | | | | |
Granted | 1,999,376 | | | 2,030,026 | | | 1,412,941 | |
Vested | (1,239,797) | | | (879,085) | | | (500,204) | |
Forfeited | (98,482) | | | (80,537) | | | (133,368) | |
Outstanding at end of year | 3,889,756 | | | 3,228,659 | | | 2,158,255 | |
Restricted Stock. Restricted stock is awarded to key employees providing for the immediate award of our common stock subject to certain vesting and restrictions under the 2016 Plan. Compensation expense is measured based on the grant-date fair value of the shares.
The following table sets forth the changes in restricted stock awards outstanding for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Restricted Stock Awards Outstanding |
| 2021 | | 2020 | | 2019 |
Outstanding at beginning of year | 413,701 | | | 1,058,681 | | | 1,720,968 | |
| | | | | |
Vested | (191,104) | | | (610,607) | | | (547,653) | |
Forfeited | (8,689) | | | (34,373) | | | (114,634) | |
Outstanding at end of year | 213,908 | | | 413,701 | | | 1,058,681 | |
Stock Options. The fair value of each option granted on the date of grant is estimated using a binomial option pricing model. The fair values are estimated using assumptions for dividend yield based on the annual dividend rate; the stock volatility, based on Valley’s historical and implied stock price volatility; the risk-free interest rates, based on the U.S. Treasury constant maturity bonds, in effect on the actual grant dates, with a remaining term approximating the expected term of the options; and expected exercise term calculated based on Valley’s historical exercise experience.
The following table summarizes stock options activity as of December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 and changes during the years ended on those dates:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2021 | | 2020 | | 2019 |
| | | Weighted Average Exercise | | | | Weighted Average Exercise | | | | Weighted Average Exercise |
Stock Options | Shares | | Price | | Shares | | Price | | Shares | | Price |
Outstanding at beginning of year | 2,986,347 | | | $ | 7 | | | 3,453,516 | | | $ | 8 | | | 1,051,787 | | | $ | 7 | |
Acquired in business combinations | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 3,130,171 | | | 8 | |
Exercised | (2,768,792) | | | 7 | | | (249,308) | | | 8 | | | (716,920) | | | 7 | |
Forfeited or expired | — | | | — | | | (217,861) | | | 11 | | | (11,522) | | | 8 | |
Outstanding at end of year | 217,555 | | | 7 | | | 2,986,347 | | | 7 | | | 3,453,516 | | | 8 | |
Exercisable at year-end | 217,555 | | | 7 | | | 2,986,347 | | | 7 | | | 3,339,517 | | | 8 | |
The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding and exercisable at December 31, 2021:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Options Outstanding and Exercisable |
Range of Exercise Prices | | Number of Options | | Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years | | Weighted Average Exercise Price |
$2-4 | | 1,830 | | | 1.0 | | $ | 4 | |
4-6 | | 50,892 | | | 4.1 | | 6 | |
6-8 | | 107,233 | | | 5.2 | | 7 | |
8-10 | | 32,000 | | | 6.3 | | 10 | |
10-12 | | 25,600 | | | 6.7 | | 10 | |
| | 217,555 | | | 5.2 | | 7 | |
INCOME TAXES (Note 13)
Income tax expense for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 consisted of the following:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2021 | | 2020 | | 2019 |
| (in thousands) |
Current expense: | | | | | |
Federal | $ | 92,823 | | | $ | 96,057 | | | $ | 95,317 | |
State | 47,249 | | | 48,463 | | | 36,457 | |
| 140,072 | | | 144,520 | | | 131,774 | |
Deferred expense (benefit): | | | | | |
Federal | 19,709 | | | (3,109) | | | 10,444 | |
State | 7,118 | | | (1,951) | | | 4,784 | |
| 26,827 | | | (5,060) | | | 15,228 | |
Total income tax expense | $ | 166,899 | | | $ | 139,460 | | | $ | 147,002 | |
The tax effects of temporary differences that gave rise to the significant portions of the deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2021 and 2020 were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2021 | | 2020 |
| (in thousands) |
Deferred tax assets: | | | |
Allowance for credit losses | $ | 102,704 | | | $ | 96,508 | |
| | | |
| | | |
Employee benefits | 22,587 | | | 20,888 | |
| | | |
Net operating loss carryforwards | 15,859 | | | 17,814 | |
Purchase accounting | 8,971 | | | 10,354 | |
| | | |
| | | |
Other | 11,689 | | | 24,677 | |
Total deferred tax assets | 161,810 | | | 170,241 | |
Deferred tax liabilities: | | | |
Pension plans | 30,119 | | | 22,705 | |
Depreciation | 10,343 | | | 3,829 | |
Investment securities | 3,728 | | | 12,690 | |
Other investments | 12,069 | | | 9,584 | |
| | | |
Core deposit intangibles | 11,888 | | | 12,960 | |
Other | 14,133 | | | 12,226 | |
Total deferred tax liabilities | 82,280 | | | 73,994 | |
Valuation Allowance | 916 | | | 916 | |
Net deferred tax asset (included in other assets) | $ | 78,614 | | | $ | 95,331 | |
Valley's federal net operating loss carryforwards totaled approximately $56.0 million at December 31, 2021 and expire during the period from 2029 through 2034. Valley's capital loss carryforwards totaled $3.1 million at December 31, 2021 and begin to expire at December 31, 2022. State net operating loss carryforwards totaled approximately $86.2 million at December 31, 2021 and expire during the period from 2029 through 2038.
Based upon taxes paid and projections of future taxable income over the periods in which the net deferred tax assets are deductible, management believes that it is more likely than not that Valley will realize the benefits, net of an immaterial valuation allowance, of these deductible differences and loss carryforwards.
Reconciliation between the reported income tax expense and the amount computed by multiplying consolidated income before taxes by the statutory federal income tax rate of 21 percent for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020, and 2019 were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2021 | | 2020 | | 2019 |
| (in thousands) |
Federal income tax at expected statutory rate | $ | 134,556 | | | $ | 111,314 | | | $ | 95,927 | |
Increase (decrease) due to: | | | | | |
State income tax expense, net of federal tax effect | 42,950 | | | 36,744 | | | 32,581 | |
Tax-exempt interest, net of interest incurred to carry tax-exempt securities | (2,298) | | | (2,786) | | | (3,118) | |
Bank owned life insurance | (1,759) | | | (2,026) | | | (1,637) | |
Tax credits from securities and other investments | (9,942) | | | (10,071) | | | (11,636) | |
FDIC insurance premium | 2,457 | | | 3,283 | | | 2,507 | |
Addition to reserve for uncertainties | — | | | — | | | 31,123 | |
Other, net | 935 | | | 3,002 | | | 1,255 | |
Income tax expense | $ | 166,899 | | | $ | 139,460 | | | $ | 147,002 | |
We invest in certain tax-advantaged investments that support qualified affordable housing projects and community development. Our investments in these projects are designed to generate a return primarily through the realization of federal and state income tax credits, and other tax benefits, over specified time periods. Third parties perform diligence on these investments for us on which we rely both at inception and on an on-going basis. We are subject to the risk that previously recorded tax credits, which remain subject to recapture by taxing authorities based on compliance features required to be met at the project level, may fail to meet certain government compliance requirements and may not be able to be realized.
We previously invested in mobile solar generators sold and leased back by DC Solar and its affiliates (DC Solar). DC Solar had its assets frozen in December 2018 by the U.S. Department of Justice. DC Solar and related entities are in Chapter 7 bankruptcy. A group of investors who purchased mobile solar generators from, and leased them back to DC Solar, including Valley received tax credits for making these renewable resource investments. During the fourth quarter 2019, several of the co- conspirators pleaded guilty to fraud in the on-going federal investigation. Based upon this information, Valley deemed that its tax positions related to the DC Solar funds did not meet the more likely than not recognition threshold in Valley's tax reserve assessment at December 31, 2019. The principals pleaded guilty to fraud in early 2020.
As of December 31, 2021, 2020, and 2019, Valley believes that it was fully reserved for the renewable energy tax credits and other tax benefits previously recognized from the investments in the DC Solar funds plus interest. Valley will continue to evaluate all of its existing tax positions, however, there can be no assurance that Valley will not recognize additional tax provisions related to this uncertain tax liability in the future.
A reconciliation of Valley’s reserve for uncertain tax liability positions for 2021, 2020 and 2019 is presented in the table below:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2021 | | 2020 | | 2019 |
| (in thousands) |
Beginning balance | $ | 31,918 | | | $ | 31,918 | | | $ | — | |
Additions based on tax positions related to prior years | — | | | — | | | 31,918 | |
Settlements with taxing authorities | (1,559) | | | — | | | — | |
| | | | | |
Ending balance | $ | 30,359 | | | $ | 31,918 | | | $ | 31,918 | |
The entire balance of the reserve for uncertain tax liability positions, if recognized, would favorably affect Valley's effective income tax rate. It is reasonably possible that the reserve for uncertain tax liability positions could increase or decrease in the next twelve months due to completion of tax authorities’ exams or the expiration of statutes of limitations. The United States Bankruptcy Court approved the sale of the mobile solar generators resulting in a tax credit recapture of $1.6 million in 2021. Management estimates that the reserve for uncertain tax liability positions could decrease by $7.0 million within the next twelve months. Valley’s policy is to report interest and penalties, if any, related to the reserve for uncertain tax liability positions in income tax expense. Valley accrued approximately $8.7 million, $7.6 million, and $6.1 million of interest expense associated with Valley’s uncertain tax positions at December 31, 2021, 2020, and 2019, respectively.
Valley monitors its tax positions for the underlying facts, circumstances, and information available including the federal investigation of DC Solar and changes in tax laws, case law and regulations that may necessitate subsequent de-recognition of previous tax benefits.
Valley files income tax returns in the U.S. federal and various state jurisdictions. With few exceptions, Valley is no longer subject to U.S. federal and state income tax examinations by tax authorities for years before 2017. Valley is under examination by the IRS and also under routine examination by various state jurisdictions, and we expect the examinations to be completed within the next 12 months. Valley has considered, for all open audits, any potential adjustments in establishing our reserve for uncertain tax liability positions as of December 31, 2021.
TAX CREDIT INVESTMENTS (Note 14)
Valley’s tax credit investments are primarily related to investments promoting qualified affordable housing projects, and other investments related to community development and renewable energy sources. Some of these tax-advantaged investments support Valley’s regulatory compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act. Valley’s investments in these entities generate a return primarily through the realization of federal income tax credits, and other tax benefits, such as tax deductions from operating losses of the investments, over specified time periods. These tax credits and deductions are recognized as a reduction of income tax expense.
Valley’s tax credit investments are carried in other assets on the consolidated statements of financial condition. Valley’s unfunded capital and other commitments related to the tax credit investments are carried in accrued expenses and other liabilities on the consolidated statements of financial condition. Valley recognizes amortization of tax credit investments, including impairment losses, within non-interest expense in the consolidated statements of income using the equity method of accounting. After initial measurement, the carrying amounts of tax credit investments with non-readily determinable fair values are increased to reflect Valley's share of income of the investee and are reduced to reflect its share of losses of the investee, dividends received and impairments, if applicable. See the "Impairment Analysis" section below.
The following table presents the balances of Valley’s affordable housing tax credit investments, other tax credit investments, and related unfunded commitments at December 31, 2021 and 2020:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| December 31, |
| 2021 | | 2020 |
| (in thousands) |
Other Assets: | | | |
Affordable housing tax credit investments, net | $ | 15,343 | | | $ | 20,074 | |
Other tax credit investments, net | 57,006 | | | 47,301 | |
Total tax credit investments, net | $ | 72,349 | | | $ | 67,375 | |
Other Liabilities: | | | |
Unfunded affordable housing tax credit commitments | $ | 1,360 | | | $ | 1,379 | |
| | | |
Total unfunded tax credit commitments | $ | 1,360 | | | $ | 1,379 | |
The following table presents other information relating to Valley’s affordable housing tax credit investments and other tax credit investments for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2021 | | 2020 | | 2019 |
| (in thousands) |
Components of Income Tax Expense: | | | | | |
Affordable housing tax credits and other tax benefits | $ | 3,525 | | | $ | 5,414 | | | $ | 6,757 | |
Other tax credit investment credits and tax benefits | 9,320 | | | 8,065 | | | 10,205 | |
Total reduction in income tax expense | $ | 12,845 | | | $ | 13,479 | | | $ | 16,962 | |
Amortization of Tax Credit Investments: | | | | | |
Affordable housing tax credit investment losses | $ | 1,895 | | | $ | 2,714 | | | $ | 2,184 | |
Affordable housing tax credit investment impairment losses | 1,416 | | | 2,209 | | | 3,295 | |
Other tax credit investment losses | 811 | | | 2,234 | | | 5,668 | |
Other tax credit investment impairment losses | 6,788 | | | 6,178 | | | 9,245 | |
Total amortization of tax credit investments recorded in non-interest expense | $ | 10,910 | | | $ | 13,335 | | | $ | 20,392 | |
Impairment Analysis
An impairment loss is recognized when the fair value of the tax credit investment is less than its carrying value. The determination of whether a decline in value of a tax credit investment is other-than-temporary requires significant judgment and is performed separately for each investment. The tax credit investments are reviewed for impairment quarterly, or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the investment might not be recoverable. These circumstances can include, but are not limited to, the following factors:
•Evidence that Valley does not have the ability to recover the carrying amount of the investment;
•The inability of the investee to sustain earnings;
•A current fair value of the investment based upon cash flow projections that is less than the carrying amount; and
•Change in the economic or technological environment that could adversely affect the investee’s operations.
On a periodic basis, Valley obtains financial reporting on its underlying tax credit investment assets for each fund. The financial reporting is reviewed for deterioration in the financial condition of the fund, the level of cash flows and any significant losses or impairment charges. Valley also regularly reviews the condition and continuing prospects of the underlying operations of the investment with the fund manager, including any observations from site visits and communications with the Fund Sponsor, if available. Annually, Valley obtains the audited financial statements prepared by an independent accounting firm for each investment, as well as the annual tax returns. Generally, none of the aforementioned review factors are individually conclusive and the relative importance of each factor will vary based on facts and circumstances. However, the longer the expected period of recovery, the stronger and more objective the positive evidence needs to be in order to overcome the presumption that the impairment is other than temporary. If management determines that a decline in value is other than temporary per its quarterly and annual reviews, including current probable cash flow projections, the applicable tax credit investment is written down to its estimated fair value through an impairment charge to earnings, which establishes the new cost basis of the investment.
During the first quarter 2019, Valley determined that future cash flows related to the remaining investments in three federal renewable energy tax credit funds sponsored by DC Solar (previously reported in other tax credit investments, net) were not probable based upon new information available, including the sponsor’s bankruptcy proceedings which were reclassified to Chapter 7 from Chapter 11 in late March 2019. As a result, Valley recognized an impairment charge for the entire aggregate unamortized investment of $2.4 million in the first quarter 2019, which is included within amortization of tax credit investments for the year ended December 31, 2019.
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note 15)
Financial Instruments with Off-balance Sheet Risk
In the ordinary course of business in meeting the financial needs of its customers, Valley, through its subsidiary Valley National Bank, is a party to various financial instruments, which are not reflected in the consolidated financial statements. These financial instruments include standby and commercial letters of credit, unused portions of lines of credit and commitments to extend various types of credit. These instruments involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit risk in excess of the amounts recognized in the consolidated financial statements. The commitment or contract amount of these instruments is an indicator of the Bank’s level of involvement in each type of instrument as well as the exposure to credit loss in the event of non-performance by the other party to the financial instrument. The Bank seeks to limit any exposure of credit loss by applying the same credit policies in making commitments, as it does for on-balance sheet lending facilities.
The following table provides a summary of financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk at December 31, 2021 and 2020:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2021 | | 2020 |
| (in thousands) |
Commitments under commercial loans and lines of credit | $ | 7,460,742 | | | $ | 5,595,561 | |
Home equity and other revolving lines of credit | 1,689,315 | | | 1,485,911 | |
Standby letters of credit | 311,285 | | | 293,900 | |
Outstanding residential mortgage loan commitments | 355,523 | | | 244,286 | |
Commitments to sell loans | 210,468 | | | 155,627 | |
Commitments under unused lines of credit—credit card | 96,734 | | | 68,735 | |
Commercial letters of credit | 7,603 | | | 1,663 | |
Total | $ | 10,131,670 | | | $ | 7,845,683 | |
Obligations to advance funds under commitments to extend credit, including commitments under unused lines of credit, are agreements to lend to a customer as long as there is no violation of any condition established in the contract. Commitments generally have specified expiration dates, which may be extended upon request, or other termination clauses and generally require payment of a fee. These commitments do not necessarily represent future cash requirements, as it is anticipated that many of these commitments will expire without being fully drawn upon. The Bank’s lending activity for outstanding loan commitments is primarily to customers within the states of New Jersey, New York, and Florida.
Standby letters of credit represent the guarantee by the Bank of the obligations or performance of the bank customer in the event of the default of payment or nonperformance to a third party beneficiary.
Loan sale commitments represent contracts for the sale of residential mortgage loans to third parties in the ordinary course of the Bank’s business. These commitments require the Bank to deliver loans within a specific period to the third party. The risk to the Bank is its non-delivery of loans required by the commitment, which could lead to financial penalties. The Bank has not defaulted on its loan sale commitments.
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities
Valley is exposed to certain risks arising from both its business operations and economic conditions. Valley principally manages its exposure to a wide variety of business and operational risks through management of its core business activities. Valley manages economic risks, including interest rate and liquidity risks, primarily by managing the amount, sources, and duration of its assets and liabilities and, from time to time, the use of derivative financial instruments. Specifically, Valley enters into derivative financial instruments to manage exposures that arise from business activities that result in the payment of future known and uncertain cash amounts, the value of which are determined by interest rates. Valley’s derivative financial instruments are used to manage differences in the amount, timing, and duration of Valley’s known or expected cash receipts and its known or expected cash payments related to assets and liabilities as outlined below.
Cash Flow Hedges of Interest Rate Risk. Valley’s objectives in using interest rate derivatives are to add stability to interest expense and to manage its exposure to interest rate movements. To accomplish this objective, Valley uses interest rate swaps as part of its interest rate risk management strategy. Interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges involve the
payment of either fixed or variable-rate amounts in exchange for the receipt of variable or fixed-rate amounts from a counterparty.
At December 31, 2021, Valley had 6 interest rate swap agreements, with a total notional amount of $700 million, to hedge the changes in cash flows associated with certain short-term FHLB advances and brokered deposits. Valley is required to pay fixed-rates of interest ranging from 0.05 percent to 0.63 percent and receives variable rates of interest that reset quarterly based on three-month LIBOR. Expiration dates for the swaps range from March 2022 to August 2022.
Fair Value Hedges of Fixed Rate Assets and Liabilities. Valley is exposed to changes in the fair value of fixed rate subordinated debt due to changes in interest rates. From time to time, Valley uses interest rate swaps to manage its exposure to changes in fair value on these instruments attributable to changes in the designated benchmark interest rate. Interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedges involve the receipt of variable rate payments from a counterparty in exchange for Valley making fixed rate payments over the life of the agreements without the exchange of the underlying notional amount. For derivatives that are designated and qualify as fair value hedges, the gain or loss on the derivative as well as the loss or gain on the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk are recognized in earnings. Valley includes the gain or loss on the hedged items in the same income statement line item as the loss or gain on the related derivatives.
In June 2021, Valley entered into a $300 million forward-starting interest rate swap agreement with a notional amount of $300 million, maturing in June 2026, to hedge the change in the fair value of the 3.00 percent subordinated debt issued on May 28, 2021. Under the swap agreement, beginning in January 2022, Valley will receive fixed rate payments and pay variable rate amounts based on SOFR plus 2.187 percent.
Non-designated Hedges. Derivatives not designated as hedges may be used to manage Valley’s exposure to interest rate movements or to provide service to customers but do not meet the requirements for hedge accounting under U.S. GAAP. Derivatives not designated as hedges are not entered into for speculative purposes. Valley executes interest rate swaps with commercial lending customers to facilitate their respective risk management strategies. These interest rate swaps with customers are simultaneously offset by interest rate swaps that Valley executes with a third party, such that Valley minimizes its net risk exposure resulting from such transactions. As these interest rate swaps do not meet the strict hedge accounting requirements, changes in the fair value of both the customer swaps and the offsetting swaps are recognized directly in earnings.
Valley sometimes enters into risk participation agreements with external lenders where the banks are sharing their risk of default on the interest rate swaps on participated loans. Valley either pays or receives a fee depending on the participation type. Risk participation agreements are credit derivatives not designated as hedges. Credit derivatives are not speculative and are not used to manage interest rate risk in assets or liabilities. Changes in the fair value in credit derivatives are recognized directly in earnings. At December 31, 2021, Valley had 24 credit swaps with an aggregate notional amount of $232.8 million related to risk participation agreements.
At December 31, 2021, Valley had two "steepener" swaps with a total current notional amount of $10.4 million where the receive rate on the swap mirrors the pay rate on the brokered deposits. The rates paid on these types of hybrid instruments are based on a formula derived from the spread between the long and short ends of the constant maturity swap (CMS) rate curve. Although these types of instruments do not meet the hedge accounting requirements, the change in fair value of both the bifurcated derivative and the stand-alone swap tend to move in opposite directions with changes in three-month LIBOR rate and therefore provide an effective economic hedge.
Valley regularly enters into mortgage banking derivatives which are non-designated hedges. These derivatives include interest rate lock commitments provided to customers to fund certain residential mortgage loans to be sold into the secondary market and forward commitments for the future delivery of such loans. Valley enters into forward commitments for the future delivery of residential mortgage loans when interest rate lock commitments are entered into in order to economically hedge the effect of future changes in interest rates on Valley’s commitments to fund the loans as well as on its portfolio of mortgage loans held for sale.
Amounts included in the consolidated statements of financial condition related to the fair value of Valley’s derivative financial instruments were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| December 31, 2021 | | December 31, 2020 |
| Fair Value | | | | Fair Value | | |
| Other Assets | | Other Liabilities | | Notional Amount | | Other Assets | | Other Liabilities | | Notional Amount |
| (in thousands) |
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: | | | | | | | | | | | |
Cash flow hedge interest rate swaps | $ | — | | | $ | 310 | | | $ | 700,000 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 179 | | | $ | 1,100,000 | |
Fair value hedge interest rate swaps | — | | | 3,335 | | | 300,000 | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments | $ | — | | | $ | 3,645 | | | $ | 1,000,000 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 179 | | | $ | 1,100,000 | |
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: | | | | | | | | | | | |
Interest rate swaps and other contracts * | $ | 181,012 | | | $ | 47,277 | | | $ | 10,301,460 | | | $ | 387,008 | | | $ | 154,025 | | | $ | 8,889,557 | |
Mortgage banking derivatives | 488 | | | 1,454 | | | 312 | | | 444 | | | 2,077 | | | 321,486 | |
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments | $ | 181,500 | | | $ | 48,731 | | | $ | 10,301,772 | | | $ | 387,452 | | | $ | 156,102 | | | $ | 9,211,043 | |
* Other derivatives include risk participation agreements.
The Chicago Mercantile Exchange and London Clearing House variation margins are classified as a single-unit of account with the cash flow hedges and over-the-counter (OTC) non-designated derivative instruments. As a result, the fair value of the applicable derivative assets and liabilities are reported net of variation margin at December 31, 2021 and 2020 in the table above.
Gains (losses) included in the consolidated statements of income and in other comprehensive income (loss), on a pre-tax basis, related to interest rate derivatives designated as hedges of cash flows were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2021 | | 2020 | | 2019 |
| (in thousands) |
Amount of loss reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss to interest expense | $ | (3,436) | | | $ | (2,912) | | | $ | (1,808) | |
Amount of gain (loss) recognized in other comprehensive income | 138 | | | (3,169) | | | (1,380) | |
The net gains or losses related to cash flow hedge ineffectiveness were immaterial during the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019. The accumulated net after-tax losses related to effective cash flow hedges included in accumulated other comprehensive loss were $1.3 million and $3.9 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Amounts reported in accumulated other comprehensive loss related to cash flow interest rate derivatives are reclassified to interest expense as interest payments are made on the hedged variable interest rate liabilities. Valley estimates that $1.1 million will be reclassified as an increase to interest expense in 2022.
Gains (losses) included in the consolidated statements of income related to interest rate derivatives designated as hedges of fair value were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2021 | | 2020 | | 2019 |
| (in thousands) |
Derivative—interest rate swaps: | | | | | |
Interest income | $ | — | | | $ | 229 | | | $ | 133 | |
Interest expense | (3,335) | | | — | | | — | |
Hedged item—subordinated debt and loans: | | | | | |
Interest income | $ | — | | | $ | (229) | | | $ | (133) | |
Interest expense | 3,397 | | | — | | | — | |
The changes in the fair value of the hedged item designated as a qualifying hedge are captured as an adjustment to the carrying amount of the hedged item (basis adjustment). The following table presents the hedged items related to interest rate derivatives designated as fair value hedges and the cumulative basis fair value adjustment included in the net carrying amount of the hedged items at December 31, 2021:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Line Item in the Statement of Financial Position in Which the Hedged Item is Included | Carrying Amount of the Hedged Liability | | | | Cumulative Amount of Fair Value Hedging Adjustment Included in the Carrying Amount of the Hedged Liability | | |
| | | | | | | |
| (in thousands) | | |
Long-term borrowings | $ | 296,603 | | | | | $ | (3,397) | | | |
The net losses included in the consolidated statements of income related to derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2021 | | 2020 | | 2019 |
| (in thousands) |
Non-designated hedge interest rate and credit derivatives | | | | | |
Other non-interest expense | $ | 54 | | | $ | 1,067 | | | $ | 898 | |
Fee income related to derivative interest rate swaps executed with commercial loan customers totaled $26.9 million, $59.0 million and $33.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
Collateral Requirements and Credit Risk Related Contingency Features. By using derivatives, Valley is exposed to credit risk if counterparties to the derivative contracts do not perform as expected. Management attempts to minimize counterparty credit risk through credit approvals, limits, monitoring procedures and obtaining collateral where appropriate. Credit risk exposure associated with derivative contracts is managed at Valley in conjunction with Valley’s consolidated counterparty risk management process. Valley’s counterparties and the risk limits monitored by management are periodically reviewed and approved by the Board of Directors.
Valley has agreements with its derivative counterparties providing that if Valley defaults on any of its indebtedness, including default where repayment of the indebtedness has not been accelerated by the lender, then Valley could also be declared in default on its derivative counterparty agreements. Additionally, Valley has an agreement with several of its derivative counterparties that contains provisions that require Valley’s debt to maintain an investment grade credit rating from each of the major credit rating agencies from which it receives a credit rating. If Valley’s credit rating is reduced below investment grade, or such rating is withdrawn or suspended, then the counterparty could terminate the derivative positions and Valley would be required to settle its obligations under the agreements. As of December 31, 2021, Valley was in compliance with all of the provisions of its derivative counterparty agreements. As of December 31, 2021, the fair value of derivatives in a net liability position, which includes accrued interest but excludes any adjustment for nonperformance risk related to these agreements, was $44.2 million. Valley has derivative counterparty agreements that require minimum collateral posting thresholds for certain counterparties.
BALANCE SHEET OFFSETTING (Note 16)
Certain financial instruments, including certain OTC derivatives (mostly interest rate swaps) and repurchase agreements (accounted for as secured long-term borrowings), may be eligible for offset in the consolidated statements of financial condition and/or subject to master netting arrangements or similar agreements. OTC derivatives include interest rate swaps executed and settled bilaterally with counterparties without the use of an organized exchange or central clearing house (presented in the table below). The credit risk associated with bilateral OTC derivatives is managed through obtaining collateral and enforceable master netting agreements.
Valley is party to master netting arrangements with its financial institution counterparties; however, Valley does not offset assets and liabilities under these arrangements for financial statement presentation purposes. The master netting arrangements provide for a single net settlement of all swap agreements, as well as collateral, in the event of default on, or termination of, any one contract. Collateral, usually in the form of cash or marketable investment securities, is posted by the counterparty with net liability positions in accordance with contract thresholds. Master repurchase agreements which include “right of set-off” provisions generally have a legally enforceable right to offset recognized amounts. In such cases, the collateral would be used to settle the fair value of the swap or repurchase agreement should Valley be in default. Total amount of collateral held or pledged cannot exceed the net derivative fair values with the counterparty.
The table below presents information about Valley’s financial instruments that are eligible for offset in the consolidated statements of financial condition as of December 31, 2021 and 2020.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | Gross Amounts Not Offset | | |
| Gross Amounts Recognized | | Gross Amounts Offset | | Net Amounts Presented | | Financial Instruments | | Cash Collateral (1) | | Net Amount |
| (in thousands) |
December 31, 2021 | | | | | | | | | | | |
Assets: | | | | | | | | | | | |
Interest rate swaps | $ | 181,012 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 181,012 | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | 181,012 | |
Liabilities: | | | | | | | | | | | |
Interest rate swaps | $ | 50,922 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 50,922 | | | $ | — | | | $ | (44,231) | | | $ | 6,691 | |
Total liabilities | $ | 50,922 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 50,922 | | | $ | — | | | $ | (44,231) | | | $ | 6,691 | |
December 31, 2020 | | | | | | | | | | | |
Assets: | | | | | | | | | | | |
Interest rate swaps | $ | 387,008 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 387,008 | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | 387,008 | |
Liabilities: | | | | | | | | | | | |
Interest rate swaps | $ | 154,204 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 154,204 | | | $ | — | | | $ | (150,487) | | | $ | 3,717 | |
Repurchase agreements | 300,000 | | | — | | | 300,000 | | | (300,000) | | (2) | — | | | — | |
Total liabilities | $ | 454,204 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 454,204 | | | $ | (300,000) | | | $ | (150,487) | | | $ | 3,717 | |
(1) Cash collateral pledged to our counterparties in relation to market value exposures of OTC derivative contracts in a liability position.
(2) Represents the fair value of non-cash pledged investment securities.
REGULATORY AND CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS (Note 17)
Valley’s primary source of cash is dividends from the Bank. Valley National Bank, a national banking association, is subject to certain restrictions on the amount of dividends that it may declare without prior regulatory approval. In addition, the dividends declared cannot be in excess of the amount which would cause the subsidiary bank to fall below the minimum required for capital adequacy purposes.
Valley and Valley National Bank are subject to the regulatory capital requirements administered by the Federal Reserve Bank and the OCC. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory and possible additional discretionary actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct significant impact on Valley’s consolidated financial statements. Under capital adequacy guidelines Valley and Valley National Bank must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of Valley’s assets, liabilities and certain off-balance sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. Capital amounts and classification are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings and other factors.
Quantitative measures established by regulation to ensure capital adequacy require Valley and Valley National Bank to maintain minimum amounts and ratios of common equity Tier 1 capital, total and Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets, and Tier 1 capital to average assets, as defined in the regulations.
Valley is required to maintain a common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets ratio of 4.5 percent, Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets of 6.0 percent, ratio of total capital to risk-weighted assets of 8.0 percent, and minimum leverage ratio of 4.0 percent, plus a 2.5 percent capital conservation buffer added to the minimum requirements for capital adequacy purposes. As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, Valley and Valley National Bank exceeded all capital adequacy requirements (see table below).
For regulatory capital purposes, in accordance with the Federal Reserve Board’s final interim rule as of April 3, 2020, 100 percent of the CECL Day 1 impact to shareholders' equity equaling $28.2 million after-tax was deferred for a two-year period ending January 1, 2022, and will be phased in on a pro-rata basis over a three-year period ending January 1, 2025. Additionally, 25 percent, or $19.1 million on an after tax basis of the reserve build (i.e., provision for credit losses less net charge-offs) since CECL adoption through December 31, 2021 is being phased in over the same time frame.
The following table presents Valley’s and Valley National Bank’s actual capital positions and ratios under the Basel III risk-based capital guidelines at December 31, 2021 and 2020:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Actual | | Minimum Capital Requirements | | To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provision |
| | Amount | | Ratio | | Amount | | Ratio | | Amount | | Ratio |
| | ($ in thousands) |
As of December 31, 2021 | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total Risk-based Capital | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Valley | | $ | 4,454,485 | | | 13.10 | % | | $ | 3,569,144 | | | 10.50 | % | | N/A | | N/A |
Valley National Bank | | 4,571,448 | | | 13.45 | | | 3,567,618 | | | 10.50 | | | $ | 3,397,732 | | | 10.00 | % |
Common Equity Tier 1 Capital | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Valley | | 3,417,930 | | | 10.06 | | | 2,379,429 | | | 7.00 | | | N/A | | N/A |
Valley National Bank | | 4,308,734 | | | 12.68 | | | 2,378,412 | | | 7.00 | | | 2,208,526 | | | 6.50 | |
Tier 1 Risk-based Capital | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Valley | | 3,632,771 | | | 10.69 | | | 2,889,307 | | | 8.50 | | | N/A | | N/A |
Valley National Bank | | 4,308,734 | | | 12.68 | | | 2,888,072 | | | 8.50 | | | 2,718,185 | | | 8.00 | |
Tier 1 Leverage Capital | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Valley | | 3,632,771 | | | 8.88 | | | 1,635,508 | | | 4.00 | | | N/A | | N/A |
Valley National Bank | | 4,308,734 | | | 10.53 | | | 1,636,097 | | | 4.00 | | | 2,045,121 | | | 5.00 | |
| | |
As of December 31, 2020 | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total Risk-based Capital | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Valley | | $ | 3,802,223 | | | 12.64 | % | | $ | 3,159,019 | | | 10.50 | % | | N/A | | N/A |
Valley National Bank | | 3,839,922 | | | 12.76 | | | 3,158,842 | | | 10.50 | | | $ | 3,008,421 | | | 10.00 | % |
Common Equity Tier 1 Capital | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Valley | | 2,991,085 | | | 9.94 | | | 2,106,013 | | | 7.00 | | | N/A | | N/A |
Valley National Bank | | 3,607,625 | | | 11.99 | | | 2,105,894 | | | 7.00 | | | 1,955,473 | | | 6.50 | |
Tier 1 Risk-based Capital | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Valley | | 3,205,926 | | | 10.66 | | | 2,557,301 | | | 8.50 | | | N/A | | N/A |
Valley National Bank | | 3,607,625 | | | 11.99 | | | 2,557,158 | | | 8.50 | | | 2,406,736 | | | 8.00 | |
Tier 1 Leverage Capital | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Valley | | 3,205,926 | | | 8.06 | | | 1,591,852 | | | 4.00 | | | N/A | | N/A |
Valley National Bank | | 3,607,625 | | | 9.07 | | | 1,591,457 | | | 4.00 | | | 1,989,321 | | | 5.00 | |
COMMON AND PREFERRED STOCK (Note 18)
Repurchase Plan. In 2007, Valley’s Board of Directors approved the repurchase of up to 4.7 million of common shares. Purchases of Valley’s common shares may be made from time to time in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions generally not exceeding prevailing market prices. Repurchased shares are held in treasury and are expected to be used for general corporate purposes. During the fourth quarter 2021, Valley repurchased approximately 1.6 million of its common shares on the open market at an average price of $14.31 per share totaling $23.1 million. Valley made no share repurchases under the plan during the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.
Other Stock Repurchases. Valley purchases shares directly from its employees in connection with employee elections to withhold taxes related to the vesting of stock awards. During the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, Valley purchased approximately 510 thousand, 510 thousand and 175 thousand shares, respectively, of its outstanding common stock at an average price of $10.85, $10.61 and $10.45, respectively, for such purpose.
Preferred Stock
Series A Issuance. On June 19, 2015, Valley issued 4.6 million shares of its Fixed-to-Floating Rate Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series A, no par value per share, with a liquidation preference of $25 per share. Dividends on the preferred stock accrue and are payable quarterly in arrears, at a fixed rate per annum equal to 6.25 percent from the original
issue date to, but excluding, June 30, 2025, and thereafter at a floating rate per annum equal to three-month LIBOR plus a spread of 3.85 percent. The net proceeds from the preferred stock offering totaled $111.6 million. Commencing June 30, 2025, Valley may redeem the preferred shares at the liquidation preference plus accrued and unpaid dividends, subject to certain conditions.
Series B Issuance. On August 3, 2017, Valley issued 4.0 million shares of its Fixed-to-Floating Rate Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series B, no par value per share, with a liquidation preference of $25 per share. Dividends on the preferred stock will accrue and be payable quarterly in arrears, at a fixed rate per annum equal to 5.50 percent from the original issuance date to, but excluding, September 30, 2022, and thereafter at a floating rate per annum equal to three-month LIBOR plus a spread of 3.578 percent. The net proceeds from the preferred stock offering totaled $98.1 million. Commencing September 30, 2022, Valley may redeem the preferred shares at the liquidation preference plus accrued and unpaid dividends, subject to certain conditions.
Preferred stock is included in Valley's (additional) Tier 1 capital and total risk-based capital at December 31, 2021 and 2020.
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Note 19)
The following table presents the tax effects allocated to each component of other comprehensive income (loss) for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019. Components of other comprehensive income (loss) include changes in net unrealized gains and losses on debt securities available for sale; unrealized gains and losses on derivatives used in cash flow hedging relationships; and the pension benefit adjustment for the unfunded portion of various employee, officer and director pension plans.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2021 | | 2020 | | 2019 |
| Before Tax | | Tax Effect | | After Tax | | Before Tax | | Tax Effect | | After Tax | | Before Tax | | Tax Effect | | After Tax |
| (in thousands) |
Unrealized gains and losses on available for sale (AFS) debt securities | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net (losses) gains arising during the period | $ | (32,586) | | | $ | 8,973 | | | $ | (23,613) | | | $ | 38,477 | | | $ | (10,632) | | | $ | 27,845 | | | $ | 54,723 | | | $ | (15,461) | | | $ | 39,262 | |
Less reclassification adjustment for net (gains) losses included in net income (1) | (663) | | | 172 | | | (491) | | | (524) | | | 147 | | | (377) | | | 150 | | | (31) | | | 119 | |
Net change | (33,249) | | | 9,145 | | | (24,104) | | | 37,953 | | | (10,485) | | | 27,468 | | | 54,873 | | | (15,492) | | | 39,381 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Unrealized gains and losses on derivatives (cash flow hedges) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net gains (losses) arising during the period | 138 | | | (11) | | | 127 | | | (3,169) | | | 918 | | | (2,251) | | | (1,380) | | | 391 | | | (989) | |
Less reclassification adjustment for net losses (gains) included in net income (2) | 3,436 | | | (989) | | | 2,447 | | | 2,912 | | | (838) | | | 2,074 | | | 1,808 | | | (517) | | | 1,291 | |
Net change | 3,574 | | | (1,000) | | | 2,574 | | | (257) | | | 80 | | | (177) | | | 428 | | | (126) | | | 302 | |
Defined benefit pension plan | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net gains (losses) arising during the period | 14,381 | | | (4,075) | | | 10,306 | | | (5,719) | | | 2,301 | | | (3,418) | | | (2,385) | | | (176) | | | (2,561) | |
Amortization of prior service (cost) credit (3) | (135) | | | 39 | | | (96) | | | (136) | | | 38 | | | (98) | | | (135) | | | 42 | | | (93) | |
Amortization of net loss (3) | 1,538 | | | (432) | | | 1,106 | | | 1,003 | | | (282) | | | 721 | | | 264 | | | (76) | | | 188 | |
Net change | 15,784 | | | (4,468) | | | 11,316 | | | (4,852) | | | 2,057 | | | (2,795) | | | (2,256) | | | (210) | | | (2,466) | |
Total other comprehensive (loss) income | $ | (13,891) | | | $ | 3,677 | | | $ | (10,214) | | | $ | 32,844 | | | $ | (8,348) | | | $ | 24,496 | | | $ | 53,045 | | | $ | (15,828) | | | $ | 37,217 | |
(1) Included in gains (losses) on securities transactions, net.
(2) Included in interest expense.
(3) Included in the computation of net periodic pension cost. See Note 12 for details.
The following table presents the after-tax changes in the balances of each component of accumulated other comprehensive loss for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss | | Total Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss |
| Unrealized Gains and Losses on AFS Securities | | | | Unrealized Gains and Losses on Derivatives | | Defined Benefit Pension Plan | |
| (in thousands) |
Balance-December 31, 2018 | $ | (33,559) | | | | | $ | (4,031) | | | $ | (31,841) | | | $ | (69,431) | |
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications | 39,262 | | | | | (989) | | | (2,561) | | | 35,712 | |
Amounts reclassified from other comprehensive income (loss) | 119 | | | | | 1,291 | | | 95 | | | 1,505 | |
Other comprehensive income (loss), net | 39,381 | | | | | 302 | | | (2,466) | | | 37,217 | |
Balance-December 31, 2019 | 5,822 | | | | | (3,729) | | | (34,307) | | | (32,214) | |
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications | 27,845 | | | | | (2,251) | | | (3,418) | | | 22,176 | |
Amounts reclassified from other comprehensive (loss) income | (377) | | | | | 2,074 | | | 623 | | | 2,320 | |
Other comprehensive income (loss), net | 27,468 | | | | | (177) | | | (2,795) | | | 24,496 | |
Balance-December 31, 2020 | 33,290 | | | | | (3,906) | | | (37,102) | | | (7,718) | |
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications | (23,613) | | | | | 127 | | | 10,306 | | | (13,180) | |
Amounts reclassified from other comprehensive (loss) income | (491) | | | | | 2,447 | | | 1,010 | | | 2,966 | |
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net | (24,104) | | | | | 2,574 | | | 11,316 | | | (10,214) | |
Balance-December 31, 2021 | $ | 9,186 | | | | | $ | (1,332) | | | $ | (25,786) | | | $ | (17,932) | |
PARENT COMPANY INFORMATION (Note 20)
Condensed Statements of Financial Condition
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| December 31, |
| 2021 | | 2020 |
| (in thousands) |
Assets | | | |
Cash | $ | 77,760 | | | $ | 130,163 | |
Interest bearing deposits with banks | 250 | | | — | |
| | | |
Equity securities | 6,135 | | | 2,999 | |
Investments in and receivables due from subsidiaries | 5,764,957 | | | 4,998,795 | |
Other assets | 23,521 | | | 11,133 | |
Total Assets | $ | 5,872,623 | | | $ | 5,143,090 | |
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity | | | |
Dividends payable to shareholders | $ | 49,265 | | | $ | 46,591 | |
Long-term borrowings | 634,643 | | | 403,413 | |
Junior subordinated debentures issued to capital trusts | 56,413 | | | 56,065 | |
Accrued expenses and other liabilities | 48,236 | | | 44,901 | |
Shareholders’ equity | 5,084,066 | | | 4,592,120 | |
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity | $ | 5,872,623 | | | $ | 5,143,090 | |
Condensed Statements of Income
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Years Ended December 31, |
| 2021 | | 2020 | | 2019 |
| (in thousands) |
Income | | | | | |
Dividends from subsidiary | $ | 150,000 | | | $ | 186,000 | | | $ | 160,000 | |
Income from subsidiary | — | | | 4,436 | | | 4,550 | |
| | | | | |
Other interest and income | 1,498 | | | 21 | | | 51 | |
Total Income | 151,498 | | | 190,457 | | | 164,601 | |
Total Expenses | 28,524 | | | 23,484 | | | 27,998 | |
Income before income tax and equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiary | 122,974 | | | 166,973 | | | 136,603 | |
Income tax (benefit) expense | (9,501) | | | (3,946) | | | 24,524 | |
Income before equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiary | 132,475 | | | 170,919 | | | 112,079 | |
Equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiary | 341,365 | | | 219,687 | | | 197,714 | |
Net Income | 473,840 | | | 390,606 | | | 309,793 | |
Dividends on preferred stock | 12,688 | | | 12,688 | | | 12,688 | |
Net Income Available to Common Shareholders | $ | 461,152 | | | $ | 377,918 | | | $ | 297,105 | |
Condensed Statements of Cash Flows
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Years Ended December 31, |
| 2021 | | 2020 | | 2019 |
| (in thousands) |
Cash flows from operating activities: | | | | | |
Net Income | $ | 473,840 | | | $ | 390,606 | | | $ | 309,793 | |
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: | | | | | |
Equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries | (341,365) | | | (219,687) | | | (197,714) | |
| | | | | |
Stock-based compensation | 20,887 | | | 16,154 | | | 14,726 | |
Net amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts on borrowings | 1,152 | | | 230 | | | 124 | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
Net change in: | | | | | |
Other assets | 2,134 | | | 121 | | | 19,768 | |
Accrued expenses and other liabilities | (7,079) | | | 17,905 | | | 8,803 | |
Net cash provided by operating activities | 149,569 | | | 205,329 | | | 155,500 | |
Cash flows from investing activities: | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Purchases of equity securities | (1,644) | | | (2,500) | | | — | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
Cash and cash equivalents (paid) acquired in acquisitions, net | (3,983) | | | — | | | 11,947 | |
Repayment of subordinated debt by subsidiary | — | | | 100,000 | | | — | |
Capital contributions to subsidiary | (227,000) | | | (210,000) | | | — | |
Other, net | — | | | (1,200) | | | — | |
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities | (232,627) | | | (113,700) | | | 11,947 | |
Cash flows from financing activities: | | | | | |
Proceeds from issuance of long-term borrowings, net | 295,922 | | | 113,146 | | | — | |
Repayment of long-term borrowings | (60,000) | | | — | | | — | |
| | | | | |
Dividends paid to preferred shareholders | (12,688) | | | (12,688) | | | (12,688) | |
Dividends paid to common shareholders | (179,667) | | | (177,965) | | | (146,537) | |
Purchase of common shares to treasury | (23,907) | | | (5,374) | | | (1,805) | |
Common stock issued, net | 11,245 | | | 2,202 | | | 2,957 | |
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities | 30,905 | | | (80,679) | | | (158,073) | |
Net change in cash and cash equivalents | (52,153) | | | 10,950 | | | 9,374 | |
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year | 130,163 | | | 119,213 | | | 109,839 | |
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year | $ | 78,010 | | | $ | 130,163 | | | $ | 119,213 | |
BUSINESS SEGMENTS (Note 21)
Valley has four business segments that it monitors and reports on to manage Valley’s business operations. These segments are consumer lending, commercial lending, investment management, and corporate and other adjustments. Valley’s reportable segments have been determined based upon its internal structure of operations and lines of business. Each business segment is reviewed routinely for its asset growth, contribution to income before income taxes and return on average interest earning assets and impairment (if events or circumstances indicate a possible inability to realize the carrying amount). Expenses related to the branch network, all other components of retail banking, along with the back office departments of the Bank are allocated from the corporate and other adjustments segment to each of the other three business segments. Interest expense and internal transfer expense (for general corporate expenses) are allocated to each business segment utilizing a transfer pricing methodology, which involves the allocation of operating and funding costs based on each segment's respective mix of average earning assets and/or liabilities outstanding for the period. The financial reporting for each segment contains allocations and reporting in line with Valley’s operations, which may not necessarily be comparable to any other financial institution. The accounting for each segment includes internal accounting policies designed to measure consistent and reasonable financial reporting and may result in income and expense measurements that differ from amounts under U.S. GAAP. Furthermore,
changes in management structure or allocation methodologies and procedures may result in changes in reported segment financial data.
The consumer lending segment is mainly comprised of residential mortgages and automobile loans, and to a lesser extent, secured personal lines of credit, home equity loans and other consumer loans. The duration of the residential mortgage loan portfolio is subject to movements in the market level of interest rates and forecasted prepayment speeds. The average weighted life of the automobile loans within the portfolio is relatively unaffected by movements in the market level of interest rates. However, the average life may be impacted by new loans as a result of the availability of credit within the automobile marketplace and consumer demand for purchasing new or used automobiles. The consumer lending segment also includes the Wealth Management and Insurance Services Division, comprised of trust, asset management, and insurance services.
The commercial lending segment is comprised of floating rate and adjustable rate commercial and industrial loans and construction loans, as well as fixed rate owner occupied and commercial real estate loans. Due to the portfolio’s interest rate characteristics, commercial lending is Valley’s business segment that is most sensitive to movements in market interest rates.
The investment management segment generates a large portion of Valley’s income through investments in various types of securities and interest-bearing deposits with other banks. These investments are mainly comprised of fixed rate securities and depending on Valley's liquid cash position, federal funds sold and interest-bearing deposits with banks (primarily the Federal Reserve Bank of New York), as part of its asset/liability management strategies. The fixed rate investments are one of Valley’s least sensitive assets to changes in market interest rates. However, a portion of the investment portfolio is invested in shorter-duration securities to maintain the overall asset sensitivity of Valley’s balance sheet.
The amounts disclosed as “corporate and other adjustments” represent income and expense items not directly attributable to a specific segment, including net gains and losses on available for sale and held to maturity securities transactions not reported in the investment management segment above, interest expense related to subordinated notes, amortization and impairment of tax credit investments, as well as non-core items, including the loss on extinguishment of debt and merger expenses.
The following tables represent the financial data for Valley’s four business segments for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Year Ended December 31, 2021 |
| Consumer Lending | | Commercial Lending | | Investment Management | | Corporate and Other Adjustments | | Total |
| ($ in thousands) |
Average interest earning assets (unaudited) | $ | 7,262,808 | | | $ | 25,554,177 | | | $ | 5,410,830 | | | $ | — | | $ | 38,227,815 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
Interest income | $ | 238,715 | | | $ | 1,018,674 | | | $ | 80,051 | | | $ | (3,214) | | $ | 1,334,226 | |
Interest expense | 19,117 | | | 67,265 | | | 14,243 | | | 23,700 | | 124,325 | |
Net interest income (loss) | 219,598 | | | 951,409 | | | 65,808 | | | (26,914) | | 1,209,901 | |
(Credit) provision for credit losses | (6,807) | | | 39,703 | | | (263) | | | — | | 32,633 | |
Net interest income (loss) after provision for credit losses | 226,405 | | | 911,706 | | | 66,071 | | | (26,914) | | 1,177,268 | |
Non-interest income | 72,063 | | | 35,600 | | | 10,575 | | | 36,775 | | 155,013 | |
Non-interest expense | 78,853 | | | 108,577 | | | 3,632 | | | 500,480 | | 691,542 | |
Internal transfer expense (income) | 81,423 | | | 286,335 | | | 60,573 | | | (428,331) | | — | |
Income (loss) before income taxes | $ | 138,192 | | | $ | 552,394 | | | $ | 12,441 | | | $ | (62,288) | | $ | 640,739 | |
Return on average interest earning assets (pre-tax) (unaudited) | 1.90 | % | | 2.16 | % | | 0.23 | % | | N/A | | 1.68 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Year Ended December 31, 2020 |
| Consumer Lending | | Commercial Lending | | Investment Management | | Corporate and Other Adjustments | | Total |
| ($ in thousands) |
Average interest earning assets (unaudited) | $ | 7,160,793 | | | $ | 24,625,066 | | | $ | 5,225,074 | | | $ | — | | $ | 37,010,933 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
Interest income | $ | 257,196 | | | $ | 1,027,796 | | | $ | 102,883 | | | $ | (4,156) | | $ | 1,383,719 | |
Interest expense | 47,712 | | | 164,075 | | | 34,814 | | | 18,214 | | 264,815 | |
Net interest income (loss) | 209,484 | | | 863,721 | | | 68,069 | | | (22,370) | | 1,118,904 | |
Provision for credit losses | 11,502 | | | 113,585 | | | 635 | | | — | | 125,722 | |
Net interest income (loss) after provision for credit losses | 197,982 | | | 750,136 | | | 67,434 | | | (22,370) | | 993,182 | |
Non-interest income | 81,499 | | | 64,783 | | | 10,083 | | | 26,667 | | 183,032 | |
Non-interest expense | 77,582 | | | 98,710 | | | 1,136 | | | 468,720 | | 646,148 | |
Internal transfer expense (income) | 77,835 | | | 267,588 | | | 56,788 | | | (402,211) | | — | |
Income (loss) before income taxes | $ | 124,064 | | | $ | 448,621 | | | $ | 19,593 | | | $ | (62,212) | | $ | 530,066 | |
Return on average interest earning assets (pre-tax) (unaudited) | 1.73 | % | | 1.82 | % | | 0.37 | % | | N/A | | 1.43 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Year Ended December 31, 2019 |
| Consumer Lending | | Commercial Lending | | Investment Management | | Corporate and Other Adjustments | | Total |
| ($ in thousands) |
Average interest earning assets (unaudited) | $ | 6,891,462 | | | $ | 19,343,791 | | | $ | 4,340,277 | | | $ | — | | $ | 30,575,530 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
Interest income | $ | 272,773 | | | $ | 926,328 | | | $ | 126,723 | | | $ | (4,824) | | $ | 1,321,000 | |
Interest expense | 91,798 | | | 257,670 | | | 57,815 | | | 15,669 | | 422,952 | |
Net interest income (loss) | 180,975 | | | 668,658 | | | 68,908 | | | (20,493) | | 898,048 | |
Provision for credit losses | 6,688 | | | 17,530 | | | — | | | — | | 24,218 | |
Net interest income (loss) after provision for credit losses | 174,287 | | | 651,128 | | | 68,908 | | | (20,493) | | 873,830 | |
Non-interest income | 57,981 | | | 41,157 | | | 8,818 | | | 106,564 | | 214,520 | |
Non-interest expense | 76,046 | | | 101,924 | | | 1,034 | | | 452,551 | | 631,555 | |
Internal transfer expense (income) | 78,743 | | | 221,113 | | | 49,670 | | | (349,526) | | — | |
Income (loss) before income taxes | $ | 77,479 | | | $ | 369,248 | | | $ | 27,022 | | | $ | (16,954) | | $ | 456,795 | |
Return on average interest earning assets (pre-tax) (unaudited) | 1.12 | % | | 1.91 | % | | 0.62 | % | | N/A | | 1.49 | % |