UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C.  20549

FORM 10-K
(Mark One)
 
[ X ]   Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014.
 
or
 
[     ]   Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 for the transition period from ___ to ___.

Commission File Number:   000-17007

REPUBLIC FIRST BANCORP, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Pennsylvania
 
23-2486815
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
     
50 South 16 th Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
 
19102
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code 215-735-4422

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class
 
Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share
 
The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC
 
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:  None
 
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. YES  [  ]   NO    [X]
 
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.   YES [  ]  NO [X]
 
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant:  (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports) and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. YES  [X]   NO  [  ]
 
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months.    YES  [X]     NO  [  ]
 
 
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  [ X ]
 
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.  See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one)
Large accelerated filer    [   ]
Accelerated filer      [X ]
Non-Accelerated filer   [   ]
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Smaller reporting company    [   ]
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).   YES  [  ]    NO   [X]

The aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates was $162,054,381 based on the last sale price on Nasdaq Global Market on June 30, 2014.

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

Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share
37,815,503
Title of Class
Number of Shares Outstanding as of March 12, 2015

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Portions of the registrant’s Definitive Proxy Statement for its 2015 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, which Definitive Proxy Statement will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission not later than 120 days after the registrant’s fiscal year ended December 31, 2014, are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Form 10-K; provided, however, that the Compensation Committee Report, the Audit Committee Report and any other information in such proxy statement that is not required to be included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, shall not be deemed to be incorporated herein by reference or filed as a part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
REPUBLIC FIRST BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
 
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
     
 
PAGE
PART I:
   
Item 1.
Business
     
Item 1A.
Risk Factors
     
Item 1B.
Unresolved Staff Comments
     
Item 2.
Properties
     
Item 3.
Legal Proceedings
     
Item 4.
Mine Safety Disclosures
     
PART II:
   
Item 5.
Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
     
Item 6.
Selected Financial Data
     
Item 7.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
     
Item 7A.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
     
Item 8.
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
     
Item 9.
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
     
Item 9A.
Controls and Procedures
     
Item 9B.
Other Information
 
     
PART III:
   
Item 10.
Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
     
Item 11.
Executive Compensation
     
Item 12.
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
     
Item 13.
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Directors Independence
     
Item 14.
Principal Accounting Fees and Services
     
PART IV:
   
Item 15.
Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules
     
Signatures
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
PART I

Item 1:  Business

Throughout this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the registrant, Republic First Bancorp, Inc., is referred to as the “Company” or as “we,” “our” or “us”.   The Company’s website address is www.myrepublicbank.com. The Company’s Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K and other documents filed by the Company with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) are available free of charge on the Company’s website under the Investor Relations menu. Such documents are available on the Company’s website as soon as reasonably practicable after they have been filed electronically with the SEC.
 
Forward Looking Statements
 
This document contains “forward-looking statements,” as that term is defined in the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  These statements can be identified by reference to a future period or periods or by the use of words such as “would be,” “could be,” “should be,” “probability,” “risk,” “target,” “objective,” “may,” “will,” “estimate,” “project,” “believe,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “seek,” “expect” and similar expressions or variations on such expressions.  These forward-looking statements include, among others:  statements of goals, intentions and expectations, statements regarding the impact of accounting pronouncements, statements regarding prospects and business strategy, statements regarding allowance for loan losses, asset quality and market risk and estimates of future costs, benefits and results.
 
Forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements.  For example, and in addition to the “Risk Factors” discussed elsewhere in this Form 10-K, risks and uncertainties can arise with changes in or related to:

 
·
general economic conditions, including turmoil in the financial markets and related efforts of government agencies to stabilize the financial system;

 
·
the adequacy of our allowance for loan losses and our methodology for determining such allowance;

 
·
adverse changes in our loan portfolio and credit risk-related losses and expenses;

 
·
concentrations within our loan portfolio, including our exposure to commercial real estate loans, and to our primary service area;

 
·
changes in interest rates;

 
·
business conditions in the financial services industry, including competitive pressure among financial services companies, new service and product offerings by competitors, price pressures and similar items;

 
·
deposit flows;

 
·
loan demand;

 
·
the regulatory environment, including evolving banking industry standards, changes in legislation or regulation;
 
 
 
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·
the impact of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act;

 
·
our securities portfolio and the valuation of our securities;

 
·
accounting principles, policies and guidelines as well as estimates and assumptions used in the preparation of our financial statements;

 
·
rapidly changing technology;

 
·
litigation liabilities, including costs, expenses, settlements and judgments; and

 
·
other economic, competitive, governmental, regulatory and technological factors affecting our operations, pricing, products and services.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which reflect management’s beliefs only as of the date hereof.  Except as required by applicable law or regulation, we do not undertake, and specifically disclaim any obligation, to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect any changed assumptions, any unanticipated events or any changes in the future.  Significant factors which could have an adverse effect on the operations and future prospects of the Company are detailed in the “Risk Factors” section included under Item 1A of Part I of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.  Readers should carefully review the risk factors included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and in other documents the Company files from time to time with the SEC.

General

Republic First Bancorp, Inc. was organized and incorporated under the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in 1987 and is the holding company for Republic First Bank, which does business under the name Republic Bank, and we may refer to as Republic or the Bank.  Republic offers a variety of credit and depository banking services. Such services are offered to individuals and businesses primarily in the Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey area through their offices and branches in Philadelphia, Montgomery, and Delaware Counties in Pennsylvania and Camden County, New Jersey.
  
Historically, our primary objective had been to position ourselves as an alternative to the large banks for commercial banking services in the Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey area.  In the second quarter of 2008, we began to redirect our strategic efforts toward retail banking and the creation of a major regional retail and commercial bank with a distinct brand, by focusing on innovation, customer satisfaction, brand building and shareholder value creation.  To achieve this transformation, the Bank hired a number of former senior Commerce Bank employees: Andrew Logue, President and Chief Operating Officer; Rhonda Costello, Chief Retail Officer; Jay Neilon, Chief Credit Officer; and Frank Cavallaro, Chief Financial Officer.
 
Additionally, the Bank hired two experienced and former Commerce Bank regional market managers, Stephen McWilliams and Robert Worley.  They lead the Bank’s lending efforts in the greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey area and in turn have hired a number of experienced lenders with the same focus. With this management team and additional new employees for support, we have built the foundation and made a commitment to become a leading financial institution in the Philadelphia metropolitan area.
 
 
 
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We believe we have a strong management team, as well as adequate capital resources and liquidity to deal with current economic conditions and growth plans for the future.   In connection with the change in strategy to become a retail-focused and customer service based organization, in August 2010 we rebranded our stores to operate under the name “Republic Bank.” This is the name in which the Bank was originally incorporated under and utilized from 1988 until 1996.
 
During 2009 and 2010, we renovated, refurbished and remodeled most of our existing stores, making significant capital improvements, as part of our ongoing effort to adopt a more retail customer focus and attract additional retail business.  We have expanded customer services hours, enhanced our banking systems to better serve the retail customer and expanded our retail product offerings.  In 2014, we expanded our store network in Southern New Jersey by opening two new offices located in Cherry Hill and Glassboro, NJ, relocating our Voorhees store to a significantly improved and renovated location, while enlarging and remodeling our store located at 16 th and Market Street in Center City Philadelphia.  In 2015, we expect to open additional locations primarily in Southern New Jersey and continue the expansion of our store network.
 
On the lending side, we historically focused our efforts on business banking and commercial lending transactions, in particular commercial real estate loans.  We have restructured our loan portfolio and deemphasized the origination of commercial real estate loans.  To further these efforts, we undertook detailed reviews of our more significant credit relationships with an emphasis on reducing exposure, enhanced our allowance for loan loss methodology, and committed to originate fewer commercial real estate loans in order to reduce credit concentrations in that loan category.

 In December 2011, we completed the sale of several distressed commercial real estate loans and foreclosed properties to a single investor.  This transaction dramatically reduced our non-performing asset balances and significantly improved our credit quality metrics.  We believe the loan sale represented a major step in completing the transformation of the Bank, which began in 2008.

 In 2014, we began to execute on an aggressive growth and expansion plan.  In March 2014, we opened a new store in Cherry Hill, NJ utilizing our revolutionary building highlighted by its distinctive glass design. We believe this building represents our commitment to world-class service and convenience for our customers. We also relocated our existing stores in Media, PA and Voorhees, NJ to new and improved sites and we renovated and expanded our flagship store located at 16 th and Market Street in the heart of Center City Philadelphia. We finished out the year by opening another store in Glassboro, NJ.

To support the planned growth strategy, we completed the sale of $45 million of common stock through a private placement offering in April 2014. The stock was sold at a price of $3.80 per share. This offering provides us with the capital necessary to continue with our aggressive expansion plans in 2015 and beyond.

 As of December 31, 2014, we had total assets of approximately $1.2 billion, total shareholders’ equity of approximately $112.8 million, total deposits of approximately $1.1 billion, net loans receivable of approximately $770.4 million, and net income of $2.4 million. The Company has one reportable segment: community banking.  The community banking segment primarily encompasses the commercial loan and deposit activities of Republic, as well as consumer loan products in the areas surrounding our stores.

We provide banking services through the Bank, and do not presently engage in any activities other than banking activities.
 

 
 
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Republic Bank
 
  Republic is a commercial bank chartered pursuant to the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and is subject to examination and comprehensive regulation by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and the Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities.  The deposits held by the Bank are insured, up to applicable limits, by the Deposit Insurance Fund of the FDIC.

Service Area/Market Overview
 
Our primary service area consists of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey.  We presently conduct our principal banking activities through fifteen branch locations which are commonly referred to as “stores” throughout this document which reflects our retail oriented approach to customer service and convenience.  Eleven of these stores are located in Philadelphia and the surrounding suburbs of Plymouth Meeting, Bala Cynwyd, Ardmore, Abington, and Media in Pennsylvania.  There are also four stores located in Haddonfield, Cherry Hill, Voorhees, and Glassboro in the southern New Jersey market. Our commercial lending activities extend beyond our primary service area, to include other counties in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, as well as parts of Delaware, Maryland, New York and other out-of-market opportunities.

Competition

We face substantial competition from other financial institutions in our service area.  Competitors include Wells Fargo, Citizens, PNC, Santander, TD Bank and Bank of America, as well as many local community banks.  In addition, we compete directly with savings banks, savings and loan associations, finance companies, credit unions, factors, mortgage brokers, insurance companies, securities brokerage firms, mutual funds, money market funds, private lenders and other institutions for deposits, commercial loans, mortgages and consumer loans, as well as other services.  Competition among financial institutions is based upon a number of factors, including the quality of services rendered, interest rates offered on deposit accounts, interest rates charged on loans and other credit services, service charges, the convenience of banking facilities, locations and hours of operation and, in the case of loans to larger commercial borrowers, applicable lending limits.  Many of the financial institutions with which we compete have greater financial resources than we do, and offer a wider range of deposit and lending products.
 
Our legal lending limit to one borrower was approximately $19.9 million at December 31, 2014.  Loans above this amount may be made if the excess over the lending limit is participated to other institutions.  We are subject to potential intensified competition from new branches of established banks in the area as well as new banks that could open in our market area.  There are banks and other financial institutions, which serve surrounding areas, and additional out-of-state financial institutions, which currently, or in the future, may compete in our market. We compete to attract deposits and loan applications both from customers of existing institutions and from customers new to the greater Philadelphia area and we anticipate a continued increase in competition in our market area.
 
We continue to believe that an attractive niche exists serving small to medium sized business customers not adequately served by our larger competitors, and we will continue to seek opportunities to build commercial relationships to complement our retail strategy.  We believe small to medium-sized businesses will respond very positively to the attentive and highly personalized service we provide.

Products and Services
 
We offer a range of competitively priced banking products and services, including consumer and commercial deposit accounts, checking accounts, interest-bearing demand accounts, money market accounts, certificates of deposit, savings accounts, sweep accounts, lockbox services and individual retirement accounts (and other traditional banking services), secured and unsecured commercial loans, real estate loans, construction and land development loans, automobile loans, home improvement loans, mortgages, home equity and overdraft lines of credit, and other products.  We attempt to offer a high level of personalized service to both our retail and commercial customers.
 
 
 
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In February 2011, we announced the launch of a Small Business Administration (“SBA”) lending group to provide much needed credit to small businesses throughout our service areas.  We hired two experienced lenders to lead our new SBA lending unit.  Arnold V. Horvath, Executive Vice-President, and Pamela Innis, Senior Vice-President, who are both former executives with Commerce Bank and more recently Metro Bank.

We are members of the STAR™ and PLUS™ automated teller (ATM) networks, and Allpoint - America's Largest Surcharge Free ATM Network which enable us to provide our customers with free access to more than 55,000 ATMs worldwide. We currently have fifteen proprietary ATMs located in our store network.

Our lending activities generally are focused on small and medium sized businesses within the communities that we serve. Commercial real estate loans represent the largest category within our loan portfolio, amounting to approximately 49% of total loans outstanding at December 31, 2014.  Repayment of these loans is, in part, dependent on general economic conditions affecting our customers and various businesses within the community.  As a commercial lender, we are subject to credit risk. Economic and financial conditions in recent years have adversely affected many of our borrowers.  To manage the challenges of this economic environment we have adopted a more conservative loan classification system, enhanced our allowance for loan loss methodology, and undertaken a comprehensive review of our loan portfolio.  

Although management continues to follow established underwriting policies and closely monitor loans through Republic’s loan review officer, credit risk is still inherent in the portfolio.  The majority of Republic’s loan portfolio is collateralized with real estate or other collateral; however, a portion of the commercial portfolio is unsecured, representing loans made to borrowers considered to be of sufficient financial strength to merit unsecured financing.  Republic makes both fixed and variable rate loans with terms typically ranging from one to five years. Variable rate loans are generally tied to the national prime rate of interest.
  
We have been affected by the challenging conditions in the economy and financial markets.  Beginning in mid-2008, like many other commercial lenders, we experienced elevated levels of charge-offs and loan loss provisions and increased amounts of non-performing loans and other real estate owned. During 2009, we instituted a vigilant credit administration process where we select and review a significant portion of our loan portfolio on a regular basis. The sale of several distressed commercial real estate loans and other real estate owned in December 2011 substantially improved asset quality for the Bank and immediately strengthened our balance sheet.  In 2012, 2013, and 2014, the loan loss provision and other credit quality cost returned to more normalized levels. We also believe that economic indicators in the markets that we serve continue to show steady signs of improvement which will enable us to continue progress toward consistent and sustainable growth and profitability.

Branch Expansion Plans and Growth Strategy
 
We will carefully evaluate growth opportunities throughout 2015 and beyond.  Renovation and refurbishment of all existing store locations took place during 2009.  We opened two new stores located in Cherry Hill, NJ and Glassboro, NJ utilizing our new and distinctive prototype building in 2014. We also relocated our Voorhees, NJ store to a new and improved location in 2014. We expanded and renovated our store located at 16 th and Market Street in Center City Philadelphia. The Bank anticipates the continuation of its expansion strategy through the opening of additional new stores in 2015. Relocation of other existing store locations may also occur in the future as we continue to direct our focus toward the retail customer experience. The opening and relocation of these stores is subject to regulatory approval.
 
 
 
 
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Securities Portfolio

We maintain an investment securities portfolio.  We purchase investment securities that are in compliance with our investment policies, which are approved annually by our Board of Directors.  The investment policies address such issues as permissible investment categories, credit quality, maturities and concentrations.  At December 31, 2014 and 2013, approximately 71% and 68%, respectively, of the aggregate dollar amount of the investment securities consisted of either U.S. government debt securities or U.S. government agency issued mortgage-backed securities.  Credit risk associated with these U.S. government debt securities and the U.S. government agency securities is minimal, with risk-based capital weighting factors of 0% and 20%, respectively.  The remainder of the securities portfolio consists of municipal securities, pooled trust preferred securities, corporate bonds, asset-backed securities, and Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) capital stock.

Supervision and Regulation
 
General

Republic, as a Pennsylvania state chartered bank, is not a member of the Federal Reserve System (“Federal Reserve”) and is subject to supervision and regulation by the FDIC and the Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities. Our bank holding company is subject to supervision and regulation by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve under the Federal Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended (“BHC Act”).  As a bank holding company, our activities and those of Republic are limited to the business of banking and activities closely related or incidental to banking, and we may not directly or indirectly acquire the ownership or control of more than 5% of any class of voting shares or substantially all of the assets of any company, including a bank, without the prior approval of the Federal Reserve.
 
We are subject to extensive requirements and restrictions under federal and state law, including requirements to maintain reserves against deposits, restrictions on the types and amounts of loans that may be granted and the interest that may be charged thereon, and limitations on the types of investments that may be made and the types of services that may be offered. Various federal and state consumer laws and regulations also affect the operations of Republic. In addition to the impact of regulation, commercial banks are affected significantly by the actions of the Federal Reserve attempting to control the money supply and credit availability in order to influence market interest rates and the national economy.   

The following discussion summarizes certain banking laws and regulations that affect us and Republic.

Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010

On July 21, 2010, President Obama signed into law the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 (the “Dodd-Frank Act”).  The Dodd-Frank Act has and will continue to have a broad impact on the financial services industry, including significant regulatory and compliance changes including, among other things, (i) enhanced resolution authority of troubled and failing banks and their holding companies; (ii) increased capital and liquidity requirements; (iii) increased regulatory examination fees; (iv) changes to assessments to be paid to the FDIC for federal deposit insurance; and (v) numerous other provisions designed to improve supervision and oversight of, and strengthening safety and soundness for, the financial services sector.  Additionally, the Dodd-Frank Act established a new framework for systemic risk oversight within the financial system to be distributed among new and existing federal regulatory agencies, including the Financial Stability Oversight Council, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, the Federal Reserve, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, and the FDIC.  A summary of certain provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act is set forth below.
 
 
 
 
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•       Source of Strength.   According to Federal Reserve policy, bank holding companies are expected to act as a source of financial strength to each subsidiary bank and to commit resources to support each such subsidiary.  The Dodd-Frank Act codifies the source-of-strength doctrine and expands upon the Federal Reserve policy, defining “source of strength” to mean the “ability of a company that directly or indirectly controls an insured depository institution to provide financial assistance to such insured depository institution in the event of the financial distress of the insured depository institution.”
 
•       Increased Capital Standards and Enhanced Supervision .  The federal banking agencies are required to establish minimum leverage and risk-based capital requirements for banks and bank holding companies.  These new standards are summarized under “Capital Adequacy” below. The Dodd-Frank Act also requires capital requirements to be countercyclical such that the required amount of capital increases in times of economic expansion and decreases in times of economic contraction consistent with safety and soundness.
 
•       The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (“Bureau”) .  The Dodd-Frank Act created the Bureau within the Federal Reserve.  The Bureau is tasked with establishing and implementing rules and regulations under certain federal consumer protection laws with respect to the conduct of providers of certain consumer financial products and services.  The Bureau has broad rulemaking, supervisory and enforcement powers for a wide range of consumer protection laws applicable to banks with greater than $10 billion or more in assets.  Smaller institutions will be subject to rules promulgated by the Bureau but will continue to be examined and supervised by federal banking regulators for consumer compliance purposes. In addition, the Dodd-Frank Act permits states to adopt consumer protection laws and regulations that are more stringent than those regulations promulgated by the Bureau and state attorneys general are permitted to enforce consumer protection rules adopted by the Bureau against state-chartered institutions.
 
•       Corporate Governance .  The Dodd-Frank Act requires publicly traded companies to provide their shareholders with 1) a non-binding shareholder vote on executive compensation; 2) a non-binding shareholder vote on the frequency of such vote; 3) disclosure of “golden parachute” arrangements in connection with specified change in control transactions; and 4) a non-binding shareholder vote on golden parachute arrangements in connection with these change in control transactions.

•       Debit Card Interchange Fees.   The Dodd-Frank Act requires that the amount of any interchange fee charged by a debit card issuer with respect to a debit card transaction be reasonable and proportional to the cost incurred by the issuer.  While the restrictions on interchange fees do not apply to banks that, together with their affiliates, have assets of less than $10 billion, the rule could affect the competitiveness of debit cards issued by smaller banks.

•       Interstate Banking and Branching .  The Riegle-Neal Interstate Banking and Branching Efficiency Act of 1994 (the “Interstate Banking Law”) amended various federal banking laws then in effect to provide for nationwide interstate banking, interstate bank mergers and interstate branching. The interstate banking provisions allowed for the acquisition by a bank holding company of a bank located in another state by merger or acquisition, although individual states had the ability to “opt out” of such provision.  The Dodd-Frank Act relaxes national branching requirements, allowing national and state banks to establish branches in any state if that state would permit the establishment of the branch by a state bank chartered de novo in that state.
 
 
 
 
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•       Deposit Insurance.    The Dodd-Frank Act permanently increased the maximum deposit insurance amount to $250,000 for insured deposits.  Amendments to the Federal Deposit Insurance Act, which were mandated by the Dodd-Frank Act, have revised the assessment base against which an insured depository institution’s deposit insurance premiums paid to the Deposit Insurance Fund (“DIF”) are calculated.  Under the amendments, the assessment base is no longer the institution’s deposit base, but rather its average consolidated total assets less its average tangible equity during the assessment period.  Additionally, the Dodd-Frank Act made changes to the minimum designated reserve ratio of the DIF, by increasing the minimum from 1.15 percent to 1.35 percent of the estimated amount of total insured deposits by 2020 and eliminating the requirement that the FDIC pay dividends to depository institutions when the reserve ratio exceeds certain thresholds.  The Dodd- Frank Act also provided that, effective July 21, 2011, depository institutions may pay interest on demand deposits.  For further discussion of deposit insurance regulatory matters, see “Deposit Insurance and Assessments” below.
 
•       Transactions with Affiliates .  Under federal law, we are subject to restrictions that limit certain types of transactions between Republic and its non-bank affiliates.  In general, we are subject to quantitative and qualitative limits on extensions of credit, purchases of assets and certain other transactions involving us and our non-bank affiliates.  Transactions between Republic and its non-bank affiliates are required to be on arms length terms.  The Dodd-Frank Act enhanced the requirements for certain transactions with affiliates under Section 23A and 23B of the Federal Reserve Act, including expanding the definition of “covered transactions” and “affiliates,” as well as increasing the amount of time for which collateral requirements regarding covered transactions must be maintained.
 
•       Transactions with Insiders .  Under the Dodd-Frank Act, insider transaction limitations are expanded through the strengthening of loan restrictions to insiders and the expansion of the types of transactions subject to the various limits, including derivative transactions, repurchase agreements, reverse repurchase agreements and securities lending or borrowing transactions.  Restrictions have also been placed on certain asset sales to and from an insider to an institution, including requirements that such sales be on market terms and, if representing more than 10% of capital, approved by the institution’s board of directors.
 
•       Compensation Practices .  The Dodd-Frank Act provides that the appropriate federal regulators must establish standards prohibiting as an unsafe and unsound practice any compensation plan of a bank holding company or other “covered financial institution” that provides an insider or other employee with “excessive compensation” or could lead to a material financial loss to such firm. In April 2011, the Federal Reserve, the OCC, the FDIC, the SEC, the National Credit Union Administration, and the Federal Housing Agency issued a proposed rule under the Dodd-Frank Act that would require the reporting of incentive-based compensation arrangements by a covered financial institution, and prohibit incentive-based compensation arrangements at a covered financial institution that provide excessive compensation or that could expose the institution to inappropriate risks that could lead to material financial loss.   Together, the Dodd-Frank Act and the guidance on compensation may impact the current compensation policies at the Company. The Company expects that these agencies will issue a new incentive-based compensation rule under the Dodd-Frank Act in 2015.
 
•       Holding Company Capital Levels .  The Dodd-Frank Act requires bank regulators to establish minimum capital levels for holding companies that are at least as stringent as those applicable to depository institutions.  All trust preferred securities, or TRUPs, issued prior to May 19, 2010 by bank holding companies with less than $15 billion in assets are permanently grandfathered in Tier 1 capital, subject to a limitation of 25% of Tier 1 capital.
 
 
 
 
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Many of the requirements of the Dodd-Frank Act will be implemented over time, and most are subject to implementing regulations that have or will become effective over the course of several years.  Given the complexity associated with the manner in which the provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act will be implemented by the various regulatory agencies through regulations, the full extent of the impact such requirements will have on financial institutions’ operations is unclear.  The changes resulting from the Dodd-Frank Act may impact the profitability of our business activities, require changes to certain of our business practices, impose upon us more stringent capital, liquidity and leverage ratio requirements or otherwise adversely affect our business. These changes may also require us to invest significant management attention and resources to evaluate and make necessary changes in order to comply with new statutory and regulatory requirements.

Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act
 
The federal Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (the “GLB Act”), enacted in 1999:  repealed the key provisions of the Glass Steagall Act so as to permit commercial banks to affiliate with investment banks (securities firms); amended the BHC Act to permit qualifying bank holding companies to engage in many types of financial activities that were not permitted for banks themselves; and permitted subsidiaries of banks to engage in a broad range of financial activities that were not permitted for banks themselves.
 
The result was to permit banking companies to offer a wider range of financial products and services to combine with other types of financial companies, such as securities and insurance companies. The impact of the GLB Act has, however, now been substantially limited by the Dodd-Frank Act and regulations issued by the Federal Reserve thereunder, specifically the so-called “Volcker Rule,” which will limit the ability of banks and their affiliates to invest in, or to engage in, non-banking activities for their own account.
 
 The GLB Act created a new type of bank holding company called a “financial holding company” (“FHC”).  An FHC is authorized to engage in any activity that is “financial in nature or incidental to financial activities” and any activity that the Federal Reserve determines is “complementary to financial activities” and does not pose undue risks to the financial system.  Among other things, “financial in nature” activities include securities underwriting and dealing, insurance underwriting and sales, and certain merchant banking activities.  A bank holding company qualifies to become an FHC if each of its depository institution subsidiaries is “well capitalized,” “well managed,” and has a rating under the Community Reinvestment Act (“CRA”) of “satisfactory” or better.  A qualifying bank holding company becomes an FHC by filing with the Federal Reserve an election to become an FHC.  We have not elected to become an FHC.  Bank holding companies that do not qualify or elect to become FHCs will be limited in their activities to those previously permitted by law and regulation.
 
 In addition, the GLB Act provided significant new protections for the privacy of customer information.  These provisions apply to any company the business of which is engaging in activities permitted for an FHC, even if it is not itself an FHC.  The GLB Act subjected a financial institution to four new requirements regarding non-public information about a customer.  The financial institution must: adopt and disclose a privacy policy; give customers the right to “opt out” of disclosures to non-affiliated parties; not disclose any information to third party marketers; and follow regulatory standards to protect the security and confidentiality of customer information.
 
 

 
 
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Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (“Sarbanes-Oxley”) comprehensively revised the laws affecting corporate governance, auditing and accounting, executive compensation and corporate reporting for entities, such as us, with equity or debt securities registered under the Exchange Act. Among other things, Sarbanes-Oxley and its implementing regulations have established new membership requirements and additional responsibilities for our audit committee, imposed restrictions on the relationship between us and our outside auditors (including restrictions on the types of non-audit services our auditors may provide to us), imposed additional responsibilities for our external financial statements on our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, and expanded the disclosure requirements for our corporate insiders. The requirements are intended to allow shareholders to more easily and efficiently monitor the performance of companies and directors.

Regulatory Restrictions on Dividends
  
Dividend payments by Republic to the holding company are subject to the Pennsylvania Banking Code of 1965 (“Banking Code”) and the Federal Deposit Insurance Act (“FDIA”). Under the Banking Code, no dividends may be paid except from “accumulated net earnings” (generally, undivided profits). Under the FDIA, an insured bank may pay no dividends if the bank is in arrears in the payment of any insurance assessment due to the FDIC. Under the Banking Code, Republic would be limited to $14.3 million of dividends payable plus an additional amount equal to its net profit for 2015, up to the date of any such dividend declaration. However, dividends would be further limited in order to maintain capital ratios as discussed in “Capital Adequacy”.
 
Federal regulatory authorities have adopted standards for the maintenance of adequate levels of regulatory capital by banks. Adherence to such standards further limits the ability of Republic to pay dividends to us.

Dividend Policy
 
We have not paid any cash dividends on our common stock, and have no plans to pay any cash dividends in 2015 or in the foreseeable future.  See Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities of this Form 10-K for more information.

Deposit Insurance and Assessments

The FDIC is an independent federal agency that insures deposits, up to prescribed statutory limits, of federally insured banks and savings institutions and safeguards the safety and soundness of the banking and savings industries. The deposits of Republic are insured up to applicable limits per insured depositor by the FDIC.   As noted above, pursuant to the Dodd-Frank Act, the maximum deposit insurance amount has been permanently increased to $250,000.
 
As an FDIC-insured bank, Republic is subject to FDIC insurance assessments.  The FDIC regulations assess insurance premiums for small insured depository institutions based on a risk-based assessment system.  Under this assessment system, the FDIC evaluates the risk of each financial institution based on regulatory capital ratios and other supervisory factors. The rules base assessments on an institution’s average consolidated total assets less its average tangible equity, as opposed to total deposits.  The base assessment rates for small insured depository institutions range from 2.5 to 9 basis points for the least risky institutions to 30 to 45 basis points for the riskiest.  The rate schedules will automatically adjust in the future as the Deposit Insurance Fund (“DIF”) reserve ratio reaches certain milestones.
 
 
 
 
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The FDIC has authority to increase insurance assessments.  Any future increase in insurance premiums may adversely affect our results of operations.
 
The Dodd-Frank Act also requires the FDIC to take such steps as are necessary to increase the reserve ratio of the DIF from 1.15% to 1.35% of insured deposits by 2020. The FDIC has issued rules regarding the method to be used to achieve a 1.35% reserve ratio by 2020 and offset the effect on institutions with assets less than $10 billion in assets.
 
All FDIC-insured depository institutions pay an annual assessment to provide funds for the payment of interest on bonds issued by the Financing Corporation, a federal corporation chartered under the authority of the Federal Housing Finance Board.  The bonds, commonly referred to as Financing Corporation (“FICO”) bonds, were issued to capitalize the Federal Savings and Loan Insurance Corporation. These assessments will continue until the FICO bonds mature in 2017 through 2019.
 
 
Capital Adequacy

 The Federal Reserve has adopted risk-based capital guidelines for bank holding companies, such as us. The required minimum ratio of total capital to risk-weighted assets (including off-balance sheet activities, such as standby letters of credit) is 8.0%. At least half of the total capital is required to be Tier 1 capital, consisting principally of common shareholders’ equity, non-cumulative perpetual preferred stock and minority interests in the equity accounts of consolidated subsidiaries, less goodwill. The remainder, Tier 2 capital, may consist of a limited amount of subordinated debt and intermediate-term preferred stock, certain hybrid capital instruments and other debt securities, perpetual preferred stock, and a limited amount of the general loan loss allowance.
 
In addition to the risk-based capital guidelines, the Federal Reserve has established minimum leverage ratio (Tier 1 capital to average total assets) guidelines for bank holding companies. These guidelines currently provide for a minimum leverage ratio of 3% for those bank holding companies that have the highest regulatory examination ratings and are not contemplating or experiencing significant growth or expansion. All other bank holding companies currently must maintain a minimum Tier 1 leverage ratio of 4% with higher leverage capital ratios required for bank holding companies that have significant financial and/or operational weakness, a high risk profile, or are undergoing or anticipating rapid growth. Both we and Republic are in compliance with these guidelines. The FDIC subjects Republic to similar capital requirements.

In July 2013, the federal bank regulatory agencies adopted revisions to the agencies’ capital adequacy guidelines and prompt corrective action rules, which were designed to enhance such requirements and implement the revised standards of the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision, commonly referred to as Basel III. The final rules generally implement higher minimum capital requirements, add a new common equity tier 1 capital requirement, and establish criteria that instruments must meet to be considered common equity tier 1 capital, additional tier 1 capital or tier 2 capital.  The new minimum capital to risk-adjusted assets requirements are a common equity tier 1 capital ratio of 4.5% (6.5% to be considered “well capitalized”) and a tier 1 capital ratio of 6.0%, increased from 4.0% (and increased from 6.0% to 8.0% to be considered “well capitalized”); the total capital ratio remains at 8.0% under the new rules (10.0% to be considered “well capitalized”).  Under the new rules, in order to avoid limitations on capital distributions (including dividend payments and certain discretionary bonus payments to executive officers), a banking organization must hold a capital conservation buffer comprised of common equity tier 1 capital above its minimum risk-based capital requirements in an amount greater than 2.5% of total risk-weighted assets. The new minimum capital requirements were effective on January 1, 2015. The capital contribution buffer requirements phase in over a three-year period beginning January 1, 2016. Management has reviewed the new standards and evaluated all options and strategies to ensure compliance with the new standards.  Management believes that Republic will maintain its status as a “well-capitalized” financial institution under the new standards.
 
 
 
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The risk-based capital standards are required to take adequate account of interest rate risk, concentration of credit risk and the risks of non-traditional activities.  

Legislative and Regulatory Changes
 
We are heavily regulated by regulatory agencies at the federal and state levels.  We, like most of our competitors, have faced and expect to continue to face increased regulation and regulatory and political scrutiny, which creates significant uncertainty for us as well as the financial services industry in general.
 
Future Legislative and Regulatory Developments
 
It is conceivable that compliance with current or future legislative and regulatory initiatives could require us to change certain of our business practices, impose significant additional costs on us, limit the products that we offer, result in a significant loss of revenue, limit our ability to pursue business opportunities in an efficient manner, require us to increase our regulatory capital, cause business disruptions, impact the value of assets that we hold or otherwise adversely affect our business, results of operations, or financial condition.  We have recently witnessed the introduction of a number of regulatory proposals that could substantially impact us and others in the financial services industry.  The extent of changes imposed by, and frequency of adoption of, any regulatory initiatives could make it more difficult for us to comply in a timely manner, which could further limit our operations, increase compliance costs or divert management attention or other resources.  The long-term impact of legislative and regulatory initiatives on our business practices and revenues will depend upon the successful implementation of our strategies, consumer behavior, and competitors’ responses to such initiatives, all of which are difficult to predict.  Additionally, we may pursue, through appropriate avenues, legislative and regulatory advocacy to provide our input on possible legislative and regulatory developments.

Profitability, Monetary Policy and Economic Conditions
 
In addition to being affected by general economic conditions, the earnings and growth of Republic will be affected by the policies of regulatory authorities, including the Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities, the Federal Reserve.  An important function of the Federal Reserve is to regulate the supply of money and other credit conditions in order to manage interest rates.  The monetary policies and regulations of the Federal Reserve have had a significant effect on the operating results of commercial banks in the past and are expected to continue to do so in the future.  The effects of such policies upon the future business, earnings and growth of Republic cannot be determined.

Employees

As of December 31, 2014, we had a total of 235 full-time equivalent employees.

Item 1A:  Risk Factors
 
In addition to the other information included elsewhere in this report and in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Results of Operations and Financial Condition,” the following factors could significantly affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, or future prospects. Any of the following risks, either alone or taken together, could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, or future prospects.  If one or more of these or other risks or uncertainties materialize, or if our underlying assumptions prove to be incorrect, our actual results may be materially adversely affected. There may be additional risks that we do not presently know or that we currently believe are immaterial which could also materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, or future prospects.
 
 
 
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We are subject to credit risk in connection with our lending activities, and our financial condition and results of operations may be negatively impacted by economic conditions and other factors that adversely affect our borrowers.
 
Our financial condition and results of operations are affected by the ability of our borrowers to repay their loans, and in a timely manner.  Lending money is a significant part of the banking business.  Borrowers, however, do not always repay their loans.  The risk of non-payment is assessed through our underwriting and loan review procedures based on several factors including credit risks of a particular borrower, changes in economic conditions, the duration of the loan, and in the case of a collateralized loan, uncertainties as to the future value of the collateral and other factors.  Despite our efforts, we do and will experience loan losses, and our financial condition and results of operations will be adversely affected. Our non-performing assets were approximately $25.2 million at December 31, 2014.  Our allowance for loan losses was approximately $11.5 million at December 31, 2014.  Our loans between thirty and eighty-nine days delinquent totaled $15.7 million at December 31, 2014.

Our concentration of commercial real estate loans could result in increased loan losses and costs of compliance.
 
A substantial portion of our loan portfolio is comprised of commercial real estate loans.  The commercial real estate market is cyclical and poses risks of loss to us because of the concentration of commercial real estate loans in our loan portfolio, and the lack of diversity in risk associated with such a concentration.  Banking regulators have been giving and continue to give commercial real estate lending greater scrutiny, and banks with larger commercial real estate loan portfolios are expected by their regulators to implement improved underwriting, internal controls, risk management policies and portfolio stress-testing practices to manage risks associated with commercial real estate lending.  In addition, commercial real estate lenders are making greater provisions for loan losses and accumulating higher capital levels as a result of commercial real estate lending exposures.  Additional losses or regulatory requirements related to our commercial real estate loan concentration could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
 
Our allowance for loan losses may not be adequate to absorb actual loan losses, and we may be required to make further provisions for loan losses and charge off additional loans in the future, which could materially and adversely affect our business.
 
We attempt to maintain an allowance for loan losses, established through a provision for loan losses accounted for as an expense, which is adequate to absorb losses inherent in our loan portfolio.  If our allowance for loan losses is inadequate, it may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
 
The determination of the allowance for loan losses inherently involves a high degree of subjectivity and judgment and requires us to make significant estimates of current credit risks and future trends, all of which may undergo material changes.  Changes in economic conditions affecting borrowers, new information regarding existing loans, identification of additional problem loans and other factors, both within and outside of our control, may require us to increase our allowance for loan losses. Increases in nonperforming loans have a significant impact on our allowance for loan losses.  Our allowance for loan losses may not be adequate to absorb actual loan losses. If trends in the real estate markets were to deteriorate, we could experience increased delinquencies and credit losses, particularly with respect to real estate construction and land acquisition and development loans and one-to-four family residential mortgage loans. As a result, we may have to make provisions for loan losses and charge off loans in the future, which could materially adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. 
 
 
 
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In addition to our internal processes for determining loss allowances, bank regulatory agencies periodically review our allowance for loan losses and may require us to increase the provision for loan losses or recognize further loan charge-offs, based on judgments that differ from those of our management.  If loan charge-offs in future periods exceed the allowance for loan losses, we will need to increase our allowance for loan losses. Furthermore, growth in our loan portfolio would generally lead to an increase in the provision for loan losses. Any increases in our allowance for loan losses will result in a decrease in net income and capital, and may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
 
We are required to make significant estimates and assumptions in the preparation of our financial statements, including our allowance for loan losses, and our estimates and assumptions may not be accurate.
 
The preparation of our consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, or GAAP, require our management to make significant estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements, and the reported amounts of income and expense during the reporting periods.  Critical estimates are made by management in determining, among other things, the allowance for loan losses, carrying values of other real estate owned, assessment of other than temporary impairment (“OTTI”) of investment securities, fair value of financial instruments, and the realization of deferred income taxes.  If our underlying estimates and assumptions prove to be incorrect, our financial condition and results of operations may be materially adversely effected.
 
Our results of operations may be materially and adversely affected by other-than-temporary impairment charges relating to our investment portfolio.
 
In prior years we recorded other-than-temporary impairment charges for certain bank pooled trust preferred securities, and we may be required to record future impairment charges on our investment securities if they suffer declines in value that we determine are other-than-temporary. Numerous factors, including the lack of liquidity for re-sales of certain investment securities, the absence of reliable pricing information for investment securities, adverse changes in the business climate, adverse regulatory actions or unanticipated changes in the competitive environment, could have a negative effect on our investment portfolio in future periods. If an impairment charge is significant enough, it could affect the Bank’s ability to pay dividends, which could materially adversely affect us. Significant impairment charges could also negatively impact our regulatory capital ratios and result in us not being classified as “well-capitalized” for regulatory purposes.
 
Our net interest income, net income and results of operations are sensitive to fluctuations in interest rates.
 
Our net income depends on the net income of Republic, and Republic is dependent primarily upon its net interest income, which is the difference between the interest earned on its interest-earning assets, such as loans and investments, and the interest paid on its interest-bearing liabilities, such as deposits and borrowings.
 
Our results of operations will be affected by changes in market interest rates and other economic factors beyond our control.  If our interest-earning assets have longer effective maturities than our interest-bearing liabilities, the yield on our interest-earning assets generally will adjust more slowly than the cost of our interest-bearing liabilities, and, as a result, our net interest income generally will be adversely affected by material and prolonged increases in interest rates, and positively affected by comparable declines in interest rates.  Conversely, if liabilities re-price more slowly than assets, net interest income would be adversely affected by declining interest rates, and positively affected by increasing interest rates.  At any time, our assets and liabilities will reflect interest rate risk of some degree.
 
 
 
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In addition to affecting interest income and expense, changes in interest rates also can affect the value of our interest-earning assets, comprising fixed and adjustable-rate instruments, as well as the ability to realize gains from the sale of such assets.  Generally, the value of fixed-rate instruments fluctuates inversely with changes in interest rates, and changes in interest rates may therefore have a material adverse affect on our results of operations.
 
We are a holding company dependent for liquidity on payments from our banking subsidiary, which payments are subject to restrictions.
 
We are a holding company and depend on dividends, distributions and other payments from Republic to fund dividend payments, if any, and to fund all payments on obligations. Republic and its subsidiaries are subject to laws that restrict dividend payments or authorize regulatory bodies to block or reduce the flow of funds from those subsidiaries to us.  Restrictions or regulatory actions of that kind could impede our access to funds that we may need to make payments on our obligations or dividend payments, if any.  In addition, our right to participate in a distribution of assets upon a subsidiary’s liquidation or reorganization is subject to the prior claims of the subsidiary’s creditors.
 
We may be required to pay higher FDIC premiums or special assessments in the future that could adversely affect our earnings.
 
The FDIC’s insurance fund has been depleted over recent years as a result of bank failures across the country.  The Dodd-Frank Act requires the FDIC to increase reserves against future losses, which requires increased assessments that are to be borne primarily by institutions with assets of greater than $10 billion. In addition, the FDIC may issue a special assessment across all FDIC insured institutions.  Any future increases in FDIC assessments or higher periodic fees could adversely affect us.
 
Our business is concentrated in and dependent upon the continued growth and welfare of our primary market area.

Our primary service area consists of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey.  Our success depends upon the business activity, population, income levels, deposits and real estate activity in this area.  Although our customers’ businesses and financial interests may extend well beyond this area, adverse economic conditions that affect our primary service area could reduce our growth rate, affect the ability of our customers to repay their loans to us, and generally adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. Because of our geographic concentration, we are less able than other regional or national financial institutions to diversify our credit risks across multiple markets.
 
Unfavorable economic and financial market conditions may adversely affect our financial position and results of operations.
 
Although the U.S. economy has continued to gradually improve from the depressed levels of 2008 and early 2009, economic growth has been slow and uneven.  We are operating in a challenging and uncertain economic environment, including generally uncertain conditions nationally and globally. While economic conditions in the United States are showing signs of recovery, there can be no assurance that these difficult conditions will continue to improve.  Concerns over the stability of the financial markets and the economy have resulted in decreased lending by financial institutions to their customers and to each other.  This market turmoil and tightening of credit has led to increased commercial and consumer deficiencies, lack of customer confidence, increased market volatility and widespread reduction in general business activity.
 
 
 
 
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The existing economic pressure on consumers and businesses and the lack of confidence in the financial markets may adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and stock price.  A worsening of current economic conditions would likely exacerbate the adverse effects of existing market conditions on us and others in the industry.  In particular, we may face the following risks in connection with these events:

 
·
increased regulation of our industry and increased compliance costs;

 
·
hampering our ability to assess the creditworthiness of customers and to estimate the losses inherent in our credit exposure, as such assessments are made more complex by these difficult market and economic conditions;

 
·
increasing our credit risk, by increasing the likelihood that our major customers become insolvent and unable to satisfy their obligations to us;
 
 
·
impairing our ability to originate loans, by making our customers and prospective customers less willing to borrow, and making loans that meet our underwriting criteria difficult to find; and
 
 
·
limiting our interest income, by depressing the yields we are able to earn on our investment portfolio.
 
These potential effects are difficult to forecast and mitigate.  Distress in the credit markets and issues relating to liquidity among financial institutions have resulted in the failure of some financial institutions and others have been forced to seek acquisition partners. The United States and other governments have taken unprecedented steps in an effort to stabilize the financial system, including investing in financial institutions.  These efforts, however, may not succeed.  Our business as well as our financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected by disruption and volatility in financial markets, continued capital and liquidity concerns regarding financial institutions, limitations resulting from further governmental action in an effort to stabilize or provide additional regulation of the financial system.
 
Our ability to use net operating loss carryforwards to reduce future tax payments may be limited.
 
As of December 31, 2014, we had approximately $29.5 million of U.S. Federal net operating loss carryforwards, referred to as “NOLs,” available to reduce taxable income in future years.
 
Utilization of the NOLs may be subject to a substantial annual limitation due to ownership change limitations that may have occurred or that could occur in the future, as required by Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, referred to as the “Code.” These ownership changes may limit the amount of NOLs that can be utilized annually to offset future taxable income and tax, respectively. In general, an ownership change, as defined by Section 382 of the Code results from a transaction or series of transactions over a three-year period resulting in an ownership change of more than 50 percentage points of the outstanding stock of a company by certain stockholders or public groups. In the event of an ownership change, Section 382 imposes an annual limitation on the amount of post-ownership change taxable income a corporation may offset with pre-ownership change NOLs. The limitation imposed by Section 382 for any post-change year would be determined by multiplying the value of our stock immediately before the ownership change (subject to certain adjustments) by the applicable long-term tax-exempt rate. Any unused annual limitation may be carried over to later years, and the limitation may under certain circumstances be increased by built-in gains which may be present with respect to assets held by us at the time of the ownership change that are recognized in the five-year period after the ownership change.
 
 
 
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In addition, the ability to use NOLs will be dependent on our ability to generate taxable income. The NOLs may expire before we generate sufficient taxable income. There were no NOLs that expired in the fiscal years ended December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013. There are no NOLs that could expire if not utilized for the year ending December 31, 2015.
 
Our assets as of December 31, 2014 included a deferred tax asset and we may not be able to realize the full amount of such asset.
 
We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities based on differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax bases of assets and liabilities. At December 31, 2014, the net deferred tax asset was approximately $5.0 million, compared to a balance of approximately $6.1 million at December 31, 2013. The decrease in the net deferred tax asset resulted mainly from decreases in the net operating loss carryforward and the unrealized losses on securities available for sale in 2014.
 
We regularly review our deferred tax assets for recoverability to determine whether it is more likely than not (i.e. likelihood of more than 50%) that some portion, or all, of the deferred tax asset will not be realized within its life cycle, based on the weight of available evidence.  If management makes a determination based on the available evidence that it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized in future periods, a valuation allowance is calculated and recorded.  These determinations are inherently subjective and dependent upon estimates and judgments concerning management’s evaluation of both positive and negative evidence.
 
Based on the analysis of the available positive and negative evidence, we determined that a valuation allowance should be recorded as of December 31, 2014.  As a result of cumulative losses in recent years and the slow and uneven growth in the current economic environment, we did not use projections of future taxable income, exclusive of reversing temporary timing differences and carryforwards, as a factor to project recoverability of the deferred tax asset balance.   We will exclude future taxable income as a factor until we can show consistent and sustained profitability. The release of this valuation allowance would have a positive impact on future earnings.  There can be no assurance as to when we could be in a position to recapture the benefits of our deferred tax asset.  Further discussion on the analysis of our deferred tax asset can be found in the “Provision (Benefit) for Income Taxes” section of Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
 
We may not be able to manage our growth, which may adversely impact our financial results.
 
As part of our retail growth strategy, we may expand into additional communities or attempt to strengthen our position in our current markets by opening new stores and acquiring existing stores of other financial institutions.  To the extent that we undertake additional stores openings and acquisitions, we are likely to experience the effects of higher operating expenses relative to operating income from the new operations, which may have an adverse effect on our levels of reported net income, return on average equity and return on average assets. Other effects of engaging in such growth strategies may include potential diversion of our management’s time and attention and general disruption to our business.
 
As part of our retail strategy, we plan to open new stores in our primary service area, including Southern New Jersey.  We may not, however, be able to identify attractive locations on terms favorable to us, obtain regulatory approvals, or hire qualified management to operate new stores.  In addition, the organizational and overhead costs may be greater than we anticipate.  New stores may take longer than expected to reach profitability, or may not become profitable.  The additional costs of starting new stores may adversely impact our financial results.
 
 
 
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Our ability to manage growth successfully will depend on whether we can continue to fund our growth while maintaining cost controls, as well as on factors beyond our control, such as national and regional economic conditions and interest rate trends.  If we are not able to control costs, such growth could adversely impact our earnings and financial condition.
 
Our retail strategy relies heavily on our management team, and the unexpected loss of key managers may adversely affect our operations.
 
Since June 2008, we have been successful in attracting new, talented management to Republic, to add to our management team.   We believe that our ability to successfully implement our retail strategy will require us to retain and attract additional management experienced in banking and financial services, and familiar with the communities in our market.  Our ability to retain executive officers, the current management teams, branch managers and loan officers of Republic will continue to be important to the successful implementation of our strategy.  It is also critical, as we grow, to be able to attract and retain qualified additional management and loan officers with the appropriate level of experience and knowledge about our market areas to implement the community-based operating strategy. The unexpected loss of services of any key management personnel, or the inability to recruit and retain qualified personnel in the future, could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
 
We are subject to numerous governmental regulations and to comprehensive examination and supervision by regulators, which could have an adverse impact on our operations and could restrict the scope of our operations.
 
Both the Company and Republic operate in a highly regulated environment and are subject to supervision and regulation by several governmental regulatory agencies, including the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, the FDIC and the Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities (“PDB”). We are subject to federal and state regulations governing virtually all aspects of our activities, including lines of business, capital, liquidity, investments, payment of dividends, and others. Regulations that apply to us are generally intended to provide protection for depositors and customers rather than investors.
 
We are subject to extensive regulation and supervision under federal and state laws and regulations. See Item 1. Business - Supervision and Regulation. The requirements and limitations imposed by such laws and regulations limit the manner in which we conduct our business, undertake new investments and activities and obtain financing.  Financial institution regulation has been the subject of significant legislation in recent years and may be the subject of further significant legislation in the future, none of which is within our control. For example, Basel III regulations adopted by the federal bank regulatory agencies will require bank holding companies and banks to undertake significant activities to demonstrate compliance with the new and higher capital standards.  Compliance with these rules, which are still being analyzed, could impose additional costs on banking entities and their holding companies.  Management is reviewing the new standards and evaluating all options and strategies to ensure compliance with the new standards, notwithstanding Republic’s current status as well-capitalized.
 
New programs and proposals may subject us and other financial institutions to additional restrictions, oversight and costs that may have an adverse impact on our business, financial condition, results of operations or the price of our common stock. Federal and state regulatory agencies also frequently adopt changes to their regulations or change the manner in which existing regulations are applied or enforced. We cannot predict the substance or impact of future legislation, regulation or the application thereof. Compliance with such current and potential regulation and scrutiny may significantly increase our costs, impede the efficiency of our internal business processes, require us to increase our regulatory capital and limit our ability to pursue business opportunities in an efficient manner.
 
 
 
 
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We face significant competition in our market from other banks and financial institutions.
 
The banking and financial services industry in our market area is highly competitive.  We may not be able to compete effectively in our markets, which could adversely affect our results of operations.  The increasingly competitive environment is a result of changes in regulation, changes in technology and product delivery systems, and consolidation among financial service providers.  Larger institutions have greater access to capital markets, with higher lending limits and a broader array of services.  Competition may require increases in deposit rates and decreases in loan rates, and adversely impact our net interest margin.
 
We may not have the resources to effectively implement new technologies, which could adversely affect our competitive position and results of operations.
 
The financial services industry is constantly undergoing technological changes with frequent introductions of new technology-driven products and services.  In addition to better serving customers, the effective use of technology increases efficiency and enables financial institutions to reduce costs.  Our future success will depend in part upon our ability to address the needs of our customers by using technology to provide products and services that will satisfy customer demands for convenience as well as to create additional efficiencies in our operations as we continue to grow and expand in our market. Many of our larger competitors have substantially greater resources to invest in technological improvements. As a result, they may be able to offer additional or superior products to those that we will be able to offer, which would put us at a competitive disadvantage. Accordingly, we may not be able to effectively implement new technology-driven products and services or be successful in marketing such products and services to our customers.  If we are unable to do so, our competitive position and results of operations could be adversely affected.
 
Our disclosure controls and procedures and our internal control over financial reporting may not achieve their intended objectives.
 
We maintain disclosure controls and procedures designed to ensure that we timely report information as specified in the rules and forms of the Securities and Exchange Commission, although we have not always so reported.  We also maintain a system of internal control over financial reporting.  These controls may not achieve their intended objectives.  Control processes that involve human diligence and compliance, such as our disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting, are subject to lapses in judgment and breakdowns resulting from human failures.  Controls can also be circumvented by collusion or improper management override.  Because of such limitations, there are risks that material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be prevented or detected and that information may not be reported on a timely basis.  If our controls are not effective, it could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, and market for our common stock, and could subject us to regulatory scrutiny.
 
We are subject to certain operational risks, including, but not limited to, customer or employee fraud and data processing system failures and errors. 
 
Employee errors and misconduct could subject us to financial losses or regulatory sanctions and seriously harm our reputation. Misconduct by our employees could include hiding unauthorized activities from us, improper or unauthorized activities on behalf of our customers or improper use of confidential information. It is not always possible to prevent employee errors and misconduct, and the precautions we take to prevent and detect this activity may not be effective in all cases. Employee errors could also subject us to financial claims for negligence.
 
 
 
19
 
 
 
We maintain a system of internal controls and insurance coverage to mitigate operational risks, including data processing system failures and errors, and customer or employee fraud. Should our internal controls fail to prevent or detect an occurrence, or if any resulting loss is not insured or exceeds applicable insurance limits, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
 
System failure or breaches of our network security could subject us to increased operating costs as well as litigation and other liabilities.
 
The computer systems and network infrastructure we use could be vulnerable to unforeseen problems. Our operations are dependent upon our ability to protect our computer equipment against damage from physical theft, fire, power loss, telecommunications failure or a similar catastrophic event, as well as from security breaches, denial of service attacks, viruses, worms and other disruptive problems caused by hackers. Any damage or failure that causes an interruption in our operations could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. Computer break-ins, phishing and other disruptions could also jeopardize the security of information stored in and transmitted through our computer systems and network infrastructure, which may result in significant liability to us and may cause existing and potential customers to refrain from doing business with us. Although we, with the help of third-party service providers, intend to continue to implement security technology and establish operational procedures to prevent such damage, these security measures may not be successful. In addition, advances in computer capabilities, new discoveries in the field of cryptography or other developments could result in a compromise or breach of the algorithms we and our third-party service providers use to encrypt and protect customer transaction data. A failure of such security measures could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
 
If we want to, or are compelled to, raise additional capital in the future, that capital may not be available to us when it is needed or on terms that are favorable to us or current shareholders.
 
Federal banking regulators require us, and Republic, to maintain capital to support our operations.  Regulatory capital ratios are defined and required ratios are established by laws and regulations promulgated by banking regulatory agencies.  At December 31, 2014, our regulatory capital ratios were above “well capitalized” levels under current bank regulatory guidelines. To be “well capitalized,” banking companies generally must maintain a Tier 1 leverage ratio of at least 5%, a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of at least 6%, and a total risk-based capital ratio of at least 10%. Regulators, however, may require us, or Republic, to maintain higher regulatory capital ratios.  For example, regulators recently have required some banks to attain a Tier 1 leverage ratio of at least 8%, a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of at least 10%, and a total risk-based capital ratio of at least 12%.  In addition, as discussed in Item 1. Business – Supervision and Regulation - Capital Adequacy, in July 2013 the FDIC and other federal banking agencies adopted new standards revising regulatory capital requirements, which establish new higher capital ratio requirements and narrow the definitions of capital.

Our ability to raise additional capital in the future will depend on conditions in the capital markets at that time, which are outside of our control, on our financial performance and on other factors. Accordingly, we may not be able to raise additional capital on terms and time frames acceptable to us, or at all.  If we cannot raise additional capital in sufficient amounts when needed, our ability to comply with regulatory capital requirements could be materially impaired. Additionally, the inability to raise capital in sufficient amounts may adversely affect our operations, financial condition and results of operations.  Our ability to borrow could also be impaired by factors that are nonspecific to us, such as disruption of the financial markets or negative news and expectations about the prospects for the financial services industry.  If we raise capital through the issuance of additional shares of our common stock or other securities, we would likely dilute the ownership interests of investors, and could dilute the per share book value and earnings per share of our common stock.  Furthermore, a capital raise through issuance of additional shares may have an adverse impact on our stock price.
 
 
 
20
 
 
 
We are exposed to environmental liabilities with respect to real estate that we have or had title to in the past.
 
A significant portion of our loan portfolio is secured by real property. In the course of our business, we may foreclose, accept deeds in lieu of foreclosure, or otherwise acquire real estate, and in doing so could become subject to environmental liabilities with respect to these properties.  We may become responsible to a governmental agency or third parties for property damage, personal injury, investigation and clean-up costs incurred by those parties in connection with environmental contamination, or may be required to investigate or clean-up hazardous or toxic substances, or chemical releases at a property. The costs associated with environmental investigation or remediation activities could be substantial. In addition, as the owner or former owner of a contaminated site, we may be subject to common law claims by third parties based on damages and costs resulting from environmental contamination emanating from the property.  Although we have policies and procedures to perform an environmental review before acquiring title to any real property, these may not be sufficient to detect all potential environmental hazards.  If we were to become subject to significant environmental liabilities, it could materially and adversely affect us.
 
Our common stock is not insured by any governmental entity and, therefore, an investment in our common stock involves risk.

Our common stock is not a deposit account or other obligation of any bank, and is not insured by the FDIC or any other governmental entity, and is subject to investment risk, including possible loss.

There may be future sales of our common stock, which may materially and adversely affect the market price of our common stock.

We are not restricted from issuing additional shares of our common stock, including securities that are convertible into or exchangeable or exercisable for shares of our common stock. Our issuance of shares of common stock in the future will dilute the ownership interests of our existing shareholders.
 
Additionally, the sale of substantial amounts of our common stock or securities convertible into or exchangeable or exercisable for our common stock, whether directly by us or by existing common shareholders in the secondary market, the perception that such sales could occur or the availability for future sale of shares of our common stock or securities convertible into or exchangeable or exercisable for our common stock could, in turn, materially and adversely affect the market price of our common stock and our ability to raise capital through future offerings of equity or equity-related securities.  We are party to a registration rights agreement with the holders of the convertible trust preferred securities of Republic First Bancorp Capital Trust IV, which requires us, under certain circumstances, to register up to 1.7 million shares of our common stock into which the trust preferred securities may be converted for resale under the Securities Act of 1933.
 
In addition, our Board of Directors is authorized to designate and issue preferred stock without further shareholder approval, and we may issue other equity securities that are senior to our common stock in the future for a number of reasons, including, without limitation, to support operations and growth, to maintain our capital ratios and to comply with any future changes in regulatory standards.
 
 
 
21
 
 
 
Our common stock is currently traded on the Nasdaq Global Market.  During 2014, the average daily trading volume for our common stock was approximately 91,300 shares.  Sales of our common stock may place significant downward pressure on the market price of our common stock. Furthermore, it may be difficult for holders to resell their shares at prices they find attractive, or at all.

Our common stock is subordinate to our existing and future indebtedness and any preferred stock and effectively subordinated to all indebtedness and preferred equity claims against our subsidiaries.

Shares of our common stock are common equity interests in us and, as such, will rank junior to all of our existing and future indebtedness and other liabilities. Additionally, holders of our common stock may become subject to the prior dividend and liquidation rights of holders of any classes or series of preferred stock that our Board of Directors may designate and issue without any action on the part of the holders of our common stock. Furthermore, our right to participate in a distribution of assets upon any of our subsidiaries’ liquidation or reorganization is subject to the prior claims of that subsidiary’s creditors and preferred shareholders. As of December 31, 2014, we had $22.5 million of outstanding debt.

Our ability to pay dividends depends upon the results of operations of our subsidiaries.

We have never declared or paid cash dividends on our common stock.  Our Board of Directors intends to follow a policy of retaining earnings for the purpose of increasing our capital for the foreseeable future.
 
Holders of our common stock are entitled to receive dividends if, as and when declared from time to time by our Board of Directors in its sole discretion out of funds legally available for that purpose, after debt service payments and payments of dividends required to be paid on our outstanding preferred stock, if any.
 
While we, as a bank holding company, are not subject to certain restrictions on dividends applicable to Republic, our ability to pay dividends to the holders of our common stock will depend to a large extent upon the amount of dividends paid by Republic to us.  Regulatory authorities restrict the amount of cash dividends Republic can declare and pay without prior regulatory approval.  Presently, Republic cannot declare or pay dividends in any one-year in excess of retained earnings for that year subject to risk based capital requirements.

If we fail to maintain an effective system of internal control over financial reporting and disclosure controls and procedures, current and potential shareholders may lose confidence in our financial reporting and disclosures and could subject us to regulatory scrutiny.

Pursuant to Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, referred to as Section 404, we are required to include in our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, our management’s report on internal control over financial reporting. While we have reported no material weaknesses in the Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014, we cannot guarantee that we will not have any material weaknesses in the future.
 
Compliance with the requirements of Section 404 is expensive and time-consuming. If, in the future, we fail to complete this evaluation in a timely manner we could be subject to regulatory scrutiny and a loss of public confidence in our internal control over financial reporting.  In addition, any failure to maintain an effective system of disclosure controls and procedures could cause our current and potential shareholders and customers to lose confidence in our financial reporting and disclosure required under the Exchange Act, which could adversely affect our business.
 
 
 
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Our governing documents, Pennsylvania law, and current policies of our Board of Directors contain provisions, which may reduce the likelihood of a change in control transaction, which may otherwise be available and attractive to shareholders.

Our articles of incorporation and bylaws contain certain anti-takeover provisions that may make it more difficult or expensive or may discourage a tender offer, change in control or takeover attempt that is opposed by our Board of Directors.  In particular, the articles of incorporation and bylaws classify our Board of Directors into three groups, so that shareholders elect only approximately one-third of the Board each year; permit shareholders to remove directors only for cause and only upon the vote of the holders of at least 75% of the voting shares; require our shareholders to give us advance notice to nominate candidates for election to the Board of Directors or to make shareholder proposals at a shareholders’ meeting; require the vote of the holders of at least 60% of our voting shares for shareholder amendments to our bylaws; require the vote of the holders of at least 75% of our voting shares to approve certain business combinations; and restrict the holdings and voting rights of shareholders who would acquire more than 10% of our outstanding common stock without the approval of two-thirds of our Board of Directors.  These provisions of our articles of incorporation and bylaws could discourage potential acquisition proposals and could delay or prevent a change in control, even though a majority of our shareholders may consider such proposals desirable.  Such provisions could also make it more difficult for third parties to remove and replace the members of our Board of Directors.  Moreover, these provisions could diminish the opportunities for shareholders to participate in certain tender offers, including tender offers at prices above the then-current market value of our common stock, and may also inhibit increases in the trading price of our common stock that could result from takeover attempts or speculation. 

In addition, anti-takeover provisions in Pennsylvania law could make it more difficult for a third party to acquire control of us. These provisions could adversely affect the market price of our common stock and could reduce the amount that shareholders might receive if we are sold.  For example, Pennsylvania law may restrict a third party’s ability to obtain control of us and may prevent shareholders from receiving a premium for their shares of our common stock.  Pennsylvania law also provides that our shareholders are not entitled by statute to propose amendments to our articles of incorporation.

Item 1B:  Unresolved Staff Comments
 
None.
 
Item 2:  Description of Properties

The Company currently leases its headquarters, executive offices, and twelve store locations under lease agreements that expire at various dates in the future.  The spaces covered by these leases range in square footage from approximately 800 square feet to 40,000 square feet.  Please see Note 11 “Commitments and Contingencies” to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further information regarding the leases.  In addition, the Company owns five properties utilized for store locations.  Three of the stores are open and operating today and two are currently under construction.  Management believes these facilities are adequate to meet the Company’s present and immediately foreseeable needs.
  
Item 3:  Legal Proceedings
 
The Company and Republic are from time to time parties (plaintiff or defendant) to lawsuits in the normal course of business. While any litigation involves an element of uncertainty, management is of the opinion that the liability of the Company and Republic, if any, resulting from such actions will not have a material effect on the financial condition or results of operations of the Company and Republic.
 
 
 
23
 
 
 
Item 4:  Mine Safety Disclosures
 
Not applicable.
 

 
PART II
 

 
Item 5:  Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
 
Market Information
 
Shares of the Company’s class of common stock are listed on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol “FRBK.”  The table below sets forth the high and low sales prices reported for the common stock on the Nasdaq Global Market for the periods indicated.   As of March 12, 2015, there were approximately 2,100 record holders of the Company’s common stock.   On March 12, 2015, the closing price of a share of common stock on The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC was $3.55.

Quarter
High
Low
2014:
   
4th
 $ 4.32
 $ 3.61
3rd
 $ 5.18
 $ 3.86
2nd
 $ 6.00
 $ 3.48
1st
 $ 4.59
 $ 2.86
     
2013:
   
4th
 $ 3.30
 $ 2.90
3rd
 $ 3.83
 $ 2.75
2nd
 $ 3.19
 $ 2.62
1st
 $ 2.78
 $ 1.97

 
Dividend Policy
 
The Company has not paid any cash dividends on its common stock and has no plans to pay cash dividends during 2015 .   The Company’s ability to pay dividends depends primarily on receipt of dividends from the Company’s subsidiary, Republic.  Dividend payments from Republic are subject to legal and regulatory limitations.  The ability of Republic to pay dividends is also subject to profitability, financial condition, capital expenditures and other cash flow requirements.
 
 
 
 
24
 
 
 
 
Item 6:  Selected Financial Data

   
As of or for the Years Ended December 31,
 
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
 
2014
   
2013
   
2012
   
2011
   
2010
 
                               
INCOME STATEMENT DATA
                             
Total interest income
  $ 40,473     $ 37,205     $ 38,260     $ 38,273     $ 40,309  
Total interest expense
    4,644       4,590       6,366       8,199       10,245  
Net interest income
    35,829       32,615       31,894       30,074       30,064  
Provision for loan losses
    900       4,935       1,350       15,966       16,600  
Non-interest income
    8,017       9,216       8,828       10,581       2,620  
Non-interest expenses
    40,550       40,411       35,902       41,200       32,848  
Income (loss) before provision (benefit) for income taxes
    2,396       (3,515 )     3,470       (16,511 )     (16,764 )
Provision (benefit) for income taxes
    (46 )     (35 )     (144 )     8,191       (6,074 )
Net income (loss)
  $ 2,442     $ (3,480 )   $ 3,614     $ (24,702 )   $ (10,690 )
                                         
PER SHARE DATA
                                       
Basic earnings (loss) per share
  $ 0.07     $ (0.13 )   $ 0.14     $ (0.95 )   $ (0.57 )
Diluted earnings (loss) per share
  $ 0.07     $ (0.13 )   $ 0.14     $ (0.95 )   $ (0.57 )
Book value per share
  $ 2.98     $ 2.42     $ 2.69     $ 2.50     $ 3.39  
                                         
BALANCE SHEET DATA
                                       
Total assets
  $ 1,214,598     $ 961,665     $ 988,658     $ 1,047,353     $ 876,097  
Total loans, net
    770,404       667,048       608,359       577,442       608,911  
Total investment securities
    254,402       206,482       193,142       179,784       150,087  
Total deposits
    1,072,230       869,534       889,201       952,611       757,730  
Subordinated debt
    22,476       22,476       22,476       22,476       22,476  
Total shareholders’ equity
    112,811       62,899       69,902       64,851       88,146  
                                         
PERFORMANCE RATIOS
                                       
Return on average assets
    0.23 %     (0.37 )%     0.37 %     (2.68 )%     (1.14 )%
Return on average shareholders’ equity
    2.51 %     (5.07 )%     5.36 %     (28.68 )%     (13.42 )%
Net interest margin
    3.56 %     3.66 %     3.53 %     3.59 %     3.50 %
Total non-interest expenses as a percentage of average assets
    3.80 %     4.25 %     3.70 %     4.47 %     3.52 %
                                         
ASSET QUALITY RATIOS
                                       
Allowance for loan losses as a percentage of loans
    1.48 %     1.81 %     1.54 %     2.04 %     1.84 %
Allowance for loan losses as a percentage of non-performing loans
    53.81 %     117.69 %     59.46 %     106.52 %     28.62 %
Non-performing loans as a percentage of total loans
    2.74 %     1.53 %     2.60 %     1.92 %     6.45 %
Non-performing assets as a percentage of total assets
    2.07 %     1.51 %     2.52 %     1.70 %     6.30 %
Net charge-offs as a percentage of average loans, net
    0.22 %     0.35 %     0.63 %     2.44 %     2.73 %
                                         
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RATIOS
                                       
Average equity to average assets
    9.12 %     7.22 %     6.95 %     9.34 %     8.47 %
Leverage ratio
    11.23 %     8.59 %     9.01 %     8.77 %     11.01 %
Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets
    13.88 %     10.28 %     11.48 %     11.81 %     13.68 %
Total capital to risk-weighted assets
    15.10 %     11.53 %     12.73 %     13.09 %     14.93 %
 
 
 
 
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Item 7:  Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 
The following discussion and analysis of the results of operations and financial condition should be read in conjunction with Item 6 “Selected Financial Data” and the consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in Item 8 of this report. This discussion and analysis contains forward-looking statements that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Certain risks, uncertainties and other factors, including but not limited to those set forth in Item 1A, entitled, “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this report may cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements.

Executive Summary

The highlights for the year ended December 31, 2014 are as follows:

·
Total assets increased by $253 million, or 26%, to $1.2 billion as of December 31, 2014 compared to $962 million as of December 31, 2013.

·
Non-interest bearing demand deposits increased by 42% to $224 million as of December 31, 2014 compared to $158 million as of December 31, 2013.

·
Total deposits increased by $203 million, or 23%, to $1.1 billion as of December 31, 2014 compared to $870 million as of December 31, 2013. The cost of funds on interest bearing deposits decreased to 0.47% for the year ended December 31, 2014 compared to 0.50% for the year ended December 31, 2013.

·
Total loans grew $103 million, or 15%, to $782 million as of December 31, 2014 compared to $679 million at December 31, 2013.

·
SBA lending continued to be a focal point of the Company’s lending strategy. More than $56 million in new SBA loans were originated during the year ended December 31, 2014. Our team is currently ranked as the #1 SBA lender in the tri-state market of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware based on the dollar volume of loan originations.

·
Shareholders’ equity increased by 79% to $113 million as of December 31, 2014 compared to $63 million as of December 31, 2013 as a result of the $45 million common stock offering closed during the second quarter of 2014.

·
The Company’s Total Risk-Based Capital ratio was 15.10% and Tier I Leverage ratio was 11.23% at December 31, 2014.

·
Tangible book value per share was $2.98 as of December 31, 2014.

·
In 2014, we opened two new locations in Cherry Hill and Glassboro, NJ which feature our new and distinctive prototype building. We also relocated our store in Voorhees, NJ to a prime location on the other side of town and expanded and renovated our 1601 Market store in Center City Philadelphia in 2014.

·
Our Haddonfield, NJ store, which opened four years ago, has grown to more than $100 million in core deposits during 2014.
 
 
 
 
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Critical Accounting Policies, Judgments and Estimates
 
In reviewing and understanding our financial information, you are encouraged to read and understand the significant accounting policies used in preparing the consolidated financial statements. These policies are described in Note 2 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. The accounting and financial reporting policies conform to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America and to general practices within the banking industry. The preparation of the consolidated financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of income and expenses during the reporting period. Management evaluates these estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis including those related to the allowance for loan losses, other than temporary impairment of securities and deferred income taxes.  Management bases its estimates on historical experience and various other factors and assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. These form the basis for making judgments on the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

We have identified the policies related to the allowance for loan losses, other-than-temporary impairment of securities and deferred income taxes as being critical.
 
Allowance for Loan Losses - Management’s ongoing evaluation of the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses is based on our past loan loss experience, the volume and composition of our lending, adverse situations that may affect a borrower’s ability to repay, the estimated value of any underlying collateral, current economic conditions and other factors affecting the known and inherent risk in the portfolio.  The allowance for loan losses is increased by charges to income through the provision for loan losses and decreased by charge-offs (net of recoveries). The allowance is maintained at a level that management, based upon its evaluation, considers adequate to absorb losses inherent in the loan portfolio. This evaluation is inherently subjective as it requires material estimates including, among others, the amount and timing of expected future cash flows on impacted loans, exposure at default, value of collateral, and estimated losses on our commercial and residential loan portfolios. All of these estimates may be susceptible to significant change.
 
The allowance consists of specific allowances for both impaired and classified loans and a general allowance on the remainder of the portfolio. Although management determines the amount of each element of the allowance separately, the allowance for loan losses is available for the entire loan portfolio.
 
Management establishes an allowance on certain impaired loans for the amount by which the discounted cash flows, observable market price, or fair value of collateral if the loan is collateral dependent, is lower than the carrying value of the loan. A loan is considered to be impaired when, based upon current information and events, it is probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan. A delay or shortfall in amount of payments does not necessarily result in the loan being identified as impaired.
 
Management also establishes a general allowance on non-classified loans to recognize the inherent losses associated with lending activities, but which, unlike specific allowances, have not been allocated to particular loans. This general valuation allowance is determined by segregating the loans by loan category and assigning allowance percentages based on our historical loss experience, delinquency trends, and management’s evaluation of the collectability of the loan portfolio.

Management also evaluates classified loans, which are not impaired. We segregate these loans by category and assign qualitative factors to each loan based on inherent losses associated with each type of lending and consideration that these loans, in the aggregate, represent an above-average credit risk and that more of these loans will prove to be uncollectible compared to loans in the general portfolio.  Classification of a loan within this category is based on identified weaknesses that increase the credit risk of the loan.
 
 
 
27
 
 

 
The allowance is adjusted for significant factors that, in management’s judgment, affect the collectability of the portfolio as of the evaluation date. These significant factors may include changes in lending policies and procedures, changes in existing general economic and business conditions affecting its primary lending areas, credit quality trends, collateral value, loan volumes and concentrations, seasoning of the loan portfolio, loss experience in particular segments of the portfolio, duration of the current business cycle, and bank regulatory examination results. The applied loss factors are re-evaluated each reporting period to ensure their relevance in the current economic environment.

While management uses the best information known to it in order to make loan loss allowance valuations, adjustments to the allowance may be necessary based on changes in economic and other conditions, changes in the composition of the loan portfolio, or changes in accounting guidance. In times of economic slowdown, either regional or national, the risk inherent in the loan portfolio could increase resulting in the need for additional provisions to the allowance for loan losses in future periods. An increase could also be necessitated by an increase in the size of the loan portfolio or in any of its components even though the credit quality of the overall portfolio may be improving. Historically, the estimates of the allowance for loan loss have provided adequate coverage against actual losses incurred.  In addition, the Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities and the FDIC, as an integral part of their examination processes, periodically review the allowance for loan losses. The Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities or the FDIC may require the recognition of adjustment to the allowance for loan losses based on their judgment of information available to them at the time of their examinations. To the extent that actual outcomes differ from management’s estimates, additional provisions to the allowance for loan losses may be required that would adversely impact earnings in future periods.
 
Other-Than-Temporary Impairment of Securities - Securities are evaluated on at least a quarterly basis, and more frequently when market conditions warrant such an evaluation, to determine whether a decline in their value is other-than-temporary. To determine whether a loss in value is other-than-temporary, management utilizes criteria such as the reasons underlying the decline, the magnitude and duration of the decline and our intent and ability to retain its investment in the security for a period of time sufficient to allow for an anticipated recovery in the fair value. The term “other-than-temporary” is not intended to indicate that the decline is permanent, but indicates that the prospects for a near-term recovery of value is not necessarily favorable, or that there is a lack of evidence to support a realizable value equal to or greater than the carrying value of the investment. Once a decline in value is determined to be other-than-temporary, the value of the security is reduced and a corresponding charge to earnings is recognized.
 
Income Taxes - Management makes estimates and judgments to calculate various tax liabilities and determine the recoverability of various deferred tax assets, which arise from temporary differences between the tax and financial statement recognition of revenues and expenses. Management also estimates a reserve for deferred tax assets if, based on the available evidence, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the recorded deferred tax assets will not be realized in future periods. These estimates and judgments are inherently subjective. Historically, management’s estimates and judgments to calculate the deferred tax accounts have not required significant revision.
 
In evaluating our ability to recover deferred tax assets, management considers all available positive and negative evidence, including the past operating results and forecasts of future taxable income. In determining future taxable income, management makes assumptions for the amount of taxable income, the reversal of temporary differences and the implementation of feasible and prudent tax planning strategies. These assumptions require management to make judgments about the future taxable income and are consistent with the plans and estimates used to manage the business. Any reduction in estimated future taxable income may require management to record a valuation allowance against the deferred tax assets. An increase in the valuation allowance would result in additional income tax expense in the period and could have a significant impact on future earnings.
 
 
 
 
28
 

 
Results of Operations

For the year ended December 31, 2014 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2013

We reported net income of $2.4 million, or $0.07 per share, for the twelve months ended December 31, 2014 compared to a net loss of $3.5 million, or $(0.13) per share, for the twelve months ended December 31, 2013.  Prior year net income was impacted by a loan loss provision in the amount of $3.6 million on a single loan and a one-time charge of $1.9 million related to a legal settlement.
 
Net interest income for the twelve months ended December 31, 2014 increased $3.2 million to $35.8 million as compared to $32.6 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2013.  Interest income increased $3.3 million, or 8.8%, due primarily to an increase in average loan balances. Interest expense increased $54,000 or 1.2%, primarily due to an increase in average deposit balances.
 
We recorded a loan loss provision in the amount of $900,000 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2014 compared to a provision of $4.9 million during the twelve months ended December 31, 2013.  The lower provision recorded for the twelve months ended December 31, 2014 was driven by a loan loss provision in the amount of $3.6 million on one loan recorded in 2013 which did not recur in 2014.
 
Non-interest income decreased $1.2 million to $8.0 million during the twelve months ended December 31, 2014 as compared to $9.2 million during the twelve months ended December 31, 2013 primarily due to a decrease of $621,000 in gains recognized on the sale of SBA loans during the twelve months ended December 31, 2014 as a result of fewer SBA loan originations during the current period.  In addition, there was a decrease of $245,000 in gains on the sale of investment securities and a decrease of $238,000 in legal settlements compared to December 31, 2013.
 
Non-interest expenses increased $139,000 to $40.6 million during the twelve months ended December 31, 2014 as compared to $40.4 million during the twelve months ended December 31, 2013.  The increase during the twelve months ended December 31, 2014 was primarily due to an increase in salaries and benefits of $3.0 million driven primarily by annual merit increases along with increased staffing levels related to the Company’s growth strategy of adding and relocating stores.  Occupancy related expenses also increased by $889,000 as a result of the growth and relocation strategy.  These increases were offset by a legal settlement of $1.9 million recorded in 2013, a decrease in other real estate owned expenses of $1.4 million, and a decrease of $588,000 in legal expenses.
 
Return on average assets and average equity from continuing operations were 0.23% and 2.51%, respectively, during the twelve months ended December 31, 2014 compared to (0.37)% and (5.07)%, respectively, for the twelve months ended December 31, 2013.

Average Balances and Net Interest Income
 
Historically, our earnings have depended primarily upon Republic’s net interest income, which is the difference between interest earned on interest-earning assets and interest paid on interest-bearing liabilities. Net interest income is affected by changes in the mix of the volume and rates of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities. The following table provides an analysis of net interest income on an annualized basis, setting forth for the periods average assets, liabilities, and shareholders’ equity, interest income earned on interest-earning assets and interest expense on interest-bearing liabilities, average yields earned on interest-earning assets and average rates on interest-bearing liabilities, and Republic’s net interest margin (net interest income as a percentage of average total interest-earning assets). Averages are computed based on daily balances. Non-accrual loans are included in average loans receivable. Yields are adjusted for tax equivalency, using a rate of 35% in 2014, 2013 and 2012.
 
 
 
29
 
 

 
Average Balances and Net Interest Income

   
For the Year Ended
December 31, 2014
   
For the Year Ended
December 31, 2013
   
For the Year Ended
December 31, 2012
 
 
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
Average Balance
   
Interest Income/
Expense
   
Yield/
Rate (1)
   
Average Balance
   
Interest Income/
Expense
   
Yield/
Rate (1)
   
Average Balance
   
Interest Income/
Expense
   
Yield/
Rate (1)
 
Interest-earning assets:
                                                     
Federal funds sold and other interest earning assets
  $ 75,593     $ 187       0.25 %   $ 67,307     $ 185       0.27 %   $ 116,268     $ 300       0.26 %
Investment securities and restricted stock
    217,939       5,613       2.58 %     192,315       4,820       2.51 %     187,446       5,622       3.00 %
Loans receivable
    724,231       35,052       4.84 %     640,233       32,523       5.08 %     609,943       32,734       5.37 %
Total interest-earning assets
    1,017,763       40,852       4.01 %     899,855       37,528       4.17 %     913,657       38,656       4.23 %
Other assets
    50,302                       50,616                       56,149                  
Total assets
  $ 1,068,065                     $ 950,471                     $ 969,806                  
                                                                         
Interest bearing liabilities:
                                                                       
Demand – non-interest bearing
  $ 189,810                     $ 149,125                     $ 136,999                  
Demand – interest bearing
    233,693       888       0.38 %     192,224       825       0.43 %     146,319       796       0.54 %
Money market & savings
    439,484       1,929       0.44 %     417,652       1,786       0.43 %     433,422       2,718       0.63 %
Time deposits
    78,073       719       0.92 %     92,484       867       0.94 %     155,549       1,718       1.10 %
Total deposits
    941,060       3,536       0.38 %     851,485       3,478       0.41 %     872,289       5,232       0.60 %
Total interest bearing deposits
    751,250       3,536       0.47 %     702,360       3,478       0.50 %     735,290       5,232       0.71 %
Other borrowings
    22,530       1,108       4.92 %     22,476       1,112       4.95 %     22,531       1,134       5.03 %
Total interest-bearing liabilities
    773,780       4,644       0.60 %     724,836       4,590       0.63 %     757,821       6,366       0.84 %
Total deposits and other borrowings
    963,590       4,644       0.48 %     873,961       4,590       0.53 %     894,820       6,366       0.71 %
Non-interest bearing other liabilities
    7,084                       7,902                       7,573                  
Shareholders’ equity
    97,391                       68,608                       67,413                  
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
  $ 1,068,065                     $ 950,471                     $ 969,806                  
                                                                         
Net interest income (2)
          $ 36,208                     $ 32,938                     $ 32,290          
Net interest spread
                    3.41 %                     3.54 %                     3.39 %
Net interest margin (2)
                    3.56 %                     3.66 %                     3.53 %
(1) Yields on investments are calculated based on amortized cost.
(2) Net interest income and net interest margin are presented on a tax equivalent basis.  Net interest income has been increased over the financial statement amount by $379, $323, and $396 in 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively, to adjust for tax equivalency.
The tax equivalent net interest margin is calculated by dividing tax equivalent net interest income by average total interest earning assets.
 
 
 
30
 
 
 
Rate/Volume Analysis of Changes in Net Interest Income
 
Net interest income may also be analyzed by segregating the volume and rate components of interest income and interest expense. The following table sets forth an analysis of volume and rate changes in net interest income for the periods indicated. For purposes of this table, changes in interest income and expense are allocated to volume and rate categories based upon the respective changes in average balances and average rates.
 
   
Year ended
December 31, 2014 vs. 2013
   
Year ended
December 31, 2013 vs. 2012
 
   
Changes due to:
         
Changes due to:
       
(dollars in thousands)
 
Average
Volume
   
Average
Rate
   
Total
Change
   
Average Volume
   
Average
Rate
   
Total
Change
 
Interest earned:
                                   
Federal funds sold and other
interest-earning assets
  $ 20     $ (18 )   $ 2     $ (134 )   $ 19     $ (115 )
Securities
    660       133       793       122       (924 )     (802 )
Loans
    4,006       (1,477 )     2,529       1,409       (1,620 )     (211 )
Total interest-earning assets
    4,686       (1,362 )     3,324       1,397       (2,525 )     (1,128 )
                                                 
Interest expense:
                                               
Deposits
                                               
Interest-bearing demand deposits
  $ 158     $ (95 )   $ 63     $ 197     $ (168 )   $ 29  
Money market and savings
    96       47       143       (62 )     (870 )     (932 )
Time deposits
    (133 )     (15 )     (148 )     (591 )     (260 )     (851 )
Total deposit interest expense
    121       (63 )     58       (456 )     (1,298 )     (1,754 )
Other borrowings
    1       (5 )     (4 )     -       (22 )     (22 )
Total interest expense
    122       (68 )     54       (456 )     (1,320 )     (1,776 )
Net interest income
  $ 4,564     $ (1,294 )   $ 3,270     $ 1,853     $ (1,205 )   $ 648  


Net Interest Income and Net Interest Margin

Net interest income, on a fully tax-equivalent basis, for the twelve months of 2014 increased by $3. 3   million , or 9.9%, over the same period in 2013. Interest income on interest-earning assets totaled $40.9 million for the twelve months of 2014, an increase of $3.3 million, compared to the same period in 2013. The increase in interest income earned was the result of an increase in the average balance of loans receivable and investment securities that helped to offset a 24 bp decrease in the yield on loans receivable. Total interest expense for the twelve months of 2014 increased $54,000, or 1.2%, from $4.6 million in 2013 to $4.6 million in 2014. Interest expense on deposits increased by $58,000, or 1.7%, for the twelve months of 2014 versus the same period of 2013. Interest expense on short-term borrowings decreased by $4,000 for the twelve months of 2014 compared to the same period in 2013.

Changes in net interest income are frequently measured by two statistics: net interest rate spread and net interest margin. Net interest rate spread is the difference between the average rate earned on interest-earning assets and the average rate incurred on interest-bearing liabilities. Our net interest rate spread on a fully tax-equivalent basis was 3.41% during the twelve months of 2014 versus 3.54% during the twelve months of 2013. Net interest margin represents the difference between interest income, including net loan fees earned, and interest expense, reflected as a percentage of average interest-earning assets.  For the twelve months of 2014 and 2013, the fully tax-equivalent net interest margin was 3.56% and 3.66%, respectively.  The net interest margin for the year ending December 31, 2014 decreased primarily as a result of a decrease in the yield on loans receivable.
 
 
 
 
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Provision for Loan Losses

We recorded a provision for loan losses in the amount of $900,000 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2014 compared to a $4.9 million provision for the twelve months ended December 31, 2013. The provision for loan losses is charged to operations in an amount necessary to bring the total allowance for loan losses to a level that management believes is adequate to absorb inherent losses in the loan portfolio.

The higher provision recorded during 2013 was primarily driven by a single loan relationship which was originated in 2006 and determined to be impaired during the fourth quarter of 2013 due to delinquency in payments.  The need for a provision in the amount of $3.6 million was the result of a significant reduction in the collateral value supporting the loan based upon a current appraisal.  Management is working closely with this borrower to resolve the delinquency issue and address the collateral deficiency.

In addition, the provision recorded for the twelve months ended December 31, 2014 as compared to the twelve months ended December 31, 2013 decreased due to a reduction in the allowance for loan losses related to non-impaired loans evaluated collectively for impairment.  The decrease associated with loans collectively evaluated for impairment was driven by a reduction in the factor used in the calculation related to historical charge-offs which has declined as a result of lower charge-offs in recent years.

Non-Interest Income

Total noninterest income for the first twelve months of 2014 decreased by $1.2 million, or 13.0%, from the same period in 2013. Gains recognized on the sale of SBA loans were $4.7 million during the twelve months of 2014 compared to $5.3 million in the same period of 2013.  In addition, we also recognized gains of $458,000 on the sale of investment securities during 2014 compared to gains of $703,000 on the sale of investment securities in 2013. We recorded no legal settlements during the twelve month period ended December 31, 2014 compared to $238,000 in the twelve month period ended December 31, 2013.

Non-Interest Expenses

In 2014, noninterest expenses increased by $139,000, or 0.3%, compared to 2013. A explanation of changes in noninterest expenses for certain categories is presented in the following paragraphs.

Salary expenses and employee benefits in 2014 were $20.1 million, an increase of $3.0 million, or 17.7%, compared to 2013 primarily driven by annual merit increases along with increased staffing levels related to our growth strategy of adding and relocating stores.

Occupancy related expenses increased by $889,000, or 15.5%, in 2014 compared to 2013, also as a result of the growth and relocation strategy.

Other real estate owned expenses totaled $1.8 million during 2014, a decrease of $1.4 million, or 43.6%, when compared to 2013 primarily due to lower writedowns in 2014 on assets held in the other real estate owned category.

As previously mentioned, we settled a legal matter totaling $1.9 million in 2013.  This one-time charge of $1.9 million in 2013 was related to an agreement in connection with litigation in which the Company was a defendant. In addition, we had a decrease of $588,000 in legal expenses.  Other minor decreases in regulatory assessments, insurance, and other operating expenses were offset by increases in data processing, advertising, professional fees, and other taxes for the twelve months of 2014 versus the same period last year.
 
 
 
 
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One key measure that management utilizes to monitor progress in controlling overhead expenses is the ratio of annualized net noninterest expenses to average assets. For purposes of this calculation, net noninterest expenses equal noninterest expenses less noninterest income and nonrecurring expense. For the twelve month period ended December 31, 2014, the ratio equaled 3.05% compared to 3.09% for the twelve month period ended December 31, 2013, respectively, reflecting higher average assets related to the Company’s growth strategy of adding and relocating stores.

Another productivity measure utilized by management is the operating efficiency ratio. This ratio expresses the relationship of noninterest expenses to net interest income plus noninterest income. The efficiency ratio equaled 92.5% for the twelve months of 2014, compared to 96.6% for the twelve months of 2013. The decrease for the twelve months ended December 31, 2014 versus December 31, 2013 was due to a 4.8% increase in total revenues.

Provision (Benefit) for Income Taxes

We recorded a benefit for income taxes of $46,000 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2014, compared to a $35,000 benefit for the twelve months ended December 31, 2013.  The $46,000 benefit recorded during the twelve months of 2014 was the net result of an estimated tax provision in the amount of $633,000 calculated on the net profit generated during the period using our normal estimated tax rate, offset by an adjustment to the deferred tax asset valuation allowance in the amount of $679,000.  The effective tax rates for the twelve month periods ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 were 26% and (42%), respectively, excluding an adjustment to the deferred tax asset valuation allowance.

We evaluate the carrying amount of its deferred tax assets on a quarterly basis or more frequently, if necessary, in accordance with the guidance provided in Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Codification Topic 740 (ASC 740), in particular, applying the criteria set forth therein to determine whether it is more likely than not (i.e. a likelihood of more than 50%) that some portion, or all, of the deferred tax asset will not be realized within its life cycle, based on the weight of available evidence.  If management makes a determination based on the available evidence that it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized in future periods, a valuation allowance is calculated and recorded.  These determinations are inherently subjective and dependent upon estimates and judgments concerning management’s evaluation of both positive and negative evidence.

In conducting the deferred tax asset analysis, we believe it is important to consider the unique characteristics of an industry or business.  In particular, characteristics such as business model, level of capital and reserves held by financial institutions and their ability to absorb potential losses are important distinctions to be considered for bank holding companies like the Company. In addition, it is also important to consider that net operating loss carryforwards (“NOLs”) for federal income tax purposes can generally be carried back two years and carried forward for a period of twenty years. In order to realize our deferred tax assets, we must generate sufficient taxable income in such future years.

In assessing the need for a valuation allowance, we carefully weighed both positive and negative evidence currently available.  Judgment is required when considering the relative impact of such evidence. The weight given to the potential effect of positive and negative evidence must be commensurate with the extent to which it can be objectively verified. A cumulative loss in recent years is a significant piece of negative evidence that is difficult to overcome. Based on the analysis of available positive and negative evidence, we determined that a valuation allowance should be recorded as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013.
 
 
 
 
33
 

 
When calculating an estimate for a valuation allowance, we assessed the possible sources of taxable income available under tax law to realize a tax benefit for deductible temporary differences and carry forwards as defined in ASC 740. As a result of cumulative losses in recent years and the slow, ongoing recovery in the current economic environment, we did not use projections of future taxable income, exclusive of reversing temporary timing differences and carryforwards, as a factor. We will exclude future taxable income as a factor until we can show consistent and sustainable profitability.

We did assess tax planning strategies as defined under ASC 740 to determine the amount of a valuation allowance. Strategies reviewed included the sale of investment securities and loans with fair values greater than book values, redeployment of cash and cash equivalents into higher yielding investment options, a switch from tax-exempt to taxable investments and loans, and the election of a decelerated depreciation method for tax purposes on future fixed asset purchases. We believe that these tax planning strategies are (a) prudent and feasible, (b) steps that we would not ordinarily take, but would take to prevent an operating loss or tax credit carryforward from expiring unused, and (c) would result in the realization of existing deferred tax assets. These tax planning strategies, if implemented, would result in taxable income in the first full reporting period after deployment and accelerate the recovery of deferred tax asset balances if faced with the inability to recover those assets or the risk of potential expiration. We believe that these are viable tax planning strategies and appropriately considered in the analysis at this time, but may not align with the strategic direction of the organization today and therefore, has no present intention to implement such strategies.

The net deferred tax asset balance before consideration of a valuation allowance was $19.6 million as of December 31, 2014 and $21.4 million as of December 31, 2013.  After assessment of all available tax planning strategies, we determined that a partial valuation allowance in the amount of $14.7 million as of December 31, 2014 and $15.3 million as of December 31, 2013 should be recorded.

The deferred tax asset will continue to be analyzed on a quarterly basis for changes affecting realizability.  When the determination is made to include projections of future taxable income as a factor in recovering the deferred tax asset, the valuation allowance will be reduced accordingly resulting in a corresponding increase in net income.

Net Income and Net Income per Common Share

Net income for the twelve month period ended December 31, 2014 was $2.4 million, an increase of $5.9 million, compared to a $3.5 million net loss recorded for the twelve month period ended December 31, 2013. The higher net income in 2014 was due to a $4.0 million decrease in the provision for loan losses, a $3.2 million increase in net interest income, partially offset by a $1.2 million decrease in noninterest income and a $139,000 increase in noninterest expenses.

For the twelve month period ended December 31, 2014, basic and fully-diluted net income per common share was $0.07 compared to basic and fully-diluted net loss per common share of $(0.13) for the twelve month period ended December 31, 2013.
Return on Average Assets and Average Equity

Return on average assets (ROA) measures our net income in relation to our total average assets. The ROA for the twelve month periods ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 was 0.23% and (0.37)%, respectively. Return on average equity (ROE) indicates how effectively we can generate net income on the capital invested by our stockholders. ROE is calculated by dividing annualized net income by average stockholders' equity. The ROE for the twelve month period ended December 31, 2014 was 2.51%, compared to (5.07)% for the twelve month period ended December 31, 2013.
 
 

 
 
34
 

Results of Operations

For the year ended December 31, 2013 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2012

We recorded a net loss of $3.5 million, or $(0.13) per diluted share for 2013 compared to net income of $3.6 million, or $0.14 per diluted share, for 2012. The net loss in 2013 was primarily driven by two isolated events.

We recorded a one-time charge in the amount of $1.9 million during the third quarter of 2013 related to a settlement agreement in connection with a lawsuit in which we were a defendant.  The lawsuit arose from an issue that occurred prior to 2007.  We had vigorously contested the claims in the suit.  However, as a result of reversals of certain procedural rulings in the case, we concluded that it would be in our best interest to avoid further litigation by executing a settlement agreement.  The settlement released us from all claims and actions related to the matter.
 
We also recorded a loan loss provision in the amount of $3.6 million during the fourth quarter of 2013 related to a single loan in our portfolio.  This loan was determined to be impaired during the fourth quarter and the provision was a result of a significant reduction in the collateral value supporting the loan based upon a current appraisal.
 
Return on average assets and average equity was (0.37)% and (5.07)%, respectively, for 2013 as compared to 0.37% and 5.36%, respectively, for 2012.  Average equity to average assets was 7.22% for 2013 as compared to 6.95% for 2012.
 
Net Interest Income

The tax equivalent net interest margin increased 13 basis points to 3.66% during 2013, compared to 3.53% during 2012 and the Company’s tax equivalent net interest income increased $648,000, or 2.0%, to $32.9 million for 2013, as compared to $32.3 million for 2012. Yields on interest-bearing assets decreased 6 basis points to 4.17% in 2013 from 4.23% in 2012 and the rates on total deposits and other borrowings decreased 18 basis points to 0.53% in 2013 from 0.71% in 2012.

The Company’s total tax equivalent interest income decreased $1.1 million, or 2.9%, to $37.5 million for 2013 as compared to $38.7 million for 2012.  A 29 basis point decrease in loan yields and a 49 basis point decrease in securities yields were partially offset by a $30.3 million increase in average loans outstanding.

The Company’s total interest expense decreased $1.8 million, or 27.9%, to $4.6 million for 2013, from $6.4 million for 2012 as the Company continues to lower the rates paid on interest bearing deposit accounts. Interest-bearing liabilities averaged $724.8 million for 2013, versus $757.8 million for 2012, a decrease of $33.0 million.  Average deposit balances decreased $20.8 million, as a result of the Company’s retail focused, customer service strategy, which emphasizes the gathering of low-cost core deposits, while reducing its dependence on wholesale funding sources such as brokered and internet-based certificates of deposit.  Internet based certificate of deposit balances decreased by $36.9 million during 2013.  The average rate paid on interest-bearing deposits decreased 21 basis points to 0.50% for 2013, as compared to 0.71% for 2012.  Average time deposit balances declined $63.1 million for 2013 as compared to 2012.  Interest expense paid on time deposit balances decreased $851,000 to $867,000 in 2013 from $1.7 million in 2012.  The maturity and roll-off of higher cost time deposits resulted in the decrease in the average rate paid on time deposits of 16 basis points to 0.94% for 2013 as compared to 1.10% for 2012. Average interest-bearing demand balances increased $45.9 million for 2013 as compared to 2012.  Money market and savings interest expense decreased $932,000 to $1.8 million in 2013 from $2.7 million in 2012, primarily due to a reduction in rates paid on money market and savings deposits.  Accordingly, rates on total interest-bearing liabilities decreased 21 basis points in 2013 when compared to 2012.
 
 
 
35
 
 
 
Interest expense on other borrowings decreased $22,000 to $1.1 million in 2013.  Average other borrowings, consisting mainly of $22.5 million of trust preferred securities outstanding, decreased $55,000, or 0.2%, between the respective periods.
 
Provision for Loan Losses

  The provision for loan losses is charged to operations in an amount necessary to bring the total allowance for loan losses to a level that management believes is adequate to absorb inherent losses in the loan portfolio. The Company recorded a $4.9 million provision for loan losses during 2013 compared to $1.4 million for the comparable prior year period.

The increase in the provision recorded during 2013 was primarily driven by a single loan relationship which was originated in 2006 and determined to be impaired during the fourth quarter of 2013 due to delinquency in payments.  The need for a provision in the amount of $3.6 million was the result of a significant reduction in the collateral value supporting the loan based upon a current appraisal.  Management is working closely with this borrower to resolve the delinquency issue and address the collateral deficiency.

The lower provision recorded during 2012 was mainly attributable to the significant improvement in credit quality in the loan portfolio, along with a reduction in the component of the allowance for loan losses related to loans collectively evaluated for impairment caused by an adjustment to the analysis of historical losses during the period.  See disclosure under “Credit Quality” and “Allowance for Loan Losses” for further discussion.
 
Non-Interest Income
 
Total non-interest income increased to $9.2 million for 2013 compared to $8.8 million for 2012, primarily due to the growth in fees earned on the servicing of SBA loans.
 
Non-Interest Expenses
 
Total non-interest expenses increased $4.5 million, or 12.6%, to $40.4 million for 2013 compared to $35.9 million for 2012 primarily as a result of higher expenses related to foreclosed real estate during 2013 and a one-time charge related to a settlement agreement in connection with litigation in which the Company was a defendant.  Carrying costs and write downs of other real estate owned amounted to $3.2 million in 2013 compared to $763,000 in 2012.  The increase was primarily driven by the writedown in value of one property as a result of a current appraisal.  The legal settlement of $1.9 million was executed to avoid further litigation on a matter stemming from an issue associated with a lending relationship that arose several years ago.  The settlement released the Company from all claims and actions related to this matter.
 
 

 
 
36
 

Provision (Benefit) for Income Taxes
 
The Company recorded a benefit for income taxes in the amount of $35,000 for the twelve month period ended December 31, 2013, compared to a benefit for income taxes of $144,000 for the twelve month period ended December 31, 2012.  The $35,000 benefit recorded in 2013 was the result of a tax benefit in the amount of $1.5 million calculated on the net loss generated during the period using the Company’s normal estimated tax rates offset by an adjustment to the deferred tax asset valuation allowance in the amount of $1.4 million.  The effective tax rate was (42%) for 2013 and 27% for 2012, excluding the adjustment to the deferred tax asset valuation allowance.

For information regarding the evaluation, calculation, and assessment undertaken by the Company in connection with its deferred tax asset, see the discussion under the heading “- Results of Operations – For the year ended December 31, 2014 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2013 – Provision (Benefit) for Income Taxes” above.

The net deferred tax asset balance before consideration of a valuation allowance was $21.4 million as of December 31, 2013 and $17.5 million as of December 31, 2012.  The tax planning strategies assessed resulted in the projected realization of approximately $6.1 million in tax assets which can be considered more likely than not to be realized as of December 31, 2013 and $3.6 million as of December 31, 2012. Accordingly, the Company recorded a partial valuation allowance related to the deferred tax asset balance in the amount of $15.3 million as of December 31, 2013 and $13.9 million as of December 31, 2012.

Financial Condition

December 31, 2014 compared to December 31, 2013

Total assets increased by $252.9 million to $1.2 billion at December 31, 2014, compared to $961.7 million at December 31, 2013.

Cash and Cash Equivalents
 
Cash and due from banks and interest bearing deposits comprise this category, which consists of our most liquid assets. The aggregate amount in these two categories increased by $92.9 million to $128.8 million at December 31, 2014, from $35.9 million at December 31, 2013. The increase was primarily caused by a growth in deposit balances during 2014 along with the sale of common stock in a private placement offering during the second quarter of 2014.

  Loans Held for Sale

Loans held for sale are comprised of loans guaranteed by the U.S. Small Business Administration (“SBA”) which we usually originate with the intention of selling in the future.  Total SBA loans held for sale were $1.7 million at December 31, 2014.  The decrease of $3.2 million was primarily driven by the timing of settlement on the sale of two loans which closed shortly after year end in 2013.  Loans held for sale, as a percentage of our total assets, were less than 1% at December 31, 2014.

Loans Receivable

The loan portfolio represents our largest asset category and is our most significant source of interest income. Our lending strategy is focused on small and medium sized businesses and professionals that seek highly personalized banking services. The loan portfolio consists of secured and unsecured commercial loans including commercial real estate, construction loans, residential mortgages, automobile loans, home improvement loans, home equity loans and lines of credit, overdraft lines of credit, and others. Commercial loans typically range between $250,000 and $5,000,000 but customers may borrow significantly larger amounts up to our legal lending limit to a customer, which was approximately $19.9 million at December 31, 2014. Loans made to one individual customer, even if secured by different collateral, are aggregated for purposes of the lending limit. The aggregate amount of those relationships that exceeded $13.3 million at December 31, 2014, was $14.4 million. A $13.3 million threshold, which amounts to approximately 10% of total regulatory capital, reflects an additional internal monitoring guideline.
 
 
 
37
 
 

 
 Loans increased $102.6 million, or 15%, to $781.9 million at December 31, 2014, versus $679.3 million at December 31, 2013.  This growth was the result of an increase in loan demand in the commercial real estate, owner occupied real estate, commercial and industrial, consumer, and construction and land development categories driven by the successful execution of our relationship banking strategy which focuses on customer service.

Investment Securities
 
Investment securities considered available-for-sale are investments that may be sold in response to changing market and interest rate conditions, and for liquidity and other purposes.  Our investment securities classified as available-for-sale consist primarily of U.S. Government agency collateralized mortgage obligations (CMO), agency mortgage-backed securities (MBS), municipal securities, corporate bonds, asset-backed securities (ABS), and pooled trust preferred securities (CDO).  Available-for-sale securities totaled $185.4 million at December 31, 2014, compared to $204.9 million at December 31, 2013. The decrease was primarily due to the transfer of $70.1 million of available-for-sale securities to held-to-maturity in addition to sales and pay downs of securities totaling $31.5 million, partially offset by the purchase of available-for-sale securities totaling $78.8 million during 2014.  At December 31, 2014, the portfolio had a net unrealized gain of $129,000 compared to a net unrealized loss of $4.4 million at December 31, 2013.  The change in value of the investment portfolio was driven by a decrease in market interest rates which drove an increase in value of the bonds held in our portfolio during 2014.

Investment securities held-to-maturity are investments for which there is the intent and ability to hold the investment to maturity. These investments are carried at amortized cost. The held-to-maturity portfolio consists primarily of U.S. Government agency collateralized mortgage obligations. The fair value of securities held-to-maturity totaled $68.3 million and $21,000 at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively. The increase was due to the transfer of $70.1 million of available for sale securities to held-to-maturity, partially offset by pay downs of securities totaling $2.3 million.

ASC 320 “Investments – Debt and Equity Securities” requires an entity to determine how to classify a security at the time of acquisition. The appropriateness of the original classification should be reassessed at each reporting period.  The transfer of investment securities from available-for-sale to held-to maturity category during the quarter ended September 30, 2014 was completed after an extensive analysis of the characteristics of all securities held in the portfolio, in addition to a review of our liquidity position under multiple scenarios including varying interest rate environments.  Twelve of the thirteen securities transferred were GNMA collateralized mortgage obligations which are backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government.  The other bond was a collateralized mortgage obligation issued by FNMA. Bonds issued by GNMA receive favorable risk rating when calculating regulatory risk-based capital ratios. In addition, both GNMA and FNMA securities are often pledged as collateral as required to hold certain government deposits and are accepted as collateral as a result of the high quality and low-risk nature of these bonds.
 
 
 
 
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After completion of these analyses and consideration of the factors mentioned above, management determined that it had the intent and ability to hold specific securities until maturity and it was appropriate to transfer them to the held-to-maturity category during the third quarter of 2014.

The fair value of the securities transferred to the held-to-maturity category was $70.1 million.  The book value of the securities on the date of transfer was $71.3 million.  The unrealized holding gain or loss on each individual security calculated at the time of transfer was reported as a component of shareholders’ equity in the accumulated other comprehensive income account and will be amortized as an adjustment to yield over the remaining life of each security.

Restricted Stock

  Restricted stock, which represents a required investment in the capital stock of correspondent banks related to available credit facilities, is carried at cost as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013.  As of those dates, restricted stock consisted of investments in the capital stock of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh (“FHLB”) and Atlantic Central Bankers Bank (“ACBB”).  In 2012, the FHLB repurchased 29% of Republic’s total restricted stock outstanding and issued its first dividend payments since 2008. During 2013, FHLB repurchased all remaining excess restricted stock outstanding and continued with the quarterly payment of dividends.

At December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the investment in FHLB of Pittsburgh stock totaled $1.0 million and $1.4 million, respectively.  At both December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, ACBB stock totaled $143,000.

Other Real Estate Owned
 
 The balance of other real estate owned decreased to $3.7 million at December 31, 2014 from $4.1 million at December 31, 2013, primarily due to writedowns in the amount of $1.1 million on existing foreclosed properties during 2014 and sales during 2014 totaling $197,000, partially offset by transfers from loans receivable totaling $1.0 million.

Deposits
 
Deposits, which include non-interest and interest-bearing demand deposits, money market, savings and time deposits, are Republic’s major source of funding. Deposits are generally solicited from the Company’s market area through the offering of a variety of products to attract and retain customers, with a primary focus on multi-product relationships.
 
Total deposits increased by $202.7 million to $1.1 billion at December 31, 2014, from $869.5 million at December 31, 2013.  The increase was primarily the result of a $120.0 million increase in demand deposits and an $86.2 million increase in money market and savings deposits, which reflects the success of our retail-focused strategy of gathering low-cost core deposits.  Republic has continued to focus on its efforts to gather low-cost, core deposits by successfully executing its relationship banking model which is based upon high levels of customer service. In addition, the Company has begun to implement its relocation and expansion strategy through the opening of additional stores. This strategy has also allowed Republic to nearly eliminate its dependence on the more volatile sources of funding in brokered and public fund certificates of deposit.


 
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Shareholders’ Equity
 
Total shareholders’ equity increased $49.9 million to $112.8 million at December 31, 2014, compared to $62.9 million at December 31, 2013, primarily due to $44.9 million in net proceeds received from the sale of common stock in a private placement offering.  To support our growth and expansion strategy, we sold 11.8 million shares of common stock at a price of $3.80 per share during the second quarter of 2014. In addition, there was also a reduction in accumulated other comprehensive losses associated with unrealized losses in the investment securities portfolio resulting in an increase in shareholder’s equity of $2.2 million. The shift in market value of the securities portfolio resulted in accumulated other comprehensive losses of $632,000 at December 31, 2014 compared to accumulated other comprehensive losses of $2.8 million at December 31, 2013 which was primarily driven by a decrease in market interest rates which drove an increase in value of the bonds held in our portfolio and the transfer of available-for-sale securities to held-to-maturity. We also recognized net income of $2.4 million during 2014.

Investment Securities Portfolio
 
Republic’s investment securities portfolio is intended to provide liquidity and contribute to earnings while diversifying credit risk. We attempt to maximize earnings while minimizing our exposure to interest rate risk. The securities portfolio consists primarily of U.S. Government agency collateralized mortgage obligations (CMO), agency mortgage-backed securities (MBS), corporate bonds, municipal securities, asset-backed securities (ABS), and pooled trust preferred securities (CDO). Our ALCO committee monitors and reviews all security purchases.

A summary of investment securities available-for-sale and investment securities held-to-maturity at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 is as follows:

   
At December 31,
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
Available for sale
                 
Collateralized mortgage obligations
  $ 98,626     $ 127,242     $ 97,959  
Mortgage-backed securities
    13,271       15,669       20,626  
Municipal securities
    15,784       9,737       11,150  
Corporate bonds
    33,840       32,174       32,231  
Asset-backed securities
    18,353       19,089       19,785  
Trust preferred securities
    5,261       5,277       5,785  
Other securities
    115       115       131  
Total amortized cost of securities
  $ 185,250     $ 209,303     $ 187,667  
                         
Total fair value of investment securities
  $ 185,379     $ 204,891     $ 189,259  
                         
Held to maturity
                       
U.S. Government Agencies
  $ 1     $ 1     $ 1  
Collateralized mortgage obligations
    67,845       0       0  
Other securities
    20       20       66  
Total amortized cost of securities
  $ 67,866     $ 21     $ 67  
                         
Total fair value of investment securities
  $ 68,253     $ 21     $ 69  

No single issuer of securities (excluding government agencies) in the portfolio exceeded more than 10% of shareholders’ equity at December 31, 2014 with the exception of corporate bonds issued by Morgan Stanley.  The Morgan Stanley bonds had a book value of $12.0 million and a market value of $12.2 million at December 31, 2014. No single issuer of securities (excluding government agencies) in the portfolio exceeded more than 10% of shareholders’ equity at December 31, 2013 with the exception of corporate bonds issued by Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley. The Goldman Sachs bonds had a book value of $10.3 million and a market value of $10.8 million at December 31, 2013.  The Morgan Stanley bonds had a book value of $10.0 million and a market value of $10.3 million at December 31, 2013.
 
 
 
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At December 31, 2014, the investment portfolio included twenty-eight municipal securities with a total market value of $16.1 million.  The securities are reviewed quarterly for impairment.  Research on each issuer is completed to assess the financial stability of the municipal entity.  The largest geographic concentration was in Pennsylvania and New Jersey where twenty-one municipal securities had a market value of $11.6 million. As of December 31, 2014, management found no evidence of other than temporary impairment (“OTTI”) on any of the municipal securities held in the investment securities portfolio.

At December 31, 2014, the portfolio included two asset-backed securities with a total market value of $18.5 million, the majority of which (97%) is guaranteed by the U.S. Dept. of Education. At December 31, 2014, the portfolio also included pooled trust preferred securities (CDOs) with a market value of $3.2 million. The unrealized loss for the CDOs was due to the secondary market for such securities becoming inactive and is considered temporary.

The following table presents the maturity distribution and weighted average yield by holding type and year of maturity of our investment securities portfolio at December 31, 2014.

   
December 31, 2014
 
   
Within One Year
   
One to Five Years
   
Five to Ten Years
   
Past Ten Years
   
Total
 
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
Amount
   
Yield
   
Amount
   
Yield
   
Amount
   
Yield
   
Amount
   
Yield
   
Fair value
   
Cost
   
Yield
 
Available for Sale
                                                                 
Collateralized  mortgage obligations
  $ -        -     $ -        -     $ -        -     $ 99,222       2.48 %   $ 99,222     $ 98,626       2.48 %
Mortgage-backed securities
     -                -        -        29       2.40 %      13,773       3.17 %      13,802        13,271       3.16 %
Municipal securities
    -       -       -       -       9,969       2.61 %     6,138       3.75 %     16,107       15,784       3.04 %
Corporate bonds
    7,040       2.41 %     17,281       2.76 %     7,101       4.06 %     3,005       3.67 %     34,427       33,840       3.02 %
Asset-backed securities
    -       -       -       -       10,434       1.93 %     8,071       0.99 %     18,505       18,353       1.52 %
Trust Preferred securities
     -        -        -        -       -       -        3,193       0.00 %      3,193        5,261       0.00 %
Other securities
    -       -       123       1.10 %     -       -       -       -       123       115       1.10 %
Total AFS securities
  $ 7,040       2.41 %   $ 17,404       2.75 %   $ 27,533       2.73 %   $ 133,402       2.49 %   $ 185,379     $ 185,250       2.53 %
                                                                                         
Held to Maturity
                                                                                       
U.S. Government Agencies
  $ -        -     $ 1       1.47 %   $ -        -     $ -        -     $ 1     $ 1       1.47 %
Collateralized  mortgage obligations
     -        -        -        -        -        -        68,232       2.23 %      68,232        67,845       2.23 %
Other securities
    -       -       20       0.00 %     -       -       -       -       20       20       0.00 %
Total HTM securities
  $ -       -     $ 21       0.07 %   $ -       -     $ 68,232       2.23 %   $ 68,253     $ 67,866       2.24 %


Fair Value of Financial Instruments

Management uses its best judgment in estimating the fair value of the Company’s financial instruments; however, there are inherent weaknesses in any estimation technique.  Therefore, for substantially all financial instruments, the fair value estimates herein are not necessarily indicative of the amounts the Company could have realized in a sale transaction on the dates indicated.  The estimated fair value amounts have been measured as of their respective year-ends and have not been re-evaluated or updated for purposes of these financial statements subsequent to those respective dates.  As such, the estimated fair values of these financial instruments subsequent to the respective reporting dates may be different than the amounts reported at each year-end.
 
 
 
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The Company follows the guidance issued under ASC 820, Fair Value Measurement , which defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value under GAAP, and identifies required disclosures on fair value measurements.
 
ASC 820 establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation methods 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 under ASC 820 are as follows:

Level 1 : Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities.
 
Level 2 : Quoted prices in markets that are not active, or inputs that are observable either directly or indirectly, 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 with little or no market activity).
 
An asset’s or liability’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement.

The fair value of securities available for sale (carried at fair value) and held to maturity (carried at amortized cost) are determined by obtaining quoted market prices on nationally recognized securities exchanges (Level 1), or matrix pricing (Level 2), which is a mathematical technique used widely in the industry to value debt securities without relying exclusively on quoted market prices for the specific securities but rather by relying on the securities’ relationship to other benchmark quoted prices.  For certain securities, which are not traded in active markets or are subject to transfer restrictions, valuations are adjusted to reflect illiquidity and/or non-transferability, and such adjustments are generally based on available market evidence (Level 3).  In the absence of such evidence, management’s best estimate is used.  Management’s best estimate consists of both internal and external support on certain Level 3 investments.  Internal cash flow models using a present value formula that includes assumptions market participants would use along with indicative exit pricing obtained from broker/dealers (where available) were used to support fair values of certain Level 3 investments.
 
The types of instruments valued on matrix pricing in active markets include all of the U.S. government and agency securities, municipal obligations and corporate bonds. Such instruments are generally classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. As required by ASC 820, we do not adjust the matrix pricing for such instruments.

Level 3 is for positions that are not traded in active markets or are subject to transfer restrictions, and may be adjusted to reflect illiquidity and/or non-transferability, with such adjustment generally based on available market evidence. In the absence of such evidence, management’s best estimate is used. Subsequent to inception, management only changes Level 3 inputs and assumptions when corroborated by evidence such as transactions in similar instruments, completed or pending third-party transactions in the underlying investment or comparable entities, subsequent rounds of financing, recapitalizations and other transactions across the capital structure, offerings in the equity or debt markets, and changes in financial ratios or cash flows. The Level 3 investment securities currently held in the company’s portfolio are classified as available for sale and consist of various issues of trust preferred securities and a single corporate bond.
 
 
 
 
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The trust preferred securities are pools of similar securities that are grouped into an asset structure commonly referred to as collateralized debt obligations (“CDOs”) which consist of the debt instruments of various banks, diversified by the number of participants in the security as well as geographically.   These securities are performing according to terms, however the secondary market for such securities has become inactive, and such securities are therefore classified as Level 3 securities. The fair value analysis does not reflect or represent the actual terms or prices at which any party could purchase the securities. There is currently no secondary market for the securities and there can be no assurance that any secondary market for the securities will develop.

The following table presents a reconciliation of the securities available for sale measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) for the year ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012:
 
   
Year Ended
December 31, 2014
   
Year Ended
December 31, 2013
   
Year Ended
December 31, 2012
 
Level 3 Investments Only
(dollars in thousands)
 
Trust Preferred Securities
   
Corporate Bonds
   
Trust Preferred Securities
   
Corporate Bonds
   
Trust Preferred Securities
   
Corporate Bonds
 
Balance, January 1,
  $ 2,850     $ 3,006     $ 3,187     $ 3,007     $ 3,410     $ 3,004  
Security transferred to Level 3 measurement
    -       -       -       -       -       -  
Unrealized gains (losses)
    360       (1 )     171       (1 )     401       3  
Paydowns
    (10 )     -       (508 )     -       (590 )     -  
Impairment charges on Level 3
    (7 )     -       -       -       (34 )     -  
Balance, December 31,
  $ 3,193     $ 3,005     $ 2,850     $ 3,006     $ 3,187     $ 3,007  

An independent, third party pricing service is used to estimate the current fair market value of each CDO held in the investment securities portfolio. The calculations used to determine fair value are based on the attributes of the trust preferred securities, the financial condition of the issuers of the trust preferred securities, and market based assumptions. The INTEX CDO Deal Model Library was utilized to obtain information regarding the attributes of each security and its specific collateral as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013. Financial information on the issuers was also obtained from Bloomberg, the FDIC and SNL Financial. Both published and unpublished industry sources were utilized in estimating fair value. Such information includes loan prepayment speed assumptions, discount rates, default rates, and loss severity percentages.  A detailed explanation of the assumptions used to estimate the fair market value of the CDOs can be found in Note 14 “Fair Value Measurements and Fair Values of Financial Investments” to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

The fair market valuation for each CDO was determined based on discounted cash flow analyses. The cash flows are primarily dependent on the estimated speeds at which the trust preferred securities are expected to prepay, the estimated rates at which the trust preferred securities are expected to defer payments, the estimated rates at which the trust preferred securities are expected to default, and the severity of the losses on securities that do default. 
 
 
 
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Increases (decreases) in actual or expected issuer defaults tend to decrease (increase) the fair value of the Company’s senior and mezzanine tranches of CDOs.  The values of the Company’s mezzanine tranches of CDOs are also affected by expected future interest rates.  However, due to the structure of each security, timing of cash flows, and secondary effects on the financial performance of the underlying issuers, the effects of changes in future interest rates on the fair value of the Company’s holdings are not quantifiably estimable.

Also included in Level 3 investment securities classified as available for sale is a single-issuer corporate bond transferred from Level 2 in 2010 since the bond is not actively traded.  Impairment would depend on the repayment ability of the underlying issuer, which is assessed through a detailed quarterly review of the issuer’s financial statements.  The issuer is a “well capitalized” financial institution as defined by federal banking regulations and has demonstrated the ability to raise additional capital, when necessary, through the public capital markets.  The fair value of this corporate bond is estimated by obtaining a price of a comparable floating rate debt instrument through Bloomberg.

Loan Portfolio
 
Our loan portfolio consists of secured and unsecured commercial loans including commercial real estate loans, construction and land development loans, commercial and industrial loans, owner occupied real estate loans, consumer and other loans, and residential mortgages. Commercial loans are primarily secured term loans made to small to medium-sized businesses and professionals for working capital, asset acquisition and other purposes. Commercial loans are originated as either fixed or variable rate loans with typical terms of 1 to 5 years. Republic’s commercial loans typically range between $250,000 and $5.0 million, but customers may borrow significantly larger amounts up to Republic’s legal lending limit of approximately $19.9 million at December 31, 2014. Individual customers may have several loans often secured by different collateral. Such relationships in excess of $13.3 million (an internal monitoring guideline which approximates 10% of capital and reserves) at December 31, 2014, amounted to $14.4 million. There were no loans in excess of the legal lending limit at December 31, 2014.
 
The majority of loans outstanding are with borrowers in our marketplace, Philadelphia and surrounding suburbs, including southern New Jersey. In addition, we have loans to customers whose assets and businesses are concentrated in real estate. Repayment of our loans is in part dependent upon general economic conditions affecting our market place and specific industries. We evaluate each customer’s credit worthiness on a case-by-case basis. The amount of collateral obtained is based on management’s credit evaluation of the customer. Collateral varies but primarily includes residential, commercial and income-producing properties.

At December 31, 2014, we had loan concentrations exceeding 10% of total loans for credits extended to lessors of nonresidential real estate in the aggregate amount of $204.6 million, which represented 26.2% of gross loans receivable and lessors of residential real estate in the aggregate amount of $128.8 million, which represented 16.5% of gross loans receivable.  Loan concentrations are considered to exist when amounts are loaned to multiple numbers of borrowers engaged in similar activities that management believes would cause them to be similarly impacted by economic or other conditions. At December 31, 2014, we had no foreign loans outstanding.

Total loans, net of deferred loan fees, increased by $102.6 million, or 15.1%, to $781.9 million at December 31, 2014, from $679.3 million at December 31, 2013, as we saw a positive trend in quality loan demand during 2014 and continued success in our relationship banking model. 


 
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The following table sets forth gross loans by major categories for the periods indicated:

   
At December 31,
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
2014
   
2013
   
2012
   
2011
   
2010
 
                               
Commercial real estate
  $ 379,259     $ 342,794     $ 335,561     $ 344,377     $ 374,935  
Construction and land development
    29,861       23,977       26,659       35,061       73,795  
Commercial and industrial
    145,113       118,209       103,768       87,668       78,428  
Owner occupied real estate
    188,025       160,229       126,242       102,777       70,833  
Consumer and other
    39,713       31,981       23,449       16,683       17,808  
Residential mortgage
    408       2,359       2,442       3,150       5,026  
Total loans
  $ 782,379     $ 679,549     $ 618,121     $ 589,716     $ 620,825  
                                         
Deferred loan fees
    439       238       220       224       470  
Total loans, net of deferred loan    fees
  $ 781,940     $ 679,311     $ 617,901     $ 589,492     $ 620,355  

Loan Maturity and Interest Rate Sensitivity

The amount of loans outstanding by category as of the dates indicated, which are due in: (i) one year or less, (ii) more than one year through five years, and (iii) over five years, is shown in the following table.  Loan balances are also categorized according to their sensitivity to changes in interest rates.
 
 
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
 
Commercial Real Estate
   
Construction and Land Development
   
Commercial and Industrial
   
Owner Occupied Real Estate
   
 
Consumer and Other
   
 
Residential Mortgage
   
 
 
Total
 
Fixed rate:
 
1 year or less
  $ 23,073     $ 11,132     $ 13,355     $ 8,977     $ 237     $ -     $ 56,774  
1-5 years
    213,490       1,903       27,758       69,232       199       -       312,582  
After 5 years
    76,416       -       18,719       58,644       8,804       408       162,991  
Total fixed rate
    312,979       13,035       59,832       136,853       9,240       408       532,347  
                                                         
Adjustable rate:
                                                       
1 year or less
  $ 30,622     $ 2,999     $ 57,186     $ 1,648     $ 381     $ -     $ 92,836  
1-5 years
    21,048       3,521       15,332       6,899       2,259       -       49,059  
After 5 years
    14,610       10,306       12,763       42,625       27,833       -       108,137  
Total adjustable rate
    66,280       16,826       85,281       51,172       30,473       -       250,032  
                                                         
Total
  $ 379,259     $ 29,861     $ 145,113     $ 188,025     $ 39,713     $ 408     $ 782,379  

In the ordinary course of business, loans maturing within one year may be renewed, in whole or in part, as to principal amount, and at interest rates prevailing at the date of renewal.  At December 31, 2014, 68.0% of total loans were fixed rate compared to 65.9% at December 31, 2013.

Credit Quality

Republic’s written lending policies require specific underwriting, loan documentation and credit analysis standards to be met prior to funding, with independent credit department approval for the majority of new loan balances.  A committee consisting of senior management and certain members of the Board of Directors oversees the loan approval process to monitor that proper standards are maintained, while approving the majority of commercial loans.
 
 
 
 
45
 

 
Loans, including impaired loans, are generally classified as non-accrual if they are past due as to maturity or payment of interest or principal for a period of more than 90 days, unless such loans are well-secured and in the process of collection. Loans that are on a current payment status or past due less than 90 days may also be classified as non-accrual if repayment of principal and/or interest in full is in doubt.  Loans may be returned to accrual status when all principal and interest amounts contractually due are reasonably assured of repayment within an acceptable period of time, and there is a sustained period of repayment performance by the borrower, in accordance with the contractual terms.

While a loan is classified as non-accrual, collections of interest and principal are generally applied as a reduction to principal outstanding. When the future collectability of the recorded loan balance is expected, interest income may be recognized on a cash basis. For non-accrual loans, which have been partially charged off, recognition of interest on a cash basis is limited to that which would have been recognized on the recorded loan balance at the contractual interest rate. Cash interest receipts in excess of that amount are recorded as recoveries to the allowance for loan losses until prior charge-offs have been fully recovered.
 
The following summary shows information concerning loan delinquency and non-performing assets at the dates indicated:
 
   
At December 31,
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
2014
   
2013
   
2012
   
2011
   
2010
 
Loans accruing, but past due 90 days or more
  $ -     $ -     $ 202     $ 748     $ -  
Non-accrual loans:
                                       
Commercial real estate
    13,979       1,104       7,987       1,880       14,955  
Construction and land development
    377       1,618       1,342       4,022       18,970  
Commercial and industrial
    4,349       6,837       4,693       3,925       4,500  
Owner occupied real estate
    2,306       205       968       -       1,061  
Consumer and other
    429       656       856       737       506  
Residential mortgage
    -       -       -       -       -  
Total non-accrual loans
    21,440       10,420       15,846       10,564       39,992  
Total non-performing loans (1)
    21,440       10,420       16,048       11,312       39,992  
Other real estate owned
    3,715       4,059       8,912       6,479       15,237  
Total non-performing assets (1)
  $ 25,155     $ 14,479     $ 24,960     $ 17,791     $ 55,229  
                                         
Non-performing loans as a percentage of total loans, net of unearned income (1)
    2.74 %     1.53 %     2.60 %     1.92 %     6.45 %
Non-performing assets as a percentage of total assets
    2.07 %     1.51 %     2.52 %     1.70 %     6.30 %
 
(1) Non-performing loans are comprised of (i) loans that are on non-accrual basis and (ii) accruing loans that are 90 days or more past due. Non-performing assets are composed of non-performing loans and other real estate owned.

Problem loans can consist of loans that are performing, but for which potential credit problems of the borrowers have caused management to have serious doubts as to the ability of such borrowers to continue to comply with present repayment terms.  At December 31, 2014, all identified problem loans included in the preceding table are internally classified and have been evaluated for a specific reserve allocation in the allowance for loan losses (see “Allowance for Loan Losses”).

Non-performing assets increased by $10.7 million, or 74%, to $25.2 million at December 31, 2014, compared to $14.5 million at December 31, 2013. This increase was primarily driven by one loan in the amount of $13.0 million that was transferred to non-accrual status during the second quarter of 2014. A reserve for this loan was recorded in the fourth quarter of 2013 when it was initially downgraded to impaired status.
 
 
 
46
 

 
The following summary shows the impact on interest income of non-accrual loans, subsequent to being placed on non-accrual for the periods indicated:

   
For the Year Ended December 31,
 
   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
   
2011
   
2010
 
Interest income that would have been recorded had the loans been in accordance with their original terms
  $ 980,000     $ 488,000     $ 699,000     $ 583,000     $ 2,405,000  
 
Interest income included in net income
  $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -  

 
Allowance for Loan Losses
 
The allowance for loan losses is a valuation allowance for probable losses inherent in the loan portfolio. The Company evaluates the need to establish an allowance against loan losses on a quarterly basis. When an increase in this allowance is necessary, a provision for loan losses is charged to earnings. The allowance for loan losses consists of three components. The first component is allocated to individually evaluated loans found to be impaired and is calculated in accordance with ASC 310 Receivables . The second component is allocated to all other loans that are not individually identified as impaired pursuant to ASC 310-10 (“non-impaired loans”). This component is calculated for all non-impaired loans on a collective basis in accordance with ASC 450 Contingencies . The third component is an unallocated allowance to account for a level of imprecision in management’s estimation process.
 
The Company evaluates loans for impairment and potential charge-off on a quarterly basis.  Management regularly monitors the condition of borrowers and assesses both internal and external factors in determining whether any loan relationships have deteriorated. Any loan rated as substandard or lower will have an individual collateral evaluation analysis prepared to determine if a deficiency exists. We first evaluate the primary repayment source.  If the primary repayment source is seriously inadequate and unlikely to repay the debt, we then look to the secondary and/or tertiary repayment sources. Secondary sources are conservatively reviewed for liquidation values. Updated appraisals and financial data are obtained to substantiate current values.  If the reviewed sources are deemed to be inadequate to cover the outstanding principal and any costs associated with the resolution of the troubled loan, an estimate of the deficient amount will be calculated and a specific allocation of loan loss reserve is recorded.
 
Factors considered in the calculation of the allowance for non-impaired loans include several qualitative and quantitative factors such as historical loss experience, trends in delinquency and nonperforming loan balances, changes in risk composition and underwriting standards, experience and ability of management, and general economic conditions along with other external factors. Historical loss experience is analyzed by reviewing charge-offs over a three year period to determine loss rates consistent with the loan categories depicted in the allowance for loan loss table below.
 
Prior to the first quarter of 2012, historical losses for all commercial loans secured by real estate were aggregated into one group for purposes of calculating a loss rate for loans collectively evaluated for impairment in the allowance for loan loss calculation. During the first quarter of 2012, management elected to disaggregate this grouping into five separate categories based on distinct risk factors to provide a more detailed estimate for the allowance calculation. This change resulted in a reduction of approximately $2.6 million in the estimated allowance required for non-impaired loans in the first quarter of 2012 due to the application of lower loss rates to a larger segment of the commercial real estate portfolio with a lower risk profile.
 
 
 
47
 
 
 
The factors supporting the allowance for loan losses do not diminish the fact that the entire allowance for loan losses is available to absorb losses in the loan portfolio and related commitment portfolio, respectively. The Company’s principal focus, therefore, is on the adequacy of the total allowance for loan losses. The allowance for loan losses is subject to review by banking regulators. The Company’s primary bank regulators regularly conduct examinations of the allowance for loan losses and make assessments regarding the adequacy and the methodology employed in their determination.
 
A detailed analysis of our allowance for loan losses for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011 and 2010 is as follows:
 
   
For the Year Ended December 31,
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
2014
   
2013
   
2012
   
2011
   
2010
 
                               
Balance at beginning of period
  $ 12,263     $ 9,542     $ 12,050     $ 11,444     $ 12,841  
Charge-offs:
                                       
Commercial real estate
    364       1,291       1,582       8,783       3,823  
Construction and land development
    303       60       1,004       3,719       13,835  
Commercial and industrial
    1,185       611       1,304       1,088       1,468  
Owner occupied real estate
    150       320       -       1,838       -  
Consumer and other
    10       75       102       41       42  
Residential mortgage
    -       -       -       -       -  
Total charge-offs
    2,012       2,357       3,992       15,469       19,168  
Recoveries:
                                       
Commercial real estate
    5       54       -       44       437  
Construction and land development
    214       -       105       10       621  
Commercial and industrial
    166       63       -       -       110  
Owner occupied real estate
    -       -       -       15       -  
Consumer and other
    -       26       29       40       3  
Residential mortgage
    -       -       -       -       -  
Total recoveries
    385       143       134       109       1,171  
Net charge-offs
    1,627       2,214       3,858       15,360       17,997  
Provision for loan losses
    900       4,935       1,350       15,966       16,600  
Balance at end of period
  $ 11,536     $ 12,263     $ 9,542     $ 12,050     $ 11,444  
                                         
Average loans outstanding (1)
  $ 724,231     $ 640,233     $ 609,943     $ 630,309     $ 659,882  
 
                               
As a percent of average loans: (1)
                             
Net charge-offs
    0.22 %     0.35 %     0.63 %     2.44 %     2.73 %
Provision for loan losses
    0.12 %     0.77 %     0.22 %     2.53 %     2.52 %
Allowance for loan losses
    1.59 %     1.92 %     1.56 %     1.91 %     1.73 %
                                         
Allowance for loan losses to:
                                       
Total loans, net of unearned income
    1.48 %     1.81 %     1.54 %     2.04 %     1.84 %
Total non-performing loans
    53.81 %     117.69 %     59.46 %     106.52 %     28.62 %

(1) Includes non-accruing loans.

The provision for loan losses is charged to operations in an amount necessary to bring the total allowance for loan losses to a level that management believes is adequate to absorb inherent losses in the loan portfolio.  The Company recorded a loan loss provision in the amount of $900,000 in 2014 compared to a $4.9 million provision in 2013.
 
 
48
 
 
 
The decrease in the provision recorded during 2014 when compared to 2013 was primarily driven by a single loan relationship which was determined to be impaired during the fourth quarter of 2013 due to delinquency in payments.  The need for a provision in the amount of $3.6 million, recorded in 2013, was the result of a significant reduction in the collateral value supporting the loan based upon a current appraisal.  Management is working closely with this borrower to resolve the delinquency issue and address the collateral deficiency.
 
The allowance for loan losses as a percentage of non-performing loans (coverage ratio) was 53.8% at December 31, 2014 as compared to 117.7% at December 31, 2013 and 59.5% at December 31, 2012.  The decrease in the coverage ratio at December 31, 2014 when compared to December 31, 2013 was primarily the result of an increase in non-performing loans during 2014.  This increase was driven by one loan relationship that transferred to non-accrual status in the second quarter 2014.  A reserve for this loan was recorded during the fourth quarter of 2013 when it was initially downgraded to impaired status.  Coverage is considered adequate by management as of December 31, 2014.

Management makes at least a quarterly determination as to an appropriate provision from earnings to maintain an allowance for loan losses that it determines is adequate to absorb inherent losses in the loan portfolio. The Board of Directors periodically reviews the status of all non-accrual and impaired loans and loans classified by the management team. The Board of Directors also considers specific loans, pools of similar loans, historical charge-off activity, economic conditions and other relevant factors in reviewing the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses. Any additions deemed necessary to the allowance for loan losses are charged to operating expenses.

The Company evaluates loans for impairment and potential charge-offs on a quarterly basis.  Any loan rated as substandard or lower will have a collateral evaluation analysis completed in accordance with the guidance under generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) on impaired loans to determine if a deficiency exists. Our credit monitoring process assesses the ultimate collectability of an outstanding loan balance from all potential sources. When a loan is determined to be uncollectible it is charged-off against the allowance for loan losses. Unsecured commercial loans and all consumer loans are charged-off immediately upon reaching the 90-day delinquency mark unless they are well secured and in the process of collection.  The timing on charge-offs of all other loan types is subjective and will be recognized when management determines that full repayment, either from the cash flow of the borrower, collateral sources, and/or guarantors, will not be sufficient and that repayment is unlikely.  A full or partial charge-off is recognized equal to the amount of the estimated deficiency calculation.

Serious delinquency is often the first indicator of a potential charge-off.  Reductions in appraised collateral values and deteriorating financial condition of borrowers and guarantors are factors considered when evaluating potential charge-offs.  The likelihood of possible recoveries or improvements in a borrower’s financial condition is also assessed when considering a charge-off.

Partial charge-offs of non-performing and impaired loans can significantly reduce the coverage ratio and other credit loss statistics due to the fact that the balance of the allowance for loan losses will be reduced while still carrying the remainder of a non-performing loan balance in the impaired loan category.  The amount of non-performing loans for which there were partial charge-offs during the year amounted to $17.8 million at December 31, 2014 compared to $6.2 million at December 31, 2013.

The Company’s charge-off policy is reviewed on an annual basis and updated as necessary.  During the twelve months ended December 31, 2014, there have been no changes made to this policy.

We have an existing loan review program, which monitors the loan portfolio on an ongoing basis. A loan review officer who reviews both the loan portfolio and overall adequacy of the allowance for loan losses conducts this loan review on a quarterly basis and reports directly to the Board of Directors.
 
 
 
49
 

 
Estimating the appropriate level of the allowance for loan losses at any given date is difficult, particularly in a continually changing economy. In management’s opinion, the allowance for loan losses was appropriate at December 31, 2014. However, there can be no assurance that, if asset quality deteriorates in future periods, additions to the allowance for loan losses will not be required.
 
Management is unable to determine in which loan category future charge-offs and recoveries may occur. The following schedule sets forth the allocation of the allowance for loan losses among various categories. The allocation is based on management’s evaluation of historical charge-off experience and adjusted for qualitative factors. The entire allowance for loan losses is available to absorb loan losses in any loan category.

The allocation of the allowance for loan losses for the past five years is as follows:

   
At December 31,
 
   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
   
2011
   
2010
 
 
(dollars in thousands )
 
Amount
   
% of Loans
   
Amount
   
% of Loans
   
Amount
   
% of Loans
   
Amount
   
% of Loans
   
Amount
   
% of Loans
 
Commercial real estate
  $ 6,828       48.5 %   $ 6,454       50.4 %   $ 3,979       54.3 %   $ 7,372       58.4 %   $ 7,243       60.4 %
Construction and land development
    917       3.8 %     1,948       3.5 %     1,273       4.3 %     558       6.0 %     837       11.9 %
Commercial and industrial
    1,579       18.5 %     2,309       17.4 %     1,880       16.8 %     1,928       14.9 %     1,443       12.6 %
Owner occupied real estate
    1,638       24.0 %     985       23.6 %     1,967       20.4 %     1,963       17.4 %     1,575       11.4 %
Consumer and other
    234       5.1 %     225       4.7 %     234       3.8 %     113       2.8 %     130       2.9 %
Residential mortgage
    2       0.1 %     14       0.4 %     17       0.4 %     23       0.5 %     41       0.8 %
Unallocated
    338       -       328       -       192       -       93       -       175       -  
Total allowance for loan losses
  $ 11,536       100 %   $ 12,263       100 %   $ 9,542       100 %   $ 12,050       100 %   $ 11,444       100 %

The allowance for loan losses is an amount that represents management’s estimate of known and inherent losses related to the loan portfolio and unfunded loan commitments.  Because the allowance for loan losses is dependent, to a great extent, on the general economy and other conditions that may be beyond our control, the estimate of the allowance for loan losses could differ materially in the near term.

The allowance consists of specific, general and unallocated components.  The specific component relates to loans that are categorized as “internally classified”.  For such loans that are also classified as impaired, an allowance is established when the discounted cash flows (or collateral value or observable market price) of the impaired loan is lower than the carrying value of that loan.  The general component covers non-classified loans and is based on historical loss experience adjusted for qualitative factors.  An unallocated component is maintained to cover uncertainties that could affect management’s estimate of probable losses.  The unallocated component of the allowance reflects the margin of imprecision inherent in the underlying assumptions used in the methodologies for estimating specific and general losses in the portfolio.  All identified losses are immediately charged off and therefore no portion of the allowance for loan losses is restricted to any individual loan or group of loans, and the entire allowance is available to absorb any and all loan losses.
 

 
 
50
 
 
 
In estimating the allowance for loan losses, management considers current economic conditions, past loss experience, diversification of the loan portfolio, delinquency statistics, results of internal loan reviews and regulatory examinations, borrowers’ perceived financial and managerial strengths, the adequacy of underlying collateral, if collateral dependent, or present value of future cash flows, and other relevant and qualitative risk factors.  These qualitative risk factors include:

 
1.
Lending policies and procedures, including underwriting standards and collection, charge-off and recovery practices.
 
2.
National, regional and local economic and business conditions as well as the condition of various segments.
 
3.
Nature and volume of the portfolio and terms of loans.
 
4.
Experience, ability and depth of lending management and staff.
 
5.
Volume and severity of past due, classified and nonaccrual loans as well as other loan modifications.
 
6.
Quality of the Company’s loan review system, and the degree of oversight by the Company’s Board of Directors.
 
7.
Existence and effect of any concentration of credit and changes in the level of such concentrations.
 
8.
Effect of external factors, such as competition and legal and regulatory requirements.

Each factor is assigned a value to reflect improving, stable or declining conditions based on management’s best judgment using relevant information available at the time of the evaluation.  Adjustments to the factors are supported through documentation of changes in conditions in a narrative accompanying the allowance for loan loss calculation.

We also provide specific reserves for impaired loans to the extent the estimated realizable value of the underlying collateral is less than the loan balance, when the collateral is the only source of repayment. Also, we estimate and recognize reserve allocations on loans classified as “internally classified accruing loans” based upon any factor that might impact loss estimates. Those factors include but are not limited to the impact of economic conditions on the borrower and management’s potential alternative strategies for loan or collateral disposition.  An unallocated allowance is established for losses that have not been identified through the formulaic and other specific components of the allowance as described above. Management has identified several factors that impact credit losses that are not considered in either the formula or the specific allowance segments. These factors consist of macro and micro economic conditions, industry and geographic loan concentrations, changes in the composition of the loan portfolio, changes in underwriting processes and trends in problem loan and loss recovery rates. The impact of the above is considered in light of management’s conclusions as to the overall adequacy of underlying collateral and other factors.

The majority of our loan portfolio represents loans made for commercial purposes, while significant amounts of residential property may serve as collateral for such loans. We attempt to evaluate larger loans individually, on the basis of our loan review process, which scrutinizes loans on a selective basis and other available information. Even if all commercial purpose   loans could be reviewed, information on potential problems might not be available. Our portfolio of loans made for purposes of financing residential mortgages and consumer loans are evaluated in groups. At December 31, 2014, loans made for commercial real estate, construction and land development, commercial and industrial, owner occupied real estate, consumer and other, and residential mortgage purposes, respectively, amounted to $379.3 million, $29.9 million, $145.1 million, $188.0 million, $39.7 million, and $408,000.

A loan is considered impaired, in accordance with ASC 310, when based on current information and events, it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect all amounts due from the borrower in accordance with the contractual terms of the loan.  Impaired loans include nonperforming commercial loans, but also include internally classified accruing loans.  As of December 31, 2014, management identified a total of three troubled debt restructurings in the loan portfolio in the amount of $9.6 million.  Three troubled debt restructurings in the amount of $4.2 million were identified as of December 31, 2013.


 
51
 


The following table presents the Company’s impaired loans at December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012:

(dollars in thousands)
    December 31,  
   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
Impaired loans without a valuation allowance
  $ 16,742     $ 10,790     $ 27,594  
Impaired loans with a valuation allowance
    18,902       21,743       13,421  
Total impaired loans
  $ 35,644     $ 32,533     $ 41,015  
                         
Valuation allowance related to impaired loans
  $ 5,130     $ 5,610     $ 2,943  
Total nonaccrual loans
    21,440       10,420       15,846  
Total loans past-due ninety days or more and
                       
   still accruing
    -       -       202  

The recorded investment in loans that are impaired in accordance with ASC 310 totaled $35.6 million, $32.5 million, and $41.0 million at December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. The amounts of related valuation allowances were $5.1 million, $5.6 million, and $2.9 million, respectively at those dates.  For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 the average recorded investment in impaired loans was approximately $33.0 million, $33.7 million, and $40.8 million, respectively.  Republic earned $614,000, $1.2 million, and $1.6 million of interest income on impaired loans (internally classified accruing loans) in 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.  There were no commitments to extend credit to any borrowers with impaired loans as of the end of the periods presented herein.

Total impaired loans increased by $3.1 million, or 10%, during the year ended December 31, 2014. This increase was due to a credit downgrade on one loan relationship in the amount of $6.1 million identified as a troubled debt restructuring in the fourth quarter of 2014. The loan has been and continues to be an accruing loan and the borrower has remained current since the modification.  The downgrade was partially offset by balance payoffs, writedowns, and credit upgrades processed in 2014.  The valuation allowance related to impaired loans decreased to $5.1 million at December 31, 2014 compared to $5.6 million at December 31, 2013. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, internally classified accruing loans totaled approximately $14.2 million and $22.1 million, respectively.

The following table presents the Company’s 30 to 89 days past due loans at December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012:  

(dollars in thousands)
December 31,  
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
 
30 to 59 days past due
$ 1,681   $ 21,504   $ 1,143  
60 to 89 days past due
  14,062     6,987     27,823  
Total loans 30 to 89 days past due
$ 15,743   $ 28,491   $ 28,966  

The decrease in loan balances 30 to 59 days past due was the result of delinquency in two lending relationships at December 31, 2013, one of which in the amount of $12.7 million moved from 30 to 59 days past due at December 31, 2013 to greater than 90 days  past due as of December 31, 2014, the other in the amount of $6.0 million moved from 30 to 59 days past due at December 31, 2013 to current status at December 31, 2014.  The increase in loan balances 60 to 89 days past due was the result of delinquency in one lending relationship at December 31, 2014 in the amount of $5.0 million.  Management has engaged in active discussions with all delinquent relationships to address delinquencies and is confident that acceptable resolutions will be achieved in the near term.
 
 
 
52
 
 

 
Deposits

Total deposits at December 31, 2014 were $1.1 billion, a increase of $202.7 million or 23.3% from total deposits of $869.5 million at December 31, 2013.  Total deposits by account type at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 are as follows:

(dollars in thousands)
 
At December 31,
 
   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
Demand deposits, non-interest bearing
  $ 224,245     $ 157,806     $ 145,407  
Demand deposits, interest bearing
    283,768       230,221       180,440  
Money market & savings deposits
    488,848       402,671       440,120  
Time deposits
    75,369       78,836       123,234  
Total deposits
  $ 1,072,230     $ 869,534     $ 889,201  

In general, Republic pays higher interest rates on time deposits compared to other deposit categories.  Republic’s various deposit liabilities may fluctuate from period-to-period, reflecting customer behavior and strategies to optimize net interest income.  The increase in total deposits to $1.1 billion at December 31, 2014 from $869.5 million at December 31, 2013 was primarily the result of a $120.0 million increase in demand deposits, an $86.2 million increase in money market and savings deposits, which reflects the success of our retail-focused strategy of gathering low-cost core deposits.  This strategy has also allowed us to nearly eliminate our dependence on the more volatile sources of funding in brokered and internet based certificates of deposit.

The average balances and weighted average rates of Republic’s deposits for the last three years are as follows:

   
For the Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
Average Balance
   
Rate
   
Average Balance
   
Rate
   
Average Balance
   
Rate
 
Demand deposits:
                                   
Non-interest bearing
  $ 189,810           $ 149,125           $ 136,999        
Interest bearing
    233,693       0.38 %     192,224       0.43 %     146,319       0.54 %
Money market & savings deposits
    439,484       0.44 %     417,652       0.43 %     433,422       0.63 %
Time deposits
    78,073       0.92 %     92,484       0.94 %     155,549       1.10 %
Total deposits
  $ 941,060       0.38 %   $ 851,485       0.41 %   $ 872,289       0.60 %

The remaining maturity of certificates of deposit for $100,000 or more as of December 31, 2014 is as follows:
 
(dollars in thousands)
     
Maturity:
     
3 months or less
  $ 8,880  
3 to 6 months
    3,864  
6 to 12 months
    13,839  
Over 12 months
    13,246  
Total
  $ 39,829  
 

 
 
53
 


The following is a summary of the remaining maturity of time deposits, which includes certificates of deposits of $100,000 or more, as of December 31, 2014:
 
(dollars in thousands)
     
Maturity:
     
2015
  $ 54,442  
2016
    17,886  
2017
    1627  
2018
    907  
2019
    507  
Thereafter
    -  
Total
  $ 75,369  

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
 
We are a party to financial instruments with off-balance-sheet risk in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of our customers. These financial instruments include commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit. These instruments involve to varying degrees, elements of credit and interest rate risk in excess of the amount recognized in the financial statements.
 
Credit risk is defined as the possibility of sustaining a loss due to the failure of the other parties to a financial instrument to perform in accordance with the terms of the contract. The maximum exposure to credit loss under commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit is represented by the contractual amount of these instruments. We use the same underwriting standards and policies in making credit commitments as we do for on-balance-sheet instruments.
 
Financial instruments whose contract amounts represent potential credit risk are commitments to extend credit of approximately $138.4 million and $109.3 million and standby letters of credit of approximately $3.8 million and $2.7 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  Commitments often expire without being drawn upon. The $138.4 million of commitments to extend credit at December 31, 2014, substantially all were variable rate commitments.
 
Commitments to extend 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 fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and many require the payment of a fee. Since many of the commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements. The Company evaluates each customer’s creditworthiness on a case-by-case basis. The amount of collateral obtained upon extension of credit is based on management’s credit evaluation of the customer. Collateral held varies but may include real estate, marketable securities, pledged deposits, equipment and accounts receivable.

Standby letters of credit are conditional commitments issued that guarantee the performance of a customer to a third party. The credit risk and collateral policy involved in issuing letters of credit is essentially the same as that involved in extending loan commitments. The amount of collateral obtained is based on management’s credit evaluation of the customer. Collateral held varies but may include real estate, marketable securities, pledged deposits, equipment and accounts receivable.


 
54
 


Contractual Obligations and Other Commitments
 
The following table sets forth contractual obligations and other commitments representing required and potential cash outflows as of December 31, 2014:
 
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
Total
   
Less than One Year
   
One to Three Years
   
Three to Five Years
   
After Five Years
 
Minimum annual rentals or non-cancellable operating leases
  $ 55,772     $ 2,819     $ 5,407     $ 5,594     $ 41,952  
Remaining contractual maturities of time deposits
    75,369       54,442       19,513       1,414       -  
Subordinated debt
    22,476       -       -       -       22,476  
Director and Officer retirement plan obligations
    1,355       509       222       204       420  
Loan commitments
    138,400       71,322       14,387       12,669       40,022  
Standby letters of credit
    3,840       2,686       -       1,019       135  
Total
  $ 297,212     $ 131,778     $ 39,529     $ 20,900     $ 105,055  
 
As of December 31, 2014, we had entered into non-cancelable lease agreements for our main office and operations center, twelve current Republic retail branch facilities, two loan offices, and one training center expiring through November 30, 2054, including renewal options. The leases are accounted for as operating leases. The minimum rental payments required under these leases are $55.8 million through the year 2055, including renewal options.   We have retirement plan agreements with certain directors and officers.  At December 31, 2014, the accrued benefits under the plan were approximately $1.4 million, with a minimum age of 65 established to qualify for the payments. 

Interest Rate Risk Management
 
We attempt to manage our assets and liabilities in a manner that optimizes net interest income in a range of interest rate environments. Management uses an “interest sensitivity gap” (“GAP”) analysis and simulation models to monitor behavior of its interest sensitive assets and liabilities. A GAP analysis is the difference between interest-sensitive assets and interest-sensitive liabilities.  Adjustments to the mix of assets and liabilities are made periodically in an effort to provide steady growth in net interest income.
 
Management presently believes that the effect on Republic of any future reduction in interest rates, reflected in lower yielding assets, could be detrimental since Republic may not have the immediate ability to commensurately decrease rates on its interest bearing liabilities, primarily time deposits, other borrowings and certain transaction accounts. An increase in interest rates could have a negative effect on Republic, due to a possible lag in the re-pricing of core deposits not taken into account in the static GAP analysis.  Interest rate risk management involves managing the extent to which interest-sensitive assets and interest-sensitive liabilities are matched. We attempt to optimize net interest income while managing period-to-period fluctuations therein. We typically define interest-sensitive assets and interest-sensitive liabilities as those that re-price within one year or less.  Generally, we limit long-term fixed rate assets and liabilities in our efforts to manage interest rate risk.
 
A positive GAP occurs when interest-sensitive assets exceed interest-sensitive liabilities re-pricing in the same time periods, and a negative GAP occurs when interest-sensitive liabilities exceed interest-sensitive assets re-pricing in the same time periods. A negative GAP ratio suggests that a financial institution may be better positioned to take advantage of declining interest rates rather than increasing interest rates, and a positive GAP ratio suggests the converse.  Static GAP analysis describes interest rate sensitivity at a point in time; however, it alone does not accurately measure the magnitude of changes in net interest income as changes in interest rates do not impact all categories of assets and liabilities equally or simultaneously.  Interest rate sensitivity analysis also requires assumptions about re-pricing certain categories of assets and liabilities.  For purposes of interest rate sensitivity analysis, assets and liabilities are stated at their contractual maturity, estimated likely call date, or earliest re-pricing opportunity.  Mortgage-backed securities and amortizing loans are scheduled based on their anticipated cash flow, including prepayments based on historical data and current market trends.  Savings, money market and interest-bearing demand accounts do not have a stated maturity or re-pricing term and can be withdrawn or re-priced at any time. Management estimates the re-pricing characteristics of these accounts based upon decay rates and run off projections obtained in a deposit study performed by an independent third party, along with management’s estimates of when rates would have to be increased to retain balances in response to competition.  Such estimates are necessarily arbitrary and wholly judgmental. As a result of the run off projections, these deposits are not considered to re-price simultaneously and, accordingly, a portion of the deposits are moved into time brackets exceeding one year. However, management may choose not to re-price liabilities proportionally to changes in market interest rates, for competitive or other reasons.
 
 
 
55
 
 
 
Shortcomings, inherent in a simplified and static GAP analysis, may result in an institution with a negative GAP having interest rate behavior associated with an asset-sensitive balance sheet. For example, although certain assets and liabilities may have similar maturities or periods to re-pricing, they may react in different degrees to changes in market interest rates. Furthermore, re-pricing characteristics of certain assets and liabilities may vary substantially within a given time period. In the event of a change in interest rates, prepayments and other cash flows could also deviate significantly from those assumed in calculating GAP in the manner presented in the table on the following page.

The following tables present a summary of our GAP analysis at December 31, 2014.  Amounts shown in the table include both estimated maturities and instruments scheduled to re-price, including prime based loans.  For purposes of these tables, we have used assumptions based on industry data and historical experience to calculate the expected maturity of loans because, statistically, certain categories of loans are prepaid before their maturity date, even without regard to interest rate fluctuations. Additionally, certain prepayment assumptions were made with regard to investment securities based upon the expected prepayment of the underlying collateral of the mortgage-backed securities. The interest rate on a portion of the CDOs is variable and adjusts quarterly.
 
 
 
56
 
 
 

Interest Rate Sensitivity Gap
 
As of December 31, 2014
 
                                                         
 
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
0 – 90 Days
   
91-180 Days
   
181-365 Days
   
1-2
Years
   
2-3
Years
   
3-4 Years
   
4-5 Years
   
More than 5 Years
 
Financial Statement Total
 
Fair Value
 
                                                         
Interest sensitive assets:
                                                       
Investment securities and other interest-bearing balances
  $ 117,044     $ 3,031     $ 12,649     $ 20,276     $ 14,151     $ 10,902     $ 10,968     $ 179,385     $ 368,406     $ 368,793  
Average interest rate
    2.04 %     2.18 %     1.51 %     1.81 %     1.58 %     2.26 %     2.37 %     2.53 %     2.35 %        
Loans receivable
    267,346       19,805       40,573       73,336       96,172       108,274       92,304       85,806       783,616       773,398  
Average interest rate
    5.00 %     5.24 %     4.71 %     4.91 %     4.24 %     4.33 %     4.40 %     7.24 %     4.97 %        
Total
  $ 384,390     $ 22,836     $ 53,222     $ 93,612     $ 110,323     $ 119,176     $ 103,272     $ 265,191     $ 1,152,022     $ 1,142,191  
                                                                                 
Cumulative totals
  $ 384,390     $ 407,226     $ 460,448     $ 554,060     $ 664,383     $ 783,559     $ 886,831     $ 1,152,022                  
                                                                                 
Interest sensitive liabilities:
                                                                               
Demand interest bearing (1)
  $ 15,559     $ 15,559     $ 31,117     $ 23,161     $ 20,398     $ 17,667     $ 15,307     $ 145,000     $ 283,768     $ 283,768  
Average interest rate
    0.39 %     0.39 %     0.39 %     0.37 %     0.37 %     0.38 %     0.38 %     0.37 %     0.38 %        
Savings accounts (1)
    7,452       7,452       14,904       16,940       11,769       8,637       6,513       36,816       110,483       110,483  
Average interest rate
    0.44 %     0.44 %     0.44 %     0.44 %     0.45 %     0.45 %     0.45 %     0.47 %     0.45 %        
Money market accounts (1)
    3,629       3,629       7,258       6,302       13,196       60,738       50,005       233,608       378,365       378,365  
Average interest rate
    0.44 %     0.44 %     0.44 %     0.44 %     0.40 %     0.37 %     0.37 %     0.37 %     0.38 %        
Time deposits
    17,358       10,058       27,028       17,885       1,627       907       506       -       75,369       75,592  
Average interest rate
    0.60 %     0.60 %     0.92 %     1.46 %     0.96 %     0.99 %     1.00 %     -       0.94 %        
Subordinated debt
    11,341       -       -       -       -       -       -       11,135       22,476       18,221  
Average interest rate
    1.96 %     -       -       -       -       -       -       8.00 %     4.95 %        
Total
  $ 55,339     $ 36,698     $ 80,307     $ 64,288     $ 46,990     $ 87,949     $ 72,331     $ 426,559     $ 870,461     $ 866,429  
                                                                                 
Cumulative totals
  $ 55,339     $ 92,037     $ 172,344     $ 236,632     $ 283,622     $ 371,571     $ 443,902     $ 870,461                  
                                                                                 
Interest rate sensitivity GAP
  $ 329,051     $ (13,862 )   $ (27,085 )   $ 29,324     $ 63,333     $ 31,227     $ 30,941     $ (161,368 )                
Cumulative GAP
  $ 329,051     $ 315,189     $ 288,104     $ 317,428     $ 380,761     $ 411,988     $ 442,929     $ 281,561                  
Interest sensitive assets/Interest sensitive liabilities
    694.61 %     442.46 %     267.17 %     234.15 %     234.25 %     210.88 %     199.78 %     132.35 %                
Cumulative GAP/ Total earning assets
    28.56 %     27.36 %     25.01 %     27.55 %     33.05 %     35.76 %     38.45 %     24.44 %                
 
(1) Demand, savings and money market accounts are scheduled to reprice based upon decay rate and run off percentage estimates obtained through a deposit study performed by an independent third party, along with management’s estimates of when rates would have to be increased to retain balances in response to competition.  Such estimates are necessarily arbitrary and wholly judgmental.

In addition to the GAP analysis, we utilize income simulation modeling in measuring our interest rate risk and managing our interest rate sensitivity.  Income simulation considers not only the impact of changing market interest rates on forecasted net interest income, but also other factors such as yield curve relationships, the volume and mix of assets and liabilities and general market conditions.


 
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Net Portfolio Value and Net Interest Income Analysis

The income simulation models management used to measure interest rate risk and manage interest rate sensitivity generates estimates of the change in net portfolio value (NPV) and net interest income (NII) over a range of interest rate scenarios.  NPV is the present value of expected cash flows from assets, liabilities, and off-balance sheet contracts.  The NPV ratio, under any interest rate scenario, is defined as the NPV in that scenario divided by the market value of assets in the same scenario.  The following table sets forth our NPV as of December 31, 2014 and reflects the changes to NPV as a result of immediate and sustained changes in interest rates as indicated (dollars in thousands):

Change in Interest Rates in Basis Points (Rate Shock)
Net Portfolio Value
   
NPV as a % of Portfolio Value of Assets
Amount
$
Change
%
Change
NPV Ratio
Change
(in Basis Points)
               
+400
$170,528
$51,301
43.03%
   
14.84%
496
+300
164,197
44,970
37.72%
   
14.05%
417
+200
152,355
33,128
27.79%
   
12.87%
299
+100
136,769
17,542
14.71%
   
11.42%
154
Static
119,227
                 -
0.00%
   
9.88%
-
-100
106,154
(13,073)
(10.96)%
   
8.73%
(115)

In addition to modeling changes in NPV, we also analyze potential changes to NII for a forecasted twelve-month period under rising and falling interest rate scenarios.  The following table shows the NII model as of December 31, 2014 (dollars in thousands):

Change in Interest Rates in Basis Points (1)
Net Interest  Income
       $
       Change
     %
    Change
       
+400
$41,239
722
1.78%
+300
41,055
538
1.34%
+200
40,899
372
0.92%
+100
40,731
214
0.53%
Static
40,517
               -
0.00%
-100
40,422
(95)
(0.23)%
       
(1) The net interest income results were calculated assuming a rate ramp, achieving the rate change over a 12-month period, not an immediate and sustained rate shock.

As is the case with the GAP table, certain shortcomings are inherent in the methodology used in the above interest rate risk measurements.  Modeling changes in NPV and NII require the making of certain assumptions, which may or may not reflect the manner in which actual yields and costs respond to changes in market interest rates.  In this regard, the models presented assume that the composition of our interest sensitive assets and liabilities existing at the beginning of a period remains constant over the period being measured and also assumes that a particular change in interest rates is reflected uniformly across the yield curve regardless of the duration to maturity or re-pricing of specific assets and liabilities.  Accordingly, although the NPV measurements and net interest income models provide an indication of interest rate risk exposure at a particular point in time, such measurements are not intended to and do not provide a precise forecast of the effect of changes in market interest rates on net interest income and will differ from actual results.
 
 
 
 
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Management believes that the assumptions utilized in evaluating our estimated net interest income are reasonable; however, the interest rate sensitivity of our assets, liabilities and off-balance sheet financial instruments as well as the estimated effect of changes in interest rates on estimated net interest income could vary substantially if different assumptions are used or actual experience differs from the experience on which the assumptions were based. Periodically, we may and do make significant changes to underlying assumptions, which are wholly judgmental.  Prepayments on residential mortgage loans and mortgage-backed securities have increased over historical levels in recent years due to the lower interest rate environment, and may result in reductions in margins.

Capital Resources
 
We have sponsored three outstanding issues of corporation-obligated mandatorily redeemable capital securities of a subsidiary trust holding solely junior subordinated debentures of the Corporation more commonly known as trust preferred securities. The subsidiary trusts are not consolidated for financial reporting purposes.  The purpose of the issuances of these securities was to increase capital. The trust preferred securities qualify as Tier 1 capital for regulatory purposes in amounts up to 25% of total Tier 1 capital.

On December 27, 2006, Republic Capital Trust II (Trust II) issued $6.0 million of trust preferred securities to investors and $0.2 million of common securities to us.  Trust II purchased $6.2 million of our floating rate junior subordinated debentures due 2037, and we used the proceeds to call the securities of Republic Capital Trust I (Trust I).  The debentures purchased by Trust II have a variable interest rate, adjustable quarterly, at 1.73% over the 3-month LIBOR.  We may redeem the debentures on any interest payment date without a prepayment penalty.
 
On June 28, 2007, Republic Capital Trust III (Trust III), issued $5.0 million of trust preferred securities to one investor and $0.2 million common securities to us.  Trust III purchased $5.2 million of our floating rate junior subordinated debentures due 2037, which have a variable interest rate, adjustable quarterly, at 1.55% over the 3 month LIBOR.  We have the ability to redeem the debentures on any interest payment date without a prepayment penalty. 

On June 10, 2008, Republic First Bancorp Capital Trust IV (Trust IV) issued $10.8 million of convertible trust preferred securities as part of our strategic capital plan.  The securities were purchased by investors, including Vernon W. Hill, II, founder and chairman (retired) of Commerce Bancorp, and, since the investment, a consultant to the Company.  The investor group also included a family trust of Harry D. Madonna, our chairman, president and chief executive officer, and Theodore J. Flocco, Jr., who has been elected by the shareholders to our Board of Directors and serves as the Chairman of our Audit Committee.  Trust IV also issued $0.3 million of common securities to us.  Trust IV purchased $11.1 million of our fixed rate junior subordinated convertible debentures due 2038, which pay interest at an annual rate of 8.0% and are redeemable on any interest payment date (a) at any time on or after June 13, 2013 if the closing price of our common stock for 20 trading days in the period of 30 consecutive trading days ending on the trading day prior to the mailing of the notice of redemption exceeds 120% of the then-applicable conversion price, or (b) on or after June 30, 2018, without a prepayment penalty.  The trust preferred securities of Trust IV are currently convertible into approximately 1.7 million shares of our common stock, which is subject to customary adjustments.

Additionally, on April 22, 2014, the Company issued 11,842,106 shares of its common stock in a private placement for gross proceeds of $45.0 million.
 
 
 
59
 
 
 
Shareholders’ equity as of December 31, 2014 totaled approximately $112.8 million compared to approximately $62.9 million as of December 31, 2013.  The book value per share of our common stock increased from $2.42 as of December 31, 2013, based upon 25,972,897 shares outstanding, as adjusted for treasury stock and deferred compensation plan shares, to $2.98 as of December 31, 2014, based upon 37,815,503 shares outstanding at December 31, 2014, as adjusted for treasury stock and deferred compensation plan shares.

Regulatory Capital Requirements
 
The Company is required to comply with certain “risk-based” capital adequacy guidelines issued by the FRB and the FDIC. The risk-based capital guidelines assign varying risk weights to the individual assets held by a bank. The guidelines also assign weights to the “credit-equivalent” amounts of certain off-balance sheet items, such as letters of credit and interest rate and currency swap contracts. Under these guidelines, banks are expected to meet a minimum target ratio for “qualifying total capital” to weighted risk assets of 8%, at least one-half of which is to be in the form of “Tier 1 capital”. Qualifying total capital is divided into two separate categories or “tiers”. “Tier 1 capital” includes common stockholders’ equity, certain qualifying perpetual preferred stock and minority interests in the equity accounts of consolidated subsidiaries, less goodwill. “Tier 2 capital” components (limited in the aggregate to one-half of total qualifying capital) includes allowances for credit losses (within limits), certain excess levels of perpetual preferred stock and certain types of “hybrid” capital instruments, subordinated debt and other preferred stock. Applying the federal guidelines, the ratio of qualifying total capital to weighted-risk assets was 15.10% and 11.53% at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and as required by the guidelines, at least one-half of the qualifying total capital consisted of Tier l capital elements. Tier l risk-based capital ratios on December 31, 2014 and 2013 were 13.88% and 10.28%, respectively. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, we exceeded the requirements for risk-based capital adequacy under federal guidelines.  At December 31, 2014 and 2013, our leverage ratio was 11.23% and 8.59%, respectively.

The risk-based capital ratios measure the adequacy of a bank’s capital against the riskiness of its assets and off-balance sheet activities. Failure to maintain adequate capital is a basis for “prompt corrective action” or other regulatory enforcement action. In assessing a bank’s capital adequacy, regulators also consider other factors such as interest rate risk exposure; liquidity, funding and market risks; quality and level or earnings; concentrations of credit, quality of loans and investments; risks of any nontraditional activities; effectiveness of bank policies; and management’s overall ability to monitor and control risks.
 
Under FDIC regulations, a bank is deemed to be “well capitalized” when it has a “leverage ratio” (“Tier l capital to total assets”) of at least 5%, a Tier l capital to weighted-risk assets ratio of at least 6%, and a total capital to weighted-risk assets ratio of at least 10%. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, Republic was considered “well capitalized” under FDIC regulations.



 
60
 

 

The following table presents our regulatory capital ratios at December 31, 2014 and 2013:

(dollars in thousands)
 
 
Actual
   
For Capital Adequacy Purposes
   
To be well capitalized under regulatory capital guidelines
 
   
Amount
   
Ratio
   
Amount
   
Ratio
   
Amount
   
Ratio
 
At December 31, 2014:
                                   
                                     
Total risk based capital
                                   
Republic
  $ 132,460       14.04 %   $ 75,491       8.00 %   $ 94,364       10.00 %
Company
    142,556       15.10 %     75,543       8.00 %     -       - %
                                                 
Tier one risk based capital
                                               
Republic
    120,924       12.81 %     37,746       4.00 %     56,618       6.00 %
Company
    131,020       13.88 %     37,771       4.00 %     -       - %
                                                 
Tier one leveraged capital
                                               
Republic
    120,924       10.37 %     46,630       4.00 %     58,288       5.00 %
Company
    131,020       11.23 %     46,680       4.00 %     -       - %
                                                 
At December 31, 2013:
                                               
                                                 
Total risk based capital
                                               
Republic
  $ 92,493       11.38 %   $ 65,038       8.00 %   $ 81,297       10.00 %
Company
    93,848       11.53 %     65,092       8.00 %     -       - %
                                                 
Tier one risk based capital
                                               
Republic
    82,305       10.12 %     32,519       4.00 %     48,778       6.00 %
Company
    83,652       10.28 %     32,546       4.00 %     -       - %
                                                 
Tier one leveraged capital
                                               
Republic
    82,305       8.46 %     38,921       4.00 %     48,651       5.00 %
Company
    83,652       8.59 %     38,971       4.00 %     -       - %

Management believes that the Company and Republic met, as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, all capital adequacy requirements to which we are subject. In the current year, the FDIC categorized Republic as well capitalized under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action provisions of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act. There are no calculations or events since that notification which management believes would have changed Republic’s category.
 
The Company and Republic’s ability to maintain the required levels of capital is substantially dependent upon the success of their capital and business plans, the impact of future economic events on Republic’s loan customers and Republic’s ability to manage its interest rate risk, growth and other operating expenses.

 In July 2013, the federal bank regulatory agencies adopted revisions to the agencies’ capital adequacy guidelines and prompt corrective action rules, which were designed to enhance such requirements and implement the revised standards of the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision, commonly referred to as Basel III. The final rules generally implement higher minimum capital requirements, add a new common equity tier 1 capital requirement, and establish criteria that instruments must meet to be considered common equity tier 1 capital, additional tier 1 capital or tier 2 capital.  The new minimum capital to risk-adjusted assets requirements are a common equity tier 1 capital ratio of 4.5% (6.5% to be considered “well capitalized”) and a tier 1 capital ratio of 6.0%, increased from 4.0% (and increased from 6.0% to 8.0% to be considered “well capitalized”); the total capital ratio remains at 8.0% under the new rules (10.0% to be considered “well capitalized”).  Under the new rules, in order to avoid limitations on capital distributions (including dividend payments and certain discretionary bonus payments to executive officers), a banking organization must hold a capital conservation buffer comprised of common equity tier 1 capital above its minimum risk-based capital requirements in an amount greater than 2.5% of total risk-weighted assets. The new minimum capital requirements are effective on January 1, 2015. The capital contribution buffer requirements phase in over a three-year period beginning January 1, 2016. Management has reviewed the new standards and evaluated all options and strategies to ensure compliance with the new standards.  Management believes that Republic will maintain its status as a “well-capitalized” financial institution under the new standards.
 
 
 
 
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Liquidity
 
A financial institution must maintain and manage liquidity to ensure it has the ability to meet its financial obligations. These obligations include the payment of deposits on demand or at their contractual maturity; the repayment of borrowings as they mature; the payment of lease obligations as they become due; the ability to fund new and existing loans and other funding commitments; and the ability to take advantage of new business opportunities. Liquidity needs can be met by either reducing assets or increasing liabilities. Our most liquid assets consist of cash, amounts due from banks and federal funds sold.

Regulatory authorities require us to maintain certain liquidity ratios in order for funds to be available to satisfy commitments to borrowers and the demands of depositors. In response to these requirements, we have formed an asset/liability committee (ALCO), comprised of certain members of Republic’s Board of Directors and senior management to monitor such ratios. The ALCO committee is responsible for managing the liquidity position and interest sensitivity. That committee’s primary objective is to maximize net interest income while configuring Republic’s interest-sensitive assets and liabilities to manage interest rate risk and provide adequate liquidity for projected needs. The ALCO committee meets on a quarterly basis or more frequently if deemed necessary.
 
Our target and actual liquidity levels are determined by comparisons of the estimated repayment and marketability of interest-earning assets with projected future outflows of deposits and other liabilities. Our most liquid assets, comprised of cash and cash equivalents on the balance sheet, totaled $128.8 million at December 31, 2014, compared to $35.9 million at December 31, 2013. Loan maturities and repayments are another source of asset liquidity. At December 31, 2014, Republic estimated that more than $40.0 million of loans would mature or repay in the six-month period ending June 30, 2015. Additionally, a significant portion of our investment securities are available to satisfy liquidity requirements through sales on the open market or by pledging as collateral to access credit facilities. At December 31, 2014, we had outstanding commitments (including unused lines of credit and letters of credit) of $142.2 million. Certificates of deposit scheduled to mature in one year totaled $54.4 million at December 31, 2014. We anticipate that we will have sufficient funds available to meet all current commitments.
 
Daily funding requirements have historically been satisfied by generating core deposits and certificates of deposit with competitive rates, buying federal funds or utilizing the credit facilities of the FHLB. We have established a line of credit with the FHLB of Pittsburgh.  Our maximum borrowing capacity with the FHLB was $397.8 million at December 31, 2014. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, we had no outstanding borrowings with the FHLB. As of December 31, 2014 FHLB had issued letters of credit, on Republic’s behalf, totaling $75.1 million against our available credit line. We also established a contingency line of credit of $10.0 million with Atlantic Central Bankers Bank (“ACBB”) to assist in managing our liquidity position. We had no amounts outstanding against the ACBB line of credit at December 31, 2014 and 2013.
 
 

 
 
62
 
 
Variable Interest Entities
 
The Company follows the guidance under ASC 810, Consolidation , with regard to variable interest entities.  ASC 810 clarifies the application of consolidation principles for certain legal entities in which voting rights are not effective in identifying the investor with the controlling financial interest. An entity is subject to consolidation under ASC 810 if the investors do not have sufficient equity at risk for the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support, are unable to direct the entity’s activities, or are not exposed to the entity’s losses or entitled to its residual returns ("variable interest entities"). Variable interest entities within the scope of ASC 810 will be required to be consolidated by their primary beneficiary. The primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity is determined to be the party that absorbs a majority of the entity's expected losses, receives a majority of its expected returns, or both.

The Company does not consolidate its subsidiary trusts.  ASC 810 precludes consideration of the call option embedded in the preferred securities when determining if the Company has the right to a majority of the trusts’ expected residual returns. The non-consolidation results in the investment in the common securities of the trusts to be included in other assets with a corresponding increase in outstanding debt of $676,000. In addition, the income received on the Company’s investment in the common securities of the trusts is included in other income.

Effects of Inflation
 
The majority of assets and liabilities of a financial institution are monetary in nature. Therefore, a financial institution differs greatly from most commercial and industrial companies that have significant investments in fixed assets or inventories. Management believes that the most significant impact of inflation on financial results is our need and ability to react to changes in interest rates. As discussed previously, management attempts to maintain an essentially balanced position between rate sensitive assets and liabilities over a one-year time horizon in order to protect net interest income from being affected by wide interest rate fluctuations.
 
Item 7A:  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk
 
See “Management Discussion and Analysis of Results of Operations and Financial Condition – Interest Rate Risk Management”.
 
Item 8:  Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
 
The Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company begin on page 66.



 
63
 
 
 
Tel: 717-233-8800
Fax: 717-233-8801
www.bdo.com
945 E. Park Drive, Suite 103
Harrisburg, PA 17111

 
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
 
 
Board of Directors and Shareholders
Republic First Bancorp, Inc.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
 
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Republic First Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries (the "Bancorp"), Inc. as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), changes in shareholders' equity, and cash flows for the years then ended. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Bancorp's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial statements based on our audits.
 
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
 
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Republic First Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries at December 31, 2014 and 2013 and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the years then ended, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
 
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Bancorp's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) and our report dated March 13, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion.
 

 

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
March 13, 2015
 

 

 
64
 


Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
 
Board of Directors and Shareholders
 
Republic First Bancorp, Inc.
 
We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), changes in shareholders’ equity, and cash flows of Republic First Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries (the “Bancorp”) for the year ended December 31, 2012. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Bancorp’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.
 
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated results of operations and cash flows of Republic First Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries for the year ended December 31, 2012, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.


/s/ Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
March 15, 2013


 
65
 

 


Republic First Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Balance Sheets
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
   
December 31, 2014
   
December 31, 2013
 
ASSETS
           
Cash and due from banks
  $ 14,822     $ 12,525  
Interest bearing deposits with banks
    114,004       23,355  
    Cash and cash equivalents
    128,826       35,880  
                 
Investment securities available for sale, at fair value
    185,379       204,891  
Investment securities held to maturity, at amortized cost (fair value of $68,253 and $21, respectively)
    67,866       21  
Restricted stock, at cost
    1,157       1,570  
Loans held for sale
    1,676       4,931  
Loans receivable (net of allowance for loan losses of $11,536 and $12,263, respectively)
    770,404       667,048  
Premises and equipment, net
    35,030       22,748  
Other real estate owned, net
    3,715       4,059  
Accrued interest receivable
    3,226       3,049  
Other assets
    17,319       17,468  
    Total Assets
  $ 1,214,598     $ 961,665  
                 
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
               
Liabilities
               
Deposits
               
   Demand – non-interest bearing
  $ 224,245     $ 157,806  
   Demand – interest bearing
    283,768       230,221  
   Money market and savings
    488,848       402,671  
   Time deposits
    75,369       78,836  
       Total Deposits
    1,072,230       869,534  
Accrued interest payable
    265       237  
Other liabilities
    6,816       6,519  
Subordinated debt
    22,476       22,476  
    Total Liabilities
    1,101,787       898,766  
                 
Shareholders’ Equity
               
Preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share: 10,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued
    -       -  
Common stock, par value $0.01 per share: 50,000,000 shares authorized; shares issued 38,344,348 as of December 31, 2014 and 26,501,742 as of December 31, 2013
    383       265  
Additional paid in capital
    152,234       107,078  
Accumulated deficit
    (35,266 )     (37,708 )
Treasury stock at cost (503,408 shares as of December 31, 2014 and 416,303 shares as of
    December 31, 2013)
    (3,725 )     (3,099 )
Stock held by deferred compensation plan (25,437 shares as of December 31, 2014 and
    112,542 shares as of December 31, 2013)
    (183 )     (809 )
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
    (632 )     (2,828 )
    Total Shareholders’ Equity
    112,811       62,899  
    Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
  $ 1,214,598     $ 961,665  



(See notes to consolidated financial statements)
 
 
 
66
 
 
 
 
Republic First Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Operations
For the Years Ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
Interest income:
                 
Interest and fees on taxable loans
  $ 34,530     $ 31,986     $ 32,326  
Interest and fees on tax-exempt loans
    339       349       265  
Interest and dividends on taxable investment securities
    5,053       4,435       4,899  
Interest and dividends on tax-exempt investment securities
    364       250       470  
Interest on federal funds sold and other interest-earning assets
    187       185       300  
Total interest income
    40,473       37,205       38,260  
Interest expense:
                       
Demand- interest bearing
    888       825       796  
Money market and savings
    1,929       1,786       2,718  
Time deposits
    719       867       1,718  
Other borrowings
    1,108       1,112       1,134  
Total interest expense
    4,644       4,590       6,366  
Net interest income
    35,829       32,615       31,894  
Provision for loan losses
    900       4,935       1,350  
Net interest income after provision for loan losses
    34,929       27,680       30,544  
Non-interest income:
                       
Loan advisory and servicing fees
    1,452       1,615       1,251  
Gain on sales of SBA loans
    4,717       5,338       5,531  
Service fees on deposit accounts
    1,224       1,046       922  
Legal settlements
    -       238       155  
Gain on sale of investment securities
    458       703       737  
Other-than-temporary impairment
    21       -       (35 )
Portion recognized in other comprehensive income (before taxes)
    (28 )     -       1  
Net impairment loss on investment securities
    (7 )     -       (34 )
Bank owned life insurance income
    -       13       73  
Other non-interest income
    173       263       193  
Total non-interest income
    8,017       9,216       8,828  
Non-interest expenses:
                       
Salaries and employee benefits
    20,089       17,064       16,512  
Occupancy
    4,247       3,635       3,454  
Depreciation and amortization
    2,382       2,105       2,006  
Legal
    1,290       1,878       2,966  
Other real estate owned
    1,794       3,179       763  
Advertising
    597       447       307  
Data processing
    1,345       1,000       1,187  
Insurance
    586       625       654  
Professional fees
    1,468       1,420       1,106  
Regulatory assessments and costs
    1,065       1,257       1,367  
Taxes, other
    616       557       594  
Legal settlement
    -       1,875       -  
Other operating expenses
    5,071       5,369       4,986  
Total non-interest expense
    40,550       40,411       35,902  
Income (loss) before benefit for income taxes
    2,396       (3,515 )     3,470  
Benefit for income taxes
    (46 )     (35 )     (144 )
Net income (loss)
  $ 2,442     $ (3,480 )   $ 3,614  
Net income (loss) per share:
                       
Basic
  $ 0.07     $ (0.13 )   $ 0.14  
Diluted
  $ 0.07     $ (0.13 )   $ 0.14  

 

(See notes to consolidated financial statements)
 
 

 
 
67
 
 
Republic First Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)
For the Years Ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012
(Dollars in thousands)
 

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
                   
Net income (loss)
  $ 2,442     $ (3,480 )   $ 3,614  
                         
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
                       
Unrealized gain (loss) on securities (pre-tax $3,759, $(5,301) and $2,368, respectively)
    2,409       (3,398 )     1,517  
Reclassification adjustment for securities gains (pre-tax $458, $703 and $737, respectively)
    (293 )     (450 )     (472 )
Reclassification adjustment for impairment charge (pre-tax $7, $- and $34, respectively)
    4       -       22  
Net unrealized holding losses on securities transferred from available-for-sale to held-to-maturity:
                       
Amortization of net unrealized holding
losses during the period
(pre-tax $118, $-, $-, respectively)
    76       -       -  
                         
Total other comprehensive income (loss)
    2,196       (3,848 )     1,067  
                         
Total comprehensive income (loss)
  $ 4,638     $ (7,328 )   $ 4,681  
 
(See notes to consolidated financial statements)
 
 
 
68
 
 
 
Republic First Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
For the Years Ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012
(Dollars in thousands)
   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
Cash flows from operating activities
                 
Net income (loss)
  $ 2,442     $ (3,480 )   $ 3,614  
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
                       
Provision for loan losses
    900       4,935       1,350  
Loss (gain) on sale of other real estate owned
    9       (68 )     10  
Write down of other real estate owned
    1,138       2,567       130  
Depreciation and amortization
    2,382       2,105       2,006  
Deferred income taxes
    (142 )     (304 )     (225 )
Stock based compensation
    420       325       370  
Gain on sale and call of investment securities
    (458 )     (703 )     (737 )
Impairment charges on investment securities
    7       -       34  
Amortization of premiums on investment securities
    540       731       440  
Proceeds from sales of SBA loans originated for sale
    51,388       57,939       56,983  
SBA loans originated for sale
    (43,416 )     (57,450 )     (50,609 )
Gains on sales of SBA loans originated for sale
    (4,717 )     (5,338 )     (5,531 )
Increase in value of bank owned life insurance
    -       (13 )     (73 )
Increase in accrued interest receivable and other assets
    (1,117 )     (363 )     (222 )
Net increase (decrease)  in accrued interest payable and other liabilities
    325       (323 )     (336 )
Net cash provided by operating activities
    9,701       560       7,204  
                         
Cash flows from investing activities
                       
Purchase of investment securities available for sale
    (78,825 )     (62,544 )     (72,464 )
Proceeds from the sale of securities available for sale
    5,700       7,946       25,784  
Proceeds from the maturity or call of securities available for sale
    25,822       32,931       33,670  
Proceeds from the maturity or call of securities held to maturity
    2,308       48       75  
Net redemption of FHLB stock
    413       2,246       1,505  
Net increase in loans
    (105,256 )     (63,870 )     (35,174 )
Net proceeds from sale of other real estate owned
    197       2,600       334  
Surrender proceeds on bank owned life insurance
    -       10,503       -  
Premises and equipment expenditures
    (14,664 )     (2,877 )     (475 )
Net cash used in investing activities
    (164,305 )     (73,017 )     (46,745 )
                         
Cash flows from financing activities
                       
Net proceeds from stock offering
    44,853       -       -  
Net proceeds from exercise of stock options
    1       -       -  
Net increase in demand, money market and savings deposits
    206,163       24,731       30,297  
Net decrease in time deposits
    (3,467 )     (44,398 )     (93,707 )
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
    247,550       (19,667 )     (63,410 )
                         
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
    92,946       (92,124 )     (102,951 )
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year
    35,880       128,004       230,955  
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year
  $ 128,826     $ 35,880     $ 128,004  
                         
Supplemental disclosures:
                       
Interest paid
  $ 4,616     $ 4,654     $ 7,114  
Income taxes paid
  $ 70     $ 235     $ -  
Non-cash transfers from loans to other real estate owned
  $ 1,000     $ 246     $ 2,907  
Transfer of available-for-sale-securities to held-to-maturity securities
  $ 70,118     $ -     $ -  


(See notes to consolidated financial statements)

 
 
 
69
 


Republic First Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity
For the Years Ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012
(Dollars in thousands)

   
 
Common Stock
   
Additional Paid in Capital
   
 
Accumulated Deficit
   
 
Treasury Stock
   
Stock Held by Deferred Compensation Plan
   
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
   
Total Shareholders’ Equity
 
                                           
Balance January 1, 2012
  $ 265     $ 106,383     $ (37,842 )   $ (3,099 )   $ (809 )   $ (47 )   $ 64,851  
                                                         
Net income
                    3,614                               3,614  
Other comprehensive income, net of tax
                                            1,067       1,067  
Stock based compensation
            370                                       370  
                                                         
Balance December 31,  2012
    265       106,753       (34,228 )     (3,099 )     (809 )     1,020       69,902  
                                                         
Net loss
                    (3,480 )                             (3,480 )
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax
                                            (3,848 )     (3,848 )
Stock based compensation
            325                                       325  
                                                         
Balance December 31, 2013
    265       107,078       (37,708 )     (3,099 )     (809 )     (2,828 )     62,899  
                                                         
Net income
                    2,442                               2,442  
Other comprehensive income, net of tax
                                            2,196       2,196  
Proceeds from shares issued under
common stock offering (11,842,106
shares) net of offering costs
    118       44,735                                       44,853  
Stock based compensation
            420                                       420  
Options exercised (500 shares)
    -       1                                       1  
Transfer from deferred compensation
plan to treasury stock (87,105 shares)
                            (626 )     626               -  
                                                         
Balance December 31, 2014
  $ 383     $ 152,234     $ (35,266 )   $ (3,725 )   $ (183 )   $ (632 )   $ 112,811  


(See notes to consolidated financial statements)
 
 
 
70
 
 
Republic First Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

1.
Nature of Operations

Republic First Bancorp, Inc. (“The Company”) is a one-bank holding company organized and incorporated under the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.  It is comprised of one wholly-owned subsidiary, Republic First Bank, which does business under the name of Republic Bank (“Republic”).  Republic is a Pennsylvania state chartered bank that offers a variety of banking services to individuals and businesses throughout the Greater Philadelphia and South Jersey area through its offices and store locations in Philadelphia, Montgomery, Delaware and Camden Counties.  The Company also has three unconsolidated subsidiaries, which are statutory trusts established by the Company in connection with its sponsorship of three separate issuances of trust preferred securities.

The Company and Republic encounter vigorous competition for market share in the geographic areas they serve from bank holding companies, national, regional and other community banks, thrift institutions, credit unions and other non-bank financial organizations, such as mutual fund companies, insurance companies and brokerage companies.

The Company and Republic are subject to federal and state regulations governing virtually all aspects of their activities, including but not limited to, lines of business, liquidity, investments, the payment of dividends and others.  Such regulations and the cost of adherence to such regulations can have a significant impact on earnings and financial condition.

2.
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Basis of Presentation

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Republic. The Company follows accounting standards set by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”).  The FASB sets accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“US GAAP”) that are followed to ensure consistent reporting of financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows. 
 
The Company has evaluated subsequent events through the date of issuance of the financial data included herein.

Risks and Uncertainties and Certain Significant Estimates
 
The earnings of the Company depend primarily on the earnings of Republic.  The earnings of Republic are dependent primarily upon the level of net interest income, which is the difference between interest earned on its interest-earning assets, such as loans and investments, and the interest paid on its interest-bearing liabilities, such as deposits and borrowings. Accordingly, our results of operations are subject to risks and uncertainties surrounding our exposure to changes in the interest rate environment.
 
Prepayments on residential real estate mortgage and other fixed rate loans and mortgage-backed securities vary significantly and may cause significant fluctuations in interest margins.

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with US GAAP requires management to make significant estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
 
 
 
71
 
 
 
Significant estimates are made by management in determining the allowance for loan losses, carrying values of other real estate owned, assessment of other than temporary impairment (“OTTI”) of investment securities, fair value of financial instruments and the realization of deferred income tax assets. Consideration is given to a variety of factors in establishing these estimates.

In estimating the allowance for loan losses, management considers current economic conditions, diversification of the loan portfolio, delinquency statistics, results of internal loan reviews, borrowers’ perceived financial and managerial strengths, the adequacy of underlying collateral, if collateral dependent, or present value of future cash flows, and other relevant factors.  An estimate for the carrying value of other real estate owned is normally derived through appraisals which are updated on a regular basis or through agreements of sale that have been negotiated.  Because the allowance for loan losses and carrying value of other real estate owned are dependent, to a great extent, on the general economy and other conditions that may be beyond the Company’s control, the estimate of the allowance for loan losses and the carrying values of other real estate owned could differ materially in the near term.

In estimating OTTI of investment securities, securities are evaluated on at least a quarterly basis and more frequently when market conditions warrant such an evaluation, to determine whether a decline in their value is other than temporary.  To determine whether a loss in value is other than temporary, management utilizes criteria such as the reasons underlying the decline, the magnitude and duration of the decline, the intent to hold the security and the likelihood of the Company not being required to sell the security prior to an anticipated recovery in the fair value.  The term “other than temporary” is not intended to indicate that the decline is permanent, but indicates that the prospect for a near-term recovery of value is not necessarily favorable, or that there is a lack of evidence to support a realizable value equal to or greater than the carrying value of investment.  Once a decline in value is determined to be other than temporary, the value of the security is reduced by the portion of the decline related to credit impairment.

In evaluating the Company’s ability to recover deferred tax assets, management considers all available positive and negative evidence.   Management also makes assumptions on the amount of future taxable income, the reversal of temporary differences and the implementation of feasible and prudent tax planning strategies.  These assumptions require management to make judgments that are consistent with the plans and estimates used to manage the Company’s business.  As a result of cumulative losses in recent years and the slow and uneven growth in the current economic environment, the Company has decided to currently exclude future taxable income from its analysis of the ability to recover deferred tax assets and has recorded a valuation allowance against its deferred tax assets.  An increase or decrease in the valuation allowance would result in an adjustment to income tax expense in the period and could have a significant impact on the Company’s future earnings.

Significant Group Concentrations of Credit Risk
 
Most of the Company’s activities are with customers located within the Greater Philadelphia region.  Note 3 – Investment Securities discusses the types of investment securities that the Company invests in.  Note 4 – Loans Receivable discusses the types of lending that the Company engages in as well as loan concentrations.  The Company does not have a significant concentration of credit risk with any one customer.

Cash and Cash Equivalents
 
For purposes of the statements of cash flows, the Company considers all cash and due from banks, interest-bearing deposits with an original maturity of ninety days or less and federal funds sold, maturing in ninety days or less, to be cash and cash equivalents.


 
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Restrictions on Cash and Due from Banks
 
Republic is required to maintain certain average reserve balances as established by the Federal Reserve Board. The amounts of those balances for the reserve computation periods that include December 31, 2014 and 2013 were approximately $4.0 million and $3.1 million, respectively. These requirements were satisfied through the restriction of vault cash and a balance at the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia.

Investment Securities
 
Held to Maturity – Certain debt securities that management has the positive intent and ability to hold until maturity are classified as held to maturity and are carried at their remaining unpaid principal balances, net of unamortized premiums or unaccreted discounts.  Premiums are amortized and discounts are accreted using the interest method over the estimated remaining term of the underlying security.
 
Available for Sale – Debt and equity securities that will be held for indefinite periods of time, including securities that may be sold in response to changes in market interest or prepayment rates, needs for liquidity, and changes in the availability of and in the yield of alternative investments, are classified as available for sale.  These assets are carried at fair value.  Unrealized gains and losses are excluded from operations and are reported net of tax as a separate component of other comprehensive income until realized. Realized gains and losses on the sale of investment securities are reported in the consolidated statements of operations and determined using the adjusted cost of the specific security sold on the trade date.

Investment securities are evaluated on at least a quarterly basis, and more frequently when market conditions warrant such an evaluation, to determine whether a decline in their value is other-than-temporary. To determine whether a loss in value is other-than-temporary, management utilizes criteria such as the reasons underlying the decline, the magnitude and duration of the decline, the intent to hold the security and the likelihood of the Company not being required to sell the security prior to an anticipated recovery in the fair value. The term “other-than-temporary” is not intended to indicate that the decline is permanent, but indicates that the prospects for a near-term recovery of value is not necessarily favorable, or that there is a lack of evidence to support a realizable value equal to or greater than the carrying value of the investment. Once a decline in value is determined to be other-than-temporary, the portion of the decline related to credit impairment is charged to earnings. Impairment charges on bank pooled trust preferred securities of $7,000, $0, and $34,000 were recognized during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, as a result of estimated other-than-temporary impairment.

Restricted Stock
 
Restricted stock, which represents a required investment in the capital stock of correspondent banks related to available credit facilities, was carried at cost as of December 31, 2014 and 2013.  As of those dates, restricted stock consisted of investments in the capital stock of the FHLB of Pittsburgh and Atlantic Central Bankers Bank (“ACBB”).  The required investment in the capital stock of the FHLB is calculated based on outstanding loan balances and open credit facilities with the FHLB.  Excess investments are returned to Republic on a quarterly basis.

Loans Receivable

The loans receivable portfolio is segmented into commercial real estate loans, construction and land development loans, commercial and industrial loans, owner occupied real estate loans, consumer and other loans, and residential mortgages.  Consumer loans consist of home equity loans and other consumer loans.
 
 
 
 
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Loans that management has the intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future or until maturity or payoff are stated at the amount of unpaid principal, reduced by unearned income and an allowance for loan losses. Interest on loans is calculated based upon the principal amounts outstanding. The Company defers and amortizes certain origination and commitment fees, and certain direct loan origination costs over the contractual life of the related loan. This results in an adjustment of the related loans yield.
 
The Company accounts for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts related to loans purchased based upon the effective interest method. If a loan prepays in full before the contractual maturity date, any unamortized premiums, discounts or fees are recognized immediately as an adjustment to interest income.

Loans are generally classified as non-accrual if they are past due as to maturity or payment of principal or interest for a period of more than 90 days, unless such loans are well-secured and in the process of collection. Loans that are on a current payment status or past due less than 90 days may also be classified as non-accrual if repayment in full of principal and/or interest is in doubt. Loans may be returned to accrual status when all principal and interest amounts contractually due are reasonably assured of repayment within an acceptable period of time, and there is a sustained period of repayment performance of interest and principal by the borrower, in accordance with the contractual terms. Generally, in the case of non-accrual loans, cash received is applied to reduce the principal outstanding.

Allowance for Credit Losses

The allowance for credit losses consists of the allowance for loan losses and the reserve for unfunded lending commitments.  The allowance for loan losses represents management’s estimate of losses inherent in the loan portfolio as of the balance sheet date and is recorded as a reduction to loans.  The reserve for unfunded lending commitments would represent management’s estimate of losses inherent in its unfunded loan commitments and would be recorded in other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet, if necessary.  The allowance for credit losses is established through a provision for loan losses charged to operations. Loans are charged against the allowance when management believes that the collectability of the loan principal is unlikely. Recoveries on loans previously charged off are credited to the allowance.

The allowance for credit losses is an amount that represents management’s estimate of known and inherent losses related to the loan portfolio and unfunded loan commitments.  Because the allowance for credit losses is dependent, to a great extent, on the general economy and other conditions that may be beyond Republic’s control, the estimate of the allowance for credit losses could differ materially in the near term.

The allowance consists of specific, general and unallocated components.  The specific component relates to loans that are categorized as “internally classified”.  For such loans that are also classified as impaired, an allowance is established when the discounted cash flows (or collateral value or observable market price) of the impaired loan is lower than the carrying value of that loan.  The general component covers non-classified loans and is based on historical loss experience adjusted for qualitative factors.  An unallocated component is maintained to cover uncertainties that could affect management’s estimate of probable losses.  The unallocated component of the allowance reflects the margin of imprecision inherent in the underlying assumptions used in the methodologies for estimating specific and general losses in the portfolio.  All identified losses are immediately charged off and therefore no portion of the allowance for loan losses is restricted to any individual loan or group of loans, and the entire allowance is available to absorb any and all loan losses.


 
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In estimating the allowance for credit losses, management considers current economic conditions, past loss experience, diversification of the loan portfolio, delinquency statistics, results of internal loan reviews and regulatory examinations, borrowers’ perceived financial and managerial strengths, the adequacy of underlying collateral, if collateral dependent, or present value of future cash flows, and other relevant and qualitative risk factors.  These qualitative risk factors include:

 
1)
Lending policies and procedures, including underwriting standards and collection, charge-off and recovery practices.
 
2)
National, regional and local economic and business conditions as well as the condition of various segments.
 
3)
Nature and volume of the portfolio and terms of loans.
 
4)
Experience, ability and depth of lending management and staff.
 
5)
Volume and severity of past due, classified and nonaccrual loans as well as other loan modifications.
 
6)
Quality of the Company’s loan review system, and the degree of oversight by the Company’s Board of Directors.
 
7)
Existence and effect of any concentration of credit and changes in the level of such concentrations.
 
8)
Effect of external factors, such as competition and legal and regulatory requirements.

Each factor is assigned a value to reflect improving, stable or declining conditions based on management’s best judgment using relevant information available at the time of the evaluation.  Adjustments to the factors are supported through documentation of changes in conditions in a narrative accompanying the allowance for loan loss calculation.

A loan is considered impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect the scheduled payments of principal or interest when due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement.  Factors considered by management in determining impairment, include payment status, collateral value, and the probability of collecting scheduled principal and interest payments when due.  Loans that experience insignificant payment delays and payment shortfalls generally are not classified as impaired.  Management determines the significance of payment delays and payment shortfalls on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration all the circumstances surrounding the loan and the borrower, including the length of the delay, the reasons for the delay, the borrower’s prior payment record, and the amount of the shortfall in relation to the principal and interest owed.  Impairment is measured on a loan-by-loan basis for commercial and construction loans by the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate, the loan’s obtainable market price, or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent.

An allowance for loan losses is established for an impaired loan if its carrying value exceeds its estimated fair value.  The estimated fair values of substantially all of the Company’s impaired loans are measured based on the estimated fair value of the loan’s collateral.

For commercial loans secured by real estate, estimated fair values are determined primarily through third-party appraisals.  When a real estate secured loan becomes impaired, a decision is made regarding whether an updated certified appraisal of the real estate is necessary. This decision is based on various considerations, including the age of the most recent appraisal, the loan-to-value ratio based on the original appraisal and the condition of the property.  Appraised values are discounted to arrive at the estimated selling price of the collateral, which is considered to be the estimated fair value.  The discounts also include estimated costs to sell the property.
 
For commercial and industrial loans secured by non-real estate collateral, such as accounts receivable, inventory and equipment, estimated fair values are determined based on the borrower’s financial statements, inventory reports, accounts receivable agings or equipment appraisals or invoices.  Indications of value from these sources are generally discounted based on the age of the financial information or the quality of the assets.
 
 
 
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Large groups of smaller balance homogeneous loans are collectively evaluated for impairment.  Accordingly, the Company does not separately identify individual residential mortgage loans, home equity loans and other consumer loans for impairment disclosures, unless such loans are the subject of a troubled debt restructuring agreement.

Loans whose terms are modified are classified as troubled debt restructurings if the Company grants such borrowers concessions and it is deemed that those borrowers are experiencing financial difficulty.  Concessions granted under a troubled debt restructuring generally involve a temporary reduction in interest rate or an extension of a loan’s stated maturity date.  Non-accrual troubled debt restructurings are restored to accrual status if principal and interest payments, under the modified terms, are current for six consecutive months after modification.  Loans classified as troubled debt restructurings are designated as impaired.

The allowance calculation methodology includes further segregation of loan classes into risk rating categories.  The borrower’s overall financial condition, repayment sources, guarantors and value of collateral, if appropriate, are evaluated annually for commercial loans or when credit deficiencies arise, such as delinquent loan payments, for commercial and consumer loans.  Credit quality risk ratings include regulatory classifications of special mention, substandard, doubtful and loss.  Loans classified special mention have potential weaknesses that deserve management’s close attention.  If uncorrected, the potential weaknesses may result in deterioration of the repayment prospects.  Loans classified substandard have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses that jeopardize the liquidation of the debt.  They include loans that are inadequately protected by the current sound net worth and paying capacity of the obligor or of the collateral pledged, if any.  Loans classified doubtful have all the weaknesses inherent in loans classified substandard with the added characteristic that collection or liquidation in full, on the basis of current conditions and facts, is highly improbable.  Loans classified as a loss are considered uncollectible and are charged to the allowance for loan losses.  Loans not classified are rated pass.

In addition, federal and state regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination process, periodically review the Company’s allowance for loan losses and may require the Company to recognize additions to the allowance based on their judgments about information available to them at the time of their examination, which may not be currently available to management. Based on management’s comprehensive analysis of the loan portfolio, management believes the current level of the allowance for loan losses is adequate.

Transfers of Financial Assets
 
The Company accounts for the transfers and servicing financial assets in accordance with ASC 860 , Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishment of Liabilities . ASC 860 , revises the standards for accounting for the securitizations and other transfers of financial assets and collateral.
 
Transfers of financial assets are accounted for as sales, when control over the assets has been surrendered.  Control over transferred assets is deemed to be surrendered when (1) the assets have been isolated from the Company, (2) the transferee obtains the right (free of conditions that constrain it from taking advantage of that right) to pledge or exchange the transferred assets, and (3) the Company does not maintain effective control over the transferred assets through an agreement to repurchase them before their maturity.

Loans Held for Sale

Loans held for sale consist of the guaranteed portion of SBA loans that the Company intends to sell after origination and are reflected at the lower of aggregate cost or fair value. When the sale of the loan occurs, the premium received is combined with the estimated present value of future cash flows on the related servicing asset and recorded as a Gain on the Sale of SBA loans which is categorized as non-interest income. Subsequent fees collected for servicing of the sold portion of a loan are combined with fair value adjustments to the SBA servicing asset and recorded as a net amount in Loan Advisory and Servicing Fees, which is also categorized as non-interest income.
 
 
 
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Guarantees
 
The Company accounts for guarantees in accordance with ASC 815 Guarantor’s Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for Guarantees, including Indirect Guarantees of Indebtedness of Others .  ASC 815   requires a guarantor entity, at the inception of a guarantee covered by the measurement provisions of the interpretation, to record a liability for the fair value of the obligation undertaken in issuing the guarantee.  The Company has financial and performance letters of credit.  Financial letters of credit require the Company to make payment if the customer’s financial condition deteriorates, as defined in the agreements.   Performance letters of credit require the Company to make payments if the customer fails to perform certain non-financial contractual obligations.  The maximum potential undiscounted amount of future payments of these letters of credit as of December 31, 2014 is $3.8 million and they expire as follows: $2.7 million in 2015, $1.0 million in 2019, and $135,000 in 2020.  Amounts due under these letters of credit would be reduced by any proceeds that the Company would be able to obtain in liquidating the collateral for the loans, which varies depending on the customer.

Premises and Equipment
 
Premises and equipment (including land) are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation of furniture and equipment is calculated over the estimated useful life of the asset using the straight-line method for financial reporting purposes, and accelerated methods for income tax purposes. The estimated useful lives are 40 years for buildings and 3 to 13 years for furniture, fixtures and equipment.  Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of their estimated useful lives or terms of their respective leases, which range from 1 to 30 years. Repairs and maintenance are charged to current operations as incurred, and renewals and major improvements are capitalized.

Other Real Estate Owned
 
Other real estate owned consists of assets acquired through, or in lieu of, loan foreclosure.  They are held for sale and are initially recorded at fair value less cost to sell at the date of foreclosure, establishing a new cost basis.  Subsequent to foreclosure, valuations are periodically performed by management and the assets are carried at the lower of carrying amount or fair value, less the cost to sell.  Revenue and expenses from operations and changes in the valuation allowance are included in net expenses from other real estate owned.

Advertising Costs
 
It is the Company’s policy to expense advertising costs in the period in which they are incurred.

Income Taxes
 
Income tax accounting guidance results in two components of income tax expense: current and deferred.  Current income tax expense reflects taxes to be paid or refunded for the current period by applying the provisions of the enacted tax law to the taxable income or excess of deductions over revenues.  The Company determines deferred income taxes using the liability (or balance sheet) method.  Under this method, the net deferred tax asset or liability is based on the tax effects of the differences between the book and tax bases of assets and liabilities and enacted changes in tax rates and laws are recognized in the period in which they occur.
 
 
 
 
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Deferred income tax expense results from changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities between periods.  Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance if, based on the weight of the evidence available, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of a deferred tax asset will not be realized.

The Company accounts for uncertain tax positions if it is more likely than not, based on the technical merits, that the tax position will be realized or sustained upon examination.  The term more likely than not means a likelihood of more than 50 percent; the terms examined and upon examination also include resolution of the related appeals or litigation processes, if any.  A tax position that meets the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold is initially and subsequently measured as the largest amount of tax benefit that has a greater than 50 percent likelihood of being realized upon settlement with a taxing authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information.  The determination of whether or not a tax position has met the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold considers the facts, circumstances, and information available at the reporting date and is subject to management’s judgment.

The Company recognizes interest and penalties on income taxes, if any, as a component of the provision for income taxes.

Stock Based Compensation
 
The Company has a Stock Option and Restricted Stock Plan (“Plan”), under which stock options, restricted stock or stock appreciation rights may be granted to the Company’s employees, directors, and certain consultants.  Under the terms of the Plan, 1.5 million shares of common stock, plus an annual increase equal to the number of shares needed to restore the maximum number of shares that may be available for grant under the Plan to 1.5 million shares, are available for such grants.  As of December 31, 2014, the only grants under the Plan have been option grants.  The Plan provides that the exercise price of each option granted equals the market price of the Company’s stock on the date of grant.  Options granted pursuant to the Plan vest within one to four years from the date of grant and have a maximum term of 10 years. The Plan terminates pursuant to its terms on November 14, 2015.

On April 29, 2014, the Company’s shareholders approved the 2014 Republic First Bancorp, Inc. Equity Incentive Plan (the “2014 Plan”), under which the Company may grant options, restricted stock, stock units, or stock appreciation rights to the Company’s employees, directors, independent contractors, and consultants.  Under the terms of the 2014 Plan, 2.6 million shares of common stock, plus an annual adjustment to be no less than 10% of the outstanding shares or such lower number as the Board of Directors may determine, are available for such grants.

Earnings Per Share
 
Earnings per share (“EPS”) consists of two separate components, basic EPS and diluted EPS. Basic EPS is computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for each period presented. Diluted EPS is calculated by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding plus dilutive common stock equivalents (“CSE”). CSEs consist of dilutive stock options granted through the Company’s Plan and convertible securities related to trust preferred securities issued in 2008.  In the diluted EPS computation, the after tax interest expense on the trust preferred securities issuance is added back to the net income.  In 2014, 2013, and 2012, the effect of CSEs (convertible securities related to the trust preferred securities only) and the related add back of after tax interest expense was considered anti-dilutive and therefore was not included in the EPS calculations.
 
 
 
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The calculation of EPS for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 is as follows:
 
             
(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)
 
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
                   
Net income (loss) - basic and diluted
  $ 2,442     $ (3,480 )   $ 3,614  
                         
Weighted average shares outstanding
    34,232       25,973       25,973  
                         
Net income (loss) per share – basic
  $ 0.07     $ (0.13 )   $ 0.14  
                         
Weighted average shares outstanding (including dilutive CSEs)
    34,591       25,973       25,992  
                         
Net income (loss) per share – diluted
  $ 0.07     $ (0.13 )   $ 0.14  

  Comprehensive Income / (Loss)

The Company presents as a component of comprehensive income (loss) the amounts from transactions and other events, which currently are excluded from the consolidated statements of operations and are recorded directly to shareholders’ equity.  These amounts consist of unrealized holding gains (losses) on available for sale securities.
 
Trust Preferred Securities

The Company has sponsored three outstanding issues of corporation-obligated mandatorily redeemable capital securities of a subsidiary trust holding solely junior subordinated debentures of the corporation, more commonly known as trust preferred securities. The subsidiary trusts are not consolidated with the Company for financial reporting purposes.  The purpose of the issuances of these securities was to increase capital.  The trust preferred securities qualify as Tier 1 capital for regulatory purposes in amounts up to 25% of total Tier 1 capital.  See Note 7 “Borrowings” for further information regarding the issuances.
 
Variable Interest Entities
 
The Company follows the guidance under ASC 810, Consolidation , with regard to variable interest entities.  ASC 810 clarifies the application of consolidation principles for certain legal entities in which voting rights are not effective in identifying the investor with the controlling financial interest. An entity is subject to consolidation under ASC 810 if the investors do not have sufficient equity at risk for the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support, are unable to direct the entity’s activities, or are not exposed to the entity’s losses or entitled to its residual returns ("variable interest entities"). Variable interest entities within the scope of ASC 810 will be required to be consolidated by their primary beneficiary. The primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity is determined to be the party that absorbs a majority of the entity's expected losses, receives a majority of its expected returns, or both.

The Company does not consolidate its subsidiary trusts.  ASC 810 precludes consideration of the call option embedded in the preferred securities when determining if the Company has the right to a majority of the trusts’ expected residual returns. The non-consolidation results in the investment in the common securities of the trusts to be included in other assets with a corresponding increase in outstanding debt of $676,000. In addition, the income received on the Company’s investment in the common securities of the trusts is included in other income.
 
 

 
 
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  Recent Accounting Pronouncements

ASU 2014-04

In January 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-04, “Receivables – Troubled Debt Restructuring by Creditors (Subtopic 310-40): Reclassification of Residential Real Estate Collateralized Consumer Mortgage Loans Upon Foreclosure – a consensus of the FASB Emerging Issues Task Force.  The guidance clarifies when a creditor should be considered to have received physical possession of residential real estate property collateralizing a consumer mortgage loan such that the loan should be derecognized and the real estate property recognized.  For public business entities, the ASU is effective for annual periods, and interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2014. For entities other than public business entities, the ASU is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2014, and interim periods within annual periods beginning after December 15, 2015.  The Company does not believe the adoption of the amendment to this guidance will have a material impact on the financial statements.

ASU 2014-09

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 660): Summary and Amendments that Create Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) and Other Assets and Deferred Costs – Contracts with Customers (Subtopic 340-40).”  The purpose of this guidance is to clarify the principles for recognizing revenue.  The guidance in this update supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in ASC Topic 605, Revenue Recognition, and most industry-specific guidance throughout the industry topics of the codification.  For public companies, this update will be effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016.  The Company is currently assessing the impact that this guidance will have on its consolidated financial statements, but does not expect a material impact.

ASU 2014-14

In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-14, “Receivables – Troubled Debt Restructurings by Creditors (Subtopic 310-40): Classification of Certain Government-Guaranteed Mortgage Loans upon Foreclosure - a consensus of the FASB Emerging Issues Task Force.”     The amendments in this Update address a practice issue related to the classification of certain foreclosed residential and nonresidential mortgage loans that are either fully or partially guaranteed under government programs. Specifically, creditors should reclassify loans that meet certain conditions to "other receivables" upon foreclosure, rather than reclassifying them to other real estate owned (OREO). The separate other receivable recorded upon foreclosure is to be measured based on the amount of the loan balance (principal and interest) the creditor expects to recover from the guarantor. The ASU is effective for public business entities for annual periods, and interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2014. For all other entities, the amendments are effective for annual periods ending after December 15, 2015, and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2015. The Company is currently assessing the impact that this guidance will have on its consolidated financial statements, but does not expect a material impact.

Reclassifications
 
Certain reclassifications have been made to 2013 and 2012 information to conform to the 2014 presentation.  The reclassifications had no effect on results of operations.



 
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3.
Investment Securities

A summary of the amortized cost and market value of securities available for sale and securities held to maturity at December 31, 2014 and 2013 is as follows:

   
At December 31, 2014
 
 
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
Amortized
Cost
   
Gross Unrealized Gains
   
Gross Unrealized Losses
   
Fair
Value
 
                         
Collateralized mortgage obligations
  $ 98,626     $ 692     $ (96 )   $ 99,222  
Mortgage-backed securities
    13,271       564       (33 )     13,802  
Municipal securities
    15,784       363       (40 )     16,107  
Corporate bonds
    33,840       621       (34 )     34,427  
Asset-backed securities
    18,353       152       -       18,505  
Trust preferred securities
    5,261       -       (2,068 )     3,193  
Other securities
    115       8       -       123  
Total securities available for sale
  $ 185,250     $ 2,400     $ (2,271 )   $ 185,379  
                                 
U.S. Government agencies
  $ 1     $ -     $ -     $ 1  
Collateralized mortgage obligations
    67,845       531       (144 )     68,232  
Other securities
    20       -       -       20  
Total securities held to maturity
  $ 67,866     $ 531     $ (144 )   $ 68,253  

   
At December 31, 2013
 
 
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
Amortized
Cost
   
Gross Unrealized Gains
   
Gross Unrealized Losses
   
Fair
Value
 
                         
Collateralized mortgage obligations
  $ 127,242     $ 665     $ (4,467 )   $ 123,440  
Mortgage-backed securities
    15,669       623       (111 )     16,181  
Municipal securities
    9,737       68       (162 )     9,643  
Corporate bonds
    32,174       1,079       -       33,253  
Asset-backed securities
    19,089       318       -       19,407  
Trust preferred securities
    5,277       -       (2,427 )     2,850  
Other securities
    115       2       -       117  
Total securities available for sale
  $ 209,303     $ 2,755     $ (7,167 )   $ 204,891  
                                 
U.S. Government agencies
  $ 1     $ -     $ -     $ 1  
Other securities
    20       -       -       20  
Total securities held to maturity
  $ 21     $ -     $ -     $ 21  

The maturity distribution of the amortized cost and estimated market value of investment securities by contractual maturity at December 31, 2014 is as follows:
 
   
Available for Sale
   
Held to Maturity
 
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
Amortized
Cost
   
Fair
Value
   
Amortized
Cost
   
Fair
Value
 
                         
Due in 1 year or less
  $ 15,105     $ 15,291     $ -     $ -  
After 1 year to 5 years
    70,661       71,584       40,604       40,974  
After 5 years to 10 years
    88,885       87,663       27,262       27,279  
After 10 years
    10,599       10,841       -       -  
Total
  $ 185,250     $ 185,379     $ 67,866     $ 68,253  
 
 

 
 
81
 
 
Expected maturities will differ from contractual maturities because borrowers have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without prepayment penalties.
 
As of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the collateralized mortgage obligations and mortgage backed securities included in the investment securities portfolio consist solely of securities issued by U.S. government sponsored agencies.  There were no private label mortgage securities held in the investment securities portfolio as of those dates. The Company did not hold any mortgage-backed securities that were rated “Alt-A” or “Subprime” as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013.  In addition, the Company did not hold any private label CMO’s as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013.  As of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the asset-backed securities held in the investment securities portfolio consist solely of Sallie Mae bonds collateralized by student loans which are guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Education.
 
In instances when a determination is made that an other-than-temporary impairment exists with respect to a debt security but the investor does not intend to sell the debt security and it is more likely than not that the investor will not be required to sell the debt security prior to its anticipated recovery, accounting standards require the other-than-temporary impairment to be separated into (a) the amount of the total other-than-temporary impairment related to a decrease in cash flows expected to be collected from the debt security (the credit loss) and (b) the amount of the total other-than-temporary impairment related to all other factors.  The amount of the total other-than-temporary impairment related to other factors is recognized in other comprehensive income. Impairment charges (credit losses) on trust preferred securities for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 amounted to $7,000, $0 and $34,000, respectively.

 The Company realized gross gains on the sale of securities of $458,000 in 2014.  The related sale proceeds amounted to $5.7 million.  The tax provision applicable to these gross gains in 2014 amounted to approximately $165,000.  The Company realized gross gains on the sale of securities of $703,000 in 2013.  The related sale proceeds amounted to $7.9 million.  The tax provision applicable to these gross gains in 2013 amounted to approximately $253,000.  The Company realized gross gains on the sale of securities of $737,000 in 2012.  The related sale proceeds amounted to $25.8 million.  The tax provision applicable to these gross gains in 2012 amounted to approximately $265,000.

At December 31, 2014 and 2013, investment securities in the amount of approximately $149.0 million and $113.1 million, respectively, were pledged as collateral for public deposits and certain other deposits as required by law.

The following table presents a roll-forward of the balance of credit-related impairment losses on securities held at December 31, 2014 and 2013 for which a portion of OTTI was recognized in other comprehensive income:
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
2014
   
2013
 
             
Beginning Balance, January 1 st
  $ 3,959     $ 3,959  
Additional credit-related impairment loss on securities for which an
               
other-than-temporary impairment was previously recognized
    7       -  
Reductions for securities paid off during the period
    -       -  
Reductions for securities for which the amount previously recognized in other
               
comprehensive income was recognized in earnings because the Company
               
intends to sell the security
    -       -  
Ending Balance, December 31 st
  $ 3,966     $ 3,959  



 
82
 


The following tables show the fair value and gross unrealized losses associated with the investment portfolio, aggregated by investment category and length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position as of December 31, 2014 and 2013:

   
At December 31, 2014
 
   
Less than 12 months
   
12 months or more
   
Total
 
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
Fair
Value
   
Unrealized
Losses
   
Fair
Value
   
Unrealized
Losses
   
Fair
Value
   
Unrealized
Losses
 
                                     
Collateralized  mortgage obligations
  $ 17,331     $ 96     $ -     $ -     $ 17,331     $ 96  
Mortgage-backed securities
    3,997       2       1,069       31       5,066       33  
Municipal securities
    1,298       10       1,395       30       2,693       40  
Corporate bonds
    4,880       34       -       -       4,880       34  
Trust preferred securities
    -       -       3,193       2,068       3,193       2,068  
Total Available for Sale
  $ 27,506     $ 142     $ 5,657     $ 2,129     $ 33,163     $ 2,271  

      At December 31, 2014  
      Less than 12 months  
12 months or more
 
Total
 
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
Fair
Value
   
Unrealized
Losses
   
Fair
Value
   
Unrealized
Losses
   
Fair
Value
   
Unrealized
Losses
 
                                     
Collateralized mortgage obligations
  $ 19,766       92     $ 9,232       52     $ 28,998       144  
Total Held to Maturity
  $ 19,766     $ 92     $ 9,232     $ 52     $ 28,998     $ 144  
 
   
At December 31, 2013
 
   
Less than 12 months
   
12 months or more
   
Total
 
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
Fair
Value
   
Unrealized
Losses
   
Fair
Value
   
Unrealized
Losses
   
Fair
Value
   
Unrealized
Losses
 
                                     
Collateralized  mortgage obligations
  $ 73,137     $ 3,923     $ 8,697     $ 544     $ 81,834     $ 4,467  
Mortgage-backed securities
    1,450       41       1,123       70       2,573       111  
Municipal securities
    5,108       162       -       -       5,108       162  
Trust preferred securities
    -       -       2,850       2,427       2,850       2,427  
Total Available for Sale
  $ 79,695     $ 4,126     $ 12,670     $ 3,041     $ 92,365     $ 7,167  


The impairment of the investment portfolio totaled $2.4 million with a total fair value of $62.2 million at December 31, 2014.  The most significant components of this impairment are related to the trust preferred securities and collateralized mortgage obligations held in the portfolio. The unrealized losses on the CMO’s are primarily related to the recent movement in market interest rates rather than the underlying credit quality of the issuers.   The Company does not currently intend to sell these securities prior to maturity or recovering the cost bases and does not believe it will be forced to sell these securities prior to maturity or recovering the cost bases.
 
 
At December 31, 2014, the investment portfolio included thirty-four collateralized mortgage obligations with a total market value of $167.5 million.  Nine of these securities carried an unrealized loss at December 31, 2014.  At December 31, 2014, the investment portfolio included forty-three mortgage-backed securities with a total market value of $13.8 million.  Two of these securities carried an unrealized loss at December 31, 2014. Management found no evidence of OTTI on any of these securities and the unrealized losses are due to changes in market value resulting from changes in market interest rates and are considered temporary as of December 31, 2014.

The unrealized losses on the trust preferred securities are primarily the result of the secondary market for such securities becoming inactive and are also considered temporary at this time.



 
83
 



The following table provides additional detail about trust preferred securities as of December 31, 2014.
 
(dollars in thousands)
Class / Tranche
Amortized Cost
Fair
Value
Unrealized Losses
Lowest Credit Rating Assigned
Number of Banks Currently Performing
Deferrals / Defaults as % of Current Balance
 
Conditional Default Rates for 2013 and beyond
Cumulative OTTI Life to Date
Preferred Term Securities IV
Mezzanine Notes
$
49
$
41
$
(8)
B1
6
18%
0.31%
$
-
Preferred Term Securities VII
Mezzanine Notes
 
979
 
890
 
(89)
D
11
54
0.36
 
2,173
TPREF Funding II
Class B Notes
 
732
 
372
 
(360)
C
18
41
0.35
 
267
TPREF Funding III
Class B2 Notes
 
1,521
 
752
 
(769)
C
15
36
0.27
 
480
Trapeza CDO I, LLC
Class C1 Notes
 
556
 
312
 
(244)
C
9
49
0.29
 
470
ALESCO Preferred Funding IV
Class B1 Notes
 
604
 
402
 
(202)
C
40
8
0.31
 
396
ALESCO Preferred    Funding V
Class C1 Notes
 
820
 
424
 
(396)
C
41
15
0.35
 
180
Total
 
 $
5,261
 $
3,193
 $
(2,068)
 
140
30%
 
 $
3,966


At December 31, 2014, the investment portfolio included twenty-eight municipal securities with a total market value of $16.1 million.  Three of these securities carried an unrealized loss at December 31, 2014.  Each of the municipal securities are reviewed quarterly for impairment. Research on each issuer is completed to ensure the financial stability of the municipal entity. The largest geographic concentration was in Pennsylvania and New Jersey where twenty-one municipal securities had a market value of $11.6 million.  As of December 31, 2014, management found no evidence of OTTI on any of the municipal securities held in the investment securities portfolio.

 In July 2014, thirteen CMOs with a fair value of $70.1 million that were previously classified as available-for-sale were transferred to the held-to-maturity category.  These securities were transferred at fair value.  Unrealized losses of $1.2 million associated with the transferred securities will remain in other comprehensive income and be amortized as an adjustment to yield over the remaining life of those securities.  At December 31, 2014, the fair market value of the securities transferred to held-for-maturity is $68.2 million and the unrealized losses are $728,000.



 
84
 
 


4.
Loans Receivable

The following table sets forth the Company’s gross loans by major categories as of December 31, 2014 and 2013:
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
December 31, 2014
   
December 31, 2013
 
             
Commercial real estate
  $ 379,259     $ 342,794  
Construction and land development
    29,861       23,977  
Commercial and industrial
    145,113       118,209  
Owner occupied real estate
    188,025       160,229  
Consumer and other
    39,713       31,981  
Residential mortgage
    408       2,359  
Total loans receivable
    782,379       679,549  
Deferred costs (fees)
    (439 )     (238 )
Allowance for loan losses
    (11,536 )     (12,263 )
Net loans receivable
  $ 770,404     $ 667,048  

 
A loan is considered impaired, in accordance with ASC 310 Receivables , when based on current information and events, it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect all amounts due from the borrower in accordance with the contractual terms of the loan.  Impaired loans include nonperforming commercial loans, but also include internally classified accruing loans. 
 

 
The following table summarizes information with regard to impaired loans by loan portfolio class as of December 31, 2014 and 2013:

   
December 31, 2014
   
December 31, 2013
 
 
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
Recorded Investment
   
Unpaid Principal Balance
   
Related Allowance
   
Recorded Investment
   
Unpaid Principal Balance
   
Related Allowance
 
With no related allowance recorded:
 
Commercial real estate
  $ 11,964     $ 11,969     $ -     $ 6,850     $ 6,971     $ -  
Construction and land development
    61       158       -       902       4,076       -  
Commercial and industrial
    3,764       7,275       -       2,043       2,882       -  
Owner occupied real estate
    524       528       -       542       862       -  
Consumer and other
    429       708       -       453       711       -  
Total
  $ 16,742     $ 20,638     $ -     $ 10,790     $ 15,502     $ -  

With an allowance recorded:
 
Commercial real estate
  $ 13,118     $ 13,245     $ 3,858     $ 13,044     $ 13,044     $ 3,679  
Construction and land development
    316       3,741       217       716       3,867       237  
Commercial and industrial
    1,457       2,057       211       4,889       7,634       1,254  
Owner occupied real estate
    4,011       4,162       844       2,891       2,891       430  
Consumer and other
    -       -       -       203       210       10  
Total
  $ 18,902     $ 23,205     $ 5,130     $ 21,743     $ 27,646     $ 5,610  

Total:
 
Commercial real estate
  $ 25,082     $ 25,214     $ 3,858     $ 19,894     $ 20,015     $ 3,679  
Construction and land development
    377       3,899       217       1,618       7,943       237  
Commercial and industrial
    5,221       9,332       211       6,932       10,516       1,254  
Owner occupied real estate
    4,535       4,690       844       3,433       3,753       430  
Consumer and other
    429       708       -       656       921       10  
Total
  $ 35,644     $ 43,843     $ 5,130     $ 32,533     $ 43,148     $ 5,610  
      
 
 
85
 
 
 
The following table presents additional information regarding the Company’s impaired loans for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013:
 
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
 
2014
 
2013
 
 
 
(dollars in thousands)
Average Recorded Investment
 
Interest Income Recognized
 
Average Recorded Investment
 
Interest Income Recognized
 
With no related allowance recorded:
               
Commercial real estate
  $ 7,739     $ 450     $ 14,062     $ 731  
Construction and land development
    462       -       1,954       35  
Commercial and industrial
    3,070       22       2,783       19  
Owner occupied real estate
    714       8       347       9  
Consumer and other
    482       4       651       6  
Total
  $ 12,467     $ 484     $ 19,797     $ 800  
 
With an allowance recorded:
                       
Commercial real estate
  $ 13,197     $ 5     $ 6,261     $ 195  
Construction and land development
    557       -       499       -  
Commercial and industrial
    3,244       -       3,881       40  
Owner occupied real estate
    3,446       125       3,139       146  
Consumer and other
    40       -       110       -  
Total
  $ 20,484     $ 130     $ 13,890     $ 381  

Total:
                       
Commercial real estate
  $ 20,936     $ 455     $ 20,323     $ 926  
Construction and land development
    1,019       -       2,453       35  
Commercial and industrial
    6,314       22       6,664       59  
Owner occupied real estate
    4,160       133       3,486       155  
Consumer and other
    522       4       761       6  
Total
  $ 32,951     $ 614     $ 33,687     $ 1,181  


The total average recorded investment on the Company’s impaired loans for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 were $33.0 million, $33.7 million, and $40.8 million, respectively,  and the related interest income recognized for those dates was $614,000, $1.2 million, and $1.6 million, respectively.  If these loans were performing under their original contractual rate, interest income on such loans would have increased approximately $980,000, $488,000, and $699,000 for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.
 

 
 
86
 

 
Included in loans are loans due from directors and other related parties of $8.8 million, $8.8 million, and $9.1 million at December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.  All loans made to directors have substantially the same terms and interest rates as other bank borrowers.  The Board of Directors approves loans to individual directors to confirm that collateral requirements, terms and rates are comparable to other borrowers and are in compliance with underwriting policies.  The following presents the activity in amount due from directors and other related parties for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.

 
(dollars in thousands)
 
December 31, 2014
   
December 31, 2013
   
December 31, 2012
 
Balance at beginning of year
  $ 8,762     $ 9,128     $ 16,941  
Additions
    500       51       259  
Repayments
    (509 )     (417 )     (8,072 )
Balance at end of year
  $ 8,753     $ 8,762     $ 9,128  
 
 
5.    Allowances for Loan Losses

The following tables provide the activity in and ending balances of the allowance for loan losses by loan portfolio class at and for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012:

 
 
(dollars in thousands)
Commercial Real Estate
 
Construction and Land Development
 
Commercial and Industrial
 
Owner Occupied Real Estate
 
Consumer and Other
 
Residential Mortgage
 
Unallocated
 
Total
 
   
Year ended December, 2014
 
Allowance for loan losses:
 
   
Beginning balance:
  $ 6,454     $ 1,948     $ 2,309     $ 985     $ 225     $ 14     $ 328     $ 12,263  
Charge-offs
    (364 )     (303 )     (1,185 )     (150 )     (10 )     -       -       (2,012 )
Recoveries
    5       214       166       -       -       -       -       385  
Provisions (credits)
    733       (942 )     289       803       19       (12 )     10       900  
                                                                 
Ending balance
  $ 6,828     $ 917     $ 1,579     $ 1,638     $ 234     $ 2     $ 338     $ 11,536  
   
Year ended December, 2013
 
Allowance for loan losses:
 
   
Beginning Balance:
  $ 3,979     $ 1,273     $ 1,880     $ 1,967     $ 234     $ 17     $ 192     $ 9,542  
Charge-offs
    (1,291 )     (60 )     (611 )     (320 )     (75 )     -       -       (2,357 )
Recoveries
    54       -       63       -       26       -       -       143  
Provisions (credits)
    3,712       735       977       (662 )     40       (3 )     136       4,935  
                                                                 
Ending balance
  $ 6,454     $ 1,948     $ 2,309     $ 985     $ 225     $ 14     $ 328     $ 12,263  
                                                                 
Year ended December, 2012
                                                               
Allowance for loan losses:
                                                               
                                                                 
Beginning Balance:
  $ 7,372     $ 558     $ 1,928     $ 1,963     $ 113     $ 23     $ 93     $ 12,050  
Charge-offs
    (1,582 )     (1,004 )     (1,304 )     -       (102 )     -       -       (3,992 )
Recoveries
    -       105       -       -       29       -       -       134  
Provisions (credits)
    (1,811 )     1,614       1,256       4       194       (6 )     99       1,350  
                                                                 
Ending balance
  $ 3,979     $ 1,273     $ 1,880     $ 1,967     $ 234     $ 17     $ 192     $ 9,542  


 
87
 

The following tables provide a summary of the allowance for loan losses and balance of loans receivable by loan class and by impairment method as of December 31, 2014 and 2013:

 
 
(dollars in thousands)
Commercial Real Estate
 
Construction and Land Development
 
Commercial and Industrial
 
Owner Occupied Real Estate
 
Consumer and Other
 
Residential Mortgage
 
 
Unallocated
 
 
Total
 
                                 
December 31, 2014
                               
                                 
Allowance for loan losses:
                               
Individually evaluated for impairment
  $ 3,858     $ 217     $ 211     $ 844     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ 5,130  
Collectively evaluated for impairment
    2,970       700       1,368       794       234       2       338       6,406  
                                                                 
Total allowance for loan losses
  $ 6,828     $ 917     $ 1,579     $ 1,638     $ 234     $ 2     $ 338     $ 11,536  
                                                                 
Loans receivable:
                                                               
Loans evaluated individually
  $ 25,082     $ 377     $ 5,221     $ 4,535     $ 429     $ -     $ -     $ 35,644  
Loans evaluated collectively
    354,177       29,484       139,892       183,490       39,284       408       -       746,735  
                                                                 
Total loans receivable
  $ 379,259     $ 29,861     $ 145,113     $ 188,025     $ 39,713     $ 408     $ -     $ 782,379  
 
 
 
(dollars in thousands)
Commercial Real Estate
 
Construction and Land Development
 
Commercial and Industrial
 
Owner Occupied Real Estate
 
Consumer and Other
 
Residential Mortgage
 
 
Unallocated
 
 
Total
 
                                 
December 31, 2013
                               
                                 
Allowance for loan losses:
                               
Individually evaluated for impairment
  $ 3,679     $ 237     $ 1,254     $ 430     $ 10     $ -     $ -     $ 5,610  
Collectively evaluated for impairment
    2,775       1,711       1,055       555       215       14       328       6,653  
                                                                 
Total allowance for loan losses
  $ 6,454     $ 1,948     $ 2,309     $ 985     $ 225     $ 14     $ 328     $ 12,263  
                                                                 
Loans receivable:
                                                               
Loans evaluated individually
  $ 19,894     $ 1,618     $ 6,932     $ 3,433     $ 656     $ -     $ -     $ 32,533  
Loans evaluated collectively
    322,900       22,359       111,277       156,796       31,325       2,359       -       647,016  
                                                                 
Total loans receivable
  $ 342,794     $ 23,977     $ 118,209     $ 160,229     $ 31,981     $ 2,359     $ -     $ 679,549  



 
88
 

 

The performance and credit quality of the loan portfolio is also monitored by analyzing the age of the loans receivable as determined by the length of time a recorded payment is past due.  The following table presents the classes of the loan portfolio summarized by the past due status as of December 31, 2014 and 2013:
 
 
 
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
30-59
Days Past Due
   
60-89
Days Past Due
   
 
Greater than 90 Days
   
 
Total
Past Due
   
 
 
Current
   
Total
Loans Receivable
   
Loans Receivable > 90 Days and Accruing
 
At December 31, 2014
                                         
Commercial real estate
  $ 713     $ 11,034     $ 13,979     $ 25,726     $ 353,533     $ 379,259     $ -  
Construction and land development
    -       -       377       377       29,484       29,861       -  
Commercial and industrial
    193       2,186       4,349       6,728       138,385       145,113       -  
Owner occupied real estate
    626       812       2,306       3,744       184,281       188,025       -  
Consumer and other
    149       30       429       608       39,105       39,713       -  
Residential mortgage
    -       -       -       -       408       408       -  
Total
  $ 1,681     $ 14,062     $ 21,440     $ 37,183     $ 745,196     $ 782,379     $ -  

 
 
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
30-59
Days Past Due
   
60-89
Days Past Due
   
 
Greater than 90 Days
   
 
Total
Past Due
   
 
 
Current
   
Total
Loans Receivable
   
Loans Receivable > 90 Days and Accruing
 
At December 31, 2013
                                         
Commercial real estate
  $ 19,707     $ 5,635     $ 1,104     $ 26,446     $ 316,348     $ 342,794     $ -  
Construction and land development
    -       -       1,618       1,618       22,359       23,977       -  
Commercial and industrial
    951       71       6,837       7,859       110,350       118,209       -  
Owner occupied real estate
    808       1,281       205       2,294       157,935       160,229       -  
Consumer and other
    38       -       656       694       31,287       31,981       -  
Residential mortgage
    -       -       -       -       2,359       2,359       -  
Total
  $ 21,504     $ 6,987     $ 10,420     $ 38,911     $ 640,638     $ 679,549     $ -  


The following table presents the classes of the loan portfolio summarized by the aggregate pass rating and the classified ratings of special mention, substandard and doubtful within our internal risk rating system as of December 31, 2014 and 2013:

 
(dollars in thousands)
 
Pass
   
Special Mention
   
Substandard
   
Doubtful
   
Total
 
At December 31, 2014:
                             
Commercial real estate
  $ 345,444     $ 8,199     $ 25,616     $ -     $ 379,259  
Construction and land development
    29,484       -       377       -       29,861  
Commercial and industrial
    139,062       702       3,920       1,429       145,113  
Owner occupied real estate
    181,940       1,550       4,535       -       188,025  
Consumer and other
    38,951       75       687       -       39,713  
Residential mortgage
    408       -       -       -       408  
Total
  $ 735,289     $ 10,526     $ 35,135     $ 1,429     $ 782,379  

 
(dollars in thousands)
 
Pass
   
Special Mention
   
Substandard
   
Doubtful
   
Total
 
At December 31, 2013:
                             
Commercial real estate
  $ 305,974     $ 16,372     $ 20,448     $ -     $ 342,794  
Construction and land development
    22,359       -       1,618       -       23,977  
Commercial and industrial
    110,629       611       6,969       -       118,209  
Owner occupied real estate
    155,648       1,485       3,096       -       160,229  
Consumer and other
    30,993       75       913       -       31,981  
Residential mortgage
    2,359       -       -       -       2,359  
Total
  $ 627,962     $ 18,543     $ 33,044     $ -     $ 679,549  
 
 
 
 
89
 

 
The following table shows non-accrual loans by class as of December 31, 2014 and 2013:

(dollars in thousands)
 
December 31, 2014
   
December 31, 2013
 
             
Commercial real estate
  $ 13,979     $ 1,104  
Construction and land development
    377       1,618  
Commercial and industrial
    4,349       6,837  
Owner occupied real estate
    2,306       205  
Consumer and other
    429       656  
Residential mortgage
    -       -  
Total
  $ 21,440     $ 10,420  

If these loans were performing under their original contractual rate, interest income on such loans would have increased approximately $980,000, $488,000, and $699,000, for 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.  

Troubled Debt Restructurings

A modification to the contractual terms of a loan which results in a concession to a borrower that is experiencing financial difficulty is classified as a troubled debt restructuring (“TDR”).  The concessions made in a TDR are those that would not otherwise be considered for a borrower or collateral with similar risk characteristics.  A TDR is typically the result of efforts to minimize potential losses that may be incurred during loan workouts, foreclosure, or repossession of collateral at a time when collateral values are declining.  Concessions include a reduction in interest rate below current market rates, a material extension of time to the loan term or amortization period, partial forgiveness of the outstanding principal balance, acceptance of interest only payments for a period of time, or a combination of any of these conditions.

The following table summarizes information with regard to outstanding troubled debt restructurings at December 31, 2014 and 2013:

 
(dollars in thousands)
 
Number of Loans
 
Accrual Status
 
Non-Accrual Status
 
Total TDRs
 
December 31, 2014
                 
Commercial real estate
    1     $ 6,069     $ -     $ 6,069  
Construction and land development
    -       -       -       -  
Commercial and industrial
    1       -       1,673       1,673  
Owner occupied real estate
    1       1,852       -       1,852  
Consumer and other
    -       -       -       -  
Residential mortgage
    -       -       -       -  
Total
    3     $ 7,921     $ 1,673     $ 9,594  
                                 
December 31, 2013
                               
Commercial real estate
    1     $ 103     $ -     $ 103  
Construction and land development
    -       -       -       -  
Commercial and industrial
    1       -       2,188       2,188  
Owner occupied real estate
    1       1,894       -       1,894  
Consumer and other
    -       -       -       -  
Residential mortgage
    -       -       -       -  
Total
    3     $ 1,997     $ 2,188     $ 4,185  
 
 
 
 
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All TDRs are considered impaired and are therefore individually evaluated for impairment in the calculation of the allowance for loan losses.  Some TDRs may not ultimately result in the full collection of principal and interest as restructured and could lead to potential incremental losses.  These potential incremental losses would be factored into our estimate of the allowance for loan losses.  The level of any subsequent defaults will likely be affected by future economic conditions.  There was one loan modification made during the year ended December 31, 2014 that met the criteria of a TDR.  There were no modifications made during the year ended December 31, 2013 that met the criteria of a TDR.
 
The Company modified one commercial real estate loan during the year ended December 31, 2014. In accordance with the modified terms of the commercial real estate loan, the Company modified the amortization time frame and reduced the effective interest rate when compared to the interest rate of the original loan. The Company also extended the maturity date of the loan.  Escrow has been established regarding property taxes and accrued interest has been capitalized. The commercial real estate loan has been and continues to be an accruing loan.  The borrower has remained current since the modification.  The pre-modification balance was $6.0 million and the post-modification balance was $6.1 million.
 
After a loan is determined to be a TDR, we continue to track its performance under the most recent restructured terms. There were no TDRs that subsequently defaulted during the year ended December 31, 2014. One loan classified as a TDR subsequently defaulted during the year ended December 31, 2013 and a partial writedown was recorded during the year ended December 31, 2014.
 
6.    Premises and Equipment
 

A summary of premises and equipment is as follows:
 
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
December 31, 2014
   
December 31, 2013
 
Land
  $ 4,216     $ 200  
Bank building
    9,375       1,057  
Leasehold improvements
    19,592       19,017  
Furniture, fixtures and equipment
    10,035       7,670  
Construction in progress
    4,406       6,402  
      47,624       34,346  
Less accumulated depreciation
    (12,594 )     (11,598 )
Net premises and equipment
  $ 35,030     $ 22,748  

Depreciation expense on premises, equipment and leasehold improvements amounted to approximately $2.4 million, $2.1 million, and $2.0 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The construction in progress balance of $4.4 million mainly represents costs incurred for the selection and development of future store locations.  Of this balance, $4.0 million represents land purchased for two specific store locations. Costs to complete the projects in process are estimated to be $11.9 million as of December 31, 2014.

7.
Borrowings

Republic has a line of credit with the Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) of Pittsburgh with a maximum borrowing capacity of $397.8 million as of December 31, 2014. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, there were no fixed term or overnight advances against this line of credit. As of December 31, 2014, FHLB had issued letters of credit, on Republic’s behalf, totaling $75.1 million against its available credit line, primarily to be used as collateral for public deposits.  There were no fixed term advances outstanding at any month-end during 2014 and 2013.  The maximum amount of overnight borrowings outstanding at any month-end was $0 in 2014 and 2013.
 
 
 
91
 
 
 
Republic also has a line of credit in the amount of $10.0 million available for the purchase of federal funds through another correspondent bank. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, Republic had no amount outstanding against this line.  The maximum amount of overnight advances on this line at any month end was $0 in 2014 and $0 in 2013.
 
Subordinated debt and corporation-obligated-mandatorily redeemable capital securities of subsidiary trust holding solely junior obligations of the corporation:
 

The Company has sponsored three outstanding issues of corporation-obligated mandatorily redeemable capital securities of a subsidiary trust holding solely junior subordinated debentures of the corporation, more commonly known as trust preferred securities. The subsidiary trusts are not consolidated with the Company for financial reporting purposes.  The purpose of the issuances of these securities was to increase capital.  The trust preferred securities qualify as Tier 1 capital for regulatory purposes in amounts up to 25% of total Tier 1 capital.
 
In December 2006, Republic Capital Trust II (“Trust II”) issued $6.0 million of trust preferred securities to investors and $0.2 million of common securities to the Company.  Trust II purchased $6.2 million of junior subordinated debentures of the Company due 2037, and the Company used the proceeds to call the securities of Republic Capital Trust I (“Trust I”).  The debentures supporting Trust II have a variable interest rate, adjustable quarterly, at 1.73% over the 3-month Libor.  The Company may call the securities on any interest payment date after five years without a prepayment penalty.
 
On June 28, 2007, the Company caused Republic Capital Trust III (“Trust III”), through a pooled offering, to issue $5.0 million of trust preferred securities to investors and $0.2 million common securities to the Company.  Trust III purchased $5.2 million of junior subordinated debentures of the Company due 2037, which have a variable interest rate, adjustable quarterly, at 1.55% over the 3 month Libor.  The Company has the ability to call the securities on any interest payment date without a prepayment penalty.
 
On June 10, 2008, the Company caused Republic First Bancorp Capital Trust IV (“Trust IV”) to issue $10.8 million of convertible trust preferred securities as part of the Company’s strategic capital plan.  The securities were purchased by various investors, including Vernon W. Hill, II, founder and chairman (retired) of Commerce Bancorp and, since the investment, a consultant to the Company.  This investor group also included a family trust of Harry D. Madonna, chairman, president and chief executive officer of the Company, and Theodore J. Flocco, Jr., who, since the investment, has been elected to the Company’s Board of Directors and serves as the Chairman of the Audit Committee.  Trust IV also issued $0.3 million of common securities to the Company.  Trust IV purchased $11.1 million of junior subordinated debentures due 2038, which pay interest at an annual rate of 8.0% and are callable after the fifth year.  The trust preferred securities of Trust IV are convertible into approximately 1.7 million shares of common stock of the Company, based on a conversion price of $6.50 per share of Company common stock, and at December 31, 2014 were fully convertible.

8.
Deposits

The following is a breakdown, by contractual maturities of the Company’s certificates of deposit for the years 2015 through 2019.

(dollars in thousands)
2015
 
2016
 
2017
 
2018
 
2019
 
Thereafter
 
Total
                           
Certificates of Deposit
$54,442
 
$17,886
 
$1,627
 
$              907
 
$            507
 
$     -
 
$75,369

Certificates of deposit of $100,000 or more totaled $39.8 million and $39.4 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Deposits of related parties totaled $84.0 million and $57.5 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

 
 
 
92
 
 

 
9.
Income Taxes

The benefit for income taxes for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 consists of the following:

(dollars in thousands)
 
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
Current
                 
Federal
  $ 96     $ 269     $ 81  
State
    -       -       -  
Deferred
    (142 )     (304 )     (225 )
Total benefit for income taxes
  $ (46 )   $ (35 )   $ (144 )

The following table reconciles the difference between the actual tax provision and the amount per the statutory federal income tax rate of 35.0% for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012.

(dollars in thousands)
 
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
Tax (benefit) provision computed at statutory rate
  $ 839     $ (1,230 )   $ 1,214  
Tax exempt interest
    (246 )     (210 )     (257 )
Bank owned life insurance
    -       (4 )     (26 )
Deferred tax asset valuation allowance
    (679 )     1,428       (1,002 )
Other
    40       (19 )     (73 )
Total benefit for income taxes
  $ (46 )   $ (35 )   $ (144 )

The significant components of the Company’s net deferred tax asset as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:

(dollars in thousands)
 
2014
   
2013
 
Deferred tax assets
           
Allowance for loan losses
  $ 4,143     $ 4,403  
Deferred compensation
    786       721  
Unrealized loss on securities available for sale
    354       1,584  
Realized loss in other than temporary impairment charge
    1,124       1,121  
Foreclosed real estate write-downs
    1,470       1,131  
Interest income on non-accrual loans
    1,117       955  
Net operating loss carryforward
    10,622       11,826  
Other
    1,329       986  
Total deferred tax assets
    20,945       22,727  
 
Deferred tax liabilities
               
Deferred loan costs
    934       859  
Other
    370       460  
Total deferred tax liabilities
    1,304       1,319  
Net deferred tax asset before valuation allowance
    19,641       21,408  
Less:  valuation allowance
    (14,659 )     (15,338 )
Net deferred tax asset
  $ 4,982     $ 6,070  

The Company’s net deferred tax asset before the consideration of a valuation allowance decreased to $19.6 million at December 31, 2014 compared to $21.4 million at December 31, 2013. This decrease was primarily driven by decreases in the net operating loss carryforward and the unrealized loss on securities available for sale during the twelve month period ended December 31, 2014. The $19.6 million net deferred tax asset as of December 31, 2014 is comprised of $10.6 million currently recognizable through NOL carryforwards and $9.0 million attributable to several items associated with temporary timing differences which will reverse at some point in the future to provide a net reduction in tax liabilities. The Company’s largest future reversal relates to its allowance for loan losses, which totaled $4.1 million as of December 31, 2014.
 
 
 
93
 
 

 
The Company evaluates the carrying amount of its deferred tax assets on a quarterly basis or more frequently, if necessary, in accordance with the guidance provided in Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Codification Topic 740 (ASC 740), in particular, applying the criteria set forth therein to determine whether it is more likely than not (i.e. a likelihood of more than 50%) that some portion, or all, of the deferred tax asset will not be realized within its life cycle, based on the weight of available evidence.  If management makes a determination based on the available evidence that it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized in future periods a valuation allowance is calculated and recorded.  These determinations are inherently subjective and dependent upon estimates and judgments concerning management’s evaluation of both positive and negative evidence.
 
In conducting the deferred tax asset analysis, the Company believes it is important to consider the unique characteristics of an industry or business.  In particular, characteristics such as business model, level of capital and reserves held by financial institutions and their ability to absorb potential losses are important distinctions to be considered for bank holding companies like the Company. In addition, it is also important to consider that NOLs for federal income tax purposes can generally be carried back two years and carried forward for a period of twenty years.  The Company has an NOL which will begin to expire after December 31, 2030 if not utilized prior to that date. In order to realize our deferred tax assets, we must generate sufficient taxable income in such future years.

In assessing the need for a valuation allowance, the Company carefully weighed both positive and negative evidence currently available.  Judgment is required when considering the relative impact of such evidence. The weight given to the potential effect of positive and negative evidence must be commensurate with the extent to which it can be objectively verified. A cumulative loss in recent years is a significant piece of negative evidence that is difficult to overcome. Based on the analysis of available positive and negative evidence, the Company determined that a valuation allowance should be recorded as of December 31, 2014 and 2013.

When determining an estimate for a valuation allowance, the Company assessed the possible sources of taxable income available under tax law to realize a tax benefit for deductible temporary differences and carryforwards as defined in ASC 740-10-30. As a result of cumulative losses in recent years and the uncertain nature of the current economic environment, the Company did not use projections of future taxable income, exclusive of reversing temporary timing differences and carryforwards, as a factor. The Company will continue to exclude future taxable income as a factor until it can show consistent and sustained profitability.

The Company did assess tax planning strategies as defined under ASC 740-10-30 to determine the amount of a valuation allowance. Strategies reviewed included the sale of investment securities and loans with fair values greater than book values, redeployment of cash and cash equivalents into higher yielding investment options, a switch from tax-exempt to taxable investments and loans, and the election of a decelerated depreciation method for tax purposes for future fixed asset purchases. The Company believes that these tax planning strategies are (i.) prudent and feasible, (ii.) steps that the Company would not ordinarily take, but would take to prevent an operating loss or tax credit carryforward from expiring unused, and (iii.) would result in the realization of existing deferred tax assets. These tax planning strategies, if implemented, would result in taxable income in the first full reporting period after deployment and accelerate the recovery of deferred tax asset balances if faced with the inability to recover those assets or the risk of potential expiration. The Company believes that these are viable tax planning strategies and appropriately considered in the analysis at this time, but may not align with the strategic direction of the organization today and therefore, has no present intention to implement such strategies.
 
 
 
 
94
 

 
The net deferred tax asset balance before consideration of a valuation allowance was $19.6 million as of December 31, 2014 and $21.4 million as of December 31, 2013.  The tax planning strategies assessed resulted in the projected realization of approximately $5.0 million in tax assets as of December 31, 2014 and $6.1 million as of December 31, 2013 which can be considered more likely than not to be realized. Accordingly, the Company recorded a partial valuation allowance related to the deferred tax asset balance in the amount of $14.7 million as of December 31, 2014 and $15.3 million as of December 31, 2013.

The deferred tax asset will continue to be analyzed on a quarterly basis for changes affecting realizability.  As the Company continues to record consecutive quarters of profitable results, projections of future taxable income become more reliable and can again be used as a factor in assessing the ability to fully realize the deferred tax asset.  When the determination is made to include projections of future taxable income as a factor, the valuation allowance will be reduced accordingly resulting in a corresponding increase in net income.

The Company accounts for uncertain tax positions if it is more likely than not, based on the technical merits, that the tax position will be realized or sustained upon examination.  The Internal Revenue Service has completed its audits of the Company’s federal tax returns for all tax years through December 31, 2008.  There are currently no income tax audits being conducted by the Internal Revenue Service or the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue.  The Company’s federal income tax returns filed subsequent to 2008 remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service.

10.
Financial Instruments with Off-Balance Sheet Risk

The Company is a party to financial instruments with off-balance-sheet risk in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of its customers. These financial instruments include commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit. These instruments involve to varying degrees, elements of credit and interest rate risk in excess of the amount recognized in the financial statements.
 
Credit risk is defined as the possibility of sustaining a loss due to the failure of the other parties to a financial instrument to perform in accordance with the terms of the contract. The maximum exposure to credit loss under commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit is represented by the contractual amount of these instruments. The Company uses the same underwriting standards and policies in making credit commitments as it does for on-balance-sheet instruments.
 
Financial instruments whose contract amounts represent potential credit risk are commitments to extend credit of approximately $138.4 million and $109.3 million and standby letters of credit of approximately $3.8 million and $2.7 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  Commitments often expire without being drawn upon. Of the $138.4 million of commitments to extend credit at December 31, 2014, substantially all were variable rate commitments.
 
Commitments to extend 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 fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and many require the payment of a fee. Since many of the commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements. The Company evaluates each customer’s creditworthiness on a case-by-case basis. The amount of collateral obtained upon extension of credit is based on management’s credit evaluation of the customer. Collateral held varies but may include real estate, marketable securities, pledged deposits, equipment and accounts receivable.

Standby letters of credit are conditional commitments issued that guarantee the performance of a customer to a third party. The credit risk and collateral policy involved in issuing letters of credit is essentially the same as that involved in extending loan commitments. The amount of collateral obtained is based on management’s credit evaluation of the customer. Collateral held varies but may include real estate, marketable securities, pledged deposits, equipment and accounts receivable.  Management believes that the proceeds obtained through a liquidation of such collateral would be sufficient to cover the maximum potential amount of future payments required under the corresponding guarantees.  The current amount of liability as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 for guarantees under standby letters of credit issued is not material.  
 
 
 
95
 
 

 
11.
Commitments and Contingencies

Lease Arrangements

As of December 31, 2014, the Company had entered into non-cancelable leases expiring through November 30, 2054, including renewal options.  The leases are accounted for as operating leases.  The minimum annual rental payments required under these leases are as follows (dollars in thousands):

Year Ended
 
Amount
 
       
2015
  $ 2,819  
2016
    2,698  
2017
    2,709  
2018
    2,765  
2019
    2,829  
Thereafter
    41,952  
Total
  $ 55,772  

The Company incurred rent expense of $2.7 million, $2.3 million, and $2.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Other

The Company and Republic are from time to time a party (plaintiff or defendant) to lawsuits that are in the normal course of business.  While any litigation involves an element of uncertainty, management is of the opinion that the liability of the Company and Republic, if any, resulting from such actions will not have a material effect on the financial condition or results of operations of the Company and Republic.

12.
Regulatory Capital

Dividend payments by Republic to the Company are subject to the Pennsylvania Banking Code of 1965 (the “Banking Code”) and the Federal Deposit Insurance Act (the “FDIA”). Under the Banking Code, no dividends may be paid except from “accumulated net earnings” (generally, undivided profits). Under the FDIA, an insured bank may pay no dividends if the bank is in arrears in the payment of any insurance assessment due to the FDIC. Under current banking laws, Republic would be limited to $14.3 million of dividends plus an additional amount equal to its net profit for 2015, up to the date of any such dividend declaration. However, dividends would be further limited in order to maintain capital ratios.
 
State and Federal regulatory authorities have adopted standards for the maintenance of adequate levels of capital by Republic. Federal banking agencies impose three minimum capital requirements on the Company’s risk-based capital ratios based on total capital, Tier 1 capital, and a leverage capital ratio. The risk-based capital ratios measure the adequacy of a bank’s capital against the riskiness of its assets and off-balance sheet activities. Failure to maintain adequate capital is a basis for “prompt corrective action” or other regulatory enforcement action. In assessing a bank’s capital adequacy, regulators also consider other factors such as interest rate risk exposure; liquidity, funding and market risks; quality and level or earnings; concentrations of credit; quality of loans and investments; risks of any nontraditional activities; effectiveness of bank policies; and management’s overall ability to monitor and control risks.
 
 
 
 
96
 

 

The following table presents the Company’s and Republic’s capital regulatory ratios at December 31, 2014 and 2013:

(dollars in thousands)
 
Actual
   
For Capital Adequacy Purposes
   
To be well capitalized under regulatory capital guidelines
 
   
Amount
   
Ratio
   
Amount
   
Ratio
   
Amount
   
Ratio
 
At December 31, 2014:
                                   
                                     
Total risk based capital
                                   
Republic
  $ 132,460       14.04 %   $ 75,491       8.00 %   $ 94,364       10.00 %
Company
    142,556       15.10 %     75,543       8.00 %     -       - %
                                                 
Tier one risk based capital
                                               
Republic
    120,924       12.81 %     37,746       4.00 %     56,618       6.00 %
Company
    131,020       13.88 %     37,771       4.00 %     -       - %
                                                 
Tier one leveraged capital
                                               
Republic
    120,924       10.37 %     46,630       4.00 %     58,288       5.00 %
Company
    131,020       11.23 %     46,680       4.00 %     -       - %
                                                 
At December 31, 2013:
                                               
                                                 
Total risk based capital
                                               
Republic
  $ 92,493       11.38 %   $ 65,038       8.00 %   $ 81,297       10.00 %
Company
    93,848       11.53 %     65,092       8.00 %     -       - %
                                                 
Tier one risk based capital
                                               
Republic
    82,305       10.12 %     32,519       4.00 %     48,778       6.00 %
Company
    83,652       10.28 %     32,546       4.00 %     -       - %
                                                 
Tier one leveraged capital
                                               
Republic
    82,305       8.46 %     38,921       4.00 %     48,651       5.00 %
Company
    83,652       8.59 %     38,971       4.00 %     -       - %

Management believes that Republic met, as of December 31, 2014, all capital adequacy requirements to which it is subject. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the FDIC categorized Republic as well capitalized under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action provisions of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act.  There are no calculations or events since that notification that management believes have changed Republic’s category.
 
 In July 2013, the federal bank regulatory agencies adopted revisions to the agencies’ capital adequacy guidelines and prompt corrective action rules, which were designed to enhance such requirements and implement the revised standards of the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision, commonly referred to as Basel III. The final rules generally implement higher minimum capital requirements, add a new common equity tier 1 capital requirement, and establish criteria that instruments must meet to be considered common equity tier 1 capital, additional tier 1 capital or tier 2 capital.  The new minimum capital to risk-adjusted assets requirements are a common equity tier 1 capital ratio of 4.5% (6.5% to be considered “well capitalized”) and a tier 1 capital ratio of 6.0%, increased from 4.0% (and increased from 6.0% to 8.0% to be considered “well capitalized”); the total capital ratio remains at 8.0% under the new rules (10.0% to be considered “well capitalized”).  Under the new rules, in order to avoid limitations on capital distributions (including dividend payments and certain discretionary bonus payments to executive officers), a banking organization must hold a capital conservation buffer comprised of common equity tier 1 capital above its minimum risk-based capital requirements in an amount greater than 2.5% of total risk-weighted assets. The new minimum capital requirements are effective on January 1, 2015. The capital contribution buffer requirements phase in over a three-year period beginning January 1, 2016.  Management has reviewed the new standards and evaluated all options and strategies to ensure compliance with the new standards.  Management believes that Republic will maintain its status as a “well-capitalized” financial institution under the new standards.
 
 
 
 
97
 
 

 
13.
 Benefit Plans
 
Defined Contribution Plan
 
The Company has a defined contribution plan pursuant to the provision of 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code. The Plan covers all full-time employees who meet age and service requirements. The plan provides for elective employee contributions with a matching contribution from the Company limited to 4% of total salary. The total expense charged to Republic, and included in salaries and employee benefits relating to the plan, was $480,000 in 2014, $425,000 in 2013, and $366,000 in 2012.

Directors’ and Officers’ Plans
 
The Company has agreements that provide for an annuity payment upon the retirement or death of certain directors and officers, ranging from $15,000 to $25,000 per year for ten years. The agreements were modified for most participants in 2001, to establish a minimum age of 65 to qualify for the payments. All participants are fully vested. The accrued benefits under the plan at both December 31, 2014 and 2013 totaled $1.4 million. The expense for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, totaled $36,000, $39,000, and $27,000, respectively. The Company funded the plan through the purchase of certain life insurance contracts. The cash surrender value of these contracts (owned by the Company) aggregated $2.2 million and $2.2 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, which is included in other assets.

The Company maintains a deferred compensation plan for the benefit of certain officers and directors.  As of December 31, 2014, no additional individuals may participate in the plan.  The plan permits certain participants to make elective contributions to their accounts, subject to applicable provisions of the Internal Revenue Code.  In addition, the Company may make discretionary contributions to participant accounts.  Company contributions are subject to vesting, and generally vest three years after the end of the plan year to which the contribution applies, subject to acceleration of vesting upon certain changes in control (as defined in the plan) and to forfeiture upon termination for cause (as defined in the plan).  Participant accounts are adjusted to reflect contributions and distributions, and income, gains, losses, and expenses as if the accounts had been invested in permitted investments selected by the participants, including Company common stock.  The plan provides for distributions upon retirement and, subject to applicable limitations under the Internal Revenue Code, limited hardship withdrawals.  As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, $833,000 and $638,000, respectively, in benefits had vested.

Expense recognized for the deferred compensation plan for 2014, 2013, and 2012 was $147,000, $0 and $109,000, respectively.  Although the plan is an unfunded plan, and does not require the Company to segregate any assets, the Company has purchased shares of Company common stock in anticipation of its obligation to pay benefits under the plan.  Such shares are classified in the financial statements as stock held by deferred compensation plan.  No purchases were made in 2014, 2013 and 2012.  As of December 31, 2014, approximately 25,437 shares of Company common stock were classified as stock held by deferred compensation plan.

14.
Fair Value Measurements and Fair Values of Financial Instruments
 
Management uses its best judgment in estimating the fair value of the Company’s financial instruments; however, there are inherent weaknesses in any estimation technique.  Therefore, for substantially all financial instruments, the fair value estimates herein are not necessarily indicative of the amounts the Company could have realized in a sales transaction on the dates indicated.  The estimated fair value amounts have been measured as of their respective year-ends and have not been re-evaluated or updated for purposes of these financial statements subsequent to those respective dates.  As such, the estimated fair values of these financial instruments subsequent to the respective reporting dates may be different than the amounts reported at each year-end.
 
 
 
98
 
 
 
The Company follows the guidance issued under ASC 820, Fair Value Measurement, which defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value under GAAP, and identifies required disclosures on fair value measurements.
 
ASC 820 establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation methods 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 under ASC 820 are as follows:

Level 1 : Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities.
 
Level 2 : Quoted prices in markets that are not active, or inputs that are observable either directly or indirectly, 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 with little or no market activity).
 
An asset or liability’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement.

For financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis, the fair value measurements by level within the fair value hierarchy used at December 31, 2014 and 2013 were as follows:

 
 
 
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
 
 
 
Total
   
(Level 1)
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
   
(Level 2)
Significant Other Observable Inputs
   
(Level 3)
Significant Unobservable Inputs
 
December 31, 2014
                       
                         
Collateralized mortgage obligations
  $ 99,222     $ -     $ 99,222     $ -  
Mortgage-backed securities
    13,802       -       13,802       -  
Municipal securities
    16,107       -       16,107       -  
Corporate bonds
    34,427       -       31,422       3,005  
Asset-backed securities
    18,505       -       18,505       -  
Trust Preferred Securities
    3,193       -       -       3,193  
Other securities
    123       -       123       -  
Securities Available for Sale
  $ 185,379     $ -     $ 179,181     $ 6,198  
 
 
December 31, 2013
                       
                         
Collateralized mortgage obligations
  $ 123,440     $ -     $ 123,440     $ -  
Mortgage-backed securities
    16,181       -       16,181       -  
Municipal securities
    9,643       -       9,643       -  
Corporate bonds
    33,253       -       30,247       3,006  
Asset-backed securities
    19,407       -       19,407       -  
Trust Preferred Securities
    2,850       -       -       2,850  
Other securities
    117       -       117       -  
Securities Available for Sale
  $ 204,891     $ -     $ 199,035     $ 5,856  
 
 
 
 
99
 

 
The following table presents a reconciliation of the securities available for sale measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012:

   
Year Ended
December 31, 2014
   
Year Ended
December 31, 2013
   
Year Ended
December 31, 2012
 
Level 3 Investments Only
(dollars in thousands)
 
Trust Preferred Securities
   
Corporate Bonds
   
Trust Preferred Securities
   
Corporate Bonds
   
Trust Preferred Securities
   
Corporate Bonds
 
Balance, January 1,
  $ 2,850     $ 3,006     $ 3,187     $ 3,007     $ 3,410     $ 3,004  
Security transferred to Level 3 measurement
    -       -       -       -       -       -  
Unrealized gains (losses)
    360       (1 )     171       (1 )     401       3  
Paydowns
    (10 )     -       (508 )     -       (590 )     -  
Impairment charges on Level 3
    (7 )     -       -       -       (34 )     -  
Balance, December 31,
  $ 3,193     $ 3,005     $ 2,850     $ 3,006     $ 3,187     $ 3,007  

For assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis, the fair value measurements by level within the fair value hierarchy used at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, were as follows:

 
 
 
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
 
 
 
Total
   
(Level 1)
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
   
(Level 2)
Significant Other Observable Inputs
   
(Level 3)
Significant Unobservable Inputs
 
December 31, 2014:
                       
Impaired loans
  $ 15,838     $ -     $ -     $ 15,838  
Other real estate owned
    2,135       -       -       2,135  
SBA servicing assets
    4,099       -       -       4,099  
                                 
December 31, 2013:
                               
Impaired loans
  $ 17,474     $ -     $ -     $ 17,474  
Other real estate owned
    3,921       -       -       3,921  
SBA servicing assets
    3,477       -       -       3,477  



 
100
 

 

The table below presents additional quantitative information about Level 3 assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis (dollars in thousands):
 
 
   
Quantitative Information about Level 3 Fair Value Measurements
Asset Description
 
Fair Value
 
Valuation Technique
 
Unobservable Input
 
Range Weighted Average
 
December 31, 2014:
                   
Impaired loans
 
$
15,838
 
Fair Value of Collateral (1)
 
Appraised Value (2)
 
0% - 89% (30%) (4)
 
                     
Other real estate owned
 
$
2,135
 
Fair Value of Collateral (1)
 
Appraised Value (2)
Sales Price
 
7% - 39% (22%) (4)
 
SBA Servicing Assets
 
$
4,099
 
 
Fair Value
 
Individual Loan
Valuation (3)
 
(3)
 
                     
December 31, 2013:
                   
Impaired loans
 
$
17,474
 
Fair Value of Collateral (1)
 
Appraised Value (2)
 
0% - 40% (23%) (4)
 
                     
Other real estate owned
 
$
3,921
 
Fair Value of Collateral (1)
 
Appraised Value (2)
Sales Price
 
4% - 77% (17%) (4)
 
SBA Servicing Assets
 
$
3,477
 
 
Fair Value
 
Individual Loan
Valuation (3)
 
(3)
 
 
 
(1)
Fair value is generally determined through independent appraisals of the underlying collateral, which include Level 3 inputs that are not identifiable.
(2)
Appraisals may be adjusted by management for qualitative factors such as economic conditions and estimated liquidation expenses.
(3)
There is a lack of transactional data in this market place for the non-guaranteed portion of SBA loans.
(4)
The range and weighted average of qualitative factors such as economic conditions and estimated liquidation expenses are presented as a percent of the appraised value.

            The significant unobservable inputs for impaired loans and other real estate owned are the appraised value or an agreed upon sales price.  These values are adjusted for estimated costs to sell which are incremental direct costs to transact a sale such as broker commissions, legal fees, closing costs and title transfer fees. The costs must be considered essential to the sale and would not have been incurred if the decision to sell had not been made. The costs to sell are based on costs associated with the Company’s actual sales of other real estate owned which are assessed annually.

The following table presents an analysis of the activity in the SBA servicing assets for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013:

 
(dollars in thousands)
 
2014
   
2013
 
Beginning balance, January 1st
  $ 3,477     $ 2,340  
Additions
    1,277       1,349  
Fair value adjustments
    (655 )     (212 )
Ending balance, December 31st
  $ 4,099     $ 3,477  

Fair Value Assumptions

The following information should not be interpreted as an estimate of the fair value of the entire Company since a fair value calculation is only provided for a limited portion of the Company’s assets and liabilities.  Due to a wide range of valuation techniques and the degree of subjectivity used in making the estimates, comparisons between the Company’s disclosures and those of other companies may not be meaningful.  The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair values of the Company’s financial instruments at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013:
 
 
 
 
101
 

 
Cash and Cash Equivalents (Carried at Cost)

The carrying amounts reported in the balance sheet for cash and cash equivalents approximate those assets’ fair values.
 
Investment Securities
 
 The fair value of securities available for sale (carried at fair value) and held to maturity (carried at amortized cost) are determined by obtaining quoted market prices on nationally recognized securities exchanges (Level 1), or matrix pricing (Level 2), which is a mathematical technique used widely in the industry to value debt securities without relying exclusively on quoted market prices for the specific securities but rather by relying on the securities’ relationship to other benchmark quoted prices.  For certain securities, which are not traded in active markets or are subject to transfer restrictions, valuations are adjusted to reflect illiquidity and/or non-transferability, and such adjustments, are generally based on available market evidence (Level 3).  In the absence of such evidence, management’s best estimate is used.  Management’s best estimate consists of both internal and external support on certain Level 3 investments.  Internal cash flow models using a present value formula that includes assumptions market participants would use along with indicative exit pricing obtained from broker/dealers (where available) were used to support fair values of certain Level 3 investments.

The types of instruments valued based on matrix pricing in active markets include all of the Company’s U.S. government and agency securities, corporate bonds, asset backed securities, and municipal obligations. Such instruments are generally classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. As required by ASC 820-10, the Company does not adjust the matrix pricing for such instruments.

Level 3 is for positions that are not traded in active markets or are subject to transfer restrictions, and may be adjusted to reflect illiquidity and/or non-transferability, with such adjustment generally based on available market evidence. In the absence of such evidence, management’s best estimate is used. Subsequent to inception, management only changes Level 3 inputs and assumptions when corroborated by evidence such as transactions in similar instruments, completed or pending third-party transactions in the underlying investment or comparable entities, subsequent rounds of financing, recapitalizations and other transactions across the capital structure, offerings in the equity or debt markets, and changes in financial ratios or cash flows. The Level 3 investment securities classified as available for sale are comprised of various issues of trust preferred securities and a single corporate bond.

 The trust preferred securities are pools of similar securities that are grouped into an asset structure commonly referred to as collateralized debt obligations (“CDOs”) which consist of the debt instruments of various banks, diversified by the number of participants in the security as well as geographically.   The secondary market for these securities has become inactive, and therefore these securities are classified as Level 3 securities. The fair value analysis does not reflect or represent the actual terms or prices at which any party could purchase the securities. There is currently a limited secondary market for the securities and there can be no assurance that any secondary market for the securities will expand.

An independent, third party pricing service is used to estimate the current fair market value of each CDO held in the investment securities portfolio. The calculations used to determine fair value are based on the attributes of the trust preferred securities, the financial condition of the issuers of the trust preferred securities, and market based assumptions. The INTEX CDO Deal Model Library was utilized to obtain information regarding the attributes of each security and its specific collateral as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013. Financial information on the issuers was also obtained from Bloomberg, the FDIC, the Office of Thrift Supervision and SNL Financial. Both published and unpublished industry sources were utilized in estimating fair value. Such information includes loan prepayment speed assumptions, discount rates, default rates, and loss severity percentages. Due to the current state of the global capital and financial markets, the fair market valuation is subject to greater uncertainty that would otherwise exist.
 
 
 
102
 
 

 
The fair market valuation for each CDO was determined based on discounted cash flow analyses. The cash flows are primarily dependent on the estimated speeds at which the trust preferred securities are expected to prepay, the estimated rates at which the trust preferred securities are expected to defer payments, the estimated rates at which the trust preferred securities are expected to default, and the severity of the losses on securities that do default. 
 
Increases (decreases) in actual or expected issuer defaults tend to decrease (increase) the fair value of the Company’s senior and mezzanine tranches of CDOs.  The values of the Company’s mezzanine tranches of CDOs are also affected by expected future interest rates.  However, due to the structure of each security, timing of cash flows, and secondary effects on the financial performance of the underlying issuers, the effects of changes in future interest rates on the fair value of the Company’s holdings are not quantifiably estimable.

Also included in Level 3 investment securities classified as available for sale is a single-issuer corporate bond transferred from Level 2 in 2010 that is not actively traded.  Impairment would depend on the repayment ability of the underlying issuer, which is assessed through a detailed quarterly review of the issuer’s financial statements.  The issuer is a “well capitalized” financial institution as defined by federal banking regulations and has demonstrated the ability to raise additional capital, when necessary, through the public capital markets.  The fair value of this corporate bond is estimated by obtaining a price of a comparable floating rate debt instrument through Bloomberg.

Loans Held For Sale (Carried at Lower of Cost or Fair Value)

The fair values of loans held for sale is determined, when possible, using quoted secondary-market prices.  If no such quoted prices exist, the fair value of a loan is determined using quoted prices for a similar loan or loans, adjusted for the specific attributes of that loan.  The Company did not write down any loans held for sale during the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013.

Loans Receivable (Carried at Cost)

The fair values of loans receivable, excluding all nonaccrual loans and accruing loans deemed impaired with specific loan allowances, are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses, using market rates at the balance sheet date that reflect the credit and interest rate-risk inherent in the loans.  Projected future cash flows are calculated based upon contractual maturity or call dates, projected repayments and prepayments of principal.  Generally, for variable rate loans that reprice frequently and with no significant change in credit risk, fair values are based on carrying values.  Due to the significant judgment involved in evaluating credit quality, loans are classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

Impaired Loans (Carried at Lower of Cost or Fair Value)
 
Impaired loans are those that the Company has measured impairment based on the fair value of the loan’s collateral.  Fair value is generally determined based upon independent third party appraisals of the properties, or discounted cash flows based upon the expected proceeds.  These assets are included as Level 3 fair values, based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurements.  The fair value consists of the loan balances less any valuation allowance.  The valuation allowance amount is calculated as the difference between the recorded investment in a loan and the present value of expected future cash flows or it is calculated based on discounted collateral values if the loans are collateral dependent.


 
103
 

Other Real Estate Owned (Carried at Lower of Cost or Fair Value)
 
These assets are carried at the lower of cost or fair value.  At December 31, 2014 and 2013 these assets are carried at current fair value.

SBA Servicing Asset (Carried at Fair Value)

The SBA servicing asset is initially recorded when loans are sold and the servicing rights are retained and recorded on the balance sheet.  Updated fair values are obtained on a quarterly basis and adjustments are presented as loan advisory and servicing fees on the statement of operations. The valuation begins with the projection of future cash flows for each asset based on their unique characteristics, our market-based assumptions for prepayment speeds and estimated losses and recoveries.  The present value of the future cash flows are then calculated utilizing our market-based discount ratio assumptions.  In all cases, we model expected payments for every loan for each quarterly period in order to create the most detailed cash flow stream possible.

The Company uses assumptions and estimates in determining the impairment of the SBA servicing asset.  These assumptions include prepayment speeds and discount rates commensurate with the risks involved and comparable to assumptions used by participants to value and bid serving rights available for sale in the market.  At December 31, 2014, the sensitivity of the current fair value of the SBA loan servicing rights to immediate 10% and 20% adverse changes in key assumptions are included in the accompanying table.
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
December 31, 2014
   
December 31, 2013
 
             
SBA Servicing Asset
           
             
Fair Value of SBA Servicing Asset
  $ 4,099     $ 3,477  
 
               
Composition of SBA Loans Serviced for Others
               
      Fixed-rate SBA loans
    0 %     0 %
      Adjustable-rate SBA loans
    100 %     100 %
                  Total
    100 %     100 %
                 
Weighted Average Remaining Term
 
21.2 years
   
21.4 years
 
                 
Prepayment Speed
    7.45 %     6.72 %
      Effect on fair value of a 10% increase
  $ (116 )   $ (83 )
      Effect on fair value of a 20% increase
    (226 )     (163 )
                 
Weighted Average Discount Rate
    12.48 %     13.59 %
      Effect on fair value of a 10% increase
  $ (195 )   $ (162 )
      Effect on fair value of a 20% increase
    (378 )     (316 )

The sensitivity calculations above are hypothetical and should not be considered to be predictive of future performance.  As indicated, changes in value based on adverse changes in assumptions generally cannot be extrapolated because the relationship of the change in assumption to the change in value may not be linear.  Also in this table, the effect of an adverse variation in a particular assumption on the value of the SBA servicing rights is calculated without changing any other assumption.  While in reality, changes in one factor may magnify or counteract the effect of the change.


 
104
 


Restricted Stock (Carried at Cost)
 
The carrying amount of restricted stock approximates fair value, and considers the limited marketability of such securities.
 
Accrued Interest Receivable and Payable (Carried at Cost)
 
The carrying amounts of accrued interest receivable and accrued interest payable approximates fair value.
 
Deposit Liabilities (Carried at Cost)
 
The fair values disclosed for demand deposits (e.g., interest and noninterest checking, passbook savings and money market accounts) are, by definition, equal to the amount payable on demand at the reporting date (i.e., their carrying amounts).  Fair values for fixed-rate certificates of deposit are estimated using a discounted cash flow calculation that applies interest rates currently being offered in the market on certificates to a schedule of aggregated expected monthly maturities on time deposits.

Subordinated Debt (Carried at Cost)

Fair values of subordinated debt are estimated using discounted cash flow analysis, based on market rates currently offered on such debt with similar credit risk characteristics, terms and remaining maturity.  Due to the significant judgment involved in developing the spreads used to value the subordinated debt, it is classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

Off-Balance Sheet Financial Instruments (Disclosed at Notional amounts)
 
Fair values for the Company’s off-balance sheet financial instruments (lending commitments and letters of credit) are based on fees currently charged in the market to enter into similar agreements, taking into account, the remaining terms of the agreements and the counterparties’ credit standing.



 
105
 

 


The estimated fair values of the Company’s financial instruments were as follows at December 31, 2014 and 2013:

   
Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2014
 
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
Carrying Amount
   
Fair
Value
   
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
(Level 1)
   
Significant Other Observable Inputs
 (Level 2)
   
Significant Unobservable Inputs
 (Level 3)
 
Balance Sheet Data
                             
Financial assets:
                             
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 128,826     $ 128,826     $ 128,826     $ -     $ -  
Investment securities available for sale
    185,379       185,379       -       179,181       6,198  
Investment securities held to maturity
    67,866       68,253       -       68,253       -  
Restricted stock
    1,157       1,157       -       1,157       -  
Loans held for sale
    1,676       1,699       -       -       1,699  
Loans receivable, net
    770,404       760,163       -       -       760,163  
SBA servicing assets
    4,099       4,099       -       -       4,099  
Accrued interest receivable
    3,226       3,226       -       3,226       -  
                                         
Financial liabilities:
                                       
Deposits
                                       
Demand, savings and money market
  $ 996,861     $ 996,861     $ -     $ 996,861     $ -  
Time
    75,369       75,592       -       75,592       -  
Subordinated debt
    22,476       18,221       -       -       18,221  
Accrued interest payable
    265       265       -       265       -  
                                         
Off-Balance Sheet Data
                                       
Commitments to extend credit
    -       -                          
Standby letters-of-credit
    -       -                          

   
Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2013
 
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
Carrying Amount
   
Fair
Value
   
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
(Level 1)
   
Significant Other Observable Inputs
 (Level 2)
   
Significant Unobservable Inputs
 (Level 3)
 
Balance Sheet Data
                             
Financial assets:
                             
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 35,880     $ 35,880     $ 35,880     $ -     $ -  
Investment securities available for sale
    204,891       204,891       -       199,035       5,856  
Investment securities held to maturity
    21       21       -       21       -  
Restricted stock
    1,570       1,570       -       1,570       -  
Loans held for sale
    4,931       5,225       -       -       5,225  
Loans receivable, net
    667,048       660,237       -       -       660,237  
SBA servicing assets
    3,477       3,477       -       -       3,477  
Accrued interest receivable
    3,049       3,049       -       3,049       -  
                                         
Financial liabilities:
                                       
Deposits
                                       
Demand, savings and money market
  $ 790,698     $ 790,698     $ -     $ 790,698     $ -  
Time
    78,836       79,323       -       79,323       -  
Subordinated debt
    22,476       17,835       -       -       17,835  
Accrued interest payable
    237       237       -       237       -  
                                         
Off-Balance Sheet Data
                                       
Commitments to extend credit
    -       -                          
Standby letters-of-credit
    -       -                          


 
106
 


15.  Stock Based Compensation

The Company has a Stock Option and Restricted Stock Plan (“Plan”) which originally became effective in 1995 and was subsequently amended and restated in 2005. The Plan allows stock options, restricted stock or stock appreciation rights to be granted to the Company’s employees, directors, and certain consultants.  Under the terms of the Plan, 1.5 million shares of common stock, plus an annual increase equal to the number of shares needed to restore the maximum number of shares that may be available for grant under the Plan to 1.5 million shares, are available for such grants.  As of December 31, 2014, the only grants under the Plan have been option grants.  The Plan provides that the exercise price of each option granted equals the market price of the Company’s stock on the date of grant. Any option granted vests within one to four years and has a maximum term of ten years. The Plan terminates pursuant to its terms on November 14, 2015.

On April 29, 2014, the Company’s shareholders approved the 2014 Republic First Bancorp, Inc. Equity Incentive Plan (the “2014 Plan”), under which the Company may grant options, restricted stock, stock units, or stock appreciation rights to the Company’s employees, directors, independent contractors, and consultants.  Under the terms of the 2014 Plan, 2.6 million shares of common stock, plus an annual adjustment to be no less than 10% of the outstanding shares or such lower number as the Board of Directors may determine, are available for such grants.

During the twelve months ended December 31, 2014, 360,900 options were granted under the Plan. There were no options granted under the 2014 Plan.
 
The Company utilized the Black-Scholes option pricing model to calculate the estimated fair value of each stock option granted on the date of the grant.  A summary of the assumptions used in the Black-Scholes option pricing model for 2014, 2013, and 2012 is as follows:

   
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Dividend yield (1)
 
0.0%
 
0.0%
 
0.0%
Expected volatility (2)
 
55.79% to 57.99%
 
54.88% to 55.61%
 
53.12% to 54.49%
Risk-free interest rate (3)
 
1.51% to 2.26%
 
1.28% to 2.03%
 
1.01% to 1.61%
Expected life (4)
 
5.5 to 7.0 years
 
7.0 years
 
7.0 years

(1)
A dividend yield of 0.0% is utilized because cash dividends have never been paid.
(2)
Expected volatility is based on Bloomberg’s five and one-half to seven year volatility calculation for “FRBK” stock.
(3)
The risk-free interest rate is based on the five to seven year Treasury bond.
(4)
The expected life reflects a 1 to 4 year vesting period, the maximum ten year term and review of historical behavior .

During 2014, 209,825 options vested as compared to 127,287 options in 2013 and 146,000 options in 2012.  Expense is recognized ratably over the period required to vest.  At December 31, 2014 the intrinsic value of the 1,494,399 options outstanding was $1,027,276, while the intrinsic value of the 454,761 exercisable (vested) options was $190,601.  During 2014, 81,531 options were forfeited with a weighted average grant date fair value of $40,369.

Information regarding stock based compensation for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 is set forth below:

   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
Stock based compensation expense recognized
  $ 420,000     $ 325,000     $ 370,000  
Number of unvested stock options
    1,039,638       909,313       710,600  
Fair value of unvested stock options
  $ 1,548,840     $ 1,245,679     $ 1,091,948  
Amount remaining to be recognized as expense
  $ 702,220     $ 545,862     $ 467,314  

The remaining amount of $702,220 will be recognized ratably as expense through September 2018.

 
107
 

A summary of stock option activity under the Plan as of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 is as follows:

   
For the Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
   
 
 
Shares
   
Weighted Average Exercise Price
   
 
 
Shares
   
Weighted Average Exercise Price
   
 
 
Shares
   
Weighted Average Exercise Price
 
                                     
Outstanding, beginning of year
    1,215,530     $ 3.66       964,530     $ 4.38       839,417     $ 6.04  
Granted
    360,900       3.69       347,250       2.72       296,750       1.95  
Exercised
    (500 )     1.95       -       -       -       -  
Forfeited
    (81,531 )     5.15       (96,250 )     7.39       (171,637 )     8.32  
Outstanding, end of year
    1,494,399     $ 3.59       1,215,530     $ 3.66       964,530     $ 4.38  
                                                 
Options exercisable at year-end
    454,761     $ 5.06       306,217     $ 6.24       253,930     $ 7.92  
                                                 
Weighted average fair value of options granted during the year
          $ 2.07             $ 1.51             $ 1.05  

     A summary of stock option exercises and related proceeds during the years end December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 is as follows:

   
For the Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
                   
Number of options exercised
    500       -       -  
Cash received
  $ 975     $ -     $ -  
Intrinsic value
  $ 1,010     $ -     $ -  
Tax benefit
  $ -     $ -     $ -  
 
The following table summarizes information about options outstanding at December 31, 2014:

     
Options Outstanding
   
Options Exercisable
 
 
Range of Exercise Prices
   
 
Number Outstanding
   
Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Life
   
Weighted-Average Exercise Price
   
 
 
Shares
   
Weighted-Average Exercise Price
 
                                 
$ 1.39 to $2.95       635,125       7.7     $ 2.33       129,637     $ 2.33  
$ 3.14 to $5.12       665,150       7.6       3.71       131,000       4.43  
$ 5.70 to $8.00       170,350       3.9       6.74       170,350       6.74  
$ 9.93 to $12.13       23,774       1.3       11.36       23,774       11.36  
          1,494,399             $ 3.59       454,761     $ 5.06  

A roll-forward of non-vested options during the year ended December 31, 2014 is as follows:

   
Number of Shares
   
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
 
Nonvested, beginning of year
    909,313     $ 1.37  
Granted
    360,900       2.07  
Vested
    (209,825 )     1.65  
Forfeited
    (20,750 )     1.51  
Nonvested, end of year
    1,039,638     $ 1.49  
 
 

 
 
108
 

16.  Segment Reporting

The Company has one reportable segment:  community banking.  The community banking segment primarily encompasses the commercial loan and deposit activities of Republic, as well as consumer loan products in the area surrounding its stores.

17.  Transactions with Affiliates and Related Parties

At December 31, 2014 and 2013, Republic had outstanding balances of $0 and $2.7 million, respectively, of commercial loans, which had been participated to First Bank of Delaware (“FBD”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company prior to January 1, 2005.  As of December 31, 2014 and 2013 Republic had no outstanding commercial loan balances it had purchased from FBD.  The above loan participations and sales were made at arms length.  They are made as a result of lending limit and other regulatory requirements.

The Board of Directors of FBD approved a Plan of Liquidation and Dissolution on April 27, 2012.  As a result of stockholder approval of the Plan of Dissolution, FBD executed the FBD Liquidating Trust Agreement.  On November 6, 2012, FBD gave notice to the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority of its intent to dissolve on or about November 16, 2012.

The Company made payments to related parties in the amount of $754,000 during 2014 as compared to $412,000 during 2013 and $346,000 during 2012.  The disbursements made during 2014, 2013 and 2012 include $343,000, $127,000, and $95,000, respectively, in fees for marketing, graphic design, architectural and project management services paid to InterArch, a company owned by the spouse of Vernon W. Hill, II. Mr. Hill is a significant shareholder of the Company, beneficially owning 9.9% of the common shares currently outstanding.  The Company paid $28,000 during 2014 to Glassboro Properties, LLC related to a land lease agreement for its Glassboro store.  Mr. Hill has an ownership interest in Glassboro Properties LLC, a commercial real estate firm.  He also acts as a consultant for the Company and is paid $250,000 annually.

The Company paid $133,000 during 2014 and $35,000 during 2013 to Brian Communications for public relations services.  Brian Tierney, a member of the Board of Directors, is the CEO of Brian Communications, a strategic communications agency.



 
109
 
 

18.  Parent Company Financial Information

The following financial statements for Republic First Bancorp, Inc. (Parent Company) should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the other notes related to the consolidated financial statements.

Balance Sheet
 
December 31, 2014 and 2013
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
             
   
December 31, 2014
   
December 31, 2013
 
ASSETS 
           
Cash
  $ 9,471     $ 697  
Corporation-obligated mandatorily redeemable capital securities of subsidiary trust holding junior obligations of the corporation
    676       676  
Investment in subsidiaries
    121,278       80,666  
Other assets
    3,880       3,354  
Total Assets
  $ 135,305     $ 85,393  
                 
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
               
Liabilities
               
Accrued expenses
  $ 18     $ 18  
    Corporation-obligated mandatorily redeemable
        securities of subsidiary trust holding solely junior
        subordinated debentures of the corporation
    22,476       22,476  
Total Liabilities
    22,494       22,494  
                 
Shareholders’ Equity
               
Total Shareholders’ Equity
    112,811       62,899  
                 
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
  $ 135,305     $ 85,393  
 
 
 
110
 
 
 

 
Statements of Operations, Comprehensive Income (Loss), and Changes in Shareholders’ Equity
 
For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
   
   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
                   
Interest income
  $ 33     $ 33     $ 34  
Dividend income from subsidiaries
    -       1,859       -  
Total income
    33       1,892       34  
                         
Trust preferred interest expense
    1,107       1,112       1,134  
Expenses
    424       318       317  
Total expenses
    1,531       1,430       1,451  
Net income (loss) before taxes
    (1,498 )     462       (1,417 )
                         
Benefit for income taxes
    (524 )     (489 )     (496 )
Income (loss) before undistributed income (loss) of subsidiaries
    (974 )     951       (921 )
Equity in undistributed income (loss) of subsidiaries
    3,416       (4,431 )     4,535  
Net income (loss)
  $ 2,442     $ (3,480 )   $ 3,614  
                         
Net income (loss)
  $ 2,442     $ (3,480 )   $ 3,614  
Total other comprehensive income (loss)
    2,196       (3,848 )     1,067  
Total comprehensive income (loss)
  $ 4,638     $ (7,328 )   $ 4,681  
                         
Shareholders’ equity, beginning of year
  $ 62,899     $ 69,902     $ 64,851  
Shares issued under common stock offering
    44,853       -       -  
Stock based compensation
    420       325       370  
Exercise of stock options
    1       -       -  
Net income (loss)
    2,442       (3,480 )     3,614  
Total other comprehensive income (loss)
    2,196       (3,848 )     1,067  
Shareholders’ equity, end of year
  $ 112,811     $ 62,899     $ 69,902  



 
111
 

 


Statements of Cash Flows
 
For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
   
   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
                 
Net income (loss)
  $ 2,442     $ (3,480 )   $ 3,614  
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash used in operating activities:
                       
Share based compensation
    420       325       370  
Increase in other assets
    (526 )     (506 )     (542 )
Decrease in other liabilities
    -       (809 )     (226 )
Equity in undistributed (income) losses of subsidiaries
    (3,416 )     4,431       (4,535 )
Net cash used in operating activities
    (1,080 )     (39 )     (1,319 )
                         
Cash flows from investing activities:
                       
Investment in subsidiary
    (35,000 )     -       -  
Net cash used in investing activities
    (35,000 )     -       -  
                         
Cash flows from financing activities:
                       
Net proceeds from stock offering
    44,853       -       -  
Exercise of stock options
    1       -       -  
Net cash provided by financing activities
    44,854       -       -  
                         
Increase (decrease) in cash
    8,774       (39 )     (1,319 )
Cash, beginning of period
    697       736       2,055  
Cash, end of period
  $ 9,471     $ 697     $ 736  





 

 
112
 




19.  Quarterly Financial Data (unaudited)

 The following represents summarized unaudited quarterly financial data of the Company for each of the quarters ended during 2014 and 2013.
 
Summary of Selected Quarterly Consolidated Financial Data
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
 
   
For the Quarter Ended
 
   
December 31 st
   
September 30 th
   
June 30 th
   
March 31 st
 
2014
                               
                                 
Interest income
  $ 10,786     $ 10,401     $ 9,631     $ 9,655  
Interest expense
    1,246       1,195       1,147       1,056  
Net interest income
    9,540       9,206       8,484       8,599  
Provision for loan losses
    300       300       300       -  
Non-interest income
    2,427       1,371       2,289       1,930  
Non-interest expense
    10,792       9,986       9,957       9,815  
Provision (benefit) for income taxes
    22       (6 )     (21 )     (41 )
Net income
  $ 853     $ 297     $ 537     $ 755  
                                 
Net income per share (1) :
                               
Basic
  $ 0.02     $ 0.01     $ 0.02     $ 0.03  
Diluted
  $ 0.02     $ 0.01     $ 0.02     $ 0.03  
                                 
2013
                               
                                 
Interest income
  $ 9,544     $ 9,339     $ 9,215     $ 9,107  
Interest expense
    1,106       1,113       1,117       1,254  
Net interest income
    8,438       8,226       8,098       7,853  
Provision for loan losses
    3,760       250       925       -  
Non-interest income
    2,211       1,892       2,870       2,243  
Non-interest expense
    10,117       12,108       9,056       9,130  
Provision (benefit) for income taxes
    33       (18 )     (24 )     (26 )
Net income (loss)
  $ (3,261 )   $ (2,222 )   $ 1,011     $ 992  
                                 
Net income (loss) per share (1) :
                               
Basic
  $ (0.13 )   $ (0.09 )   $ 0.04     $ 0.04  
Diluted
  $ (0.13 )   $ (0.09 )   $ 0.04     $ 0.04  

(1)
Quarterly net income (loss) per share does not add to full year net income (loss) per share due to rounding.

Item 9:  Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
 
None.
 
Item 9A:  Controls and Procedures
 
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures  

The Company maintains disclosure controls and procedures designed to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed in reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms and accumulated and communicated to the Company’s management, including the Company’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
 
 
 
 
113
 

 
 The Company’s management, with the participation of the principal executive officer and the principal financial officer, conducted an evaluation, as of the end of the period covered by this report, of the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures, as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e). Based on this evaluation, the principal executive officer and the principal financial officer have concluded that, as of the end of the period covered by this report, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Rule 13a-15(e), were effective at the reasonable assurance level.

Changes in Internal Controls

The principal executive officer and principal financial officer also conducted an evaluation of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting (“Internal Control”) to determine whether any changes in Internal Control occurred during the quarter ended December 31, 2014 that have materially affected or which are reasonably likely to materially affect Internal Control.  Based on that evaluation, there has been no such change during the quarter ended December 31, 2014.

Management’s Report on Internal Controls

Management of Republic First Bancorp, Inc. (the “Company”) is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act.
 
The Company’s management, under the supervision and with the participation of the principal executive officer and principal financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, as of December 31, 2014, based on the framework in Internal Control – Integrated Framework 2013 issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on this evaluation under the framework in Internal Control – Integrated Framework 2013, management of the Company has concluded the Company maintained effective internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Securities Exchange Act of 1934 Rules 13a-15(f), as of December 31, 2014.
 
Limitations on the Effectiveness of Controls

Control systems, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, not an absolute, level of assurance that the objectives of the control system are met.  The design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs. Further, because of the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that misstatements due to error or fraud will not occur or that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, have been detected. The design of any system of controls is based in part on certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals under all potential future conditions. Projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of controls to future periods are subject to risks. Over time, controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions or deterioration in the degree of compliance with policies or procedures.
 
BDO, an independent registered public accounting firm, has audited the Company’s consolidated financial statements as of and for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, as stated in their reports, which are included herein.


 
114
 
 
 
Tel: 717-233-8800
Fax: 717-233-8801
www.bdo.com
945 E. Park Drive, Suite 103
Harrisburg, PA 17111

 
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
 
 
Board of Directors and Shareholders
Republic First Bancorp, Inc.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
 
We have audited Republic First Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries (the "Company") internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (the COSO criteria). The Bancorp's management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management's Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.
 
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
 
A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
 
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
 
In our opinion, Republic First Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on the COSO criteria.
 
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of Republic First Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), changes in shareholders' equity, and cash flows for the years then ended and our report dated March 13, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion.
 
 
 
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
March 13, 2015


 
 
115
 

 
Item 9B:  Other Information
 
None.

PART III

Item 10:    Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
 
Except as set forth below, the information required by this Item is incorporated by reference from the definitive proxy materials of the Company to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission in connection with the Company’s 2015 annual meeting of shareholders, including, but not necessarily limited to, the sections entitled “Board of Directors and Committees” and “Executive Officers and Compensation.”

The Company has adopted a code of ethics that applies to the Company’s principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions. The text of the Company’s code of ethics is available on the Company’s website at www.myrepublicbank.com . We intend to disclose any changes in or revision to our code of ethics on our website , if applicable.
 
Item 11:  Executive Compensation
 
The information required by this Item is incorporated by reference from the definitive proxy materials of the Company to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission in connection with the Company’s 2015 annual meeting of shareholders, including, but not necessarily limited to, the section entitled “Executive Officers and Compensation.”
 
Item 12:  Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
 
Except as set forth below, the information required by this Item is incorporated by reference from the definitive proxy materials of the Company to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission in connection with the Company’s 2015 annual meeting of shareholders, including, but not necessarily limited to, the section entitled “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management.”



 
116
 

 

The following table sets forth information as of December 31, 2014, with respect to the shares of common stock that may be issued under the Company’s existing equity compensation plans.

 
 
 
 
Plan Category
Number of Shares to be Issued Upon Exercise of Outstanding Options, Warrants and Rights
Weighted-Average Exercise Price of Outstanding Options, Warrants and Rights
Number of Shares Remaining Available for Future Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans (Excluding Securities Reflected in First Column)
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders
1,494,399
$3.59
(1)(2)
       
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders
-
-
-
       
Total
1,494,399
$3.59
(1)(2)

 (1) The Stock Option and Restricted Stock Plan originally adopted in 1995 and subsequently amended and restated in 2005, includes an “evergreen formula” which provides that the  maximum number of shares which may be issued is 1,540,000 shares plus an annual increase equal to the number of shares required to restore the maximum number of shares available for grant to 1,540,000 shares.

(2) The 2014 Republic First Bancorp, Inc. Equity Incentive Plan provides for 2,600,000 shares of common stock plus an annual adjustment to be no less than 10% of the outstanding shares or such lower number as the Board of Directors may determine, to be available for such grants.


Item 13:  Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
 
The information required by this Item is incorporated by reference from the definitive proxy materials of the Company to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission in connection with the Company’s 2015 annual meeting of shareholders, including, but not necessarily limited to, the sections entitled “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions” and “Board of Directors and Committees.”
 
Item 14.  Principal Accountant Fees and Services
 
The information required by this Item is incorporated by reference from the definitive proxy materials of the Company to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission in connection with the Company’s 2015 annual meeting of shareholders, including, but not necessarily limited to, the section entitled “Information Regarding Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm”.



 
117
 





PART IV

Item 15.  Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules

(a)
(1) The following financial statements and related documents of Republic First Bancorp, Inc. are filed as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K in Part II – Item 8 “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data”:
 
a.
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2014 and 2013;
 
b.
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012;
 
c.
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012;
 
d.
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012;
 
e.
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012; and
 
f.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

(a)
(2) None

(a)
(3) The exhibits filed or furnished, as applicable, as part of this report are listed under Exhibits at subsection (b) of this Item 15.

(b)
Exhibits

        The following Exhibits are filed as part of this report.

Exhibit Number
Description
Location
3.1
Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of Republic First Bancorp, Inc.
Incorporated by reference to Form 8-K filed May 13, 2010
     
3.2
Amended and Restated By-Laws of Republic First Bancorp, Inc.
Incorporated by reference to Form S-1 filed April 23, 2010  (333-166286)
     
4.1
The Company will furnish to the SEC upon request copies of the following documents relating to the Company’s Floating Rate Junior Subordinated Debt Securities due 2037:  (i) Indenture dated as of December 27, 2006, between the Company and Wilmington Trust Company, as trustee; (ii) Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust of Republic Capital Trust II, dated as of December 27, 2006; and (iii) Guarantee Agreement dated as of December 27, 2006, between the Company and Wilmington Trust Company, as trustee, for the benefit of the holders of the capital securities of Republic Capital Trust II
 


 
118
 



Exhibit Number
Description
Location
4.2
The Company will furnish to the SEC upon request copies of the following documents relating to the Company’s Floating Rate Junior Subordinated Debt Securities due 2037: (i) Indenture dated as of June 28, 2007, between the Company and Wilmington Trust Company, as trustee; (ii) Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust of Republic Capital Trust III, dated as of June 28, 2007; and (iii) Guarantee Agreement dated as of June 28, 2007, between the Company and Wilmington Trust Company, as trustee, for the benefit of the holders of the capital securities of Republic Capital Trust III
 
     
4.3
The Company will furnish to the SEC upon request copies of the following documents relating to the Company’s Fixed Rate Junior Subordinated Convertible Debt Securities due 2038: (i) Indenture dated as of June 10, 2008, between the Company and Wilmington Trust Company, as trustee; (ii) Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust of Republic First Bancorp Capital Trust IV, dated as of June 10, 2008; and (iii) Guarantee Agreement dated as of June 10, 2008, between the Company and Wilmington Trust Company, as trustee, for the benefit of the holders of the capital securities of Republic First Bancorp Capital Trust IV
 
     
10.1
Employment Agreement between the Company and Harry D. Madonna, dated May 10, 2013*
Incorporated by reference to Form 10-Q filed May 10, 2013
     
10.2
Amended and Restated Stock Option Plan and Restricted Stock Plan*
Incorporated by reference to Form 10-K filed March 10, 2008
     
10.3
Deferred Compensation Plan*
Incorporated by reference to Form 10-K filed March 16, 2010
     
10.4
Amended and Restated Supplemental Retirement Plan Agreements between Republic First Bank and Certain Directors*
Incorporated by reference to Form 10-Q filed November 7, 2008
     
10.5
Purchase Agreement among Republic First Bancorp, Inc., Republic First Bancorp Capital Trust IV, and Purchasers of the Trust IV Capital Securities
Incorporated by reference to Form 10-Q filed November 7, 2008
     
 
 
 
119
 
 

 
Exhibit Number
Description
Location
10.6
Registration Rights Agreement among Republic First Bancorp, Inc. and the Holders of the Trust IV Capital Securities
Incorporated by reference to Form10-Q filed November 7, 2008
     
10.7
Consulting Agreement between Republic First Bancorp, Inc. and Vernon W. Hill, II
Incorporated by reference to Form 10-Q filed November 7, 2008
     
10.8
Employment Agreement between Republic First Bank and Andrew J. Logue, dated August 20, 2008*
Incorporated by reference to Form S-1 filed April 23, 2010 (333-166286)
     
10.9
Employment Agreement between Republic First Bank and Rhonda S. Costello, dated August 25, 2008*
Incorporated by reference to Form S-1 filed April 23, 2010 (333-166286)
     
10.10
Form of Option Award*
Incorporated by reference to Form S-1 filed April 23, 2010 (333-166286)
     
10.11
Amendment to Employment Agreement, by and between Andrew J. Logue and Republic First Bank, dated April 26, 2010*
Incorporated by reference to Form 8-K filed May 4, 2010
     
10.12
Amendment to Employment Agreement, by and between Andrew J. Logue and Republic First Bank, dated March 13, 2013.*
 
Incorporated by reference to Form 10-Q filed May 10, 2013
     
10.13
Amendment to Employment Agreement, by and between Rhonda Costello and Republic First Bank, dated March 13, 2013.*
 
Incorporated by reference to Form 10-Q filed May 10, 2013
     
10.14
Letter Agreement, by and between Jay Neilon and the Company, dated March 13, 2013.*
 
Incorporated by reference to Form 10-Q filed May 10, 2013
     
10.15
Letter Agreement, by and between Frank A. Cavallaro and the Company, dated March 13, 2013.*
 
Incorporated by reference to Form 10-Q filed May 10, 2013
     
10.16
Republic First Bancorp, Inc. 2014
Equity Incentive Plan*
Incorporated by reference to the definitive proxy statement on Schedule 14A filed on March 26, 2014
     
10.17
Form of Incentive Stock Option Award - 2014
Equity Incentive Plan*
     
 
 
 
120
 
 
 
Exhibit Number
Description
Location
 10.18
Form of Nonqualified Stock Option Award - 2014
Equity Incentive Plan*
     
10.19
Form of Investment Agreement
Incorporated by reference to Form 8-K filed on April 22, 2014
     
21.1 Subsidiaries of the Company 
     
23.1
Consent of BDO USA, LLP
     
23.2
Consent of Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP
     
31.1
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Republic First Bancorp, Inc.

31.2
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Chief Financial Officer of Republic First Bancorp, Inc.
     
32.1
Section 1350 Certification of Harry D. Madonna
     
32.2
Section 1350 Certification of Frank A. Cavallaro
     
101
The following materials from the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014, formatted in XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language); (i) Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, (ii) Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, (iii) Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, (iv) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, (v) Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, and (vi) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
     
* Constitutes a management compensation agreement or arrangement.
 

(c)
All financial statement schedules are omitted because the required information is not present or not present in amounts sufficient to require submission of the schedule or because the information required is included in the respective financial statements or notes thereto contained herein.
 
 
 
121
 
 
 
 
 

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this Report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

   
REPUBLIC FIRST BANCORP, INC.
     
Date:   March 13, 201 5
By:
/s/ Harry D. Madonna
   
Harry D. Madonna
   
Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer
   
(principal executive officer)
     
Date:    March 13, 201 5
By:
/s/ Frank A. Cavallaro
   
Frank A. Cavallaro
   
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
   
(principal financial and accounting officer)

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this Report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Date:  March 13, 2015
By:
/s/ Robert Coleman
   
Robert Coleman, Director
     
Date:  March 13, 2015
By:
/s/ Theodore J. Flocco, Jr.
   
Theodore J. Flocco, Jr., Director
     
Date:  March 13, 2015
By:
/s/ Harry D. Madonna
   
Harry D. Madonna, Director and Chairman of the Board
     
Date:  March 13, 2015
By:
/s/ Barry L. Spevak
   
Barry L. Spevak, Director
     
Date:  March 13, 2015
By:
/s/ Brian P. Tierney
   
Brian P. Tierney, Director
     
Date:  March 13, 2015
By:
/s/ Harris Wildstein, Esq.
   
Harris Wildstein, Esq., Director



 
 122
 
 
 
 
Exhibit 10.17


INCENTIVE STOCK OPTION


NAME:
   
   
ADDRESS:
   
   
DATE:
   
   
 
You are hereby granted an option, effective as of the date hereof (the “Grant Date”), to purchase, _____ shares of Common Stock (par value $.01 per share) of Republic First Bancorp, Inc. (the “Company”) at a price of _____ per share pursuant to the 2014 Equity Incentive Plan of Republic First Bancorp, Inc. (the “Plan”) adopted by the Company’s Board of Directors effective April 29, 2014.  Capitalized terms used but not defined herein will have the meaning ascribed to them in the Plan.
 
Your option price is intended to be equal to the fair market value of the Company’s Common Stock on the Grant Date as determined pursuant to the Plan.
 
The option granted hereby shall vest in full on ________________. However, if you have been continuously employed by the Company for at least four years prior to the Grant Date, this option shall vest 25% each year commencing on the first anniversary of the Grant Date until vested in full. If   a Change of Control shall occur, the option granted hereby shall vest in full upon the occurrence of such Change of Control.
 
You may exercise your option by giving written notice to the Secretary of the Company on forms supplied by the Company at its principal executive office, accompanied by payment of the option price for the total number of shares you specify that you wish to purchase.  The payment may be in any of the following forms: (1) cash; (2) certificates representing Common Stock of the Company having a fair market value (as defined in the Plan) on the date of exercise equal to the option price with the delivery of such certificates to the Company or as may otherwise made available, accompanied by an assignment of the stock to the Company, or (3) any combinations of cash and Common Stock of the Company valued as provided in clause (2).  Any assignment of stock shall be in a form and substance satisfactory to the Secretary of the Company, including guarantees of signature(s) and payment of all transfer taxes if deemed such guarantees necessary or desirable. You may also exercise your option through a cashless exercise transaction as permitted by the Company’s policies and procedures.
 
Your option will expire in all events on its “Expiration Date” (which is the day prior to the tenth (10 th ) anniversary of the Grant Date, or, the day prior to the fifth (5 th ) anniversary of the Grant Date if, as of the Grant Date, you own stock possessing more than 10% of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock of the Company or of its parent or subsidiary corporations).  Furthermore, your option may expire prior to its Expiration Date in the event your employment with the Company or a Company subsidiary corporation terminates (including by death or disability) as follows:
 

 
 
·
In the event your employment is terminated by the Company (other than for Cause, death or disability), your option will, to the extent not previously exercised by you, terminate on the first to occur of its Expiration Date or three months after the date on which your employment by the Company or a Company subsidiary corporation is terminated;
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
·
In the event your employment terminates by reason of disability (as defined in Section 22(e)(3)   of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code") or death, your option will terminate on the first to occur of its Expiration Date or one year after such termination of employment; and
 
 
·
In the event your employment is terminated by the Company for Cause or you voluntarily terminate employment, your option will, to the extent not previously exercised by you, terminate on the date on which your employment by the Company or a Company subsidiary corporation is terminated.
 
After the date your employment is terminated, you may exercise this option, if applicable, only for the number of shares which you had a right to purchase on the date your employment terminated.  If you are employed by a Company subsidiary corporation, your employment shall be deemed to have terminated on the date your employer ceases to be a Company subsidiary corporation, unless you are on that date transferred to the Company or another Company subsidiary corporation.  Your employment shall not be deemed to have terminated if you are transferred from the Company to a Company subsidiary corporation, or vice versa, or from one Company subsidiary corporation to another Company subsidiary corporation.
 
This option is not transferable by you otherwise than by will or the laws of decent and distribution and is exercisable, during your lifetime, only by you.  If you die while employed by the Company or a Company subsidiary, your legatee(s), distributee(s), executor or administrator, as the case may be, may, at any time within one year after the date of your death (but in no event later than ten years after the Grant Date) exercise the option as to any shares which you had a right to purchase and did not purchase during your lifetime.  If your employment by the Company or a Company subsidiary corporation is terminated by reason of your becoming disabled (within the meaning of Section 22(e)(3)   of the Code and the regulations thereunder), you or your legal guardian or custodian may at any time within one year after the date of such termination (but in no event later than ten years after the Grant Date), exercise the option as to any shares, which you have a right to purchase and did not purchase prior to such termination.  Your executor, administrator, guardian or custodian must present proof of this authority satisfactory to the Company prior to being allowed to exercise this option.
 
Until the option price has been paid in full pursuant to due exercise of this option and the purchases shares are delivered to you, you do not have any rights as a stockholder of   the Company.  The Company reserves the right not to deliver to you the shares purchased by virtue of the exercise of this option during any period of time in which the Company deems, in its sole discretion, but such delivery would violate a federal, state, local or securities exchange rule, regulation or law.
 
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, this option is not exercisable until all the following events occur and during the following periods of time:
 
(1)           Until the Plan pursuant to which this option is granted is approved by the stockholders of the Company is manner prescribed by the Code and the regulations thereunder;
 
 
 
 
 
2
 
 
 
(2)           Until this option and the optioned shares are approved and/or registered with such federal, state or local regulatory bodies or agencies and securities exchanges as the Company may deem necessary or desirable;
 
(3)           During any period of time in which the Company deems that the exercisability of this option, the offer to sell the shares optioned hereunder, or the sale hereof, may violate a federal, state, local or securities exchange rule, regulation or law, or may cause the Company to be legally obligated to issue or sell more shares than the Company is legally entitled to issue or sell.
 
It is the intention of the Company and you that this option shall (if possible) be an “Incentive Stock Option” as that term is used in Section 422 of the Code and the regulations thereunder.  In the event this option is in any way inconsistent with the legal requirements of the Code or the regulations thereunder for an “Incentive Stock Option,” this option shall be deemed automatically amended as of the date hereof to conform to such legal requirements, if such conformity may be achieved by amendment and shall, in any other case, be treated as a Nonqualified Stock Option to the extent it does not qualify as an Incentive Stock Option.
 
In the event you engage in a Harmful Activity (as defined in the Plan) while employed by the Company or a subsidiary or during the period of 12 months following termination of employment, you shall also be subject to the forfeiture and repayment provisions described in Section 18 of the Plan.

This option shall be subject to the terms of the Plan in effect on the date this option is granted, which terms are hereby incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof.  In the event of any conflict between the terms of this option and terms of the Plan in   effect on the date of this option, the terms of the Plan shall govern.  This option constitutes the entire understanding between the Company and you with respect to the subject matter hereof and no amendment, modification or waiver of this option, in whole or in part, shall be binding upon the Company unless in writing and signed by an appropriate officer of the Company.  This option and the performance of the parties hereunder shall be construed in accordance with and governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Please sign the copy of this option and return it to the Company’s Secretary, thereby indicating your understanding of and agreement with its terms and conditions.
 

 
 
REPUBLIC FIRST BANCORP, INC.
   
   
I hereby acknowledge receipt of a copy of the Plan and the foregoing agreement and, having understood the terms and provisions thereof, hereby signify my understanding of, and my agreement with, its terms and conditions.
   
   
                                                                                                                                                        
Signature Date
   
   
 
 
 
 3
 
 
 
Exhibit 10.18
 NONQUALIFIED STOCK OPTION


NAME:
 
   
ADDRESS:
 
   
DATE:
 
   
 
You are hereby granted an option, effective as of the date hereof (the “Grant Date”), to purchase, _____ shares of Common Stock (par value $.01 per share) of Republic First Bancorp, Inc. (the “Company”) at a price of _____ per share pursuant to the 2014 Equity Incentive Plan of Republic First Bancorp, Inc. (the “Plan”) adopted by the Company’s Board of Directors effective April 29, 2014.  Capitalized terms used but not defined herein will have the meaning ascribed to them in the Plan.
 
Your option price is intended to be equal to the fair market value of the Company’s Common Stock on the Grant Date as determined pursuant to the Plan.
 
The option granted hereby shall vest in full on ________________. If   a Change of Control shall occur, the option granted hereby shall vest in full upon the occurrence of such Change of Control.
 
You may exercise your option by giving written notice to the Secretary of the Company on forms supplied by the Company at its principal executive office, accompanied by payment of the option price for the total number of shares you specify that you wish to purchase.  The payment may be in any of the following forms: (1) cash; (2) certificates representing Common Stock of the Company having a fair market value (as defined in the Plan) on the date of exercise equal to the option price with the delivery of such certificates to the Company or as may otherwise made available, accompanied by an assignment of the stock to the Company, or (3) any combinations of cash and Common Stock of the Company valued as provided in clause (2).  Any assignment of stock shall be in a form and substance satisfactory to the Secretary of the Company, including guarantees of signature(s) and payment of all transfer taxes if he deems such guarantees necessary or desirable. You may also exercise your option through a cashless exercise transaction as permitted by the Company’s policies and procedures.
 
Your option will expire in all events on its “Expiration Date” (which is the day prior to the tenth (10 th ) anniversary of the Grant Date.  Furthermore, your option may expire prior to its Expiration Date in the event your employment or service as a Non-Employee Director with the Company or a Company subsidiary corporation terminates (including by death or disability) as follows:
 
 
·
In the event your employment or service as a Non-Employee Director is terminated by the Company (other than for Cause, death or disability), your option will, to the extent not previously exercised by you, terminate on the first to occur of its Expiration Date or three months after the date on which your employment by or service to the Company or a Company subsidiary corporation is terminated;
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
·
In the event your employment or service as a Non-Employee Director terminates by reason of disability (as defined in Section 22(e)(3)   of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code") or death, your option will terminate on the first to occur of its Expiration Date or one year after such termination of employment or service; and
 
 
·
In the event your employment or service as a Non-Employee Director is terminated by the Company for Cause or you voluntarily terminate employment or service, your option will, to the extent not previously exercised by you, terminate on the date on which your employment by, or service to, the Company or a Company subsidiary corporation is terminated.
 
After the date your employment or service as a Non-Employee Director is terminated, you may exercise this option, if applicable, only for the number of shares which you had a right to purchase on the date your employment or service terminated.  If you are employed by a Company subsidiary corporation, your employment shall be deemed to have terminated on the date your employer ceases to be a Company subsidiary corporation, unless you are on that date transferred to the Company or another Company subsidiary corporation.  Your employment shall not be deemed to have terminated if you are transferred from the Company to a Company subsidiary corporation, or vice versa, or from one Company subsidiary corporation to another Company subsidiary corporation.
 
This option is not transferable by you otherwise than by will or the laws of decent and distribution and is exercisable, during your lifetime, only by you.  If you die while employed by, or serving as a Non-Employee Director of, the Company or a Company subsidiary, your legatee(s), distributee(s), executor or administrator, as the case may be, may, at any time within one year after the date of your death (but in no event later than ten years after the Grant Date) exercise the option as to any shares which you had a right to purchase and did not purchase during your lifetime.  If your employment by, or service as a Non-Employee Director of, the Company or a Company subsidiary corporation is terminated by reason of your becoming disabled (within the meaning of Section 22(e)(3)   of the Code and the regulations thereunder), you or your legal guardian or custodian may at any time within one year after the date of such termination (but in no event later than ten years after the Grant Date), exercise the option as to any shares, which you have a right to purchase and did not purchase prior to such termination.  Your executor, administrator, guardian or custodian must present proof of this authority satisfactory to the Company prior to being allowed to exercise this option.
 
Until the option price has been paid in full pursuant to due exercise of this option and the purchases shares are delivered to you, you do not have any rights as a stockholder of   the Company.  The Company reserves the right not to deliver to you the shares purchased by virtue of the exercise of this option during any period of time in which the Company deems, in its sole discretion, but such delivery would violate a federal, state, local or securities exchange rule, regulation or law.
 
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, this option is not exercisable until all the following events occur and during the following periods of time:
 
(1)           Until the Plan pursuant to which this option is granted is approved by the stockholders of the Company is manner prescribed by the Code and the regulations thereunder;
 
(2)           Until this option and the optioned shares are approved and/or registered with such federal, state or local regulatory bodies or agencies and securities exchanges as the Company may deem necessary or desirable;
 
(3)           During any period of time in which the Company deems that the exercisability of this option, the offer to sell the shares optioned hereunder, or the sale hereof, may violate a federal, state, local or securities exchange rule, regulation or law, or may cause the Company to be legally obligated to issue or sell more shares than the Company is legally entitled to issue or sell.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
It is the intention of the Company and you that this option shall be a Nonqualified Stock Option.
 

In the event you engage in a Harmful Activity (as defined in the Plan) while employed by, or serving as a Non-Employee Director of, the Company or a subsidiary or during the period of 12 months following termination of employment or service, you shall also be subject to the forfeiture and repayment provisions described in Section 18 of the Plan.

This option shall be subject to the terms of the Plan in effect on the date this option is granted, which terms are hereby incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof.  In the event of any conflict between the terms of this option and terms of the Plan in   effect on the date of this option, the terms of the Plan shall govern.  This option constitutes the entire understanding between the Company and you with respect to the subject matter hereof and no amendment, modification or waiver of this option, in whole or in part, shall be binding upon the Company unless in writing and signed by an appropriate officer of the Company.  This option and the performance of the parties hereunder shall be construed in accordance with and governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Please sign the copy of this option and return it to the Company’s Secretary, thereby indicating your understanding of and agreement with its terms and conditions.
 
 
REPUBLIC FIRST BANCORP, INC.
   
   
   
I hereby acknowledge receipt of a copy of the Plan and the foregoing agreement and, having understood the terms and provisions thereof, hereby signify my understanding of, and my agreement with, its terms and conditions.
   
   
                                                                                                                                                         
Signature
Date
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Exhibit 21.1

 
SUBSIDIARIES OF THE COMPANY
       
       
 
Subsidiary Name
 
Jurisdiction of Organization
       
 
Subsidiaries of Republic First Bancorp, Inc .
   
       
 
Republic First Bank (dba Republic Bank)
 
Pennsylvania
 
Republic Capital Trust II
 
Delaware
 
Republic Capital Trust III
 
Delaware
 
Republic First Bancorp Capital Trust IV
 
Delaware
       
 
 
 
 
 
Exhibit 23.1
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
 
Republic First Bancorp, Inc.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
 
We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements on Form 5-3 (No. 333-196024) and Form 5-8 (No. 333-57578 and No. 333-200868) of Republic First Bancorp, Inc. of our reports dated March 13, 2015, relating to the consolidated financial statements and the effectiveness of the Republic First Bancorp, Inc.'s internal control over financial reporting, which appears in this Form 10-K.
 

 
 
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
March 13, 2015


 
 
 
 
 
Exhibit 23.2
 
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
 
Republic First Bancorp, Inc.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

 
We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement on Form S-8 No. 333-57578 of Republic First Bancorp, Inc. and subsidiaries of our report dated March 15, 2013, relating to the consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), changes in shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2012 which appears in this Form 10-K.
 
/s/ Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
March 13, 2015

 
 

 
Exhibit 31.1
REPUBLIC FIRST BANCORP, INC.
CERTIFICATIONS PURSUANT TO
SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

I, Harry D. Madonna, certify that:

1.
I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014 of Republic First Bancorp, Inc.;

2.
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4.
The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a–15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

 
(a)
Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

 
(b)
Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

 
(c)
Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

 
(d)
Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5.
The registrant's other certifying officers and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

 
(a)
All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

 
(b)
Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

Date : March 13, 201 5
/s/ Harry D. Madonna
   
 
Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer
   
 
 
 
 

 
Exhibit 31.2
REPUBLIC FIRST BANCORP, INC.
CERTIFICATIONS PURSUANT TO
SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

I, Frank A. Cavallaro, certify that:

1.
I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014 of Republic First Bancorp, Inc.;

2.
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4.
The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a–15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

 
(a)
Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

 
(b)
Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

 
(c)
Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

 
(d)
Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5.
The registrant's other certifying officers and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

 
(a)
All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

 
(b)
Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

Date: March 13, 201 5
/s/ Frank A. Cavallaro
   
 
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Exhibit 32.1

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission by Republic First Bancorp, Inc. (the "Company") on the date hereof (the "Report"), I, Harry D. Madonna, Chief Executive Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that, to the best of my knowledge:
 
 
(1)
The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
 
 
(2)
The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and result of operations of the Company.
 
Date: March 13, 201 5
/s/ Harry D. Madonna
 
 
Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer
 

The foregoing certification is being furnished solely pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code) and is not being filed as part of the Report or as a separate disclosure document.
 
 
 
 

 
Exhibit 32.2
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission by Republic First Bancorp, Inc. (the "Company") on the date hereof (the "Report"), I, Frank A. Cavallaro, Chief Financial Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that, to the best of my knowledge:
 
 
(1)
The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
 
 
(2)
The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and result of operations of the Company.
 
Date: March 13, 201 5
/s/ Frank A. Cavallaro
 
 
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

The foregoing certification is being furnished solely pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code) and is not being filed as part of the Report or as a separate disclosure document.