UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the Year Ended December 31, 2016

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
Commission file number 0-27782
Dime Community Bancshares, Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware
 
11-3297463
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. employer identification number)
 
300 Cadman Plaza West, 8 th Floor, Brooklyn, NY
 
11201
( Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (718) 782-6200

Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
None

Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
Common Stock, par value $.01 per share
(Title of Class)

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.        YES ☐  NO ☒

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Act.        YES ☐  NO ☒

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 twelve months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.        YES ☒  NO ☐

Indicate by checkmark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    YES ☒  NO ☐

Indicate by checkmark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (Section 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.   ☒

Indicate by checkmark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
 
LARGE ACCELERATED FILER ☐
ACCELERATED FILER ☒
NON-ACCELERATED FILER ☐
SMALLER REPORTING COMPANY ☐
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act): Yes ☐  No ☒

The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of June 30, 2016 was approximately   $524.9 million based upon the $17.01 closing price on the NASDAQ National Market for a share of the registrant’s common stock on June 30, 2016.

         As of March 15, 2017, there were 37,498,771 shares of the registrant’s common stock, $0.01 par value, outstanding.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Portions of the definitive Proxy Statement to be distributed on behalf of the Board of Directors of Registrant in connection with the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on May 25, 2017 and any adjournment thereof, are incorporated by reference in Part III.
 


TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
   
Page
 
PART I
 
Item 1.
 
 
F-3
 
F-4
 
F-5
 
F-7
 
F-8
 
F-9
 
F-11
 
F-12
 
F-12
 
F-12
 
F-13
Item 1A.
F-24
Item 1B.
F-33
Item 2.
F-33
Item 3.
F-33
Item 4.
F-33
 
PART II
 
Item 5.
F-33
Item 6.
F-36
Item 7.
F-38
Item 7A.
F-57
Item 8.
F-59
Item 9.
F-59
Item 9A.
F-59
Item 9B.
F-60
 
PART III
 
Item 10.
F-60
Item 11.
F-60
Item 12.
F-61
Item 13.
F-61
Item 14.
F-61
 
PART IV
 
Item 15.
F-61
 
F-62
 
F-2

This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains a number of forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”).  These statements may be identified by use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “seek,” “may,” “outlook,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “will,” “would” and similar terms and phrases, including references to assumptions.

Forward-looking statements are based upon various assumptions and analyses made by Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. (the “Holding Company,” and together with its direct and indirect subsidiaries, the “Company”) in light of management’s experience and its perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors it believes appropriate under the circumstances. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors (many of which are beyond the Company’s control) that could cause actual conditions or results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These factors include, without limitation, the following:

·
the timing and occurrence or non-occurrence of events may be subject to circumstances beyond the Company’s control;
·
there may be increases in competitive pressure among financial institutions or from non-financial institutions;
·
the net interest margin is subject to material short-term fluctuation based upon market rates;
·
changes in deposit flows, loan demand or real estate values may adversely affect the business of Dime Community Bank ( f/k/a The Dime Savings Bank of Williamsburgh) (the “Bank”);
·
changes in accounting principles, policies or guidelines may cause the Company’s financial condition to be perceived differently;
·
changes in corporate and/or individual income tax laws may adversely affect the Company’s business or financial condition;
·
general economic conditions, either nationally or locally in some or all areas in which the Company conducts business, or conditions in the securities markets or the banking industry, may be less favorable than the Company currently anticipates;
·
legislation or regulatory changes may adversely affect the Company’s business;
·
technological changes may be more difficult or expensive than the Company anticipates;
·
success or consummation of new business initiatives may be more difficult or expensive than the Company anticipates;
·
litigation or other matters before regulatory agencies, whether currently existing or commencing in the future, may delay the occurrence or non-occurrence of events longer than the Company anticipates; and
·
Other risks, as enumerated in the section entitled “Risk Factors.”

The Company has no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this document.

PART I

Item 1.   Business

General

The Holding Company is a Delaware corporation and parent company of the Bank, a New York State chartered savings bank. The Bank maintains its headquarters in the Williamsburg section of Brooklyn, New York, and as of December 31, 2016, operated twenty-five full service retail banking offices located in the New York City (“NYC”) boroughs of Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx, and in Nassau County, New York. The Bank opened two additional branches located in Brooklyn, New York in February 2017. The Bank’s principal business is gathering deposits from customers within its market area and via the internet, and investing them primarily in multifamily residential, commercial real estate and mixed use loans, mortgage-backed securities (“MBS”), obligations of the U.S. Government and Government Sponsored Entities (“GSEs”), and corporate debt and equity securities.  All of the Bank’s lending occurs in the greater NYC metropolitan area.  The Bank’s revenues are derived principally from interest on its loan and securities portfolios, and other investments. The Bank’s primary sources of funds are, in general, deposits; loan amortization, prepayments and maturities; MBS amortization, prepayments and maturities; investment securities maturities and sales; and advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York (“FHLBNY”).
 
The primary business of the Holding Company is the ownership of its wholly-owned subsidiary, the Bank. The Holding Company is a unitary savings and loan holding company, which, under existing law, is generally not restricted as to the types of business activities in which it may engage.

The Holding Company neither owns nor leases any property, but instead uses the premises and equipment of the Bank.  The Holding Company employs no persons other than certain officers of the Bank, who receive no additional compensation as officers of the Holding Company.  The Holding Company utilizes the support staff of the Bank from time to time, as required.  Additional employees may be hired as deemed appropriate by Holding Company management.

The Company’s website address is www.dime.com . The Company makes available free of charge through its website, by clicking the Investor Relations tab and selecting “SEC Filings” under “Investor Menu,” its Annual and Transition Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to these reports as soon as reasonably practicable after such material is electronically filed with or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”).

Market Area and Competition

The Bank has historically operated as a community-oriented financial institution providing financial services and loans primarily for multifamily housing within its market areas.  The Bank maintains its headquarters in the borough of Brooklyn, New York, and as of December 31, 2016 operated twenty-five full-service retail banking offices located in the NYC boroughs of Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx, and in Nassau County, New York.  The Bank opened two additional branches located in Brooklyn, New York in February 2017.  The Bank gathers deposits primarily from the communities and neighborhoods in close proximity to its branches, and via the internet.  The Bank’s primary lending area is the NYC metropolitan area, although it’s overall lending area is larger, extending approximately 50 miles in each direction from its corporate headquarters in Brooklyn.  The majority of the Bank’s mortgage loans are secured by properties located in its primary lending area, with approximately 89% secured by real estate located in the NYC boroughs of Brooklyn, Queens and Manhattan on December 31, 2016.

The NYC banking environment is extremely competitive.  The Bank’s competition for loans exists principally from other savings banks, commercial banks, mortgage banks, internet banks and insurance companies. The Bank continues to face sustained competition for the origination of multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans, which together comprised 99% of the Bank’s loan portfolio at December 31, 2016.

The Bank gathers deposits in direct competition with other savings banks, commercial banks and brokerage firms, many among the largest in the nation.  It must additionally compete for deposit monies with the stock and bond markets, especially during periods of strong performance in those arenas.  Over the previous decade, consolidation in the financial services industry, coupled with the emergence of Internet banking, has dramatically altered the deposit gathering landscape.  Facing increasingly larger and more efficient competitors, the Bank’s strategy to attract depositors has utilized various marketing approaches and the delivery of technology-enhanced, customer-friendly banking services while controlling operating expenses.

Banking competition occurs within an economic and financial marketplace that is largely beyond the control of any individual financial institution.  The interest rates paid to depositors and charged to borrowers, while affected by marketplace competition, are generally a function of broader-based macroeconomic and financial factors, including the U.S. Gross Domestic Product, the supply of, and demand for, loanable funds, and the impact of global trade and international financial markets.  Within this environment, Federal Open Market Committee (“FOMC”) monetary policy and governance of short-term rates also significantly influence the interest rates paid and charged by financial institutions.

The Bank’s success is additionally impacted by the overall condition of the economy, particularly in the NYC metropolitan area.  As home to several national companies in the financial and business services industries, and as a popular destination for domestic and international travelers, the NYC economy is particularly sensitive to the health of both the national and global economies.
 
Lending Activities

The Bank originates primarily non-recourse loans on multifamily and commercial real estate properties to limited liability companies. The Bank’s lending is subject to the Bank’s lending policies, which are approved by the Board’s Lending and CRA Committee on an annual basis.  The types of loans the Bank may originate are subject to New York State laws and regulations (See “Item 1.  Business - Regulation – Regulation of New York State Chartered Savings Banks”).

The Board of Directors of the Bank establishes lending authority levels for the various loan products offered by the Bank. The Bank maintains a Loan Operating Committee which, as of December 31, 2016, consisted of the Chief Executive Officer, President and Chief Operating Officer, Chief Investment Officer, Chief Accounting Officer, Chief Lending Officer, Chief Retail Officer, and Director of Credit Administration.  The Loan Operating Committee may approve any portfolio loan origination, however, larger loans, generally in excess of $500,000, require its approval. All loans approved by the Loan Operating Committee are presented to the Bank’s Board of Directors for its review.

The Bank originates both adjustable-rate mortgages (“ARMs”) and fixed-rate loans, depending upon customer demand and market rates of interest.

Multifamily Residential Lending and Commercial Real Estate Lending

The majority of the Bank’s lending activities consist of originating adjustable- and fixed-rate multifamily residential (generally buildings possessing a minimum of five residential units) and commercial real estate loans. The properties securing these loans are generally located in the Bank’s primary lending area.

Multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans originated by the Bank were secured by three distinct property types as of December 31, 2016: (1) fully residential apartment buildings; (2) “mixed-use” properties featuring a combination of residential and commercial units within the same building; and (3) fully commercial buildings. The underwriting procedures for each of these property types were substantially similar.  The Bank classified loans secured 80% to 100% by income from residential apartment buildings as multifamily residential loans in all instances. Loans secured by fully commercial real estate were classified as commercial real estate loans in all instances. Loans secured by mixed-use properties were classified as either residential mixed use (a component of total multifamily residential loans) or commercial mixed use (a component of total commercial real estate loans) based upon the percentage of the property’s rental income received from its residential as compared to its commercial tenants. If 20% to 80% of the rental income was received from residential tenants, the full balance of the loan was classified as multifamily mixed-use residential. If less than 20% of the rental income was received from residential tenants, the full balance of the loan was classified as mixed-use commercial real estate.

Multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans in the Bank’s portfolio generally range in amount from $250,000 to $5.0 million. Multifamily residential loans in this range are generally secured by buildings that contain between 5 and 100 apartments.

The typical multifamily residential and commercial real estate ARM carries a final maturity of 10 or 12 years, and an amortization period not exceeding 30 years. These loans generally have an interest rate that adjusts once after the fifth or seventh year, indexed to the 5-year FHLBNY advance rate plus a spread typically approximating 250 basis points, but generally may not adjust below the initial interest rate of the loan. Prepayment fees are assessed throughout the majority of the life of the loans. The Bank may also offer interest only loans, i.e. loans that do not amortize principal during part of the contractual maturity period. The Bank also offers fixed-rate, self-amortizing, multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans with maturities of up to fifteen years.

Multifamily residential real estate loans are either retained in the Bank’s portfolio or sold in the secondary market to other third-party financial institutions.  The Bank currently has no formal arrangement pursuant to which it sells commercial or multifamily residential real estate loans to the secondary market.
 
Repayment of multifamily residential loans is dependent, in significant part, on cash flow from the collateral property sufficient to satisfy operating expenses and debt service. Future increases in interest rates, increases in vacancy rates on multifamily residential or commercial buildings, and other economic events which are outside the control of the borrower or the Bank could negatively impact the future net operating income of such properties.  Similarly, government regulations, such as the existing NYC Rent Regulation and Rent Stabilization laws, could limit future increases in the revenue from these buildings.  As a result, rental income might not rise sufficiently over time to satisfy increases in either the loan rate at repricing or in overhead expenses ( e.g. , utilities, taxes, and insurance).

The Bank’s underwriting standards for multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans generally require: (1) a maximum loan-to-value ratio of 75% based upon an appraisal performed by an independent, state licensed appraiser, and (2) sufficient rental income from the underlying property to adequately service the debt, represented by a minimum debt service ratio of 120% for multifamily residential and 125% for commercial real estate loans. The weighted average loan-to-value and debt service ratios approximated 64% and 147%, respectively, on all multifamily residential real estate loans originated during the year ended December 31, 2016, and 53% and 218%, respectively, on commercial real estate loans originated during the year ended December 31, 2016. The Bank additionally requires all multifamily residential and commercial real estate borrowers to represent that they are unaware of any environmental risks directly related to the collateral.  In instances where the Bank’s property inspection procedures indicate a potential environmental risk on a collateral property, the Bank will require a Phase 1 environmental risk analysis to be completed, and will decline loans where any significant residual environmental liability is indicated.  The Bank further considers the borrower’s experience in owning or managing similar properties, the Bank’s lending experience with the borrower, and the borrower’s credit history and business experience.

It is the Bank's policy to require appropriate insurance protection at closing, including title, hazard, and when applicable, flood insurance , on all real estate mortgage loans. Borrowers generally are required to advance funds for certain expenses such as real estate taxes, hazard insurance and flood insurance.
 
Commercial real estate loans are generally viewed as exposing lenders to a greater risk of loss than both one- to four-family and multifamily residential mortgage loans. Because payments on loans secured by commercial real estate are often dependent upon successful operation or management of the collateral properties, as well as the success of the business and retail tenants occupying the properties, repayment of such loans is generally more vulnerable to weak economic conditions. Further, the collateral securing such loans may depreciate over time, be difficult to appraise, or fluctuate in value based upon its rentability, among other commercial factors.  This increased risk is partially mitigated in the following manners: (i) the Bank requires, in addition to the security interest in the commercial real estate, a security interest in the personal property associated with the collateral and standby assignments of rents and leases from the borrower; (ii) the Bank will generally favor investments in mixed-use commercial properties that derive some portion of income from residential units, which provide a more reliable source of cash flow and lower vacancy rates, and (iii) the interest rate on commercial real estate loans generally exceeds that on multifamily residential loans.

As a New York State-chartered savings bank originating loans secured by real estate having a market value at least equal to the loan amount at the time of origination, the Bank is generally not subject to the regulations of its primary regulators, the New York State Department of Financial Services (“NYSDFS”) limiting individual loan or borrower exposures.

One- to Four-Family Residential and Condominium / Cooperative Apartment Lending

Prior to February 2013, the Bank generally sold its newly originated one- to four-family fixed-rate mortgage loans in the secondary market.  During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Bank ceased all one- to four-family fixed-rate mortgage lending in order to focus on its core multifamily residential and commercial real estate lending activities.
 
Home Equity and Home Improvement Loans

The Bank ceased origination of home equity and home improvement loans during the year ended December 31, 2013.  Home equity loans and home improvement loans, the great majority of which are included in one- to four-family loans, were previously originated to a maximum of $500,000.  The combined balance of the first mortgage and home equity or home improvement loan was not permitted to exceed 75% of the appraised value of the collateral property at the time of origination of the home equity or home improvement loan.  Interest on home equity and home improvement loans was initially the “prime lending” rate at the time of origination.  After six months, the interest rate adjusts and ranges from the prime interest rate to 100 basis points above the prime interest rate in effect at the time.  The interest rate on the loan can never fall below the rate at origination.

Equity Lines of Credit on Multifamily Residential and Commercial Real Estate Loans

Equity credit lines are available on multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans.  These loans are underwritten in the same manner as first mortgage loans on these properties, except that the combined first mortgage amount and equity line are used to determine the loan-to-value ratio and minimum debt service coverage ratio.  The interest rate on multifamily residential and commercial real estate equity lines of credit adjusts regularly.

Commercial and Industrial (“C&I”) Loans

As part of its strategic plans for 2017, the Bank is taking steps to grow the C&I loan portfolio. Under this new initiative, the types of products anticipated in the C&I portfolio will include acquisition, land development and construction loans (“ADC”), finance loans and leases, and Small Business Administration (“SBA”) loans in which a portion is guaranteed by the SBA. The Bank did not originate any loans as of December 31, 2016 under this initiative, and had no unfunded construction loan commitments or outstanding ADC loans at December 31, 2016.

Asset Quality

General

The Bank does not originate or purchase loans, either whole loans or loans underlying MBS, which would have been considered subprime loans at origination, i.e ., mortgage loans advanced to borrowers who did not qualify for market interest rates because of problems with their income or credit history.  See Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements for a discussion of impaired investment securities and MBS.

Monitoring and Collection of Delinquent Loans

Management of the Bank reviews delinquent loans on a monthly basis and reports to its Board of Directors at each regularly scheduled Board meeting regarding the status of all non-performing and otherwise delinquent loans in the Bank’s portfolio.

The Bank’s loan servicing policies and procedures require that an automated late notice be sent to a delinquent borrower as soon as possible after a payment is ten days late in the case of multifamily residential or commercial real estate loans, or fifteen days late in connection with one- to four-family or consumer loans.  A second letter is sent to the borrower if payment has not been received within 30 days of the due date.  Thereafter, periodic letters are mailed and phone calls placed to the borrower until payment is received.  When contact is made with the borrower at any time prior to foreclosure, the Bank will attempt to obtain the full payment due or negotiate a repayment schedule with the borrower to avoid foreclosure.

Accrual of interest is generally discontinued on a loan that meets any of the following three criteria:  (i) full payment of principal or interest is not expected; (ii) principal or interest has been in default for a period of 90 days or more (unless the loan is both deemed to be well secured and in the process of collection); or (iii) an election has otherwise been made to maintain the loan on a cash basis due to deterioration in the financial condition of the borrower.  Such non-accrual determination practices are applied consistently to all loans regardless of their internal classification or designation.  Upon entering non-accrual status, the Bank reverses all outstanding accrued interest receivable.
 
The Bank generally initiates foreclosure proceedings when a loan enters non-accrual status based upon non-payment, and typically does not accept partial payments once foreclosure proceedings have commenced.  At some point during foreclosure proceedings, the Bank procures current appraisal information in order to prepare an estimate of the fair value of the underlying collateral.  If a foreclosure action is instituted and the loan is not brought current, paid in full, or refinanced before the foreclosure action is completed, the property securing the loan is transferred to Other Real Estate Owned (“OREO”) status.  The Bank generally attempts to utilize all available remedies, such as note sales in lieu of foreclosure, in an effort to resolve non-accrual loans and OREO properties as quickly and prudently as possible in consideration of market conditions, the physical condition of the property and any other mitigating circumstances.  In the event that a non-accrual loan is subsequently brought current, it is returned to accrual status once the doubt concerning collectability has been removed and the borrower has demonstrated performance in accordance with the loan terms and conditions for a period of at least six months.

Troubled Debt Restructured Loans (“TDRs”)

Under ASC 310-40-15, the Bank is required to recognize loans for which certain modifications or concessions have been made as TDRs.  A TDR has been created in the event that, for economic or legal reasons, a concession has been granted that would not have otherwise been considered to a debtor experiencing financial difficulties. The following criteria are considered concessions:

 
·
A reduction of interest rate has been made for the remaining term of the loan
·
The maturity date of the loan has been extended with a stated interest rate lower than the current market rate for new debt with similar risk
·
The outstanding principal amount and/or accrued interest have been reduced

I n instances in which the interest rate has been reduced, management would not deem the modification a TDR in the event that the reduction in interest rate reflected either a general decline in market interest rates or an effort to maintain a relationship with a borrower who could readily obtain funds from other sources at the current market interest rate, and the terms of the restructured loan are comparable to the terms offered by the Bank to non-troubled debtors.

Accrual status for TDRs is determined separately for each TDR in accordance with the policies for determining accrual or non-accrual status that are outlined in the previous section titled “Monitoring and Collection of Delinquent Loans.” At the time an agreement is entered into between the Bank and the borrower that results in the Bank’s determination that a TDR has been created, the loan can be either on accrual or non-accrual status.  If a loan is on non-accrual status at the time it is restructured, it continues to be classified as non-accrual until the borrower has demonstrated compliance with the modified loan terms for a period of at least six months.  Conversely, if at the time of restructuring the loan is performing (and accruing); it will remain accruing throughout its restructured period, unless the loan subsequently meets any of the criteria for non-accrual status under the Bank’s policy and agency regulations.

The Bank never accepts receivables or equity interests in satisfaction of TDRs.

For TDRs that demonstrate conditions sufficient to warrant accrual status, the present value of the expected net cash flows of the underlying property is utilized as the primary means of determining impairment.  Any shortfall in the present value of the expected net cash flows calculated at each measurement period (typically quarter-end) compared to the present value of the expected net cash flows at the time of the original loan agreement was recognized as either an allocated reserve (in the event that it related to lower expected interest payments) or a charge-off (if related to lower expected principal payments).  For TDRs on non-accrual status, an appraisal of the underlying real estate collateral is deemed the most appropriate measure to utilize when evaluating impairment, and any shortfall in valuation from the recorded balance is accounted for through a charge-off.  In the event that either an allocated reserve or a charge-off is recognized on TDRs, the periodic loan loss provision is impacted.

Allowance for Loan Losses

Accounting Principles Generally Accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) require the Bank to maintain an appropriate allowance for loan losses.  The Bank maintains a Loan Loss Reserve Committee charged with, among other functions, responsibility for monitoring the appropriateness of the loan loss reserve.
 
To assist the Loan Loss Reserve Committee in carrying out its assigned duties, the Bank engages the services of an experienced third-party loan review firm to perform a review of the loan portfolio.  The 2016 review program covered 100% of construction and land development loans and 50% of the non-one- to four-family and consumer loan portfolio.  Included within the annual 50% target were: (1) 100% of the twenty largest loans in the multifamily and commercial real estate loan portfolio; (2) the ten largest pure commercial real estate loans; (3) the ten largest commercial mixed use real estate loans; (4) 100% of the ten largest multifamily residential real estate loans; (5) 100% of the ten largest residential mixed use real estate loans; (6) 30% of all new loan originations during the year; (7) 100% of the internally criticized and classified loans over $250,000; (8) 100% of the twenty largest borrower relationships ; (9) 70% of all commercial real estate loans; (10) all loans over $500,000 that were collateralized by properties located in Long Island, New York; (11) all loans over $500,000 that were scheduled to reprice during the year; (12) all loans over $500,000 that were in the lowest three categories of pass loan grade (including Watch list loans); and (13) 50% of loans over $250,000 originated under the small mixed use lending program.

The Loan Loss Reserve Committee’s findings, along with recommendations for changes to loan loss reserve provisions, if any, are reported directly to the Bank’s executive management and the Lending and CRA Committee of the Board of Directors.

The Loan Loss Reserve Committee evaluates the loan portfolio on a quarterly basis in order to maintain its allowance for loan losses at a level it believes appropriate to absorb probable losses incurred within the Bank’s loan portfolio as of the balance sheet dates.  Factors considered in determining the appropriateness of the allowance for loan losses include the Bank’s past loan loss experience, known and inherent risks in the portfolio, existing adverse situations which may affect a borrower’s ability to repay, estimated value of underlying collateral and current economic conditions in the Bank’s lending area.  Although management uses available information to estimate losses on loans, future additions to, or reductions in, the allowance may be necessary based on changes in economic conditions or other factors beyond management’s control. In addition, the Bank’s regulators, as an integral part of their examination processes, periodically review the Bank’s allowance for loan losses, and may require the Bank to recognize additions to, or reductions in, the allowance based upon judgments different from those of management.

The Bank’s periodic evaluation of its allowance for loan losses has traditionally been comprised of different components, each of which is discussed in Note 5 to the Company’s consolidated audited financial statements.

The Bank also maintains a reserve associated with unfunded loan commitments accepted by the borrower.  This reserve is determined based upon the outstanding volume of loan commitments at each period end.  Any increases or reductions in this reserve are recognized in periodic non-interest expense.

Investment Activities

Investment strategies are implemented by the Asset and Liability Committee (“ALCO”), which, as of December 31, 2016, was comprised of the Chief Operating Officer, Chief Investment Officer, Chief Accounting Officer, Chief Risk Officer, Chief Lending Officer, Chief Retail Officer and other senior officers.  The strategies take into account the overall composition of the Bank’s balance sheet, including loans and deposits, and are intended to protect and enhance the Bank’s earnings and market value, and effectively manage both interest rate risk and liquidity.  The strategies are reviewed periodically by the ALCO and reported to the Board of Directors.

Investment Policy of the Bank

The investment policy of the Bank, which is adopted by its Board of Directors, is designed to help achieve the Bank’s overall asset/liability management objectives while complying with applicable regulations.  Generally, when selecting investments for the Bank’s portfolio, the policy emphasizes principal preservation, liquidity, diversification, short maturities and/or repricing terms, and a favorable return on investment. The policy permits investments in various types of liquid assets, including obligations of the U.S. Treasury and federal agencies, investment grade corporate debt, various types of MBS, commercial paper, certificates of deposit (“CDs”) and overnight federal funds sold to financial institutions.  The Bank’s Board of Directors periodically approves all financial institutions to which the Bank sells federal funds.
 
The Bank’s investment policy limits a combined investment in securities issued by any one entity, with the exception of obligations of the U.S. Government, federal agencies and GSEs, to an amount not exceeding the lesser of either 2% of its total assets or 15% of its total tangible capital (20% of tangible capital in the event all securities of the obligor maintain a “AAA” credit rating).  The Bank was in compliance with this policy limit at both December 31, 2016 and 2015. The Bank may, with Board approval, engage in hedging transactions utilizing derivative instruments.  During the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Bank did not hold any derivative instruments or embedded derivative instruments that required bifurcation.

Federal Agency Obligations

Federal agency obligations are purchased from time to time in order to provide the Bank a favorable yield in comparison to overnight investments.  These securities possess sound credit ratings, and are readily accepted as collateral for the Bank’s borrowings.  The Bank owned no federal agency obligation investments at December 31, 2016.

MBS

The Bank’s investment policy calls for the purchase of only priority tranches when investing in MBS, and typically possess the highest credit rating from at least one nationally recognized rating agency. MBS provide the portfolio with investments offering desirable repricing, cash flow and credit quality characteristics. MBS yield less than the loans that underlie the securities as a result of the cost of payment guarantees and credit enhancements which reduce credit risk to the investor.  Although MBS guaranteed by federally sponsored agencies carry a reduced credit risk compared to whole loans, such securities remain subject to the risk that fluctuating interest rates, along with other factors such as the geographic distribution of the underlying mortgage loans, may alter the prepayment rate of such loans and thus affect the value of such securities.  MBS, however, are more liquid than individual mortgage loans and may readily be used to collateralize borrowings.  MBS also provide the Company with important interest rate risk management features, as the entire portfolio provides monthly cash flow for re-investment at current market interest rates.

Corporate Debt Obligations

The Bank may invest in investment-grade debt obligations of various corporations.  The Bank’s investment policy limits new investments in corporate debt obligations to companies rated single “A” or better by one of the nationally recognized rating agencies at the time of purchase.  As mentioned previously, with certain exceptions, the Bank’s investment policy also limits a combined investment in corporate securities issued by any one entity to an amount not exceeding the lesser of either 2% of its total assets or 15% of its total tangible capital (20% of core capital in the event all securities of the obligor maintain a “AAA” credit rating).

Investment Strategies of the Holding Company

The Holding Company’s investment policy generally calls for investments in relatively short-term, liquid securities similar to those permitted by the securities investment policy of the Bank.  The investment policy calls for the purchase of only priority tranches when investing in MBS, limits new investments in corporate debt obligations to companies rated single “A” or better by one of the nationally recognized rating agencies at the time of purchase, and limits investments in any one corporate entity to the lesser of 1% of total assets or 5% of the Company’s total consolidated capital. The Holding Company may, with Board approval, engage in hedging transactions utilizing derivative instruments. During the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Holding Company did not hold any derivative instruments or embedded derivative instruments that required bifurcation.

Holding Company investments are generally intended primarily to provide future liquidity which may be utilized for general business activities, including, but not limited to: (1) purchases of the Holding Company’s common stock (“Common Stock”) into treasury; (2) repayment of principal and interest on the Holding Company’s $70.7 million trust preferred securities debt; (3) subject to applicable restrictions, the payment of dividends on the Common Stock; and/or (4) investments in the equity securities of other financial institutions and other investments not permitted to the Bank.
 
The Holding Company cannot assure that it will engage in these investment activities in the future.  At December 31, 2016, the Holding Company’s principal asset was its $571.2 million investment in the Bank’s common stock.  This investment in its subsidiary is not actively managed and falls outside of the Holding Company investment policy and strategy discussed above.

GAAP requires that investments in debt securities be classified in one of the following three categories and accounted for accordingly:  trading securities, securities available-for-sale or securities held-to-maturity.  GAAP requires investments in equity securities that have readily determinable fair values be classified as either trading securities or securities available-for-sale.  Unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities are reported as a separate component of stockholders’ equity referred to as accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of deferred taxes.

Sources of Funds

General

The Bank’s primary sources of funding for its lending and investment activities include deposits, loan and MBS payments, investment security principal and interest payments, and advances from the FHLBNY.  The Bank may also sell selected multifamily residential, mixed use and one- to four-family residential real estate loans to private sector secondary market purchasers and has in the past sold such loans to the Federal National Mortgage Association (“FNMA”).  The Company may additionally issue debt under appropriate circumstances.  Although maturities and scheduled amortization of loans and investments are predictable sources of funds, deposit flows and prepayments on mortgage loans and MBS are influenced by interest rates, economic conditions and competition.

Deposits

The Bank offers a variety of deposit accounts possessing a range of interest rates and terms, including savings, money market, interest bearing and non-interest bearing checking accounts, and CDs. The flow of deposits is influenced significantly by general economic conditions, changes in prevailing interest rates, and competition from other financial institutions and investment products. The Bank relies upon direct and general marketing, customer service, convenience and long-standing relationships with customers or borrowers to generate deposits.  The communities in which the Bank maintains branch offices have historically provided the great majority of its deposits.

The Bank is also eligible to participate in the Certificate of Deposit Account Registry Service (“CDARS”), through which it can either purchase or sell CDs.  Purchases of CDs through this program are limited by Bank policy to an aggregate of 10% of the Bank’s average interest earning assets.

Borrowings

The Bank has been a member and shareholder of the FHLBNY since 1980.  One of the privileges offered to FHLBNY shareholders is the ability to secure advances from the FHLBNY under various lending programs at competitive interest rates.
 
Subsidiary Activities

In addition to the Bank, the Holding Company’s direct and indirect subsidiaries consist of nine corporations, two of which are wholly-owned by the Holding Company and seven of which are wholly-owned by the Bank.  The following table presents an overview of the Holding Company’s subsidiaries, other than the Bank, as of December 31, 2016:
 
Subsidiary
Year/ State of Incorporation
 
Primary Business Activities
Direct Subsidiaries of the Holding Company:
   
842 Manhattan Avenue Corp.
1995/ New York
Currently in the process of dissolution.
Dime Community Capital Trust I
2004/ Delaware
Statutory Trust (1)
Direct Subsidiaries of the Bank:
   
Boulevard Funding Corp.
1981 / New York
Management and ownership of real estate
Dime Insurance Agency Inc. ( f/k/a Havemeyer Investments, Inc.)
1997 / New York
Sale of non-FDIC insured investment products
DSBW Preferred Funding Corp.
1998 / Delaware
Real Estate Investment Trust investing in multifamily
   residential and commercial real estate loans
DSBW Residential Preferred Funding Corp.
1998 / Delaware
Real Estate Investment Trust investing in one- to
   four-family real estate loans
Dime Reinvestment Corporation
2004 / Delaware
Community Development Entity.  Currently inactive.
195 Havemeyer Corp.
2008 / New York
Management and ownership of real estate.  Currently inactive.
DSB Holdings NY, LLC
2015 / New York
Management and ownership of real estate.  Currently inactive.

(1)
Dime Community Capital Trust I was established for the exclusive purpose of issuing and selling capital securities and using the proceeds to acquire approximately $70.7 million of junior subordinated debt securities issued by the Holding Company. The junior subordinated debt securities (referred to in this Annual Report as “trust preferred securities payable”) bear an interest rate of 7.0%, mature on April 14, 2034, became callable at any time after April 2009, and are the sole assets of Dime Community Capital Trust I.  In accordance with revised interpretation No. 46, “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities, an interpretation of ARB No. 51,” Dime Community Capital Trust I is not consolidated with the Holding Company for financial reporting purposes.

Personnel

As of December 31, 2016, the Company had 338 full-time and 45 part-time employees.  The employees are not represented by a collective bargaining unit, and the Holding Company and all of its subsidiaries consider their relationships with their employees to be good.

Federal, State and Local Taxation

The following is a general description of material tax matters and does not purport to be a comprehensive review of the tax rules applicable to the Company.
 
Federal Taxation

For federal income tax purposes, the Company files a consolidated income tax return on a December 31st calendar year basis using the accrual method of accounting and is subject to federal income taxation in the same manner as other corporations with some exceptions, including, particularly, the Bank’s tax reserve for bad debts.

State and Local Taxation

The Company is subject to New York State (“NYS”) franchise tax on a consolidated basis.   NYS recently enacted several reforms (the “Tax Reform Package”) to its tax structure, including changes to the franchise, sales, estate and personal income taxes. These changes generally became effective for tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2015.  The Tax Reform Package is intended to simplify the existing corporate tax code for NYS businesses while remaining relatively neutral in relation to corporate tax receipts.

The Company is subject to NYC franchise tax on a consolidated basis. NYC generally conforms its tax law to NYS tax law, and adopted conforming Tax Reform Package provisions similar to those described above for NYS purposes, with only a few minor differences. For tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2015, the NYC income tax rate applied to the Company apportioned NYC taxable income is 8.85%.
 
State of Delaware

As a Delaware holding company not conducting business in Delaware, the Holding Company is exempt from Delaware corporate income tax. However, it is required to file an annual report and pay an annual franchise tax to the State of Delaware based upon its number of authorized shares.

Regulation

General

The Bank is a New York State-chartered stock savings bank.  The Bank’s primary regulator is the NYSDFS, and the Bank’s primary federal regulator is the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”), which regulates and examines state-chartered banks that are not members of the Federal Reserve System (“State Nonmember Banks”).  The FDIC also administers laws and regulations applicable to all FDIC-insured depository institutions.  The Holding Company is subject to regulation and examination by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (“FRB”) and, more specifically, the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia.  The Bank has elected to be treated as a “savings association” under Section 10(l) of the Home Owners’ Loan Act, as amended (“HOLA”), for purposes of the regulation of the Holding Company.  The Holding Company is therefore regulated as a savings and loan holding company by the FRB as long as the Bank continues to satisfy the requirements to remain a “qualified thrift lender”  (“QTL”) under HOLA. If the Bank fails to remain a QTL, the Holding Company must register with the FRB, and be treated as, a bank holding company.  The Holding Company does not expect that regulation as a bank holding company rather than a savings and loan holding company would be a significant change.

The Bank’s deposit accounts are insured up to applicable limits by the FDIC under the Deposit Insurance Fund (“DIF”).  The Bank is required to file reports with both the NYSDFS and the FDIC concerning its activities and financial condition, and to obtain regulatory approval prior to entering into certain transactions, such as mergers with, or acquisitions of, other depository institutions. Both the NYSDFS and the FDIC conduct periodic examinations to assess the Bank’s safety and soundness and compliance with various regulatory requirements. This regulation and supervision establishes a comprehensive framework of activities in which a state-chartered savings bank may engage and is intended primarily for the protection of the DIF and depositors and generally is not intended for the protection of shareholders, investors or creditors other than insured depositors.  As a publicly-held unitary savings bank holding company, the Holding Company is also required to file certain reports with, and otherwise comply with the rules and regulations of, both the SEC, under the federal securities laws, and the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia.

The NYSDFS and the FDIC possess significant discretion in connection with their supervisory and enforcement activities and examination policies, including policies with respect to the classification of assets and the establishment of adequate loan loss reserves for regulatory purposes. Any change in such policies, whether by the NYSDFS, the FDIC or through legislation, could have a material adverse impact on the operations of either the Bank or Holding Company.

The following discussion is intended to be a summary of the material statutes and regulations applicable to NYS chartered savings banks and savings and loan holding companies.  The descriptions are not intended to be complete and are qualified in their entirety by reference to the full text of the statutes and regulations discussed.

Regulation of New York State Chartered Savings Banks

Business Activities.   The Bank derives its lending, investment, and other authority primarily from the New York Banking Law (“NYBL”) and the regulations of the NYSDFS, subject to limitations under applicable FDIC laws and regulations. Pursuant to the NYBL, the Bank may invest in mortgage loans secured by residential and commercial real estate, commercial and consumer loans, certain types of debt securities (including certain corporate debt securities and obligations of federal, state, and local governments and agencies), and certain other assets. The lending powers of New York State-chartered savings banks and commercial banks are not generally subject to percentage-of-assets or capital limitations, although there are limits applicable to loans to individual borrowers.  The Bank may also establish service corporations that may engage in activities not otherwise permissible for the Bank, including certain real estate equity investments and securities and insurance brokerage activities.
 
Recent Financial Regulatory Reforms

The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Reform Act”), which became law in 2010, was intended to address perceived weaknesses in the U.S. financial regulatory system and prevent future economic and financial crises.  The Company believes that the following regulatory reforms, may have an impact on the Company:

The Reform Act created the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (“CFPB”).  With respect to insured depository institutions with less than $10 billion in assets, such as the Bank, the CFPB has rulemaking, but not enforcement, authority for federal consumer protection laws, such as the Truth in Lending Act, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act, and the Truth in Savings Act, among others, and may participate in examinations conducted by the federal bank regulatory agencies to determine compliance with consumer protection laws and regulations.

In December 2013, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (the “OCC”), FRB, FDIC and SEC (collectively, the “Federal Agencies”) adopted the so-called Volcker Rule to implement the provisions of the Reform Act limiting proprietary trading and investing in and sponsoring certain hedge funds and private equity funds (defined as covered funds in the Volcker Rule).  The covered funds limits are imposed through a conformance period that is expected to end in July 2017.  Management does not currently anticipate that the Volcker Rule will have a material effect on the operations of either the Bank or Holding Company.

In January 2014, the Federal Agencies, including the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (“CFTC”) approved a final rule permitting banking entities to indefinitely retain interests in certain collateralized debt obligations backed primarily by trust preferred securities (“TRUP CDOs”) that otherwise could not be retained under the covered fund investment prohibitions of the Volcker Rule.  Under the final rule, the agencies permit the retention of an interest in, or sponsorship of, covered funds by banking entities if certain qualifications are satisfied. As of December 31, 2016, all TRUP CDO investments owned by the Bank satisfied the retention requirements.

Basel III Capital Rules

On January 1, 2015, the Bank and the Holding Company became subject to a new comprehensive capital framework for U.S. banking organizations that was issued by the FDIC and FRB in July 2013 (the “Basel III Capital Rules”), subject to phase-in periods for certain components and other provisions.

The Basel III Capital Rules provide for the following minimum capital to risk-weighted assets ratios as of January 1, 2015: a) 4.5% based upon common equity tier 1 capital (“CET1”); b) 6.0% based upon tier 1 capital; and c) 8.0% based upon total regulatory capital.  A minimum leverage ratio (tier 1 capital as a percentage of average consolidated assets) of 4.0% is also required under the Basel III Capital Rules.  When fully phased in, the Basel III Capital Rules will additionally require institutions to retain a capital conservation buffer, composed entirely of CET1, of 2.5% above these required minimum capital ratio levels.  Banking organizations that fail to maintain the minimum 2.5% capital conservation buffer could face restrictions on capital distributions or discretionary bonus payments to executive officers.  Restrictions would begin phasing in where the banking organization’s capital conservation buffer was below 2.5% at the beginning of a quarter, and distributions and discretionary bonus payments would be completely prohibited if no capital conservation buffer exists.  When the capital conservation buffer is fully phased in on January 1, 2019, the Holding Company and the Bank will effectively have the following minimum capital to risk-weighted assets ratios: a) 7.0% based upon CET1; b) 8.5% based upon tier 1 capital; and c) 10.5% based upon total regulatory capital.

The Basel III Capital Rules provide for a number of deductions from, and adjustments to, CET1.  These include, for example, the requirement that MSR, deferred tax assets arising from temporary differences that could not be realized through net operating loss carrybacks and significant investments in non-consolidated financial entities be deducted from CET1 to the extent that any one such category exceeds 10% of CET1 or all such items, in the aggregate, exceed 15% of CET1.
 
Implementation of the deductions from, and other adjustments to, CET1 began on January 1, 2015 and are being phased-in over a 4-year period (beginning at 40% on January 1, 2015 and an additional 20% per year thereafter). The implementation of the capital conservation buffer began on January 1, 2016 at 0.625% and will increase by 0.625% each subsequent January 1, until it reaches 2.5% on January 1, 2019.  The Basel III Capital Rules also revised the definitions and components of regulatory capital, and addressed other issues affecting the numerator in banking institutions’ regulatory capital ratios.  The Basel III Capital Rules also address asset risk weights and other matters affecting the denominator in banking institutions’ regulatory capital ratios.

With respect to the Bank, the Basel III Capital Rules revise the “prompt corrective action” (“PCA”) regulations adopted pursuant to the Federal Deposit Insurance Act (“FDIA”) by: (i) introducing a CET1 ratio requirement at each PCA category (other than critically undercapitalized), with the required CET1 ratio being 6.5% for well-capitalized status; (ii) increasing the minimum Tier 1 capital ratio requirement for each category, with the minimum tier 1 capital ratio for well-capitalized status being 8.0% (as compared to the current 6.0%); and (iii) eliminating the provision that a bank with a composite supervisory rating of 1 may have a 3.0% leverage ratio and still be adequately capitalized. The Basel III Capital Rules do not change the total risk-based capital requirement for any PCA category.

The Basel III Capital Rules increased the required capital levels of the Bank and subjected the Holding Company to consolidated capital rules. The Bank and Company made the one-time, permanent election to continue to exclude the effects of accumulated other comprehensive income or loss items included in stockholders’ equity for the purposes of determining the regulatory capital ratios.  See Note 18 to the consolidated financial statements for a discussion of regulatory matters.

FDIC Guidance on Managing Market Risk

In October 2013, the FDIC published guidance entitled “Managing Sensitivity to Market Risk in a Challenging Interest Rate Environment”.  This guidance notes the FDIC’s ongoing supervisory concern that certain institutions may be insufficiently prepared or positioned for sustained increases in, or volatility of, interest rates.  The guidance emphasizes a series of best practices to ensure that state nonmember institutions, such as the Bank, have adopted a comprehensive asset-liability and interest rate risk management process.  These practices include:  (i) effective board governance and oversight; (ii) a sound policy framework and prudent exposure limits; (iii) well-developed risk measurement tools for effective measurement and monitoring of interest rate risk and; (iv) effective risk mitigation strategies.  The Bank has implemented the best practices as of December 31, 2016.

FDIC Real Estate Lending Standards

FDIC regulations prescribe standards for extensions of credit that (i) are secured by liens on or interests in real estate, or (ii) are made for the purpose of financing construction or improvements on real estate.  FDIC regulations require nonmember banks to establish and maintain written real estate lending policies that are consistent with safe and sound banking practices and appropriate to the size of the institution and the nature and scope of its real estate lending activities.  The policies must also be consistent with accompanying interagency guidelines, which include loan-to-value limitations for different types of real estate loans.  Under certain circumstances, institutions are also permitted to make a limited amount of loans that do not conform to the loan-to-value limitations.  In addition, the federal banking agencies consider as part of their ongoing supervisory monitoring processes whether an institution is exposed to significant commercial real estate concentration risk.  Institutions that (i) have experienced rapid growth in their commercial real estate lending, (ii) have notable exposure to a specific type of commercial real estate or (iii) are approaching or have exceeded the following concentration thresholds may become subject to additional regulatory review: (a) total reported loans for construction, land development, and other land represent 100 percent or more of the institution’s total capital; or (b) total commercial real estate loans, excluding owner occupied properties, represent 300 percent or more of the institution’s total capital, and the outstanding balance of the institution’s commercial real estate loan portfolio has increased by 50 percent or more during the prior 36 months.
 
NYSDFS Guidelines for Bank Lending to Multifamily Properties Under the Community Reinvestment Act

Under the NYSDFS’ September 2013 guidelines addressing responsible multifamily lending, the NYSDFS’ Community Reinvestment Act (“CRA”) examinations review whether a bank has satisfied its responsibility to ensure that any loan contributes to, and does not undermine, the availability of affordable housing or neighborhood conditions.  Under the guidelines, a loan on a multifamily property would not be found to have a community development purpose, and would not be CRA eligible if it:  (i) significantly reduces or has the potential to reduce affordable housing; (ii) facilitates substandard living conditions; (iii) is in technical default; or (iv) has been underwritten in an unsound manner.

The guidelines also recommend that banks consider adopting a series of best practices in an effort to help avoid reductions in qualitative or quantitative CRA credit on multifamily loans.

Implementation of these guidelines has not materially impacted the business and operations of the Bank.

Limitations on Individual Loans and Aggregate Loans to One Borrower

As an NYS-chartered savings bank originating loans secured by real estate having a market value at least equal to the loan amount at the time of origination, the Bank is generally not constrained by NYSDFS regulations limiting individual loan or borrower exposures.

QTL Test

In order for the Holding Company to be regulated by the FRB as a savings and loan holding company rather than a bank holding company, the Bank must remain a QTL. To satisfy this requirement, the Bank must maintain at least 65% of its “portfolio assets” in certain “qualified thrift investments” during at least nine of the most recent twelve months. “Portfolio assets” mean, in general, the Bank’s total assets less the sum of: (i) specified liquid assets up to 20% of total assets, (ii) certain intangibles, including goodwill, credit card relationships and purchased MSR, and (iii) the value of property used to conduct the Bank’s business. “Qualified thrift investments” include various types of loans made for residential and housing purposes; investments related to such purposes, including certain mortgage-backed and related securities; and small business, education, and credit card loans.  At December 31, 2016, the Bank maintained 78.2% of its portfolio assets in qualified thrift investments. The Bank also satisfied the QTL test in each month during 2016, and, therefore, was a QTL.  If the Bank fails to remain a QTL, the Holding Company must register with the FRB as a bank holding company. While the Holding Company intends to remain a savings and loan holding company, regulation as a bank holding company rather than a savings and loan holding company would not be expected to have a material impact upon its financial condition or results of operations.

A savings association that fails the QTL test will generally be prohibited from (i) engaging in any new activity not permissible for a national bank, (ii) paying dividends, unless the payment would be permissible for a national bank, is necessary to meet obligations of a company that controls the savings bank, and is specifically approved by the FDIC and the FRB, and (iii) establishing any new branch office in a location not permissible for a national bank in the association’s home state.  A savings association that fails to satisfy the QTL test may be subject to FDIC enforcement action.  In addition, within one year of the date a savings association ceases to satisfy the QTL test, any company controlling the association must register under, and become subject to the requirements of, the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended (“BHCA”).  A savings association that has failed the QTL test may requalify under the QTL test and be relieved of the limitations; however, it may do so only once.  If the savings association does not requalify under the QTL test within three years after failing the QTL test, it will be required to terminate any activity, and dispose of any investment, not permissible for a national bank.  These provisions remain in effect under the Reform Act.
 
Advisory on Interest Rate Risk Management

In January 2010, the Agencies released an Advisory on Interest Rate Risk Management (the “IRR Advisory”) to remind institutions of the supervisory expectations regarding sound practices for managing IRR.  While some degree of IRR is inherent in the business of banking, the Agencies expect institutions to have sound risk management practices in place to measure, monitor and control IRR exposures, and IRR management should be an integral component of an institution’s risk management infrastructure.  The Agencies expect all institutions to manage their IRR exposures using processes and systems commensurate with their earnings and capital levels, complexity, business model, risk profile and scope of operations.  The IRR Advisory further reiterates the importance of effective corporate governance, policies and procedures, risk measuring and monitoring systems, stress testing, and internal controls related to the IRR exposures of institutions.

The IRR Advisory encourages institutions to use a variety of techniques to measure IRR exposure, which include simple maturity gap analysis, income measurement and valuation measurement for assessing the impact of changes in market rates as well as simulation modeling to measure IRR exposure.  Institutions are encouraged to use the full complement of analytical capabilities of their IRR simulation models.  The IRR Advisory also reminds institutions that stress testing, which includes both scenario and sensitivity analysis, is an integral component of IRR management.  The IRR Advisory indicates that institutions should regularly assess IRR exposures beyond typical industry conventions, including changes in rates of greater magnitude ( e.g. , up and down 300 and 400 basis points as compared to the generally used up and down 200 basis points) across different tenors to reflect changing slopes and twists of the yield curve.

The IRR Advisory emphasizes that effective IRR management not only involves the identification and measurement of IRR, but also provides for appropriate actions to control the risk.  The adequacy and effectiveness of an institution’s IRR management process and the level of its IRR exposure are critical factors in the Agencies’ evaluation of an institution’s sensitivity to changes in interest rates and capital adequacy.

Limitation on Capital Distributions

The NYBL and the New York banking regulations, as well as   FDIC and FRB regulations impose limitations upon capital distributions by state-chartered savings banks, such as cash dividends, payments to purchase or otherwise acquire its shares, payments to shareholders of another institution in a cash-out merger, and other distributions charged against capital.

Under the NYBL and the New York banking regulations, New York State-chartered stock savings banks may declare and pay dividends out of net profits, unless there is an impairment of capital, however, approval of the New York State Superintendent of Financial Services (“Superintendent”) is required if the total of all dividends declared by the bank in a calendar year would exceed the total of its net profits for that year combined with its retained net profits for the preceding two years less prior dividends paid.

As the subsidiary of a savings and loan holding company, the Bank is required to file a notice with the FRB at least 30 days prior to each capital distribution.  The FRB can prohibit a proposed capital distribution if it determines that the bank would be “undercapitalized”, as defined in the FDIA, following the distribution or that a proposed distribution would constitute an unsafe or unsound practice. Further, under FDIC PCA regulations, the Bank would be prohibited from making a capital distribution if, after the distribution, the Bank would fail to satisfy its minimum capital requirements, as described above (See “PCA”).

Liquidity

Pursuant to FDIC regulations , the Bank is required to maintain sufficient liquidity to ensure its safe and sound operation.
 
Assessments

New York State-chartered savings banks are required by the NYBL to pay annual assessments to the NYSDFS in connection with its regulation and supervision (including examination) of the Bank.  This annual assessment is based primarily on the asset size of the Bank, among other factors determined by the NYSDFS.  The Bank is not required to pay additional assessments to the FDIC for its regulation and supervision (including examination) of the Bank as a State Nonmember Bank, however, the Bank is required to pay assessments to the FDIC as an insured depository institution.  (See “Insurance of Deposit Accounts”).

Branching

Subject to certain limitations, NYS and federal law permit NYS-chartered savings banks to establish branches in any state of the United States.  In general, federal law allows the FDIC, and the NYBL allows the Superintendent, to approve an application by a state banking institution to acquire interstate branches by merger.  The NYBL authorizes New York State-chartered savings banks to open and occupy de novo branches outside the State of New York. Pursuant to the Reform Act, the FDIC is authorized to approve the establishment by a state bank of a de novo interstate branch if the intended host state allows de novo branching within that state by banks chartered by that state.

Community Reinvestment

Under the CRA, as implemented by FDIC regulations, an insured depository institution possesses a continuing and affirmative obligation, consistent with its safe and sound operation, to help satisfy the credit needs of its entire community, including low and moderate income neighborhoods. The CRA does not establish specific lending requirements or programs for financial institutions nor does it limit an institution’s discretion to develop the types of products and services it believes are most appropriate to its particular community. The CRA requires the FDIC, in connection with its examination of a State Nonmember Bank, to assess the bank’s record of satisfying the credit needs of its community and consider such record in its evaluation of certain applications by the bank.  The CRA also requires all institutions to make public disclosure of their CRA ratings. The Bank received a “Satisfactory” CRA rating in its most recent examination.   Regulations additionally require that the Bank publicly disclose certain agreements that are in fulfillment of the CRA.  The Bank has no such agreements.

The Bank is also subject to provisions of the NYBL that impose continuing and affirmative obligations upon a New York State-chartered savings bank to serve the credit needs of its local community (the “NYCRA”).  Such obligations are substantially similar to those imposed by the CRA.  The NYCRA requires the NYSDFS to make a periodic written assessment of an institution’s compliance with the NYCRA, utilizing a four-tiered rating system, and to make such assessment available to the public.  The NYCRA also requires the Superintendent to consider the NYCRA rating when reviewing an application to engage in certain transactions, including mergers, asset purchases and the establishment of branch offices or ATMs, and provides that such assessment may serve as a basis for the denial of any such application.  The Bank became subject to the NYCRA at the Charter Conversion, and has not yet received a NYCRA rating.

Transactions with Related Parties

The Bank’s authority to engage in transactions with its “affiliates” is limited by FDIC regulations, Sections 23A and 23B of the Federal Reserve Act (“FRA”), and Regulation W issued by the FRB.  FDIC regulations regarding transactions with affiliates generally conform to Regulation W.  These provisions, among other matters, prohibit, limit or place restrictions upon a depository institution extending credit to, purchasing assets from, or entering into certain transactions (including securities lending, repurchase agreements and derivatives activities) with, its affiliates, which, for the Bank, would include the Holding Company and any other subsidiary of the Holding Company.

As a “savings association” under Section 10(l) of the HOLA, the Bank is additionally subject to the rules governing transactions with affiliates for savings associations under HOLA Section 11.  These rules prohibit, subject to certain exemptions, a savings association from: (i) advancing a loan to an affiliate engaged in non-bank holding company activities; and (ii) purchasing or investing in securities issued by an affiliate that is not a subsidiary.
 
The Bank’s authority to extend credit to its directors, executive officers, and stockholders owning 10% or more of the outstanding Common Stock, as well as to entities controlled by such persons, is additionally governed by the requirements of Sections 22(g) and 22(h) of the FRA and Regulation O of the FRB enacted thereunder. Among other matters, these provisions require that extensions of credit to insiders: (i) be made on terms substantially the same as, and follow credit underwriting procedures not less stringent than, those prevailing for comparable transactions with unaffiliated persons and that do not involve more than the normal risk of repayment or present other unfavorable features; and (ii) not exceed certain amount limitations individually and in the aggregate, which limits are based, in part, on the amount of the bank’s capital. Regulation O additionally requires that extensions of credit in excess of certain limits be approved in advance by the bank’s board of directors.

New York banking regulations impose certain limits and requirements on various transactions with “insiders,” as defined in the New York banking regulations to include certain executive officers, directors and principal stockholders.

The Holding Company and Bank both presently prohibit loans to directors and executive management.

Enforcement

Under the NYBL, the Superintendent possesses enforcement power over New York State-chartered savings banks.  The NYBL gives the Superintendent authority to order a New York State-chartered savings bank to appear and explain an apparent violation of law, to discontinue unauthorized or unsafe practices and to maintain prescribed books and accounts.  Upon a finding by the Superintendent that a director, trustee or officer of a savings bank has violated any law, or has continued unauthorized or unsafe practices in conducting its business after having been notified by the Superintendent to discontinue such practices, such director, trustee, or officer may be removed from office after notice and an opportunity to be heard.  The Superintendent also has authority to appoint a conservator or receiver, such as the FDIC, for a savings bank under certain circumstances.

Under the FDIA, the FDIC possesses enforcement authority for FDIC insured depository institutions and has the authority to bring enforcement action, including civil monetary penalties, against all “institution-affiliated parties,” including any controlling stockholder or any shareholder, attorney, appraiser or accountant who knowingly or recklessly participates in any violation of applicable law or regulation, breach of fiduciary duty or certain other wrongful actions that cause, or are likely to cause, more than minimal loss to or other significant adverse effect on an insured depository institution. Under HOLA and the FDIA, the FRB possesses similar authority to bring enforcement actions and impose civil monetary penalties against savings and loan holding companies for violations of applicable law or regulation.  In addition, regulators possess substantial discretion to take enforcement action against an institution that fails to comply with the law, particularly with respect to capital requirements. Possible enforcement actions range from informal enforcement actions, such as a memorandum of understanding, to formal enforcement actions, such as a written agreement, cease and desist order or civil money penalty, the imposition of a capital plan and capital directive to receivership, conservatorship, or the termination of deposit insurance.

Standards for Safety and Soundness

Pursuant to FDICIA, as amended by the Riegle Community Development and Regulatory Improvement Act of 1994, the FDIC, together with the other federal bank regulatory agencies, has adopted guidelines prescribing safety and soundness standards relating to internal controls and information systems, internal audit systems, loan documentation, credit underwriting, interest rate risk exposure, asset growth, asset quality, earnings and compensation, fees and benefits. In general, the guidelines require, among other features, appropriate systems and practices to identify and manage the risks and exposures specified in the guidelines. The guidelines prohibit excessive compensation as an unsafe and unsound practice and describe compensation as excessive when the amounts paid are unreasonable or disproportionate to the services performed by an executive officer, employee, director or principal shareholder.  In addition, the FDIC has adopted regulations pursuant to FDICIA that authorize, but do not require, the FDIC to order an institution that has been given notice by the FDIC that it is not satisfying any of such safety and soundness standards to submit a compliance plan. If, after being so ordered, an institution fails to submit an acceptable compliance plan or fails in any material respect to implement an accepted compliance plan, the FDIC must issue an order directing action to correct the deficiency and may issue an order directing other actions of the types to which an undercapitalized bank is subject under the PCA provisions of FDICIA (See "Part I - Item 1 – Business - Regulation - Regulation of New York State Chartered Savings Banks –PCA").  If an institution fails to comply with such an order, the FDIC may seek enforcement in judicial proceedings and the imposition of civil money penalties.
 
Insurance of Deposit Accounts

The standard maximum amount of FDIC deposit insurance is $250,000 per depositor.  Insured depository institutions are required to pay quarterly deposit insurance assessments to the DIF.  Assessments are based on average total assets minus average tangible equity.  The assessment rate is determined through a risk-based system.  For depository institutions with less than $10 billion in assets, such as the Bank, the FDIC assigns an institution to one of four risk categories based on its safety and soundness supervisory ratings (its "CAMELS” ratings) and its capital levels.  The initial base assessment rate depends on the institution’s risk category, as well as, if it is in the highest category (indicating the lowest risk), certain financial measures.  The initial base assessment rate currently ranges from 3 to 30 basis points on an annualized basis.  After the effect of potential base-rate adjustments, the total base assessment rate could range from 1.5 to 40 basis points on an annualized basis.

As a result of the recent failures of a number of banks and thrifts, there has been a significant increase in the loss provisions of the DIF.  This resulted in a decline in the DIF reserve ratio during 2008 below the then minimum designated reserve ratio of 1.15%.  In October 2010, the FDIC adopted a new DIF restoration plan to ensure that the fund reserve ratio reaches 1.35% by September 30, 2020, as required by the Reform Act.  In March 2016, the FDIC adopted a final rule increasing the reserve ratio for the DIF to 1.35% of total insured deposits.  The rule imposes a surcharge on the assessments of depository institutions with $10 billion or more in assets beginning the third quarter of 2016 and continuing through the earlier of the quarter that the reserve ratio first reaches or exceeds 1.35% and December 31, 2018.  As a depository institution with less than $10 billion in assets, this rule will not apply to the Bank. The FDIC has established a long-term target for the reserve ratio of 2.0%. At least semi-annually, the FDIC will update its loss and income projections for the fund and, if needed, will increase or decrease assessment rates, following notice-and-comment rulemaking if required.

In addition, the Deposit Insurance Funds Act of 1996 authorized the Financing Corporation (“FICO”) to impose assessments on DIF applicable deposits in order to service the interest on FICO’s bond obligations from deposit insurance fund assessments.  The amount assessed on individual institutions by FICO is in addition to the amount, if any, paid for deposit insurance according to the FDIC’s risk-related assessment rate schedules.  FICO assessment rates may be adjusted quarterly to reflect a change in assessment base.  These payments approximate 10% of the Bank's annual FDIC insurance payments and will continue until the FICO bonds mature in 2017 through 2019.

Acquisitions

Under the federal Bank Merger Act, prior approval of the FDIC is required for the Bank to merge with or purchase the assets or assume the deposits of another insured depository institution. In reviewing applications seeking approval of merger and acquisition transactions, the FDIC will consider, among other factors, the competitive effect and public benefits of the transactions, the capital position of the combined organization, the risks to the stability of the U.S. banking or financial system, the applicant’s performance record under the CRA (see “Community Reinvestment”) and its compliance with fair housing and other consumer protection laws and the effectiveness of the subject organizations in combating money laundering activities.

Privacy and Security Protection

The federal banking agencies have adopted regulations for consumer privacy protection that require financial institutions to adopt procedures to protect customers and their "non-public personal information."  The regulations require the Bank to disclose its privacy policy, including identifying with whom it shares "non-public personal information," to customers at the time of establishing the customer relationship, and annually thereafter if there are changes to its policy.  In addition, the Bank is required to provide its customers the ability to "opt-out" of:  (1) the sharing of their personal information with unaffiliated third parties if the sharing of such information does not satisfy any of the permitted exceptions; and (2) the receipt of marketing solicitations from Bank affiliates.
 
The Bank is additionally subject to regulatory guidelines establishing standards for safeguarding customer information.  The guidelines describe the federal banking agencies' expectations for the creation, implementation and maintenance of an information security program, including administrative, technical and physical safeguards appropriate to the size and complexity of the institution and the nature and scope of its activities.  The standards set forth in the guidelines are intended to ensure the security and confidentiality of customer records and information, and protect against anticipated threats or hazards to the security or integrity of such records and unauthorized access to or use of such records or information that could result in substantial customer harm or inconvenience.

Federal law additionally permits each state to enact legislation that is more protective of consumers' personal information.  Currently, there are a number of privacy bills pending in the New York legislature.  Management of the Company cannot predict the impact, if any, of these bills if enacted.

Cybersecurity more broadly has become a focus of federal and state regulators.  In March 2015, federal regulators issued two statements regarding cybersecurity to reiterate regulatory expectations regarding cyberattacks compromising credentials and business continuity planning to ensure the rapid recovery of an institution’s operations after a cyberattack involving destructive malware.  In October 2016, federal regulators jointly issued an advance notice of proposed rulemaking on enhanced cyber risk management standards that are intended to increase the operational resilience of large and interconnected entities under their supervision. Once established, the enhanced cyber risk management standards would help to reduce the potential impact of a cyber-attack or other cyber-related failure on the financial system.  The advance notice of proposed rulemaking addresses five categories of cyber standards: (1) cyber risk governance; (2) cyber risk management; (3) internal dependency management; (4) external dependency management; and (5) incident response, cyber resilience, and situational awareness.  In December 2016, the NYSDFS re-proposed regulations that would require financial institutions regulated by the NYDFS, including the Bank, to, among other things, (i) establish and maintain a cyber security program designed to ensure the confidentiality, integrity and availability of their information systems; (ii) implement and maintain a written cyber security policy setting forth policies and procedures for the protection of their information systems and nonpublic information; and (iii) designate a Chief Information Security Officer.  The Company will continue to monitor any developments related to these proposed rulemakings as part of its ongoing cyber risk management.  See "Item 1A - Risk Factors" for a further discussion of cybersecurity risks.

Consumer Protection and Compliance Provisions

The Bank is subject to various consumer protection laws and regulations. The Bank may be subject to potential liability for material violations of these laws and regulations, in the form of litigation by governmental and consumer groups, the FDIC and other federal regulatory agencies including the Department of Justice. Moreover, the CFPB has broad rule-making authority for a wide range of consumer protection laws that apply to all depository institutions, as well as the authority to prohibit "unfair, deceptive or abusive" acts and practices.

Insurance Activities

As a New York State chartered savings bank,   the Bank is generally permitted to engage in certain insurance activities: (i) directly in places where the population does not exceed 5,000 persons, or (ii) in places with larger populations through subsidiaries if certain conditions are satisfied.  Federal agency regulations prohibit depository institutions from conditioning the extension of credit to individuals upon either the purchase of an insurance product or annuity or an agreement by the consumer not to purchase an insurance product or annuity from an entity not affiliated with the depository institution.  The regulations additionally require prior disclosure of this prohibition if such products are offered to credit applicants. Compliance with these regulations has not had a material impact upon the Bank's financial condition or results of operations.

Federal Home Loan Bank ("FHLB") System

The Bank is a member of the FHLBNY, which is one of the twelve regional FHLBs composing the FHLB System. Each FHLB provides a central credit facility primarily for its member institutions. Any advances from the FHLBNY must be secured by specified types of collateral, and long-term advances may be obtained only for the purpose of providing funds for residential housing finance.  The Bank, as a member of the FHLBNY, is currently required to acquire and hold shares of FHLBNY Class B stock as a membership requirement and must hold additional stock based on its FHLB borrowing and certain other activities.  The Bank was in compliance with these requirements with an investment in FHLBNY Class B stock of $44.4 million at December 31, 2016.  The FHLBNY can adjust the specific percentages and dollar amount periodically within the ranges established by the FHLBNY capital plan.
 
Federal Reserve System

The Bank is subject to FRA and FRB regulations requiring state-chartered depository institutions to maintain cash reserves against their transaction accounts (primarily NOW and regular checking accounts).  Because required reserves must be maintained in the form of vault cash, a low-interest-bearing account at a Federal Reserve Bank, or a pass-through account as defined by the FRB, the effect of this reserve requirement is to reduce the Bank's interest-earning assets. The balances maintained to satisfy the FRB reserve requirements may be used to satisfy liquidity requirements imposed by the FDIC.

The Federal Reserve Banks pay interest on depository institutions’ required and excess reserve balances.  The interest rate paid on required reserve balances and excess balances is currently 0.75 percent.

Depository institutions are additionally authorized to borrow from the Federal Reserve ''discount window,'' however, FRB regulations require such institutions to hold reserves in the form of vault cash or deposits with Federal Reserve Banks in order to borrow.

Anti-Money Laundering and Customer Identification

Financial institutions are subject to Bank Secrecy Act amendments and specific federal agency guidance in relation to implementing the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001 ("PATRIOT Act").  The PATRIOT Act provides the federal government with powers to address terrorist threats through enhanced domestic security measures, expanded surveillance powers, increased information sharing and broadened anti-money laundering requirements.  By way of amendments to the Bank Secrecy Act, Title III of the PATRIOT Act enacted measures intended to encourage information sharing among bank regulatory and law enforcement agencies. In addition, certain provisions of Title III and the FDIC guidance impose affirmative obligations on a broad range of financial institutions, including banks and thrifts.  Title III imposes the following requirements, among others, with respect to financial institutions: (i) establishment of anti-money laundering programs; (ii) establishment of procedures for obtaining identifying information from customers opening new accounts, including verifying their identity within a reasonable period of time; (iii) establishment of enhanced due diligence policies, procedures and controls designed to detect and report money laundering; and (iv)  prohibition on correspondent accounts for foreign shell banks and compliance with recordkeeping obligations with respect to correspondent accounts of foreign banks. In addition, the NYSDFS issued a final regulation in June 2016 that sets forth, for financial institutions chartered or licensed under the New York Banking Law, the attributes of certain compliance programs such institutions must have to ensure compliance with Bank Secrecy Act/Anti-Money Laundering laws and regulations and sanctions administered by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (“OFAC”).  The regulation requires the board of directors or a senior officer of an institution to make an annual finding as to an institution’s compliance with the requirements of the regulation.

Finally, bank regulators are directed to consider an organization’s effectiveness in preventing money laundering when reviewing and acting on regulatory applications.

OFAC Regulation

OFAC, administers and enforces economic and trade sanctions against targeted foreign countries and regimes, under authority of various laws, including designated foreign countries, nationals, and others.  Failure to comply with these sanctions could have serious legal and reputational consequences.
 
Regulation of the Holding Company

The Bank has made an election under Section 10(l) of the HOLA to be treated as a “savings association” for purposes of regulation of the Holding Company. As a result, the Holding Company continues, after the Charter Conversion, to be registered with the FRB as a non-diversified unitary savings and loan holding company within the meaning of the HOLA.  The Holding Company is currently subject to FRB regulations, examination, enforcement and supervision, as well as reporting requirements applicable to savings and loan holding companies. Among other things, this authority permits the FRB to restrict or prohibit activities that are determined to be a serious risk to the safety, soundness or stability of a subsidiary depository institution.  In addition, the FRB has enforcement authority over the Holding Company’s non-depository institution subsidiaries.  If the Bank does not continue to satisfy the QTL test, the Holding Company must change its status with the FRB as a savings and loan holding company and register as a bank holding company under the BHCA.  (See "Regulation of New York State-Chartered Savings Banks–QTL Test").

HOLA prohibits a savings and loan holding company, directly or indirectly, or through one or more subsidiaries, from acquiring another savings association or holding company thereof, without prior written approval of the FRB; acquiring or retaining, with certain exceptions, more than 5% of a non-subsidiary savings association, non-subsidiary holding company, or non-subsidiary company engaged in activities other than those permitted by HOLA; or acquiring or retaining control of a depository institution that is not insured by the FDIC. In evaluating an application by a holding company to acquire a savings association, the FRB must consider the financial and managerial resources and future prospects of the company and savings association involved, the effect of the acquisition on the risk to the insurance funds, the convenience and needs of the community, and competitive factors.

The Gramm-Leach Bliley Act of 1999 (“Gramm-Leach”) additionally restricts the powers of certain unitary savings and loan holding companies.  A unitary savings and loan holding company that is "grandfathered," i.e. , became a unitary savings and loan holding company pursuant to an application filed with the Office of Thrift Supervision (the regulator of savings and loan holding companies prior to the FRB) prior to May 4, 1999, such as the Holding Company, retains the authority it possessed under the law in existence as of May 4, 1999.  All other savings and loan holding companies are limited to financially related activities permissible for bank holding companies, as defined under Gramm-Leach.  Gramm-Leach also prohibits non-financial companies from acquiring grandfathered savings and loan holding companies.

Upon any non-supervisory acquisition by the Holding Company of another savings association or a savings bank that satisfies the QTL test and is deemed to be a savings association and that will be held as a separate subsidiary, the Holding Company will become a multiple savings and loan holding company and will be subject to limitations on the types of business activities in which it may engage.  HOLA limits the activities of a multiple savings and loan holding company and its non-insured subsidiaries primarily to activities permissible under Section 4(c) of the BHCA, subject to prior approval of the FRB, or the activities permissible for financial holding companies under Section 4(k) of the BHCA, if the company meets the requirements to be treated as a financial holding company, and to other activities authorized by federal agency regulations.

Federal agency regulations prohibit regulatory approval of any acquisition that would result in a multiple savings and loan holding company controlling savings associations in more than one state, subject to two exceptions: an acquisition of a savings association in another state (i) in a supervisory transaction, or (ii) pursuant to authority under the laws of the state of the association to be acquired that specifically permit such acquisitions.  The conditions imposed upon interstate acquisitions by those states that have enacted authorizing legislation vary.

The Bank must file a notice with the FRB prior to the payment of any dividends or other capital distributions to the Holding Company (See "Regulation-Regulation of New York State Chartered Savings Banks - Limitation on Capital Distributions'').  The FRB has the authority to deny such payment request.
 
Restrictions on the Acquisition of the Holding Company

Under the Federal Change in Bank Control Act ("CIBCA") and implementing regulations, a notice must be submitted to the FRB if any person (including a company), or group acting in concert, seeks to acquire 10% or more of the shares of outstanding Common Stock, unless the FRB has found that the acquisition will not result in a change in control of the Holding Company. Under CIBCA and implementing regulations, the FRB generally has 60 days within which to act on such notices, taking into consideration certain factors, including the financial and managerial resources of the acquirer; the convenience and needs of the communities served by the Holding Company, the Bank; and the anti-trust effects of the acquisition. Under HOLA, any company would be required to obtain approval from the FRB before it may obtain "control" of the Holding Company within the meaning of HOLA. Control is generally defined to mean the ownership or power to vote 25% or more of any class of voting securities of the Holding Company or the ability to control in any manner the election of a majority of the Holding Company’s directors, although a person or entity may also be determined to “control” the Holding Company without satisfying these requirements if it is determined that he, she or it directly or indirectly exercises a controlling influence over the management or policies of the Holding Company. In addition, an existing bank holding company or savings and loan holding company would, under federal banking laws and regulations, generally be required to obtain FRB approval before acquiring more than 5% of the Holding Company’s voting stock.

In addition to the applicable federal laws and regulations, New York State Banking Law generally requires prior approval of the New York State Superintendent of Financial Services before any action is taken that causes any company to acquire direct or indirect control of a banking institution organized in New York.

Federal Securities Laws

The Common Stock is registered with the SEC under Section 12(g) of the Exchange Act.  It is subject to the periodic reporting, proxy solicitation, insider trading restrictions and other requirements under the Exchange Act.

Delaware Corporation Law

The Holding Company is incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware, and, therefore, is subject to regulation by the State of Delaware, and the rights of its shareholders are governed by the Delaware General Corporation Law.

Item 1A.  Risk Factors

The Company's business may be adversely affected by conditions in the financial markets and economic conditions generally.

The Company's financial performance generally, and in particular the ability of borrowers to pay interest on and repay principal of outstanding loans and the value of collateral securing those loans, is highly dependent upon the business environment in the markets where the Company operates, in the New York metropolitan area and in the United States as a whole.  Conditions in the marketplace for the Bank's property collateral types (mainly multifamily and commercial real estate) remained stronger than most other parts of the country throughout the years of the financial crisis, and in fact have recently rebounded to healthy pre-crisis levels.  Nevertheless, given the precarious nature of financial and economic conditions both nationally and globally, this status is always subject to change, which could adversely affect the credit quality of the Bank's loans, results of operations and financial condition.

The Bank’s commercial real estate lending may subject it to greater risk of an adverse impact on operations from a decline in the economy.

The credit quality of the Bank's portfolio can have a significant impact on the Company's earnings, results of operations and financial condition.  As part of the Company’s strategic plan, it originates loans secured by commercial real estate that are generally viewed as exposing lenders to a greater risk of loss than both one- to four-family and multifamily residential mortgage loans. Because payments on loans secured by commercial real estate are often dependent upon successful operation or management of the collateral properties, as well as the success of the business and retail tenants occupying the properties, repayment of such loans are generally more vulnerable to weak economic conditions. Further, the collateral securing such loans may depreciate over time, be difficult to appraise, or fluctuate in value based upon the rentability, among other commercial factors.
 
The performance of Bank's multifamily and mixed-use loans could be adversely impacted by regulation or a weakened economy.

Multifamily and mixed use loans generally involve a greater risk than one- to four- family residential mortgage loans because government regulations such as rent control and rent stabilization laws, which are outside the control of the borrower or the Bank, could impair the value of the security for the loan or the future cash flow of such properties. As a result, rental income might not rise sufficiently over time to satisfy increases in the loan rate at repricing or increases in overhead expenses ( e.g. , utilities, taxes, etc.). Impaired loans are thus difficult to identify before they become problematic. In addition, if the cash flow from a collateral property is reduced ( e.g. , if leases are not obtained or renewed), the borrower’s ability to repay the loan and the value of the security for the loan may be impaired.

Extensions of credit on multifamily, mixed-use or commercial real estate loans may result from reliance upon inaccurate or misleading information received from the borrower.

In deciding whether to extend credit on multifamily, mixed-use or commercial real estate loans, the Bank may rely on information furnished by or on behalf of a customer and counterparties, including financial statements, credit reports and other financial information. In the event such information is inaccurate or misleading, reliance on it could have a material adverse impact on the Company's business and, in turn, its financial condition and results of operations.

Geographic and borrower concentrations could adversely impact financial performance.

The Company’s financial performance generally, and in particular the ability of borrowers to pay interest on and repay principal of outstanding loans, as well as the value of collateral securing those loans, is highly dependent upon business and economic conditions in the United States, particularly in the local New York metropolitan area where the Company conducts substantially all of its business. Conditions in these marketplaces have begun to rebound in recent months after several years of deterioration. Should such conditions fail to continue to improve, they may adversely affect the credit quality of the Bank’s loans, its results of operations and its financial condition.

Conditions in the real estate markets in which the collateral for the Bank’s mortgage loans are located strongly influence the level of the Bank’s non-performing loans and the value of its collateral. Real estate values are affected by, among other items, fluctuations in general or local economic conditions, supply and demand, changes in governmental rules or policies, the availability of loans to potential purchasers and acts of nature. Declines in real estate markets have in the past, and may in the future, negatively impact the Company’s results of operations, cash flows, business, financial condition and prospects.  In addition, at December 31, 2016 the Bank had three borrowers for which its total lending exposure equaled or exceeded 10% of its Tier 1 risk-based capital (its lowest capital measure).  Default by these borrowers could adversely impact the Bank's financial condition and results of operations.

If the Bank’s ability to grow its portfolio of multifamily and commercial real estate loans were limited due to regulatory concerns about its concentrated position in such assets, its ability to generate interest income could be adversely affected, as would its financial condition and results of operations, perhaps materially .

The Bank’s portfolios of multifamily and commercial real estate loans represent the largest portion of its asset mix (approximately 98.6% of all loans as of December 31, 2016). The Bank’s position in these markets has been instrumental to its production of solid earnings and its consistent record of exceptional asset quality.  In view of the heightened regulatory focus on commercial real estate concentration, it is possible that the regulators may seek to restrict the Bank’s growth in those asset classes.  Were the Bank to be so limited, its net interest income and its earnings capacity would likely be adversely impacted.

Growth of the C&I Portfolio could result in higher provisions for loan losses, thus reducing earnings and stockholders’ equity

The Bank’s strategic plan to grow the C&I loan portfolio could result in higher provisions for loan losses as the portfolio is seasoned over time. The addition of new loan products will require more qualitative analysis in determining the appropriate level of loan loss provisions.
 
The Bank’s allowance for loan losses may be insufficient.

The Bank’s allowance for loan losses is maintained at a level considered adequate by management to absorb probable incurred losses inherent in its loan portfolio. The amount of inherent loan losses which could be ultimately realized is susceptible to changes in economic, operating and other conditions, including changes in interest rates, that could be beyond the Bank’s control. Such losses could exceed current estimates. Although management believes that the Bank’s allowance for loan losses is adequate, there can be no assurance that the allowance will be sufficient to satisfy actual loan losses should such losses be realized. Any increases in the allowance for loan losses will result in a decrease in net income and capital, and may have a material adverse effect on the Bank’s financial condition and results of operations.

Increases in interest rates may reduce the Company’s profitability.

The Bank’s primary source of income is its net interest income, which is the difference between the interest income earned on its interest earning assets and the interest expense incurred on its interest bearing liabilities. The Bank's one-year interest rate sensitivity gap is the difference between interest rate sensitive assets maturing or repricing within one year and its interest rate sensitive liabilities maturing or repricing within one year, expressed as both a total amount and as a percentage of total assets.  At December 31, 2016, the Bank's one year interest rate gap was negative 22%, indicating that the overall level of its interest rate sensitive liabilities maturing or repricing within one year exceeded that of its interest rate sensitive assets maturing or repricing within one year.  In a rising interest rate environment, an institution with a negative gap would generally be expected, absent the effects of other factors, to experience a greater increase in its cost of liabilities relative to its yield on assets, and thus a decline in net interest income from its existing investments and funding sources.

Based upon historical experience, if interest rates were to rise, the Bank would expect the demand for multifamily loans to decline. Decreased loan origination volume would likely negatively impact the Bank's interest income. In addition, if interest rates were to rise rapidly and result in an economic decline, the Bank would expect its level of non-performing loans to increase. Such an increase in non-performing loans may result in an increase to the provision/allowance for loan losses and possible increased charge-offs, which would negatively impact the Company's net income.

Further, the actual amount of time before mortgage loans and MBS are repaid can be significantly impacted by changes in mortgage redemption rates and market interest rates. Mortgage prepayment, satisfaction and refinancing rates will vary due to several factors, including the regional economy in the area where the underlying mortgages were originated, seasonal factors, and other demographic variables. However, the most significant factors affecting prepayment, satisfaction and refinancing rates are prevailing interest rates, related mortgage refinancing opportunities and competition.  The level of mortgage and MBS prepayment, satisfaction and refinancing activity impacts the Company's earnings due to its effect on fee income earned on prepayment and refinancing activities, along with liquidity levels the Company will experience to fund new investments or ongoing operations.

As a New York State chartered savings bank, the Bank is required to monitor changes in its Economic Value of Equity ("EVE"), which is the difference between the present value of the expected future cash flows of the Bank’s assets and liabilities plus the value of any off-balance sheet items, such as firm commitments to originate loans, or derivatives, if applicable.  To monitor its overall sensitivity to changes in interest rates, the Bank also simulates the effect of instantaneous changes in interest rates of up to 400 basis points on its assets, liabilities and net interest income.  Interest rates do and will continue to fluctuate, and the Bank cannot predict future FOMC actions or other factors that will cause interest rates to vary.
 
The Company operates in a highly regulated industry and is subject to uncertain risks related to changes in laws, government regulation and monetary policy.

The Holding Company and the Bank are subject to extensive supervision, regulation and examination by the NYSDFS (the Bank's primary regulator), the FRB (the Holding Company's primary regulator) and the FDIC, as its deposit insurer. Such regulation limits the manner in which the Holding Company and Bank conduct business, undertake new investments and activities and obtain financing. This regulation is designed primarily for the protection of the deposit insurance funds and the Bank’s depositors, and not to benefit shareholders or creditors. The regulatory structure also provides the regulatory authorities extensive discretion in connection with their supervisory and enforcement activities and examination policies, including policies with respect to capital levels, the classification of assets and the establishment of adequate loan loss reserves for regulatory purposes.  Failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations could subject the Holding Company and Bank to regulatory enforcement action that could result in the assessment of significant civil money penalties against the Holding Company and Bank.  For further information regarding the laws and regulations that affect the Holding Company and the Bank, see "Item 1. Business - Regulation - Regulation of New York State Chartered Savings Banks," and "Item 1. Business - Regulation - Regulation of Holding Company."

The fiscal and monetary policies of the federal government and its agencies could have a material adverse effect on the Company's results of operations. The FRB regulates the supply of money and credit in the United States.  Its policies determine in significant part the cost of funds for lending and investing and the return earned on those loans and investments, both of which affect the Company's net interest margin.  Government action can materially decrease the value of the Company's financial assets, such as debt securities, mortgages and MSR.  Governmental policies can also adversely affect borrowers, potentially increasing the risk that they may fail to repay their loans.  Changes in FRB or governmental policies are beyond the Company's control and difficult to predict; consequently, the impact of these changes on the Company's activities and results of operations is difficult to predict.
 
The federal government may make changes in tax legislation that would lower the federal corporate income tax rate from the current level of 35%.  These changes could result in an impairment of the Company’s deferred tax assets as future tax benefit deferrals would be measured at a lower tax rate. Any impairment identified would be recorded through the Company’s earnings and recognized in the quarter in which the lower rate is enacted. The Company’s net deferred tax asset as of December 31, 2016 was $22.3 million. See Note 12 to the consolidated financial statements for a discussion of deferred tax assets.
 
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 the control of the Holding Company or the Bank. In addition, recent political developments, including the change in administration in the United States, have added uncertainty to the implementation, scope and timing of regulatory reforms, including those relating to implementation of the Reform Act.  Significant new laws or changes in, or repeals of, existing laws may cause the Company's results of operations to differ materially. Further, federal monetary policy significantly affects credit conditions for the Company, primarily through open market operations in United States government securities, the discount rate for bank borrowings and reserve requirements for liquid assets. A material change in any of these conditions would have a material impact on the Bank, and therefore, on the Company’s results of operations.

Competition from other financial institutions in originating loans and attracting deposits may adversely affect profitability.

The Bank operates in a highly competitive industry that could become even more competitive as a result of legislative, regulatory and technological changes, and continued consolidation.

The Bank's retail banking and a significant portion of its lending business are concentrated in the NYC metropolitan area. The NYC banking environment is extremely competitive. The Bank’s competition for loans exists principally from savings banks, commercial banks, mortgage banks and insurance companies.  The Bank has faced sustained competition for the origination of multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans. Management anticipates that the current level of competition for multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans will continue for the foreseeable future, and this competition may inhibit the Bank’s ability to maintain its current level and pricing of such loans.

Clients could pursue alternatives to the Bank's deposits, causing the Bank to lose a historically less expensive source of funding.  The Bank gathers deposits in direct competition with commercial banks, savings banks and brokerage firms, many among the largest in the nation. In addition, it must also compete for deposit monies against the stock markets, mutual funds, and other securities.  Over the previous decade, consolidation in the financial services industry, coupled with the emergence of Internet banking, has altered the deposit gathering landscape and may increase competitive pressures on the Bank.
 
The Bank may not be able to meet the cash flow requirements of its depositors and borrowers or meet its operating cash needs.

Liquidity is the ability to meet cash flow needs on a timely basis at a reasonable cost. The liquidity of the Bank is used to make loans and repay deposit liabilities as they become due or are demanded by customers. Liquidity policies and limits are established by the board of directors. The Holding Company's overall liquidity position and the liquidity position of the Bank are regularly monitored to ensure that various alternative strategies exist to cover unanticipated events that could affect liquidity. Funding sources include deposits, repayments of loans and MBS, investment security maturities and redemptions, and advances from the FHLBNY. The Bank maintains a portfolio of securities that can be used as a secondary source of liquidity. The Bank also can borrow through the Federal Reserve Bank’s discount window. If the Bank was unable to access any of these funding sources when needed, it might be unable to meet customers’ needs, which could adversely impact the Company's financial condition, results of operations, cash flows, and level of regulatory capital.

The soundness of other financial institutions could adversely affect the Company.

The Company's ability to engage in routine funding transactions could be adversely affected by the actions and commercial soundness of other financial institutions.  The Company has exposure to many different industries and counterparties.  As a result, defaults by, or even rumors or questions about, one or more financial services institutions, or the financial services industry generally, have led to market-wide liquidity problems and could lead to losses or defaults by the Company or by other institutions.  There is no assurance that any such losses would not materially and adversely affect the Company's results of operations.

Negative public opinion could damage the Company's reputation and adversely impact its business and revenues.

As a financial institution, the Bank's earnings and capital are subject to risks associated with negative public opinion.  Negative public opinion could result from the Company's actual or alleged conduct in any number of activities, including lending practices, the failure of any product or service sold by the Bank to meet customers’ expectations or applicable regulatory requirements, corporate governance and acquisitions, or from actions taken by government regulators and community organizations in response to those activities.  Negative public opinion can adversely affect the Company's ability to attract and/or retain clients and can expose the Company to litigation and regulatory action.  Actual or alleged conduct by one of the Company's businesses can result in negative public opinion about its other businesses.  Negative public opinion could also affect the Company's credit ratings, which are important to its access to unsecured wholesale borrowings.  Significant changes in these ratings could change the cost and availability of these sources of funding.

The recent adoption of regulatory reform legislation has created uncertainty and may have a material effect on the Company's operations and capital requirements.

The Reform Act creates minimum standards for the origination of mortgage loans.  The CFPB has adopted rules imposing extensive regulations governing an institution’s obligation to evaluate a borrower’s ability to repay a mortgage loan.  The rule applies to all consumer mortgages (except home equity lines of credit, timeshare plans, reverse mortgages or temporary loans). The rule also prohibits prepayment fees on certain types of mortgage loans.

Congress and various federal regulators also may significantly impact the financial services industry and the Company's business.  Complying with any new legislative or regulatory requirements could have an adverse impact on the Company's consolidated results of operations, its ability to fill positions with the most qualified candidates available, and the Holding Company's ability to maintain its dividend. Further, while the change in administration in the United States may ultimately roll back or modify certain of the regulatory reforms adopted since the financial crises, uncertainty about the timing and scope of any such changes as well as the cost of complying with a new regulatory regime, may negatively impact the Company’s businesses, at least in the short term.

Furthermore, the Federal Government may take action to transform the role of government in the U.S. housing market, such as reducing the size and scope of FNMA and FHLMC, or diminishing other government support to such markets. Congressional leaders have voiced similar plans for future legislation. It is too early to determine the nature and scope of any legislation that may develop along these lines, or the roles FNMA and FHLMC or the private sector will play in future housing markets. However, it is possible that legislation will be proposed over the near term that would considerably limit the nature of GSE guarantees relative to historical measurements, which could have broad adverse implications for the market and significant implications for the Company's business.
 
The Bank has recently become subject to more stringent capital requirements.

Effective January 1, 2015, the federal banking agencies have adopted the Basel III Capital Rules, which apply to both the Bank and Holding Company. These rules are subject to phase-in periods until January 1, 2019 for certain of their components.  The Basel III Capital Rules will result in significantly higher capital requirements and more restrictive leverage and liquidity ratios for the Bank than those previously in effect.  The Basel III Capital Rules will also apply to the Holding Company, which, as a savings and loan holding company, was not previously subject to consolidated risk-based capital requirements.

While the Bank expects to satisfy the requirements of the Basel III Capital Rules, inclusive of the capital conservation buffer, as phased in by the FRB, it may fail to do so. In addition, these requirements could have a negative impact on the Bank’s ability to lend, grow deposit balances, make acquisitions and make capital distributions in the form of increased dividends or share repurchases. Higher capital levels could also lower the Company’s consolidated return on equity.

The Company's accounting estimates and risk management processes rely on analytical and forecasting models.

The processes the Company uses to estimate its probable incurred loan losses and to measure the fair value of some financial instruments, as well as the processes used to estimate the effects of changing interest rates and other market measures on the Company’s financial condition and results of operations, depends upon the use of analytical and forecasting models. These models reflect assumptions that may not be accurate, particularly in times of market stress or other unforeseen circumstances. Even if these assumptions are adequate, the models may prove to be inadequate or inaccurate because of other flaws in their design or their implementation. If the models the Company uses for interest rate risk and asset-liability management are inadequate, the Company may incur increased or unexpected losses upon changes in market interest rates or other market measures. If the models the Company uses for determining its probable incurred loan losses are inadequate, the allowance for loan losses may not be sufficient to support future charge-offs. If the model the Company uses to measure the fair value of financial instruments is inadequate, the fair value of such financial instruments may fluctuate unexpectedly or may not accurately reflect what the Company could realize upon sale or settlement of such financial instruments. Any such failure in the Company’s analytical or forecasting models could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition and results of operations.

The value of the Company’s goodwill and other intangible assets may decline in the future.

As of December 31, 2016, the Company had $55.6 million of goodwill and other intangible assets.  A significant decline in the Company’s expected future cash flows, a significant adverse change in the business climate, slower growth rates or a significant and sustained decline in the price of the Common Stock may necessitate taking charges in the future related to the impairment of the Company’s goodwill and other intangible assets. If the Company were to conclude that a future write-down of goodwill and other intangible assets is necessary, the Company would record the appropriate charge, which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition and results of operations.

The Company’s controls and procedures may fail or be circumvented.

The Company's internal controls, disclosure controls and procedures, and corporate governance policies and procedures are based in part on certain assumptions and can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurances that the objectives of the system are satisfied. Any failure or circumvention of the Company's controls and procedures or failure to comply with regulations related to controls and procedures could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition and results of operations.
 
The Company's risk management practices may not be effective in mitigating the risks to which it is subject or in reducing the potential for losses in connection with such risks.

As a financial institution, the Company is subject to a number of risks, including credit, interest rate, liquidity, market, operational, legal/compliance, reputational, and strategic. The Company's risk management framework is designed to minimize the risks to which it is subject, as well as any losses resulting from such risks. Although the Company seeks to identify, measure, monitor, report, and control the Company's exposure to such risks, and employ a broad and diversified set of risk monitoring and mitigation techniques in the process, those techniques are inherently limited because they cannot anticipate the existence or development of risks that are currently unknown and unanticipated.

For example, recent economic conditions, heightened legislative and regulatory scrutiny of the financial services industry, and increases in the overall complexity of the Company's operations, among other developments, have resulted in the creation of a variety of risks that were previously unknown and unanticipated, highlighting the intrinsic limitations of the Company's risk monitoring and mitigation techniques. As a result, the further development of previously unknown or unanticipated risks may result in the Company incurring losses in the future that could adversely impact its financial condition and results of operations.

The Company's operations rely on certain external vendors.

The Company relies on certain external vendors to provide products and services necessary to maintain its day-to-day operations.  Accordingly, the Company’s operations are exposed to risk that these vendors will not perform in accordance with the contracted arrangements. The failure of an external vendor to perform in accordance with the contracted arrangements because of changes in the vendor’s organizational structure, financial condition, support for existing products and services, or strategic focus, or for any other reason, could be disruptive to the Company’s operations, which could have a material adverse impact on the Company’s business and, in turn, the Company’s financial condition and results of operations.

The Company is subject to environmental liability risk associated with lending activities.

A significant portion of the Company’s loan portfolio is secured by real property. During the ordinary course of business, the Company may foreclose on and take title to properties securing certain loans. In doing so, there is a risk that hazardous or toxic substances could be found on these properties. If hazardous or toxic substances are found, the Company may be liable for remediation costs, as well as for personal injury and property damage. Environmental laws may require the Company to incur substantial expenses and may materially reduce the affected property’s value or limit the Company’s ability to use or sell the affected property. In addition, future laws or more stringent interpretations or enforcement policies with respect to existing laws may increase the Company’s exposure to environmental liability. Environmental reviews of real property before initiating foreclosure may not be sufficient to detect all potential environmental hazards. The remediation costs and any other financial liabilities associated with an environmental hazard could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition and results of operations.

Severe weather, natural disasters, acts of war or terrorism and other external events could significantly impact the Company’s business.

Severe weather, natural disasters, acts of war or terrorism and other adverse external events could have a significant impact on the Company’s ability to conduct business. In addition, such events could affect the stability of the Company’s deposit base, impair the ability of borrowers to repay outstanding loans, impair the value of collateral securing loans, cause significant property damage, result in loss of revenue and/or cause the Company to incur additional expenses. The occurrence of any such event in the future could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, which, in turn, could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition and results of operations.
 
Credit risk stemming from held-for-investment lending activities may adversely impact on the Company's consolidated net income.

The loans originated by the Bank for investment are primarily multifamily residential loans and, to a lesser extent, commercial real estate loans. Such loans are generally larger, and have higher risk-adjusted returns and shorter maturities, than one-to four-family mortgage loans.  Credit risk would ordinarily be expected to increase with the growth of these loan portfolios.

Payments on multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans generally depend on the income produced by the underlying properties, which, in turn, depend on their successful operation and management. Accordingly, the ability of the Bank's borrowers to repay these loans may be impacted by adverse conditions in the local real estate market and the local economy.  While the Bank seeks to minimize these risks through its underwriting policies, which generally require that such loans be qualified on the basis of the collateral property’s cash flows, appraised value, and debt service coverage ratio, among other factors, there can be no assurance that the Bank's underwriting policies will protect it from credit-related losses or delinquencies.

Although the Bank's losses have been comparatively limited, despite the economic weakness in its market, it cannot guarantee that this record will be maintained in future periods. The ability of the Bank's borrowers to repay their loans could be adversely impacted by a further decline in real estate values and/or an increase in unemployment, which not only could result in an increase in charge-offs and/or the provision for loan losses.  Either of these events would have an adverse impact on the Company's consolidated net income.

Security measures may not be sufficient to mitigate the risk of a cyber attack.

Communications and information systems are essential to the conduct of the Company's business, as it uses such systems to manage its customer relationships, general ledger, deposits, and loans. The Company's operations rely on the secure processing, storage, and transmission of confidential and other information in its computer systems and networks. Although the Company takes protective measures and endeavors to modify them as circumstances warrant, the security of its computer systems, software, and networks may be vulnerable to breaches, unauthorized access, misuse, computer viruses, or other malicious code and cyber attacks that could have a security impact.

In addition, breaches of security may occur through intentional or unintentional acts by those having authorized or unauthorized access to the Company's confidential or other information or the confidential or other information of its customers, clients, or counterparties. If one or more of such events were to occur, the confidential and other information processed and stored in, and transmitted through, the Company's computer systems and networks could potentially be jeopardized, or the operations of the Company or its customers, clients, or counterparties could otherwise experience interruptions or malfunctions. This could cause the Company significant reputational damage or result in significant losses.

Furthermore, the Company may be required to expend significant additional resources to modify its protective measures or investigate and remediate vulnerabilities or other exposures arising from operational and security risks. Also, the Company may be subject to wholly or partially uninsured litigation and financial losses.

In addition, the Company routinely transmits and receives personal, confidential, and proprietary information by e-mail and other electronic means. The Company has discussed and worked with its appropriate customers and counterparties to develop secure transmission capabilities, however, it does not have, and may be unable to install, secure capabilities with all of these constituents, and may be unable to ensure that these third parties have appropriate controls in place to protect the confidentiality of such information.  Any interception, misuse, or mishandling of personal, confidential, or proprietary information transmitted to or received from a customer or counterparty could result in legal liability, regulatory action, and reputational harm, and could have a significant adverse effect on the Company's competitive position, financial condition, and results of operations.
 
Security measures may not protect the Company from systems failures or interruptions.

Communications and information systems are essential to the conduct of the Company's business, as it uses such systems to manage its customer relationships, general ledger, deposits, and loans. The Company's operations rely on the secure processing, storage, and transmission of confidential and other information in its computer systems and networks. The security of its computer systems, software, and networks may be vulnerable to breaches, unauthorized access, misuse, computer viruses, or other malicious code and cyber attacks that could have a security impact.

A failure in or breach of security may occur through intentional or unintentional acts by those having authorized or unauthorized access to the Company's confidential or other information or the confidential or other information of its customers, clients, or counterparties. If one or more of such events were to occur, the confidential and other information processed and stored in, and transmitted through, the Company's computer systems and networks could potentially be jeopardized, or the operations of the Company or its customers, clients, or counterparties could otherwise experience interruptions or malfunctions.  If this confidential or proprietary information were to be mishandled, misused or lost, the Company could additionally be exposed to significant regulatory consequences, reputational damage, civil litigation and financial loss.

Information security risks have generally increased in recent years because of the proliferation of new technologies and the increased sophistication and activities of perpetrators of cyber-attacks and mobile phishing.  Mobile phishing, a means for identity thieves to obtain sensitive personal information through fraudulent e-mail, text or voice mail, is an emerging threat targeting the customers of popular financial entities.

Furthermore, the Company may be required to expend significant additional resources to modify its protective measures or investigate and remediate vulnerabilities or other exposures arising from operational and security risks. Also, the Company may be subject to wholly or partially uninsured litigation and financial losses.

In addition, the Company routinely transmits and receives personal, confidential, and proprietary information by e-mail and other electronic means. The Company has discussed and worked with its appropriate customers and counterparties to develop secure transmission capabilities, however, it does not have, and may be unable to install, secure capabilities with all of these constituents, and may be unable to ensure that these third parties have appropriate controls in place to protect the confidentiality of such information.  Any interception, misuse, or mishandling of personal, confidential, or proprietary information transmitted to or received from a customer or counterparty could result in legal liability, regulatory action, and reputational harm, and could have a significant adverse effect on the Company's competitive position, financial condition, and results of operations.

The Company also outsources certain aspects of its data processing to select third-party providers. If these third-party providers encounter difficulties, or problems arise in communicating with them, the Company's ability to adequately process and account for customer transactions could be affected, and its business operations could be adversely impacted.

Although both the Company and all significant third party providers utilized to process, store and transmit confidential and other information employ a variety of physical, procedural and technological safeguards to protect this confidential and proprietary information from mishandling, these safeguards do not provide absolute assurance that mishandling, misuse or loss of the information will not occur, and that if mishandling, misuse or loss of the information did occur, those events will be promptly detected and addressed.

The trading volume in the Common Stock is less than that of other larger financial services companies.

Although the Common Stock is listed for trading on the Nasdaq National Exchange, the trading volume in its Common Stock is less than that of other, larger financial services companies. A public trading market having the desired characteristics of depth, liquidity and orderliness depends on the presence in the marketplace of willing buyers and sellers of the Common Stock at any given time. This presence depends on the individual decisions of investors and general economic and market conditions over which the Holding Company has no control. Given the lower trading volume of the Common Stock, significant sales of the Common Stock, or the expectation of these sales, could, from time to time, cause the Holding Company's stock price to exhibit weakness unrelated to financial performance.
 
The Holding Company may reduce or eliminate dividends on its Common Stock in the future.

Holders of the Common Stock are entitled to receive only such dividends as its Board of Directors may declare out of funds legally available for such payments. Although the Holding Company has historically declared cash dividends on its Common Stock, it is not required to do so and may reduce or eliminate its Common Stock dividend in the future. This could adversely affect the market price of the Common Stock. In addition, the Holding Company is a savings and loan holding company, and its ability to declare and pay dividends is dependent on certain federal regulatory considerations, including the guidelines of the Federal Reserve Board regarding capital adequacy and dividends.

Item 1B.  Unresolved Staff Comments

Not applicable.

Item 2.   Properties

The Holding Company neither owns nor leases any property, but instead uses the premises and equipment of the back office of the Bank.  The Bank leases commercial office space for its back office located at 300 Cadman Plaza West, 8 th Floor, Brooklyn, New York 11201.  The principal office of the Bank is a fully owned building located at 209 Havemeyer Street, Brooklyn, New York 11211. During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Bank executed a contract of sale for its principal office, expected to close during the year ended December 31, 2017. As of December 31, 2016, the Bank conducted its business through twenty-five full-service retail banking offices located throughout Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx and Nassau County, New York. The Bank owns eight of these offices, and leases seventeen. The Bank opened two additional branches located in Brooklyn, New York in February 2017, which are both leased.

Item 3.   Legal Proceedings

In the ordinary course of business, the Company is routinely named as a defendant in or party to various pending or threatened legal actions or proceedings.  Certain of these matters may seek substantial monetary damages.  In the opinion of management, the Company is involved in no actions or proceedings that will have a material adverse impact on its consolidated financial condition and results of operations.

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

The Common Stock is traded on the Nasdaq National Market and quoted under the symbol "DCOM."  Prior to June 15, 1998, the Common Stock was quoted under the symbol "DIME."

The following table indicates the high and low sales price for the Common Stock, and dividends declared, during the periods indicated.  The Common Stock began trading on June 26, 1996, the date of the initial public offering.

   
Twelve Months Ended
December 31, 2016
   
Twelve Months Ended
December 31, 2015
 
 
 
Quarter Ended
 
Dividends
Declared
   
High
Sales
Price
   
Low
Sales
Price
   
Dividends
Declared
   
High
Sales
Price
   
Low
Sales
Price
 
March 31 st
 
$
0.14
   
$
17.96
   
$
15.61
   
$
0.14
   
$
16.49
   
$
14.73
 
June 30 th
   
0.14
     
18.87
     
16.37
     
0.14
     
17.66
     
15.46
 
September 30 th
   
0.14
     
18.27
     
16.53
     
0.14
     
18.00
     
16.04
 
December 31 st
   
0.14
     
20.45
     
16.10
     
0.14
     
18.45
     
16.20
 
 
On December 30, 2016, the final trading date in the fiscal year, the Common Stock closed at $20.10.
 
Management estimates that the Holding Company had approximately 6,000 stockholders of record as of March 1, 2017, including persons or entities holding stock in nominee or street name through various brokers and banks. There were 37,445,853 shares of Common Stock outstanding at December 31, 2016.

The Holding Company is subject to the requirements of Delaware law, which generally limits dividends to an amount equal to the excess of net assets ( i.e., the amount by which total assets exceed total liabilities) over statutory capital, or if no such excess exists, to net profits for the current and/or immediately preceding fiscal year.

During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Holding Company paid cash dividends totaling $20.6 million, representing $0.56 per outstanding common share.  During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Holding Company paid cash dividends totaling $20.3 million, representing $0.56 per outstanding common share.

As the principal asset of the Holding Company, the Bank is often called upon to provide funds for the Holding Company's payment of dividends (See "Item 1 – Business - Regulation – Regulation of New York State Chartered Savings Banks – Limitation on Capital Distributions").

In March 2004, the Holding Company issued $72.2 million in trust preferred debt, with a stated annual coupon rate of 7.0%. The Holding Company re-acquired and retired $1.5 million of this outstanding debt during 2009.  Pursuant to the provisions of the debt, the Holding Company is required to first satisfy the interest obligation on the debt, which currently approximates $5.0 million annually, prior to the authorization and payment of Common Stock cash dividends.  Management of the Holding Company does not presently believe that this requirement will materially affect its ability to pay dividends to its common stockholders.
ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

The following table summarizes information regarding purchases of Common Stock during the fourth quarter of 2016 in accordance with the approved stock repurchase plan:

 
 
 
Period
 
Total
Number
of Shares
Purchased
 
Average
Price Paid 
Per Share
 
Total Number of
Shares Purchased as
 Part of Publicly
Announced Programs (1)
 
Maximum Number of
Shares that May Yet be
Purchased Under the
Programs (1)
 
October 2016
 
  ‑
 
  ‑
 
  ‑
   
1,104,549
 
November 2016
 
  ‑
 
  ‑
 
  ‑
   
1,104,549
 
December 2016
 
  ‑
 
  ‑
 
  ‑
   
1,104,549
 
 
(1)
The twelfth stock repurchase program was publicly announced in June 2007, authorizing the purchase of up to 1,787,665 shares of the Common Stock, and has no expiration.
 
Performance Graph

Pursuant to regulations of the SEC, the graph below compares the Holding Company's stock performance with that of the total return for the U.S. Nasdaq Stock Market and an index of all thrift stocks as reported by SNL Securities L.C. from January 1, 2012 through December 31, 2016.  The graph assumes the reinvestment of dividends in additional shares of the same class of equity securities as those listed below.
 
 
 
Period Ending December 31,
Index
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
Dime Community Bancshares, Inc.
100.00
114.74
145.02
144.63
160.80
191.03
NASDAQ Composite
100.00
117.45
164.57
188.84
201.98
219.89
SNL Thrift
100.00
121.63
156.09
167.88
188.78
231.23
 
Item 6.   Selected Financial Data

Financial Highlights
(Dollars in Thousands, except per share data)

The consolidated financial and other data of the Company as of and for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013 and 2012 set forth below is derived in part from, and should be read in conjunction with, the Company's audited Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto.  Certain amounts as of and for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 have been reclassified to conform to the December 31, 2016 and 2015 presentation.  These reclassifications were not material.

   
At or for the Year Ended December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
Selected Financial Condition Data:
                             
Total assets
 
$
6,005,430
   
$
5,032,872
   
$
4,497,107
   
$
4,028,190
   
$
3,905,399
 
Loans and loans held for sale (net of deferred costs or fees and the allowance for loan losses)
   
5,615,886
     
4,678,262
     
4,100,747
     
3,679,366
     
3,485,818
 
MBS
   
3,558
     
431
     
26,409
     
31,543
     
49,021
 
Investment securities (including FHLBNY capital stock)
   
60,670
     
77,912
     
76,139
     
78,863
     
88,762
 
Federal funds sold and other short-term investments
   
-
     
-
     
250
     
-
     
-
 
Goodwill
   
55,638
     
55,638
     
55,638
     
55,638
     
55,638
 
Deposits
   
4,395,426
     
3,184,310
     
2,659,792
     
2,507,146
     
2,479,429
 
Borrowings
   
901,805
     
1,237,405
     
1,244,405
     
980,680
     
913,180
 
Stockholders' equity
   
565,868
     
493,947
     
459,725
     
435,506
     
391,574
 
Selected Operating Data:
                                       
Interest income
 
$
195,627
   
$
174,791
   
$
172,952
   
$
175,456
   
$
195,954
 
Interest expense
   
52,141
     
46,227
     
48,416
     
46,969
     
86,112
 
Net interest income
   
143,486
     
128,564
     
124,536
     
128,487
     
109,842
 
Provision (credit) for loan losses
   
2,118
     
(1,330
)
   
(1,872
)
   
369
     
3,921
 
Net interest income after provision (credit) for loan losses
   
141,368
     
129,894
     
126,408
     
128,118
     
105,921
 
Non-interest income
   
75,934
     
8,616
     
9,038
     
7,463
     
23,849
 
Non-interest expense
   
83,831
     
62,493
     
61,076
     
62,692
     
62,572
 
Income before income tax
   
133,471
     
76,017
     
74,370
     
72,889
     
67,198
 
Income tax expense
   
60,957
     
31,245
     
30,124
     
29,341
     
26,890
 
Net income
 
$
72,514
   
$
44,772
   
$
44,246
   
$
43,548
   
$
40,308
 
 
   
At or for the Year Ended December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
SELECTED FINANCIAL RATIOS AND OTHER DATA (1):
                             
Return on average assets
   
1.31
%
   
0.96
%
   
1.03
%
   
1.09
%
   
1.02
%
Return on average stockholders' equity
   
13.40
     
9.40
     
9.83
     
10.58
     
10.73
 
Stockholders' equity to total assets at end of period
   
9.42
     
9.81
     
10.22
     
10.81
     
10.03
 
Loans to deposits at end of period
   
128.23
     
147.50
     
154.87
     
147.56
     
141.42
 
Loans to interest-earning assets at end of period
   
95.92
     
95.98
     
94.68
     
96.74
     
94.41
 
Net interest spread (2)
   
2.52
     
2.72
     
2.84
     
3.19
     
2.58
 
Net interest margin (3)
   
2.68
     
2.89
     
3.03
     
3.39
     
2.92
 
Average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities
   
116.85
     
116.64
     
115.98
     
116.49
     
114.83
 
Non-interest expense to average assets
   
1.51
     
1.34
     
1.42
     
1.57
     
1.59
 
Efficiency ratio (4)
   
55.48
     
45.98
     
46.28
     
46.23
     
52.58
 
Effective tax rate
   
45.67
     
41.10
     
40.51
     
40.25
     
40.02
 
Dividend payout ratio
   
28.43
     
45.53
     
45.53
     
45.53
     
47.86
 
Per Share Data:
                                       
Diluted earnings per share
 
$
1.97
   
$
1.23
   
$
1.23
   
$
1.23
   
$
1.17
 
Cash dividends paid per share
   
0.56
     
0.56
     
0.56
     
0.56
     
0.56
 
Book value per share (5)
   
15.11
     
13.22
     
12.47
     
11.86
     
10.96
 
Asset Quality Ratios and Other Data(1):
                                       
Net charge-offs (recoveries)
 
$
97
   
$
(1,351
)
 
$
(212
)
 
$
766
   
$
3,707
 
Total non-performing loans (6)
   
4,237
     
1,611
     
6,198
     
12,549
     
8,888
 
OREO
   
-
     
148
     
18
     
18
     
-
 
Non-performing TRUP CDOs
   
1,270
     
1,236
     
904
     
898
     
892
 
Total non-performing assets
   
5,507
     
2,995
     
7,120
     
13,465
     
9,780
 
Non-performing loans to total loans
   
0.08
%
   
0.03
%
   
0.15
%
   
0.34
%
   
0.25
%
Non-performing assets to total assets
   
0.09
     
0.06
     
0.16
     
0.33
     
0.25
 
Allowance for Loan Losses to:
                                       
Non-performing loans
   
484.68
%
   
1,149.22
%
   
298.37
%
   
160.59
%
   
231.21
%
Total loans (7)
   
0.36
     
0.39
     
0.45
     
0.54
     
0.59
 
Regulatory Capital Ratios: (Bank only) (1)(8)
                                       
Common Equity Tier 1 Capital to Risk-Weighted Assets
   
11.60
%
   
11.55
%
   
12.33
%
   
N/A
     
N/A
 
Tier 1 Capital to Risk-Weighted Assets ("Tier 1 Capital Ratio")
   
11.60
     
11.55
     
12.33
     
N/A
     
N/A
 
Total Capital to Risk-Weighted Assets ("Total Capital Ratio")
   
12.05
     
12.03
     
12.89
     
N/A
     
N/A
 
Tier 1 Capital to Average Assets
   
8.95
     
9.17
     
9.64
     
N/A
     
N/A
 
Earnings to Fixed Charges Ratios (9) :
                                       
Including interest on deposits
   
3.48x
 
   
2.60x
 
   
2.50x
 
   
2.51x
 
   
1.77x
 
Excluding interest on deposits
   
7.25
     
4.11
     
3.49
     
3.58
     
2.95
 
Full Service Branches
   
25
     
25
     
25
     
25
     
26
 

 (1)
With the exception of end of period ratios, all ratios are based on average daily balances during the indicated periods. Asset Quality Ratios and Regulatory Capital Ratios are end of period ratios.
 
(2)
The net interest spread represents the difference between the weighted-average yield on interest-earning assets and the weighted-average cost of interest-bearing liabilities.
 
(3)
The net interest margin represents net interest income as a percentage of average interest-earning assets.
 
(4)
The efficiency ratio represents non-interest expense as a percentage of the sum of net interest income and non-interest income, excluding any gains or losses on sales of assets.
 
(5)
Book value per share equals total stockholders' equity divided by shares outstanding at each period end.
 
(6)
Includes non-performing loans designated as held for sale at period end.
 
(7)
Total loans represent loans and loans held for sale, net of deferred fees and costs and unamortized premiums, and excluding (thus not reducing the aggregate balance by) the allowance for loan losses.
 
(8)
Regulatory capital ratios are calculated based upon the Basel III capital rules that became effective on January 1, 2015.  Pro forma ratios computed as of December 31, 2014 have been provided, however, periods prior to December 31, 2014 are not provided.
 
(9)
Earnings to fixed charges ratio is a non-GAAP measure. For purposes of computing the ratios of earnings to fixed charges, earnings represent income before taxes, extraordinary items and the cumulative effect of accounting changes plus fixed charges.  Fixed charges represent total interest expense, including and excluding interest on deposits.
 
Item 7.    Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Executive Summary

The Holding Company’s primary business is the ownership of the Bank.  The Company’s consolidated results of operations are dependent primarily on net interest income, which is the difference between the interest income earned on interest-earning assets, such as loans and securities, and the interest expense paid on interest-bearing liabilities, such as deposits and borrowings.  The Bank additionally generates non-interest income such as service charges and other fees, mortgage banking related income, and income associated with Bank Owned Life Insurance (“BOLI”).  Non-interest expense primarily consists of employee compensation and benefits, federal deposit insurance premiums, data processing costs, occupancy and equipment, marketing and other operating expenses.  The Company’s consolidated results of operations are also significantly affected by general economic and competitive conditions (particularly fluctuations in market interest rates), government policies, changes in accounting standards and actions of regulatory agencies.

The Bank's primary strategy is generally to seek to increase its product and service utilization for each individual depositor, and increase its household and deposit market shares in the communities that it serves.  In recent years, particular emphasis has been placed upon growing individual and small business commercial checking account balances. The Bank also actively strives to obtain checking account balances affiliated with the operation of the collateral underlying its mortgage loans, as well as personal deposit accounts from its borrowers. The Bank additionally utilizes an internet banking initiative, "Dime Direct." To date, deposits gathered through Dime Direct have primarily been promotional money markets. Given their nature, the Dime Direct deposits are anticipated to carry lower administrative servicing costs than the Bank's traditional retail deposits. The Bank’s primary strategy additionally includes the origination of, and investment in, mortgage loans, with an emphasis on NYC multifamily residential and mixed-use real estate loans.  The Company believes that multifamily residential and mixed-use loans in and around NYC provide several advantages as investment assets.  Initially, they offer a higher yield than investment securities of comparable maturities or terms to repricing.  In addition, origination and processing costs for the Bank’s multifamily residential and mixed use loans are lower per thousand dollars of originations than comparable one-to four-family loan costs.  Further, the Bank’s market area has generally provided a stable flow of new and refinanced multifamily residential and mixed-use loan originations.  In order to address the credit risk associated with multifamily residential and mixed use lending, the Bank has developed underwriting standards that it believes are reliable in order to maintain consistent credit quality for its loans.

The Bank seeks to maintain the asset quality of its loans and other investments, and uses portfolio and asset/liability management techniques in an effort to manage the effects of interest rate volatility on its profitability and capital. The Bank may purchase investment grade securities to provide a source of liquidity and earnings,

  Critical Accounting Policies

The Company’s accounting and reporting policies are prepared in accordance with GAAP and conform to general practices within the banking industry. See Note 1 to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2016, which contains the Company’s significant accounting policies.

The Company’s policies with respect to (1) the methodologies it uses to determine the allowance for loan losses (including reserves for loan commitments), and (2) accounting for defined benefit plans are its most critical accounting policies because they are important to the presentation of the Company’s consolidated financial condition and results of operations, involve a significant degree of complexity and require management to make difficult and subjective judgments which often necessitate assumptions or estimates about highly uncertain matters. The use of different judgments, assumptions or estimates could result in material variations in the Company's consolidated results of operations or financial condition.

The following are descriptions of the Company's critical accounting policies and explanations of the methods and assumptions underlying their application.
 
Allowance for Loan Losses and Reserve for Loan Commitments

The allowance for loan losses is provided to reflect probable incurred losses inherent in the loan portfolio. Management reviews the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses by reviewing all impaired loans on an individual basis. The remaining portfolio is segmented and evaluated on a pooled basis.  Factors considered in determining the appropriateness of the allowance for loan losses include the Bank's past loan loss experience, known and inherent risks in the portfolio, existing adverse situations which may affect a borrower's ability to repay, the estimated value of underlying collateral and current economic conditions in the Bank's lending area.  Judgment is required to determine the appropriate historical loss experience period, as well as the manner in which to quantify probable losses associated with the additional factors noted above. This evaluation is inherently subjective, as estimates are susceptible to significant revisions as more information becomes available.

Although management uses available information to estimate losses on loans, future additions to, or reductions in, the allowance may be necessary based on changes in economic conditions or other factors beyond management's control. In addition, the Bank's regulators, as an integral part of their examination processes, periodically review the Bank's allowance for loan losses, and may require the Bank to recognize additions to, or reductions in, the allowance based upon judgments different from those of management.

The Bank's methods and assumptions utilized to periodically determine its allowance for loan losses are summarized in Note 5 to the Company's consolidated financial statements.

Accounting for Defined Benefit Plans

Defined benefit plans are accounted for in accordance with ASC 715, which requires an employer sponsoring a single employer defined benefit plan to recognize the funded status of such benefit plan in its statements of financial condition, measured as the difference between plan assets at fair value (with limited exceptions) and the benefit obligation.  The Company utilizes the services of trained actuaries employed at an independent benefits plan administration entity in order to assist in measuring the funded status of its defined benefit plans. The Company provides the actuaries several key assumptions which have a significant impact on the pension benefits and other postretirement benefit obligations as well as benefits expense. These assumptions include the discount rate and the expected return on plan assets (for plans that own assets) which are regularly reviewed and evaluated for reasonableness in conjunction with current market interest rates and conditions. All assumptions impacting the Company's defined benefit plans are reviewed at least annually, and more frequently should circumstances warrant.
 
The discount rate is used to calculate the present value of the benefit obligations at the measurement date and the expense to be recorded in the next fiscal year. A lower discount rate assumption typically generates a higher benefit obligation and expense, while a higher discount rate assumption typically generates a lower benefit obligation and expense. Discount rate assumptions are determined by reference to the Citigroup Pension Discount Curve (a commonly utilized benchmark), adjusted for plan specific cash flows. These rates are reviewed for reasonableness and adjusted, as necessary, to reflect current market data and trends.
 
In order to determine the expected long-term return on plan assets, the Company reviews the long-term historical return information on plan assets, the mix of investments that comprise plan assets and the historical returns on indices comparable to the fund classes in which the plan invests.
 
While the Company's management utilizes available information to estimate these key assumptions, future fluctuations may occur based on changes in the underlying benchmark data or other factors beyond management's control.

The Company's methods and assumptions utilized for its accounting for defined benefit plans are discussed in Note 14 to the Company's consolidated financial statements.
 
Analysis of Net Interest Income

The Company's profitability, like that of most banking institutions, is dependent primarily upon net interest income.  Net interest income depends on the relative amounts of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, and the interest rate earned or paid on them.  The following tables set forth certain information relating to the Company's consolidated statements of operations for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, and reflect the average yield on interest-earning assets and average cost of interest-bearing liabilities for the periods indicated. Such yields and costs are derived by dividing interest income or expense by the average balance of interest-earning assets or interest-bearing liabilities, respectively, for the periods indicated. Average balances are derived from daily balances. The yields and costs include fees and charges that are considered adjustments to yields and costs.  All material changes in average balances and interest income or expense are discussed in the section entitled "Net Interest Income" in the comparisons of operating results commencing on page F-41.

   
For the Year Ended December 31,
 
         
2016
               
2015
               
2014
       
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
   
Average
Balance
   
Interest
   
Average
Yield/
Cost
   
Average
Balance
   
Interest
   
Average
Yield/
Cost
   
Average
Balance
   
Interest
   
Average
Yield/
Cost
 
Assets:
                                                     
Interest-earning assets:
                                                     
Real estate loans  (1)
 
$
5,210,984
   
$
191,856
     
3.68
%
 
$
4,327,415
   
$
171,347
     
3.96
%
 
$
3,962,566
   
$
169,208
     
4.27
%
Other loans
   
1,745
     
115
     
6.59
     
1,562
     
93
     
5.95
     
1,954
     
105
     
5.37
 
Investment securities
   
18,489
     
880
     
4.76
     
18,570
     
875
     
4.71
     
19,220
     
560
     
2.91
 
MBS
   
1,216
     
20
     
1.64
     
6,111
     
186
     
3.04
     
27,658
     
914
     
3.30
 
Federal funds sold and other short-term investments
   
118,576
     
2,756
     
2.32
     
89,837
     
2,290
     
2.55
     
92,609
     
2,165
     
2.34
 
Total interest-earning assets
   
5,351,010
   
$
195,627
     
3.66
%
   
4,443,495
   
$
174,791
     
3.93
%
   
4,104,007
   
$
172,952
     
4.21
%
Non-interest earning assets
   
203,758
                     
216,981
                     
190,627
                 
Total assets
 
$
5,554,768
                   
$
4,660,476
                   
$
4,294,634
                 
                                                                         
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity:
                                                                       
Interest-bearing liabilities:
                                                                       
Interest bearing checking accounts
 
$
89,197
   
$
230
     
0.26
%
 
$
76,210
   
$
244
     
0.32
%
 
$
79,455
   
$
222
     
0.28
%
Money Market accounts
   
2,063,787
     
17,293
     
0.84
     
1,370,531
     
10,133
     
0.74
     
1,113,104
     
6,265
     
0.56
 
Savings accounts
   
367,311
     
182
     
0.05
     
370,439
     
183
     
0.05
     
377,930
     
188
     
0.05
 
CDs
   
1,015,615
     
14,669
     
1.44
     
902,600
     
12,445
     
1.38
     
858,526
     
12,916
     
1.50
 
Borrowed Funds (2)
   
1,043,515
     
19,767
     
1.89
     
1,089,700
     
23,222
     
2.13
     
1,109,532
     
28,825
     
2.60
 
Total interest-bearing liabilities
   
4,579,425
   
$
52,141
     
1.14
%
   
3,809,480
   
$
46,227
     
1.21
%
   
3,538,547
   
$
48,416
     
1.37
%
Non-interest bearing checking accounts
   
263,527
                     
220,134
                     
177,163
                 
Other non-interest-bearing liabilities
   
170,569
                     
154,809
                     
129,034
                 
Total liabilities
   
5,013,521
                     
4,184,423
                     
3,844,744
                 
Stockholders' equity
   
541,247
                     
476,053
                     
449,890
                 
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
 
$
5,554,768
                   
$
4,660,476
                   
$
4,294,634
                 
Net interest income
         
$
143,486
                   
$
128,564
                   
$
124,536
         
Net interest spread (3)
                   
2.52
%
                   
2.72
%
                   
2.84
%
Net interest-earning assets
 
$
771,585
                   
$
634,015
                   
$
565,460
                 
Net interest margin (4)
                   
2.68
%
                   
2.89
%
                   
3.03
%
Ratio of interest-earning assets to interest-bearing liabilities
           
116.85
%
                   
116.64
%
                   
115.98
%
       
 
(1)
In computing the average balance of real estate loans, non-performing loans have been included.  Interest income on real estate loans includes loan fees.  Interest income on real estate loans also includes applicable prepayment fees and late charges totaling $9.0 million, $11.3  million and $12.5 million during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
 
(2)
Interest expense on borrowed funds includes $1.4 million of prepayment charge recognized during the year ended December 31, 2015.  There were no such fees during the years ended December 31, 2016 or 2014.  Absent the prepayment charge, the average cost of borrowings would have been 2.01% during the year ended December 31, 2015.
 
(3)
Net interest spread represents the difference between the average yield on interest-earning assets and the average cost of interest-bearing liabilities.
 
(4)
Net interest margin represents net interest income as a percentage of average interest-earning assets.
 
Rate/Volume Analysis

The following table represents the extent to which variations in interest rates and the volume of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities have affected interest income and interest expense during the periods indicated. Information is provided in each category with respect to: (i) variances attributable to fluctuations in volume (change in volume multiplied by prior rate), (ii) variances attributable to rate (changes in rate multiplied by prior volume), and (iii) the net change. Variances attributable to the combined impact of volume and rate have been allocated proportionately to the changes due to volume and the changes due to rate.

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2016 over 2015
Increase/ (Decrease) Due to
   
2015 over 2014
Increase/ (Decrease) Due to
 
   
Volume
   
Rate
   
Total
   
Volume
   
Rate
   
Total
 
Interest-earning assets:
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Real Estate Loans
 
$
22,030
   
$
(1,521
)
 
$
20,509
   
$
15,002
   
$
(12,863
)
 
$
2,139
 
Other loans
   
11
     
11
     
22
     
(22
)
   
10
     
(12
)
Investment securities
   
(1
)
   
6
     
5
     
(25
)
   
340
     
315
 
MBS
   
(99
)
   
(67
)
   
(166
)
   
(684
)
   
(44
)
   
(728
)
Federal funds sold and other short-term investments
   
468
     
(2
)
   
466
     
(67
)
   
192
     
125
 
Total
 
$
22,409
   
$
(1,573
)
 
$
20,836
   
$
14,204
   
$
(12,365
)
 
$
1,839
 
Interest-bearing liabilities:
                                               
Interest bearing checking accounts
 
$
37
   
$
(51
)
 
$
(14
)
 
$
(10
)
 
$
32
   
$
22
 
Money market accounts
   
5,458
     
1,702
     
7,160
     
1,657
     
2,211
     
3,868
 
Savings accounts
   
(2
)
   
1
     
(1
)
   
(4
)
   
(1
)
   
(5
)
CDs
   
1,620
     
604
     
2,224
     
611
     
(1,082
)
   
(471
)
Borrowed funds
   
(912
)
   
(2,543
)
   
(3,455
)
   
(452
)
   
(5,151
)
   
(5,603
)
Total
 
$
6,201
   
$
(287
)
 
$
5,914
   
$
1,802
   
$
(3,991
)
 
$
(2,189
)
Net change in net interest income
 
$
16,208
   
$
(1,286
)
 
$
14,922
   
$
12,402
   
$
(8,374
)
 
$
4,028
 

Comparison of Operating Results for the Years Ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014

Net income was $72.5 million in 2016, compared to $44.8 million in 2015, and $44.2 million in 2014.  During 2016, net interest income increased $14.9 million, the provision for loan losses increased by $3.4 million, non-interest income increased by $67.3 million and non-interest expense increased by $21.3 million.  Income tax expense increased $29.7 million in 2016, as a result of $57.5 million of additional pre-tax income. Net interest income increased $4.0 million in 2015.  Offsetting this increase, non-interest income declined $422,000, non-interest expense increased $1.4 million, and 2015 earnings experienced a $542,000 lower benefit from the credit (negative provision) for loan losses than was experienced in 2014. Income tax expense increased $1.1 million in 2015, primarily as a result of $1.6 million of additional pre-tax income.

Net Interest Income

The discussion of net interest income for 2016, 2015, and 2014 below should be read in conjunction with the tables presented on pages F-40 and F-41, which set forth certain information related to the consolidated statements of operations for those periods, and which also present the average yield on assets and average cost of liabilities for the periods indicated.

The Company’s net interest income and net interest margin during 2016, 2015, and 2014 were impacted by the following factors:

·
During the period January 1, 2009 through December 31, 2016, FOMC monetary policies resulted in the maintenance of the overnight federal funds rate in a range of 0.0% to 0.75%, resulting in deposit and borrowing costs at historically low levels.

·
Increased marketplace competition and refinancing activity on real estate loans, particularly during the period January 1, 2012 through December 31, 2016, resulted in an ongoing reduction in the average yield on real estate loans.
 
Interest income was $195.6 million in 2016, $174.8 million in 2015, and $173.0 in 2014. During 2016, interest income increased $20.8 million from 2015, primarily reflecting increases in interest income of $20.5 million on real estate loans and $466,000 on other short term investments. The increased interest income on real estate loans reflected growth of $883.6 million in their average balance during the comparative period, as new originations significantly exceeded amortization and satisfactions during 2016 in connection with the Company’s growth strategy. Partially offsetting the higher interest income on real estate loans from the growth in their average balance was a reduction of 28 basis points in their average yield, resulting from both continued low lending rates and heightened marketplace competition. The increase in interest income on other short-term investments reflected an increase of $28.7 million in their average balance as a result of increased cash from $75.9 million net proceeds from the sale of premises, offset by a 23 basis point decline in their average yield during the comparative period. During 2015, interest income increased $1.8 million from 2014, primarily reflecting increases in interest income of $2.1 million on real estate loans, $315,000 on investment securities and $125,000 on federal funds sold and other short term investments. The increased interest income on real estate loans reflected growth of $364.8 million in their average balance during the comparative period, as new originations significantly exceeded amortization and satisfactions during 2015. Partially offsetting the higher interest income on real estate loans from the growth in their average balance was a reduction of 31 basis points in their average yield, resulting from both continued low benchmark lending rates and heightened marketplace competition. Additional interest income (previously owed but not paid timely by the issuing companies) was received and recorded on the Bank's TRUP CDOs in 2015, generating the majority of the $315,000 increase in interest income on investment securities during the comparative period. The increase in interest income on federal funds sold and other short-term investments resulted from a more favorable yield earned on the Company’s investment in FHLBNY capital stock, reflecting higher discretionary dividends declared by the FHLBNY. Partially offsetting these increases was a reduction of $728,000 in interest income on MBS, primarily reflecting a decline of $21.5 million in their average balance during the comparative period, as the Company liquidated virtually its entire MBS portfolio in March 2015.

Interest expense was $52.1 million in 2016, $46.2 million in 2015, and $48.4 million in 2014. During 2016, interest expense increased $5.9 million from 2015, primarily reflecting increases in expense of $7.2 million on money market accounts and $2.2 million on CDs, offset by a reduction of $3.5 million in interest expense on borrowed funds. The increase of $7.2 million in interest expense on money market deposits reflected successful promotional activities in connection with the Company’s growth strategy that increased their average balance by $693.3 million and their average cost by 10 basis points in 2016.  The increase of $2.2 million in interest expense on CDs reflected an increase in their average balance by $113.0 million and their average cost by 6 basis points, as the Bank competed more aggressively for CDs during 2016 compared to 2015. Interest expense on borrowings declined $3.5 million due to a reduction of 24 basis points in their average cost (resulting from the re-pricing of higher interest rate borrowings), and a decrease in their average balance by $46.2 million during 2016 compared to 2015 as FHLBNY advances continued to mature. Interest expense decreased $2.2 million in 2015 from 2014, primarily due to reductions of $5.6 million in interest expense on borrowed funds and $471,000 on CDs during 2015, offset by an increase of $3.9 million in interest expense on money market deposits. Interest expense on borrowings declined $5.6 million due to a reduction of 47 basis points in their average cost, as higher-cost borrowings that matured during 2015 were not replaced. The reduction in interest expense on CDs reflected a decline of 12 basis points in their average cost, as the Bank competed less aggressively for CDs during 2015, instead emphasizing strategies aimed at growing money market and non-interest bearing checking deposits. The increase of $3.9 million in interest expense on money market deposits reflected successful promotional activities that increased their average balance by $257.4 million and their average cost by 18 basis points in 2015.

Provision (Credit) for Loan Losses

The Company recognized a provision for loan losses of $2.1 million in 2016, a credit (negative provision) for loan losses of $1.3 million in 2015, and a credit (negative provision) for loan losses of $1.9 million in 2014. The $2.1 million provision for loan losses recognized during 2016 resulted mainly from growth in the real estate portfolio in connection with the Company’s growth strategy, offset by continued improvement in the overall credit quality of the loan portfolio.  The credits recorded during the years ended both December 31, 2015 and 2014 reflected continued improvement in the overall credit quality of the loan portfolio from October 1, 2013 through December 31, 2015. The credit recorded during 2015 also reflected a $1.5 million recovery of previously charged-off amounts from the favorable resolution of the Bank's largest problem loan, offset by growth of $577.8 million in the real estate loan portfolio during 2015.
 
The following table sets forth activity in the Bank's allowance for loan losses at or for the dates indicated:

   
At or for the Year Ended December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
Allowance for loan losses:
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Balance at beginning of period
 
$
18,514
   
$
18,493
   
$
20,153
   
$
20,550
   
$
20,254
 
Provision (credit) for loan losses
   
2,118
     
(1,330
)
   
(1,872
)
   
369
     
3,921
 
Charge-offs
                                       
Multifamily residential
   
(92
)
   
(48
)
   
(87
)
   
(504
)
   
(2,478
)
Commercial real estate
   
(12
)
   
(44
)
   
(336
)
   
(400
)
   
(1,342
)
One- to four-family including condominium and  cooperative apartment
   
(79
)
   
(115
)
   
(46
)
   
(117
)
   
(777
)
Construction
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
(3
)
Consumer
   
(3
)
   
(2
)
   
(9
)
   
(21
)
   
(10
)
Total charge-offs
   
(186
)
   
(209
)
   
(478
)
   
(1,042
)
   
(4,610
)
Recoveries
   
90
     
1,560
     
690
     
276
     
903
 
Reserve for loan commitments transferred from other liabilities
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
82
 
Balance at end of period
 
$
20,536
   
$
18,514
   
$
18,493
   
$
20,153
   
$
20,550
 

Non-Interest Income

Total   non-interest income was $75.9 million in 2016, $8.6 million in 2015, and $9.0 million in 2014. During 2016, non-interest income increased $67.3 million from 2015, due primarily to a gain of $68.2 million recognized on the sale of real estate and $329,000 of increased income from BOLI during the year ended December 31, 2016. Partially offsetting these increases were a $1.3 million gain on the sale of MBS in 2015, and a decline in service charges and other fees during the comparative period as a result of lower transaction volume. During 2015, non-interest income declined $422,000 from 2014, due primarily to a reduction of $328,000 in the net gain on the sale of securities and other assets during the comparative period, and a credit of $1.0 million recognized as additional mortgage banking income during 2014.  The $1.0 million credit eliminated the liability in relation to loans sold to FNMA on which the Bank retained an obligation (off-balance sheet contingent liability) to absorb losses  on loans that were re-acquired from FNMA during 2014.   Partially offsetting the reductions were the following increases during 2015: 1) $662,000 of income from BOLI, as the Company increased its investment in BOLI commencing in October 2014; 2) $194,000 of additional loan application fee income during the comparative period that reflected higher loan origination activity; and 3) $220,000 growth in inspection fee income reflecting the growth in the mortgage loan portfolio.

Non-Interest Expense

Non-interest expense was $83.8 million in 2016, $62.5 million in 2015, and $61.1 million in 2014. During 2016, non-interest expense increased $21.3 million from 2015. Contributing to the increase was a non-recurring $3.4 million reduction in salaries and employee benefits in 2015 from the curtailment of certain postretirement health benefits (“Curtailment Gain”). Excluding the impact of the Curtailment Gain, non-interest expense would have increased by $17.9 million during 2016. The increase was primarily the result of a one-time, non-cash, non-taxable expense of $11.3 million related to the prepayment of the outstanding balance of the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (“ESOP”) loan by the plan (“ESOP Charge”), in addition to increases of $1.6 million in occupancy and equipment expense, $1.4 million in marketing expense, $1.2 million in data processing expense, $734,000 in consulting expense, and $1.7 million in other operating expenses. The $1.6 million increase in occupancy expense was attributable to new leases related to de novo retail branches and a new corporate office.  The $1.4 million increase in marketing costs was related to deposit gathering initiatives in line with the Company’s growth strategy. The $1.2 million increase in data processing costs was the result of various technology enhancement initiatives related to customer banking services. The $734,000 increase in consulting expense was attributable to new consulting.  During 2015, non-interest expense increased $1.4 million from 2014. Excluding the impact of the Curtailment Gain, non-interest expense would have increased by $4.8 million during the comparative period as a result of higher salaries and employee benefits, increased occupancy and equipment expenses from the accelerated depreciation of some automated teller machine equipment that was expected to be replaced sooner than anticipated, additional marketing expenses tied to both brand recognition and deposit gathering initiatives, and heightened data processing costs associated with both higher loan and deposit processing activities and several technological upgrades.
 
Non-interest expense as a percentage of average assets was 1.31% in 2016, excluding the ESOP Charge, down from 1.41% during in 2015, excluding the Curtailment Gain, which was comparable to 1.42% in 2014.  The decrease during 2016 was primarily due to the $894.3 million of growth in average assets outweighing the growth in non-interest expense during 2016.  The decrease during 2015 was primarily due to the $365.8 million of growth in average assets during the year ended December 31, 2015.

Income Tax Expense

Income tax expense was $60.9 million in 2016, $31.2 million in 2015, and $30.1 million in 2014. During 2016, income tax expense increased $29.7 million from 2015, due primarily to an increase of $57.5 million in pre-tax income during the comparative period.  The $57.5 million increase in pre-tax income was attributable to the $68.2 million gain on sale of real estate, offset by the $11.3 million ESOP Charge that occurred during 2016.  During 2015, income tax expense increased $1.1 million from 2014, due primarily to an increase of $1.6 million in pre-tax income during 2015.

The Company's consolidated tax rate was 39.5% in 2016, excluding the impact of the gain from the sale of real estate and the ESOP Charge, up slightly from 41.1% in 2015 and 40.5% in 2014.

Comparison of Financial Condition at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015

Assets totaled $6.00 billion at December 31, 2016, $972.6 million above their level at December 31, 2015.

Real estate loans increased $937.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2016, primarily due to originations of $1.53 billion of real estate loans (including refinancing of existing loans) and purchased real estate loan participations totaling $157.8 million.  These additions exceeded the $754.6 million of aggregate amortization on such loans (also including refinancing of existing loans).

Cash and due from banks increased $49.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2016, due to the net proceeds of $75.9 million received from the sale of premises during the year, offset by approximately $26.6 million used to fund asset growth and reduce borrowed funds.  During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Bank completed the sale of premises held for sale with a book value of $8.8 million at December 31, 2015 and net proceeds of $75.9 million were realized on the sale.  During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Bank entered into a $12.3 million  agreement to sell Bank premises with an aggregate book value of $1.4 million, which was transferred to held for sale as of December 31, 2016. This sale is currently expected to close in April 2017.

Total liabilities increased $900.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2016.  Retail deposits (due to depositors) increased $1.21 billion and FHLBNY advances declined by $335.6 million during the period.  Please refer to "Part I – Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Liquidity and Capital Resources" for a discussion of the increase in retail deposits and decline in FHLBNY advances during the year ended December 31, 2016. Mortgagor escrow and other deposits increased by $25.9 million during 2016 as a result of growth of the real estate portfolio.

Stockholders' equity increased $71.9 million during the year ended December 31, 2016, due primarily to net income of $72.5 million, an $11.3 million increase related to the ESOP Charge, $3.6 million of equity added from stock option exercises, a $3.3 million aggregate increase related to expense amortization associated with stock benefit plans, and $2.9 million of comprehensive income, that added to the cumulative balance of stockholders' equity.  Partially offsetting these items were $20.6 million in cash dividends paid during the period and $1.8 million related to the distribution of benefit payments reducing the cumulative balance of stockholders’ equity. The decrease in accumulated other comprehensive loss due to $2.9 million of comprehensive income, net of tax, was primarily the result of $1.0 million from changes in pension obligations and $1.8 million from changes in unrealized loss on interest rate swap derivative assets.
 
Loan Portfolio Composition

The Bank’s loan portfolio totaled $5.62 billion at December 31, 2016, consisting primarily of mortgage loans secured by multifamily residential apartment buildings, including buildings organized under a cooperative form of ownership; commercial properties; and one- to four-family residences and individual condominium or cooperative apartments.  Within the loan portfolio, $4.59 billion, or 81.6%, were classified as multifamily residential loans; $958.5 million, or 17.0%, were classified as commercial real estate loans; and $74.0 million, or 1.3%, were classified as one- to four-family residential, including condominium or cooperative apartments.  At December 31, 2016, the Bank’s loan portfolio additionally included $3.4 million in consumer loans, composed of depositor, consumer installment and other loans.
 
The following table sets forth the composition of the Bank’s real estate and other loan portfolios (including loans held for sale) in dollar amounts and percentages at the dates indicated:

   
At December 31,
 
   
2016
   
Percent
of Total
   
2015
   
Percent
of Total
   
2014
   
Percent
of Total
   
2013
   
Percent
of Total
   
2012
   
Percent
of Total
 
Real Estate loans:
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Multifamily residential
 
$
4,592,282
     
81.59
%
 
$
3,752,328
     
80.02
%
 
$
3,292,753
     
80.05
%
 
$
2,917,380
     
78.97
%
 
$
2,671,533
     
76.30
%
Commercial real estate
   
958,459
     
17.03
     
863,184
     
18.41
     
745,463
     
18.12
     
700,606
     
18.96
     
735,224
     
21.00
 
One- to four-family, including condominium and cooperative apartment
   
74,022
     
1.32
     
72,095
     
1.54
     
73,500
     
1.79
     
73,956
     
2.00
     
91,876
     
2.62
 
Construction and land acquisition
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
268
     
0.01
     
476
     
0.01
 
Total real estate loans
   
5,624,763
     
99.94
     
4,687,607
     
99.97
     
4,111,716
     
99.96
     
3,692,210
     
99.94
     
3,499,109
     
99.93
 
Consumer loans:
                                                                               
Depositor loans
   
445
     
0.01
     
557
     
0.01
     
677
     
0.01
     
763
     
0.02
     
712
     
0.02
 
Consumer installment and other
   
2,970
     
0.05
     
1,033
     
0.02
     
1,152
     
0.03
     
1,376
     
0.04
     
1,711
     
0.05
 
Total consumer loans
   
3,415
     
0.06
     
1,590
     
0.03
     
1,829
     
0.04
     
2,139
     
0.06
     
2,423
     
0.07
 
Gross loans
   
5,628,178
     
100.00
%
   
4,689,197
     
100.00
%
   
4,113,545
     
100.00
%
   
3,694,349
     
100.00
%
   
3,501,532
     
100.00
%
Net unearned costs
   
8,244
             
7,579
             
5,695
             
5,170
             
4,836
         
Allowance for loan losses
   
(20,536
)
           
(18,514
)
           
(18,493
)
           
(20,153
)
           
(20,550
)
       
Loans, net
 
$
5,615,886
           
$
4,678,262
           
$
4,100,747
           
$
3,679,366
           
$
3,485,818
         
Loans serviced for others:
                                                                               
One- to four-family, including condominium and cooperative apartment
 
$
3,453
           
$
4,374
           
$
5,215
           
$
6,746
           
$
8,786
         
Multifamily residential
   
17,625
             
18,735
             
19,038
             
240,517
             
353,034
         
Total loans serviced for others
 
$
21,079
           
$
23,109
           
$
24,253
           
$
247,263
           
$
361,820
         

Of the total mortgage loan portfolio outstanding on December 31, 2016, $4.75 billion, or 84.38%, were ARMs and $878.7 million, or 15.62%, were fixed-rate loans.

The following table sets forth the composition of the Bank’s loan portfolios (including loans held for sale) by ARM or fixed-rate repayment type:

   
For the Year Ended December 31,
       
   
2016
   
Percent of
Total
   
2015
   
Percent of
Total
   
2014
   
Percent of
Total
   
2013
   
Percent of
Total
   
2012
   
Percent of
Total
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
ARM
 
$
4,746,112
     
84.38
%
 
$
3,692,014
     
78.73
%
 
$
2,981,135
     
72.50
%
 
$
2,644,032
     
71.61
%
 
$
2,511,198
     
71.77
%
Fixed-rate
   
878,651
     
15.62
     
997,183
     
21.27
     
1,130,581
     
27.50
     
1,048,178
     
28.39
     
987,911
     
28.23
 
Total loans
 
$
5,624,763
     
100.00
%
 
$
4,687,607
     
100.00
%
 
$
4,111,716
     
100.00
%
 
$
3,692,210
     
100.00
%
 
$
3,499,109
     
100.00
%
 
At December 31, 2016, the Bank had $115.2 million of loan commitments that were accepted by the borrowers.  All of these commitments are expected to close during the year ending December 31, 2017.

At December 31, 2016, the Bank’s portfolio of whole loans or loan participations that it originated and sold to other financial institutions with servicing retained totaled $21.1 million, all of which were sold without recourse.

Loan Originations, Purchases, Sales and Servicing

For the year ended December 31, 2016, total loan originations were $1.53 billion.   The following table sets forth the Bank's loan originations (including loans held for sale), sales, purchases and principal repayments for the periods indicated:

   
For the Year Ended December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
Gross loans:
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
At beginning of period
 
$
4,689,197
   
$
4,113,545
   
$
3,694,349
   
$
3,501,532
   
$
3,460,424
 
Real estate loans originated:
                                       
Multifamily residential
   
1,321,242
     
1,098,841
     
748,067
     
872,421
     
942,326
 
Commercial real estate
   
204,720
     
236,320
     
191,944
     
187,202
     
142,418
 
One- to four-family, including condominium and cooperative apartment (1)
   
2,468
     
5,316
     
2,302
     
5,896
     
12,184
 
Equity lines of credit on multifamily residential or commercial properties
   
5,547
     
3,389
     
4,657
     
7,578
     
2,764
 
Construction and land acquisition
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Total mortgage loans originated
   
1,533,977
     
1,343,866
     
946,970
     
1,073,097
     
1,099,692
 
Other loans originated
   
3,073
     
1,334
     
1,263
     
1,354
     
1,414
 
Total loans originated
   
1,537,050
     
1,345,200
     
948,223
     
1,074,451
     
1,101,106
 
Loans purchased
   
157,782
     
99,745
     
225,604
     
52,031
     
30,425
 
Less:
                                       
Principal repayments (including satisfactions and refinances)
   
755,851
     
859,721
     
737,776
     
923,110
     
1,020,525
 
Loans sold (2)
   
-
     
9,572
     
16,865
     
8,087
     
67,593
 
Write down of principal balance for expected loss
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
1,685
     
2,305
 
Loans transferred to OREO
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
783
     
-
 
Gross loans at end of period
 
$
5,628,178
   
$
4,689,197
   
$
4,113,545
   
$
3,694,349
   
$
3,501,532
 
 
(1)
Includes one- to four-family home equity and home improvement loans.
(2)
Includes $9.6 million, $3.9 million, $6.1 million and $30.9 million of note sales on problem loans from portfolio during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Loan Maturity and Repricing

As of December 31, 2016, $4.0 billion, or 70.24% of the loan portfolio was scheduled to mature or reprice within five years.  In addition at December 31, 2016, loans totaling $734.4 million were required to make only monthly interest payments on their outstanding principal balance.  The great majority of these loans commence principal amortization prior to their contractual maturity date.

The following table distributes the Bank's real estate and consumer loan portfolios at December 31, 2016 by the earlier of the maturity or next repricing date.  ARMs are included in the period during which their interest rates are next scheduled to adjust. The table does not include scheduled principal amortization.

   
Real Estate Loans
   
Consumer
Loans
   
Total
 
Amount due to Mature or Reprice During the Year Ending:
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
December 31, 2017
 
$
373,809
   
$
3,415
   
$
377,224
 
December 31, 2018
   
649,592
     
-
     
649,592
 
December 31, 2019
   
886,921
     
-
     
886,921
 
December 31, 2020
   
1,042,586
     
-
     
1,042,586
 
December 31, 2021
   
996,719
     
-
     
996,719
 
Sub-total (within 5 years)
   
3,949,627
     
3,415
     
3,953,042
 
December 31, 2022 and beyond
   
1,675,136
     
-
     
1,675,136
 
TOTAL
 
$
5,624,763
   
$
3,415
   
$
5,628,178
 
 
The following table sets forth the outstanding principal balances of the Bank's real estate and consumer loan portfolios at December 31, 2016 that are due to mature or reprice after December 31, 2017, and whether such loans have fixed or adjustable interest rates:

   
Due after December 31, 2017
 
   
Fixed
   
Adjustable
   
Total
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Real estate loans
 
$
824,086
   
$
4,426,868
   
$
5,250,954
 
Consumer loans
   
-
     
-
     
-
 
Total loans
 
$
824,086
   
$
4,426,868
   
$
5,250,954
 

Asset Quality

Non-accrual Loans

Within the Bank's permanent portfolio, sixteen non-accrual loans (excluding deposit overdraft loans) totaled $4.2 million at December 31, 2016 and sixteen non-accrual loans (excluding deposit overdraft loans) totaled $1.6 million at December 31, 2015. During the year ended December 31, 2016, two non-accrual loans totaling $77,000 were returned to accrual status based upon favorable payment performance, two non-accrual loans totaling $23,000 were charged off, three non-accrual loans totaling $743,000 were fully satisfied according to their contractual terms, and principal amortization of $80,000 was recognized on ten non-accrual loans. These reductions were partially offset by seven loans totaling $3.5 million that were added to non-accrual status during the period.

TDRs

At both December 31, 2016 and 2015, all TDRs were collateralized by real estate that generated rental income.  For TDRs that demonstrated conditions sufficient to warrant accrual status, the present value of the expected net cash flows of the underlying property was utilized as the primary means of determining impairment.  Any shortfall in the present value of the expected net cash flows calculated at each measurement period (typically quarter-end) compared to the present value of the expected net cash flows at the time of the original loan agreement was recognized as either an allocated reserve (in the event that it related to lower expected interest payments) or a charge-off (if related to lower expected principal payments).  For TDRs on non-accrual status, an appraisal of the underlying real estate collateral is deemed the most appropriate measure to utilize when evaluating impairment and any shortfall in valuation from the recorded balance is accounted for through a charge-off.  In the event that either an allocated reserve or a charge-off is recognized on TDRs, the periodic loan loss provision is impacted.

The Company modified one one- to four-family residential loan in a manner that met the criteria of a TDR during the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2016.  There were no loans modified in a manner that met the criteria of a TDR during the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2015.

Impaired Loans

The recorded investment in loans deemed impaired (as defined in Note 4 to the consolidated financial statements) was approximately $11.9 million, consisting of thirteen loans, at December 31, 2016, compared to $9.6 million, consisting of nine loans, at December 31, 2015.  During the year ended December 31, 2016, three impaired loans totaling $954,000 were fully satisfied according to their contractual terms, and principal amortization totaling $256,000 was recognized on eleven impaired loans. These reductions were partially offset by seven loans totaling $3.6 million that were added to impaired status during the period.
 
The following is a reconciliation of non-accrual, TDR, and impaired loans as of the dates indicated:

   
At December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
Non-accrual loans (1) :
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
One- to four-family residential, including condominium and cooperative apartment
 
$
1,012
   
$
1,113
   
$
1,310
   
$
1,242
   
$
938
 
Multifamily residential and residential mixed use real estate
   
2,675
     
287
     
167
     
1,197
     
507
 
Commercial mixed use real estate
   
549
     
-
     
-
     
4,400
     
1,170
 
Commercial real estate
   
-
     
207
     
4,717
     
5,707
     
6,265
 
Consumer
   
1
     
4
     
4
     
3
     
8
 
Non-accrual loans held for sale
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
560
 
Total non-accrual loans
   
4,237
     
1,611
     
6,198
     
12,549
     
9,448
 
Non-accrual one- to four-family and consumer loans deemed homogeneous loans (2)
   
(1,013
)
   
(1,116
)
   
(1,314
)
   
(980
)
   
(1,162
)
TDRs (1) :
                                       
One- to four-family residential, including condominium and cooperative apartment
   
407
     
598
     
605
     
934
     
948
 
Multifamily residential and residential mixed use real estate
   
658
     
696
     
1,105
     
1,148
     
1,953
 
Commercial mixed use real estate
   
4,261
     
4,344
     
4,400
     
-
     
729
 
Commercial real estate
   
3,363
     
3,428
     
8,990
     
16,538
     
41,228
 
Total TDRs
   
8,689
     
9,066
     
15,100
     
18,620
     
44,858
 
Impaired loans
 
$
11,913
   
$
9,561
   
$
19,984
   
$
30,189
   
$
53,144
 
 
(1)
Total non-accrual loans include some loans that were modified in a manner that met the criteria for a TDR. There were no non-accruing TDRs at December 31, 2016.  There were non-accruing TDRs which totaled $207,000, $4.7 million, $5.7 million, and $6.3 million at December 31, 2015, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively, which are included in the non-accrual loans total.
(2)
Smaller balance homogeneous loans, such as condominium or cooperative apartment and one-to four-family residential real estate loans with balances less than or equal to the Fannie Mae ("FNMA") conforming loan limits for high-cost areas such as the Bank's primary lending area (“FNMA Limits”) and consumer loans, are collectively evaluated for impairment, and accordingly, not separately identified for impairment disclosures.

OREO

Property acquired by the Bank, or a subsidiary, as a result of foreclosure on a mortgage loan or a deed in lieu of foreclosure is classified as OREO.  Upon entering OREO status, the Bank obtains a current appraisal on the property and reassesses the likely realizable value (a.k.a. fair value) of the property quarterly thereafter.  OREO is carried at the lower of the fair value or book balance, with any write downs recognized through a provision recorded in non-interest expense.  Only the appraised value, or either contractual or formal marketed values that fall below the appraised value, is used when determining the likely realizable value of OREO at each reporting period.  The Bank typically seeks to dispose of OREO properties in a timely manner.  As a result, OREO properties have generally not warranted subsequent independent appraisals.

There were no OREO properties as of December 31, 2016.  OREO properties totaled of $148,000 at December 31, 2015. The Bank did not recognize any provisions for losses on OREO properties during the years ended December 31, 2016 or 2015. The Bank wrote off the balance of one OREO property which totaled $18 during the year ended December 31, 2016.

The following table sets forth information regarding non-accrual loans and certain other non-performing assets (including OREO) at the dates indicated:

   
At December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Total non-accrual loans
 
$
4,237
   
$
1,611
   
$
6,198
   
$
12,549
   
$
9,448
 
Non-performing assets:
                                       
Non-performing pooled trust preferred securities ("TRUP CDOs")
   
1,270
     
1,236
     
904
     
898
     
892
 
OREO
   
-
     
148
     
18
     
18
     
-
 
Total non-performing assets
   
5, 507
     
2,995
     
7,120
     
13,465
     
10,340
 
Ratios:
                                       
Total non-accrual loans to total loans
   
0.08
%
   
0.03
%
   
0.15
%
   
0.34
%
   
0.25
%
Total non-performing assets to total assets
   
0.09
     
0.06
     
0.16
     
0.33
     
0.26
 
 
Other Potential Problem Loans

(i)   Accruing Loans 90 Days or More Past Due
 
The Bank continued accruing interest on four real estate loans with an aggregate outstanding balance of $3.1 million at December 31, 2016, and twelve real estate loans with an aggregate outstanding balance of $4.5 million at December 31, 2015, all of which were 90 days or more past due on their respective contractual maturity dates.  These loans continued to make monthly payments consistent with their initial contractual amortization schedule exclusive of the balloon payments due at maturity.  These loans were well secured and were expected to be refinanced, and, therefore, remained on accrual status and were deemed performing assets at the dates indicated above.
 
(ii)  Loans Delinquent 30 to 89 Days
 
The Bank had three real estate loans totaling $1.9 million that were delinquent between 30 and 89 days at December 31, 2016, a net decrease of approximately $1.1 million compared to six such loans totaling $3.0 million at December 31, 2015. The 30 to 89 day delinquency levels fluctuate monthly, and are generally considered a less accurate indicator of near-term credit quality trends than non-accrual loans.
 
(iii) Temporary Loan Modifications
 
There were no temporary modifications (modifications that were either sufficiently minor or temporary in nature so as to not meet the criteria of a TDR) entered into during the years ended December 31, 2016 or 2015. Temporary modifications previously entered into performed according to their contractual terms during the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015.
 
Allowance for Loan Losses
 
The following table sets forth the Bank's allowance for loan losses allocated by underlying collateral type and the percent of each to total loans at the dates indicated.  Any allocated allowance associated with loans both deemed impaired and internally graded as Special Mention is reflected on the impaired loan line. Please refer to Notes 4 and 5 to the Company's consolidated audited financial statements for a description of impaired, substandard, special mention and pass graded loans.

     
At December 31,
  
2016
   
2015
   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
   
Allocated
Amount
   
Percent
of Loans
in Each
Category
to Total
Loans
   
Allocated
Amount
   
Percent
of Loans
in Each
Category
to Total
Loans
   
Allocated
Amount
   
Percent
of Loans
in Each
Category
to Total
Loans
   
Allocated
Amount
   
Percent
of Loans
in Each
Category
to Total
Loans
   
Allocated
Amount
   
Percent
of Loans
in Each
Category
to Total
Loans
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Impaired loans
 
$
-
     
0.21
%
 
$
-
     
0.20
%
 
$
19
     
0.49
%
 
$
1,771
     
0.82
%
 
$
520
     
1.52
%
Substandard loans not deemed impaired (1)
   
n/a
     
n/a
     
348
     
0.37
     
371
     
0.44
     
53
     
0.15
     
795
     
0.44
 
Special Mention loans (1)
   
n/a
     
n/a
     
88
     
0.37
     
228
     
0.81
     
185
     
0.92
     
145
     
0.54
 
Pass graded loans:
                                                                               
Multifamily residential
   
16,555
     
81.56
     
13,942
     
79.69
     
13,600
     
79.38
     
13,743
     
78.49
     
14,118
     
75.99
 
Commercial real estate
   
3,816
     
16.86
     
3,902
     
17.88
     
4,156
     
17.15
     
4,189
     
17.81
     
4,750
     
19.08
 
One-to four- family including condominium and cooperative apartment
   
145
     
1.31
     
214
     
1.46
     
95
     
1.68
     
188
     
1.75
     
195
     
2.36
 
Construction and land acquisition
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Consumer
   
20
     
0.06
     
20
     
0.03
     
24
     
0.05
     
24
     
0.06
     
27
     
0.07
 
Total
 
$
20,536
     
100.00
%
 
$
18,514
     
100.00
%
 
$
18,493
     
100.00
%
 
$
20,153
     
100.00
%
 
$
20,550
     
100.00
%
 
(1)
During the year ended December 31, 2016, the allowance methodology was refined such that there was not a component for Substandard and Special Mention loans. All non-impaired loans as of December 31, 2016 were considered Pass graded loans.
 
The following table sets forth information about the Bank's allowance for loan losses at or for the dates indicated:

   
At or for the Year Ended December 31,
2016
   
2015
   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
(Dollars in Thousands)
Total loans outstanding at end of period (1)
 
$
5,636,422
   
$
4,696,776
   
$
4,119,240
   
$
3,699,519
   
$
3,506,368
 
Average total loans outstanding during the period (1)
   
5,212,729
     
4,328,977
     
3,964,520
     
3,606,039
     
3,402,838
 
Allowance balance at end of period
   
20,536
     
18,514
     
18,493
     
20,153
     
20,550
 
Allowance for loan losses to total loans at end of period
   
0.36
%
   
0.39
%
   
0.45
%
   
0.54
%
   
0.59
%
Allowance for loan losses to total  non-performing loans at end of period
   
484.68
     
1,149.22
     
298.37
     
160.59
     
231.21
 
Allowance for loan losses to total non-performing loans and TDRs at end of period
   
158.87
     
170.10
     
71.09
     
64.66
     
42.58
 
Ratio of net charge-offs to average loans outstanding during the period
 
NM
     
(0.03
)
   
(0.01
)
   
0.02
     
0.11
 
 
(1)
Total loans represent gross loans (including loans held for sale), inclusive of deferred loan fees and discounts.
 
NM = not meaningful
 
Reserve for Loan Commitments
 
At December 31, 2016, the Bank maintained a reserve of $25,000 associated with unfunded loan commitments accepted by the borrower.  This reserve is determined based upon the outstanding volume of loan commitments at each period end.  Any increases or reductions in this reserve are recognized in periodic non-interest expense.
 
Investment Activities
 
The following table sets forth the amortized/historical cost and fair value of the total portfolio of investment securities and MBS by accounting classification and type of security that were owned by either the Bank or Holding Company at the dates indicated:
 
 
At December 31,
 
2016
   
2015
   
2014
Amortized/
Historical
Cost (1)
   
Fair
Value
   
Amortized/
Historical
Cost (1)
   
Fair
Value
   
Amortized/
Historical
Cost (1)
   
Fair
Value
MBS
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Available-for-Sale:
                                   
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("FHLMC") pass through certificates
 
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
17,080
   
$
18,145
 
FNMA pass through certificates
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
5,763
     
6,125
 
Government National Mortgage Association (“GNMA”) pass through certificates
   
360
     
372
     
418
     
431
     
1,311
     
1,337
 
Private issuer MBS
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
449
     
455
 
Agency issued Collateralized Mortgage Obligations ("CMOs")
   
3,247
     
3,186
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Private issuer CMOs
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
343
     
347
 
Total MBS available-for-sale
   
3,607
     
3,558
     
418
     
431
     
24,946
     
26,409
 
                                                 
INVESTMENT SECURITIES
                                               
TRUP CDOs held -to- maturity
   
5,378
     
7,296
     
5,242
     
7,051
     
5,367
     
6,263
 
Total investment securities held-to-maturity
   
5,378
     
7,296
     
5,242
     
7,051
     
5,367
     
6,263
 
Available-for-Sale:
                                               
Federal agency obligations
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
70
     
70
 
Mutual funds
   
4,011
     
3,895
     
3,990
     
3,756
     
3,860
     
3,736
 
Total investment securities available -for- sale
   
4,011
     
3,895
     
3,990
     
3,756
     
3,930
     
3,806
 
Trading:
                                               
Mutual funds
   
7,015
     
6,953
     
10,390
     
10,201
     
8,640
     
8,559
 
Total trading securities
   
7,015
     
6,953
     
10,390
     
10,201
     
8,640
     
8,559
 
TOTAL INVESTMENT SECURITIES AND MBS
 
$
20,011
   
$
21,702
   
$
20,040
   
$
21,439
   
$
42,883
   
$
45,037
 
 
(1)
Amount is net of cumulative credit related Other than Temporary Impairment (“OTTI”) on TRUP CDOs held-to-maturity totaling $8.6 million, $8.7 million and $9.0 million at December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 respectively.
 
MBS

The Company's consolidated investment in MBS totaled $3, 558 at December 31, 2016, all of which were owned by the Holding Company and were comprised of adjustable rate, pass-through securities guaranteed by GNMA.  The average duration of these securities was 1.0 year (one-year ARM securities) as of December 31, 2016.

The Company typically classifies MBS as available-for-sale in recognition of the prepayment uncertainty associated with these securities, and carries them at fair market value.  The fair value of MBS available-for-sale was $49,000 below their amortized cost at December 31, 2016.

The following table sets forth activity in the MBS portfolio for the periods indicated:

   
For the Year Ended December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
   
2014
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Amortized cost at beginning of period
 
$
418
   
$
24,946
   
$
29,962
 
(Sales) Purchases, net
   
3,267
     
(22,919
)
   
875
 
Principal repayments
   
(59
)
   
(1,602
)
   
(5,863
)
Premium amortization, net
   
(19
)
   
(7
)
   
(28
)
Amortized cost at end of period
 
$
3,607
   
$
418
   
$
24,946
 

The following table presents the amortized cost, fair value and weighted average yield of the Company's consolidated MBS at December 31, 2016, categorized by remaining period to contractual maturity:

 
Amortized
Cost
   
Fair
Value
   
Weighted
Average
Yield
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Due within 1 year
 
$
-
   
$
-
     
-
%
Due after 1 year but within 5 years
   
3,247
     
3,186
     
4.28
 
Due after 5 years but within 10 years
   
-
     
-
     
-
 
Due after ten years
   
360
     
371
     
2. 03
 
Total
 
$
3,607
   
$
3,558
     
4.06
%

With respect to MBS, the entire carrying amount of each security at December 31, 2016 is reflected in the above table in the maturity period that includes the final security payment date and, accordingly, no effect has been given to periodic repayments or possible prepayments.  As mentioned previously, the investment policies of both the Holding Company and the Bank call for the purchase of only priority tranches when investing in MBS.  As a result, the weighted average duration of the Company's MBS approximated 1.0 year as of December 31, 2016 when giving consideration to anticipated repayments or possible prepayments, which is significantly less than their weighted average maturity.

Corporate Debt Obligations

As of December 31, 2016, the Bank’s investment in corporate debt obligations was comprised solely of seven TRUP CDOs with an aggregate remaining amortized cost of $15.3 million (based upon their purchase cost basis) that were secured primarily by the preferred debt obligations of pools of U.S. banks (with a small portion secured by debt obligations of insurance companies).  All seven securities were designated as held-to-maturity at December 31, 2016.

At December 31, 2016, four of the seven securities had previously recognized OTTI charges, the most recent of which occurred during the year ended December 31, 2012.  The aggregate OTTI charge recognized on these securities was $9.2 million at December 31, 2016, of which $8.6 million was determined to be attributable to credit related factors and $544,000 was determined to be attributable to non-credit related factors.

At December 31, 2016, the remaining aggregate amortized cost of TRUP CDOs that could be subject to future OTTI charges through earnings was $6.7 million.  Of this total, unrealized losses of $1.3 million have already been recognized as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss.
 
Equity Investments

The Holding Company's investment in mutual funds (primarily equity mutual funds) totaled $10.8 million at December 31, 2016, of which $3.9 million was classified as available for sale, and $6.9 million was classified as trading.  At December 31, 2016, the aggregate fair value of the available for sale mutual fund investments was $116,000 below their cost basis, and the aggregate fair value of the mutual fund investments classified as trading was $62,000 below their cost basis.  The reduction of fair value below the cost basis of the available for sale equity investments was deemed temporary in nature as of December 31, 2016.

Sources of Funds

Deposits

The following table sets forth the distribution of the Bank's deposit accounts and the related weighted average interest rates at the dates indicated:
 
  
At December 31, 2016
   
At December 31, 2015
   
At December 31, 2014
  
Amount
   
Percent
of Total
Deposits
   
Weighted
Average
Rate
   
Amount
   
Percent
of Total
Deposits
   
Weighted
Average
Rate
   
Amount
   
Percent
of Total
Deposits
   
Weighted
Average
Rate
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Savings accounts
 
$
366,921
     
8.3
%
   
0.05
%
 
$
368,671
     
11.6
%
   
0.05
%
 
$
372,753
     
14.0
%
   
0.05
%
CDs
   
1,048,465
     
23.9
     
1.47
     
858,847
     
27.0
     
1.44
     
926,318
     
34.8
     
1.43
 
Money market accounts
   
2,576,081
     
58.6
     
0.86
     
1,618,617
     
50.8
     
0.81
     
1,094,698
     
41.2
     
0.61
 
Interest bearing checking accounts
   
106,525
     
2.4
     
0.08
     
78,994
     
2.5
     
0.08
     
78,430
     
2.9
     
0.08
 
Non-interest bearing checking accounts
   
297,434
     
6.8
     
-
     
259,181
     
8.1
     
-
     
187,593
     
7.1
     
-
 
Totals
 
$
4,395,426
     
100.0
%
   
0.86
%
 
$
3,184,310
     
100.0
%
   
0.81
%
 
$
2,659,792
     
100.0
%
   
0.76
%

The following table presents the deposit activity of the Bank for the periods indicated:

 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2016
   
2015
   
2014
(Dollars in Thousands)
Deposits
 
$
8,674,460
   
$
6,306,645
   
$
4,052,651
 
Withdrawals
   
7,495,718
     
5,805,132
     
3,919,596
 
Deposits greater than Withdrawals
 
$
1,178,742
   
$
501,513
   
$
133,055
 
Interest credited
   
32,374
     
23,005
     
19,591
 
Total increase in deposits
 
$
1,211,116
   
$
524,518
   
$
152,646
 

The weighted average maturity of the Bank's CDs at December 31, 2016 was 15.4   months, compared to 19.9 months at December 31, 2015.  The following table presents, by interest rate ranges, the dollar amount of CDs outstanding at the dates indicated and the period to maturity of the CDs outstanding at December 31, 2016:

   
Period to Maturity at December 31, 2016
         
Total at December 31,
 
 
 
Interest Rate Range
 
One Year
or Less
   
Over One
Year to
Three
Years
   
Over
Three
Years to
Five
Years
   
Over Five
Years
   
2016
   
2015
   
2014
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
1.00% and below
 
$
127,957
   
$
31,410
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
159,367
   
$
230,982
   
$
345,955
 
1.01% to 2.00%
   
278,818
     
369,690
     
56,870
     
2,650
     
708,028
     
425,120
     
310,993
 
2.01% to 3.00%
   
51,779
     
108,387
     
559
     
-
     
160,725
     
183,617
     
201,215
 
3.01% and above
   
1,246
     
19,056
     
-
     
43
     
20,345
     
19,128
     
68,155
 
Total
 
$
459,800
   
$
528,543
   
$
57,429
   
$
2,693
   
$
1,048,465
   
$
858,847
   
$
926,318
 
 
At December 31, 2016, the Bank had $597.0 million in CDs with a minimum denomination of one-hundred thousand dollars as follows:
 
 
Maturity Date
 
Amount
   
Weighted
Average Rate
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Within three months
 
$
108,459
     
1.32
%
After three but within six months
   
94,988
     
1.39
 
After six but within twelve months
   
52,639
     
1.17
 
After 12 months
   
340,927
     
1.66
 
Total
 
$
597,013
     
1.51
%

The Bank is authorized to accept brokered deposits up to an aggregate limit of $120.0 million.  At December 31, 2016, brokered deposits consisted of $42.7 million, which include purchased CDARS deposits.  At December 31, 2015, total brokered deposits consisted solely of the $2.0 million purchased CDARS deposits.

Borrowings

The Bank's total borrowing line with FHLBNY equaled at least $2.10 billion at December 31, 2016.  The Bank had $831.1 million of FHLBNY advances outstanding at December 31, 2016, and $1.17 billion at December 31, 2015.  The Bank maintained sufficient collateral, as defined by the FHLBNY (principally in the form of real estate loans), to secure such advances.

The following table presents information for FHLBNY advances as of the periods indicated:

      
At or for the Year Ended December 31,
2016
   
2015
   
2014
Amount
   
Average
Cost
   
Amount
   
Average
Cost
   
Amount
   
Average
Cost
(Dollars in Thousands)
Balance outstanding at end of period
 
$
831,125
     
1.57
%
 
$
1,166,725
     
1.32
%
 
$
1,173,725
     
1.74
%
Weighted average balance outstanding during the period
   
972,179
     
1.45
     
1,019,020
     
1.65
     
1,039,203
     
2.28
 
Maximum balance outstanding at month end during period
   
1,277,125
             
1,166,725
             
1,173,725
         

The Company had no Securities Sold Under Agreements to Repurchase outstanding at December 31, 2016 or 2015.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

The Board of Directors of the Bank has approved a liquidity policy that it reviews and updates at least annually. Senior management is responsible for implementing the policy.  The Bank's Asset Liability Committee (“ALCO”) is responsible for general oversight and strategic implementation of the policy and management of the appropriate departments are designated responsibility for implementing any strategies established by ALCO.  On a daily basis, appropriate senior management receives a current cash position report and one-week forecast to ensure that all short-term obligations are timely satisfied and that adequate liquidity exists to fund future activities.  Reports detailing the Bank's liquidity reserves and forecasted cash flows are presented to appropriate senior management on a monthly basis, and the Board of Directors at each of its meetings. In addition on a monthly basis, a twelve-month liquidity forecast is presented to ALCO in order to assess potential future liquidity concerns.  A forecast of cash flow data for the upcoming 12 months is presented to the Board of Directors on an annual basis.

The Bank's primary sources of funding for its lending and investment activities include deposits, loan and MBS payments, investment security principal and interest payments and advances from the FHLBNY.  The Bank may also sell selected multifamily residential, mixed use or one to four family residential real estate loans to private sector secondary market purchasers, and has in the past sold such loans to FNMA.  The Company may additionally issue debt under appropriate circumstances.  Although maturities and scheduled amortization of loans and investments are predictable sources of funds, deposit flows and prepayments on mortgage loans and MBS are influenced by interest rates, economic conditions and competition.
 
The Bank gathers deposits in direct competition with commercial banks, savings banks and brokerage firms, many among the largest in the nation.  It must additionally compete for deposit monies against the stock and bond markets, especially during periods of strong performance in those arenas.  The Bank's deposit flows are affected primarily by the pricing and marketing of its deposit products compared to its competitors, as well as the market performance of depositor investment alternatives such as the U.S. bond or equity markets.  To the extent that the Bank is responsive to general market increases or declines in interest rates, its deposit flows should not be materially impacted.   However, favorable performance of the equity or bond markets could adversely impact the Bank’s deposit flows.

Retail branch and Internet banking deposits increased $1. 21 billion during the year ended December 31, 2016, compared to an increase of $524.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2015.  Within deposits, core deposits (i.e., non-CDs) increased $1. 02 billion during the year ended December 31, 2016 and $592.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2015.  These increases were due to both successful gathering efforts tied to promotional money market offerings as well as the company’s growth strategy for the year ended December 31, 2016.  CDs increased by $189.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2016 as a result of promotional offerings during the period, and declined $67.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2015.  The reduction during the year ended December 31, 2015 reflected attrition of promotional CDs that matured, as the Bank de-emphasized gathering and retaining CDs during the period, focusing instead on gathering and retaining money market and checking deposits.
 
The Bank decreased its outstanding FHLBNY advances by $335.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2016, reflecting both the utilization of deposit inflows to fund asset growth and deployment of the cash proceeds from the real estate sale during the year ended December 31, 2016.  The Bank decreased its outstanding FHLBNY advances by $7.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2015, reflecting both the utilization of deposit inflows to fund asset growth and operational needs, as well as the prepayment of a $25.0 million, 4.27% fixed-rate advance due to mature in 2016. A prepayment expense of $1.4 million was recognized on the prepayment of the $25.0 million advance.

During the year ended December 31, 2016, principal repayments totaled $754.6 million on real estate loans (including refinanced loans) compared to $859.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2015.  The decrease resulted primarily from a lower prepayment volume.

There were no sales of registered mutual funds or MBS available-for-sale during the year ended December 31, 2016.  Aggregate proceeds from the sales of registered mutual funds and MBS available-for-sale totaled $26.4 million during the year ended December 31, 2015, reflecting the liquidation of virtually all outstanding registered mutual funds and MBS available for sale in March 2015 in order to offset the cash disbursement and expense associated with the prepayment of the $25.0 million FHLBNY advance noted previously in this section. A net gain of $1.4 million was recognized on these sales.

In the event that the Bank should require funds beyond its ability or desire to generate them internally, an additional source of funds is available through use of its borrowing line at the FHLBNY.  At December 31, 2016, the Bank had an additional potential borrowing capacity of $1. 27 billion through the FHLBNY, subject to customary minimum common stock ownership requirements imposed by the FHLBNY ( i.e. , 4.5% of the Bank's outstanding FHLBNY borrowings).
 
The Bank is subject to minimum regulatory capital requirements imposed by its primary federal regulator.  As a general matter, these capital requirements are based on the amount and composition of an institution's assets. At December 31, 2016, the Bank was in compliance with all applicable regulatory capital requirements and was considered "well-capitalized" for all regulatory purposes.

The Company generally utilizes its liquidity and capital resources primarily to fund the origination of real estate loans, the purchase of mortgage-backed and other securities, the repurchase of Common Stock into treasury, the payment of quarterly cash dividends to holders of the Common Stock and the payment of quarterly interest to holders of its outstanding trust preferred debt. During the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, real estate loan originations totaled $1.53 billion and $1.34 billion, respectively.  The increase from the year ended December 31, 2015 to the year ended December 31, 2016 reflected the Company's election to compete more aggressively for new loans as a result of a more aggressive loan growth strategy pursued during the year ended December 31, 2016. Security purchases were de-emphasized during the years ended both December 31, 2016 and 2015, as the yield offered on highly graded investment securities was not deemed sufficiently attractive.
 
The Holding Company did not repurchase any of its Common Stock during the year ended December 31, 2016.  The Holding Company repurchased 20,000 shares of its Common Stock during the year ended December 31, 2015 at an aggregate cost of $300,000.  As of December 31, 2016, up to 1,104,549 shares remained available for purchase under authorized share purchase programs.  Based upon the $20.10 per share closing price of its Common Stock as of December 30, 2016, the Holding Company would utilize $22.2 million in order to purchase all of the remaining authorized shares.
 
During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Holding Company paid $20.6 million in cash dividends on its Common Stock, up from $20.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2015, reflecting an increase of 480,076 weighted average common shares outstanding shares from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2016.
 
Contractual Obligations

The Bank has outstanding at any time significant borrowings in the form of FHLBNY advances, as well as fixed interest obligations on CDs.  The Holding Company also has $70.7 million of trust preferred borrowings due to mature in April 2034, which became callable at any time after April 2009.  The Holding Company currently does not intend to call this debt. The Bank is obligated under leases for rental payments on certain of its branches and equipment.

The table below summarizes contractual obligations for CDs, borrowings and lease obligations at December 31, 2016:

   
Payments Due By Period
 
   
CDs
   
Weighted
Average
Rate
   
Borrowings
   
Weighted
Average
Rate
   
Operating
Lease
Obligations
 
Less than one year
 
$
459,800
     
1.23
%
 
$
502,075
     
1.53
%
 
$
5,327
 
One year to three years
   
528,543
     
1.65
     
223,250
     
1.54
     
12,202
 
Over three years to five years
   
57,429
     
1.64
     
105,800
     
1.85
     
11,886
 
Over five years
   
2,693
     
1.64
     
70,680
     
7.00
     
30,783
 
Total
 
$
1,048,465
     
1.47
%
 
$
901,805
     
2.00
%
 
$
60,198
 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

As part of its loan origination business, the Bank generally has outstanding commitments to extend credit to third parties, which are granted pursuant to its regular underwriting standards.  Available lines of credit may not be drawn on or may expire prior to funding, in whole or in part, and amounts are not estimates of future cash flows.

The following table presents off-balance sheet arrangements as of December 31, 2016:

   
Less than
One Year
   
One Year to
Three Years
   
Over Three
Years to Five
Years
   
Over Five
Years
   
Total
 
Credit Commitments:
                             
Available lines of credit
 
$
38,737
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
38,737
 
Other loan commitments
   
115,216
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
115,216
 
Total Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
 
$
153,953
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
153,953
 

Impact of Inflation and Changing Prices

The consolidated financial statements and notes thereto presented herein have been prepared in accordance with GAAP, which requires the measurement of financial position and operating results in terms of historical dollars without considering the changes in the relative purchasing power of money over time due to inflation. The impact of inflation is reflected in the increased costs of operations. Unlike industrial companies, nearly all of the Company's consolidated assets and liabilities are monetary in nature. As a result, interest rates have a greater impact on the Company's consolidated performance than do the effects of general levels of inflation. Interest rates do not necessarily fluctuate in the same direction or to the same extent as the price of goods and services.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

For a discussion of the impact of recently issued accounting standards, please see Note 1 to the Company's consolidated financial statements that commence on page F-69.
 
Item 7A.   Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

As a depository financial institution, the Bank's primary source of market risk is interest rate volatility.  Fluctuations in interest rates will ultimately impact the level of interest income recorded on, and the market value of, a significant portion of the Bank's assets.  Fluctuations in interest rates will also ultimately impact the level of interest expense recorded on, and the market value of, a significant portion of the Bank's liabilities.  In addition, the Bank's real estate loan portfolio, concentrated primarily within the NYC metropolitan area, is subject to risks associated with the local economy.

Real estate loans, the largest component of the Bank's interest earning assets, traditionally derive their interest rates primarily from either the five- or seven-year constant maturity Treasury index.  As a result, the Bank's interest earning assets are most sensitive to these benchmark interest rates. Since the majority of the Bank's interest bearing liabilities mature within one year, its interest bearing liabilities are most sensitive to fluctuations in short-term interest rates.

Neither the Holding Company nor the Bank is subject to foreign currency exchange or commodity price risk.  In addition, the Company engaged in no hedging transactions utilizing derivative instruments (such as interest rate swaps and caps) or embedded derivative instruments that required bifurcation during the years ended December 31, 2016 or 2015.  In the future, the Company may, with appropriate Board approval, engage in hedging transactions utilizing derivative instruments.  Trading securities owned by the Company were nominal at December 31, 2016 and 2015.
 
Since a majority of the Company's consolidated interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities are located at the Bank, virtually all of the interest rate risk exposure exists at the Bank level.  As a result, all of the significant interest rate risk management procedures are performed at the Bank level.  The Bank's interest rate risk management strategy is designed to limit the volatility of net interest income and preserve capital over a broad range of interest rate movements and has the following three primary components:

Assets.   The Bank's largest single asset type is the adjustable-rate multifamily residential loan. Multifamily residential loans typically carry shorter average terms to maturity than one- to four-family residential loans, thus significantly reducing the overall level of interest rate risk.  Approximately 95% and 94% of multifamily residential loans originated by the Bank during the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, were adjustable rate, with repricing typically occurring after five or seven years.   In addition, the Bank has sought to include in its portfolio various types of adjustable-rate one- to four-family loans and adjustable and floating-rate investment securities, with repricing terms generally of three years or less.  At December 31, 2016, adjustable-rate real estate loans totaled $4.75 billion, or 79.03% of total assets.  At December 31, 2015, adjustable-rate real estate loans totaled $3.69 billion, or 73.4% of total assets.

Deposit Liabilities.  As a traditional community-based savings bank, the Bank is largely dependent upon its base of competitively priced core deposits to provide stability on the liability side of the balance sheet.  The Bank has retained many loyal customers over the years through a combination of quality service, convenience, and a stable and experienced staff. Core deposits at December 31, 2016 were $3.35 billion, or 76.1% of total deposits. The balance of CDs as of December 31, 2016 was $1.05 billion, or 23.9% of total deposits, of which $459.8 million, or 43.9% of total CDs, was to mature within one year.  The weighted average maturity of the Bank's CDs at December 31, 2016 was 15.4   months, compared to 19.9 months at December 31, 2015.  During the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Bank generally priced its CDs in an effort to encourage the extension of the average maturities of deposit liabilities beyond one year.

Wholesale Funds .  The Bank is a member of the FHLBNY, which provided the Bank with a borrowing line of up to $2.10 billion at December 31, 2016.   The Bank borrows from the FHLBNY for various purposes.  At December 31, 2016, the Bank had outstanding advances of $831.1 million from the FHLBNY, all of which were secured by a blanket lien on the Bank's loan portfolio.  Wholesale funding provides the Bank opportunities to extend the overall duration of its interest bearing liabilities, thus helping manage interest rate risk.

At December 31, 2016, the Company had $90.0 million of callable borrowings outstanding, with a weighted average maturity of 0.7 years.  Since the weighted average cost of these $90.0 million of borrowings was 3.87% as of December 31, 2016 (above current market rates), they are not anticipated to be called in the near term.
 
Interest Rate Risk Exposure Analysis

Economic Value of Equity ("EVE") Analysis

In accordance with agency regulatory guidelines, the Bank simulates the impact of interest rate volatility upon EVE using several interest rate scenarios.  EVE is the difference between the present value of the expected future cash flows of the Bank’s assets and liabilities and the value of any off-balance sheet items, such as firm commitments to originate loans, or derivatives, if applicable.

Traditionally, the fair value of fixed-rate instruments fluctuates inversely with changes in interest rates.  Increases in interest rates thus result in decreases in the fair value of interest-earning assets, which could adversely affect the Company's consolidated results of operations in the event they were to be sold, or, in the case of interest-earning assets classified as available-for-sale, reduce the Company's consolidated stockholders' equity, if retained.  The changes in the value of assets and liabilities due to fluctuations in interest rates measure the interest rate sensitivity of those assets and liabilities.

In order to measure the Bank’s sensitivity to changes in interest rates, EVE is calculated under market interest rates prevailing at a given quarter-end ("Pre-Shock Scenario"), and under various other interest rate scenarios ("Rate Shock Scenarios") representing immediate, permanent, parallel shifts in the term structure of interest rates from the actual term structure observed in the Pre-Shock Scenario.  An increase in the EVE is considered favorable, while a decline is considered unfavorable.  The changes in EVE between the Pre-Shock Scenario and various Rate Shock Scenarios due to fluctuations in interest rates reflect the interest rate sensitivity of the Bank’s assets, liabilities, and off-balance sheet items that are included in the EVE.  Management reports the EVE results to the Bank's Board of Directors on a quarterly basis. The report compares the Bank's estimated Pre-Shock Scenario EVE to the estimated EVEs calculated under the various Rate Shock Scenarios.

The calculated EVEs incorporate some asset and liability values derived from the Bank’s valuation model, such as those for mortgage loans and time deposits, and some asset and liability values provided by reputable independent sources, such as values for the Bank's MBS and CMO portfolios, as well as all borrowings.  The Bank's valuation model makes various estimates regarding cash flows from principal repayments on loans and deposit decay rates at each level of interest rate change.  The Bank's estimates for loan repayment levels are influenced by the recent history of prepayment activity in its loan portfolio, as well as the interest rate composition of the existing portfolio, especially in relation to the existing interest rate environment.  In addition, the Bank considers the amount of fee protection inherent in the loan portfolio when estimating future repayment cash flows.  Regarding deposit decay rates, the Bank tracks and analyzes the decay rate of its deposits over time, with the assistance of a reputable third party, and over various interest rate scenarios.  Such results are utilized in determining estimates of deposit decay rates in the valuation model.  The Bank also generates a series of spot discount rates that are integral to the valuation of the projected monthly cash flows of its assets and liabilities.  The Bank's valuation model employs discount rates that it considers representative of prevailing market rates of interest, with appropriate adjustments it believes are suited to the heterogeneous characteristics of the Bank’s various asset and liability portfolios.  No matter the care and precision with which the estimates are derived, however, actual cash flows could differ significantly from the Bank's estimates, resulting in significantly different EVE calculations.

The analysis that follows presents, as of December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the estimated EVE at both the Pre-Shock Scenario and the +200 Basis Point Rate Shock Scenario.   The analysis additionally presents the percentage change in EVE from the Pre-Shock Scenario to the +200 Basis Point Rate Shock Scenario at both December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015.

   
At December 31, 2016
   
At December 31, 2015
 
   
EVE
   
Dollar
Change
   
Percentage
Change
   
EVE
   
Dollar
Change
   
Percentage
Change
 
Rate Shock Scenario
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
+ 200 Basis Points
 
$
508,155
   
$
(66,494
)
   
-11.6
%
 
$
515,779
   
$
(63,058
)
   
-12.2
%
Pre-Shock Scenario
   
574,649
     
-
     
-
     
578,837
     
-
     
-
 
 
The Bank’s Pre-Shock Scenario EVE decreased from $578.8 million at December 31, 2015 to $574.6 million at December 31, 2016.  The factors contributing to the less favorable valuation at December 31, 2016 included a decrease in the value of the Bank's real estate loans and an increase in the value of the core deposit liability. The less favorable valuation of real estate loans resulted primarily from a decline in portfolio rate from December 31, 2015 to December 31, 2016, due to amortization and satisfactions of loans carrying above market rates.  The increase in the value of the Bank's core deposit liability reflected growth in higher rate promotional money market accounts during the year ended December 31, 2016.
 
The Bank’s EVE in the +200 basis point Rate Shock Scenario decreased from $515.8 million at December 31, 2015 to $508.2 million at December 31, 2016.  The factor contributing to the less favorable valuation included the previously noted decrease in the value of the Bank’s real estate loans, partially offset by a more favorable valuation of the core deposit liability from December 31, 2015 to December 31, 2016, as the Bank anticipates a longer repricing lag on its money market accounts.

Income Simulation Analysis

As of the end of each quarterly period, the Bank also monitors the impact of interest rate changes through a net interest income simulation model.  This model estimates the impact of interest rate changes on the Bank's net interest income over forward-looking periods typically not exceeding 36 months (a considerably shorter period than measured through the EVE analysis).  Management reports the net interest income simulation results to the Bank's Board of Directors on a quarterly basis. The following table discloses the estimated changes to the Bank's net interest income over the 12-month period ending December 31, 2016 assuming instantaneous changes in interest rates for the given Rate Shock Scenarios:

Instantaneous Change in Interest rate of:
 
Percentage
Change in Net
Interest
Income
 
+ 200 Basis Points
   
(11.7
)%
+ 100 Basis Points
   
(4.5
)
100 Basis Points
   
11.3
 

Item 8.   Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

For the Company's consolidated financial statements, see index on page F- 63 .
 
Item 9.   Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

None.

Item 9A.   Controls and Procedures

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Management of the Company, with the participation of its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Accounting Officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness as of December 31, 2016, of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15(d)-15(e) under the Exchange Act.  Based upon this evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Accounting Officer concluded that the Company's disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2016 in ensuring that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC's rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management of the Company as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There was no change in the Company's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the Company's last fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, such controls.
 
Management’s Report On Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Management of the Company is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting for the Company.  The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance to the Company's management and Board of Directors regarding the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements.
 
Because of inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements.  In addition, 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.

The Company’s management assessed the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016, utilizing the criteria established by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in "Internal Controls – Integrated Framework (2013 Framework)."  Based upon its assessment, management believes that, as of December 31, 2016, the Company's internal control over financial reporting is effective.

Crowe Horwath LLP, the independent registered public accounting firm that audited the consolidated financial statements included in the Annual Report, has issued an audit report on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016, which is included on page F-64.

Item 9B.   Other Information

None.

PART III

Item 10.   Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

Information regarding directors and executive officers of the Company is presented under the headings, "Proposal 1 - Election of Directors," "Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance" and "Executive Officers" in the Holding Company's definitive Proxy Statement for its Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on May 25, 2017 (the "Proxy Statement") which will be filed with the SEC within 120 days of December 31, 2016, and is incorporated herein by reference.

Information regarding the audit committee of the Holding Company's Board of Directors, including information regarding audit committee financial experts serving on the audit committee, is presented under the headings, "Meetings and Committees of the Company's Board of Directors," and "Report of the Audit Committee" in the Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.

The Holding Company has adopted a written Code of Business Ethics that applies to all officers, including its principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions.  The Code of Business Ethics is published on the Company's website, www.dime.com.  The Company will provide to any person, without charge, upon request, a copy of such Code of Business Ethics.  Such request should be made in writing to:  Dime Community Bancshares, Inc., 300 Cadman Plaza West, 8 th Floor, Brooklyn, New York 11201, attention Investor Relations.
 
Item 11.   Executive Compensation

Information regarding executive and director compensation and the Compensation Committee of the Holding Company's Board of Directors is presented under the headings, "Directors' Compensation," "Compensation - Executive Compensation," "Compensation Discussion and Analysis," "Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation," and "Compensation Committee Report" in the Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.
 
Item 12.   Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

Information regarding security ownership of certain beneficial owners and management is included under the heading "Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management" in the Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.

Item 13.   Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

Information regarding certain relationships and related transactions is included under the heading, "Transactions with Certain Related Persons" in the Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.  Information regarding director independence is included under the heading, "Information as to Nominees and Continuing Directors" in the Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.

Item 14.   Principal Accounting Fees and Services

Information regarding principal accounting fees and services, as well as the Audit Committee's pre-approval policies and procedures, is included under the heading, "Proposal 2 – Ratification of Appointment of Independent Auditors" in the Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.

PART IV

Item 15.   Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules

(a)            (1)           Financial Statements

See index to Consolidated Financial Statements on page F-63.
 
   (2)           Financial Statement Schedules

Financial statement schedules have been omitted because they are not applicable or not required or the required information is shown in the Consolidated Financial Statements or Notes thereto under "Part II - Item 8.  Financial Statements and Supplementary Data."
 
   (3)            Exhibits Required by Item 601 of SEC Regulation S-K

See Index of Exhibits on pages F-113 through F-115.
 
SIGNATURES

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 on March 15, 2017.

 
DIME COMMUNITY BANCSHARES, INC.
     
 
By:
/s/ KENNETH J. MAHON
   
Kenneth J. Mahon
   
President and Chief Executive Officer

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below on March 15, 2017 by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities indicated.

Name
Title
   
/s/ VINCENT F. PALAGIANO
Chairman of the Board
Vincent F. Palagiano
 
   
/s/ MICHAEL P. DEVINE
Vice Chairman of the Board
Michael P. Devine
 
   
/s/ KENNETH J. MAHON
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
Kenneth J. Mahon
(Principal Executive Officer)
   
/s/ MICHAEL PUCELLA
Executive Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer
Michael Pucella
(Principal Financial Officer)
   
/s/ ANTHONY BERGAMO
Director
Anthony Bergamo
 
   
/s/ STEVEN D. COHN
Director
Steven D. Cohn
 
   
/s/ PATRICK E. CURTIN
Director
Patrick E. Curtin
 
   
/s/ ROBERT C. GOLDEN
Director
Robert C. Golden
 
   
/s/ KATHLEEN M. NELSON
Director
Kathleen M. Nelson
 
   
/s/ JOSEPH J. PERRY
Director
Joseph J. Perry
 
   
/s/ OMER S.J. WILLIAMS
Director
Omer S.J. Williams
 
 
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF
DIME COMMUNITY BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

INDEX
 
 
Page
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
F-64
Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition at December 31, 2016 and 2015
F-65
Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income for the years ended
December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014
 
F-66
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity for the years ended
December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014
F-67
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014
F-68
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
F-69-F-112
 
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Audit Committee, Board of Directors, and Stockholders
Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Brooklyn, New York

We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of financial condition of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. and Subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, changes in stockholders' equity and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2016.  We also have audited the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.  The Company’s management is responsible for these financial statements, 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 located in Item 9A of Form 10-K. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements and an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting 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 consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audits of the consolidated financial statements included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting 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 audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

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 consolidated financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent, or detect and correct 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, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. and Subsidiaries as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, and the results of their operations and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2016, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also in our opinion, Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. and Subsidiaries maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

/s/   Crowe Horwath LLP

Livingston, New Jersey
March 15, 2017
 
DIME COMMUNITY BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
(Dollars in thousands except share amounts)

     
December 31,
  
2016
   
2015
ASSETS:
           
Cash and due from banks
 
$
113,503
   
$
64,154
 
Total cash and cash equivalents
   
113,503
     
64,154
 
Investment securities held-to-maturity (estimated fair value of $7,296 and $7,051 at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively)(Fully unencumbered)
   
5,378
     
5,242
 
Investment securities available-for-sale, at fair value (Fully unencumbered)
   
3,895
     
3,756
 
Mortgage-backed securities (“MBS”) available-for-sale, at fair value (Fully unencumbered)
   
3,558
     
431
 
Trading securities
   
6,953
     
10,201
 
Loans:
               
Real estate, net
   
5,633,007
     
4,695,186
 
Consumer loans
   
3,415
     
1,590
 
Less allowance for loan losses
   
(20,536
)
   
(18,514
)
Total loans, net
   
5,615,886
     
4,678,262
 
Premises and fixed assets, net
   
18,405
     
15,150
 
Premises held for sale
   
1,379
     
8,799
 
Federal Home Loan Bank of New York ("FHLBNY") capital stock
   
44,444
     
58,713
 
Other real estate owned ("OREO")
   
-
     
148
 
Bank Owned Life Insurance ("BOLI")
   
86,328
     
85,019
 
Goodwill
   
55,638
     
55,638
 
Other assets
   
50,063
     
47,359
 
Total Assets
 
$
6,005,430
   
$
5,032,872
 
                 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
               
Liabilities:
               
Due to depositors:
               
Interest bearing deposits
 
$
4,097,992
   
$
2,925,129
 
Non-interest bearing deposits
   
297,434
     
259,181
 
Total deposits
   
4,395,426
     
3,184,310
 
Escrow and other deposits
   
103,001
     
77,130
 
FHLBNY advances
   
831,125
     
1,166,725
 
Trust Preferred securities payable
   
70,680
     
70,680
 
Other liabilities
   
39,330
     
40,080
 
Total Liabilities
   
5,439,562
     
4,538,925
 
                 
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (See Note 16)
               
                 
Stockholders' Equity:
               
Preferred stock ($0.01 par, 9,000,000 shares authorized, none issued or outstanding at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015)
   
-
     
-
 
Common stock ($0.01 par, 125,000,000 shares authorized, 53,572,745 shares and 53,326,753 shares issued at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively, and 37,445,853 shares and 37,371,992 shares outstanding at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively)
   
536
     
533
 
Additional paid-in capital
   
278,356
     
262,798
 
Retained earnings
   
503,539
     
451,606
 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of deferred taxes
   
(5,939
)
   
(8,801
)
Unallocated common stock of Employee Stock Ownership Plan ("ESOP")
   
-
     
(2,313
)
Unearned Restricted Stock Award common stock
   
(1,932
)
   
(2,271
)
Common stock held by Benefit Maintenance Plan ("BMP")
   
(6,859
)
   
(9,354
)
Treasury stock, at cost (16,116,892 shares and 15,954,761 shares at December 31 , 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively)
   
(201,833
)
   
(198,251
)
Total Stockholders' Equity
   
565,868
     
493,947
 
Total Liabilities And Stockholders' Equity
 
$
6,005,430
   
$
5,032,872
 

See notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
DIME COMMUNITY BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(Dollars in thousands except per share amounts)

   
Year Ended December 31,
 
2016
   
2015
   
2014
Interest income:
                 
Loans secured by real estate
 
$
191,856
   
$
171,347
   
$
169,208
 
Other loans
   
115
     
93
     
105
 
MBS
   
20
     
186
     
914
 
Investment securities
   
880
     
875
     
560
 
Other short-term investments
   
2,756
     
2,290
     
2,165
 
Total interest income
   
195,627
     
174,791
     
172,952
 
Interest expense:
                       
Deposits and escrow
   
32,374
     
23,005
     
19,591
 
Borrowed funds
   
19,767
     
23,222
     
28,825
 
Total interest expense
   
52,141
     
46,227
     
48,416
 
Net interest income
   
143,486
     
128,564
     
124,536
 
Provision (Credit) for loan losses
   
2,118
     
(1,330
)
   
(1,872
)
Net interest income after provision for loan losses
   
141,368
     
129,894
     
126,408
 
Non-interest income:
                       
Service charges and other fees
   
3,429
     
3,323
     
3,191
 
Mortgage banking income
   
96
     
183
     
1,225
 
Net gain on securities (1) and other assets
   
123
     
1,273
     
952
 
Net gain on the sale of premises
   
68,183
     
-
     
649
 
Income from BOLI
   
2,734
     
2,405
     
1,743
 
Other
   
1,369
     
1,432
     
1,278
 
Total non-interest income
   
75,934
     
8,616
     
9,038
 
Non-interest expense:
                       
Salaries and employee benefits
   
34,854
     
31,350
     
32,462
 
Stock benefit plan compensation expense
   
14,651
     
3,640
     
3,817
 
Occupancy and equipment
   
12,103
     
10,514
     
10,177
 
Data processing costs
   
5,194
     
4,017
     
3,595
 
Advertising and marketing
   
4,121
     
2,685
     
1,922
 
Federal deposit insurance premiums
   
2,515
     
2,304
     
2,151
 
Other
   
10,393
     
7,983
     
6,952
 
Total non-interest expense
   
83,831
     
62,493
     
61,076
 
Income before income taxes
   
133,471
     
76,017
     
74,370
 
Income tax expense
   
60,957
     
31,245
     
30,124
 
Net income
 
$
72,514
   
$
44,772
   
$
44,246
 
Earnings per Share (“EPS”):
                       
Basic
 
$
1.97
   
$
1.24
   
$
1.23
 
Diluted
 
$
1.97
   
$
1.23
   
$
1.23
 
(1) Amount includes periodic valuation gains or losses on trading securities.
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(Dollars in thousands except per share amounts)
 
   
Year Ended December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
   
2014
 
Net Income
 
$
72,514
   
$
44,772
   
$
44,246
 
Other comprehensive income:
                       
Change in unrealized holding loss on securities held-to-maturity and transferred securities
   
85
     
116
     
97
 
Change in unrealized holding loss (gain) on securities available-for-sale
   
56
     
(1,560
)
   
(1,062
)
Change in pension and other postretirement obligations
   
1,841
     
989
     
(5,942
)
Change in unrealized gain on derivative asset
   
3,228
     
-
     
-
 
 Other comprehensive gain (loss) before income taxes
   
5,210
     
(455
)
   
(6,907
)
Deferred tax expense (benefit)
   
2,348
     
(201
)
   
(3,119
)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
   
2,862
     
(254
)
   
(3,788
)
Total comprehensive income
 
$
75,376
   
$
44,518
   
$
40,458
 
 
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
DIME COMMUNITY BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
  (Dollars in thousands except per share data)

   
Number of
Shares
   
Common
Stock
   
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
   
Retained
Earnings
   
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss, Net of
Deferred Taxes
   
Unallocated
Common
Stock of
ESOP
   
Unearned
Restricted
Stock
Award
Common
Stock
   
Common
Stock
Held by
BMP
   
Treasury
Stock, at
cost
   
Total
Stockholders’
Equity
 
                                                             
Beginning balance as of January 1, 2014
   
36,712,951
   
$
528
   
$
252,253
   
$
402,986
   
$
(4,759
)
 
$
(2,776
)
 
$
(3,193
)
 
$
(9,013
)
 
$
(200,520
)
 
$
435,506
 
Net Income
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
44,246
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
44,246
 
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
(3,788
)
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
(3,788
)
Exercise of stock options, net expired options
   
16,960
     
1
     
248
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
249
 
Release of shares, net of forfeitures
   
125,108
     
-
     
746
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
(1,849
)
   
(151
)
   
1,554
     
300
 
Stock-based compensation
   
-
     
-
     
1,111
     
-
     
-
     
231
     
1,976
     
-
     
-
     
3,318
 
Cash dividends declared and paid
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
(20,106
)
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
(20,106
)
Repurchase of common stock
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Ending balance as of December 31, 2014
   
36,855,019
     
529
     
254,358
     
427,126
     
(8,547
)
   
(2,545
)
   
(3,066
)
   
(9,164
)
   
(198,966
)
   
459,725
 
                                                                                 
Net Income
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
44,772
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
44,772
 
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
(254
)
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
(254
)
Exercise of stock options, net expired options
   
455,310
     
4
     
6,809
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
6,813
 
Release of shares, net of forfeitures
   
81,663
     
-
     
526
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
(1,061
)
   
(190
)
   
1,015
     
290
 
Stock-based compensation
   
-
     
-
     
1,105
     
-
     
-
     
232
     
1,856
     
-
     
-
     
3,193
 
Cash dividends declared and paid
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
(20,292
)
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
(20,292
)
Repurchase of common stock
   
(20,000
)
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
(300
)
   
(300
)
Ending balance as of December 31, 2015
   
37,371,992
     
533
     
262,798
     
451,606
     
(8,801
)
   
(2,313
)
   
(2,271
)
   
(9,354
)
   
(198,251
)
   
493,947
 
                                                                                 
Net Income
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
72,514
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
72,514
 
Other comprehensive income, net of tax
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
2,862
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
2,862
 
Exercise of stock options, net of expired options
   
245,992
     
3
     
3,567
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
3,570
 
Release of shares, net of forfeitures
   
85,137
     
-
     
659
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
(780
)
   
(222
)
   
708
     
365
 
Stock-based compensation
   
-
     
-
     
1,276
     
-
     
-
     
231
     
1,119
     
-
     
349
     
2,975
 
Shares received to satisfy distribution of retirement benefits
   
(107,008
)
   
-
     
(2,717
)
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
2,717
     
(1,820
)
   
(1,820
)
Tax benefit from market valuation adjustment on distribution of BMP ESOP shares
   
-
     
-
     
717
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
717
 
ESOP Share Acquisition Loan payoff
   
(140,260
)
   
-
     
12,056
     
-
     
-
     
2,082
     
-
     
-
     
(2,819
)
   
11,319
 
Cash dividends declared and paid
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
(20,581
)
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
(20,581
)
Ending balance as of December 31, 2016
   
37,455,853
   
$
536
   
$
278,356
   
$
503,539
   
$
(5,939
)
 
$
-
   
$
(1,932
)
 
$
(6,859
)
 
$
(201,833
)
 
$
565,868
 

See notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
DIME COMMUNITY BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Dollars in thousands)

    
Year Ended December 31,
  
2016
   
2015
   
2014
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
                 
Net Income
 
$
72,514
   
$
44,772
   
$
44,246
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities
                       
Net gain on the sales of investment securities and MBS available-for-sale
   
-
     
(1,384
)
   
(997
)
Net (gain) loss recognized on trading securities
   
(83
)
   
111
     
(13
)
Net gain on the sale of OREO
   
(40
)
   
-
     
-
 
Write-down of OREO
   
18
     
-
     
-
 
Net gain on sale of premises
   
(68,183
)
   
-
     
(649
)
Net gain on sale of loans held for sale
   
-
     
-
     
(27
)
Net depreciation, amortization and accretion
   
2,296
     
2,738
     
2,641
 
Stock plan compensation expense (excluding ESOP)
   
1,837
     
1,886
     
2,087
 
Prepayment of ESOP Share Acquisition Loan
   
11,319
     
-
     
-
 
ESOP compensation expense
   
1,138
     
1,307
     
1,230
 
Provision (Credit) for loan losses
   
2,118
     
(1,330
)
   
(1,872
)
Credit to reduce the liability for loans sold with recourse
   
-
     
-
     
(1,040
)
Increase in cash surrender value of BOLI
   
(2,250
)
   
(2,405
)
   
(1,743
)
Income recognized from mortality benefit on BOLI
   
(484
)
   
-
     
-
 
Deferred income tax expense
   
1,097
     
6,883
     
771
 
Reduction in credit related other than temporary impairment (“OTTI”) amortized through interest income
   
(104
)
   
(228
)
   
-
 
Excess tax benefit of stock benefit plans
   
(171
)
   
(303
)
   
(71
)
Changes in assets and liabilities:
                       
Increase in other assets
   
(2,942
)
   
(1,464
)
   
(2,873
)
Increase (Decrease) in other liabilities
   
1,979
     
(430
)
   
5,573
 
Net cash provided by Operating Activities
   
20,059
     
50,153
     
47,263
 
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
                       
Proceeds from maturities of investment securities held-to-maturity
   
-
     
340
     
88
 
Proceeds from maturities and calls of investment securities available-for-sale
   
-
     
-
     
15,000
 
Proceeds from sales of investment securities available-for-sale
   
-
     
2,070
     
3,780
 
Proceeds from sales of MBS available-for-sale
   
-
     
24,307
     
-
 
Proceeds from sales of trading securities
   
3,648
     
1,340
     
7,115
 
Purchases of investment securities available-for-sale
   
(22
)
   
(2,134
)
   
(3,884
)
Purchases of MBS available-for-sale
   
(3,267
)
   
-
     
(875
)
Acquisition of trading securities
   
(317
)
   
(3,090
)
   
(8,839
)
Principal collected on MBS available-for-sale
   
59
     
1,602
     
5,863
 
Purchase of BOLI
   
-
     
-
     
(25,000
)
Purchases of loans
   
(157,782
)
   
(99,745
)
   
(225,604
)
Proceeds from sale of portfolio loans
   
-
     
9,572
     
16,892
 
Net increase in loans
   
(781,960
)
   
(486,142
)
   
(210,770
)
Proceeds from the sale of OREO and real estate owned
   
170
     
-
     
-
 
Proceeds from surrender of cash surrender value of BOLI
   
1,425
     
-
     
-
 
Proceeds from the sale of fixed assets and premises held for sale
   
75,899
     
-
     
4,273
 
Purchases of fixed assets, net
   
(5,774
)
   
(1,488
)
   
(1,618
)
Sale (Purchase) of FHLBNY capital stock, net
   
14,269
     
(306
)
   
(10,356
)
Net cash used in Investing Activities
   
(853,652
)
   
(553,674
)
   
(433,935
)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
                       
Increase in due to depositors
   
1,211,116
     
524,518
     
152,646
 
Increase (Decrease) in escrow and other deposits
   
25,871
     
(14,791
)
   
22,517
 
Repayments of FHLBNY advances
   
(3,178,500
)
   
(2,897,500
)
   
(1,224,500
)
Proceeds from FHLBNY advances
   
2,842,900
     
2,890,500
     
1,488,225
 
Proceeds from exercise of stock options
   
3,498
     
6,549
     
278
 
Excess tax benefit of stock benefit plans
   
171
     
303
     
71
 
Equity award distribution
   
287
     
251
     
201
 
BMP ESOP shares received to satisfy distribution of retirement benefits
   
(1,820
)
   
-
     
-
 
Treasury shares repurchased
   
-
     
(300
)
   
-
 
Cash dividends paid to stockholders
   
(20,581
)
   
(20,292
)
   
(20,106
)
Net cash provided by Financing Activities
   
882,942
     
489,238
     
419,332
 
INCREASE(DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
   
49,349
 
   
(14,283
)
   
32,660
 
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD
   
64,154
     
78,437
     
45,777
 
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD
 
$
113,503
   
$
64,154
   
$
78,437
 
                         
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
                       
Cash paid for income taxes
 
$
58,383
   
$
25,659
   
$
29,035
 
Cash paid for interest
   
52,320
     
46,698
     
48,329
 
Loans transferred to OREO
   
-
     
130
     
-
 
Loans transferred to held for sale
   
-
     
9,572
     
16,865
 
Transfer of premises to held for sale
   
1,379
     
8,799
     
-
 
Amortization of unrealized loss on securities transferred from available-for-sale to held-to-maturity
   
51
     
125
     
65
 
Net increase (decrease) in non-credit component of OTTI of securities
   
(34
)
   
9
     
(32
)

See notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
DIME COMMUNITY BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 (Dollars In Thousands except for share amounts)

1.
NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Nature of Operations - Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. (the "Holding Company" and together with its direct and indirect subsidiaries, the "Company") is a Delaware corporation organized by Dime Community Bank ( f/k/a The Dime Savings Bank of Williamsburgh) (the "Bank") for the purpose of acquiring all of the capital stock of the Bank issued in the Bank's conversion to stock ownership on June 26, 1996.  At December 31, 2016, the significant assets of the Holding Company were the capital stock of the Bank and investments retained by the Holding Company.  The liabilities of the Holding Company were comprised primarily of a $70,680 trust preferred securities payable maturing in 2034, and currently callable.  The Company is subject to the financial reporting requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

The Bank was originally founded in 1864 as a New York State-chartered mutual savings bank, and currently operates as a New York State-chartered stock savings bank.  Effective August 1, 2016, the Bank changed its name from The Dime Savings Bank of Williamsburgh to Dime Community Bank.  The new name more accurately reflects the Bank’s evolving business model and emphasizes its broader geographic and business reach while retaining the Bank’s mission to be in and of the communities it serves, including the virtual on line community.  The Bank has been a community-oriented financial institution providing financial services and loans for housing within its market areas.

The Holding Company neither owns nor leases any property, but instead uses the back office of the Bank, located in the Brooklyn Heights section of the borough of Brooklyn, New York. The Bank maintains its principal office in the Williamsburg section of the borough of Brooklyn, New York.  As of December 31, 2016, the Bank had twenty-five retail banking offices located throughout the boroughs of Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx, and in Nassau County, New York. The Bank opened two additional branches located in Brooklyn, New York in February 2017.

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies – Management believes that the accounting and reporting policies of the Company conform to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP").  The following is a description of the significant policies.

Principles of Consolidation - The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Holding Company and its subsidiaries (with the exception of its special purpose entity, Dime Community Capital Trust I), and the Bank and its subsidiaries.  All inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Use of Estimates - To prepare consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP, management makes judgments, estimates and assumptions based on available information.  These estimates and assumptions affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and the disclosures provided, and actual results could differ.

Cash and Cash Equivalents: Cash and cash equivalents include cash and deposits with other financial institutions with maturities fewer than 90 days.  Net cash flows are reported for customer loan and deposit transactions, and interest bearing deposits in other financial institutions.

Investment Securities and MBS - Debt securities that have readily determinable fair values are carried at fair value unless they are held-to-maturity. Debt securities are classified as held-to-maturity and carried at amortized cost only if the Company has a positive intent and ability to hold them to maturity.  If not classified as held-to-maturity, such securities are classified as securities available-for-sale or trading. Equity securities and mutual fund investments (fixed income or equity in nature) are classified as either available-for-sale or trading securities and carried at fair value.  Unrealized holding gains or losses on securities available-for-sale that are deemed temporary are excluded from net income and reported net of income taxes as other comprehensive income or loss.  While the Holding Company had a small portfolio of mutual fund investments designated as trading at both December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, neither the Holding Company nor the Bank actively acquires securities for the purpose of engaging in trading activities.
 
Interest income includes amortization of purchase premium or discount.  Premiums and discounts on securities are amortized on the level-yield method without anticipating prepayments, except for MBS where prepayments are anticipated.  Gains and losses on sales are recorded on the trade date and determined using the specific identification method.
 
The Company evaluates securities for OTTI at least quarterly, and more frequently when economic or market conditions warrant such an evaluation.  In making its evaluation of OTTI for debt securities, the Company initially considers whether: (1) it intends to sell the security, or (2) it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell the security prior to recovery of its amortized cost basis. If either of these criteria is satisfied, an OTTI charge is recognized in the statement of income equal to the full amount of the decline in fair value below amortized cost.  For debt securities, if neither of these criteria is satisfied, however, the Company does not expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis, an OTTI loss has occurred that must be separated into two categories: (a) the amount related to credit loss, and (b) the amount related to other factors. In assessing the level of OTTI attributable to credit loss, the Company compares the present value of expected cash flows to the amortized cost basis of the security. The portion of OTTI determined to result from credit-related factors is recognized through earnings, while the portion of the OTTI related to other factors is recognized in other comprehensive income.  When OTTI is recognized on a debt security, its amortized cost basis is reduced to reflect the credit-related component.

In determining whether OTTI exists on an equity security, the Company considers the following:  1) the duration and severity of the impairment; 2) the Company’s ability and intent to hold the security until it recovers in value (as well as the likelihood of such a recovery in the near term); and 3) whether it is more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell such security before recovery of its individual amortized cost basis less any unrecognized loss.  Should OTTI be determined to have occurred based upon this analysis, it is fully recognized through earnings.

Loans - Loans that the Bank has the intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future or until maturity or payoff are reported at the principal amount outstanding (as adjusted for any amounts charged-off), net of unearned fees or costs, unamortized premiums and the allowance for loan losses.  Interest income on loans is recorded using the level yield method.  Loan origination fees and certain direct loan origination costs are deferred and amortized as yield adjustments over the contractual loan terms.  Past due status is based upon the contractual terms of the loan.

Accrual of interest is generally discontinued on a loan that meets any of the following three criteria:  (i) full payment of principal or interest is not expected; (ii) principal or interest has been in default for a period of 90 days or more and the loan is not both deemed to be well secured and in the process of collection; or (iii) an election has otherwise been made to maintain the loan on a cash basis due to deterioration in the financial condition of the borrower.  Such non-accrual determination practices are applied consistently to all loans regardless of their internal classification or designation.  Upon entering non-accrual status, the Bank reverses all outstanding accrued interest receivable.

Management may elect to continue the accrual of interest when a loan that otherwise meets the criteria for non-accrual status is in the process of collection and the estimated fair value and cash flows of the underlying collateral property are sufficient to satisfy the outstanding principal balance (including any outstanding advances related to the loan) and accrued interest.  Management may also elect to continue the accrual of interest on a loan that would otherwise meet the criteria for non-accrual status when its delinquency relates solely to principal amounts due, it is well secured and refinancing activities have commenced on the loan.  Such elections have not been commonplace.

The Bank generally initiates foreclosure proceedings when a delinquent loan enters non-accrual status, and typically does not accept partial payments once foreclosure proceedings have commenced.  At some point during foreclosure proceedings, the Bank procures current appraisal information in order to prepare an estimate of the fair value of the underlying collateral.  If a foreclosure action is instituted and the loan is not brought current, paid in full, or refinanced before the foreclosure action is completed, the property securing the loan is transferred to OREO status.  The Bank generally utilizes all available remedies, such as note sales in lieu of foreclosure, in an effort to resolve non-accrual loans as quickly and prudently as possible in consideration of market conditions, the physical condition of the property and any other mitigating circumstances.  In the event that a non-accrual loan is subsequently brought current, it is returned to accrual status once the doubt concerning collectability has been removed and the borrower has demonstrated performance in accordance with the loan terms and conditions for a period of at least six months.
 
A loan is considered impaired when, based on then current information and events, it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect all amounts 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 or shortfalls generally are not classified as impaired.  Management determines the significance of payment delays and shortfalls on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration all of 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 typically measured using the difference between the outstanding loan principal balance and either: 1) the likely realizable value of a note sale; 2) the fair value of the underlying collateral, net of likely disposal costs, if repayment is expected to come from liquidation of the collateral; or 3) the present value of estimated future cash flows (using the loan’s pre-modification rate for some performing troubled debt restructurings (“TDRs”)).  If a TDR is substantially performing in accordance with its restructured terms, management will look to either the potential net liquidation proceeds of the underlying collateral property or the present value of the expected cash flows from the debt service in measuring impairment (whichever is deemed most appropriate under the circumstances).  If a TDR has re-defaulted, generally the likely realizable net proceeds from either a note sale or the liquidation of the collateral is considered when measuring impairment.  Measured impairment is either charged off immediately or, in limited instances, recognized as an allocated reserve within the allowance for loan losses. See Note 5 for a discussion of TDRs.

Allowance for Loan Losses and Reserve for Loan Commitments - The allowance for loan losses is a valuation allowance for probable incurred credit losses.  Loan losses are charged against the allowance when management believes the uncollectibility of a loan balance is confirmed.  Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance. Management estimates the allowance balance required using past loan loss experience, the nature and volume of the portfolio, information about specific borrower situations and estimated collateral values, economic conditions, and other factors.  Allocations of the allowance may be made for specific loans, but the entire allowance is available for any loan that, in management’s judgment, should be charged off.

Measured impairment is either charged off immediately or, in limited instances, recognized as an allocated reserve within the allowance for loan losses.  All multifamily residential, mixed use, commercial real estate and construction loans that are deemed to meet the definition of impaired are individually evaluated for impairment.  In addition, all condominium or cooperative apartment and one- to four-family residential loans with balances greater than the Fannie Mae ("FNMA") conforming loan limits for high-cost areas such as the Bank's primary lending area ("FNMA Limits") that are deemed to meet the definition of impaired are individually evaluated for impairment.   Loans for which the terms have been modified in a manner that meets the criteria of a TDR are deemed to be impaired and individually evaluated for impairment.  If a TDR is substantially performing in accordance with its restructured terms, management will look to either the potential net liquidation proceeds of the underlying collateral property or the present value of the expected cash flows from the debt service in measuring impairment (whichever is deemed most appropriate under the circumstances).  If a TDR has defaulted, the likely realizable net proceeds from either a note sale or the liquidation of collateral is generally considered when measuring impairment.

Smaller balance homogeneous loans, such as condominium or cooperative apartment and one-to four-family residential real estate loans with balances less than or equal to the FNMA Limits and consumer loans, are collectively evaluated for impairment, and accordingly, not separately identified for impairment disclosures.

In determining both the specific and the general components of the allowance for loan losses, the Company has identified the following portfolio segments: 1) real estate loans; and 2) consumer loans.  Consumer loans represent a nominal portion of the Company’s loan portfolio.  Within these segments, the Bank analyzes the allowance based upon the underlying collateral type.

The underlying methodology utilized to assess the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses is summarized in Note 5.
 
The Bank maintains a separate reserve within other liabilities associated with commitments to fund future loans that have been accepted by the borrower.  This reserve is determined based upon the historical loss experience of similar loans owned by the Bank at each period end.  Any changes in this reserve amount are recognized through earnings as a component of non-interest expense.
 
Loans Held for Sale - Mortgage loans originated and intended for sale in the secondary market, as well as identified problem loans which are subject to an executed note sale agreement, are carried at the lower of aggregate cost or net realizable proceeds.  Multifamily residential and mixed-use loans sold are generally sold with servicing rights retained.  There were no problem loans re-classified to held for sale during the year ended December 31, 2016. During the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, the Bank re-classified certain problematic loans for which it had an executed pending note sale agreement as held for sale.  Such loans are carried at the lower of cost or their expected net realizable proceeds.
 
Derivatives – The Company has a derivative contract designated as a hedge of the variability of cash flows to be received or paid related to a recognized liability (“Cash Flow Hedge”). The gain or loss on the derivative is reported in other comprehensive income and is reclassified into earnings in the same periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are not highly effective in hedging the changes in expected cash flows of the hedged item are recognized immediately in current earnings as non-interest income.

Net cash settlements on derivatives that qualify for hedge accounting are recorded in interest income or interest expense, based on the item being hedged. Net cash settlements on derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting are reported in non-interest income. Cash flows on hedges are classified in the cash flow statement the same as the cash flows of the items being hedged.

The Company formally documents the relationship between derivatives and hedged items, as well as the risk-management objective and the strategy for undertaking hedge transactions at the inception of the hedging relationship. This documentation includes linking cash flow hedges to specific liabilities on the balance sheet. The Company also formally assesses, both at the hedge’s inception and on an on-going basis, whether the derivative instruments that are used are highly effective in offsetting changes in or cash flows of the hedged items. The Company discontinues hedge accounting when it determines that the derivative is no longer effective in offsetting changes in cash flows of the hedged item, or treatment of the derivative as a hedge is no longer appropriate or intended.

When hedge accounting is discontinued, subsequent changes in fair value of the derivative are recorded as non-interest income. When a cash flow hedge is discontinued but the hedged cash flows are still expected to occur, gains or losses that were accumulated in other comprehensive income are amortized into earnings over the same periods which the hedged transaction will affect earnings.

OREO - Properties acquired as a result of foreclosure on a mortgage loan or a deed in lieu of foreclosure are initially recorded at fair value less costs to sell when acquired, establishing a new cost basis.  Physical possession of residential real estate collateralizing a consumer mortgage loan occurs when legal title is obtained upon completion of foreclosure or when the borrower conveys all interest in the property to satisfy the loan through execution of a deed in lieu of foreclosure or through a similar legal agreement. These assets are subsequently accounted for at the lower of cost or fair value less estimated costs to sell.  Declines in the recorded balance subsequent to acquisition by the Company are recorded through expense.  Operating costs after acquisition are expensed.

Premises and Fixed Assets, Net - Land is stated at original cost. Buildings and furniture, fixtures and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed by the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the properties as follows:

Buildings
 
2.22% to 2.50% per year
Leasehold improvements
 
Lesser of the useful life of the asset or the remaining non-cancelable terms of the related leases
Furniture, fixtures and equipment
 
10% per year

Premises Held for Sale – Premises held for sale are carried at the lower of the recorded balance or their likely disposal value. Upon being re-classified as held for sale, depreciation is no longer recognized on these assets.

Accounting for Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets – An impairment test is required to be performed at least annually for goodwill acquired in a business combination. The Company performs impairment tests of goodwill as of December 31 st of each year.  As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company concluded that no impairment of goodwill existed.  As of both December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company had goodwill totaling $55,638.
 
BOLI – BOLI is carried at the amount that can be realized under the insurance contract at the balance sheet date, which is the cash surrender value adjusted for other charges or amounts due that are probable at settlement.  Increases in the contract value are recorded as non-interest income in the consolidated statements of operations and insurance proceeds received are recorded as a reduction of the contract value.
 
Income Taxes – Income tax expense is the total of the current year income tax due or refundable and the change in deferred tax assets and liabilities.  Deferred tax assets and liabilities are the expected future tax amounts for the temporary differences between carrying amounts and tax bases of assets and liabilities, computed using enacted tax rates.  A valuation allowance, if needed, reduces deferred tax assets to the amount deemed more likely than not to be realized.

A tax position is recognized as a benefit only if it is "more likely than not" that the tax position would be sustained in a tax examination, with a tax examination being presumed to occur.  The amount recognized is the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized on examination.  For tax positions not satisfying the "more likely than not" test, no tax benefit is recorded.  The Company recognizes interest and/or penalties related to tax matters in income tax expense.  The Company had no uncertain tax positions at December 31, 2016 or 2015.

Employee Benefits – The Bank maintains the Dime Community Bank 401(k) Plan [the "401(k) Plan"] for substantially all of its employees, and the Retirement Plan of Dime Community Bank (the "Employee Retirement Plan"), both of which are tax qualified under the Internal Revenue Code.

The Bank also maintains the Postretirement Welfare Plan of Dime Community Bank (the "Postretirement Benefit Plan"), providing additional postretirement benefits to certain retirees, which requires accrual of postretirement benefits (such as health care benefits) during the years an employee provides services, a Retirement Plan for its outside Directors (the “Director Retirement Plan”), and the BMP that provides additional benefits to certain of its officers.

As the sponsor of a single employer defined benefit plan, the Company must do the following for the Employee Retirement Plan, a portion of the BMP, the Director Retirement Plan and the Postretirement Benefit Plan: (1) recognize the funded status of the benefit plans in its statements of financial condition, measured as the difference between plan assets at fair value (with limited exceptions) and the benefit obligation. For a pension plan, the benefit obligation is the projected benefit obligation; for any other postretirement benefit plan, such as a retiree health care
plan, the benefit obligation is the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation; (2) recognize as a component of other comprehensive income, net of tax, the gains or losses and prior service costs or credits that arise during the period but are not recognized as components of net periodic benefit or cost.  Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income, including the gains or losses, prior service costs or credits, and the transition asset or obligation are adjusted as they are subsequently recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost; (3) measure defined benefit plan assets and obligations as of the date of the employer’s fiscal year-end statements of financial condition (with limited exceptions); and (4) disclose in the notes to financial statements additional information about certain effects on net periodic benefit cost for the next fiscal year that arise from delayed recognition of the gains or losses, prior service costs or credits, and transition asset or obligation.

The Holding Company and Bank maintain the ESOP.  Compensation expense related to the ESOP is recorded during the period in which the shares become committed to be released to participants.  The compensation expense is measured based upon the average fair market value of the stock during the period, and, to the extent that the fair value of the shares committed to be released differs from the original cost of such shares, the difference is recorded as an adjustment to additional paid-in capital.  Cash dividends are paid on all ESOP shares, and reduce retained earnings accordingly.

The Holding Company and Bank maintain the Dime Community Bancshares, Inc.  2004 Stock Incentive Plan for Outside Directors, Officers and Employees and the Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. 2013 Equity and Incentive Plan (collectively the "Stock Plans"); which are discussed more fully in Note 14.  Under the Stock Plans, compensation cost is recognized for stock options and restricted stock awards issued to employees based on the fair value of the awards at the date of grant.  A Black-Scholes model is utilized to estimate the fair value of stock options, while the market price of the Holding Company’s common stock (“Common Stock”) at the date of grant is used for restricted stock awards. Compensation cost is recognized over the required service period, generally defined as the vesting period. For awards with graded vesting, compensation cost is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for the entire award.
 
Basic and Diluted EPS - Basic EPS is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average common shares outstanding during the reporting period.  Diluted EPS is computed using the same method as basic EPS, but reflects the potential dilution that would occur if "in the money" stock options were exercised and converted into Common Stock , and likely aggregate Long-term Incentive Plan (“LTIP”) share payout.  In determining the weighted average shares outstanding for basic and diluted EPS, treasury stock and unallocated ESOP shares are excluded and vested restricted stock award shares are included.  Unvested restricted stock award shares are recognized as a special class of securities under ASC 260.
 
The following is a reconciliation of the numerator and denominator of basic EPS and diluted EPS for the periods indicated:

   
Year Ended December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
   
2014
 
Numerator:
                 
Net Income per the Consolidated Statements of Operations
 
$
72,514
   
$
44,772
   
$
44,246
 
Less: Dividends paid on earnings allocated to participating securities
   
(109
)
   
(136
)
   
(168
)
Income attributable to Common Stock
 
$
72,405
   
$
44,636
   
$
44,078
 
Weighted average common shares outstanding, including participating securities
   
36,898,951
     
36,477,854
     
36,174,962
 
Less: weighted average participating securities
   
(186,058
)
   
(245,037
)
   
(301,785
)
Weighted average common shares outstanding
   
36,712,893
     
36,232,817
     
35,873,177
 
Basic EPS
 
$
1.97
   
$
1.24
   
$
1.23
 
                         
Income attributable to Common Stock
 
$
72,405
   
$
44,636
   
$
44,078
 
Weighted average common shares outstanding
   
36,712,893
     
36,232,817
     
35,873,177
 
Weighted average common equivalent shares outstanding
   
51,193
     
89,516
     
75,339
 
Weighted average common and equivalent shares outstanding
   
36,764,086
     
36,322,333
     
35,948,516
 
Diluted EPS
 
$
1.97
   
$
1.23
   
$
1.23
 

Common stock equivalents resulting from the dilutive effect of "in-the-money" stock options are calculated based upon the excess of the average market value of the Common Stock over the exercise price of outstanding options.

There were approximately 77,432, 126,172 and 293,272 weighted average options for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014, respectively, that were not considered in the calculation of diluted EPS since the sum of their exercise price and unrecognized compensation cost exceeded the average market value during the relevant period.

For information about the calculation of likely aggregate LTIP share payout, see Note 15.

Comprehensive Income - Comprehensive income for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 included changes in the unrealized gain or loss on available-for-sale securities, changes in the unfunded status of defined benefit plans, the non-credit component of OTTI, a transfer loss related to securities transferred from available-for-sale to held-to-maturity, and changes in the unrealized gain or loss on derivatives.  Under GAAP, all of these items bypass net income and are typically reported as components of stockholders' equity.  All comprehensive income adjustment items are presented net of applicable tax effect.

Comprehensive and accumulated comprehensive income are summarized in Note 2.

Disclosures About Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information - The Company has one reportable segment, "Community Banking."  All of the Company's activities are interrelated, and each activity is dependent and assessed based on the manner in which it supports the other activities of the Company.  For example, lending is dependent upon the ability of the Bank to fund itself with retail deposits and other borrowings and to manage interest rate and credit risk.  Accordingly, all significant operating decisions are based upon analysis of the Company as one operating segment or unit.

For the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, there was no customer that accounted for more than 10% of the Company's consolidated revenue.

Reclassification – There have been no material reclassifications to prior year amounts to conform to their current presentation.
 
Recently Issued Accounting Standards - In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) .  ASU 2014-09 impacts any entity that either enters into contracts with customers to transfer goods or services, or that enters into contracts for the transfer of nonfinancial assets unless those contracts are within the scope of other standards ( e.g., insurance or lease contracts).  Under ASU 2014-09, an entity is required to recognize revenue for the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services.  ASU 2014-09 also requires disclosure of sufficient information to enable users of financial statements to understand the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers, as well as qualitative and quantitative disclosure related to contracts with certain customers, significant judgments and changes in judgments, and assets recognized from the costs to obtain or fulfill a contract.  In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-08, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Principal Versus Agent Consideration - Reporting Revenue Gross Versus Net . The objective of the ASU is to align the recognition of revenue with the transfer of promised goods or services provided to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The amendments in this ASU affect the guidance in ASU 2014-09, which is not yet effective.  Both ASU 2014-09 and the amendment are effective for public business entities for annual periods, and interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2017. The Company is evaluating the potential impact of ASU 2014-09 and the amendment on its consolidated financial statements, but it is not expected to have a material impact.

In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01, an amendment to Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities (Subtopic 825-10) . The objectives of the ASU are to: (1) require equity investments to be measured at fair value, with changes in fair value recognized in net income, (2) simplify the impairment assessment of equity investments without readily determinable fair values, (3) eliminate the requirement to disclose methods and significant assumptions used to estimate fair value for financial instruments measured at amortized cost on the balance sheet, (4) require the use of the exit price notion when measuring the fair value of financial instruments, and (5) clarify the need for a valuation allowance on a deferred tax asset related to available-for-sale securities in combination with the entity’s other deferred tax assets. The amendments in this ASU are effective for public business entities for annual periods, and interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2017. The Company is evaluating the potential impact of ASU 2016-01 on its consolidated financial statements, but it is not expected to have a material impact.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) . ASU 2016-02 requires companies that lease valuable assets to recognize on their balance sheets the assets and liabilities generated by contracts longer than a year. The amendments in this update are effective for annual periods, and interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2018, however, early adoption is permitted. The Company is evaluating the potential impact of ASU 2016-02 on its consolidated financial statements.

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting . The objectives of the ASU are to simplify accounting for the tax consequences of a stock payment and amend the manner in which excess tax benefits and a business's payments to satisfy the tax obligation for recipients of the shares should be classified. The amendments: (i) allow companies to estimate the number of stock awards they expect to vest, and (ii) revise the withholding requirements for classifying stock awards as equity. The amendments in this ASU became effective for public companies on January 1, 2017 and did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (Topic 326) , which requires the measurement of all expected credit losses for financial assets held at the reporting date be based on historical experience, current condition, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. Financial institutions and other organizations will now use forward-looking information to better inform their credit loss estimates.  This guidance also amends the accounting for credit losses on available-for-sale debt securities and purchased financial assets with credit deterioration. For the Company, this guidance is effective for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after December 31, 2019. The Company is currently evaluating this guidance to determine the impact on its consolidated financial statements. The Company expects to recognize a one-time cumulative effect increase to the allowance for loan losses as of the beginning of the reporting period in which the ASU takes effect, however, cannot yet determine the magnitude of the impact on the consolidated financial statements.
 
In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230) , which provides guidance on eight specific cash flow issues in order to reduce diversity in the manner in which certain cash receipts and cash payments are presented and classified in the statements of cash flows. The amendments in this ASU are effective for public companies for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, however, early adoption is permitted. The Company elected to adopt these updates as of December 31, 2016, and there was no material impact on its consolidated financial statements.
 
2.
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

Activity in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, was as follows:

   
Held-to-
Maturity
and
Transferred
Securities
   
Available-
for-Sale
Securities
   
Defined
Benefit
Plans
   
Derivative
Asset
   
Total
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
 
Balance as of January 1, 2015
 
$
(826
)
 
$
736
   
$
(8,457
)
 
$
-
   
$
(8,547
)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
   
66
     
(98
)
   
(500
)
   
-
     
(532
)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
   
-
     
(760
)
   
1,038
     
-
     
278
 
Net other comprehensive income (loss) during the period
   
66
     
(858
)
   
538
     
-
     
(254
)
Balance as of December 31, 2015
   
(760
)
   
(122
)
   
(7,919
)
   
-
     
(8,801
)
                                         
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications
   
47
     
30
     
1,009
     
1,833
     
2,919
 
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
(57
)
   
(57
)
Net other comprehensive income  during the period
   
47
     
30
     
1,009
     
1,776
     
2,862
 
Balance as of December 31, 2016
 
$
(713
)
 
$
(92
)
 
$
(6,910
)
 
$
1,776
   
$
(5,939
)

The before and after tax amounts allocated to each component of other comprehensive income (loss) are presented in the table below for the periods indicated.
 
    
For the year ended December 31,
  
2016
   
2015
   
2014
Change in unrealized holding loss on securities held-to-maturity and transferred securities:
                 
Accretion (Amortization) of previously recognized non-credit component of OTTI
 
$
34
   
$
(9
)
 
$
32
 
Change in unrealized loss on securities transferred to held-to-maturity
   
51
     
125
     
65
 
Net change
   
85
     
116
     
97
 
Tax expense
   
38
     
50
     
45
 
Net change in unrealized holding loss on securities held-to-maturity and transferred securities
   
47
     
66
     
52
 
Change in unrealized holding gain on securities available-for-sale:
                       
Change in net unrealized gain during the period
   
56
     
(176
)
   
(65
)
Reclassification adjustment for net gains included in net gain on securities
   
-
     
(1,384
)
   
(997
)
Net change
   
56
     
(1,560
)
   
(1,062
)
Tax expense (benefit)
   
26
     
(702
)
   
(479
)
Net change in unrealized holding gain on securities available-for-sale
   
30
     
(858
)
   
(583
)
Change in pension and other postretirement obligations:
                       
Reclassification adjustment for expense included in salaries and employee benefits expense
   
1,841
     
1,890
     
1,044
 
Change in the net actuarial gain or loss
   
-
     
(901
)
   
(6,986
)
Net change
   
1,841
     
989
     
(5,942
)
Tax expense (benefit)
   
832
     
451
     
(2,685
)
Net change in pension and other postretirement obligations
   
1,009
     
538
     
(3,257
)
Change in unrealized loss on derivative asset:
                       
Change in net unrealized loss during the period
   
3,205
     
-
     
-
 
Reclassification adjustment for expense included in interest expense
   
23
     
-
     
-
 
Net change
   
3,228
     
-
     
-
 
Tax expense
   
1,452
     
-
     
-
 
Net change in unrealized loss on derivative asset
   
1,776
     
-
     
-
 
Other comprehensive income (loss)
 
$
2,862
   
$
(254
)
 
$
(3,788
)

3.
INVESTMENT AND MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES

At December 31, 2016 and 2015, there were no holdings of investment securities of any one issuer in an amount greater than 10% of stockholders' equity.

The following tables summarize the major categories of securities owned by the Company (excluding trading securities) for the periods indicated:

   
At December 31, 2016
 
   
Amortized
Cost (1)
   
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
   
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
   
Fair
Value
 
Investment securities held-to-maturity:
                       
Pooled bank trust preferred securities (“TRUP CDOs”)
 
$
5,378
   
$
2,221
   
$
(303
)
 
$
7,296
 
                                 
Investment securities available-for-sale:
                               
Registered Mutual Funds
   
4,011
     
62
     
(178
)
   
3,895
 
Pass-through MBS issued by Government Sponsored Entities (“GSEs”)
   
360
     
12
     
-
     
372
 
Agency Collateralized Mortgage Obligation (“CMO”)
   
3,247
     
-
     
(61
)
   
3,186
 
Total investment securities available-for-sale
   
7,618
     
74
     
(239
)
   
7,453
 
Total investment securities
 
$
12,996
   
$
2,295
   
$
(542
)
 
$
14,749
 
 
(1)
Amount represents the purchase amortized / historical cost less any OTTI charges (credit or non-credit related) previously recognized.  For the TRUP CDOs, amount is also net of the $755 unamortized portion of the unrealized loss that was recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss on September 1, 2008 (the day on which these securities were transferred from available-for-sale to held-to-maturity).
 
   
At December 31, 2015
 
   
Amortized
Cost (1)
   
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
   
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
   
Fair
Value
 
Investment securities held-to-maturity:
                       
TRUP CDOs
 
$
5,242
   
$
2,154
   
$
(345
)
 
$
7,051
 
                                 
Investment securities available-for-sale:
                               
Registered Mutual Funds
   
3,990
     
25
     
(259
)
   
3,756
 
Pass-through MBS issued by GSEs
   
418
     
13
     
-
     
431
 
Total investment securities available-for-sale
   
4,408
     
38
     
(259
)
   
4,187
 
Total investment securities
 
$
9,650
   
$
2,192
   
$
(604
)
 
$
11,238
 
 
(1)
Amount represents the purchase amortized/historical cost less any OTTI charges (credit or non-credit related) previously recognized.  For the TRUP CDOs, amount is also net of the $807 unamortized portion of the unrealized loss that was recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss on September 1, 2008 (the day on which these securities were transferred from available-for-sale to held-to-maturity).

The held-to-maturity TRUP CDOs had a weighted average term to maturity of 18.0 years at December 31, 2016.  At December 31, 2016, available-for-sale pass-through MBS issued by GSEs possessed a weighted average contractual maturity of 11.1 years and a weighted average estimated duration of 1.0 year.  As of December 31, 2016, the available-for-sale agency CMO security had a weighted average term to maturity of 3.1 years.

There were no sales of investment securities held-to-maturity during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 or 2014.

There were no sales of registered mutual funds during the year ended December 31, 2016.  During the year ended December 31, 2015, gross proceeds from the sales of registered mutual funds totaled $2,070. Gross gains of $4 and gross losses of $8 were recognized on these sales.  During the year ended December 31, 2014, gross proceeds from the sales of registered mutual funds totaled $3,780. A gross gain of $997 was recognized on these sales and there were no gross recognized losses.

There were no sales of available-for-sale pass-through MBS issued by GSEs during the years ended December 31, 2016 or 2014. Proceeds from the sales of available-for-sale pass-through MBS issued by GSEs totaled $24,307 during the year ended December 31, 2015. Gross gains of $1,395 and gross losses of $7 were recognized on these sales.
 
There were no sales of agency CMO securities available-for-sale during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 or 2014.

Tax provisions related to the gains on sales of registered mutual funds and MBS available-for-sale recognized during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 are disclosed in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
 
The following table summarizes the gross unrealized losses and fair value of investment securities aggregated by investment category and the length of time the securities were in a continuous unrealized loss position for the periods indicated:
 
 
At December 31, 2016
 
Less than 12
Consecutive Months
   
12 Consecutive
Months or Longer
   
Total
   
Fair
Value
   
Unrealized
Losses
   
Fair
Value
   
Unrealized
Losses
   
Fair
Value
   
Unrealized
Losses
 
Investment securities held-to-maturity:
                                   
TRUP CDOs
 
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
2,439
   
$
303
   
$
2,439
   
$
303
 
                                                 
Investment securities available-for-sale:
                                               
Registered Mutual Funds
   
1,308
     
47
     
1,747
     
131
     
3,055
     
178
 
Agency CMO
   
3,186
     
61
     
-
     
-
     
3,186
     
61
 

  
At December 31, 2015
 
Less than 12
Consecutive Months
   
12 Consecutive
Months or Longer
   
Total
   
Fair
Value
   
Unrealized
Losses
   
Fair
Value
   
Unrealized
Losses
   
Fair
Value
   
Unrealized
Losses
 
Investment securities held-to-maturity:
                                   
TRUP CDOs
 
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
2,359
   
$
345
   
$
2,359
   
$
345
 
                                                 
Investment securities available-for-sale:
                                               
Registered Mutual Funds
   
3,026
     
259
     
-
     
-
     
3,026
     
259
 

TRUP CDOs That Have Maintained an Unrealized Holding Loss for 12 or More Consecutive Months

At December 31, 2016, there were two TRUP CDOs with unrealized holding losses 12 or more consecutive months.  The impairment of one of those TRUP CDOs was deemed temporary, as management believed that the full recorded balance of the investments would be realized.  In making this determination, management considered the following:

·
Based upon an internal review of the collateral backing the TRUP CDOs portfolio, which accounted for current and prospective deferrals, the securities could reasonably be expected to continue making all contractual payments
·
The Company does not intend to sell these securities prior to full recovery of their impairment
·
There were no cash or working capital requirements nor contractual or regulatory obligations that would compel the Company to sell these securities prior to their forecasted recovery or maturity
·
The securities have a pool of underlying issuers comprised primarily of banks
·
None of the securities have exposure to real estate investment trust issued debt (which has experienced high default rates)
·
The securities feature either a mandatory auction or a de-leveraging mechanism that could result in principal repayments to the Bank prior to the stated maturity of the security
·
The securities are adequately collateralized

The unrealized loss on the second TRUP CDO with unrealized holding losses for 12 or more consecutive months was considered to be other than temporary. See below for a discussion of OTTI.
 
TRUP CDOs with OTTI

On September 1, 2008, the Bank transferred eight TRUP CDOs ( i.e. , investment securities primarily secured by the preferred debt obligations of a pool of U.S. banks with a small portion secured by debt obligations of insurance companies) with an amortized cost of $19,922 from its available-for-sale portfolio to its held-to-maturity portfolio.  Based upon the lack of an orderly market for these securities, management determined that a formal election to hold them to maturity was consistent with its initial investment decision.  On the date of transfer, the unrealized loss of $8,420 on these securities continued to be recognized as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss within the Company's consolidated stockholders' equity (net of income tax benefit), and was expected to be amortized over the remaining average life of the securities, which approximated 21.1 years on a weighted average basis.  Activity related to this transfer loss was as follows:

  
For the Year Ended
December 31,
  
2016
   
2015
Cumulative balance at the beginning of the period
 
$
807
   
$
932
 
Amortization
   
(51
)
   
(125
)
Cumulative balance at end of the period
 
$
756
   
$
807
 

As of each reporting period through December 31, 2016, the Company has applied the protocol established by ASC 320-10-65 in order to determine whether OTTI existed for its TRUP CDOs and/or to measure, for TRUP CDOs that have been determined to be other than temporarily impaired, the credit related and non-credit related components of OTTI.  As of December 31, 2016, four TRUP CDOs were determined to meet the criteria for OTTI based upon this analysis.

The following table provides a reconciliation of the pre-tax OTTI charges recognized on the Company's TRUP CDOs:

  
At or for the Year Ended December 31, 2016
Credit Related OTTI
Recognized in Earnings
   
Non-Credit OTTI
Recognized in
Accumulated Other
Comprehensive Loss
   
Total OTTI
Charge
Cumulative pre-tax balance at the beginning of the period
 
$
8,717
   
$
578
   
$
9,295
 
Amortization of previously recognized OTTI
   
(104
)
   
(34
)
   
(138
)
Cumulative pre-tax balance at end of the period
 
$
8,613
   
$
544
   
$
9,157
 
 
    
At or for the Year Ended
December 31, 2015
   
At or for the Year Ended
December 31, 2014
  
Credit
Related
OTTI
Recognized
in Earnings
   
Non-Credit OTTI
Recognized in
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss
   
Total
OTTI
Charge
   
Credit
Related
OTTI
Recognized
in Earnings
   
Non-Credit OTTI
Recognized in
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss
   
Total
OTTI
Charge
Cumulative pre-tax balance at the beginning of  the period
 
$
8,945
   
$
569
   
$
9,514
   
$
8,945
   
$
601
   
$
9,546
 
(Amortization) Accretion of previously recognized OTTI
   
(228
)
   
9
     
(219
)
   
-
     
(32
)
   
(32
)
Cumulative pre-tax balance at end of the period
 
$
8,717
   
$
578
   
$
9,295
   
$
8,945
   
$
569
   
$
9,514
 

There was no activity related to OTTI charges recognized on the Company's registered mutual funds during the year ended December 31, 2016 or 2015. The following table provides a reconciliation of the pre-tax OTTI charges recognized on the Company's registered mutual funds for the year ended December 31, 2014:

   
At or For the Year
Ended December 31,
 
   
2014
 
Cumulative balance at the beginning of the period
 
$
106
 
Reduction of OTTI for securities sold during the period
   
(106
)
Cumulative balance at end of the period
 
$
-
 
 
4.
LOANS RECEIVABLE AND CREDIT QUALITY

Loans are reported at the principal amount outstanding (as adjusted for any amounts charged-off), net of unearned fees or costs, unamortized premiums and the allowance for loan losses.  Interest income on loans is recorded using the level yield method.  Under this method, discount accretion and premium amortization are included in interest income.  Loan origination fees and certain direct loan origination costs are deferred and amortized as yield adjustments over the contractual loan terms.
 
Credit Quality Indicators

On a quarterly basis, the Company categorizes loans into risk categories based on relevant information about the ability of borrowers to service their debt, such as:  current financial information, historical payment experience, credit structure, loan documentation, public information, and current economic trends, among other factors.  The Company analyzes loans individually by classifying them as to credit risk.  This analysis includes all loans, such as multifamily residential, mixed use residential ( i.e., loans in which the aggregate rental income of the underlying collateral property is generated from both residential and commercial units, but fifty percent or more of such income is generated from the residential units), mixed use commercial real estate ( i.e. ,   loans in which the aggregate rental income of the underlying collateral property is generated from both residential and commercial units, but over fifty percent of such income is generated from the commercial units), commercial real estate, as well as one-to four family residential and cooperative and condominium  apartment loans with balances in excess of the FNMA Limits that are deemed to meet the definition of impaired. Prior to the year ended December 31, 2016, the analysis of one-to-four family residential and cooperative and condominium apartment loans included only loans with balances in excess of the FNMA Limits that were deemed to meet the definition of impaired. The Company uses the following definitions for risk ratings:

Special Mention – Loans classified as special mention have a potential weakness that deserves management's close attention. If left uncorrected, these potential weaknesses may result in deterioration of the repayment prospects for the loan or of the Bank's credit position at some future date.

Substandard – Loans classified as substandard are inadequately protected by the current net worth and paying capacity of the obligor or of the collateral pledged, if any. Loans so classified have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses that jeopardize the liquidation of the debt. They are characterized by the distinct possibility that the Bank will sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected.

Doubtful – Loans classified as doubtful have all the weaknesses inherent in those classified as substandard, with the added characteristic that the weaknesses make collection or liquidation in full, on the basis of then existing facts, conditions, and values, highly questionable and improbable.

The Bank had no loans classified as doubtful at December 31, 2016 or December 31, 2015.

All real estate loans not classified as Special Mention, Substandard or Doubtful were deemed pass loans at both December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015.

The following is a summary of the credit risk profile of real estate loans (including deferred costs) by internally assigned grade as of the dates indicated:
 
 
At December 31, 2016
 
One- to Four-Family
Residential, Including
Condominium and
Cooperative
Apartment
   
Multifamily
Residential and
Residential
Mixed Use
   
Commercial
Mixed Use Real
Estate
   
Commercial
Real Estate
   
Total Real
Estate Loans
 
Pass
 
$
72,325
   
$
4,589,838
   
$
398,139
   
$
546,568
   
$
5,606,870
 
Special Mention
   
212
     
3,488
     
535
     
525
     
4,760
 
Substandard
   
1,485
     
7,200
     
5,465
     
7,227
     
21,377
 
Doubtful
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Total
 
$
74,022
   
$
4,600,526
   
$
404,139
   
$
554,320
   
$
5,633,007
 
 
   
At December 31, 2015 
 
One- to Four-Family
Residential, Including
Condominium and
Cooperative
Apartment
   
Multifamily
Residential and
Residential
Mixed Use
   
Commercial
Mixed Use Real
Estate
   
Commercial
Real Estate
   
Total Real
Estate Loans
 
Not Graded (1)
 
$
7,698
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
7,698
 
Pass
   
61,256
     
3,743,298
     
370,110
     
473,242
     
4,647,906
 
Special Mention
   
945
     
9,759
     
1,622
     
4,857
     
17,183
 
Substandard
   
2,196
     
6,850
     
5,543
     
7,810
     
22,399
 
Doubtful
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Total
 
$
72,095
   
$
3,759,907
   
$
377,275
   
$
485,909
   
$
4,695,186
 
 
(1)
Amount comprised of fully performing one- to four-family residential and condominium and cooperative unit loans with balances equal to or less than the FNMA Limits.
 
For consumer loans, the Company evaluates credit quality based on payment activity.  Consumer loans that are 90 days or more past due are placed on non-accrual status, while all remaining consumer loans are classified and evaluated as performing.

The following is a summary of the credit risk profile of consumer loans by internally assigned grade:

 
At December 31,
 
2016
   
2015
Performing
 
$
3,414
   
$
1,586
 
Non-accrual
   
1
     
4
 
Total
 
$
3,415
   
$
1,590
 

The following is a summary of the past due status of the Company's investment in loans (excluding accrued interest) as of the dates indicated:

 
At December 31, 2016 
  
30 to 59
Days Past
Due
   
60 to 89
Days Past
Due
   
Accruing
Loans 90
Days or
More Past
Due
   
Non-
accrual (1)
   
Total Past
Due
   
Current
   
Total Loans
Real Estate:
                                         
One- to four-family residential, including condominium and cooperative apartment
 
$
188
   
$
-
   
$
1,513
   
$
1,012
   
$
2,712
   
$
71,309
   
$
74,022
 
Multifamily residential and residential mixed use
   
-
     
-
     
1,557
     
2,675
     
4,232
     
4,596,294
     
4,600,526
 
Commercial mixed use real estate
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
549
     
549
     
403,590
     
404,139
 
Commercial real estate
   
1,732
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
1,732
     
552,588
     
554,320
 
Total real estate
 
$
1,920
   
$
-
   
$
3,070
   
$
4,236
   
$
9,226
   
$
5,623,781
   
$
5,633,007
 
Consumer
 
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
1
   
$
1
   
$
3,414
   
$
3,415
 
 
(1)
Includes all loans on non-accrual status regardless of the number of days such loans were delinquent as of December 31, 2016.
 
     
At December 31, 2015
  
30 to 59
Days Past
Due
   
60 to 89
Days Past
Due
   
Accruing
Loans 90
Days or
More Past
Due
   
Non-
accrual (1)
   
Total Past
Due
   
Current
   
Total Loans
Real Estate:
                                         
One- to four-family residential, including condominium and cooperative apartment
 
$
127
   
$
-
   
$
625
   
$
1,113
   
$
1,865
   
$
70,230
   
$
72,095
 
Multifamily residential and residential mixed use
   
2,235
     
-
     
2,514
     
287
     
5,036
     
3,754,871
     
3,759,907
 
Commercial mixed use real estate
   
-
     
406
     
406
     
-
     
812
     
376,463
     
377,275
 
Commercial real estate
   
200
     
-
     
987
     
207
     
1,394
     
484,515
     
485,909
 
Total real estate
 
$
2,562
   
$
406
   
$
4,532
   
$
1,607
   
$
9,107
   
$
4,686,079
   
$
4,695,186
 
Consumer
 
$
1
   
$
1
   
$
-
   
$
4
   
$
6
   
$
1,584
   
$
1,590
 
 
(1)
Includes all loans on non-accrual status regardless of the number of days such loans were delinquent as of December 31, 2015.
 
Accruing Loans 90 Days or More Past Due:

The Bank continued accruing interest on four real estate loans with an aggregate outstanding balance of $3,070 at December 31, 2016, and twelve real estate loans with an aggregate outstanding balance of $4,532 at December 31, 2015, all of which were 90 days or more past due on their respective contractual maturity dates.  These loans continued to make monthly payments consistent with their initial contractual amortization schedule exclusive of the balloon payments due at maturity.  These loans were well secured and were expected to be refinanced, and, therefore, remained on accrual status and were deemed performing assets at the dates indicated above.

TDRs

The following table summarizes outstanding TDRs by underlying collateral type as of the dates indicated:

     
As of December 31, 2016
   
As of December 31, 2015
  
No. of Loans
   
Balance
   
No. of Loans
   
Balance
Accruing TDRs:
                       
One- to four-family residential, including condominium and cooperative apartment
   
2
   
$
407
     
2
   
$
598
 
Multifamily residential and residential mixed use
   
3
     
658
     
3
     
696
 
Commercial mixed use real estate
   
1
     
4,261
     
1
     
4,344
 
Commercial real estate
   
1
     
3,363
     
1
     
3,428
 
Non-accruing TDRs:
                               
Commercial real estate
   
-
     
-
     
1
     
207
 
Total real estate
   
7
   
$
8,689
     
8
   
$
9,273
 

Accrual status for TDRs is determined separately for each TDR in accordance with the Bank’s policies for determining accrual or non-accrual status.  At the time an agreement is entered into between the Bank and the borrower that results in the Bank's determination that a TDR has been created, the loan can be on either accrual or non-accrual status.  If a loan is on non-accrual status at the time it is restructured, it continues to be classified as non-accrual until the borrower has demonstrated compliance with the modified loan terms for a period of at least six months.  Conversely, if at the time of restructuring the loan is performing (and accruing); it will remain accruing throughout its restructured period, unless the loan subsequently meets any of the criteria for non-accrual status under the Bank’s policy and agency regulations.

The Company has not restructured troubled consumer loans, as its consumer loan portfolio has not experienced any problem issues warranting restructuring.  Therefore, all TDRs were collateralized by real estate at both December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015.
 
The following table summarizes loan modifications during the period that met the definition of a TDR for the periods indicated:

     
For the Year Ended December 31
  
2016
   
2015
   
2014
One- to four-family residential, including condominium and cooperative apartment
                 
Number of Loans
   
1
     
-
     
-
 
Pre-Modification Outstanding Recorded Investment
 
$
33
   
$
-
     
-
 
Post-Modification Outstanding Recorded Investment
   
33
     
-
     
-
 
Commercial mixed use real estate
                       
Number of Loans
   
-
     
-
     
1
 
Pre-Modification Outstanding Recorded Investment
 
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
4,400
 
Post-Modification Outstanding Recorded Investment
   
-
     
-
     
4,400
 
Commercial real estate
                       
Number of Loans
   
-
     
-
     
1
 
Pre-Modification Outstanding Recorded Investment
 
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
3,500
 
Post-Modification Outstanding Recorded Investment
   
-
     
-
     
3,500
 
Total number of loans
   
1
     
-
     
2
 
Total Pre-Modification Outstanding Recorded Investment
 
$
33
   
$
-
   
$
7,900
 
Total Post-Modification Outstanding Recorded Investment
 
$
33
   
$
-
   
$
7,900
 
 
The Bank's allowance for loan losses at December 31, 2016 and 2015 included no allocated reserve associated with TDRs.  Activity related to reserves associated with TDRs was immaterial during the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015.

As of December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Bank had no loan commitments to borrowers with outstanding TDRs.

A TDR is considered to be in payment default once it is 90 days contractually past due under the modified terms.  All TDRs are considered impaired loans and are evaluated individually for measurable impairment, if any.

There were no TDRs which defaulted within twelve months following the modification during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 or 2014 (thus no significant impact to the allowance for loan losses during those periods).

The Bank may grant short term extensions ranging from 6 to 12 months on certain loans to borrowers.  These loans do not meet the definition of a TDR as they are modifications to borrowers who are not experiencing financial difficulty.

Impaired Loans

A loan is considered impaired when, based on then current information and events, it is probable that all contractual amounts due will not be collected in accordance with the terms of the loan.  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 or shortfalls generally are not classified as impaired.  Management determines the significance of payment delays and shortfalls on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration all of 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.

The Bank considers TDRs and non-accrual multifamily residential, mixed-use and commercial real estate loans, along with non-accrual one- to four-family loans in excess of the FNMA Limits, to be impaired.  Non-accrual one-to four-family loans equal to or less than the FNMA Limits, as well as all consumer loans, are considered homogeneous loan pools and are not required to be evaluated individually for impairment unless considered a TDR.
 
Impairment is typically measured using the difference between the outstanding loan principal balance and either: 1) the likely realizable value of a note sale; 2) the fair value of the underlying collateral, net of likely disposal costs, if repayment is expected to come from liquidation of the collateral; or 3) the present value of estimated future cash flows (using the loan’s pre-modification rate for certain performing TDRs).  If a TDR is substantially performing in accordance with its restructured terms, management will look to either the potential net liquidation proceeds of the underlying collateral or the present value of the expected cash flows from the debt service in measuring impairment (whichever is deemed most appropriate under the circumstances).  If a TDR has re-defaulted, generally the likely realizable net proceeds from either a note sale or the liquidation of the collateral is considered when measuring impairment.  Measured impairment is either charged off immediately or, in limited instances, recognized as an allocated reserve within the allowance for loan losses.

Please refer to Note 5 for tabular information related to impaired loans.
 
5.
ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES

The allowance for loan losses consists of specific and general components.  At December 31, 2016, the Bank’s periodic evaluation of its allowance for loan losses (specific or general) was comprised of two primary components: (1) impaired loans and (2) pass graded loans. At December 31, 2015, the Bank’s periodic evaluation of its allowance for loan losses (specific or general) was comprised of four primary components: (1) impaired loans; (2) non-impaired substandard loans; (3) non-impaired special mention loans; and (4) pass graded loans.  Within these components, the Company has identified the following portfolio segments for purposes of assessing its allowance for loan losses (specific or general): (1) real estate loans; and (2) consumer loans.  Consumer loans were evaluated in aggregate as of both December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015.

Real Estate Loans

Impaired Loan Component

All multifamily residential, mixed use, commercial real estate and construction loans that are deemed to meet the definition of impaired are individually evaluated for impairment.  In addition, all condominium or cooperative apartment and one- to four-family residential real estate loans in excess of the FNMA Limits are individually evaluated for impairment.  Impairment is typically measured using the difference between the outstanding loan principal balance and either: (1) the likely realizable value of a note sale; (2) the fair value of the underlying collateral, net of likely disposal costs, if repayment is expected to come from liquidation of the collateral; or (3) the present value of estimated future cash flows (using the loan's pre-modification rate in the case of certain performing TDRs).  For impaired loans on non-accrual status, either of the initial two measurements is utilized.

All TDRs are considered impaired loans and are evaluated individually for measurable impairment, if any.  If a TDR is substantially performing in accordance with its restructured terms, management will look to either the present value of the expected cash flows from the debt service or the potential net liquidation proceeds of the underlying collateral in measuring impairment (whichever is deemed most appropriate under the circumstances). If a TDR has re-defaulted, the likely realizable net proceeds from either a note sale or the liquidation of the collateral are generally considered when measuring impairment. While measured impairment is generally charged off immediately, impairment attributed to a reduction in the present value of expected cash flows of a performing TDR is generally reflected as an allocated reserve within the allowance for loan losses. At December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, there were no allocated reserves related to TDRs within the allowance for loan losses.

Smaller balance homogeneous real estate loans, such as condominium or cooperative apartment and one-to four-family residential real estate loans with balances equal to or less than the FNMA Limits, are collectively evaluated for impairment, and accordingly, are not separately identified for impairment disclosures.
 
Non-Impaired Loan Component as of December 31, 2016

During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Bank refined the calculation of the allowance for loan losses associated with non-impaired loans using third party software purchased by the Bank. The software model is substantially similar to the previous model used by the Bank whereby the primary drivers of the calculation are historical charge-offs by loan type and certain qualitative elements. The historical loss look-back period for Substandard and Special Mention non-impaired loans was expanded from the previously used twelve month period to a forty-eight month period, which is aligned with the same historical loss look-back period used for all Pass-graded loans.  Management has evaluated the impact of these changes and concluded that they are not material to the overall allowance for non-impaired loans.
 
The Bank initially looks to the underlying collateral type when determining the allowance for loan losses associated with pass graded real estate loans.  The following underlying collateral types are analyzed separately: 1) one- to four family residential and condominium or cooperative apartments; 2) multifamily residential and residential mixed use; 3) commercial mixed use real estate, 4) commercial real estate; and 5) construction and land acquisition.  Within the analysis of each underlying collateral type, the following elements are additionally considered and provided weighting in determining the allowance for loan losses for pass graded real estate loans:

(i)
Charge-off experience (including peer charge-off experience)
(ii)
Economic conditions
(iii)
Underwriting standards or experience
(iv)
Loan concentrations
(v)
Regulatory climate
(vi)
Nature and volume of the portfolio
(vii)
Changes in the quality and scope of the loan review function

The following is a brief synopsis of the manner in which each element is considered:

(i) Charge-off experience - Loans within the pass graded loan portfolio are segmented by significant common characteristics, against which historical loss rates are applied to reflect probable incurred loss percentages.  The Bank also reviews and considers the charge-off experience of peer banks in its lending marketplace in order to determine the existence of potential losses that could take a longer period to flow through its allowance for loan losses.

(ii) Economic conditions - At both December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Bank assigned a loss allocation to its entire pass graded real estate loan portfolio based, in part, upon a review of economic conditions affecting the local real estate market. Specifically, the Bank considered both the level of, and recent trends in: 1) the local and national unemployment rate, 2) residential and commercial vacancy rates, 3) real estate sales and pricing, and 4) delinquencies in the Bank’s loan portfolio.

(iii) Underwriting standards or experience - Underwriting standards are reviewed to ensure that changes in the Bank's lending policies and practices are adequately evaluated for risk and reflected in its analysis of potential credit losses.  Loss expectations associated with changes in the Bank’s lending policies and practices, if any, are then incorporated into the methodology.

(iv) Loan concentrations - The Bank regularly reviews its loan concentrations (borrower, collateral type and location) in order to ensure that heightened risk has not evolved that has not been captured through other factors.  The risk component of loan concentrations is regularly evaluated for reserve adequacy.

(v) Regulatory climate – Consideration is given to public statements made by the banking regulatory agencies that have a potential impact on the Bank’s loan portfolio and allowance for loan losses.

(vi) Nature and volume of the portfolio – The Bank considers any significant changes in the overall nature and volume of its loan portfolio.

(vii) Changes in the quality and scope of the loan review function – The Bank considers the potential impact upon its allowance for loan losses of any adverse change in the quality and scope of the loan review function.
 
Substandard and Special Mention Non-Impaired Loan Components as of December 31, 2015

At December 31, 2015, the reserve allocated within the allowance for loan losses associated with non-impaired loans internally classified as Substandard or Special Mention reflected expected loss percentages on the Bank's pool of such loans that were derived based upon an analysis of historical losses over the previous twelve month period for each loan component.  The loss percentage resulting from this analysis was then applied to the aggregate pool of non-impaired Substandard and Special Mention loans at December 31, 2015. The portion of the allowance for loan losses attributable to non-impaired Substandard loans was $348 at December 31, 2015. The portion of the allowance for loan losses attributable to non-impaired Special Mention loans was $88 at December 31, 2015.

All non-impaired Substandard loans were deemed sufficiently well secured and performing to have remained on accrual status both prior and subsequent to their downgrade to the Substandard internal loan grade at December 31, 2016 and 2015.
 
Consumer Loans

Due to their small individual balances, the Bank does not evaluate individual consumer loans for impairment.  Loss percentages are applied to aggregate consumer loans based upon both their delinquency status and loan type.  These loss percentages are derived from a combination of the Company’s historical loss experience and/or nationally published loss data on such loans.  Consumer loans in excess of 120 days delinquent are typically fully charged off against the allowance for loan losses.

The following table presents data regarding the allowance for loan losses activity for the periods indicated:

   
Real Estate Loans
       
   
One- to Four
Family
Residential,
Including
Condominium
and
Cooperative
Apartment
   
Multifamily
Residential
and
Residential
Mixed Use
   
Commercial
Mixed Use
Real Estate
   
Commercial
Real Estate
   
Construction
   
Total Real
Estate
   
Consumer
Loans
 
Beginning balance as of January 1, 2014
 
$
236
   
$
13,840
   
$
3,003
   
$
3,047
   
$
3
   
$
20,129
   
$
24
 
Provision (credit) for loan losses
   
(164
)
   
(76
)
   
(1,710
)
   
72
     
(3
)
   
(1,881
)
   
9
 
Charge-offs
   
(46
)
   
(87
)
   
(30
)
   
(306
)
   
-
     
(469
)
   
(9
)
Recoveries
   
124
     
175
     
381
     
10
     
-
     
690
     
-
 
Ending balance as of December 31, 2014
 
$
150
   
$
13,852
   
$
1,644
   
$
2,823
   
$
-
   
$
18,469
   
$
24
 
                                                         
Provision (credit) for loan losses
   
222
     
309
     
21
     
(1,880
)
   
-
     
(1,328
)
   
(2
)
Charge-offs
   
(115
)
   
(48
)
   
(37
)
   
(7
)
   
-
     
(207
)
   
(2
)
Recoveries
   
6
     
5
     
24
     
1,525
     
-
     
1,560
     
-
 
Ending balance as of December 31, 2015
 
$
263
   
$
14,118
   
$
1,652
   
$
2,461
   
$
-
   
$
18,494
   
$
20
 
                                                         
Provision (credit) for loan losses
   
(48
)
   
2,473
     
58
     
(366
)
   
-
     
2,117
     
1
 
Charge-offs
   
(79
)
   
(92
)
   
(12
)
   
-
     
-
     
(183
)
   
(3
)
Recoveries
   
9
     
56
     
-
     
23
     
-
     
88
     
2
 
Ending balance as of December 31, 2016
 
$
145
   
$
16,555
   
$
1,698
   
$
2,118
   
$
-
   
$
20,516
   
$
20
 
 
The following tables present the balance in the allowance for loan losses and the recorded investment in loans by portfolio segment and based on impairment method as of the periods indicated:

   
At or for the Year Ended December 31, 2016
 
   
Real Estate Loans
   
Consumer
Loans
 
   
One- to Four Family
Residential,
Including
Condominium and
Cooperative
Apartment
   
Multifamily
Residential
and
Residential
Mixed Use
   
Commercial
Mixed Use Real
Estate
   
Commercial
Real Estate
   
Total Real
Estate
 
Allowance for loan losses:
                                   
Ending allowance balance:
                                   
Individually evaluated for impairment
 
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
 
Collectively evaluated for impairment
   
145
     
16,555
     
1,698
     
2,118
     
20,516
     
20
 
Total ending allowance balance
 
$
145
   
$
16,555
   
$
1,698
   
$
2,118
   
$
20,516
   
$
20
 
                                                 
Loans:
                                               
Individually evaluated for impairment
 
$
407
   
$
3,333
     
4,810
   
$
3,363
   
$
11,913
   
$
-
 
Collectively evaluated for impairment
   
73,615
     
4,597,193
     
399,329
     
550,957
     
5,621,094
     
3,415
 
Total ending loans balance
 
$
74,022
   
$
4,600,526
   
$
404,139
   
$
554,320
   
$
5,633,007
   
$
3,415
 
   
   
At or for the Year Ended December 31, 2015
 
   
Real Estate Loans
   
Consumer
Loans
 
   
One- to Four
Family Residential,
Including
Condominium and
Cooperative
Apartment
   
Multifamily
Residential
and
Residential
Mixed Use
   
Commercial
Mixed Use Real
Estate
   
Commercial
Real Estate
   
Total Real
Estate
 
Allowance for loan losses:
                                   
Ending allowance balance:
                                   
Individually evaluated for impairment
 
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
 
Collectively evaluated for impairment
   
263
     
14,118
     
1,652
     
2,461
     
18,494
     
20
 
Total ending allowance balance
 
$
263
   
$
14,118
   
$
1,652
   
$
2,461
   
$
18,494
   
$
20
 
                                                 
Loans:
                                               
Individually evaluated for impairment
 
$
598
   
$
983
   
$
4,345
   
$
3,635
   
$
9,561
   
$
-
 
Collectively evaluated for impairment
   
71,497
     
3,758,924
     
372,930
     
482,274
     
4,685,625
     
1,590
 
Total ending loans balance
 
$
72,095
   
$
3,759,907
   
$
377,275
   
$
485,909
   
$
4,695,186
   
$
1,590
 

There were no impaired real estate loans with a related allowance recorded for the years ended December 31, 2016 or 2015. The following tables summarize impaired real estate loans with no related allowance recorded as of the periods indicated (by collateral type within the real estate loan segment):

   
For the Year Ended December 31, 2016
   
For the Year Ended December 31, 2015
 
   
Unpaid
 Principal
 Balance
   
Recorded
 Investment (1)
   
Related
 Allowance
   
Unpaid
 Principal
Balance
   
Recorded
 Investment (1)
   
Related
Allowance
 
                                     
With no related allowance recorded:
                                   
One- to Four Family Residential, Including Condominium and Cooperative Apartment
 
$
407
   
$
407
   
$
-
   
$
635
   
$
598
   
$
-
 
Multifamily Residential and Residential Mixed Use
   
3,333
     
3,333
     
-
     
983
     
983
     
-
 
Commercial Mixed Use Real Estate
   
4,810
     
4,810
     
-
     
4,345
     
4,345
     
-
 
Commercial Real Estate
   
3,363
     
3,363
     
-
     
3,642
     
3,635
     
-
 
Total with no related allowance recorded
   
11,913
     
11,913
     
-
     
9,605
     
9,561
     
-
 
                                                 
Ending balance
 
$
11,913
   
$
11,913
   
$
-
   
$
9,605
   
$
9,561
   
$
-
 
 
(1)
The recorded investment excludes accrued interest receivable and loan origination fees, net, due to immateriality.
 
The following table presents information for impaired loans for the periods indicated:

   
For the Year Ended
December 31, 2016
   
For the Year Ended
December 31, 2015
   
For the Year Ended
December 31, 2014
 
   
Average
Recorded
Investment
   
Interest
Income
Recognized
   
Average
Recorded
Investment
   
Interest
Income
Recognized
   
Average
Recorded
Investment
   
Interest
Income
Recognized
 
                               
With no related allowance recorded:
                                   
One- to Four Family Residential, Including Condominium and Cooperative Apartment
 
$
443
   
$
53
   
$
601
   
$
44
   
$
747
   
$
58
 
Multifamily Residential and Residential Mixed Use
   
2,515
     
183
     
1,095
     
71
     
2,147
     
87
 
Commercial Mixed Use Real Estate
   
4,468
     
176
     
4,379
     
176
     
2,640
     
237
 
Commercial Real Estate
   
3,437
     
136
     
5,470
     
140
     
7,470
     
148
 
Total with no related allowance recorded
   
10,863
     
548
     
11,545
     
431
     
13,004
     
530
 
                                                 
With related allowance recorded:
                                               
One- to Four Family Residential, Including Condominium and Cooperative Apartment
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
41
     
-
 
Multifamily Residential and Residential Mixed Use
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
1,760
     
-
 
Commercial Mixed Use Real Estate
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Commercial Real Estate
   
-
     
-
     
1,100
     
97
     
9,317
     
495
 
Total with related allowance recorded
   
-
     
-
     
1,100
     
97
     
11,118
     
495
 
                                                 
Ending balance
 
$
10,863
   
$
548
   
$
12,645
   
$
528
   
$
24,122
   
$
1,025
 
 
6.
PREMISES AND FIXED ASSETS, NET AND PREMISES HELD FOR SALE

The following is a summary of premises and fixed assets, net and premises held for sale:

   
At December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
 
Land
 
$
1,600
   
$
1,647
 
Buildings
   
11,972
     
17,316
 
Leasehold improvements
   
18,590
     
12,125
 
Furniture, fixtures and equipment
   
14,964
     
14,756
 
Premises and fixed assets, gross
 
$
47,126
   
$
45,844
 
Less:  accumulated depreciation and amortization
   
(28,721
)
   
(30,694
)
Premises and fixed assets, net
 
$
18,405
   
$
15,150
 
Premises held for sale (1)
 
$
1,379
   
$
8,799
 
 
(1)
At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company had executed contracts of sale on real estate with net book values of $1,379 and $8,799, respectively.

Depreciation and amortization expense amounted to approximately $2,223, $2,604 and $2,630 during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company completed the sale of premises held for sale with an aggregate recorded balance of $8,799 at December 31, 2015.  Proceeds from the sale were $75,899, and a gain of $68,183 was recognized on the sale.  There were no sales of premises and fixed assets during the year ended December 31, 2015. Proceeds from the sales of premises and fixed assets were $ 4,273 during the year ended December 31, 2014.  A gain of $649 was recognized on these sales.

During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company re-classified certain real estate utilized as a retail branch and principal office of the Company and the Bank to premises held for sale. The aggregate recorded balance of the premises held for sale was $1,379 at December 31, 2016, the outstanding balance upon transfer. The net proceeds from the sale are expected to exceed the current book value.
 
7.
FHLBNY CAPITAL STOCK

The Bank is a Savings Bank Member of the FHLBNY.  Membership requires the purchase of shares of FHLBNY capital stock at $100 per share. The Bank owned 444,439 shares and 587,131 shares at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The Bank recorded dividend income on the FHLBNY capital stock of $2,501, $2,226 and $2,091 during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
 
8.
DUE TO DEPOSITORS

Deposits are summarized as follows:

   
At December 31, 2016
   
At December 31, 2015
 
   
Effective
Cost
   
Liability
   
Effective
Cost
   
Liability
 
Savings accounts
   
0.05
%
 
$
366,921
     
0.05
%
 
$
368,671
 
Certificates of deposit ("CDs")
   
1.47
     
1,048,465
     
1.44
     
858,847
 
Money market accounts
   
0.86
     
2,576,081
     
0.81
     
1,618,617
 
Interest bearing checking accounts
   
0.08
     
106,525
     
0.08
     
78,994
 
Non-interest bearing checking accounts
   
-
     
297,434
     
-
     
259,181
 
TOTAL
   
0.86
%
 
$
4,395,426
     
0.81
%
 
$
3,184,310
 

The following table presents a summary of scheduled maturities of CDs outstanding at December 31, 2016:

   
Maturing
Balance
   
Weighted
Average
Interest
Rate
 
2017
 
$
459,800
     
1.23
%
2018
   
351,003
     
1.58
 
2019
   
177,540
     
1.81
 
2020
   
43,074
     
1.64
 
2021
   
14,355
     
1.64
 
2022 and beyond
   
2,693
     
1.64
 
TOTAL
 
$
1,048,465
     
1.47
%

CDs that met or exceeded the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) Insurance limit of two-hundred and fifty thousand dollars were approximately $203,308 and $138,022 at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

9.
DERIVATIVES AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES
 
Cash Flow Hedges of Interest Rate Risk

The Company’s objectives in using interest rate derivatives are to add stability to interest expense and to manage its exposure to interest rate movements. To accomplish this objective, the Company primarily uses interest rate swaps as part of its interest rate risk management strategy.  Interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges involve the receipt of variable amounts from a counterparty in exchange for the Company making fixed-rate payments over the life of the agreements without exchange of the underlying notional amount.

The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives designated and that qualify as cash flow hedges is recorded in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss and is subsequently reclassified into earnings in the period that the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings. During the year ended December 31, 2016, such derivatives were used to hedge the variability in cash flows associated with wholesale borrowings, i.e., FHBLNY advances.  The ineffective portion of the change in fair value of the derivatives is recognized directly in earnings. During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company did not record any hedge ineffectiveness. The Company did not have any derivatives outstanding prior to the year ended December 31, 2016.
 
Amounts reported in accumulated other comprehensive loss related to derivatives are reclassified to interest expense as interest payments are paid on the Company’s liabilities.

The table below presents the fair value of the Company’s derivative financial instruments as well as their classification on the Consolidated Statement of Financial Condition:

   
At December 31, 2016
 
   
Count
   
Notional
Amount
   
Fair Value
Assets
   
Fair Value
Liabilities
 
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
                       
Interest Rate Products
   
4
   
$
90,000
   
$
3,228
   
$
-
 
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments
   
4
   
$
90,000
   
$
3,228
   
$
-
 
 
Weighted average pay rates
1.24%
Weighted average receive rates
0.95%
Weighted average maturity
5.32 years

The table below presents the effect of the Company’s derivative financial instruments on the amount of gain or (loss) in the Consolidated Statements of Income as of December 31, 2016:

   
At or for the Year
Ended December 31, 2016
 
   
Amount of Gain or
(Loss)
Recognized in Other
Comprehensive Income
(Effective Portion)
   
Amount of Gain or (Loss)
Reclassified from Other
Comprehensive Income
into Interest Expense
(Effective Portion)
   
Amount of Gain or
(Loss) Recognized in
Other
Non-Interest Expense
(Ineffective Portion)
 
Interest Rate Products
 
$
3,205
   
$
23
   
$
-
 

The table below presents a gross presentation, the effects of offsetting, and a net presentation of the Company’s derivatives as of December 31, 2016. The net amounts of derivative assets or liabilities can be reconciled to the tabular disclosure of fair value. The tabular disclosure of fair value provides the location that derivative assets and liabilities are presented in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition.

Offsetting of Derivative Assets as of December 31, 2016:

      
Gross
Amounts of
Recognized
Assets
       
Gross
Amounts
Offset in the
Statements
of Financial
Condition
     
Net
Amounts of
Assets
presented in
the
Statements
of Financial
Condition
     
Gross Amounts Not Offset in
the Statements of Financial
Condition
     
Net
Amount
  
Financial
Instruments
   
Cash
Collateral
Received
Included in other assets:
                                   
Interest rate swaps related to FHLB Advances
 
$
3,228
   
$
-
   
$
3,228
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
3,228
 

The Company’s  agreements with each of its derivative counterparties state that if the Company defaults on any of its indebtedness, it could also be declared in default on its derivative obligations and could be required to terminate its derivative positions with the counterparty.

The Company’s agreements with certain of its derivative counterparties state that if the Bank fails to maintain its status as a well-capitalized institution, the Bank could be required to terminate its derivative positions with the counterparty.

As of December 31, 2016, the termination value of derivatives in a net liability position, which includes accrued interest but excludes any adjustment for nonperformance risk, related to these agreements was $3,377. If the Company had breached any of the above provisions at December 31, 2016, it could have been required to settle its obligations under the agreements at the termination value and would have been required to pay any additional amounts due in excess of amounts previously posted as collateral with the respective counterparty. There were no provisions breached for the period ended December 31, 2016.
 
10.
FHLBNY ADVANCES

The Bank had borrowings from the FHLBNY (''Advances'') totaling   $831,125 and $1,166,725 at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, all of which were fixed rate. The average interest cost of FHLBNY Advances was 1.45%, 1.65%, and 2.28% during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.  The average interest rate on outstanding FHLBNY Advances was 1.57% and 1.32% at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.  In accordance with its Advances, Collateral Pledge and Security Agreement with the FHLBNY, the Bank was eligible to borrow up to $2,096,600 as of December 31, 2016 and $1,754,957 as of December 31, 2015, and maintained sufficient qualifying collateral, as defined by the FHLBNY, with the FHLBNY (principally real estate loans), to secure Advances in excess of its borrowing limit at both December 31, 2016 and 2015.  Certain of the FHLBNY Advances outstanding at December 31, 2016 contained call features that may be exercised by the FHLBNY.  Prepayment penalties were associated with all fixed rate Advances outstanding as of December 31, 2016 and 2015.
 
There were no prepayments of FHLBNY Advances during the years ended December 31, 2016 or 2014.  During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company prepaid $25,000 of FHLBNY Advances, incurring a prepayment cost of $1,362.  The prepayment cost was recognized in interest expense.

The following table presents a summary of scheduled maturities of FHLBNY Advances outstanding at December 31, 2016:

   
Maturing
Balance
   
Weighted Average
Interest Rate
 
2017
 
$
502,075
     
1.53
%
2018
   
92,100
     
1.56
 
2019
   
131,150
     
1.53
 
2020
   
92,800
     
1.73
 
2021
   
13,000
     
2.68
 
TOTAL
 
$
831,125
     
1.57
%

11.
TRUST PREFERRED SECURITIES PAYABLE

On March 19, 2004, the Holding Company completed an offering of trust preferred securities through Dime Community Capital Trust I, an unconsolidated special purpose entity formed for the purpose of the offering.  The trust preferred securities bear a fixed interest rate of 7.0%, mature on April 14, 2034, and became callable without penalty at any time on or after April 15, 2009.  The outstanding balance of the trust preferred securities was $70,680 at both December 31, 2016 and 2015.  The Holding Company currently does not intend to call this debt.

Interest expense recorded on the trust preferred securities totaled $5,024 during each of the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

12.
INCOME TAXES

The Company's consolidated Federal, State and City income tax provisions were comprised of the following:

   
Year Ended
December 31, 2016
   
Year Ended
December 31, 2015
   
Year Ended
December 31, 2014
 
   
Federal
   
State
and City
   
Total
   
Federal
   
State
and City
   
Total
   
Federal
   
State
and City
   
Total
 
Current
 
$
42,834
   
$
17,026
   
$
59,860
   
$
21,127
   
$
3,235
   
$
24,362
   
$
21,232
   
$
8,121
   
$
29,353
 
Deferred
   
702
     
395
     
1,097
     
2,269
     
4,614
     
6,883
     
540
     
231
     
771
 
TOTAL
 
$
43,536
   
$
17,421
   
$
60,957
   
$
23,396
   
$
7,849
   
$
31,245
   
$
21,772
   
$
8,352
   
$
30,124
 

The preceding table excludes tax effects recorded directly to stockholders’ equity in connection with unrealized gains and losses on securities available-for-sale (including losses on such securities upon their transfer to held-to-maturity), stock-based compensation plans, and adjustments to other comprehensive income relating to the minimum pension liability, unrecognized gains of pension and other postretirement obligations and changes in the non-credit component of OTTI.  These tax effects are disclosed as part of the presentation of the consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity and Comprehensive Income.
 
The provision for income taxes differed from that computed at the Federal statutory rate as follows:
 
   
Year Ended December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
   
2014
 
Tax at Federal statutory rate
 
$
46,715
   
$
26,606
   
$
26,029
 
State and local taxes, net of federal income tax benefit
   
11,323
     
5,102
     
5,466
 
ESOP acceleration expense
   
3,962
     
-
     
-
 
Benefit plan differences
   
(54
)
   
(59
)
   
(156
)
Adjustments for prior period returns and tax items
   
(13
)
   
590
     
(164
)
Investment in BOLI
   
(957
)
   
(842
)
   
(610
)
Other, net
   
(19
)
   
(152
)
   
(441
)
TOTAL
 
$
60,957
   
$
31,245
   
$
30,124
 
Effective tax rate
   
45.67
%
   
41.10
%
   
40.51
%

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recorded for temporary differences between the book and tax bases of assets and liabilities.  The components of Federal, State and City deferred income tax assets and liabilities were as follows:

   
At December 31,
 
Deferred tax assets:
 
2016
   
2015
 
Allowance for loan losses
 
$
9,203
   
$
8,303
 
Employee benefit plans
   
15,630
     
18,849
 
Tax effect of other components of income on investment securities and MBS
   
-
     
722
 
Other
   
2,209
     
1,768
 
Total deferred tax assets
   
27,042
     
29,642
 
Deferred tax liabilities:
               
Tax effect of other components of income on investment securities and MBS
   
766
     
-
 
Difference in book and tax carrying value of fixed assets
   
776
     
667
 
Difference in book and tax basis of unearned loan fees
   
3,021
     
2,761
 
Other
   
214
     
448
 
Total deferred tax liabilities
   
4,777
     
3,876
 
Net deferred tax asset (recorded in other assets)
 
$
22,265
   
$
25,766
 

No valuation allowances were recognized on deferred tax assets during the years ended December 31, 2016 or 2015, since, at each period end, it was deemed more likely than not that the deferred tax assets would be fully realized.

At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Bank had accumulated bad debt reserves totaling $15,158 for which no provision for income tax was required to be recorded. These bad debt reserves could be subject to recapture into taxable income under certain circumstances, including a distribution of the bad debt benefits to the Holding Company or the failure of the Bank to qualify as a bank for federal income tax purposes.  Should the reserves as of December 31, 2016 be fully recaptured, the Bank would recognize $6,844 in additional income tax expense.    Should the reserves as of December 31, 2015 be fully recaptured, the Bank would recognize $6,844 in additional income tax expense.  The Company expects to take no action in the foreseeable future that would require the establishment of a tax liability associated with these bad debt reserves.
 
The Company is subject to regular examination by various tax authorities in jurisdictions in which it conducts significant business operations.  The Company regularly assesses the likelihood of additional examinations in each of the tax jurisdictions resulting from ongoing assessments.
 
Under current accounting rules, all tax positions adopted are subjected to two levels of evaluation.  Initially, a determination is made, based on the technical merits of the position, as to whether it is more likely than not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes. In conducting this evaluation, management is required to presume that the position will be examined by the appropriate taxing authority possessing full knowledge of all relevant information. The second level of evaluation is the measurement of a tax position that satisfies the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold.  This measurement is performed in order to determine the amount of benefit to recognize in the financial statements. The tax position is measured at the largest amount of benefit that is greater than 50 percent likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement.  The Company had no unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2016 or 2015.  The Company does not anticipate any material change to unrecognized tax benefits during the year ending December 31, 2017.
 
As of December 31, 2016, the tax years ended December 31, 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016 remained subject to examination by all of the Company's relevant tax jurisdictions.  While the Company is currently under audit by certain taxing jurisdictions, no material impact to the financial statements is expected to result from these examinations.

13.
401(K) PLAN AND ESOP

401(K) Plan

The Bank also maintains the 401(k) Plan, which covers substantially all of its employees.  The Bank made discretionary contributions totaling $638, $692 and $701 to eligible 401(k) Plan participants during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively, which were recognized as a component of salaries and employee benefits expense.

The 401(k) Plan owned participant investments in Common Stock for the accounts of participants totaling $11,723 and $9,721 at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

ESOP

The Holding Company adopted the ESOP in connection with the Bank's June 26, 1996 conversion to stock ownership.  The ESOP borrowed $11,638 from the Holding Company and used the funds to purchase 3,927,825 shares of Common Stock.  The loan was originally to be repaid principally from the Bank's discretionary contributions to the ESOP over a period of time not to exceed 10 years from the date of the conversion.  Effective July 1, 2000, the loan agreement was amended to extend the repayment period to thirty years from the date of the conversion, with the right of optional prepayment.

Shares purchased with the loan proceeds are held in a suspense account for allocation among participants as the loan is repaid.  Shares released from the ESOP suspense account are allocated among participants on the basis of compensation, as defined in the plan, in the year of allocation.  ESOP distributions vest at a rate of 25% per year of service, beginning after two years, with full vesting after five years or upon attainment of age 65, death, disability, retirement or a "change of control" of the Holding Company as defined in the ESOP.  Common Stock allocated to participating employees as part of the annual allocation totaled 78,155 shares during each of the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015.
 
During the year ended December 31, 2016, the ESOP returned 140,260 shares from the suspense account to the Holding Company to pay off the outstanding $2,819 balance of the ESOP loan remaining after the 2016 annual share allocation. In conjunction with the prepayment of the outstanding loan balance, the remaining 563,127 shares were allocated to active participants in the plan as of December 31, 2016, resulting in a one-time, non-cash, non-tax deductible expense of $11,319 which is recorded in stock benefit plan compensation expense. The loan had an outstanding balance of $3,028 at December 31, 2015, and a fixed rate of 8.0%.
 
ESOP benefit expense is recorded based upon the fair value of the award shares, and totaled $1,783, $1,754 and $1,730, for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.  Included in ESOP expense were dividends on unallocated Common Stock that were paid to participants.  These dividends totaled $438, $481 and $525 during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
 
The Company has received approval by its Board of Directors to merge the ESOP into the 401(k) Plan during 2017.
 
14.
EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

Employee Retirement Plan

The Bank sponsors the Employee Retirement Plan, a tax-qualified, noncontributory, defined-benefit retirement plan.  Prior to April 1, 2000, substantially all full-time employees of at least 21 years of age were eligible for participation after one year of service.  Effective April 1, 2000, the Bank froze all participant benefits under the Employee Retirement Plan.  For the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Bank used December 31 st as its measurement date for the Employee Retirement Plan.
 
The funded status of the Employee Retirement Plan was as follows:
 
   
At December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
 
Accumulated benefit obligation at end of period
 
$
25,297
   
$
25,396
 
Reconciliation of Projected benefit obligation:
               
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of period
 
$
25,396
   
$
27,635
 
Interest cost
   
979
     
998
 
Actuarial loss (gain)
   
215
     
(1,796
)
Benefit payments
   
(1, 293
)
   
(1,289
)
Settlements
   
-
     
(152
)
Projected benefit obligation at end of period
   
25,297
     
25,396
 
                 
Plan assets at fair value (investments in trust funds managed by trustee)
               
Balance at beginning of period
   
22,676
     
24,457
 
Return (loss) on plan assets
   
1,957
     
(355
)
Contributions
   
15
     
15
 
Benefit payments
   
(1, 293
)
   
(1,289
)
Settlements
   
-
     
(152
)
Balance at end of period
   
23,355
     
22,676
 
Funded status at end of year
 
$
(1,942
)
 
$
(2,720
)

The net periodic cost for the Employee Retirement Plan included the following components:

   
Year Ended December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
   
2014
 
Interest cost
 
$
979
   
$
998
   
$
1,003
 
Expected return on plan assets
   
(1,532
)
   
(1,656
)
   
(1,774
)
Amortization of unrealized loss
   
1,551
     
1,677
     
948
 
Net periodic cost
 
$
998
   
$
1,019
   
$
177
 

The change in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that resulted from the Employee Retirement Plan is summarized as follows:

   
At December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
 
Balance at beginning of period
 
$
(12,001
)
 
$
(13,463
)
Amortization of unrealized loss
   
1,551
     
1,677
 
Gain (Loss) recognized during the year
   
210
     
(215
)
Balance at the end of the period
 
$
(10,240
)
 
$
(12,001
)
Period end component of accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax
 
$
5,613
     
6,582
 
 
Major assumptions utilized to determine the net periodic cost of the Employee Retirement Plan benefit obligations were as follows:

   
At or for the Year Ended December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
   
2014
 
Discount rate used for net periodic cost
   
3.98
%
   
3.72
%
   
4.56
%
Discount rate used to determine benefit obligation at period end
   
3.82
     
3.98
     
3.72
 
Expected long-term return on plan assets used for net periodic cost
   
7.00
     
7.00
     
7.50
 
Expected long-term return on plan assets used to determine benefit obligation at period end
   
7.00
     
7.00
     
7.00
 
 
The Employee Retirement Plan assets are invested in two diversified investment portfolios of the Pentegra Retirement Trust (the “Trust”).  The Trust, a private placement investment trust, has been granted discretion by the Bank to determine the appropriate strategic asset allocations (as governed by its Investment Policy Statement) to meet estimated plan liabilities.

The Employee Retirement Plan’s asset allocation targets holding 65% of assets in equity securities via investment in the Long-Term Growth Equity Portfolio (“LTGE”), 34% in intermediate-term investment grade bonds via investment in the Long-Term Growth Fixed-Income Portfolio (“LTGFI”), and 1% in a cash equivalents portfolio (for liquidity).  Asset rebalancing is performed at least annually, with interim adjustments when the investment mix varies in excess of 10% from the target.

The LTGE is a diversified portfolio of six registered mutual funds and seven common collective trust funds.  The LTGE holds a diversified mix of equity funds in order to gain exposure to the U.S. and non-U.S. equity markets. The common collective investment funds held by the LTGE were privately offered, and the Employee Retirement Plan's investment in these common collective investment funds was therefore valued by the fund managers of each respective fund based on the Employee Retirement Plan’s proportionate share of units of beneficial interest in the respective funds.  All of the common collective investment funds are audited, and the overwhelming majority of assets held in these funds (which derive the unit value of the common collective investment funds) are actively traded in established marketplaces.  The six registered mutual funds held by the LTGE are all actively traded on national securities exchanges and are valued at their quoted market prices.

The LTGFI is a diversified portfolio that invests in four intermediate-term bond funds, all of which are registered mutual funds.  These mutual funds are actively traded on national securities exchanges and are valued at their quoted market prices.

The investment goal is to achieve investment results that will contribute to the proper funding of the Employee Retirement Plan by exceeding the rate of inflation over the long-term.  In addition, investment managers for the trust function managing the assets of the Employee Retirement Plan are expected to provide a reasonable return on investment.  Performance volatility is also monitored.  Risk and volatility are further managed by the distinct investment objectives of each of the trust funds and the diversification within each fund.

The weighted average allocation by asset category of the assets of the Employee Retirement Plan was summarized as follows:

   
At December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
 
Asset Category
           
Equity securities
   
62
%
   
58
%
Debt securities (bond mutual funds)
   
36
     
40
 
Cash equivalents
   
2
     
2
 
Total
   
100
%
   
100
%

The allocation percentages in the above table were consistent with future planned allocation percentages as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.
 
The following tables present a summary of the Employee Retirement Plan’s investments measured at fair value on a recurring basis by level within the fair value hierarchy, as of the dates indicated.  (See Note 17 for a discussion of the fair value hierarchy).
 
   
Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2016
       
Description
 
Quoted Prices
in Active
Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
   
Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs (Level 2)
   
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
   
Total
 
Mutual Funds (all registered and publicly traded) :
                       
Domestic Large Cap
 
$
2, 627
     
-
     
-
   
$
2, 627
 
Domestic Mid Cap
   
1,189
     
-
     
-
     
1,189
 
Domestic Small Cap
   
485
     
-
     
-
     
485
 
International Equity
   
2,657
     
-
     
-
     
2,657
 
Fixed Income
   
8,408
     
-
     
-
     
8,408
 
Cash equivalents
   
366
     
-
     
-
     
366
 
Common collective investment funds:
                               
Domestic Large Cap
   
-
     
4,784
     
-
     
4,784
 
Domestic Mid Cap
   
-
     
638
     
-
     
638
 
Domestic Small Cap
   
-
     
1,405
     
-
     
1,405
 
International Equity
   
-
     
796
     
-
     
796
 
Total Plan Assets
                         
$
23,355
 
 
   
Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2015
       
Description
 
Quoted Prices
in Active
Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
   
Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs (Level 2)
   
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
   
Total
 
Mutual Funds (all registered and publicly traded) :
                       
Domestic Large Cap
 
$
2,617
     
-
     
-
   
$
2,617
 
Domestic Mid Cap
   
1,098
     
-
     
-
     
1,098
 
Domestic Small Cap
   
402
     
-
     
-
     
402
 
International Equity
   
2,551
     
-
     
-
     
2,551
 
Fixed Income
   
9,140
     
-
     
-
     
9,140
 
Cash equivalents
   
338
     
-
     
-
     
338
 
Common collective investment funds:
                               
Domestic Large Cap
   
-
     
4,028
     
-
     
4,028
 
Domestic Mid Cap
   
-
     
541
     
-
     
541
 
Domestic Small Cap
   
-
     
1,184
     
-
     
1,184
 
International Equity
   
-
     
777
     
-
     
777
 
Total Plan Assets
                         
$
22,676
 

The expected long-term rate of return assumptions on Employee Retirement Plan assets were established based upon historical returns earned by equities and fixed income securities, adjusted to reflect expectations of future returns as applied to the Employee Retirement Plan's target allocation of asset classes.  Equities and fixed income securities were assumed to earn real annual rates of return in the ranges of 4% to 9% and 0% to 5%, respectively.  The long-term inflation rate was estimated to be 2.5%.  When these overall return expectations were applied to the Employee Retirement Plan's target allocation, the expected annual rate of return was determined to be 7.00% at both December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015.

The Bank contributed $15 to the Employee Retirement Plan during the year ended December 31, 2016.  The Bank expects to make contributions in the amount of $15 to the Employee Retirement Plan during the year ending December 31, 2017.

Benefit payments are anticipated to be made as follows:

   
Amount
 
2017
 
$
1,602
 
2018
   
1,599
 
2019
   
1,604
 
2020
   
1,595
 
2021
   
1,574
 
2022 to 2026
   
7,634
 
 
BMP and Director Retirement Plan

The Holding Company and Bank maintain the BMP, which exists in order to compensate executive officers for any curtailments in benefits due to statutory limitations on benefit plans.  As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, the BMP had investments, held in a rabbi trust, in the Common Stock of $11,981 and $14,402, respectively.  Benefit accruals under the defined benefit portion of the BMP were suspended on April 1, 2000, when they were suspended under the Employee Retirement Plan.
 
Effective July 1, 1996, the Company established the Director Retirement Plan to provide benefits to each eligible outside director commencing upon the earlier of termination of Board service or at age 75.  The Director Retirement Plan was frozen on March 31, 2005, and only outside directors serving prior to that date are eligible for benefits.
 
As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Bank used December 31 st as its measurement date for both the BMP and Director Retirement Plan.

The combined funded status of the defined benefit portions of the BMP and the Director Retirement Plan was as follows:

   
At December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
 
Accumulated benefit obligation at end of period
 
$
11,351
   
$
11,062
 
Reconciliation of projected benefit obligation:
               
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of period
 
$
11,062
   
$
11,077
 
Interest cost
   
392
     
375
 
Benefit payments
   
(234
)
   
(171
)
Actuarial loss (gain)
   
131
     
(219
)
Projected benefit obligation at end of period
   
11,351
     
11,062
 
Plan assets at fair value:
               
Balance at beginning of period
   
-
     
-
 
Contributions
   
234
     
171
 
Benefit payments
   
(234
)
   
(171
)
Balance at end of period
   
-
     
-
 
Funded status at the end of the year:
 
$
(11,351
)
 
$
(11,062
)

The combined net periodic cost for the defined benefit portions of the BMP and the Director Retirement Plan included the following components:

   
Year Ended December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
   
2014
 
Interest cost
 
$
392
   
$
375
   
$
347
 
Amortization of unrealized loss
   
161
     
242
     
98
 
Net periodic cost
 
$
553
   
$
617
   
$
445
 

The combined change in accumulated other comprehensive income that resulted from the BMP and Director Retirement Plan is summarized as follows:

   
At December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
 
Balance at beginning of period
 
$
(2,788
)
 
$
(3,250
)
Amortization of unrealized loss
   
161
     
242
 
Gain (loss) recognized during the year
   
(131
)
   
220
 
Balance at the end of the period
 
$
(2,758
)
 
$
(2,788
)
Period end component of accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax
   
1,512
     
1,529
 
 
Major assumptions utilized to determine the net periodic cost and benefit obligations for both the BMP and Director Retirement Plan were as follows:

   
At or For the Year
Ended December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
   
2014
 
Discount rate used for net periodic cost – BMP
   
3.54
%
   
3.39
%
   
4.00
%
Discount rate used for net periodic cost – Director Retirement Plan
   
3.67
     
3.49
     
4.22
 
Discount rate used to determine BMP benefit obligation at period end
   
3.46
     
3.54
     
3.39
 
Discount rate used to determine Director Retirement Plan benefit obligation at period end
   
3.53
     
3.67
     
3.49
 
 
Both the BMP and Director Retirement Plan are unfunded non-qualified benefit plans that are not anticipated to ever hold assets for investment.  Any contributions made to either the BMP or Director Retirement Plan are expected to be used immediately to pay benefits that accrue. The Bank contributed and made benefit payments in the amount of $69 on behalf of the BMP and $165 on behalf of the Directors Retirement Plan during the year ending December 31, 2016.

During the year ended December 31, 2016, in addition to benefit payments from the defined benefit plan component of the BMP discussed above, a retired participant elected a gross lump-sum distribution of $7,736.  The distribution was satisfied by 239,822 shares of Common Stock (market value of $4,088) held by the ESOP component of the BMP and cash of $3,648 funded by proceeds from the sale of trading securities held by the defined contribution plan components of the BMP.  Gross gains of $3 and gross losses of $45 were recognized on these sales. As a result of the distribution, a non-cash tax benefit of $717 was recognized for the difference between market value and cost basis of the Common Stock held by the BMP, which reduces tax payable and increases Additional Paid-in Capital.
 
Actuarial projections performed as of December 31, 2016 assumed the Bank will contribute $725 to the BMP and $208 to the Director Retirement Plan during the year ending December 31, 2017 in order to pay benefits due under the respective plans.  During the year ending December 31, 2017, actuarial losses of $81 related to the BMP and $66 related to the Director Retirement Plan are anticipated to be recognized as a component of net periodic cost.

Combined benefit payments under the BMP and Director Retirement Plan, which reflect expected future service (as appropriate), are anticipated to be made as follows:

   
Amount
 
2017
 
$
932
 
2018
   
917
 
2019
   
899
 
2020
   
910
 
2021
   
885
 
2022 to 2026
   
4,154
 

There is no defined contribution cost incurred by the Holding Company or the Bank under the Director Retirement Plan.  Defined contribution costs incurred by the Company related to the BMP were $744, $1,900 and $1,789 for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

Postretirement Benefit Plan

The Bank offers the Postretirement Benefit Plan to its retired employees who provided at least five consecutive years of credited service and were active employees prior to April 1, 1991, as follows:

(1)
Qualified employees who retired prior to April 1, 1991 receive the full medical coverage in effect at the time of retirement until their death at no cost to such retirees;

(2)
Qualified employees retiring on or after April 1, 1991 are eligible for medical benefits. Throughout retirement, the Bank will continue to pay the premiums for the coverage not to exceed the premium amount paid for the first year of retirement coverage. Should the premiums increase, the employee is required to pay the differential to maintain full medical coverage.
 
Postretirement Benefit Plan benefits are available only to full-time employees who commence or commenced collecting retirement benefits from the Retirement Plan immediately upon termination of service from the Bank. The Bank reserves the right at any time, to the extent permitted by law, to change, terminate or discontinue any of the group benefits, and can exercise the maximum discretion permitted by law in administering, interpreting, modifying or taking any other action with respect to the plan or benefits.

The Postretirement Plan was amended effective March 31, 2015 to eliminate plan participation for post-amendment retirees. The amendment resulted in a curtailment gain of $3,394 during the year ended December 31, 2015.
 
The funded status of the Postretirement Benefit Plan was as follows:
 
   
At December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
 
Accumulated benefit obligation at end of period
 
$
1,756
   
$
1,825
 
Reconciliation of projected benefit obligation:
               
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of period
 
$
1,825
   
$
4,284
 
Service cost
   
-
     
9
 
Interest cost
   
63
     
94
 
Actuarial gain
   
(10
)
   
(143
)
Benefit payments
   
(122
)
   
(89
)
Curtailment
   
-
     
(2,330
)
Projected benefit obligation at end of period
   
1,756
     
1,825
 
Plan assets at fair value:
               
Balance at beginning of period
   
-
     
-
 
Contributions
   
122
     
89
 
Benefit payments
   
(122
)
   
(89
)
Balance at end of period
   
-
     
-
 
Funded status:
               
Deficiency of plan assets over projected benefit obligation and accrued expense included in other liabilities
  $
( 1,756
)
  $
(1,825
)

The Postretirement Benefit Plan net periodic cost included the following components:

   
Year Ended December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
   
2014
 
Service cost
 
$
-
   
$
9
   
$
41
 
Interest cost
   
63
     
94
     
232
 
Curtailment gain (1)
   
-
     
(3,394
)
   
-
 
Amortization of unrealized loss
   
(12
)
   
(19
)
   
-
 
Net periodic (credit) cost
 
$
51
   
$
(3,310
)
 
$
273
 
 
(1)
The Postretirement Plan was amended effective March 31, 2015, whereby post-amendment retirees are not eligible to participate in the plan. The amendment resulted in a curtailment gain.

The change in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that resulted from the Postretirement Benefit Plan is summarized as follows:

   
At December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
 
Balance at beginning of period
 
$
351
   
$
1,292
 
Amortization of unrealized loss
   
(12
)
   
(19
)
Gain recognized during the year
   
10
     
142
 
Recognition of prior service cost
   
-
     
(1,064
)
Balance at the end of the period
 
$
349
   
$
351
 
Period end component of accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax
   
(191
)
   
(192
)
 
Major assumptions utilized to determine the net periodic cost were as follows:

   
At or for the Year Ended December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
   
2014
 
Discount rate used for net periodic cost
   
3.58
%
   
3.80
%
   
4.72
%
Rate of increase in compensation levels used for net periodic cost
   
N/A
     
3.50
     
3.50
 
Discount rate used to determine benefit obligation at period end
   
3.48
     
3.58
     
3.80
 
Rate of increase in compensation levels used to determine benefit obligation at period end
   
N/A
     
3.50
     
3.50
 
 
As of December 31, 2016, an escalation in the assumed medical care cost trend rates by 1% in each year would increase the net periodic cost by approximately $1.  A decline in the assumed medical care cost trend rates by 1% in each year would decrease the net periodic cost by approximately $1.

As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Bank used December 31 st as its measurement date for the Postretirement Benefit Plan.  The assumed medical care cost trend rate used in computing the accumulated Postretirement Benefit Plan obligation was 6.5% for 2017 and was assumed to decrease gradually to 5.0% in 2023 and remain at that level thereafter.  An escalation in the assumed medical care cost trend rates by 1% in each year would increase the accumulated Postretirement Benefit Plan obligation by approximately $27.  A decline in the assumed medical care cost trend rates by 1% in each year would reduce the accumulated Postretirement Benefit Plan obligation by approximately $25.

GAAP provides guidance on both accounting for the effects of the Medicare Prescription Drug Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003 (the "Act") to employers that sponsor postretirement health care plans which provide prescription drug benefits, and measuring the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation ("APBO") and net periodic postretirement benefit cost, and the effects of the Act on the APBO.  The Company determined that the benefits provided by the Postretirement Benefit Plan are actuarially equivalent to Medicare Part D under the Act.  The effects of an expected subsidy on payments made under the Postretirement Benefit Plan were treated as an actuarial gain for purposes of calculating the APBO as of December 31, 2016 and 2015. The Company remains in the process of claiming this subsidy from the government, and, as a result, the Bank cannot determine the amount of subsidy it will ultimately receive.

The Postretirement Benefit Plan is an unfunded non-qualified benefit plan that is not anticipated to ever hold assets for investment.  Any contributions made to the Postretirement Benefit Plan are expected to be used immediately to pay benefits that accrue.

Benefit payments under the Postretirement Benefit Plan, which reflect expected future service (as appropriate), are expected to be made as follows:

Year Ending December 31,
     
2017
 
$
113
 
2018
   
109
 
2019
   
104
 
2020
   
97
 
2021
   
91
 
2022 to 2026
   
348
 

15.
STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

Stock Option Activity

The Company has made stock option grants to outside Directors and certain officers under the Stock Plans.  All option shares granted have a ten-year life.  The option shares granted to the outside Directors vest over one year, while the option shares granted to officers vest ratably over four years.  The exercise price of each option award was determined based upon the fair market value of the Common Stock on the respective grant dates.  Compensation expense recorded during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 was determined based upon the fair value of the option shares on the respective dates of grant, as determined utilizing a recognized option pricing methodology. There was no compensation expense recorded during the year ended December 31, 2016 as all options were fully vested during the year ended December 31, 2015.

There were no stock options granted during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.
 
The following table presents a summary of activity related to stock options granted under the Stock Plans, and changes during the period then ended:

   
Number of
Options
   
Weighted-Average
Exercise Price
   
Weighted-Average
Remaining
Contractual Years
   
Aggregate
Intrinsic Value
 
Options outstanding at January 1, 2015
   
979,916
   
$
14.74
             
Options granted
   
-
     
-
             
Options exercised
   
(455,310
)
   
14.39
             
Options that expired prior to exercise
   
(59,360
)
   
16.45
             
Options outstanding at December 31, 2015
   
465,246
   
$
14.87
     
1.4
   
$
1,690
 
                                 
Options granted
   
-
     
-
                 
Options exercised
   
(245,992
)
   
14.22
                 
Options that expired prior to exercise
   
(10,000
)
   
18.18
                 
Options outstanding at December 31, 2016
   
209,254
   
$
15.48
     
2.2
   
$
966
 
Options vested and exercisable at December 31, 2016
   
209,254
   
$
15.48
     
2.2
   
$
966
 

Information related to stock options under the Stock Plans during each period is as follows:

   
For the Year Ended December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
   
2014
 
Cash received for option exercise cost
 
$
3,498
   
$
6,549
   
$
278
 
Income tax benefit recognized
   
93
     
264
     
30
 
Intrinsic value of options exercised
   
826
     
1,143
     
6
 
Compensation expense recognized
   
-
     
31
     
110
 
Remaining unrecognized compensation expense
   
-
     
-
     
31
 

The range of exercise prices and weighted-average remaining contractual lives of both outstanding and vested options (by option exercise cost) as of December 31, 2016 were as follows:

     
Outstanding Options
   
Vested Options
 
     
Amount
   
Weighted
Average
Contractual
Years Remaining
   
Amount
   
Weighted
Average
Contractual
Years Remaining
 
Exercise Prices:
                         
$
8.34
     
13,713
     
2.3
     
13,713
     
2.3
 
$
12.75
     
19,827
     
3.3
     
19,827
     
3.3
 
$
13.74
     
30,362
     
0.3
     
30,362
     
0.3
 
$
13.86
     
12,220
     
5.3
     
12,220
     
5.3
 
$
15.46
     
33,291
     
4.3
     
33,291
     
4.3
 
$
16.73
     
29,841
     
1.6
     
29,841
     
1.6
 
$
18.18
     
70,000
     
1.4
     
70,000
     
1.4
 
Total
     
209,254
     
2.2
     
209,254
     
2.2
 

Restricted Stock Awards

The Company has made restricted stock award grants to outside Directors and certain officers under the 2004 Stock Incentive Plan.  Awards made to the outside Directors vest over one year, while officer awards vest ratably over four years.  All awards were made at the fair value of the Common Stock on the award date.  Compensation expense on all restricted stock awards was thus recorded during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 based upon the fair value of the shares on the respective dates of grant.
 
The following table presents a summary of activity related to the restricted stock awards granted under the Stock Plans, and changes during the periods indicated:

   
Number of
Shares
   
Weighted-Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
 
Unvested allocated shares outstanding at January 1, 2015
   
289,660
   
$
15.13
 
Shares granted
   
68,069
     
15.92
 
Shares vested
   
(132,377
)
   
15.14
 
Shares forfeited
   
(1,458
)
   
15.57
 
Unvested allocated shares at December 31, 2015
   
223,894
   
$
15.36
 
                 
Shares granted
   
60,675
     
18.11
 
Shares vested
   
(116,042
)
   
15.09
 
Shares forfeited
   
(16,118
)
   
16.29
 
Unvested allocated shares at December 31, 2016
   
152,409
   
$
16.56
 

Information related to restricted stock awards under the Stock Plans during each period is as follows:

   
For the Year Ended December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
   
2014
 
Compensation expense recognized
 
$
1,549
   
$
1,855
   
$
1,976
 
Income tax benefit recognized
   
78
     
39
     
41
 
Weighted average remaining years for which compensation expense is to be recognized
   
1.6
     
1.0
     
1.2
 

LTIP

During the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, the Company established long term incentive award programs to certain officers. The program for 2016 will ultimately be settled in cash and performance based shares, while the programs for 2015 and 2014 will ultimately be settled in cash only.

For each award, threshold (50% of target), target (100% of target) and maximum (150% of target) payment opportunities are eligible to be earned over a three-year performance period based on the Company's relative performance on certain measurement goals.  Both the measurement goals and the peer group utilized to determine the Company's relative performance are established at the onset of the measurement period and cannot be altered subsequently.

At December 31, 2016, a liability totaling $1,324 was recorded for expected future payments under the long-term cash incentive payment plan. This liability reflected the expectation of the most likely payment outcome determined for each individual incentive award (based upon both period-to-date actual and estimated future results for each award period).  During the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, total expense recognized related to LTIP cash awards were $443, $946 and $467, respectively.

Performance based shares awarded to certain officers meet the criteria for equity-based accounting. The following table presents a summary of activity related to performance based equity awards and changes during the period:

   
Number of
Shares
   
Weighted-
Average Grant-
Date Fair Value
 
Maximum aggregate share payout at January 1, 2016
   
28,044
   
$
17.35
 
Shares forfeited
   
(3,314
)
   
17.35
 
Maximum aggregate share payout at December 31, 2016
   
24,730
     
17.35
 
Minimum aggregate share payout
   
-
     
-
 
Likely aggregate share payout
   
7,350
   
$
17.35
 

Compensation expense recorded for performance based equity awards was $57 for the year ended December 31, 2016.  There was no expense recognized during the years ended December 31, 2015 or 2014 as this award program was established during the year ended December 31, 2016.
 
16.
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Mortgage Loan Commitments and Lines of Credit

At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Bank had outstanding commitments to make real estate loans that were accepted by the borrower aggregating approximately $115,216 and $219,026, respectively.  At both December 31, 2016 and 2015, the great majority of these commitments were to originate adjustable-rate real estate loans.  Substantially all of the Bank's commitments expire within three months of their acceptance by the prospective borrower.  The primary concentrations of credit risk associated with these commitments were geographical (as the majority of committed loans were collateralized by properties located in the New York City metropolitan area) and the proportion of the commitments comprised of multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans.
 
Unused lines of credit available on one- to four-family residential, multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans totaled $34,774 at December 31, 2016 and $34,954 at December 31, 2015.

At December 31, 2016, the Bank had an available line of credit with the FHLBNY equal to its excess borrowing capacity.  At December 31, 2016, this amount approximated $1,265,000.

Lease Commitments

At December 31, 2016, aggregate minimum annual rental commitments on operating leases were as follows:

   
Amount
 
2017
 
$
5,327
 
2018
   
6,098
 
2019
   
6,104
 
2020
   
5,992
 
2021
   
5,894
 
Thereafter
   
30,783
 
Total
 
$
60,198
 

Rental expense for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 totaled $5,854, $3,685, and $3,388, respectively.

Litigation

The Company is subject to certain pending and threatened legal actions which arise out of the normal course of business.  Litigation is inherently unpredictable, particularly in proceedings where claimants seek substantial or indeterminate damages, or which are in their early stages.  The Company cannot predict with certainty the actual loss or range of loss related to such legal proceedings, the manner in which they will be resolved, the timing of final resolution or the ultimate settlement.  Consequently, the Company cannot estimate losses or ranges of losses related to such legal matters, even in instances where it is reasonably possible that a loss will be incurred.  In the opinion of management, after consultation with counsel, the resolution of all ongoing legal proceedings will not have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial condition or results of operations of the Company.  The Company accounts for potential losses related to litigation in accordance with GAAP.

17.
FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

The fair value hierarchy established under ASC 820-10 is summarized as follows:

Level 1 Inputs – Quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets that the reporting entity has the ability to access at the measurement date.

Level 2 Inputs – Significant other observable inputs such as any of the following: (1) quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, (2) quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, (3) inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability ( e.g. , interest rates and yield curves observable at commonly quoted intervals, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks, and default rates), or (4) inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means (market-corroborated inputs).

Level 3 Inputs – Significant unobservable inputs for the asset or liability.  Significant unobservable inputs reflect the reporting entity's own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability (including assumptions about risk).  Significant unobservable inputs shall be used to measure fair value to the extent that observable inputs are not available, thereby allowing for situations in which there is little, if any, market activity for the asset or liability at the measurement date.
 
Fair Value of Financial Assets and Liabilities

The following tables present the assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of the dates indicated segmented by level within the fair value hierarchy. Financial assets are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. There were no financial liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at December 31, 2016 or 2015.

         
Fair Value Measurements at
December 31, 2016 Using
 
   
Total
   
Level 1
Inputs
   
Level 2
Inputs
   
Level 3
Inputs
 
Financial Assets
                       
Trading securities (Registered Mutual Funds):
                       
Domestic Equity Mutual Funds
 
$
873
   
$
873
   
$
-
   
$
-
 
International Equity Mutual Funds
   
213
     
213
     
-
     
-
 
Fixed Income Mutual Funds
   
5,867
     
5,867
     
-
     
-
 
Investment securities available-for-sale:
                               
Registered Mutual Funds:
                               
Domestic Equity Mutual Funds
   
1,356
     
1,356
     
-
     
-
 
International Equity Mutual Funds
   
377
     
377
     
-
     
-
 
Fixed Income Mutual Funds
   
2,162
     
2,162
     
-
     
-
 
Pass-through MBS issued by GSEs
   
372
     
-
     
372
     
-
 
Agency CMOs
   
3,186
     
-
     
3,186
     
-
 
Derivative – interest rate product
   
3,228
     
-
     
3,228
     
-
 

         
Fair Value Measurements at
December 31, 2015 Using
 
   
Total
   
Level 1
Inputs
   
Level 2
Inputs
   
Level 3
Inputs
 
Financial Assets
                       
Trading securities (Registered Mutual Funds):
                       
Domestic Equity Mutual Funds
 
$
1,053
   
$
1,053
   
$
-
   
$
-
 
International Equity Mutual Funds
   
281
     
281
     
-
     
-
 
Fixed Income Mutual Funds
   
8,867
     
8,867
     
-
     
-
 
Investment securities available-for-sale:
                               
Registered Mutual Funds:
                               
Domestic Equity Mutual Funds
   
1,253
     
1,253
     
-
     
-
 
International Equity Mutual Funds
   
383
     
383
     
-
     
-
 
Fixed Income Mutual Funds
   
2,120
     
2,120
     
-
     
-
 
Pass-through MBS issued by GSEs
   
431
     
-
     
431
     
-
 

The Company used the following methods and significant assumptions to estimate fair value.

Investment securities

The Company’s available-for-sale investment securities are reported at fair value, which were determined utilizing prices obtained from independent parties. The valuations obtained are based upon market data, and often utilize evaluated pricing models that vary by asset and incorporate available trade, bid and other market information. For securities that do not trade on a daily basis, pricing applications apply available information such as benchmarking and matrix pricing. The market inputs normally sought in the evaluation of securities include benchmark yields, reported trades, broker/dealer quotes (obtained only from market makers or broker/dealers recognized as market participants), issuer spreads, two-sided markets, benchmark securities, bids, offers and reference data. For certain securities, additional inputs may be used or some market inputs may not be applicable.  Prioritization of inputs may vary on any given day based on market conditions.
 
The pass-through MBS issued by GSEs all possessed the highest possible credit rating published by at least one established credit rating agency as of December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015. Obtaining market values as of December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 for these securities utilizing significant observable inputs was not difficult due to their considerable demand.

Derivatives

Derivatives represent interest rate swaps and estimated fair values are based on valuation models using observable market data as of the measurement date (Level 2).
 
There were no assets or liabilities measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis as of December 31, 2016 or 2015.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The carrying amounts and estimated fair values of financial instruments other than those measured at fair value on either a recurring or non-recurring basis at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 were as follows:

         
Fair Value Measurements
at December 31, 2016 Using
 
   
Carrying
Amount
   
Level 1
Inputs
   
Level 2
Inputs
   
Level 3
Inputs
   
Total
 
Financial Assets:
                             
Cash and due from banks
 
$
113,503
   
$
113,503
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
113,503
 
Investment securities held to maturity (TRUP CDOs)
   
5,378
     
-
     
-
     
7,296
     
7,296
 
Loans, net
   
5,615,886
     
-
     
-
     
5,609,034
     
5,609,034
 
Accrued interest receivable
   
15,647
     
-
     
11
     
15,636
     
15,647
 
FHLBNY capital stock
   
44,444
     
N/A
     
N/A
     
N/A
     
N/A
 
Financial Liabilities:
                                       
Savings, money market and checking accounts
   
3,346,961
     
3,346,961
     
-
     
-
     
3,346,961
 
CDs
   
1,048,465
     
-
     
1,054,131
     
-
     
1,054,131
 
Escrow and other deposits
   
103,001
     
103,001
     
-
     
-
     
103,001
 
FHLBNY Advances
   
831,125
     
-
     
831,951
     
-
     
831,951
 
Trust Preferred securities payable
   
70,680
     
-
     
69,973
     
-
     
69,973
 
Accrued interest payable
   
2,080
     
-
     
2,080
     
-
     
2,080
 

         
Fair Value Measurements
at December 31, 2015 Using
 
   
Carrying
Amount
   
Level 1
Inputs
   
Level 2
Inputs
   
Level 3
Inputs
   
Total
 
Financial Assets:
                             
Cash and due from banks
 
$
64,154
   
$
64,154
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
64,154
 
Investment securities held to maturity (TRUP CDOs)
   
5,242
     
-
     
-
     
7,051
     
7,051
 
Loans, net
   
4,678,262
     
-
     
-
     
4,722,803
     
4,722,803
 
Accrued interest receivable
   
13,486
     
-
     
19
     
13,467
     
13,486
 
FHLBNY capital stock
   
58,713
     
N/A
     
N/A
     
N/A
     
N/A
 
Financial Liabilities:
                                       
Savings, money market and checking accounts
   
2,325,463
     
2,325,463
     
-
     
-
     
2,325,463
 
CDs
   
858,847
     
-
     
865,581
     
-
     
865,581
 
Escrow and other deposits
   
77,130
     
77,130
     
-
     
-
     
77,130
 
FHLBNY Advances
   
1,166,725
     
-
     
1,170,274
     
-
     
1,170,274
 
Trust Preferred securities payable
   
70,680
     
-
     
69,973
     
-
     
69,973
 
Accrued interest payable
   
2,259
     
-
     
2,259
     
-
     
2,259
 

The methods and assumptions used to estimate fair values are described as follows:

Cash and Due From Banks

The fair value is assumed to be equal to their carrying value as these amounts are due upon demand (deemed a Level 1 valuation).
 
TRUP CDOs Held to Maturity

At both December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Company owned seven TRUP CDOs classified as held-to-maturity. At December 31, 2016 and 2015, their estimated fair value was obtained utilizing broker quotations to estimate the fair value of TRUP CDOs. Despite improvement in the overall marketplace conditions, unobservable data was still deemed to have been utilized in the broker quotation pricing, warranting a determination of Level 3 valuation for these securities at December 31, 2016 and 2015.
 
Loans, Net

For adjustable rate loans repricing monthly or quarterly, and with no significant change in credit risk, fair values are based on carrying values.  The fair value of all remaining loans receivable is determined by discounting anticipated future cash flows of the loans, net of anticipated prepayments, using a discount rate reflecting current market rates for loans with similar terms to borrowers of similar credit quality.  The valuation method used for loans does not necessarily represent an exit price valuation methodology as defined under ASC 820.  However, since the valuation methodology is deemed to be comparable to a Level 3 input, the fair value of loans receivable other than impaired loans measured at fair value is shown under the Level 3 valuation column.

Accrued Interest Receivable

The estimated fair value of accrued interest receivable approximates its carrying amount, and is deemed to be valued at an input level comparable to its underlying financial asset.

FHLBNY Capital Stock

It is not practicable to determine the fair value of FHLBNY capital stock due to restrictions placed on transferability.

Deposits

The fair value of savings, money market, and checking accounts is, by definition, equal to the amount payable on demand at the reporting date ( i.e ., their carrying amount), which has been deemed a Level 1 valuation.  The fair value of CDs is based upon the present value of contractual cash flows using current interest rates for instruments of the same remaining maturity (deemed a Level 2 valuation).

Escrow and Other Deposits

The fair value of escrow and other deposits is, by definition, equal to the amount payable on demand at the reporting date (i.e. , their carrying amount), which has been deemed a Level 1 valuation.

FHLBNY Advances

The   fair value of FHLBNY Advances is measured by the discounted anticipated cash flows through contractual maturity or next interest repricing date, or an earlier call date if, as of the valuation date, the borrowing is expected to be called (deemed a Level 2 valuation).  The carrying amount of accrued interest payable on FHLBNY Advances is its fair value and is deemed a Level 2 valuation.

Trust Preferred Securities Payable

The fair value of trust preferred securities payable is estimated using discounted cash flow analyses based on then current borrowing rates for similar types of borrowing arrangements (deemed a Level 2 valuation), and is provided to the Company quarterly independently by a market maker in the underlying security.

Accrued Interest Payable

The estimated fair value of accrued interest payable approximates its carrying amount, and is deemed to be valued at an input level comparable to its underlying financial liability.
 
18.
REGULATORY MATTERS

The Bank is subject to regulation, examination, and supervision by the New York State Department of Financial Services and the FDIC. The Holding Company is subject to regulation, examination, and supervision by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System.
 
The final rules implementing the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision's capital guidelines for U.S. banks (the “Basel III Capital Rules”) became effective for the Holding Company and Bank on January 1, 2015, with full compliance with all of the requirements being phased in over a multi-year schedule, and fully phased in by January 1, 2019.  The Basel III Capital Rules provide for the following minimum capital to risk-weighted assets ratios as of January 1, 2015: a) 4.5% based upon common equity tier 1 capital ("CET1"); b) 6.0% based upon tier 1 capital; and c) 8.0% based upon total regulatory capital.  A minimum leverage ratio (tier 1 capital as a percentage of average consolidated assets) of 4.0% is also required under the Basel III Capital Rules.
 
When fully phased in, the Basel III Capital Rules will additionally require institutions to retain a capital conservation buffer, composed entirely of CET1, of 2.5% above these required minimum capital ratio levels.  Banking organizations that fail to maintain the minimum 2.5% capital conservation buffer could face restrictions on capital distributions or discretionary bonus payments to executive officers.  Restrictions would begin phasing in where the banking organization’s capital conservation buffer was below 2.5% at the beginning of a quarter, and distributions and discretionary bonus payments would be completely prohibited if no capital conservation buffer exists.  The implementation of the capital conservation buffer began on January 1, 2016 at 0.625% and will increase by 0.625% each subsequent January 1, until it reaches 2.5% on January 1, 2019.  When the capital conservation buffer is fully phased in on January 1, 2019, the Holding Company and the Bank will effectively have the following minimum capital to risk-weighted assets ratios: a) 7.0% based upon CET1; b) 8.5% based upon tier 1 capital; and c) 10.5% based upon total regulatory capital. In accordance with the Basel III Capital Rules, the Holding Company and the Bank have elected to exclude all permissible components of accumulated other comprehensive income from computing regulatory capital.  Management believes, as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Holding Company and Bank met all capital requirements to which they were subject.

The Bank is also governed by numerous federal and state laws and regulations, including the FDIC Improvement Act of 1991, which established five categories of capital adequacy ranging from well capitalized to critically undercapitalized (although these items are not utilized to represent overall financial condition).  The FDIC utilizes these categories of capital adequacy to determine various matters, including, but not limited to, prompt corrective action and deposit insurance premium assessment levels.  Capital levels and adequacy classifications may also be subject to qualitative judgments by the Bank’s regulators regarding, among other factors, the components of capital and risk weighting. If adequately capitalized, regulatory approval is required to accept brokered deposits.  If undercapitalized, capital distributions and asset growth are limited, and capital restoration plans are required. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Bank satisfied all criteria necessary to be categorized as “well capitalized” under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action. There have been no conditions or events since December 31, 2016 that management believes have changed the "well capitalized" categorization.
 
Actual and required capital amounts and ratios as of the dates indicated are presented below:

   
Actual
   
For Capital
Adequacy Purposes (1)
   
To Be Categorized as
“Well Capitalized” (1)
 
As of December 31, 2016
 
Amount
   
Ratio
   
Amount
   
Minimum
Ratio
   
Amount
   
Minimum
Ratio
 
Tier 1 Capital / % of average total assets
                                   
Bank
 
$
521,458
     
8.95
%
 
$
235,232
     
4.0
%
 
$
294,041
     
5.0
%
Consolidated Company
   
516,170
     
10.03
     
235,402
     
4.0
     
N/A
     
N/A
 
Common equity Tier 1 capital / % of risk weighted assets
                                               
Bank
   
521,458
     
11.60
     
202, 337
     
4.5
     
292, 265
     
6.5
 
Consolidated Company
   
516,170
     
11.44
     
203, 104
     
4.5
     
N/A
     
N/A
 
Tier 1 Capital / % of risk weighted assets
                                               
Bank
   
521,458
     
11.60
     
269,783
     
6.0
     
359,711
     
8.0
 
Consolidated Company
   
584,684
     
12. 95
     
270,806
     
6.0
     
N/A
     
N/A
 
Total Capital / % of risk weighted assets
                                               
Bank
   
542,019
     
12.05
     
359,711
     
8.0
     
449, 639
     
10.0
 
Consolidated Company
   
605,245
     
13.41
     
361,074
     
8.0
     
N/A
     
N/A
 
 
(1)
In accordance with the Basel III rules.

   
Actual
   
For Capital
Adequacy Purposes (1)
   
To Be Categorized as
“Well Capitalized” (1)
 
As of December 31, 2015
 
Amount
   
Ratio
   
Amount
   
Minimum
Ratio
   
Amount
   
Minimum
Ratio
 
Tier 1 Capital / % of average total assets
                                   
Bank
 
$
440,374
     
9.17
%
 
$
194,314
     
4.0
%
 
$
242,892
     
5.0
%
Consolidated Company
   
447,111
     
10.70
     
195,008
     
4.0
     
N/A
     
N/A
 
Common equity Tier 1 capital / % of risk weighted assets
                                               
Bank
   
440,374
     
11.55
     
171,628
     
4.5
     
247,908
     
6.5
 
Consolidated Company
   
447,111
     
11.67
     
172,456
     
4.5
     
N/A
     
N/A
 
Tier 1 Capital / % of risk weighted assets
                                               
Bank
   
440,374
     
11.55
     
228,838
     
6.0
     
305,117
     
8.0
 
Consolidated Company
   
515,626
     
13.45
     
229,941
     
6.0
     
N/A
     
N/A
 
Total Capital / % of risk weighted assets
                                               
Bank
   
458,938
     
12.03
     
305,117
     
8.0
     
381,397
     
10.0
 
Consolidated Company
   
534,190
     
13.94
     
306,588
     
8.0
     
N/A
     
N/A
 
 
(1)
In accordance with the Basel III rules.
 
19.
UNAUDITED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION

The following tables summarize the unaudited condensed consolidated results of operations for each of the quarters during the fiscal years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015:

   
For the three months ended
 
   
March 31,
2016
   
June 30,
2016
   
September 30,
2016
   
December 31,
 2016
 
Net interest income
 
$
34,631
   
$
35,610
   
$
35,347
   
$
37,898
 
Provision (credit) for loan losses
   
(21
)
   
442
     
1,168
     
529
 
Net interest income after provision for loan losses
   
34,652
     
35,168
     
34,179
     
37,369
 
Non-interest income
   
69,741
     
2,305
     
2,071
     
1,817
 
Non-interest expense
   
17,869
     
18,092
     
18,232
     
29,638
 
Income before income taxes
   
86,524
     
19,381
     
18,018
     
9,548
 
Income tax expense
   
36,487
     
8,173
     
7,481
     
8,816
 
Net income
 
$
50,037
   
$
11,208
   
$
10,537
   
$
732
 
EPS (1) :
                               
Basic
 
$
1.37
   
$
0.30
   
$
0.29
   
$
0.02
 
Diluted
 
$
1.36
   
$
0.30
   
$
0.29
   
$
0.02
 
 
(1)
The quarterly EPS amounts, when added, may not coincide with the full fiscal year EPS reported on the Consolidated Statements of Operations due to differences in the computed weighted average shares outstanding as well as rounding differences.

   
For the three months ended
 
   
March 31,
2015
   
June 30,
2015
   
September 30,
 2015
   
December 31,
 2015
 
Net interest income
 
$
30,094
   
$
33,070
   
$
31,814
   
$
33,586
 
Provision (credit) for loan losses
   
(172
)
   
(1,135
)
   
416
     
(439
)
Net interest income after provision for loan losses
   
30,266
     
34,205
     
31,398
     
34,025
 
Non-interest income
   
3,301
     
1,677
     
1,899
     
1,739
 
Non-interest expense
   
13,864
     
16,366
     
16,124
     
16,139
 
Income before income taxes
   
19,703
     
19,516
     
17,173
     
19,625
 
Income tax expense
   
7,925
     
7,987
     
7,092
     
8,241
 
Net income
 
$
11,778
   
$
11,529
   
$
10,081
   
$
11,384
 
EPS (1) :
                               
Basic
 
$
0.33
   
$
0.32
   
$
0.28
   
$
0.31
 
Diluted
 
$
0.33
   
$
0.32
   
$
0.28
   
$
0.31
 
 
(1)
The quarterly EPS amounts, when added, may not coincide with the full fiscal year EPS reported on the Consolidated Statements of Operations due to differences in the computed weighted average shares outstanding as well as rounding differences
 
20.
CONDENSED HOLDING COMPANY ONLY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The following statements of condition as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, and the related statements of operations and cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, reflect the Holding Company’s investment in its wholly-owned subsidiaries, the Bank and 842 Manhattan Avenue Corp., and its unconsolidated subsidiary, Dime Community Capital Trust I, using, as deemed appropriate, the equity method of accounting:
 
DIME COMMUNITY BANCSHARES, INC.
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

   
At December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
 
ASSETS:
           
Cash and due from banks
 
$
49,152
   
$
57,014
 
Investment securities available-for-sale
   
3,895
     
3,756
 
Trading securities
   
6,953
     
10,201
 
MBS available-for-sale
   
372
     
431
 
ESOP loan to subsidiary
   
-
     
3,028
 
Investment in subsidiaries
   
571, 150
     
487,331
 
Other assets
   
6,020
     
3,867
 
Total assets
 
$
637,542
   
$
565,628
 
                 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:
               
Trust Preferred securities payable
 
$
70,680
   
$
70,680
 
Other liabilities
   
994
     
1,001
 
Stockholders’ equity
   
565,868
     
493,947
 
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
 
$
637,542
   
$
565,628
 

DIME COMMUNITY BANCSHARES, INC.
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (1)

   
Year Ended December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
   
2014
 
Net interest loss
 
$
(4,852
)
 
$
(4,779
)
 
$
(4,748
)
Dividends received from Bank
   
12,000
     
16,000
     
18,050
 
Non-interest income
   
478
     
295
     
1,376
 
Non-interest expense
   
(668
)
   
(667
)
   
(643
)
Income before income taxes and equity in undistributed earnings of direct subsidiaries
   
6,958
     
10,849
     
14,035
 
Income tax credit
   
2,251
     
2,321
     
1,803
 
Income before equity in undistributed earnings of direct subsidiaries
   
9,209
     
13,170
     
15,838
 
Equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries
   
63,305
     
31,602
     
28,408
 
Net income
 
$
72,514
   
$
44,772
   
$
44,246
 
 
(1)
Other comprehensive income for the Holding Company approximated other comprehensive income for the consolidated Company during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.
 
DIME COMMUNITY BANCSHARES, INC.
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

   
Year Ended December 31,
 
   
2016
   
2015
   
2014
 
Cash flows from Operating Activities:
                 
Net income
 
$
72,514
   
$
44,772
   
$
44,246
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
                       
Equity in undistributed earnings of direct subsidiaries
   
(63,305
)
   
(31,602
)
   
(28,408
)
Net loss (gain) on the sale of investment securities available for sale
   
-
     
4
     
(997
)
Net (gain) loss  on trading securities
   
(83
)
   
108
     
45
 
Increase in other assets
   
(2,206
)
   
(69
)
   
(489
)
(Decrease) Increase in other liabilities
   
(7
)
   
(560
)
   
1,680
 
Net cash provided by operating activities
   
6,913
     
12,653
     
16,077
 
                         
Cash flows from Investing Activities:
                       
Proceeds from sale of investment securities available-for-sale
   
-
     
2,000
     
3,780
 
Proceeds from the sale of trading securities
   
3,648
     
1,340
     
7,056
 
Purchases of investment securities available-for-sale
   
(22
)
   
(2,134
)
   
(3,884
)
Reimbursement from subsidiary, including purchases of investment securities available-for-sale
   
303
     
1,655
     
1,620
 
Net purchases of trading securities
   
(317
)
   
(3,090
)
   
(8,839
)
Principal collected on MBS available-for-sale
   
59
     
63
     
72
 
Principal repayments on ESOP loan
   
209
     
194
     
179
 
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
   
3,880
     
28
     
(16
)
                         
Cash flows from Financing Activities:
                       
Common Stock issued for exercise of stock options
   
3,669
     
6,549
     
278
 
Treasury shares repurchased
   
-
     
(300
)
   
-
 
Equity award distribution
   
65
     
251
     
202
 
BMP ESOP shares received to satisfy distribution of retirement benefits
   
(1,820
)
   
-
     
-
 
Cash dividends paid to stockholders
   
(20,569
)
   
(20,279
)
   
(20,094
)
Net cash used in financing activities
   
(18,655
)
   
(13,779
)
   
(19,614
)
                         
Net decrease in cash and due from banks
   
(7,862
)
   
(1,098
)
   
(3,553
)
Cash and due from banks, beginning of period
   
57,014
     
58,112
     
61,665
 
Cash and due from banks, end of period
 
$
49,152
   
$
57,014
   
$
58,112
 

*   *   *   *   *
 
Exhibit Number

3(i)
 
Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. (1)
3(ii)
 
Amended and Restated Bylaws of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. (22)
4.1
 
Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. [See Exhibit 3(i) hereto]
4.2
 
Amended and Restated Bylaws of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. [See Exhibit 3(ii) hereto]
4.3
 
Draft Stock Certificate of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc.  (2)
4.4
 
Second Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust, dated as of July 29, 2004, by and among Wilmington Trust Company, as Delaware Trustee, Wilmington Trust Company as Institutional Trustee, Dime Community Bancshares, Inc., as Sponsor, the Administrators of Dime Community Capital Trust I and the holders from time to time of undivided beneficial interests in the assets of Dime Community Capital Trust I (4)
4.5
 
Indenture, dated as of March 19, 2004, between Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. and Wilmington Trust Company, as trustee (4)
4.6
 
Series B Guarantee Agreement, dated as of July 29, 2004, executed and delivered by Dime Community Bancshares, Inc., as Guarantor and Wilmington Trust Company, as Guarantee Trustee, for the benefit of the holders from time to time of the Series B Capital Securities of Dime Community Capital Trust I (4)
10.3
 
Amended and Restated Employment Agreement between The Dime Savings Bank of Williamsburgh and Kenneth J. Mahon (10)
10.6
 
Employment Agreement between Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. and Kenneth J. Mahon (10)
10.7
 
Form of Employee Retention Agreement by and among The Dime Savings Bank of Williamsburgh, Dime Community Bancorp, Inc. and certain officers (12)
10.8
 
The Benefit Maintenance Plan of Dime Community Bancorp, Inc. (9)
10.9
 
Severance Pay Plan of The Dime Savings Bank of Williamsburgh (8)
10.10
 
Retirement Plan for Board Members of Dime Community Bancorp, Inc. (8)
10.12
 
Recognition and Retention Plan for Outside Directors, Officers and Employees of Dime Community Bancorp, Inc., as amended by amendments number 1 and 2 (3)
10.13
 
Form of stock option agreement for Outside Directors under Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. 1996 and 2001 Stock Option Plans for Outside Directors, Officers and Employees and the 2004 Stock Incentive Plan. (3)
10.14
 
Form of stock option agreement for officers and employees under Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. 1996 and 2001 Stock Option Plans for Outside Directors, Officers and Employees and the 2004 Stock Incentive Plan (3)
10.20
 
Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. 2001 Stock Option Plan for Outside Directors, Officers and Employees (11)
10.21
 
Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. 2004 Stock Incentive Plan for Outside Directors, Officers and Employees (7)
10.24
 
Waiver executed by Kenneth J. Mahon (6)
10.25
 
Form of restricted stock award notice for officers and employees under the 2004 Stock Incentive Plan (5)
10.27
 
Form of restricted stock award notice for outside directors under the 2004 Stock Incentive Plan (5)
10.28
 
Employee Retention Agreement between The Dime Savings Bank of Williamsburgh, Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. and Daniel Harris (8)
10.30
 
Adoption Agreement for Pentegra Services, Inc. Volume Submitter 401(K) Profit Sharing Plan (18)
10.31
 
Employee Stock Ownership Plan of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. and Certain Affiliates (8)
10.32
 
Amendment to the Benefit Maintenance Plan (13)
10.33
 
Amendments One, Two and Three to the Employee Stock Ownership Plan of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. and Certain Affiliates (14)
10.34
 
Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. 2013 Equity And Incentive Plan (15)
10.35
 
Form of restricted stock award notice for officers and employees under the 2013 Equity and Incentive Plan (16)
10.36
 
Form of restricted stock award notice for outside directors under the 2013 Equity and Incentive Plan (16)
10.37
 
The Dime Savings Bank of Williamsburgh 401(K) Savings Plan (18)
10.38
 
Amendment Number Four to the Employee Stock Ownership Plan of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. and Certain Affiliates (17)
10.39
 
Amendment Number One to the Dime Savings Bank of Williamsburgh 401(K) Savings Plan (18)
10.40
 
Retirement and Consulting Agreement between Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. and Michael P. Devine (19)
10.41
 
Retirement and Consulting Agreement between Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. and Vincent F. Palagiano (20)
10.42
 
Form of performance share award notice for officers under 2013 Equity and Incentive Plan (21)
 
Employment and Change in Control Agreement between Dime Community Bank and Stuart Lubow
 
Employment and Change in Control Agreement between Dime Community Bank and Conrad Gunther
 
Purchase and Sale Agreement between The Dime Savings Bank of Williamsburgh and Tavros Capital Partners USA LLC
 
 
Purchase and Sale Agreement between The Dime Savings Bank of Williamsburgh and Havemeyer Owner BB LLC
 
Computation of ratio of earnings to fixed charges
 
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
 
Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a)
 
Certification of Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a)
 
Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350
 
Certification of Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350
101**
 
Pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T, the following financial information from the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended December 31, 2016 is formatted in XBRL (Extensible Business Reporting Language) interactive data files: (i) the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, (ii) the Consolidated Statements of Income for each of the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, (iii) the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for each of the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, (iv) the Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity for each of the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, (v) the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for each of the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, and (vi) the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

**
Furnished, not filed, herewith.
(1)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Transition Report on Form 10-K for the transition period ended December 31, 2002 filed on March 28, 2003.
(2)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 1998 filed on September 28, 1998.
(3)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 1997 filed on September 26, 1997, and the Current Reports on Form 8-K filed on March 22, 2004 and March 29, 2005.
(4)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibits to the registrant’s Registration Statement No. 333-117743 on Form S-4 filed on July 29, 2004.
(5)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 22, 2005.
(6)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2005 filed on May 10, 2005.
(7)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2008 filed on August 8, 2008.
(8)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008 filed on March 16, 2009.
(9)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 4, 2011.
(10)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2011 filed on May 10, 2011.
(11)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2011 filed on August 9, 2011.
(12)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2012 filed on May 9, 2012.
(13)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2012 filed on November 13, 2012.
(14)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012 filed on March 15, 2013.
(15)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 filed on August 9, 2013.
(16)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2014 filed on August 5, 2014.
(17)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014 filed on March 16, 2015.
(18)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2015 filed on May 7, 2015.
(19)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2015 filed on November 6, 2015.
(20)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 30, 2016.
(21)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2016 filed on August 9, 2016.
 
(22)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 30, 2017.
 
 
F-115


Exhibit 10.43
 
Employment and Change in Control Agreement

This Employment and Change in Control Agreement (this “ Agreement ”) is entered into effective as of this 3 rd day of January, 2017, by and between Dime Community Bank, a New York State-chartered savings bank and wholly-owned subsidiary of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. (the “Corporation”) and Stuart Lubow (the “ Executive ”).

Whereas , the Executive has accepted employment as a senior officer of the Corporation and Dime Community Bank, a New York-chartered savings bank and wholly-owned subsidiary of the Corporation (the “ Bank ” or the “ Employer ”);

Whereas , the parties wish to set for the terms and conditions of the Executive’s employment in this Agreement;

Now Therefore , in consideration of these premises, the mutual covenants contained herein, and other good and valuable consideration the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto agree as follows.

Article 1
Employment

1.1            Employment . The Bank hereby employs the Executive as Senior Executive Vice President of Business Banking according to the terms and conditions of this Agreement. The Executive shall report directly to the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Bank.  The Executive shall serve the Bank faithfully, diligently, competently, and to the best of the Executive’s ability.  Unless otherwise authorized in writing by the Bank’s President and Chief Executive Officer, the Executive shall exclusively devote full working time, energy, and attention to the business of the Bank and to the promotion of the Bank’s interests.  Without the written consent of the Bank, the Executive shall not render services to or for any person, firm, bank, or other entity or organization in exchange for compensation, regardless of the form in which the compensation is paid and regardless of whether it is paid directly or indirectly to the Executive.  Nothing in this Section 1.1 shall prevent the Executive from managing personal investments and affairs, provided that doing so does not interfere with the proper performance of the Executive’s duties and responsibilities under this Agreement.

1.2            Term .

(a)             The term of this Agreement shall include: (i) the initial term, consisting of the period commencing on the date of this Agreement (the “Effective Date”) and continuing for twenty-four (24) months thereafter (the “Retention Period”), plus (ii) any extensions following the expiration of the Retention Period made pursuant to  Section 1.2(b) of this Agreement.

(b)             Commencing on or before the second anniversary of the initial term and on each anniversary of such date thereafter, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Bank (the “Compensation Committee”) shall consider the advisability of an extension of the term of this Agreement in light of the circumstances then prevailing and may, in its discretion, recommend to the Board of Directors of the Bank (the “Board”) an extension of the term of the Agreement so that the remaining term shall be twenty-four (24) months.    Any extension of the term of this Agreement following the Retention Period will not extend the Retention Period.
 

(c)            The Committee’s decision not to extend the term of this Agreement shall not – by itself – give the Executive any rights under this Agreement to claim an adverse change in position, compensation, or circumstances or otherwise to claim entitlement to severance benefits under Articles 4, 5 or 6 of this Agreement.

1.3            At-Will Employment .
 
(a)             This Agreement in no way guarantees Executive the right to continue in the employment of the Bank.  Executive’s employment is considered employment at will, subject to Employee’s right to receive payments and benefits upon certain terminations of employment as provided herein.

(b)             Nothing in this Agreement shall mandate or prohibit a continuation of the Executive’s employment following the expiration of the term of this Agreement, upon such terms and conditions as the Bank and the Executive may mutually agree.

Article 2
Compensation

2.1            Total Compensation

(a)             Base Salary.   In consideration of the Executive’s performance of the obligations under this Agreement, the Bank shall pay or cause to be paid to the Executive a salary at the annual rate of not less than $450,000, less applicable withholdings and authorized deductions, payable on a semi-monthly basis in accordance with the Bank’s regular pay practices.  The Executive’s salary shall be reviewed annually by the Compensation Committee.  The Executive’s first annual salary review will occur no later than March 31, 2017.  Any increase in the Executive’s salary shall become the “ Base Salary ” for purposes of this Agreement.

(b)             Annual Bonus.   During the term of this Agreement, with respect to each calendar year (or portion thereof) during which the Executive is employed by the Bank, the Executive shall be eligible for an annual discretionary bonus opportunity in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Bank’s annual incentive program (“AIP”).  The AIP bonus criteria shall be established by the Compensation Committee, set forth in writing and communicated to the Executive for each applicable calendar year (the “performance period”).  Executive shall first become eligible to participate in the AIP during the 2017 performance period.  Any AIP bonus earned during the 2017 performance period shall be paid in 2018, no later than March 31, 2018.
 
2

(c)             LTIP .      The Executive is eligible to participate in the Bank’s Long Term Incentive Program (“LTIP”).  LTIP incentives can be distributed in shares of Corporation common stock and/or cash.   The Bank engages a third party compensation consultant to work with the Compensation Committee on an annual basis to establish the LTIP incentive opportunities. The Executive shall first become eligible to participate in the LTIP during the 2017 calendar year.  In lieu of a 2017 LTIP award, if the Executive is actively employed by the Bank on January 3, 2017 (the “Grant Date”), the Executive shall receive a Restricted Stock Award valued at $225,000 (the “Restricted Stock Award”). The number of shares subject to the Restricted Stock Award will be based on the Fair Market Value (as such term is defined in Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. 2013 Equity And Incentive Plan (the “2013 Equity Plan”)) of the Corporation common stock on the Grant Date.  The Restricted Stock Award will vest ratable over a four year period commencing of the first anniversary of the Grant Date and is subject to all other terms and conditions of the 2013 Equity Plan .   Fair Market Value is currently defined under the 2013 Equity Plan as the final reported sales price on the date of grant (or if there is no reported sale on such date, on the last preceding date on which any reported sale occurred) as reported in the principal consolidated reporting system with respect to securities listed or admitted to trading on the principal United States securities exchange on which the Corporation stock is listed, as of the closing of the market in New York City and without regard to after-hours trading activity.

2.2            Other Benefit Plans and Perquisites .

(a)           Benefit plans .  In addition to the salary and benefit arrangements noted in Section 2.1 above, the Executive shall be entitled throughout the term of this Agreement to participate in any and all officer or employee compensation and benefit plans of the Corporation and the Bank in effect from time to time, including without limitation, equity plans, retirement plans and medical, dental, disability, and group life benefits and to receive any and all other fringe benefits provided from time to time, provided that the Executive satisfies the eligibility requirements for any such plans or benefits.

(b)             Reimbursement of business expenses .  Subject to guidelines issued from time to time by the Bank and upon submission of documentation to support expense reimbursement in conformity with applicable requirements of federal income tax laws and regulations, the Executive shall be entitled to reimbursement for all reasonable business expenses incurred performing the obligations under this Agreement, including but not limited to all reasonable business travel and entertainment expenses incurred while acting at the request of or in the service of the Bank.

(c)             Paid Leave .  The Executive shall be entitled to paid annual vacation and sick leave in accordance with the policies established from time to time by the Bank. However, in no event shall the Executive be entitled to less than twenty (20) days of vacation and five (5) personal days.

(d)             Automobile Allowance During the term of the Agreement, the Bank will make available for use by the Executive an automobile, the make and model of which will be chosen by the Executive with approval by the Bank, at a cost of no more than $1,600 per month.
 
3

Article 3
Employment Termination

3.1            Termination Because of Death or Disability .

(a)             Death .  The Executive’s employment shall terminate automatically at the Executive’s death.  If the Executive dies in active service to the Bank, the Executive’s estate shall receive any sums due to the Executive as Base Salary and reimbursement of expenses through the end of the month in which death occurred as well as any bonus or incentive compensation calculated through the date of death, as specified in the Bank’s short-term and long-term incentive compensation plans and related agreements.

(b)            Disability .  By delivery of written notice 30 days in advance to the Executive, the Bank may terminate the Executive’s employment if the Executive is disabled.  For purposes of this Agreement, the Executive shall be considered “ disabled ” if an independent physician selected by the Bank and reasonably acceptable to the Executive or the Executive’s legal representative determines that, because of illness or accident, the Executive is unable to perform the Executive’s duties and will be unable to perform the Executive’s duties for a period of 90 consecutive days.  The Executive shall not be considered disabled, however, if the Executive returns to work on a full-time basis within 30 days after the Bank gives notice of termination due to disability.  If the Executive’s employment terminates because of disability, the Executive shall receive the Base Salary earned through the date on which termination became effective, any reimbursement of expenses incurred through the date of termination, any unpaid bonus or incentive compensation calculated through the date of termination (as specified in the Bank’s short-term and long-term incentive compensation plans and related agreements),  any payments the Executive is eligible to receive under any disability insurance program in which the Executive participates, and such other benefits to which the Executive may be entitled under the Corporation’s and Bank’s benefit plans, policies, and agreements, or the provisions of this Agreement.

3.2            Involuntary Termination with Cause .  The Bank may terminate the Executive’s employment with Cause at any time upon written notice.  If the Executive’s employment terminates with Cause, the Executive shall receive the Base Salary through the date on which termination becomes effective and reimbursement of expenses to which the Executive is entitled when termination becomes effective.   For purposes of this Agreement “ Cause ” means any of the following: (i) gross negligence or gross neglect of duties to the Bank, (ii) conviction of a felony or of a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude or (iii)  fraud, disloyalty, dishonesty, or willful violation of any law or significant Corporation or Bank policy.
 
4

3.3          Involuntary Termination Without Cause and Voluntary Termination with Good Reason .

Unless otherwise provided herein, with written notice to the Executive 30 days in advance, the Bank may terminate the Executive’s employment without Cause.  Termination without Cause shall take effect at the end of the 30-day period.  During the Retention Period (as such term is defined in Section 1.2(a) of this Agreement), the Bank may in its sole discretion terminate the Executive’s employment without Cause at any time immediately upon notice. With advance written notice to the Bank as provided in clause (ii) below, the Executive may terminate employment with Good Reason.  If the Executive’s employment terminates involuntarily without Cause or voluntarily but with Good Reason, the Executive shall be entitled to receive the Base Salary earned through the date of termination, any reimbursement of expenses incurred through the date of termination, any unpaid bonus calculated through the date of termination (as specified in the Bank’s short-term and long-term incentive compensation plans and related agreements), and such other benefits to which the Executive may be entitled under the Corporation’s and the Bank’s benefit plans, policies, and agreements, or the provisions of this Agreement.  In addition, the Executive shall be entitled to the benefits specified in Article 4 of this Agreement.  For purposes of this Agreement a voluntary termination by the Executive shall be considered a voluntary termination with Good Reason if the conditions of the safe-harbor definition of good reason contained in Internal Revenue Code Section 409A are satisfied, as the same may be amended from time to time.  For purposes of clarification and without intending to affect the foregoing reference to Section 409A for the definition of Good Reason, as of the Employment Date the safe-harbor definition of separation from service for good reason in Treasury Regulation 1.409A-1(n)(2)(ii) would provide as follows –

( i )              a voluntary termination by the Executive shall be considered a voluntary termination with Good Reason if any of the following occur without the Executive’s advance written consent, and the term Good Reason shall mean the occurrence of any of the following without the Executive’s advance written consent: (i) a diminution of the Executive’s Base Salary, (ii) a material diminution of the Executive’s authority, duties, or responsibilities, (iii) a material diminution in the authority, duties, or responsibilities of the supervisor to whom the Executive is required to report, (iv) a material change in the geographic location at which the Executive must perform services for the Bank or (v) any other action or inaction that constitutes a material breach by the Bank of this Agreement.
 
( ii )             the Executive must give notice to the Bank of the existence of one or more of the conditions described in clause ( i ) within 90 days after the initial existence of the condition, and the Bank shall have 30 days thereafter to remedy the condition.

3.4            Voluntary Termination by the Executive Without Good Reason .  If the Executive terminates employment voluntarily but without Good Reason, the Executive shall receive the Base Salary earned through the date of termination and any reimbursement of expenses incurred through the date of termination.

3.5            Termination Generally .  If at employment termination the Executive is serving as a director of the Corporation and/or the Bank, the Executive shall be deemed to have resigned as a director effective immediately after termination, regardless of whether the Executive submits a formal, written resignation as director.  All files, records, documents, manuals, books, forms, reports, memoranda, studies, data, calculations, recordings or correspondence, in whatever form they may exist, and all copies, abstracts and summaries of the foregoing, and all physical items related to the business of the Corporation and the Bank, their affiliates, and their respective directors and officers, whether of a public nature or not, and whether prepared by Executive or not, are and at employment termination shall remain the exclusive property of the Corporation and the Bank, and without the Corporation’s or the Bank’s advance written consent shall not be removed from their premises except as required in the course of providing services under this Agreement, and at termination shall be promptly returned by the Executive to the Corporation and the Bank.
 
5

Article 4
Severance Compensation During the Retention Period

4.1            Cash Severance after Termination Without Cause or Termination with Good Reason .  If the Executive’s employment terminates involuntarily but without Cause or voluntarily but with Good Reason during the Retention Period, in addition to the cash severance and benefits payable under Section 3.3 of this Agreement, the Bank shall pay to the Executive in a single lump sum cash payment, without discount for the time value of money, an amount equal to his remaining Base Salary that would have been paid to the Executive had he remained employed by the Bank through the Retention Period.  The Bank and the Executive acknowledge and agree that the compensation and benefits under this Section 4.1 shall not be payable if, on the date of termination, compensation and benefits are payable or shall have been paid to the Executive under Article 5 of this Agreement.

4.2            Release .  The Executive shall be entitled to no compensation or other benefits under this Article 4 unless ( x ) within 90 days after the Executive’s employment termination the Executive shall have entered into a release in form satisfactory to the Executive, the Corporation and the Bank acknowledging the Bank’s and the Executive’s remaining obligations and releasing both parties, as well as the Corporation’s and Bank’s officers, directors, and employees from  any and all liability, directly or indirectly, arising out of their actions for or on behalf of the Bank, from any other claims or obligations arising out of the Executive’s employment by the Bank, including the circumstances of the Executive’s employment termination, and ( y ) within that 90-day period the release shall have become irrevocable, final, and binding on the Executive under all applicable law, with expiration of all applicable revocation periods.  If the final day of the 90-day period for execution and finality of a liability release occurs in the taxable year after the year in which the Executive’s employment termination occurs, the benefits to the Executive under this Article 4 shall be payable in the taxable year in which the 90-day period ends and shall not be paid in the taxable year in which employment termination occurs.  Nothing in this Section 4.2 is intended to abrogate the Executive’s review and revocation rights under the Older Workers’ Benefit Protection Act that may be included in any such release, and the 90-day period shall be extended if necessary to permit Executive to exercise such rights.  The non-compete and other covenants contained in Article 8 of this Agreement are not contingent on the Executive entering into a release under this Section 4.2 and shall be effective regardless of whether the Executive enters into the release.
 
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Article 5
Change in Control

5.1            Change in Control Benefits .  If (i) a Change in Control occurs during the term of this Agreement, and (ii) within 12 months following such Change in Control, either the Bank terminates the Executive’s employment without Cause or the Executive terminates employment with Good Reason, then the Bank shall promptly make or cause to be made a lump-sum cash payment to the Executive in an amount equal to two (2) times the sum of: (i) Executive’s Base Salary at the time of the Change in Control or at termination of employment following a Change in Control, whichever is greater and (ii) the amount that the Executive’s annual incentive award under the Bank’s short-term incentive compensation plan would have been at “Target” for the calendar year prior to the Change in Control, or if higher, the average of the actual short-term incentive awards earned by the Executive for the most recent two (2) calendar years (the “ Change in Control Payment ”).  The Change in Control Payment payable to the Executive hereunder shall not be reduced to account for the time value of money or discounted to present value.  If the Executive receives a Change in Control Payment under this Section 5.1 the Executive shall not be entitled to any additional severance benefits under Section 4.1 of this Agreement after employment termination.  The Executive shall be entitled to benefits under this Section 5.1 on no more than one occasion during the term of this Agreement.

5.2            Change in Control Defined .  For purposes of this Agreement “ Change in Control ” means a change in control as defined in Internal Revenue Code Section 409A, as the same may be amended from time to time.  For purposes of clarification and without intending to affect the foregoing reference to Section 409A for the definition of Change in Control, as of the Effective Date a Change in Control as defined in Treasury Regulation 1.409A-3(i)(5) would provide as follows –

(a)             Change in ownership : a change in ownership of a corporation occurs on the date any one person or group accumulates ownership of corporation stock constituting more than 50% of the total fair market value or total voting power of corporation stock, or

(b)             Change in effective control : ( x ) any one person or more than one person acting as a group acquires within a 12-month period ownership of corporation stock possessing 30% or more of the total voting power of corporation stock, or ( y ) a majority of the corporation’s board of directors is replaced during any 12-month period by directors whose appointment or election is not endorsed in advance by a majority of the corporation’s board of directors, or

(c)             Change in ownership of a substantial portion of assets : a change in ownership of a substantial portion of the corporation’s assets occurs if in a 12-month period any one person or more than one person acting as a group acquires from the corporation assets having a total gross fair market value equal to or exceeding 40% of the total gross fair market value of all of the corporation’s assets immediately before the acquisition or acquisitions.  For this purpose, gross fair market value means the value of the corporation’s assets, or the value of the assets being disposed of, determined without regard to any liabilities associated with the assets.
 
5.3            Limitation on Benefits. Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, in the event it shall be determined that any payment or distribution made at any time by the Company, the Bank, or any affiliate of the Company or the Bank to or for the benefit of the Executive (whether paid or payable, or distributed or distributable, pursuant to the terms of this Agreement or otherwise) (a “ Payment ”) would constitute an “excess parachute payment” (as defined in Internal Revenue Code Section 280G(b)(2)), such Payment shall be reduced to the extent necessary to ensure that no portion of such Payment will be non-deductible to the Employer by Internal Revenue Code Section 280G or will be subject to the excise tax imposed by Internal Revenue Code Section 4999 (the “ Reduced Payment ”), and the Executive shall have no further rights or claims with respect to an amount in excess of the Reduced Payment. If a Payment is reduced pursuant to this Section 5.3, the Employer shall reduce or eliminate the following portions of the Payment in successive order to reach the Reduced Payment: (i) first, the benefits portion of the Payment, (ii) then, the cash portion of the Payment, and (iii) then, the equity portion of the Payment. Any determination required under this Section 5.3 (including, without limitation, the amount of the Reduced Payment and the assumptions to be utilized in arriving at such determination) shall be made by the Employer and its tax advisors, whose determination shall be final, conclusive and binding upon the Executive.
 
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Article 6
Post-Termination Insurance Coverage

6.1            Post-Termination Insurance Coverage .

 (a)            Subject to Section 6.1(b), if the Executive’s employment terminates involuntarily but without Cause or voluntarily but with Good Reason, the Bank shall continue or cause to be continued medical and dental insurance coverage for the Executive and the Executive’s dependents and beneficiaries under substantially similar terms in effect for the Executive during the enrollment period immediately prior to Executive’s termination of employment.  Except in the event of a Change in Control, the medical and dental insurance benefits provided by this Section 6.1(a) shall be reduced if the Executive obtains medical or dental insurance benefits through another entity, or eliminated entirely if the other entity’s insurance benefits are equivalent or superior to the benefits provided under this Section 6.1(a).  If the insurance benefits are reduced, they shall be reduced by an amount such that the Executive’s aggregate insurance benefits for the period specified in this Section 6.1(a) are equivalent to the benefits to which the Executive would have been entitled had the Executive not obtained medical or dental insurance benefits through another entity.  The medical and dental insurance coverage shall continue until the first to occur of ( w ) the Executive’s return to employment with the Bank or another entity offering equivalent or superior insurance benefits, ( x ) the Executive’s attainment of age 65, ( y ) the Executive’s death, or ( z ) the end of the term remaining under this Agreement when the Executive’s employment terminates.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event the Executive terminates employment following a Change in Control under the terms and conditions set forth in Article 5 of this Agreement, the medical and dental insurance benefits provided under this Section 6.1 shall continue for twenty-four (24) months.  This Section 6.1 shall not be interpreted to limit any benefits to which the Executive or the Executive’s dependents or beneficiaries may be entitled under any of the Bank’s or the Corporation’s employee benefit plans, agreements, programs, or practices after the Executive’s employment termination.
 
(b)             If ( x ) under the terms of the applicable policy or policies for the insurance benefits specified in Section 6.1(a) it is not possible to continue the Executive’s coverage or ( y ) when employment termination occurs the Executive is a specified employee within the meaning of Internal Revenue Code Section 409A, if any of the continued insurance benefits specified in Section 6.1(a) would be considered deferred compensation under Section 409A, and finally if an exemption from the six-month delay requirement of Section 409A(a)(2)(B)(i) is not available for that particular insurance benefit, instead of continued insurance coverage under Section 6.1(a), the Bank shall pay to the Executive in a single lump sum an amount in cash equal to the present value of the Bank’s projected cost to maintain that particular insurance benefit had the Executive’s employment not terminated, assuming continued coverage for the lesser of the number of months remaining in the term of this Agreement or the number of months until the Executive attains age 65.  The lump-sum payment shall be made 30 days after employment termination or, if Section 6.1(b) applies and a six-month delay is required under Section 409A, on the first day of the seventh month after the month in which the Executive’s employment terminates.
 
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Article 7
Confidentiality

7.1            Non-disclosure .  Subject to Section 8.2, the Executive covenants and agrees not to reveal to any person, firm, or Corporation any confidential information of any nature concerning the Corporation, the Bank, their respective businesses, or anything connected therewith.  As used in this Article 7, the term “ confidential information ” means all of the Corporation’s and the Bank’s and their affiliates’ confidential and proprietary information and trade secrets in existence on the date hereof or existing at any time during the term of this Agreement, including but not limited to –

(a)             the whole or any portion or phase of any business plans, financial information, purchasing data, supplier data, accounting data, or other financial information,

(b)             the whole or any portion or phase of any research and development information, design procedures, algorithms or processes, or other technical information,

(c)             the whole or any portion or phase of any marketing or sales information, sales records, customer lists, customer information, employee lists, employee information, financial products and services, financial products and services pricing, financial information and projections, or other sales information, and

(d)             trade secrets, as defined from time to time by the laws of the State of New York.

However, confidential information excludes information that – as of the date hereof or at any time after the date hereof – is published or disseminated without obligation of confidence or that becomes a part of the public domain ( x ) by or through action of the Corporation, or ( y ) otherwise than by or at the direction of the Executive.  This section 7.1 does not prohibit disclosure required by an order of a court having jurisdiction or a subpoena from an appropriate governmental agency or disclosure made by the Executive in the ordinary course of business and within the scope of the Executive’s authority.
 
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7.2            Return of Materials .  The Executive agrees to deliver or return to the Corporation and the Bank upon termination, upon expiration of this Agreement, or as soon thereafter as possible, all written information and any other similar items furnished by the Corporation and the Bank or prepared by the Executive in connection with the Executive’s services hereunder.  The Executive will retain no copies thereof after termination of this Agreement or termination of the Executive’s employment.

7.3            Injunctive Relief .  The Executive hereby acknowledges that the enforcement of this Article 7 and Article 8 is necessary to ensure the preservation, protection, and continuity of the business, trade secrets, and goodwill of the Corporation and the Bank, and that the restrictions set forth in Article 8 are reasonable in terms of time, scope, territory, and in all other respects.  The Executive acknowledges that it is impossible to measure in money the damages that will accrue to the Corporation or the Bank if the Executive fails to observe the obligations imposed by Articles 7 and 8.  Accordingly, if the Corporation or the Bank institutes an action to enforce the provisions hereof, the Executive hereby waives the claim or defense that an adequate remedy at law is available to the Corporation or the Bank and the Executive agrees not to urge in any such action the claim or defense that an adequate remedy at law exists.  If there is a breach or threatened breach by the Executive of the provisions of Article 8, the Corporation and the Bank shall be entitled to an injunction without bond to restrain the breach or threatened breach, and the prevailing party in any such proceeding shall be entitled to reimbursement for all costs and expenses, including reasonable attorneys’ fees.  The existence of any claim or cause of action by the Executive against the Corporation or the Bank shall not constitute and shall not be asserted as a defense by the Executive to enforcement of Articles 7 and 8.

7.4            Affiliates’ Confidential Information is Covered .  For purposes of this Agreement the term “ affiliate ” includes the Corporation and any entity that directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with the Corporation or the Bank.

7.5            Survival of Obligations .  The Executive’s obligations under Article 7 shall survive employment termination regardless of the manner in which termination occurs and shall be binding upon the Executive’s heirs, executors, and administrators.

Article 8
Competition After Employment Termination

8.1            Restrictions on the Executive’s Post-Employment Activities The restrictions in this Article 8 have been negotiated, presented to and accepted by the Executive contemporaneous with the offer and acceptance by the Executive of this Agreement.  The Bank’s decision to enter into this Agreement is conditioned upon the Executive’s agreement to be bound by the restrictions contained in this Article 8.  This Article 8 shall be void if a Change in Control occurs simultaneously with the Executive’s employment termination. For purposes of this Article 8 the term “Corporation” includes not only the Corporation but also the Bank.

(a)             Promise of no solicitation .  Subject to Section 8.2 of this Agreement, the Executive promises and agrees that during the Restricted Period (as defined below) the Executive shall not:
 
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(i)              directly or indirectly solicit or attempt to solicit any Customer (as defined below) to accept or purchase Financial Products or Services (as defined below) of the same nature, kind, or variety as provided to the Customer by the Corporation during the year immediately before the Executive’s employment termination with the Corporation,

(ii)             directly or indirectly influence or attempt to influence any Customer, joint venturer, or other business partner of the Corporation to alter that person or entity’s business relationship with the Corporation in any respect, and

(iii)            accept the Financial Products or Services business of any Customer or provide Financial Products or Services to any Customer on behalf of anyone other than the Corporation.

(b)             Promise of no competition .  Except where the employment of the Executive is terminated pursuant to section 3.3 of this Agreement, the Executive promises and agrees that during the Restricted Period the Executive shall not become employed by or serve as a director, partner, consultant, agent, or owner of 2% or more of the outstanding stock of or contractor to any entity providing Financial Products or Services that is located in or conducts business in the Restricted Territory.

(c)             Promise of no raiding/hiring While employed by the Bank and, in the event of a termination of Executive’s employment, for a period of one year thereafter, in consideration of the obligations of the Bank hereunder, including without limitation, its disclosure of Confidential Information to Executive, Executive shall not directly or indirectly, for himself or as principal, agent, independent contractor, consultant, director, officer, member, or employee of any other person, firm, corporation, partnership, company, association or other entity, either: (a) hire, attempt to employ, contact with respect to hiring, solicit with respect to hiring or enter into any contractual arrangement with any employee or former employee of the Bank or any Bank Affiliate, or (b) induce or otherwise advise or encourage any employee of the Bank or any Bank Affiliate to leave his or her employment; unless, in each such case, such employee or former employee has not been employed by the Bank or a Bank affiliate for a period in excess of six months at the time of such solicitation, attempt to employ, contact, employment or inducement.

(d)             Promise of no disparagement .  Subject to Section 8.2, the Executive promises and agrees that during the Restricted Period the Executive shall not cause statements to be made (whether written or oral) that reflect negatively on the business reputation of the Corporation.  The Corporation likewise promises and agrees that during the Restricted Period the Corporation shall not cause statements to be made (whether written or oral) that reflect negatively on the reputation of the Executive.  Nothing herein is intended to restrict the Executive or the Corporation from testifying truthfully in response to any lawfully served subpoena or other legal process.
 
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(e)             Acknowledgment .  The Executive and the Corporation acknowledge and agree that the provisions of this Article 8 have been negotiated and carefully determined to be reasonable and necessary for the protection of legitimate business interests of the Corporation.  Both parties agree that a violation of Article 8 is likely to cause immediate and irreparable harm that will give rise to the need for court ordered injunctive relief.  In the event of a breach or threatened breach by the Executive of any provision of this Agreement, the Corporation shall be entitled to obtain an injunction without bond restraining the Executive from violating the terms of this Agreement and to institute an action against the Executive to recover damages from the Executive for such breach.  These remedies for default or breach are in addition to any other remedy or form of redress provided under New York law.  The parties acknowledge that the provisions of this Article 8 survive termination of the employment relationship, but the provisions of this Article 8 shall be null and void if a Change in Control occurs simultaneously with employment termination.   The parties agree that if any of the provisions of this Article 8 are deemed unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, that such provisions may be stricken as independent clauses by the court in order to enforce the remaining restrictions and that the intent of the parties is to afford the broadest restriction on post-employment activities as set forth in this Agreement.  Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, without limiting the remedies available to the Corporation for violation of this Agreement, and without constituting an election of remedies, if the Executive violates any of the terms of Article 8 the Executive shall forfeit on the Executive’s own behalf and that of his beneficiary(ies) any rights to and interest in any severance or other benefits under this Agreement or other contract the Executive has with the Corporation or the Bank.

(f)              Definitions :

(i)              “Restricted Period” as used herein means the six-month period immediately after the Executive’s termination and/or separation of employment with the Corporation, regardless of the reason for termination and/or separation.  The Restricted Period shall be extended in an amount equal to any time period during which a violation of Article 8 of this Agreement is proven.

(ii)             “Restricted Territory” as used herein means: (i) the New York City boroughs of Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens and the Bronx and (ii) Nassau and Suffolk counties in Long Island, New York.

(iii)            “Customer” as used herein means any individual or entity with who or which the Corporation has a contractual or business relationship, or engaged in negotiations toward such a relationship, joint venturer, entity of any sort, or other business partner of the Corporation, with, for or to whom the Corporation has provided Financial Products or Services during the last year of the Executive’s employment with the Corporation; or any individual, joint venturer, entity of any sort, or business partner whom the Corporation has identified as a prospective customer of Financial Products or Services within the last year of the Executive’s employment with the Corporation.

(iv)            “Financial Products or Services” as used herein means any product or service that a financial institution or a financial holding company could offer by engaging in any activity that is financial in nature or incidental to such a financial activity and that is offered by the Corporation or an affiliate on the date of the Executive’s employment termination, including but not limited to banking activities and activities that are closely related and  properly incident to banking, or other products or services of the type of which the Executive was involved during the Executive’s employment with the Corporation.
 
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8.2            Confidential Disclosure in Reporting Violations of Law or in Court Filings.  Executive acknowledges and the Bank and the Corporation agree that Executive may disclose Confidential Information in confidence, directly or indirectly, to federal, state, or local government officials, including, but not limited to, the Department of Justice, the Securities and Exchange Commission, Congress, and any agency Inspector General or to an attorney, for the sole purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law or regulation or making other disclosures that are protected under the whistleblower provisions of state or federal laws or regulations. Executive may also disclose Confidential Information in a document filed in a lawsuit or other proceeding; however, only if the filing is made under seal. Nothing in this Agreement is intended to conflict with federal law protecting confidential disclosures of a trade secret to the government or in a court filing, 18 U.S.C. §1833(b), or to create liability for disclosures of Confidential Information that are expressly allowed by 18 U.S.C. §1833(b).

Article 9
Miscellaneous

9.1            Successors and Assigns .

(a)           This Agreement is binding on successors .  This Agreement shall be binding upon the Bank any successor to the Bank, including any persons acquiring directly or indirectly all or substantially all of the business or assets of the Bank by purchase, merger, consolidation, reorganization, or otherwise.  But this Agreement and the Bank’s obligations under this Agreement are not otherwise assignable, transferable, or delegable by the Bank.

 (b)            This Agreement is enforceable by the Executive’s heirs .  This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by the Executive’s personal or legal representatives, executors, administrators, successors, heirs, distributees, and legatees.

(c)             This Agreement is personal in nature and is not assignable .  This Agreement is personal in nature.  Without written consent of the other parties, no party shall assign, transfer, or delegate this Agreement or any rights or obligations under this Agreement except as expressly provided herein.  Without limiting the generality or effect of the foregoing, the Executive’s right to receive payments hereunder is not assignable or transferable, whether by pledge, creation of a security interest, or otherwise, except for a transfer by the Executive’s will or by the laws of descent and distribution.  If the Executive attempts an assignment or transfer that is contrary to this Section 9.1, the Bank shall have no liability to pay any amount to the assignee or transferee.

9.2            Governing Law, Jurisdiction and Forum .  This Agreement shall be construed under and governed by the internal laws of the State of New York, without giving effect to any conflict of laws provision or rule (whether of the State of New York or any other jurisdiction) that would cause the application of the laws of any jurisdiction other than the State of New York.  By entering into this Agreement, the Executive acknowledges that the Executive is subject to the jurisdiction of both the federal and state courts in the State of New York.  Any actions or proceedings instituted under this Agreement shall be brought and tried solely in courts located in Kings County, New York or in the federal court having jurisdiction in Kings County, New York.  The Executive expressly waives the right to have any such actions or proceedings brought or tried elsewhere.
 
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9.3            Entire Agreement .  This Agreement sets forth the entire agreement of the parties concerning the employment of the Executive.  Any oral or written statements, representations, agreements, or understandings made or entered into prior to or contemporaneously with the execution of this Agreement are hereby rescinded, revoked, and rendered null and void.

9.4            Notices .  Any notice under this Agreement shall be deemed to have been effectively made or given if in writing and personally delivered, delivered by mail properly addressed in a sealed envelope, postage prepaid by certified or registered mail, delivered by a reputable overnight delivery service, or sent by facsimile.  Unless otherwise changed by notice, notice shall be properly addressed to the Executive if addressed to the most current address of the Executive in the personnel records of the Bank at the time of the delivery of such notice, and properly addressed to the Bank if addressed to the address of the Bank’s principal office.

9.5            Severability .  If there is a conflict between any provision of this Agreement and any statute, regulation, or judicial precedent, the latter shall prevail, but the affected provisions of this Agreement shall be curtailed and limited solely to the extent necessary to bring them within the requirements of law.  If any provision of this Agreement is held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be indefinite, invalid, void or voidable, or otherwise unenforceable, the remainder of this Agreement shall continue in full force and effect unless that would clearly be contrary to the intentions of the parties or would result in an injustice.

9.6            Captions and Counterparts .  The captions in this Agreement are solely for convenience.  The captions do not define, limit, or describe the scope or intent of this Agreement.  This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.

9.7            Amendment and Waiver .  This Agreement may not be amended, released, discharged, abandoned, changed, or modified except by an instrument in writing signed by each of the parties hereto.  The failure of any party hereto to enforce at any time any of the provisions of this Agreement shall not be construed to be a waiver of any such provision or affect the validity of this Agreement or any part thereof or the right of any party thereafter to enforce each and every such provision.  No waiver of any breach of this Agreement shall be held to be a waiver of any other or subsequent breach.

9.8            FDIC Part 359 Limitations .  Despite any contrary provision within this Agreement, any payments made to the Executive under this Agreement, or otherwise, shall be subject to compliance with 12 U.S.C. 1828 and FDIC Regulation 12 CFR Part 359, Golden Parachute Indemnification Payments, and any other regulations or guidance promulgated thereunder.
 
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9.9            Compliance with Internal Revenue Code Section 409A .  The Bank and the Executive intend that their exercise of authority or discretion under this Agreement shall comply with Internal Revenue Code Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.  If when the Executive’s employment terminates the Executive is a specified employee, as defined in Section 409A, and if any payments under this Agreement, including Articles 4, 5 or 8, will result in additional tax or interest to the Executive because of Section 409A, then despite any provision of this Agreement to the contrary the Executive shall not be entitled to the payments until the earliest of ( x ) the date that is at least six months after termination of the Executive’s employment for reasons other than the Executive’s death, ( y ) the date of the Executive’s death, or ( z ) any earlier date that does not result in additional tax or interest to the Executive under Section 409A.  As promptly as possible after the end of the period during which payments are delayed under this provision, the entire amount of the delayed payments shall be paid to the Executive in a single lump sum.  If any provision of this Agreement does not satisfy the requirements of Section 409A, the provision shall be applied in a manner consistent with those requirements despite any contrary provision of this Agreement.  If any provision of this Agreement would subject the Executive to additional tax or interest under Section 409A, the Bank shall reform the provision.  However, the Bank shall maintain to the maximum extent practicable the original intent of the applicable provision without subjecting the Executive to additional tax or interest, and the Bank shall not be required to incur any additional compensation expense as a result of the reformed provision.  References in this Agreement to Section 409A include the rules, regulations, and guidance of general application issued by the Department of the Treasury under Section 409A.

9.10          Guarantee.   The Corporation hereby irrevocably and unconditionally guarantees to the Executive the payment of all amounts, and the performance of all other obligations, due from the Bank in accordance with the terms of this Agreement as and when due without any requirement of presentment, demand of payment, protest or notice of dishonor or nonpayment.
 
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In Witness Whereof , the parties have executed this Employment and Change in Control Agreement as of the date first written above.

 
DIME COMMUNITY BANK
     
  By:
/s/ KENNETH J. MAHON
 
Kenneth J. Mahon
   
President & Chief Executive Officer
     
 
DIME COMMUNITY BANCSHARES, INC.
 
( as guarantor)
     
  By:
/s/ KENNETH J. MAHON
   
Kenneth J. Mahon
   
President & Chief Executive Officer
     
  /s/ STUART LUBOW
  Stuart Lubow
 
 
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Exhibit 10.44

Employment and Change in Control Agreement
 
This Employment and Change in Control Agreement (this “ Agreement ”) is entered into effective as of this 12th day of December, 2016, by and between Dime Community Bank, a New York State-chartered savings bank and wholly-owned subsidiary of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. (the “Corporation”) and Conrad Gunther (the “ Executive ”).

Whereas , the Executive has accepted employment as a senior officer of the Corporation and Dime Community Bank, a New York-chartered savings bank and wholly-owned subsidiary of the Corporation (the “ Bank ” or the “ Employer ”);

Whereas , the parties wish to set for the terms and conditions of the Executive’s employment in this Agreement;

Now Therefore , in consideration of these premises, the mutual covenants contained herein, and other good and valuable consideration the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto agree as follows.

Article 1
Employment

1.1          Employment . The Bank hereby employs the Executive as Executive Vice President of Business Banking according to the terms and conditions of this Agreement. The Executive shall serve under the direction of the Senior Executive Vice President of Business Banking or the Bank’s Chief Operating Officer.  The Executive shall serve the Bank faithfully, diligently, competently, and to the best of the Executive’s ability.  Unless otherwise authorized in writing by the Bank’s President and Chief Executive Officer, the Executive shall exclusively devote full working time, energy, and attention to the business of the Bank and to the promotion of the Bank’s interests; provided, however, that Executive shall be permitted to continue as a director of CVD Equipment Corporation.  Without the written consent of the Bank, the Executive shall not render services to or for any person, firm, bank, or other entity or organization in exchange for compensation, regardless of the form in which the compensation is paid and regardless of whether it is paid directly or indirectly to the Executive.  Nothing in this section 1.1 shall prevent the Executive from managing personal investments and affairs, provided that doing so does not interfere with the proper performance of the Executive’s duties and responsibilities under this Agreement.

1.2          Term .

(a)           The term of this Agreement shall include: (i) the initial term, consisting of the period commencing on the date of this Agreement (the “Effective Date”) and continuing for twenty-four (24) months thereafter (the “Retention Period”), plus (ii) any extensions following the expiration of the Retention Period made pursuant to  Section 1.2(b) of this Agreement.
 

(b)            Commencing on or before the second anniversary of the initial term and on each anniversary of such date thereafter, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Bank (the “Compensation Committee”) shall consider the advisability of an extension of the term of this Agreement in light of the circumstances then prevailing and may, in its discretion, recommend to the Board of Directors of the Bank (the “Board”) an extension of the term of the Agreement so that the remaining term shall be twenty-four (24) months.    Any extension of the term of this Agreement following the Retention Period will not extend the Retention Period.

(c)            The Committee’s decision not to extend the term of this Agreement shall not – by itself – give the Executive any rights under this Agreement to claim an adverse change in position, compensation, or circumstances or otherwise to claim entitlement to severance benefits under Articles 4, 5 or 6 of this Agreement.

1.3           At-Will Employment .
 
(a)           This Agreement in no way guarantees Executive the right to continue in the employment of the Bank.  Executive’s employment is considered employment at will, subject to Employee’s right to receive payments and benefits upon certain terminations of employment as provided herein.

(b)           Nothing in this Agreement shall mandate or prohibit a continuation of the Executive’s employment following the expiration of the term of this Agreement, upon such terms and conditions as the Bank and the Executive may mutually agree.

Article 2
Compensation

2.1          Total Compensation

(a)           Base Salary.   In consideration of the Executive’s performance of the obligations under this Agreement, the Bank shall pay or cause to be paid to the Executive a salary at the annual rate of not less than $325,000, less applicable withholdings and authorized deductions, payable on a semi-monthly basis in accordance with the Bank’s regular pay practices.  The Executive’s salary shall be reviewed annually by the Compensation Committee.  The Executive’s first annual salary review will occur no later than March 31, 2017.  Any increase in the Executive’s salary shall become the “ Base Salary ” for purposes of this Agreement.

(b)           Signing Bonus.   On December 31, 2016, if the Executive is actively employed at the Bank, the Executive shall be paid a signing bonus of $50,000 in cash, less applicable withholdings and authorized deductions.   If the Executive’s employment with the Bank is terminated by the Bank for Cause (as defined herein) or by the Executive for any reason prior to the one-year anniversary of the Effective Date, the Executive agrees to repay the full amount of such signing bonus to the Bank within thirty (30) days of the Executive’s termination date.
 
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(c)            Annual Bonus.   During the term of this Agreement, with respect to each calendar year (or portion thereof) during which the Executive is employed by the Bank, the Executive shall be eligible for an annual discretionary bonus opportunity in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Bank’s annual incentive program (“AIP”).  The AIP bonus criteria shall be established by the Compensation Committee, set forth in writing and communicated to the Executive for each applicable calendar year (the “performance period”).  Executive shall first become eligible to participate in the AIP during the 2017 performance period.  Any AIP bonus earned during the 2017 performance period shall be paid in 2018, no later than March 31, 2018.

(d)        LTIP .   The Executive is eligible to participate in the Bank’s Long Term Incentive Program (“LTIP”).  LTIP incentives can be distributed in shares of Corporation common stock and/or cash.   The Bank engages a third party compensation consultant to work with the Compensation Committee on an annual basis to establish the LTIP incentive opportunities. The Executive shall first become eligible to participate in the LTIP during the 2017 calendar year.  In lieu of a 2017 LTIP award, if the Executive is actively employed by the Bank on January 3, 2017 (the “Grant Date”), the Executive shall receive a Restricted Stock Award valued at $130,000 (the “Restricted Stock Award”). The number of shares subject to the Restricted Stock Award will be based on the Fair Market Value (as such term is defined in Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. 2013 Equity And Incentive Plan (the “2013 Equity Plan”)) of the Corporation common stock on the Grant Date.  The Restricted Stock Award will vest ratable over a four year period commencing of the first anniversary of the Grant Date and is subject to all other terms and conditions of the 2013 Equity Plan .   Fair Market Value is currently defined under the 2013 Equity Plan as the final reported sales price on the date of grant (or if there is no reported sale on such date, on the last preceding date on which any reported sale occurred) as reported in the principal consolidated reporting system with respect to securities listed or admitted to trading on the principal United States securities exchange on which the Corporation stock is listed, as of the closing of the market in New York City and without regard to after-hours trading activity.

2.2          Other Benefit Plans and Perquisites .

(a)        Benefit plans .  In addition to the salary and benefit arrangements noted in Section 2.1 above, the Executive shall be entitled throughout the term of this Agreement to participate in any and all officer or employee compensation and benefit plans of the Corporation and the Bank in effect from time to time, including without limitation, equity plans, retirement plans and medical, dental, disability, and group life benefits and to receive any and all other fringe benefits provided from time to time, provided that the Executive satisfies the eligibility requirements for any such plans or benefits.

(b)           Reimbursement of business expenses .  Subject to guidelines issued from time to time by the Bank and upon submission of documentation to support expense reimbursement in conformity with applicable requirements of federal income tax laws and regulations, the Executive shall be entitled to reimbursement for all reasonable business expenses incurred performing the obligations under this Agreement, including but not limited to all reasonable business travel and entertainment expenses incurred while acting at the request of or in the service of the Bank.
 
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(c)           Paid Leave .  The Executive shall be entitled to paid annual vacation and sick leave in accordance with the policies established from time to time by the Bank. However, in no event shall the Executive be entitled to less than twenty (20) days of vacation and five (5) personal days.

(d)           Automobile Allowance During the term of this Agreement, the Executive shall receive an automobile allowance of $1,000 per month for all expenses of insurance, registration, operation and maintenance of an automobile.

Article 3
Employment Termination

3.1          Termination Because of Death or Disability .

(a)           Death .  The Executive’s employment shall terminate automatically at the Executive’s death.  If the Executive dies in active service to the Bank, the Executive’s estate shall receive any sums due to the Executive as Base Salary and reimbursement of expenses through the end of the month in which death occurred as well as any bonus or incentive compensation calculated through the date of death, as specified in the Bank’s short-term and long-term incentive compensation plans and related agreements.

 (b)          Disability .  By delivery of written notice 30 days in advance to the Executive, the Bank may terminate the Executive’s employment if the Executive is disabled.  For purposes of this Agreement, the Executive shall be considered “ disabled ” if an independent physician selected by the Bank and reasonably acceptable to the Executive or the Executive’s legal representative determines that, because of illness or accident, the Executive is unable to perform the Executive’s duties and will be unable to perform the Executive’s duties for a period of 90 consecutive days.  The Executive shall not be considered disabled, however, if the Executive returns to work on a full-time basis within 30 days after the Bank gives notice of termination due to disability.  If the Executive’s employment terminates because of disability, the Executive shall receive the Base Salary earned through the date on which termination became effective, any reimbursement of expenses incurred through the date of termination, any unpaid bonus or incentive compensation calculated through the date of termination (as specified in the Bank’s short-term and long-term incentive compensation plans and related agreements),  any payments the Executive is eligible to receive under any disability insurance program in which the Executive participates, and such other benefits to which the Executive may be entitled under the Corporation’s and Bank’s benefit plans, policies, and agreements, or the provisions of this Agreement.

3.2          Involuntary Termination with Cause .  The Bank may terminate the Executive’s employment with Cause at any time upon written notice.  If the Executive’s employment terminates with Cause, the Executive shall receive the Base Salary through the date on which termination becomes effective and reimbursement of expenses to which the Executive is entitled when termination becomes effective.   For purposes of this Agreement “ Cause ” means any of the following: (i) gross negligence or gross neglect of duties to the Bank, (ii) conviction of a felony or of a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude or (iii)  fraud, disloyalty, dishonesty, or willful violation of any law or significant Corporation or Bank policy.
 
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3.3            Involuntary Termination Without Cause and Voluntary Termination with Good Reason .

Unless otherwise provided herein, with written notice to the Executive 30 days in advance, the Bank may terminate the Executive’s employment without Cause.  Termination without Cause shall take effect at the end of the 30-day period.  During the Retention Period (as such term is defined in Section 1.2(a) of this Agreement), the Bank may in its sole discretion terminate the Executive’s employment without Cause at any time immediately upon notice. With advance written notice to the Bank as provided in clause (ii) below, the Executive may terminate employment with Good Reason.  If the Executive’s employment terminates involuntarily without Cause or voluntarily but with Good Reason, the Executive shall be entitled to receive the Base Salary earned through the date of termination, any reimbursement of expenses incurred through the date of termination, any unpaid bonus calculated through the date of termination (as specified in the Bank’s short-term and long-term incentive compensation plans and related agreements), and such other benefits to which the Executive may be entitled under the Corporation’s and the Bank’s benefit plans, policies, and agreements, or the provisions of this Agreement.  In addition, the Executive shall be entitled to the benefits specified in Article 4 of this Agreement.  For purposes of this Agreement a voluntary termination by the Executive shall be considered a voluntary termination with Good Reason if the conditions of the safe-harbor definition of good reason contained in Internal Revenue Code Section 409A are satisfied, as the same may be amended from time to time.  For purposes of clarification and without intending to affect the foregoing reference to Section 409A for the definition of Good Reason, as of the Employment Date the safe-harbor definition of separation from service for good reason in Treasury Regulation 1.409A-1(n)(2)(ii) would provide as follows –

( i )            a voluntary termination by the Executive shall be considered a voluntary termination with Good Reason if any of the following occur without the Executive’s advance written consent, and the term Good Reason shall mean the occurrence of any of the following without the Executive’s advance written consent: (i) a diminution of the Executive’s Base Salary, (ii) a material diminution of the Executive’s authority, duties, or responsibilities, (iii) a material diminution in the authority, duties, or responsibilities of the supervisor to whom the Executive is required to report, (iv) a material change in the geographic location at which the Executive must perform services for the Bank or (v) any other action or inaction that constitutes a material breach by the Bank of this Agreement.

( ii )          the Executive must give notice to the Bank of the existence of one or more of the conditions described in clause ( i ) within 90 days after the initial existence of the condition, and the Bank shall have 30 days thereafter to remedy the condition.

3.4          Voluntary Termination by the Executive Without Good Reason .  If the Executive terminates employment voluntarily but without Good Reason, the Executive shall receive the Base Salary earned through the date of termination and any reimbursement of expenses incurred through the date of termination.
 
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3.5          Termination Generally .  If at employment termination the Executive is serving as a director of the Corporation and/or the Bank, the Executive shall be deemed to have resigned as a director effective immediately after termination, regardless of whether the Executive submits a formal, written resignation as director.  All files, records, documents, manuals, books, forms, reports, memoranda, studies, data, calculations, recordings or correspondence, in whatever form they may exist, and all copies, abstracts and summaries of the foregoing, and all physical items related to the business of the Corporation and the Bank, their affiliates, and their respective directors and officers, whether of a public nature or not, and whether prepared by Executive or not, are and at employment termination shall remain the exclusive property of the Corporation and the Bank, and without the Corporation’s or the Bank’s advance written consent shall not be removed from their premises except as required in the course of providing services under this Agreement, and at termination shall be promptly returned by the Executive to the Corporation and the Bank.

Article 4
Severance Compensation During the Retention Period

4.1          Cash Severance after Termination Without Cause or Termination with Good Reason .  If the Executive’s employment terminates involuntarily but without Cause or voluntarily but with Good Reason during the Retention Period, in addition to the cash severance and benefits payable under Section 3.3 of this Agreement, the Bank shall pay to the Executive in a single lump sum cash payment, without discount for the time value of money, an amount equal to his remaining Base Salary that would have been paid to the Executive had he remained employed by the Bank through the Retention Period.  The Bank and the Executive acknowledge and agree that the compensation and benefits under this Section 4.1 shall not be payable if, on the date of termination, compensation and benefits are payable or shall have been paid to the Executive under Article 5 of this Agreement.

4.2          Release .  The Executive shall be entitled to no compensation or other benefits under this Article 4 unless ( x ) within 90 days after the Executive’s employment termination the Executive shall have entered into a release in form satisfactory to the Executive, the Corporation and the Bank acknowledging the Bank’s and the Executive’s remaining obligations and releasing both parties, as well as the Corporation’s and Bank’s officers, directors, and employees from  any and all liability, directly or indirectly, arising out of their actions for or on behalf of the Bank, from any other claims or obligations arising out of the Executive’s employment by the Bank, including the circumstances of the Executive’s employment termination, and ( y ) within that 90-day period the release shall have become irrevocable, final, and binding on the Executive under all applicable law, with expiration of all applicable revocation periods.  If the final day of the 90-day period for execution and finality of a liability release occurs in the taxable year after the year in which the Executive’s employment termination occurs, the benefits to the Executive under this Article 4 shall be payable in the taxable year in which the 90-day period ends and shall not be paid in the taxable year in which employment termination occurs.  Nothing in this Section 4.2 is intended to abrogate the Executive’s review and revocation rights under the Older Workers’ Benefit Protection Act that may be included in any such release, and the 90-day period shall be extended if necessary to permit Executive to exercise such rights.  The non-compete and other covenants contained in Article 8 of this Agreement are not contingent on the Executive entering into a release under this Section 4.2 and shall be effective regardless of whether the Executive enters into the release.
 
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Article 5
Change in Control

5.1          Change in Control Benefits .  If (i) a Change in Control occurs during the term of this Agreement, and (ii) within 12 months following such Change in Control, either the Bank terminates the Executive’s employment without Cause or the Executive terminates employment with Good Reason, then the Bank shall promptly make or cause to be made a lump-sum cash payment to the Executive in an amount equal to two (2) times the sum of: (i) Executive’s Base Salary at the time of the Change in Control or at termination of employment following a Change in Control, whichever is greater and (ii) the amount that the Executive’s annual incentive award under the Bank’s short-term incentive compensation plan would have been at “Target” for the calendar year prior to the Change in Control, or if higher, the average of the actual short-term incentive awards earned by the Executive for the most recent two (2) calendar years (the “ Change in Control Payment ”).  The Change in Control Payment payable to the Executive hereunder shall not be reduced to account for the time value of money or discounted to present value.  If the Executive receives a Change in Control Payment under this Section 5.1 the Executive shall not be entitled to any additional severance benefits under Section 4.1 of this Agreement after employment termination.  The Executive shall be entitled to benefits under this Section 5.1 on no more than one occasion during the term of this Agreement.

5.2          Change in Control Defined .  For purposes of this Agreement “ Change in Control ” means a change in control as defined in Internal Revenue Code Section 409A, as the same may be amended from time to time.  For purposes of clarification and without intending to affect the foregoing reference to Section 409A for the definition of Change in Control, as of the Effective Date a Change in Control as defined in Treasury Regulation 1.409A-3(i)(5) would provide as follows –

(a)           Change in ownership : a change in ownership of a corporation occurs on the date any one person or group accumulates ownership of corporation stock constituting more than 50% of the total fair market value or total voting power of corporation stock, or

(b)           Change in effective control : ( x ) any one person or more than one person acting as a group acquires within a 12-month period ownership of corporation stock possessing 30% or more of the total voting power of corporation stock, or ( y ) a majority of the corporation’s board of directors is replaced during any 12-month period by directors whose appointment or election is not endorsed in advance by a majority of the corporation’s board of directors, or

(c)           Change in ownership of a substantial portion of assets : a change in ownership of a substantial portion of the corporation’s assets occurs if in a 12-month period any one person or more than one person acting as a group acquires from the corporation assets having a total gross fair market value equal to or exceeding 40% of the total gross fair market value of all of the corporation’s assets immediately before the acquisition or acquisitions.  For this purpose, gross fair market value means the value of the corporation’s assets, or the value of the assets being disposed of, determined without regard to any liabilities associated with the assets.
 
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5.3          Limitation on Benefits. Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, in the event it shall be determined that any payment or distribution made at any time by the Company, the Bank, or any affiliate of the Company or the Bank to or for the benefit of the Executive (whether paid or payable, or distributed or distributable, pursuant to the terms of this Agreement or otherwise) (a “ Payment ”) would constitute an “excess parachute payment” (as defined in Internal Revenue Code Section 280G(b)(2)), such Payment shall be reduced to the extent necessary to ensure that no portion of such Payment will be non-deductible to the Employer by Internal Revenue Code Section 280G or will be subject to the excise tax imposed by Internal Revenue Code Section 4999 (the “ Reduced Payment ”), and the Executive shall have no further rights or claims with respect to an amount in excess of the Reduced Payment. If a Payment is reduced pursuant to this Section 5.3, the Employer shall reduce or eliminate the following portions of the Payment in successive order to reach the Reduced Payment: (i) first, the benefits portion of the Payment, (ii) then, the cash portion of the Payment, and (iii) then, the equity portion of the Payment. Any determination required under this Section 5.3 (including, without limitation, the amount of the Reduced Payment and the assumptions to be utilized in arriving at such determination) shall be made by the Employer and its tax advisors, whose determination shall be final, conclusive and binding upon the Executive.

Article 6
Post-Termination Insurance Coverage

6.1          Post-Termination Insurance Coverage .

 (a)          Subject to Section 6.1(b), if the Executive’s employment terminates involuntarily but without Cause or voluntarily but with Good Reason, the Bank shall continue or cause to be continued medical and dental insurance coverage for the Executive and the Executive’s dependents and beneficiaries under substantially similar terms in effect for the Executive during the enrollment period immediately prior to Executive’s termination of employment.  Except in the event of a Change in Control, the medical and dental insurance benefits provided by this Section 6.1(a) shall be reduced if the Executive obtains medical or dental insurance benefits through another entity, or eliminated entirely if the other entity’s insurance benefits are equivalent or superior to the benefits provided under this Section 6.1(a).  If the insurance benefits are reduced, they shall be reduced by an amount such that the Executive’s aggregate insurance benefits for the period specified in this Section 6.1(a) are equivalent to the benefits to which the Executive would have been entitled had the Executive not obtained medical or dental insurance benefits through another entity.  The medical and dental insurance coverage shall continue until the first to occur of ( w ) the Executive’s return to employment with the Bank or another entity offering equivalent or superior insurance benefits, ( x ) the Executive’s attainment of age 65, ( y ) the Executive’s death, or ( z ) the end of the term remaining under this Agreement when the Executive’s employment terminates.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event the Executive terminates employment following a Change in Control under the terms and conditions set forth in Article 5 of this Agreement, the medical and dental insurance benefits provided under this Section 6.1 shall continue for twenty-four (24) months.  This Section 6.1 shall not be interpreted to limit any benefits to which the Executive or the Executive’s dependents or beneficiaries may be entitled under any of the Bank’s or the Corporation’s employee benefit plans, agreements, programs, or practices after the Executive’s employment termination.
 
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(b)           If ( x ) under the terms of the applicable policy or policies for the insurance benefits specified in Section 6.1(a) it is not possible to continue the Executive’s coverage or ( y ) when employment termination occurs the Executive is a specified employee within the meaning of Internal Revenue Code Section 409A, if any of the continued insurance benefits specified in Section 6.1(a) would be considered deferred compensation under Section 409A, and finally if an exemption from the six-month delay requirement of Section 409A(a)(2)(B)(i) is not available for that particular insurance benefit, instead of continued insurance coverage under Section 6.1(a), the Bank shall pay to the Executive in a single lump sum an amount in cash equal to the present value of the Bank’s projected cost to maintain that particular insurance benefit had the Executive’s employment not terminated, assuming continued coverage for the lesser of the number of months remaining in the term of this Agreement or the number of months until the Executive attains age 65.  The lump-sum payment shall be made 30 days after employment termination or, if Section 6.1(b) applies and a six-month delay is required under Section 409A, on the first day of the seventh month after the month in which the Executive’s employment terminates.

Article 7
Confidentiality

7.1          Non-disclosure .  Subject to Section 8.2, the Executive covenants and agrees not to reveal to any person, firm, or Corporation any confidential information of any nature concerning the Corporation, the Bank, their respective businesses, or anything connected therewith.  As used in this Article 7, the term “ confidential information ” means all of the Corporation’s and the Bank’s and their affiliates’ confidential and proprietary information and trade secrets in existence on the date hereof or existing at any time during the term of this Agreement, including but not limited to –

(a)           the whole or any portion or phase of any business plans, financial information, purchasing data, supplier data, accounting data, or other financial information,

(b)           the whole or any portion or phase of any research and development information, design procedures, algorithms or processes, or other technical information,

(c)           the whole or any portion or phase of any marketing or sales information, sales records, customer lists, customer information, employee lists, employee information, financial products and services, financial products and services pricing, financial information and projections, or other sales information, and

(d)           trade secrets, as defined from time to time by the laws of the State of New York.
 
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However, confidential information excludes information that – as of the date hereof or at any time after the date hereof – is published or disseminated without obligation of confidence or that becomes a part of the public domain ( x ) by or through action of the Corporation, or ( y ) otherwise than by or at the direction of the Executive.  This section 7.1 does not prohibit disclosure required by an order of a court having jurisdiction or a subpoena from an appropriate governmental agency or disclosure made by the Executive in the ordinary course of business and within the scope of the Executive’s authority.

7.2          Return of Materials .  The Executive agrees to deliver or return to the Corporation and the Bank upon termination, upon expiration of this Agreement, or as soon thereafter as possible, all written information and any other similar items furnished by the Corporation and the Bank or prepared by the Executive in connection with the Executive’s services hereunder.  The Executive will retain no copies thereof after termination of this Agreement or termination of the Executive’s employment.

7.3          Injunctive Relief .  The Executive hereby acknowledges that the enforcement of this Article 7 and Article 8 is necessary to ensure the preservation, protection, and continuity of the business, trade secrets, and goodwill of the Corporation and the Bank, and that the restrictions set forth in Article 8 are reasonable in terms of time, scope, territory, and in all other respects.  The Executive acknowledges that it is impossible to measure in money the damages that will accrue to the Corporation or the Bank if the Executive fails to observe the obligations imposed by Articles 7 and 8.  Accordingly, if the Corporation or the Bank institutes an action to enforce the provisions hereof, the Executive hereby waives the claim or defense that an adequate remedy at law is available to the Corporation or the Bank and the Executive agrees not to urge in any such action the claim or defense that an adequate remedy at law exists.  If there is a breach or threatened breach by the Executive of the provisions of Article 8, the Corporation and the Bank shall be entitled to an injunction without bond to restrain the breach or threatened breach, and the prevailing party in any such proceeding shall be entitled to reimbursement for all costs and expenses, including reasonable attorneys’ fees.  The existence of any claim or cause of action by the Executive against the Corporation or the Bank shall not constitute and shall not be asserted as a defense by the Executive to enforcement of Articles 7 and 8.

7.4          Affiliates’ Confidential Information is Covered .  For purposes of this Agreement the term “ affiliate ” includes the Corporation and any entity that directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with the Corporation or the Bank.

7.5          Survival of Obligations .  The Executive’s obligations under Article 7 shall survive employment termination regardless of the manner in which termination occurs and shall be binding upon the Executive’s heirs, executors, and administrators.

Article 8
Competition After Employment Termination

8.1          Restrictions on the Executive’s Post-Employment Activities The restrictions in this Article 8 have been negotiated, presented to and accepted by the Executive contemporaneous with the offer and acceptance by the Executive of this Agreement.  The Bank’s decision to enter into this Agreement is conditioned upon the Executive’s agreement to be bound by the restrictions contained in this Article 8.  This Article 8 shall be void if a Change in Control occurs before the Executive’s employment termination. For purposes of this Article 8 the term “Corporation” includes not only the Corporation but also the Bank.
 
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(a)           Promise of no solicitation .  Subject to Section 8.2 of this Agreement, the Executive promises and agrees that during the Restricted Period (as defined below) the Executive shall not:

(i)            directly or indirectly solicit or attempt to solicit any Customer (as defined below) to accept or purchase Financial Products or Services (as defined below) of the same nature, kind, or variety as provided to the Customer by the Corporation during the year immediately before the Executive’s employment termination with the Corporation,

(ii)           directly or indirectly influence or attempt to influence any Customer, joint venturer, or other business partner of the Corporation to alter that person or entity’s business relationship with the Corporation in any respect, and

(iii)          accept the Financial Products or Services business of any Customer or provide Financial Products or Services to any Customer on behalf of anyone other than the Corporation.

(b)          Promise of no competition .  Except where the employment of the Executive is terminated pursuant to section 3.3 of this Agreement, the Executive promises and agrees that during the Restricted Period the Executive shall not become employed by or serve as a director, partner, consultant, agent, or owner of 2% or more of the outstanding stock of or contractor to any entity providing Financial Products or Services that is located in or conducts business in the Restricted Territory.

(c)           Promise of no raiding/hiring While employed by the Bank and, in the event of a termination of Executive’s employment, for a period of one year thereafter, in consideration of the obligations of the Bank hereunder, including without limitation, its disclosure of Confidential Information to Executive, Executive shall not directly or indirectly, for himself or as principal, agent, independent contractor, consultant, director, officer, member, or employee of any other person, firm, corporation, partnership, company, association or other entity, either: (a) hire, attempt to employ, contact with respect to hiring, solicit with respect to hiring or enter into any contractual arrangement with any employee or former employee of the Bank or any Bank Affiliate, or (b) induce or otherwise advise or encourage any employee of the Bank or any Bank Affiliate to leave his or her employment; unless, in each such case, such employee or former employee has not been employed by the Bank or a Bank affiliate for a period in excess of six months at the time of such solicitation, attempt to employ, contact, employment or inducement.

(d)          Promise of no disparagement .  Subject to Section 8.2, the Executive promises and agrees that during the Restricted Period the Executive shall not cause statements to be made (whether written or oral) that reflect negatively on the business reputation of the Corporation.  The Corporation likewise promises and agrees that during the Restricted Period the Corporation shall not cause statements to be made (whether written or oral) that reflect negatively on the reputation of the Executive.  Nothing herein is intended to restrict the Executive or the Corporation from testifying truthfully in response to any lawfully served subpoena or other legal process.
 
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(e)           Acknowledgment .  The Executive and the Corporation acknowledge and agree that the provisions of this Article 8 have been negotiated and carefully determined to be reasonable and necessary for the protection of legitimate business interests of the Corporation.  Both parties agree that a violation of Article 8 is likely to cause immediate and irreparable harm that will give rise to the need for court ordered injunctive relief.  In the event of a breach or threatened breach by the Executive of any provision of this Agreement, the Corporation shall be entitled to obtain an injunction without bond restraining the Executive from violating the terms of this Agreement and to institute an action against the Executive to recover damages from the Executive for such breach.  These remedies for default or breach are in addition to any other remedy or form of redress provided under New York law.  The parties acknowledge that the provisions of this Article 8 survive termination of the employment relationship, but the provisions of this Article 8 shall be null and void if a Change in Control occurs before employment termination.   The parties agree that if any of the provisions of this Article 8 are deemed unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, that such provisions may be stricken as independent clauses by the court in order to enforce the remaining restrictions and that the intent of the parties is to afford the broadest restriction on post-employment activities as set forth in this Agreement.  Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, without limiting the remedies available to the Corporation for violation of this Agreement, and without constituting an election of remedies, if the Executive violates any of the terms of Article 8 the Executive shall forfeit on the Executive’s own behalf and that of his beneficiary(ies) any rights to and interest in any severance or other benefits under this Agreement or other contract the Executive has with the Corporation or the Bank.

(f)            Definitions :

(i)            “Restricted Period” as used herein means the twelve-month period immediately after the Executive’s termination and/or separation of employment with the Corporation, regardless of the reason for termination and/or separation.  The Restricted Period shall be extended in an amount equal to any time period during which a violation of Article 8 of this Agreement is proven.

(ii)           “Restricted Territory” as used herein means: (i) the New York City boroughs of Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens and the Bronx and (ii) Nassau and Suffolk counties in Long Island, New York.

(iii)           “Customer” as used herein means any individual or entity with who or which the Corporation has a contractual or business relationship, or engaged in negotiations toward such a relationship, joint venturer, entity of any sort, or other business partner of the Corporation, with, for or to whom the Corporation has provided Financial Products or Services during the last year of the Executive’s employment with the Corporation; or any individual, joint venturer, entity of any sort, or business partner whom the Corporation has identified as a prospective customer of Financial Products or Services within the last year of the Executive’s employment with the Corporation.
 
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(iv)          “Financial Products or Services” as used herein means any product or service that a financial institution or a financial holding company could offer by engaging in any activity that is financial in nature or incidental to such a financial activity and that is offered by the Corporation or an affiliate on the date of the Executive’s employment termination, including but not limited to banking activities and activities that are closely related and  properly incident to banking, or other products or services of the type of which the Executive was involved during the Executive’s employment with the Corporation.

8.2          Confidential Disclosure in Reporting Violations of Law or in Court Filings.  Executive acknowledges and the Bank and the Corporation agree that Executive may disclose Confidential Information in confidence, directly or indirectly, to federal, state, or local government officials, including, but not limited to, the Department of Justice, the Securities and Exchange Commission, Congress, and any agency Inspector General or to an attorney, for the sole purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law or regulation or making other disclosures that are protected under the whistleblower provisions of state or federal laws or regulations. Executive may also disclose Confidential Information in a document filed in a lawsuit or other proceeding; however, only if the filing is made under seal. Nothing in this Agreement is intended to conflict with federal law protecting confidential disclosures of a trade secret to the government or in a court filing, 18 U.S.C. §1833(b), or to create liability for disclosures of Confidential Information that are expressly allowed by 18 U.S.C. §1833(b).

Article 9
Miscellaneous

9.1          Successors and Assigns .

(a)         This Agreement is binding on successors .  This Agreement shall be binding upon the Bank any successor to the Bank, including any persons acquiring directly or indirectly all or substantially all of the business or assets of the Bank by purchase, merger, consolidation, reorganization, or otherwise.  But this Agreement and the Bank’s obligations under this Agreement are not otherwise assignable, transferable, or delegable by the Bank.

(b)           This Agreement is enforceable by the Executive’s heirs .  This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by the Executive’s personal or legal representatives, executors, administrators, successors, heirs, distributees, and legatees.

(c)           This Agreement is personal in nature and is not assignable .  This Agreement is personal in nature.  Without written consent of the other parties, no party shall assign, transfer, or delegate this Agreement or any rights or obligations under this Agreement except as expressly provided herein.  Without limiting the generality or effect of the foregoing, the Executive’s right to receive payments hereunder is not assignable or transferable, whether by pledge, creation of a security interest, or otherwise, except for a transfer by the Executive’s will or by the laws of descent and distribution.  If the Executive attempts an assignment or transfer that is contrary to this Section 9.1, the Bank shall have no liability to pay any amount to the assignee or transferee.
 
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9.2          Governing Law, Jurisdiction and Forum .  This Agreement shall be construed under and governed by the internal laws of the State of New York, without giving effect to any conflict of laws provision or rule (whether of the State of New York or any other jurisdiction) that would cause the application of the laws of any jurisdiction other than the State of New York.  By entering into this Agreement, the Executive acknowledges that the Executive is subject to the jurisdiction of both the federal and state courts in the State of New York.  Any actions or proceedings instituted under this Agreement shall be brought and tried solely in courts located in Kings County, New York or in the federal court having jurisdiction in Kings County, New York.  The Executive expressly waives the right to have any such actions or proceedings brought or tried elsewhere.

9.3          Entire Agreement .  This Agreement sets forth the entire agreement of the parties concerning the employment of the Executive.  Any oral or written statements, representations, agreements, or understandings made or entered into prior to or contemporaneously with the execution of this Agreement are hereby rescinded, revoked, and rendered null and void.

9.4          Notices .  Any notice under this Agreement shall be deemed to have been effectively made or given if in writing and personally delivered, delivered by mail properly addressed in a sealed envelope, postage prepaid by certified or registered mail, delivered by a reputable overnight delivery service, or sent by facsimile.  Unless otherwise changed by notice, notice shall be properly addressed to the Executive if addressed to the most current address of the Executive in the personnel records of the Bank at the time of the delivery of such notice, and properly addressed to the Bank if addressed to the address of the Bank’s principal office.

9.5          Severability .  If there is a conflict between any provision of this Agreement and any statute, regulation, or judicial precedent, the latter shall prevail, but the affected provisions of this Agreement shall be curtailed and limited solely to the extent necessary to bring them within the requirements of law.  If any provision of this Agreement is held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be indefinite, invalid, void or voidable, or otherwise unenforceable, the remainder of this Agreement shall continue in full force and effect unless that would clearly be contrary to the intentions of the parties or would result in an injustice.

9.6          Captions and Counterparts .  The captions in this Agreement are solely for convenience.  The captions do not define, limit, or describe the scope or intent of this Agreement.  This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.

9.7          Amendment and Waiver .  This Agreement may not be amended, released, discharged, abandoned, changed, or modified except by an instrument in writing signed by each of the parties hereto.  The failure of any party hereto to enforce at any time any of the provisions of this Agreement shall not be construed to be a waiver of any such provision or affect the validity of this Agreement or any part thereof or the right of any party thereafter to enforce each and every such provision.  No waiver of any breach of this Agreement shall be held to be a waiver of any other or subsequent breach.
 
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9.8        FDIC Part 359 Limitations .  Despite any contrary provision within this Agreement, any payments made to the Executive under this Agreement, or otherwise, shall be subject to compliance with 12 U.S.C. 1828 and FDIC Regulation 12 CFR Part 359, Golden Parachute Indemnification Payments, and any other regulations or guidance promulgated thereunder.

9.9          Compliance with Internal Revenue Code Section 409A .  The Bank and the Executive intend that their exercise of authority or discretion under this Agreement shall comply with Internal Revenue Code Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.  If when the Executive’s employment terminates the Executive is a specified employee, as defined in Section 409A, and if any payments under this Agreement, including Articles 4, 5 or 8, will result in additional tax or interest to the Executive because of Section 409A, then despite any provision of this Agreement to the contrary the Executive shall not be entitled to the payments until the earliest of ( x ) the date that is at least six months after termination of the Executive’s employment for reasons other than the Executive’s death, ( y ) the date of the Executive’s death, or ( z ) any earlier date that does not result in additional tax or interest to the Executive under Section 409A.  As promptly as possible after the end of the period during which payments are delayed under this provision, the entire amount of the delayed payments shall be paid to the Executive in a single lump sum.  If any provision of this Agreement does not satisfy the requirements of Section 409A, the provision shall be applied in a manner consistent with those requirements despite any contrary provision of this Agreement.  If any provision of this Agreement would subject the Executive to additional tax or interest under Section 409A, the Bank shall reform the provision.  However, the Bank shall maintain to the maximum extent practicable the original intent of the applicable provision without subjecting the Executive to additional tax or interest, and the Bank shall not be required to incur any additional compensation expense as a result of the reformed provision.  References in this Agreement to Section 409A include the rules, regulations, and guidance of general application issued by the Department of the Treasury under Section 409A.
 
9.10        Guarantee.   The Corporation hereby irrevocably and unconditionally guarantees to the Executive the payment of all amounts, and the performance of all other obligations, due from the Bank in accordance with the terms of this Agreement as and when due without any requirement of presentment, demand of payment, protest or notice of dishonor or nonpayment.
 
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In Witness Whereof , the parties have executed this Employment and Change in Control Agreement as of the date first written above.
 
 
DIME COMMUNITY BANK
     
  By:
/s/ KENNETH J. MAHON
   
Kenneth J. Mahon
   
President & Chief Executive Officer
     
  DIME COMMUNITY BANCSHARES, INC.
   
( as guarantor)
     
  By:
/s/ KENNETH J. MAHON
   
Kenneth J. Mahon
   
President & Chief Executive Officer
     
 
/s/ CONRAD GUNTHER
 
Conrad Gunther
 
 
16


Exhibit 10.45
 
PURCHASE AND SALE AGREEMENT

Between

THE DIME SAVINGS BANK OF WILLIAMSBURGH,
as Seller,

and

TAVROS CAPITAL PARTNERS USA LLC,
as Purchaser

Dated: October 7, 2015
 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

   
Page
ARTICLE I
 
SALE OF PROPERTY
1
   
1.1
Sale
1
1.2
Excluded Property
2
1.3
Development Rights Survey
3
1.4
Access to Property
3
     
ARTICLE II
 
PURCHASE PRICE
3
   
2.1
Purchase Price
3
     
ARTICLE III
 
DEPOSIT
 
4
     
3.1
Deposit
4
3.2
Application of Deposit
4
3.3
Escrow Agent
5
     
ARTICLE IV
 
CLOSING, PRORATIONS AND CLOSING COSTS
7
   
4.1
Closing
7
4.2
Prorations
7
4.3
Transfer Taxes
7
4.4
Sales Taxes
8
4.5
Closing Costs
8
     
ARTICLE V
 
TITLE AND SURVEY MATTERS
8
   
5.1
Title
8
5.2
Violations
14
 
i

ARTICLE VI
 
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF SELLER
14
   
6.1
General Representations
14
6.2
Seller's Knowledge
16
6.3
Survival
16
6.4
Limitation of Liability
17
6.5
Representations as a Condition to Closing
17
     
ARTICLE VII
 
"AS IS" SALE
18
   
ARTICLE VIII
 
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF PURCHASER
18
   
8.1
Authority
18
8.2
Bankruptcy or Debt of Purchaser
19
8.3
No Financing Contingency
19
8.4
Purchaser's Acknowledgment
19
8.5
Patriot Act
20
     
ARTICLE IX
 
SELLER'S INTERIM OPERATING COVENANTS
21
   
9.1
Operations
21
9.2
Maintain Insurance
22
9.3
Notices of Violation; Other Notices
22
9.4
Permits and Licenses
22
9.5
Casualty and Condemnation
22
9.6
Leases
22
9.7
Zoning
22
9.8
Subdivision
22
9.9
Cornice Removal
23
     
ARTICLE X
 
CLOSING CONDITIONS
24
   
10.1
Conditions to Obligations of Seller
24
10.2
Conditions to Obligations of Purchaser
24
 
ii

ARTICLE XI
 
CLOSING
 
25
     
11.1
Seller's Closing Obligations
25
11.2
Intentionally Omitted
27
11.3
Purchaser's Closing Obligations
27
     
ARTICLE XII
     
RISK OF LOSS
27
   
12.1
Casualty
27
12.2
Condemnation
28
12.3
General Obligations Law
29
     
ARTICLE XIII
 
DEFAULT
29
   
13.1
Default by Seller
29
13.2
Default by Purchaser
29
     
ARTICLE XIV
     
BROKERS
30
   
14.1
Brokerage Indemnity
30
     
ARTICLE XV
     
PUBLICATION AND CONFIDENTIALITY
30
   
15.1
Publication
30
15.2
Confidentiality
31
     
ARTICLE XVI
 
RESERVED
 
31
     
ARTICLE XVII
 
MISCELLANEOUS
31
   
17.1
Notices
31
17.2
Governing Law; Venue
32
17.3
Headings
33
17.4
Business Days
33
 
iii

17.5
Counterpart Copies
33
17.6
Binding Effect
33
17.7
Successors and Assigns
33
17.8
Assignment
33
17.9
Interpretation
34
17.10  
Entire Agreement
34
17.11
Severability
34
17.12  
Survival
34
17.13
Exhibits
34
17.14
Limitation of Liability
34
17.15  
Prevailing Party
34
17.16
Real Estate Reporting Person
35
17.17  
No Recording
35
17.18  
No Other Parties
35
17.19  
Waiver of Trial by Jury
35
17.20  
Cooperation
35
 
iv

LIST OF EXHIBITS AND SCHEDULES
 
Exhibits :

Exhibit A
Land
Exhibit B
Wire Instructions
Exhibit C
Form of Owner's Affidavit
Exhibit D-1
Form of Deed
Exhibit D-2
Form of General Assignment
Exhibit E
Form of Seller's Representation Certificate
Exhibit F
Form of FIRPTA Certificate
Exhibit G
Reserved
Exhibit H
Form of Zoning Lot and Development Agreement
Exhibit I
Form of Lease
Exhibit J
Form of Purchaser's Representation Certificate
Exhibit K
Outline of Tax Lot Subdivision
Exhibit L
Form of Waiver and Subordination
Exhibit M
Seller Premises
Exhibit N
Form of Declaration

Schedules :
 
Schedule 5.1.3
Permitted Exceptions
Schedule 6.1.9
Tax Proceedings
Schedule 6.1.10
Litigation
Schedule 6.1.11
Insurance Policies
 
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PURCHASE AND SALE AGREEMENT

THIS PURCHASE AND SALE AGREEMENT (this " Agreement ") is made and entered into as of the 7 th day of October, 2015 by and between THE DIME SAVINGS BANK OF WILLIAMSBURGH, a New York State chartered Savings Bank (" Seller "), and TAVROS CAPITAL PARTNERS USA LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (" Purchaser ").

WITNESSETH:

WHEREAS , Seller is the fee simple owner of those certain parcels of real property lying and being situated in the Borough of Brooklyn, City of New York, County of Kings, State of New York, at Block 2447, Lots 13, 19, 35, 41 and 135, and commonly known as 275 South 5 th Street, 146 and 150 Marcy Avenue, 205 Havemeyer Street and 262 South 4 th Street, Brooklyn, New York, as further described in Exhibit A attached hereto (the " Land ");

WHEREAS , Seller is also the fee simple owner of that certain parcel of real property lying and being situated in the Borough of Brooklyn, City of New York, County of Kings, State of New York, at Block 2447, Lot 36, and commonly known as 257 South 5 th Street (the " Seller Premises "); and

WHEREAS , upon the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement, Seller desires to sell, and Purchaser desires to acquire, the Land, all Improvements (as hereinafter defined) therein, the Real Property (as hereinafter defined), the Intangible Property (as hereinafter defined) and the Subject Floor Area Development Rights (as defined in the ZLDA) appurtenant to the Seller Premises, and all liabilities, obligations and undertakings arising in connection therewith from and after the Closing (hereinafter defined), except to the extent otherwise provided in the Lease (hereinafter defined) subject, in all respects to such matters as are described or provided for herein.

NOW, THEREFORE , in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements set forth herein and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, and intending to be legally bound, the parties hereto hereby agree as follows:

ARTICLE I

SALE OF PROPERTY

1.1            Sale Subject to and in accordance with the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement, Seller hereby agrees to sell, assign and convey to Purchaser, and Purchaser agrees to purchase, acquire and accept from Seller, all of Seller's right, title and interest in and to the following (collectively, the " Property "):

1.1.1             The Land and buildings, structures, fixtures and improvements thereon (collectively, the " Improvements ");
 

1.1.2             The land lying in the bed of any street, highway, road or avenue, opened or proposed, public or private in front of or adjoining the Land or any portion thereof, to the center line thereof, and any strips and gores adjacent to the Land or any portion thereof, and all right, title and interest of Seller in and to any award made or to be made in lieu of the foregoing or any portion thereof and, subject to the terms hereof, in and to any unpaid award for damage to the Land and Improvements or any portion thereof by reason of any change of grade of any street or any closing of any street, road or avenue;

1.1.3            The rights, privileges, grants and easements appurtenant to the Land, if any, including, without limitation, all development rights, air rights, and all of Seller's right, title and interest, if any, in and to all easements, licenses, covenants and other rights-of-way or other appurtenances used in connection with the beneficial use and enjoyment of the Land (the Land, Improvements and property described in Section 1.1.2 and Section 1.1.3 , collectively, the " Real Property ");

1.1.4            All (i) guarantees, licenses, approvals, certificates, permits, consents, authorizations, variances and warranties and other intangible property relating to the Real Property and (ii) all plans, drawings, specifications, surveys and other technical descriptions relating to the Real Property to the extent in Seller's possession or control (collectively, the " Intangible Property "); and

1.1.5            All right, title and interest of Seller in and to all of the Subject Floor Area Development Rights (as defined in the ZLDA) appurtenant to the Seller Premises and, in connection therewith, the easements set forth in the ZLDA, free from liabilities, liens or other encumbrances, except as set forth herein or in the ZLDA and with no increase in the Purchase Price due and owing to Seller.

1.2           Excluded Property .

1.2.1           Any (i) service contracts, utility agreements, maintenance agreements and other similar contracts or agreements, and any union or other collective bargaining contracts (a) currently in effect with respect to the Property (collectively, the " Existing Contracts ") or (b) entered into after the date hereof in accordance with the terms of this Agreement (collectively, the " New Contracts "; the Existing Contracts and New Contracts are referred to herein as, collectively, the " Contracts "), if any;

1.2.2           Except as expressly set forth in this Agreement, all rights and interests and obligations of Seller as owner of the Property arising prior to the Closing (including, without limitation, tax refunds, casualty and condemnation proceeds, tenant security deposits applied in accordance with the terms of this Agreement, utility deposits and rental arrearages) and attributable to periods prior to the Closing;

1.2.3            Except as expressly set forth in this Agreement, any cause of action or claim of, or against, Seller existing as of Closing; and

1.2.4           All fixtures, machinery, equipment and personal property that Seller is permitted to remove from the Demised Premises (as such term is defined in the Lease) pursuant to the terms of the Lease.
 
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1.3            Development Rights Survey Promptly after the execution of this Agreement, Purchaser shall, at its sole cost and expense, cause an independent, third party architect, engineer, or surveyor to certify to Seller and Purchaser the amount of Retained Floor Area Development Rights (as defined in the ZLDA) (the “ Development Rights Survey ”), which Development Rights Survey shall be binding on Seller and Purchaser absent manifest error. Seller shall cooperate with Purchaser in connection with the performance of the Development Rights Survey and any updates thereto and provide Purchaser’s architect, engineer or surveyor access to the Seller Premises. The parties agree that the Development Rights Survey shall be at Purchaser’s sole cost and expense, that it shall be scheduled in consultation with Seller during normal business hours, that access to the Seller Premises shall be subject to the rights of the tenants therein, and that the architect, engineer or surveyor shall procure and maintain liability insurance, in the form and in the amount customarily carried in connection with the performance of such Development Rights Survey and reasonably satisfactory to Seller.

1.4            Access to Property Purchaser or any other party designated by Purchaser, and their respective agents, shall have the right to enter the Property at all reasonable times, upon reasonable prior notice (which notice may be oral), to (i) examine the Property, (ii) show it to prospective mortgagees, lessees and their respective agents and representatives or others provided that Seller shall have the right to accompany Purchaser and any such interested party at all times while the same are in the Property), and (iii) to conduct such inspections and testing with respect to the Property, including, without limitation, a phase I or phase II environmental assessment, an appraisal, an engineering or property condition report; to make borings in connection with geotechnical testing and to do perform any other physical testing, alterations or work in connection with the demolition, construction and/or development of the Property (or the filings, approvals and/or permits in connection therewith); provided , however , that (a) the same shall be scheduled reasonably in advance with Seller, (b) shall not unreasonably interfere with the conduct of Seller's business operations, (c) shall be conditioned on Purchaser procuring and maintaining liability insurance, in the form and in the amount customarily carried in connection with the performance of such activities and reasonably satisfactory to Seller, (d) shall not occur in any Secure Areas (as defined below), and (e) if requested by Seller, shall occur during non- business hours or weekends. It is acknowledged that Seller may, from time to time, have certain security or confidentiality requirements such that portions of the Property shall be locked and inaccessible to all Persons unless specifically authorized by Seller (any such areas, the " Secure Areas "). Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, it is agreed that Purchaser's right of access to any Secure Areas shall be permitted in the sole and absolute discretion of Seller.

ARTICLE II

PURCHASE PRICE

2.1            Purchase Price The purchase price for the Property shall be Eighty Million Dollars   ($80,000,000.00)  (the " Purchase Price ").  No portion of the Purchase Price is attributable to any personal property included in the transactions. The Purchase Price, net of all prorations and adjustments as provided for herein, shall be paid by Purchaser as follows:
 
3

2.1.1           Five Million Dollars ($5,000,000.00) of the Purchase Price (the " Deposit ") shall be deposited with Stewart Title Insurance Company, as escrow agent (the " Escrow Agent "), by wire transfer of immediately available federal funds pursuant to the wire transfer instructions set forth on Exhibit B attached hereto, simultaneously with the execution and delivery of this Agreement by Purchaser; and

2.1.2            The difference between the Purchase Price and the Deposit (the " Balance of the Purchase Price "), subject to such apportionments and adjustments as are provided herein, shall be paid on the Closing Date (as hereinafter defined) by wire transfer of immediately available federal funds to, or as directed by, Seller simultaneously with the delivery of the Deed (as hereinafter defined).

The Deposit shall be held in escrow and shall be payable in accordance with Article III hereof.

ARTICLE III

DEPOSIT

3.1            Deposit .  Concurrently with the execution of this Agreement, and as a condition precedent to the effectiveness of this Agreement, Purchaser shall deposit with the Escrow Agent the Deposit, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged by Escrow Agent's execution hereof. The Deposit and Interest (as hereinafter defined) accrued thereon shall be held in escrow, and not in trust, by the Escrow Agent at a banking institution approved by Seller.

3.2           Application of Deposit .

3.2.1            If the Closing occurs, then the Deposit shall be paid to Seller and applied against the Purchase Price and the accrued interest on the Deposit (" Interest "), if any, shall, at Purchaser's election, (i) be paid to Seller and credited against the Balance of the Purchase Price or (ii) be paid to Purchaser.

3.2.2            In the event that the Closing does not occur because of a default by Purchaser under this Agreement and Seller elects to terminate this Agreement as a result thereof, the Deposit and all Interest shall be paid to and retained by Seller pursuant to Section 13.2 hereof.
 
3.2.3           In the event that the Closing does not occur because of a default by Seller under this Agreement, or in the event that any of the closing conditions set forth in this Agreement are not satisfied, and Purchaser elects to terminate this Agreement as a result thereof, the Deposit and all Interest shall be paid to and retained by Purchaser pursuant to Section 13.1 hereof.

3.2.4            The party receiving the Interest shall pay any income taxes thereon. Seller and Purchaser shall each provide the other with its respective tax identification number promptly after the date of this Agreement.
 
4

3.2.5            If either party makes a demand upon the Escrow Agent for delivery of the Deposit and Interest, the Escrow Agent shall promptly give notice to the other party of such demand. If a notice of objection to the proposed payment is not received by the Escrow Agent from the other party within ten (10) calendar days of its receipt of notice from the Escrow Agent, the Escrow Agent is hereby authorized to deliver the Deposit and all Interest to the party that made the demand. If the Escrow Agent receives a notice of objection within said ten (10) calendar day period, then the Escrow Agent shall have the right, at its option, to either (A) continue to hold the Deposit and Interest and thereafter pay it to the party entitled thereto when the Escrow Agent (i) receives a written notice from the objecting party withdrawing the objection, (ii) receives a written notice signed by both parties directing disposition of the Deposit and Interest or (iii) receives a final judgment or order of a court of competent jurisdiction or (B) deposit the same with a court of competent jurisdiction in the State of New York, and Escrow Agent shall rely upon the decision of such court or a written statement executed by both Seller and Purchaser setting forth how the Deposit and Interest should be released.

3.3            Escrow Agent The parties further agree that:

3.3.1             The Escrow Agent is executing this Agreement to acknowledge the Escrow Agent's responsibilities hereunder, which may be modified only by a written amendment signed by all of the parties hereto. Any amendment to this Agreement that is not signed by the Escrow Agent shall be effective as to the parties thereto, but shall not be binding on the Escrow Agent. Escrow Agent shall accept the Deposit with the understanding of Seller and Purchaser that Escrow Agent is not a party to this Agreement except to the extent of its specific responsibilities hereunder, and does not assume or have any liability for the performance or nonperformance of Purchaser or Seller hereunder to either of them.

3.3.2           The Escrow Agent shall be protected in relying upon the accuracy, acting in reliance upon the contents, and assuming the genuineness of any notice, demand, certificate, signature, instrument or other document which is given to the Escrow Agent without verifying the truth or accuracy of any such notice, demand, certificate, signature, instrument or other document;

3.3.3           The Escrow Agent shall not be bound in any way by any other agreement or understanding between Seller and Purchaser, whether or not the Escrow Agent has knowledge thereof or consents thereto unless such consent by Escrow Agent is given in writing.

3.3.4            The Escrow Agent's sole duties and responsibilities shall be to hold and disburse the Deposit and Interest accrued thereon in accordance with this Agreement.

3.3.5            The Escrow Agent shall not be liable for any action taken or omitted by the Escrow Agent in good faith and believed by the Escrow Agent to be authorized or within its rights or powers conferred upon it by this Agreement, except for damage caused by the gross negligence, bad faith or willful misconduct of the Escrow Agent.

3.3.6            Upon the disbursement of the Deposit and Interest in accordance with this Agreement, the Escrow Agent shall be relieved and released from any liability under this Agreement.
 
5

3.3.7           The Escrow Agent may resign at any time upon at least ten (10) days prior written notice to Seller and Purchaser. If, prior to the effective date of such resignation, Seller and Purchaser shall each have approved, in writing, a successor escrow agent, then upon the resignation of the Escrow Agent, the Escrow Agent shall deliver the Deposit and Interest to such successor escrow agent. From and after such resignation and the delivery of the Deposit and Interest accrued thereon to such successor escrow agent, the Escrow Agent shall be fully relieved of all of its duties, responsibilities and obligations under this Agreement, all of which duties, responsibilities and obligations shall be performed by the appointed successor escrow agent. If for any reason, Seller and Purchaser shall not approve a successor escrow agent within such period, the Escrow Agent may bring any appropriate action or proceeding for leave to deposit the Deposit and Interest with a court of competent jurisdiction, pending the approval of a successor escrow agent, and upon such deposit the Escrow Agent shall be fully relieved of all of its duties, responsibilities and obligations under this Agreement.

3.3.8           Seller and Purchaser hereby agree to, jointly and severally, indemnify, defend and hold the Escrow Agent harmless from and against any liabilities, damages, losses, costs or expenses incurred by, or claims or charges made against, the Escrow Agent (including reasonable attorneys' fees, expenses and court costs) by reason of the Escrow Agent's acting or failing to act in connection with any of the matters contemplated by this Agreement as escrow agent or in carrying out the terms of this Agreement as escrow agent, except as a result of the Escrow Agent's gross negligence, bad faith or willful misconduct.

3.3.9           Subject to the provisions of Section 3.2.5 , in the event that a dispute arises in connection with this Agreement, or as to the rights of either Seller or Purchaser in and to, or the disposition of, the Deposit and Interest, the Escrow Agent shall have the right to (w) hold and retain the Deposit and Interest until such dispute is settled or finally determined by litigation, arbitration or otherwise, or (x) deposit the Deposit and Interest with an appropriate court of law, following which the Escrow Agent shall thereby and thereafter be relieved and released from any liability or obligation under this Agreement, or (y) institute an action in interpleader or other similar action permitted by stakeholders in the State of New York, or (z) interplead any of the parties hereto in any action or proceeding which may be brought to determine the rights of Seller and Purchaser to all or any part of the Deposit and Interest.

3.3.10          The Escrow Agent shall not have any liability or obligation for loss of all or any portion of the Deposit or Interest by reason of the insolvency or other action or omission of the institution of depository with whom the applicable escrow account is maintained.

3.3.11          Escrow Agent shall not be liable or responsible for any failure, refusal or inability of the depository into which the Deposit is deposited to pay the Deposit at Escrow Agent’s direction, or for levies by taxing authorities based upon the taxpayer identification number used to establish this interest bearing account. Escrow Agent shall not be responsible for any interest except for such interest as is actually received (which interest received shall be added to and considered part of the Deposit), nor shall Escrow Agent be responsible for the loss of any interest arising from the closing of any account or the sale of any certificate of deposit or other instrument prior to maturity.
 
6

ARTICLE IV

CLOSING, PRORATIONS AND CLOSING COSTS

4.1           Closing .

4.1.1           The closing of the purchase and sale of the Property (the " Closing ") shall be held at the offices of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP, Four Times Square, New York, New York, 10036, at 2:00 p.m. local time, or, if Purchaser's lender requests, at the offices of Purchaser's lender or its counsel located in New York, New York, on February 18, 2016 TIME BEING OF THE ESSENCE (such date, or the date to which such date is adjourned pursuant to the express written terms hereof, the " Scheduled Closing Date " ), subject to any adjournments as expressly permitted under this Agreement. Each of Seller and Purchaser shall have the one-time right to adjourn the Scheduled Closing Date for up to fifteen (15) days upon prior written notice to the other party at least five (5) Business Days prior to the Scheduled Closing Date, time being of the essence as to such delivery date, separate and apart from other extension or adjournment rights provided for herein. For the avoidance of doubt, each of Seller and Purchaser acknowledges and agrees that TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE with respect to the performance by Purchaser and Seller of their respective obligations to close the transactions contemplated hereunder on the Scheduled Closing Date (as the same may be adjourned in accordance with the terms hereof).

4.1.2           As used herein the term " Closing Date " shall mean the date on which the Closing actually occurs. In order to facilitate the timely and expeditious closing of title and the payment of the Purchase Price on the Closing Date, Seller and Purchaser shall conduct and complete a comprehensive pre-closing on the Business Day or Business Days (as may be necessary) prior to the Closing Date.

4.2            Prorations . Except as otherwise provided under this Agreement, in consideration of the Lease to be entered into at Closing pursuant to the terms hereof by the sole member of Seller, The Dime Savings Bank of Williamsburgh, a New York State chartered savings bank (" Tenant "), and Tenant's obligations under the Lease, there shall be no prorations, credits or adjustments hereunder of any items, including, without limitation, rents, additional rents, real estate taxes and assessments, personal property taxes, business improvement district assessments and charges, vault charges and special assessments, charges for telephone, electric, sewer, water, gas, steam and other utility bills, trash removal bills, janitorial and maintenance service bills, insurance premiums, fees and other amounts payable under the Licenses and Permits or any other operating or administrative expenses relating to the Property, it being the intention of the parties that all such charges remain the sole obligation and responsibility of Tenant after Closing pursuant to, and to the extent specifically provided in, the terms of the Lease. Seller and Purchaser acknowledge that such prorations shall be made pursuant to Section 21.6 of the Lease upon the expiration or termination thereof.

4.3            Transfer Taxes . Seller shall pay at Closing all transfer taxes imposed upon the conveyance of the Property hereunder (including as relates to the Deed and the ZLDA), pursuant to Section 1402 of the New York State Tax Law and Title 11 of Chapter 21 of the Administrative Code of the City of New York (the " Transfer Taxes " ) and agrees to indemnify and hold Purchaser harmless with respect to any loss, cost, cause of action or claim of any nature relating thereto. Seller shall file or cause to be filed all necessary tax returns with respect to all such Transfer Taxes and, to the extent required by applicable law, Purchaser will join in the execution of any such tax returns. The provisions of this Section 4.3 shall survive the Closing.
 
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4.4            Sales Taxes . Although it is not anticipated that any sales tax shall be due and payable in connection with the transactions contemplated hereunder, Purchaser agrees that Purchaser shall pay any and all New York State and New York City sales and/or compensating use taxes imposed upon or due in connection with the transactions contemplated hereunder (but not any such taxes which are attributable to any period prior to the Closing Date, which shall be Seller's obligation). Purchaser shall file all necessary tax returns with respect to all such taxes and Seller will cooperate with Purchaser's efforts with respect to such sales and use taxes and related filings, including by filing such forms as requested by Purchaser and joining in the execution of any such tax returns. There shall be no allocation of the Purchase Price to any personal property included in the transactions contemplated hereunder. The provisions of this Section 4.4 shall survive the Closing.

4.5           Closing Costs .
 
4.5.1            Purchaser shall pay all recording fees and charges associated with the recordation of the Deed, other than the Transfer Taxes which are payable by Seller under Section 4.3 and other than any recording fees and charges in connection with the satisfaction, discharge and other release documents for all title matters that are not Permitted Exceptions (as hereinafter defined). Seller shall pay all fees and commissions due to the Broker (as hereinafter defined) in accordance with Section 14.1 . Seller shall pay all recording fees and charges in connection with the satisfaction, discharge and other release documents for all title matters that are not Permitted Exceptions. Purchaser shall pay all title insurance premiums, title examination fees and survey costs incurred by Purchaser. Seller and Purchaser shall each pay 50% of all escrow fees, if any. All other costs, fees, expenses and charges of any kind incident to the sale and conveyance of the Property from Seller to Purchaser, including attorneys' fees and consultants' fees (except as otherwise provided in Section 17.15 ), shall be borne by the party incurring the same.

ARTICLE V

TITLE AND SURVEY MATTERS

5.1           Title .

5.1.1             Purchaser's Title Commitment and Survey . Purchaser shall, at its sole cost and expense, within five (5) Business Days from the date hereof, order a title insurance commitment for an owner's policy of title insurance for the Property (" Purchaser's Title Commitment ") from Stewart Title Insurance Company (" Purchaser's Title Company "), setting forth the status of title to the Property and any defects in or objections or exceptions to title to the Property, together with true and correct copies of all instruments giving rise to such defects, objections or exceptions. Purchaser shall instruct Purchaser's Title Company to forward a copy of Purchaser's Title Commitment and any updates thereof to Seller's attorney simultaneously with (or promptly after) the issuance thereof to Purchaser. Seller has delivered to Purchaser a copy of a survey of the Property by New York City Land Surveyors, PC (" Surveyor "), dated September 10, 2015 (the " Survey "). Purchaser may , at its sole cost and expense, order an updated Survey or survey inspection from the Surveyor. Purchaser shall instruct the Surveyor to forward a copy of any updated Survey or survey inspection and any further updates thereof to Seller's attorney and Purchaser's Title Company simultaneously with (or promptly after) the issuance thereof to Purchaser.
 
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5.1.2           Title Objections .           (a) If Purchaser's Title Commitment, the Survey or any update of either the Survey or Purchaser's Title Commitment shall reveal or disclose any defects, objections or exceptions in the title to the Property which are not Permitted Exceptions (as hereinafter defined) and to which Purchaser objects (" Title Objections "), then Purchaser (or Purchaser's counsel) shall notify Seller (or Seller's counsel) of such Title Objections in writing ( " Exception Notice " ) within ten (10) Business Days of Purchaser's receipt of Purchaser's Title Commitment and the Survey or within five (5) Business Days of Purchaser's receipt of any update of Purchaser's Title Commitment or the Survey, as applicable (but in any event prior to the Closing Date).

(b)            If Purchaser does not notify Seller in writing of any such Title Objections within the time period set forth in this Section 5.1.2 , then Purchaser shall be deemed to have accepted the applicable matter as reflected in Purchaser's Title Commitment and any updates received by Purchaser, and Purchaser shall be deemed to have waived any claims, defects or exceptions which it might otherwise have raised with respect to the matters reflected therein and the same shall be deemed to be Permitted Exceptions for all purposes of this Agreement.

5.1.3             Permitted Exceptions to Title . Subject to the terms and provisions of this Agreement, the Property shall be sold and conveyed subject only to the following exceptions to title (the " Permitted Exceptions " ):

(a)            All presently existing and future liens for unpaid real estate taxes and water and sewer charges not due and payable as of the date of the Closing, subject to adjustment as hereinabove provided or which are made Seller's obligation under the Lease;

(b)            Any state of facts shown on the Survey (other than any Title Objections that Seller is expressly obligated pursuant to the terms hereof to remove prior to Closing);

(c)            all laws, ordinances, rules and regulations of any Governmental Authority (as hereinafter defined), as the same now exist or may be hereafter modified, supplemented, promulgated, meted or issued;

(d)            the right, lack of right or restricted right of any owner of the Property to construct and/or maintain (and the right of any Governmental Authority to require the removal of) any vault or vaulted area, in or under the streets, sidewalks or other areas abutting the Property, and any applicable licensing statute, ordinance and regulation, the terms of any license pertaining thereto and the lien of vault taxes, provided any such vault taxes or charges which are then due and payable are paid by Seller at Closing and any such vault taxes or charges which are not then due and payable are apportioned as provided in this Agreement (or are made Seller's obligation under the Lease);
 

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(e)            all presently existing and future liens of real estate assessments and water rates, water meter charges, water frontage charges and sewer taxes, rents and charges, if any, provided that such items are not, as of the Closing, due and payable and are apportioned as provided in this Agreement;

(f)             all violations of laws, ordinances, orders, requirements or regulations of any Governmental Authority, having jurisdiction with respect to the Property whether or not noted in the records of, or issued by, any Governmental Authority, existing on the Closing Date or hereafter issued or noted, but specifically not including fines or penalties resulting from such violations;

(g)            all possible minor encroachments and/or projections of stoop areas, roof cornices, window trims, vent pipes, cellar doors, steps, columns and column bases, flue pipes, signs, piers, lintels, window sills, fire escapes, satellite dishes, protective netting, sidewalk sheds, ledges, fences, coping walls (including retaining walls and yard walls), air conditioners and the like, if any, on, under or above any street or highway, the Property or any adjoining property including, without limitation, the roof cornice located on the northwest corner of the roof on the improvements located on Block 2447 Lot 36 and shown on the Survey, subject to the terms of the ZLDA (as hereinafter defined);

(h)            standard printed exclusions from coverage contained in the form of title policy or "marked-up" title commitment employed by the Title Company;

(i)             such matters as the Purchaser's Title Company shall be willing to omit as exceptions to coverage or affirmatively insure over at no cost or expense to Purchaser with respect to an owner's policy of title insurance issued by Purchaser's Title Company on the Closing Date and the title insurance policy for Purchaser's lender;

(j)            minor variations between the tax lot lines and the description of the Land set forth on Exhibit A attached hereto and made a part hereof;

(k)            all utility easements of record;

(l)            the exceptions set forth on Schedule 5.1.3 ;

(m)          any matter that is deemed a Permitted Exception in accordance with Section 5.1.2(b) of this Agreement;

(n)            any liens, encumbrances and other matters created by or on behalf of Purchaser, including, without limitation, any documents or instruments to be recorded as part of any financing for the acquisition of the Property by Purchaser;

(o)            any exception not included in the Purchaser's Exception Notice (hereinafter defined) or deemed to be a Permitted Exception pursuant to the terms hereof; and
 
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(p)            any other matter or thing affecting title to the Property that Purchaser shall have expressly agreed in writing to accept.

5.1.4            Seller's Title Company . Notwithstanding the provisions of this Article V , in the event that Purchaser's Title Company shall raise any Title Objection which is not a Permitted Exception, or notwithstanding proof or evidence delivered by Seller sufficient to permit said Title Objections to be omitted, Purchaser's Title Company shall refuse to omit said Title Objection, Seller shall have no obligation to eliminate such Title Objection and Purchaser shall have no right to terminate the Agreement by reason of such exception if another nationally recognized title company authorized to do business in New York shall be prepared to insure title to the Property at regular rates without such Title Objection and the matter giving rise to such Title Objection shall be deemed to constitute a Permitted Exception hereunder, provided such nationally recognized title company agrees in writing to omit such Title Objection at no additional cost.

5.1.5            Elimination of Liens .

(a)            Notwithstanding anything in this Article V to the contrary, Seller shall be obligated to obtain the release, satisfaction and otherwise discharge of record (or with respect to (1) below, an assignment to Purchaser's lender, if requested by Purchaser) prior to Closing (1) the lien of any mortgage, deed of trust, security agreement, financing statement, or any other instrument which evidences or secures indebtedness secured by the Property, (2) a mechanics' or materialmans' lien (including any broker's lien), a judgment lien, or any other lien that results from the failure of Seller to pay a claim for work performed or labor or materials furnished (other than with the prior written approval of Purchaser), (3) any encumbrances voluntarily recorded or otherwise placed by Seller against the Property on or following the date hereof without the prior written approval by Purchaser (items (1)-(3), the " Required Removal Encumbrances " ), and (4) any other lien, judgment or other encumbrance that would not fall within the definition of a Required Removal Encumbrance, that is not a Permitted Exception and which can be satisfied by the payment of a liquidated sum not in excess of $400,000 in the aggregate (such amount, the " Other Liens Cap " ) for all such other liens (the items described in the preceding subclause (4) being " Other Liens "). Seller, in its discretion, may adjourn the Closing Date for up to sixty (60) days in the aggregate in order to eliminate any Other Liens (which are not Permitted Exceptions); provided , however , that in no event shall Seller be permitted to adjourn the Closing Date pursuant to the terms of this Section 5.1.4 to a date which is more than one (1) year from the date hereof. In lieu of eliminating any title defects which are not Permitted Exceptions which Seller shall be required, pursuant to the express terms hereof, to eliminate under this Agreement, Seller may deposit with Purchaser's Title Company such amount of money as may be determined by Purchaser's Title Company as being sufficient to induce Purchaser's Title Company, without the payment of any additional premium or at any cost to Purchaser, to omit such title defects which are not Permitted Exceptions from Purchaser's title insurance policy and the title insurance policy for Purchaser's lender. If, as of the Closing Date, there are any title defects (which are not Permitted Exceptions or are not otherwise omitted from Purchaser's title insurance policy without the payment of additional premiums or cost to Purchaser), then, subject to Seller's right to adjourn, upon at least five (5) Business Days' prior notice to Purchaser (or such lesser period during the five (5) Business Days prior to the Scheduled Closing Date), the Closing Date for up to sixty (60) days in the aggregate in order to eliminate any such title defects (but in no event beyond the date which is one (1) year after the date hereof), Purchaser shall have the right (as its sole and exclusive remedy with respect to such matters) either (I) to terminate this Agreement by delivering notice thereof to Seller, in which event Purchaser shall be entitled to the return of the Deposit and Interest and its rights pursuant to Section 13.1 of this Agreement, and neither party shall have any obligations hereunder except those expressly stated to survive the termination of this Agreement, or (II) to waive, in writing, its objection thereto and consummate the Closing, in which event (i) such title defects shall thereupon constitute Permitted Exceptions for all purposes of this Agreement and (ii) Seller shall be obligated, at Closing, to remove any Required Removal Encumbrances which are not Permitted Exceptions and Purchaser shall be entitled to a credit against the Balance of the Purchase Price in an amount equal to the sum of (x) the amount necessary to discharge of record and/or satisfy all of the Required Removal Encumbrances and (y) the lesser of (A) the amount necessary to discharge of record and/or satisfy all of the unsatisfied Other Liens or (B) the Other Liens Cap. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Seller shall have an obligation hereunder to discharge and/or satisfy all Required Removal Encumbrances and Other Liens (subject to the cap on Other Liens set forth herein) at or prior to Closing and Seller's failure to do so shall constitute a material default by Seller and the provisions of Section 13.1 shall apply; provided , that Purchaser may, at Purchaser's sole discretion, proceed to the Closing and accept a credit against the Purchase Price equal to the sum of (x) the amount necessary to discharge of record and/or satisfy all of the Required Removal Encumbrances and (y) the lesser of (A) the amount necessary to discharge of record and/or satisfy all of the unsatisfied Other Liens or (B) the Other Liens Cap.
 
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(b)            Notwithstanding anything in clause (a) hereof to the contrary, Purchaser may (in its sole discretion) accept such title as Seller can convey, without reduction of the Purchase Price or any credit or allowance on account thereof, except as in Section 5.1.5(a) set forth, or any claim against Seller. The acceptance of the Deed by Purchaser shall be deemed to be full performance of, and discharge of, every agreement and obligation on Seller's part to be performed under this Agreement, except for such matters which are expressly stated in this Agreement to survive the Closing, to the limit of such survival, if any.

5.1.6            Payment from Balance of the Purchase Price Any Required Removal Encumbrances or Other Liens, together with the cost of recording or filing any instruments necessary to discharge such Required Removal Encumbrances or Other Liens, may, in Seller's discretion, be paid out of the proceeds of the Balance of the Purchase Price payable at the Closing. Seller hereby agrees to deliver to Purchaser, at least three (3) Business Days prior to the Closing Date, instruments in recordable form sufficient, in Purchaser's and Purchaser's Title Company's reasonable discretion, to discharge any such Required Removal Encumbrances. Upon request of Seller, delivered to Purchaser no later than three (3) Business Days prior to the Closing, Purchaser shall instruct the Escrow Agent to apply closing funds to the order of the holder of any such Required Removal Encumbrances or Other Liens, and including any interest and/or penalties, (the " Encumbrance Release Funds " ) and Purchaser shall be entitled to a credit against the Closing Balance in the amount of such Encumbrance Release Funds.

5.1.7            Affidavits . If Purchaser's Title Commitment discloses judgments, bankruptcies or other returns against persons having names the same as or similar to that of Seller, then Seller, upon request, shall deliver to Purchaser's Title Company affidavits, in form 12 reasonably acceptable to Purchaser's Title Company and to Seller, stating that such judgments, bankruptcies or other returns are not against such Seller. In addition, at Closing, Seller shall deliver an Owner's Affidavit in the form attached hereto as Exhibit C .
 
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5.1.8    Parties-In-Interest Certification .

(a)            Promptly after the execution and delivery of this Agreement, Purchaser, at its sole cost and expense, shall obtain and deliver to Seller and its counsel a certification of the "parties in interest" (as defined in the ZLDA) to the Seller Premises and the Land (the " Certification ") by Purchaser's Title Company, certifying to Seller and Purchaser the metes and bounds description of the Seller Premises and the Land, the identity of the "parties in interest" owning fee simple to the Seller Premises and the Land, and the identity of all other "parties in interest" with respect to the Seller Premises and the Land. Purchaser, at its sole cost and expense, shall cause the Purchaser's Title Company to update the Certification as of the Closing Date (as hereinafter defined). Seller shall use commercially reasonable efforts (which efforts do not include an obligation to expend more than $100,000.00 in the aggregate and/or an obligation to commence litigation or institute other legal proceedings) to cause to be executed, acknowledged and delivered at the Closing, a waiver and subordination substantially in the form annexed hereto as Exhibit L (" Waiver and Subordination ") from each holder of a mortgage encumbering the Seller Premises and from any other party in interest with respect to the Seller Premises shown on the Certification issued at Closing in connection with the ZLDA, unless Seller otherwise disposes of the interest of such parties at or prior to the Closing.

(b)            Seller, at Seller's sole cost and expense, shall use commercially reasonable efforts (which efforts do not include an obligation to expend more than $100,000.00 in the aggregate and/or an obligation to commence litigation or institute other legal proceedings) to remove (or shall take such actions as are required for the Purchaser's Title Company to provide affirmative title insurance coverage to the reasonable satisfaction of Purchaser as part of the Endorsement, as hereinafter defined, with respect to) any defect, lien, encumbrance or violation relating to or attaching to the Subject Floor Area Development Rights, whether now existing or hereafter arising prior to the Closing Date, which would prevent the creation of the Combined Zoning Lot (as defined in the ZLDA) or would prevent the transfer of the Subject Floor Area Development Rights (as defined in the ZLDA).

(c)            The Purchaser's Title Company shall, at the Closing and at Purchaser's sole cost and expense, issue to Purchaser affirmative title insurance coverage (free from any and all encumbrances of the type described in Section 5.1.8(b) above) for any rights granted pursuant to the ZLDA, at standard rates, including a standard "New York City Development Rights Endorsement" with respect to the ZLDA (as hereinafter defined) (the " Endorsement " ). If the Purchaser's Title Company will not issue title insurance as required in this Section 5.1.8(c) for any reason (other than as a result of (A) Purchaser's acts, (B) any failure of any "party in interest" or in any Additional Parcels (as defined in the ZLDA) to execute or waive its rights to execute the Declaration (as defined herein), or (C) any failure of any "party in interest" in the Land or in any Additional Parcels (as defined in the ZLDA) to execute, or to subordinate its interests in the Land or such Additional Parcel (as defined in the ZLDA) to, the ZLDA, Purchaser at its sole and absolute discretion may either (I) terminate this Agreement upon notice to Seller and the Escrow Agent and receive a return of the Deposit, in which event no party hereto shall have further rights or obligations hereunder (other than those which are expressly stated to survive the Closing or earlier termination of this Agreement), or (II) consummate the purchase hereunder without such title insurance and without any reduction in the Purchase Price.
 
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5.2            Violations . Purchaser agrees to purchase the Property subject to any and all notes or notices of violations of law, or municipal ordinances, orders, designations or requirements whatsoever noted in or issued by any federal, state, municipal or other governmental department, agency or bureau or any other governmental authority having jurisdiction over the Property (collectively, " Violations " ), or any condition or state of repair or disrepair existing as of the date hereof (including those Violations disclosed by Seller to Purchaser in writing). Purchaser shall accept the Property subject to all Violations, the existence of any conditions at the Property which would give rise to such Violations, if any, and any governmental claims arising from the existence of such Violations, in each case without any abatement of or credit against the Purchase Price. Notwithstanding anything hereinabove to the contrary, (i) any liens, fines, penalties and/or judgment resulting from such Violations shall be governed by Section 5.1.4 above and (ii) if the amounts of any such liens, fines, penalties or judgments resulting from such Violations (together with any Other Liens) shall exceed the Other Liens Cap and the Seller elects not to pay the full amount required to discharge and/or satisfy all such liens, fines, penalties, judgments and Other Liens, then Purchaser may (in its discretion), elect (I) to terminate this Agreement by delivering notice thereof to Seller, in which event Purchaser shall be entitled to the return of the Deposit and Interest and its rights pursuant to Section 13.1 of this Agreement, and neither party shall have any obligations hereunder except those expressly stated to survive the termination of this Agreement, or (II) to consummate the Closing, in which event the parties shall proceed to Closing hereunder and Purchaser shall be entitled to a credit against the Balance of the Purchase Price in an amount equal to the Other Liens Cap.
 
ARTICLE VI

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF SELLER

6.1            General Representations . Seller represents and warrants that the following matters are true and correct as of the date hereof and as of the Closing Date as follows:

6.1.1            Authority . Seller is a limited liability company duly formed, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the State of New York and has the requisite power and authority to enter into and perform the terms of this Agreement and all documents executed by Seller which are to be delivered to Purchaser at Closing (the " Seller Closing Documents " ) in accordance with their respective terms. This Agreement and the Seller Closing Documents are, and at the time of Closing will be, duly authorized, executed and delivered by Seller, the legal, valid and binding obligation of Seller enforceable against Seller in accordance with their respective terms, and do not violate any provision of any agreement or judicial order to which Seller is a party or to which Seller is subject. All documents to be executed by Seller which are to be delivered at Closing will, at the time of Closing, be duly authorized, executed and delivered by Seller and will be legal, valid and binding obligations of Seller. Seller is not subject to any law, order, decree, restriction or agreement which prohibits or would be violated by this Agreement or the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby. Neither the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement nor the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby is prohibited by, or requires Seller to obtain any consent, authorization, approval or registration from any other person or entity or under any law, statute, rule, regulation, judgment, order, writ, injunction or decree which is binding upon Seller.
 

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6.1.2            Bankruptcy or Debt of Seller . Seller has not made a general assignment for the benefit of creditors, filed any voluntary petition in bankruptcy or, to Seller's knowledge, suffered the filing of an involuntary petition by Seller's creditors, suffered the appointment of a receiver to take possession of all, or substantially all, of Seller's assets, suffered the attachment or other judicial seizure of all, or substantially all, of Seller's assets, admitted in writing its inability to pay its debts as they generally come due or made an offer of settlement, extension or composition to its creditors generally. Seller is not insolvent and the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement shall not render Seller insolvent.

6.1.3            Foreign Person Seller is not a "foreign person" within the meaning of Section 1445(f) of the Code.

6.1.4            Patriot Act    (i) Neither Seller nor any person, group, entity or nation that Seller is acting, directly or indirectly for, or on behalf of, is named by any Executive Order (including the September 24, 2001, Executive Order Blocking Property and Prohibiting Transactions With Persons Who Commit, Threaten to Commit, or Support Terrorism) or the United States Treasury Department as a terrorist, "Specially Designated National and Blocked Person," or is otherwise a banned or blocked person, group, entity, or nation pursuant to any Law that is enforced or administered by the Office of Foreign Assets Control ( " OFAC " ), and Seller is not engaging in the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, directly or indirectly, on behalf of, or instigating or facilitating the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, directly or indirectly, on behalf of, any such person, group, entity or nation; and (ii) Seller is not, and shall not become, a person or entity whose activities are regulated by the International Money Laundering Abatement and Financial Anti-Terrorism Act of 2001 or the regulations or orders thereunder.

6.1.5            Leases Neither Seller nor any of its affiliates is a party to any lease or other occupancy agreement affecting the Property (other than, at Closing, the Lease) and the only occupant of the Property is Seller (and at Closing, will be the Tenant pursuant to the Lease).

6.1.6            Contracts .   Schedule 6.1.6 attached hereto is a true, correct and complete list of all Existing Contracts to which the Property is subject which will remain in effect after the Closing Date. Seller has made available to Purchaser true, correct and complete copies of the Existing Contracts.

6.1.7            Condemnation Seller has not received any written notice of any kind, and to Seller's knowledge there are no existing, pending or contemplated condemnation, eminent domain or similar proceedings with respect to the Property or any portion thereof.

6.1.8            Tax Appeal Proceedings . Except as set forth on Schedule 6.1.8    attached hereto, Seller has not filed, and has not retained anyone to file, notices of protest against, or to commence actions to review or seek a refund or reduction of any real property tax assessments ( " Tax Proceedings " ) against the Property which are currently pending.
 
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6.1.9            Litigation Seller has not received actual notice that any action, suit or proceeding has been commenced against Seller in connection with the Property (exclusive of tort and other liability proceeding for which adequate insurance coverage is available and exclusive of the proceedings set forth on Schedule 6.1.9 hereto) and to the best of Seller's knowledge, no action, suit or proceeding is threatened against Seller in connection with the Property.

6.1.10           Purchase Rights There are no rights of first offer to purchase, rights of first refusal to purchase, purchase options or similar rights or pertaining to the Property. Except pursuant to this Agreement, Seller has not conveyed or contracted to convey any air or development rights appurtenant to all or any portion of the Property or the Seller Premises.

6.1.11           Insurance Policy .   Schedule 6.1.11 attached hereto contains a correct and complete list of property and casualty insurance policies and liability insurance policies (collectively, the " Insurance Policies " ) maintained by Seller with respect to the Real Property as of the date hereof.
6.1.12 Environmental Claims . Seller has no pending, or to Seller's knowledge, contingent liability, and has received no written notice, relating to any claim, order or proceeding pursuant to any applicable environmental laws ( " Environmental Claim " ) concerning the Property.

6.1.13           Reports . Seller has provided Purchaser with true, correct and complete copies of all third party environmental reports, engineering reports and property condition reports, in each case as the same relate to the Property and which are either in the possession or under the control of Seller.

6.1.14           Union . Seller is not party to a union contract and there are no retroactive increases or other accrued and unpaid sums owed to any employee which will be binding on Purchaser.

6.2            Seller's Knowledge . For purposes of this Agreement and any Seller Closing Document, whenever the phrases "to Seller's knowledge", "to the current, actual knowledge of Seller" or the "knowledge" of Seller or words of similar import are used, they shall be deemed to refer to the actual, present, conscious knowledge only of Michael Pucella and not any implied, imputed or constructive knowledge of Michael Pucella or any other party, without any independent investigation having been made or any implied duty to investigate or inquire other than reasonable inquiry of the property manager and leasing agent for the Improvements. Seller hereby represents and warrants that Michael Pucella is the representative of Seller with knowledge of the representations, warranties and statements of Seller set forth in this Agreement.

6.3            Survival . The express representations and warranties made in this Agreement by Seller shall not merge into any instrument of conveyance delivered at the Closing and all of the representations and warranties made in this Agreement by Seller shall survive the Closing for a period of six (6) months (the " Survival Period " ); provided , however , that any action, suit or proceeding with respect to the truth, accuracy or completeness of such representations and warranties shall be commenced, if at all, to the extent Purchaser provided notice to Seller of such claim on or before the date which is six (6) months after the date of the Closing and, if Purchaser does not provide such notice to Seller on or before the date that is six (6) months after the date of Closing then any action, suit or proceeding relating thereto shall be void and of no force or effect. The terms and provisions of this Section 6.3 shall survive the Closing.
 
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6.4            Limitation of Liability . From and after the Closing Date, (i) Seller shall have no liability for any losses, claims, costs or expenses suffered or incurred by Purchaser as a result of the inaccuracy of any of the representations or warranties of Seller set forth in Section 6.1 hereof and/or under any of the certificates of Seller updating such representations and warranties set forth in, or delivered pursuant to, this Agreement (" Purchaser's Damages ") if the same in the aggregate shall have a monetary value (or be in a monetary amount claimed) of less than $50,000.00 (the " Liability Basket ") and (ii) the aggregate liability of Seller arising pursuant to or in connection with any such default or inaccuracy of any of such representations and warranties of Seller and/or such certificates of Seller set forth in, or delivered pursuant to, this Agreement shall not exceed $5,000,000.00 (the " Liability Cap "). The terms and provisions of this Section 6.4 shall survive Closing and/or termination of this Agreement.

6.5           Representations as a Condition to Closing .

6.5.1           For purposes of this Agreement, a " Mandatory Representation/Warranty " shall mean any representation and/or warranty made by Seller in this Agreement:

(a)            set forth in Sections   6.1.1 through   6.1.5 , Section  6.1.10 and Section 6.1.14 of this Agreement;
 
(b)          that Seller knows to be untrue as of the date such representation or warranty is made;

(c)            the breach of which would prevent the Title Company from insuring fee simple title to the Land subject only to Permitted Exceptions; and/or

(d)           the breach of which could result in losses, claims, costs or expenses to Purchaser in an amount in excess of One Million Seven Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($1,750,000.00).

6.5.2            If any of the representations and warranties of Seller set forth herein above and all other representations and warranties of Seller contained in this Agreement shall not be true and correct in all material respects as of the Closing Date (except to the extent any such representations and warranties expressly relate to an earlier date and with such changes as are permitted under, or result by reason of the effect of, this Agreement), then:

(a)            If such representation or warranty constitutes a Mandatory Representation/Warranty, then the same shall be deemed a Seller default pursuant to Section 13.1.1 of this Agreement, however, Purchaser's sole remedy with respect to any such default shall be to terminate this Agreement, receive the Deposit and Interest accrued thereunder and, in the event such default is willful, Purchaser shall furthermore be entitled to its remedies under Section 13.1.2 .
 
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(b)            If such representation or warranty does not constitute a Mandatory Representation/Warranty, then the same shall be deemed a breach of representations or warranties under Sections 6.3 and 6.4 and the parties shall continue to be absolutely and unconditionally obligated to consummate the transactions contemplated under this Agreement.

6.5.3            Representation Update . If at any time prior to the Closing any of Seller's representations contained in this Article VI need to be updated in order not to be inaccurate, Seller shall deliver to Purchaser an instrument (the " Representation Update " ) advising Purchaser in which respects such representations must be updated.

ARTICLE VII

"AS IS" SALE

Subject only to Seller's covenants, representations, warranties and indemnifications in this Agreement or any other Seller Closing Document, Purchaser shall purchase the Property in its "AS IS" condition at the Closing Date, subject to all latent and patent defects (whether physical, financial or legal, including permitted title defects), based solely on Purchaser's own inspection, analysis and evaluation of the Property and not in reliance on any records or other information obtained from Seller or on Seller's behalf. Purchaser acknowledges that it is not relying on any statement or representation (other than representations, warranties, covenants and indemnifications contained in this Agreement, or in any other Seller Closing Document) that has been made or that in the future may be made by Seller or any of Seller's employees, agents, attorneys or representatives concerning the condition of the Property (whether relating to physical conditions, operation, performance, title, or legal matters).

ARTICLE VIII

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF PURCHASER

Purchaser represents and warrants to Seller that the following matters are true and correct as of the date hereof.

8.1            Authority Purchaser is a limited liability company, duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of Delaware. This Agreement and all documents executed by Purchaser which are to be delivered to Seller at Closing (the " Purchaser Closing Documents " ) have been or will be on the Closing Date duly authorized, executed and delivered by Purchaser, are the legal, valid and binding obligation of Purchaser enforceable against Purchaser in accordance with their respective terms, and do not violate any provision of any agreement or judicial order to which Purchaser is a party or to which Purchaser is subject. All documents to be executed by Purchaser which are to be delivered at Closing will, at the time of Closing, be duly authorized, executed and delivered by Purchaser, be legal, valid and binding obligations of Purchaser, and will not violate any provision of any agreement or judicial order to which Purchaser is a party or to which Purchaser is subject. Neither the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement nor the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby is prohibited by, or requires Purchaser to obtain any consent, authorization, approval or registration from any other person or entity or under any law, statute, rule, regulation, judgment, order, writ, injunction or decree which is binding upon Purchaser.
 
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8.2            Bankruptcy or Debt of Purchaser . Purchaser represents and warrants to Seller that Purchaser has not made a general assignment for the benefit of creditors, filed any voluntary petition in bankruptcy or, to Purchaser's knowledge, suffered the filing of an involuntary petition by Purchaser's creditors, suffered the appointment of a receiver to take possession of all, or substantially all, of Purchaser's assets, suffered the attachment or other judicial seizure of all, or substantially all, of Purchaser's assets, admitted in writing its inability to pay its debts as they come due or made an offer of settlement, extension or composition to its creditors generally.

8.3            No Financing Contingency . It is expressly acknowledged by Purchaser that the transaction contemplated by this Agreement is not subject to any financing contingency and that no financing for the transaction contemplated by this Agreement shall be provided by Seller.
 
8.4            Purchaser's Acknowledgment Purchaser acknowledges and agrees that, except as expressly provided in this Agreement or any other Seller Closing Document, the form of which is annexed hereto or is otherwise approved by Purchaser, including Article VI hereof, Seller has not made, does not make and specifically disclaims any representations, warranties, promises, covenants, agreements or guaranties of any kind or character whatsoever, whether express or implied, oral or written, past, present or future, of, as to, concerning or with respect to (a) the nature, quality or condition of the Property, including, without limitation, the water, soil and geology, (b) the income to be derived from the Property, (c) the suitability of the Property for any and all activities and uses which Purchaser may conduct thereon, (d) the compliance of or by the Property or its operation with any laws, rules, ordinances, designations or regulations of any applicable governmental authority or body, including, without limitation, the Americans with Disabilities Act, any applicable federal, state or local landmark designations, and any rules and regulations promulgated under or in connection with any of the foregoing, (e) the habitability, merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose of the Property, (f) the current or future real estate tax liability, assessment or valuation of the Property, (g) the availability or non- availability or withdrawal or revocation of any benefits or incentives conferred by any federal, state or municipal authorities or (h) any other matter with respect to the Property, and specifically that Seller has not made, does not make and specifically disclaims any representations regarding solid waste, as defined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations at 40 C.F.R., Part 261, or the disposal or existence, in or on the Property, of any hazardous substance, as defined by the Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act of 1980, as amended, and applicable state laws, and regulations promulgated thereunder. Purchaser further acknowledges and agrees that having been given the opportunity to inspect the Property, except as specifically provided in this Agreement or any other Seller Closing Document including Article VI hereof, Purchaser is relying solely on its own investigation of the Property and not on any information provided or to be provided by, or on behalf of, Seller and that Purchaser has completed its due diligence review of the Property. Purchaser further acknowledges and agrees that any information provided or to be provided with respect to the Property was obtained from a variety of sources and that Seller, except as otherwise expressly provided herein, has not made any independent investigation or verification of such information. PURCHASER FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT, EXCEPT AS EXPRESSLY PROVIDED IN THIS AGREEMENT OR ANY OTHER SELLER DOCUMENT, INCLUDING ARTICLE VI HEREOF, AND AS A MATERIAL INDUCEMENT TO SELLER'S EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF THIS AGREEMENT, THE SALE OF THE PROPERTY AS PROVIDED FOR HEREIN IS ON AN "AS IS, WHERE IS" CONDITION AND BASIS. Purchaser acknowledges, represents and warrants that Purchaser is not in a significantly disparate bargaining position with respect to Seller in connection with the transaction contemplated by this Agreement; that Purchaser freely and fairly agreed to this waiver as part of the negotiations for the transaction contemplated by this Agreement; and that Purchaser is represented by legal counsel in connection with the transaction by this Agreement and Purchaser has conferred with such legal counsel concerning this waiver. The terms and provisions of this Section 8.4 shall survive the Closing and/or termination of this Agreement.
 
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8.5           Patriot Act .

8.5.1            Purchaser hereby represents and warrants that Purchaser (i) is in compliance with the Office of Foreign Assets Control sanctions and regulations promulgated under the authority granted by the Trading with the Enemy Act, 12 U.S.C. § 95 (a) et seq., and the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, 50 U.S.C. § 1701, et seq., as the same apply to it or its activities; (ii) is in compliance with that certain Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001, as amended from time to time (the " Patriot Act ") and all rules and regulations promulgated under such Act applicable to Purchaser; and (iii) (A) is not now, nor has ever been, under investigation by any governmental authority for, nor has been charged with or convicted of a crime under, 18 U.S.C. §§ 1956 or 1957 or any predicate offense thereunder; (B) has never been assessed a civil penalty under any anti-money laundering laws or predicate offenses thereunder; (C) has not had any of its funds seized, frozen or forfeited in any action relating to any anti-money laundering laws or predicate offenses thereunder; (D) has taken such steps and implemented such policies as are reasonably necessary to ensure that it is not promoting, facilitating or otherwise furthering, intentionally or unintentionally, the transfer, deposit or withdrawal of criminally-derived property, or of money or monetary instruments which are (or which Purchaser suspects or has reason to believe are) the proceeds of any illegal activity or which are intended to be used to promote or further any illegal activity; and (E) has taken such steps and implemented such policies as are reasonably necessary to ensure that it is in compliance with all laws and regulations applicable to its business for the prevention of money laundering and with anti-terrorism laws and regulations, with respect both to the source of funds from its investors and from its operations, and that such steps include the development and implementation of an anti-money laundering compliance program within the meaning of Section 352 of the Patriot Act, to the extent such a party is required to develop such a program under the rules and regulations promulgated pursuant to Section 352 of the Patriot Act.

8.5.2            Neither Purchaser nor, to the knowledge of Purchaser, any other person owning a direct or indirect, legal or beneficial interest in Purchaser is in violation of the Executive Order or the Patriot Act.
 
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8.5.3            Neither the Purchaser nor, to the knowledge of Purchaser, any of its constituents, investors (direct or indirect and whether or not holding a legal or beneficial interest) or affiliates, acting or benefiting, directly or indirectly, in any capacity in connection with the Property, this Agreement, or any of the transactions contemplated hereby, is: (i) listed in the Annex to, or otherwise subject to the provisions of, that certain Executive Order No. 13224 on Terrorist Financing, effective September 24, 2001, and relating to Blocking Property and Prohibiting Transactions With Persons Who Commit, Threaten to Commit or Support Terrorism (the " Executive Order "), (ii) that is named as a "specifically designated national (SDN)" on the most current list published by the U.S. Treasury Department Office of Foreign Assets Control at its official website (http://www.treas.gov.ofac/t11sdn.pdf) or at any replacement website or other replacement official publication of such list or that is named on any other Governmental Authority list issued post 9/11/2001, (iii) acting, directly or indirectly, in contravention of any AML Law or terrorist organizations or narcotics traffickers, including those persons that are included on any relevant lists maintained by the United Nations, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Financial Action Task Force on Money Laundering, U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control, U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Central Intelligence Agency, U.S. Internal Revenue Service, all as may be amended or superseded from time to time or (iv) that is owned or controlled by, or acting for or on behalf of, any person described in clause (i), (ii) or (iii) above (a " Prohibited Person " ).

8.5.4            To the knowledge of Purchaser, none of the funds or other assets of the Purchaser constitute property of, or are beneficially owned, directly or indirectly, by any person, entity or government subject to trade restrictions under U.S. law, including but not limited to, (i) the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, 50 U.S.C. §§ 1701 et seq., (ii) The Trading with the Enemy Act, 50 U.S.C. App. 1 et seq., and (iii) any executive orders or regulations promulgated thereunder, with the result that sale to Purchaser, its managing member or any non- managing member (whether directly or indirectly) is prohibited by law (an " Embargoed Person " ). No Embargoed Person has any interest of any nature whatsoever in the Purchaser (whether directly or indirectly), and none of the funds of any Purchaser have been derived from any unlawful activity with the result that an investment in the Purchaser (whether directly or indirectly) or sale to the Purchaser, is prohibited by law or that execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement or any of the transactions contemplated hereby is in violation of law.
 
Any material breach by Purchaser of the foregoing representations and warranties shall be deemed a default by Purchaser under Section 13.2 of this Agreement and (y) the representations and warranties contained in this Article VIII shall be continuing in nature and shall survive the expiration or earlier termination of this Agreement.

ARTICLE IX

SELLER'S INTERIM OPERATING COVENANTS

9.1            Operations . Except as may be expressly provided in this Agreement, Seller agrees, at its cost and expense, to operate, maintain and manage its interest in the Property through the Closing Date or earlier termination of this Agreement in substantially the same manner as it has operated, maintained and managed the Property through the date hereof, subject to ordinary wear and tear and further subject to this Article IX . Seller shall have no obligation to make any capital replacements to the Improvements from and after the date hereof except as required to perform Seller's obligations under any agreement to which Seller is a party. Additionally, Seller shall not mortgage, lien, pledge, encumber, sell or transfer or otherwise dispose of the Property or any interest therein, including, without limitation, any air or development rights related to the Property or the Seller Premises.
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9.2            Maintain Insurance From and after the date hereof and prior to the Closing, Seller shall pay all required premiums and not take or permit any action that would result in the cancellation, termination or suspension of any of the Insurance Policies.

9.3            Notices of Violation; Other Notices . Seller shall promptly notify Purchaser of, and shall promptly deliver to Purchaser a copy of, any notice Seller or any affiliate of Seller may receive or send, from and after the date hereof and prior to the Closing, from or to any governmental authority, concerning a violation of laws at the Property. Seller shall promptly notify Purchaser of, and shall deliver to Purchaser a copy of any notice Seller shall receive prior to the Closing, with respect to any material litigation, arbitration, proceeding or administrative procedure with any person or entity which affects the Property.

9.4            Permits and Licenses Except as required pursuant to the terms of any Permit or License or as otherwise required by any Governmental Authority, Seller will not amend, modify cancel or rescind any of the Permits and Licenses prior to the Closing Date. For purposes of this Agreement, the term " Governmental Authority " means the United States, the State, County and City of New York, and any political subdivision, agency, authority, department, court, commission, board, bureau or instrumentality of any of the foregoing which has or is asserting jurisdiction over any of the parties hereto or over any of the Property.

9.5            Casualty and Condemnation Seller shall promptly deliver to Purchaser notice of any fire or other casualty occurring at the Property between the date hereof and the date of Closing and of which Seller has actual knowledge. Seller shall promptly deliver to Purchaser notice of any actual or threatened condemnation of all or any part of the Property of which Seller obtains knowledge.

9.6            Leases Seller shall not enter into any leases, licenses or other occupancy agreements with respect to the Property.

9.7            Zoning . Seller shall not change or submit any application to change the current zoning or legal use of the Property or the Seller Premises.

9.8            Subdivision Promptly after the date hereof, Seller, at its sole cost and expense, shall take all commercially reasonable actions to pursue the subdivision of Block 2447, Lot 36 (the " Retained Parcel " ) into two (2) separate and distinct tax lots in accordance with the drawings annexed hereto as Exhibit K (the eastern lot therein being hereinafter referred to as the " Eastern Lot " ). In the event that the subdivision is completed on or prior to Closing, or will be completed as a result of the delivery of the deed at Closing, then Purchaser shall accept title to the Eastern Lot for no additional consideration. In the event that such subdivision is not completed by, or as a result of, the Closing, then Seller shall notify Purchaser thereof in writing (the " Subdivision Completion Notice " ) and Purchaser shall have fifteen (15) days from the date such Subdivision Completion Notice is received to elect to accept a deed of the Eastern Lot for no additional consideration, time being of the essence as to the date by which Purchaser must make such election, and Purchaser's failure to notify Seller in writing of its election to accept such deed by the date required hereunder shall be deemed to constitute Purchaser's election to not accept such deed. If the Eastern Lot is transferred to Purchaser after the Closing, then Purchaser and Seller shall execute and record an amendment to the ZLDA to reflect the transfer of the Eastern Lot from the Owner Land to the Developer Land (as such terms are defined in the ZLDA) with no change in the Developer Floor Area Development Rights. The provision of this Section 9.8 shall survive the Closing.
 
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9.9            Cornice Removal . From and after the Closing, Purchaser shall have the right, at Purchaser's sole cost and expense, to remove the so-called "return" portion of the existing cornice (i.e., the entire fascia on the northern side of the Retained Parcel) on the improvements which are situated on the Retained Parcel and which encroaches over the Property, as depicted on Exhibit O annexed hereto such that the northern facade of the improvements on the Retained Parcel permit Purchaser to construct improvements on the Property flush against the improvements on the retained Parcel provided that (i) Purchaser provides a reasonably detailed description of the means and methodology (including, if appropriate, drawings depicting any construction work to be performed on the improvements on the Retained Parcel) for removing such cornice, (ii) Purchaser provides Seller with copies of all legally required permits and approvals required for the removal of such cornice, (iii) Purchaser provide evidence of insurance reasonably satisfactory to Seller with respect to such removal activities and the contractors performing such work, (iv) Purchaser provides Seller with prior written notice of the commencement of such work, (v) subject to compliance with applicable laws and regulations, Purchaser uses commercially reasonable efforts to extend the remaining cornice over the improvements to be constructed on the lot adjacent to the Retained Parcel in accordance with a design which has been previously submitted to and reasonably approved by Seller, (vi) Purchaser shall be responsible for repairing and restoring any damage to the improvements on the Retained Parcel as a result of the removal of such portion of the cornice, and (vii) Purchaser indemnifies and holds Seller harmless from and against any and all actual, out-of-pocket loss, cost, liability or expense incurred or suffered by Seller as a result of Purchaser's removal of the cornice and incorporation of the Remaining Cornice into Purchaser’s improvements including, without limitation, any claims by Purchaser's contractors. For the purpose of clarity, the "return" portion of the existing cornice which encroaches over the Property shall constitute Purchaser’s property following the Closing and neither Seller nor any transferee of Seller shall make any claim in respect thereof or any portion of the Property into which the Remaining Cornice shall have been incorporated (including, without limitation, claims of adverse possession) other than with respect to an alleged breach of the provisions of this Section 9.9. The provisions of this Section 9.9 shall survive the closing.
 
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ARTICLE X
CLOSING CONDITIONS

10.1         Conditions to Obligations of Seller .

10.1.1          The obligations of Seller under this Agreement to sell the Property and consummate the other transactions contemplated hereby shall be subject to the satisfaction of the following conditions on or before the Closing Date, except to the extent that any of such conditions may be waived by Seller in writing at or prior to Closing in Seller's sole and absolute discretion.

(a)            All representations and warranties of Purchaser contained in Article VIII of this Agreement shall be true and correct in all material respects as of the Closing Date, with the same force and effect as if such representations and warranties were made anew as of the Closing Date, and Purchaser shall have performed and complied in all material respects with all covenants and agreements required by this Agreement to be performed or complied with by Purchaser on or prior to the Closing Date.

(b)            Purchaser shall have delivered the documents and instruments required to be delivered by Purchaser pursuant to Section 11.3 of this Agreement.

(c)            No order, writ, injunction or decree (collectively, " Order ") shall have been entered and be in effect by any court of competent jurisdiction or any authority, and no requirement of any Governmental Authority shall have been promulgated or enacted and be in effect, that restrains, enjoins or invalidates the transactions contemplated hereby or the current use of the Property; provided that if any of the foregoing shall be in effect as a direct or indirect result of Seller's acts or omissions taken or omitted by Seller with the intention of preventing the Closing, the failure of Seller to close by reason any of the foregoing shall constitute a default by Seller hereunder, entitling Purchaser to all rights and remedies of Purchaser provided under Section 13.1 hereof.
 
10.1.2         Subject to Article XII and Section 3.2 , in the event Seller shall elect not to close due to the failure of any one or more of the conditions precedent to Seller's obligation to sell set forth in this Section 10.1 which has not been waived by Seller in writing in Seller's sole and absolute discretion and which failure was caused by a default by Purchaser of its obligations hereunder which entitles the Seller to the Deposit and Interest pursuant to Article XIII, Seller shall so notify Purchaser and Escrow Agent no later than the day of Closing in writing specifying the unfulfilled conditions, and, subject to the provisions of Section 3.2.5 , Escrow Agent shall deliver the Deposit and Interest to Seller, and this Agreement shall terminate, and neither party shall have any further obligation under this Agreement (except the Surviving Termination Obligations (as hereinafter defined)).
 
10.2          Conditions to Obligations of Purchaser .
 
10.2.1           The obligations of Purchaser under this Agreement to purchase the Property and consummate the other transactions contemplated hereby shall be subject to the satisfaction of the following conditions on or before the Closing Date, except to the extent that any of such conditions may be waived by Purchaser in writing at or prior to Closing in the Purchaser's sole and absolute discretion.

(a)            Subject to the provisions of Section 6.5 , all representations and warranties of Seller contained in this Agreement shall be true and correct in all material respects as of the Closing Date, with the same force and effect as if such representations and warranties were made anew as of the Closing Date and Seller shall have performed and complied in all material respects with all material covenants and agreements required by this Agreement to be performed or complied with by Seller on or prior to the Closing Date.
 
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(b)            Seller shall have delivered the documents and instruments required to be delivered by Seller pursuant to Section 11.1 of this Agreement.

(c)            No Order shall have been entered and be in effect by any court of competent jurisdiction or any authority, and no requirement of any Governmental Authority shall have been promulgated or enacted and be in effect, that restrains, enjoins or invalidates the transactions contemplated hereby or the current use of the Property; provided , that if any of the foregoing shall be in effect as a direct or indirect result of Purchaser's acts or omissions taken or omitted by Purchaser with the intention of preventing the Closing, the failure of Purchaser to close by reason of any of the foregoing shall constitute a default by Purchaser hereunder, entitling Seller to all rights and remedies of Seller provided under Section 13.2 hereof.

(d)            Title to the Property shall be delivered to Purchaser subject only to the Permitted Exceptions.

10.2.2          Subject to Article XII and Section 3.2 and further subject to Seller's right to adjourn the Closing hereunder, in the event Purchaser shall elect not to close due to the failure of any one or more of the conditions precedent to Purchaser's obligation to consummate the transaction set forth in this Section 10.2 which has not been waived by Purchaser in writing in Purchaser's sole and absolute discretion, Purchaser shall so notify Seller and Escrow Agent no later than the day of Closing in writing specifying the unfulfilled conditions, and, except as otherwise provided in Article XIII , Escrow Agent shall deliver the Deposit to Purchaser and this Agreement shall terminate, and neither party shall have any further obligation under this Agreement (except the Surviving Termination Obligations).

ARTICLE XI

CLOSING

11.1          Seller's Closing Obligations .   Seller shall execute, acknowledge (where applicable) and deliver or cause to be delivered to Purchaser at Closing the following:

11.1.1           A bargain and sale deed without covenants in the form of Exhibit D-1   attached hereto, conveying to Purchaser Seller's right, title and interest in the Real Property, subject only to the Permitted Exceptions (the " Deed " );

11.1.2           A general assignment in the form of Exhibit D-2 , conveying to Purchaser Seller's right, title and interest in the Intangible Property (the " Assignment " );

11.1.3          A certificate in the form of Exhibit E attached hereto (herein called " Seller's Representation Certificate " ), indicating that the representations and warranties of Seller set forth in Article VI are true and correct on the Closing Date, or, if there have been permitted changes after the date hereof to the Closing Date, describing such changes;
 

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11.1.4         The following items to the extent in Seller's possession, or under Seller's control: (i) keys for all entrance doors to the Property and (ii) all warranties, guaranties, operating reports, permits, licenses, files, drawings, plans and specifications relating to the Property and other materials related to the ownership or operation of the Property;

11.1.5         A certificate substantially in the form of Exhibit F attached hereto certifying that Seller is not a "foreign person" as defined in Section 1445 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended;

11.1.6         A New York City Real Property Transfer Tax Return and New York State Combined Real Estate Transfer Tax Return and Credit Line Mortgage Certificate (Form TP-584) (together, the " Transfer Tax Returns " ), each duly signed by Seller, together with the payment of the amount of the Transfer Taxes, if any, due in connection with the transactions contemplated hereunder (including the Deed and the ZLDA), in each case by delivery to Purchaser's Title Company of a certified check payable to the order of the Commissioner of Finance in the amount of the Transfer Tax due to New York City and a certified check payable to the order of the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance in the amount of the Transfer Tax due to New York State (unless Seller elects to have Purchaser make such payments with a credit against the Purchase Price, in which case such payments shall be so made by Purchaser);

11.1.7          (a) Evidence reasonably satisfactory to Purchaser and Purchaser's Title Company that the person executing the Closing documents on behalf of Seller has full right, power and authority to do so, and (b) an Owner's Affidavit in the form of Exhibit C attached hereto (with such changes as necessary for the Title Company to omit any title objections which Seller is obligated or elects to discharge and/or satisfy hereunder);

11.1.8         Instruments reasonably acceptable to Purchaser in order to terminate the documents of record identified as (i) Covenants and Restrictions in liber 4871 page 1 and (ii) Light and Air Easement in liber 6869 page 92;

11.1.9          A Declaration of Zoning Lot Restrictions, which shall be in the form annexed hereto as Exhibit N , as it may be amended (without other substantive change) at the Closing to provide for the inclusion or subtraction of Additional Parcels to the Combined Zoning Lot (the " Declaration " );

11.1.10        A zoning lot and development agreement, in the form attached hereto as Exhibit H (the " ZLDA " ), which shall be recorded in the applicable New York City land records immediately after the recordation of the Deed and prior to the recordation of any mortgage obtained by Purchaser;

11.1.11        Any Waiver and Subordination(s) required to be delivered by Seller;

11.1.12        A lease, executed by Tenant, in the form attached hereto as Exhibit I   (the " Lease " ), together with the payment of any security deposit required thereunder; and

11.1.13        Such other documents as may be reasonably necessary or appropriate to effect the consummation of the transactions which are the subject of this Agreement.
 
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11.2         Intentionally Omitted .

11.3          Purchaser's Closing Obligations . Purchaser, at its sole cost and expense, shall deliver or cause to be delivered to Seller at Closing the following:

11.3.1         The Balance of the Purchase Price, after all adjustments are made at the Closing as herein provided, by Federal Reserve wire transfer of immediately available funds;

11.3.2          Purchaser shall duly execute, acknowledge (as appropriate) and deliver to Seller at Closing:

(a)            the Declaration;

(b)            the ZLDA;

(c)            any Waiver and Subordination(s) required to be delivered by Purchaser;

(d)            the Lease; and

(e)            the Transfer Tax Returns.

11.3.3         Evidence reasonably satisfactory to Seller's and Purchaser's Title Company that the person executing the Closing documents on behalf of Purchaser has full right, power and authority to do so;

11.3.4          A certificate in the form of Exhibit J attached hereto ( " Purchaser's Representation Certificate " ), indicating that the representations and warranties of Purchaser set forth in Article VIII are true and correct on the Closing Date, or, if there have been changes, describing such changes; and

11.3.5         Such other documents as may be reasonably necessary or appropriate to effect the consummation of the transactions which are the subject of this Agreement.

ARTICLE XII

RISK OF LOSS

12.1          Casualty If all or any part of the Property is damaged by fire or other casualty occurring following the date hereof and prior to the Closing, whether or not such damage affects a material part of the Property, then neither party shall have the right to terminate this Agreement, and the parties shall nonetheless consummate this transaction in accordance with this Agreement, without any abatement of the Purchase Price or any liability or obligation on the part of Seller by reason of said destruction or damage. In such event, Seller shall be entitled to retain all casualty insurance proceeds received under the casualty insurance policies in effect with respect to the Property on account of said physical damage or destruction.
 
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12.2         Condemnation .

12.2.1          If, prior to the Closing Date, any part of the Property is taken (other than a temporary taking), or if Seller shall receive an official notice from any governmental authority having eminent domain power over the Property of its intention to take, by eminent domain proceeding, any part of the Property (a " Taking " ), then:

(a)            if such Taking results in a decrease of 10% or less of the floor area development rights currently existing with respect to the Property, as determined by an independent architect chosen by Seller (subject to Purchaser's review and reasonable approval of such determination and the provisions of Section 12.2.2 below), then neither party shall have any right to terminate this Agreement, and the parties shall nonetheless consummate the transaction in accordance with this Agreement, without any abatement of the Purchase Price or any liability or obligation on the part of Seller by reason of such Taking; provided , however , that Seller shall, on the Closing Date, (i) assign and remit to Purchaser, and Purchaser shall be entitled to receive and keep, the net proceeds of any award or other proceeds of such Taking which may have been collected by Seller as a result of such Taking less the reasonable out of pocket expenses incurred by Seller in connection with such Taking, or (ii) if no award or other proceeds shall have been collected, deliver to Purchaser, an assignment of Seller's right to any such award or other proceeds which may be payable to Seller as a result of such Taking, and Purchaser shall reimburse Seller for the reasonable out of pocket expenses incurred by Seller in connection with such Taking at the time of Purchaser's receipt of any such award or other proceeds.

(b)            if such Taking results in a decrease of more than 10% of the floor area development rights currently existing with respect to the Property, as determined by an independent architect chosen by Seller (subject to Purchaser's review and reasonable approval of such determination and the provisions of Section 12.2.2 below), then Purchaser shall have the option, exercisable within thirty (30) days after receipt of notice of such Taking (but in any event prior to the Closing Date), time being of the essence, to terminate this Agreement by delivering notice thereof to Seller, whereupon the Deposit and Interest shall be returned to Purchaser, and this Agreement shall be deemed canceled and of no further force or effect, and neither party shall have any further rights or liabilities against or to the other except pursuant to the provisions of this Agreement which are expressly provided to survive the termination hereof. If a Taking described in this clause (b) shall occur and Purchaser shall not have timely elected to terminate this Agreement, then Purchaser and Seller shall consummate this transaction in accordance with this Agreement, without any abatement of the Purchase Price or any liability or obligation on the part of Seller by reason of such Taking; provided , however , that Seller shall, on the Closing Date, (i) assign and remit to Purchaser, and Purchaser shall be entitled to receive and keep, the net proceeds of any award or other proceeds of such Taking which may have been collected by Seller as a result of such Taking less the reasonable out of pocket expenses incurred by Seller in connection with such Taking, or (ii) if no award or other proceeds shall have been collected, deliver to Purchaser, an assignment of Seller's right to any such award or other proceeds which may be payable to Seller as a result of such Taking, and Purchaser shall reimburse Seller for the reasonable out of pocket expenses incurred by Seller in connection with such Taking at the time of Purchaser's receipt of any such award or other proceeds. Seller shall not compromise or settle any claim without Purchaser's prior written consent (which shall not be unreasonably withheld).
 
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12.2.2          Any disputes under this Article XII as to whether the Taking results in a decrease of 10% or less of the floor area development rights currently existing with respect to the Property shall be resolved by expedited arbitration before a single arbitrator acceptable to both Seller and Purchaser in their reasonable judgment in accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association; provided , that if Seller and Purchaser fail to agree on an arbitrator within five (5) days after a dispute arises, then either party may request The Real Estate Board of New York, Inc. to designate an arbitrator. Such arbitrator shall be an independent architect or appraiser (as applicable) having at least ten (10) years of experience in the construction of, or valuation of, office buildings in Brooklyn. The costs and expenses of such arbitrator shall be borne equally by Seller and Purchaser.
 
12.3          General Obligations Law . The provisions of this Article XIII are intended to supersede those of Section 5-1311 of the General Obligations Law of New York.

ARTICLE XIII

DEFAULT

13.1         Default by Seller .

13.1.1         If Seller shall default in the performance of any of its obligations to be performed by Seller on or prior to the Scheduled Closing Date in any material respect, Purchaser may elect, as the sole and exclusive remedy of Purchaser, to (i) terminate this Agreement and receive the Deposit and Interest accrued thereon from the Escrow Agent in accordance with the terms and provisions of Section 3.2 hereof, and in such event, Seller shall not have any liability whatsoever to Purchaser hereunder other than with respect to the Surviving Termination Obligations or (ii) enforce specific performance of Seller's obligations under this Agreement, provided that any action for specific performance shall be commenced within one hundred twenty (120) days after the Scheduled Closing Date. Notwithstanding the foregoing, from and after the Closing, nothing contained in this Section 13.1 shall limit Purchaser's remedies at law or in equity as to the Surviving Termination Obligations.

13.1.2          Notwithstanding the foregoing, if this Agreement shall be terminated by Purchaser under this Section 13.1 as a result of Seller's willful default, Seller shall reimburse Purchaser for all of its reasonable out-of-pocket legal and diligence costs and expenses incurred in connection with this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby, provided that in no event shall Seller's reimbursement obligation exceed $25,000.00.

13.2          Default by Purchaser . If Purchaser shall default in the payment of the Purchase Price or in the performance of its obligations to be performed on the Scheduled Closing Date in any material respect, Purchaser and Seller agree it would be impractical and extremely difficult to fix the damages which Seller may suffer. Therefore, Purchaser and Seller hereby agree a reasonable estimate of the total net detriment Seller would suffer in the event Purchaser defaults and fails to complete the purchase of the Property is and shall be, as Seller's sole and exclusive remedy (whether at law or in equity), a sum equal to the Deposit and Interest. Upon such default by Purchaser and failure to close as required hereunder, Seller shall have the right to receive the Deposit and Interest from the Escrow Agent, in accordance with the terms and provisions of Section 3.2 hereof, as its sole and exclusive remedy, and thereupon, this Agreement shall terminate, and neither Seller nor Purchaser shall have any further rights or obligations hereunder except with respect to the Surviving Termination Obligations. THE AMOUNT OF THE DEPOSIT AND INTEREST SHALL BE THE FULL, AGREED AND LIQUIDATED DAMAGES FOR PURCHASER'S DEFAULT AND FAILURE TO COMPLETE THE PURCHASE OF THE PROPERTY, ALL OTHER CLAIMS TO DAMAGES OR OTHER REMEDIES BEING HEREBY EXPRESSLY WAIVED BY SELLER.
29

ARTICLE XIV

BROKERS

14.1   Brokerage Indemnity .

14.1.1          Seller and Purchaser each represents and warrants to the other that it has not dealt or negotiated with any broker in connection with the sale of the Property as provided by this Agreement other than Cushman and Wakefield Realty of Manhattan, LLC (the " Broker " ).

14.1.2          Purchaser shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless Seller, its affiliates, and its and their partners, members, trustees, advisors, officers, and directors, against all losses, damages, costs, expenses (including reasonable fees and expenses of attorneys), causes of action, suits or judgments of any nature arising out of any claim, demand or liability to or asserted by any broker, agent or finder, licensed or otherwise, claiming to have dealt with Purchaser in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement other than the Broker.

14.1.3          Seller shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless Purchaser and its affiliates, and its and their partners, members, trustees, advisors, officers and directors, against all losses, damages, costs, expenses (including reasonable fees and expenses of attorneys), causes of action, suits or judgments of any nature arising out of any claim, demand or liability to or asserted (i) by the Broker in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement and (ii) by any broker, agent or finder, licensed or otherwise, claiming to have dealt with Seller in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement other than the Broker.

14.1.4          Seller shall pay the Broker in connection with the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement pursuant to a separate agreement between Seller and Broker. The provisions of this Article XV shall survive the Closing and/or termination of this Agreement.

ARTICLE XV

PUBLICATION AND CONFIDENTIALITY

15.1          Publication . Purchaser and Seller acknowledge that upon execution of this Agreement and at Closing, the parties shall issue a press release in form and substance reasonably agreed to by the parties hereto; provided nothing herein shall restrict either party from issuing a press release to the extent required by law or requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission. In addition, Purchaser and Seller shall consult with each other prior to making any public statements with respect to this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby, and except as otherwise may be required by law or regulation, or as Seller has customarily disclosed to its shareholders, or as otherwise set forth in this Section 15.1 , Purchaser and Seller shall not make any public statements, including, without limitation, any press releases, with respect to this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby, without the prior written consent of the other party, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed.
 
30

15.2          Confidentiality . Purchaser shall not disclose the terms of this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby or any non-public information received in connection therewith to any third party, except, Purchaser's lawyers, investors, consultants, accountants, mortgage brokers, and lenders, all actual or prospective, and affiliates who are instructed to keep such information confidential in accordance with the terms hereof who need to know such terms or are otherwise compelled by law or judicial mandate.

ARTICLE XVI

RESERVED

ARTICLE XVII

MISCELLANEOUS

17.1          Notices Any and all notices, requests, demands or other communications hereunder shall be given in writing and by hand delivery, by electronic delivery (portable document format) (with confirmation of electronic mail by electronic receipt or reply email), by overnight courier, or by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, first class postage prepaid addressed as follows (or to such new address as the addressee of such a communication may have notified the sender thereof):

 
To Seller:
     
   
The Dime Savings Bank of Williamsburgh
    209 Havemeyer Street
   
Brooklyn, New York 11211
   
Attention: Michael Pucella
   
Email: mpucella@dime.com
     
 
With a copy to:
     
   
Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP
    Four Times Square
   
New York, New York 10036
   
Attention: Marco P. Caffuzzi, Esq.
   
Email: marco.caffuzzi@skadden.com
 
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To Purchaser:
     
   
Tavros Capital Partners USA LLC
   
27 W 24th St., Suite 702
   
New York, NY 10010
   
Attention: Nicholas Silver
   
Email: nsilvers@tavroscapital.com
     
 
With a copy to:
     
   
Szenberg & Okun PLLC
   
152 West 57th Street, 22nd Fl
    New York, NY 10019
   
Attention: Jacob Okun, Esq.
   
Email: jacob.okun@szenok.com
     
 
To Escrow Agent:
     
   
Title Associates, a division of Stewart Title Insurance Company
    825 Third Avenue, 30th Floor
   
New York, NY 10022
   
Attn: Jack Foley
   
Email: jfoley@titleassociates.com

Purchaser's counsel may give any notices or other communications hereunder on behalf of Purchaser, and Seller's counsel may give any notices or other communications hereunder on behalf of Seller, and each notice so given shall have the same force and effect as if sent by such party. Any notice hereunder shall be deemed given on the date of receipt by the addressee or the date receipt would have been effectuated if delivery were not refused. The inability to deliver a notice because of a changed address of which proper notice was not given shall be deemed a refusal of such notice.

17.2         Governing Law; Venue .

17.2.1     This Agreement was negotiated in the State of New York and was executed and delivered by Seller and Purchaser in the State of New York, which State the parties agree has a substantial relationship to the parties and to the underlying transactions embodied hereby, and in all respects, including, without limiting the generality of the foregoing, matters of construction, validity, enforcement and performance, this Agreement and the obligations arising hereunder shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York applicable to contracts made and performed wholly within such State, without giving effect to the principles of conflicts of law of such jurisdiction. To the fullest extent permitted by law, the parties hereby unconditionally and irrevocably waive and release any claim that the law of any other jurisdiction governs this Agreement, and this Agreement shall be governed and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York as aforesaid pursuant to Section 5-1401 of the New York General Obligations Law.

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17.2.2       To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, any legal suit, action or proceeding against any of the parties hereto arising out of or relating to this Agreement shall be instituted in any federal or state court in New York, New York, pursuant to Section 5- 1402 of the New York General Obligations Law, and each party hereby irrevocably submits to the exclusive jurisdiction of any such court in any such suit, action or proceeding. Each party hereby agrees to venue in such courts and hereby waives, to the fullest extent permitted by law, any claim that any such action or proceeding was brought in an inconvenient forum.

17.3         Headings . The captions and headings herein are for convenience and reference only and in no way define or limit the scope or content of this Agreement or in any way affect its provisions.

17.4          Business Days . If any date herein set forth for the performance of any obligations of Seller or Purchaser or for the delivery of any instrument or notice as herein provided should be on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday, the compliance with such obligations or delivery shall be deemed acceptable on the next Business Day following such Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday. As used herein, (i) the term " legal holiday " means any state or Federal holiday for which financial institutions or post offices are generally closed in the State of New York and (ii) the term " Business Day " means any weekday of Monday through Friday which is not a legal holiday.

17.5         Counterpart Copies . This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterpart copies, all of which counterparts shall have the same force and effect as if all parties hereto had executed a single copy of this Agreement.

17.6        Binding Effect . This Agreement shall not become a binding obligation upon Seller or Purchaser unless and until the same has been fully executed by both Purchaser and Seller and a fully executed counterpart has been delivered by Seller to Purchaser

17.7          Successors and Assigns This Agreement shall be binding upon, and inure to the benefit of, the parties hereto and their respective successors and permitted assigns.

17.8          Assignment This Agreement may not be assigned by Purchaser and any assignment or attempted assignment by Purchaser shall constitute a default hereunder and shall be deemed null and void and of no force or effect. A transfer of the controlling direct or indirect ownership interests of Purchaser shall constitute an assignment of this Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Agreement may be assigned by Purchaser without Seller's consent to any entity (i) in which Purchaser, Arel Capital or any of their principals own an economic interest and (ii) which is controlled by Purchaser, Arel Capital or any of their principals. A copy of any assignment of this Agreement permitted hereunder, together with an agreement of the assignee assuming all of the terms and conditions of this Agreement to be performed by Purchaser in form reasonably satisfactory to counsel for Seller, shall be delivered to the attorneys for Seller prior to the Closing, and in any event no such assignment shall relieve Purchaser from its obligations under this Agreement nor result in a delay in the Closing. In the event Purchaser assigns this Agreement as permitted hereunder, all representations and warranties and covenants and obligations of Purchaser hereunder shall apply with equal force to such assignee. For purposes of this Section 17.8 , the term " control " (including, with correlative meanings, the terms "controlled by" and "under common control with") means the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of such entity, whether through ownership of voting stock, by contract or otherwise.
 
33

17.9          Interpretation This Agreement shall not be construed more strictly against one party than against the other merely by virtue of the fact that it may have been prepared by counsel for one of the parties, it being recognized that both Seller and Purchaser have contributed substantially and materially to the preparation of this Agreement.

17.10       Entire Agreement This Agreement and the Exhibits and Schedules attached hereto contain the final and entire agreement between the parties hereto with respect to the sale and purchase of the Property and are intended to be an integration of all prior negotiations and understandings. Purchaser, Seller and their respective agents shall not be bound by any terms, conditions, statements, warranties or representations, oral or written, not contained herein. No change or modifications to this Agreement shall be valid unless the same is in writing and signed by the parties hereto. Each party reserves the right to waive any of the terms or conditions of this Agreement which are for their respective benefit and to consummate the transactions contemplated by this Agreement in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement which have not been so waived. Any such waiver must be in writing and signed by the party benefited by the applicable provision.

17.11      Severability If any one or more of the provisions hereof shall for any reason be held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect, such invalidity, illegality or unenforceability shall not affect any other provision hereof, and this Agreement shall be construed as if such invalid, illegal or unenforceable provision had never been contained herein, unless and to the extent that the invalidation of any such term or provision materially alters the intent of the parties hereto.

17.12      Survival . Except for those provisions of this Agreement which expressly provide that any obligation, representation, warranty or covenant contained therein shall survive the Closing or the termination of this Agreement (collectively, the " Surviving Termination Obligations " ), the provisions of this Agreement and the representations and warranties herein shall not survive after the conveyance of title and payment of the Balance of the Purchase Price.

17.13      Exhibits Each of the Exhibits and Schedules attached hereto are incorporated herein by reference.

17.14      Limitation of Liability . The obligations of Seller and Purchaser are intended to be binding only on Seller and Purchaser and each of such party's assets (including, with respect to Purchaser, the Deposit), and shall not be personally binding upon, nor shall any resort be had to, any of the members, partners, officers, directors, shareholders, advisors, trustees, agents, or employees of Seller or Purchaser, or any of their respective affiliates or any of their respective properties.

17.15      Prevailing Party Should either party employ an attorney to enforce any of the provisions hereof (whether before or after Closing, and including any claims or actions involving amounts held in escrow and any claims for a breach of representation), the nonprevailing party in any final judgment agrees to pay the other party's reasonable attorneys' fees and expenses in or out of litigation and, if in litigation, trial, appellate, bankruptcy or other proceedings, such fees and expenses expended or incurred in connection therewith, as determined by a court of competent jurisdiction. The provisions of this Section 17.15 shall survive Closing and/or any termination of this Agreement.
 
34

17.16      Real Estate Reporting Person . Escrow Agent is hereby designated the "real estate reporting person" for purposes of Section 6045 of the Code and Treasury Regulation 1.6045-4 and any instructions or settlement statement prepared by Escrow Agent shall so provide. Upon the consummation of the transaction contemplated by this Agreement, Escrow Agent shall file a Form 1099 information return and send the statement to Seller as required under the aforementioned statute and regulation. Seller and Purchaser shall reasonably cooperate with Escrow Agent in connection with Escrow Agent's duties as real estate reporting person.

17.17      No Recording . Except in connection with an action for specific performance, neither this Agreement nor any memorandum or short form hereof shall be recorded or filed in any public land or other public records of any jurisdiction, by either party and any attempt to do so may be treated by the other party as a breach of this Agreement.

17.18      No Other Parties . This Agreement is not intended, nor shall it be construed, to confer upon any person or entity, except the parties hereto and their respective heirs, successors and permitted assigns, any rights or remedies under or by reason of this Agreement.

17.19       Waiver of Trial by Jury The respective parties hereto shall and hereby do waive trial by jury in any action, proceeding or counterclaim brought by either of the parties hereto against the other on any matters whatsoever arising out of or in any way connected with this Agreement, or for the enforcement of any remedy under any statute, emergency or otherwise.

17.20      Cooperation .    (a)  Seller shall have the right to structure the sale of the Property as a forward or reverse exchange thereof for other real property of a like-kind to be designated by Seller (including the ability to assign this Agreement to an entity established in order to effectuate such exchange), with the result that the exchange shall qualify for non-recognition of gain or loss under Section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, in which case Purchaser shall execute any and all documents reasonably necessary to effect such exchange, as reasonably approved by Purchaser's counsel, and otherwise assist and cooperate with Seller in effecting such exchange; provided that: (i) any costs and expenses incurred by Purchaser as a result of structuring such transaction as an exchange, as opposed to an outright sale, shall be borne by Seller; (ii) Seller shall indemnify and hold harmless Purchaser from and against any and all liabilities, costs, damages, claims or demands arising from the cooperation of Purchaser in effecting the exchange contemplated hereby; and (iii) such exchange shall not result in any delay in closing the transaction without Purchaser's prior written consent. Seller, in its discretion, may adjourn the Closing Date for up to thirty (30) days in the aggregate, in order to effect such exchange.
 
35

(b)           Purchaser shall have the right to structure the sale of the Property as a forward or reverse exchange thereof for other real property of a like-kind to be designated by Purchaser (including the ability to assign this Agreement to an entity established in order to effectuate such exchange), with the result that the exchange shall qualify for non-recognition of gain or loss under Section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, in which case Seller shall execute any and all documents reasonably necessary to effect such exchange, as reasonably approved by Seller's counsel, and otherwise assist and cooperate with Purchaser in effecting such exchange; provided that: (i) any costs and expenses incurred by Seller as a result of structuring such transaction as an exchange, as opposed to an outright sale, shall be borne by Purchaser; (ii) Purchaser shall indemnify and hold harmless Seller from and against any and all liabilities, costs, damages, claims or demands arising from the cooperation of Seller in effecting the exchange contemplated hereby; and (iii) such exchange shall not result in any delay in closing the transaction without Seller's prior written consent.

[SIGNATURE PAGE TO FOLLOW]
 
36

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement on the date first written above.

 
SELLER:
     
 
THE DIME SAVINGS BANK OF WILLIAMSBURGH
     
 
By:
/s/ Michael P. Devine
   
Name: Michael P. Devine
   
Title: Vice Chairman & President
 
Signature Page – Purchase and Sale Agreement
 

 
PURCHASER:
     
 
TAVROS CAPITAL PARTNERS USA LLC
     
 
By:
/s/ Nicholas Silvers
 
Name: 
Nicholas Silvers
 
Title:
Authorized Signatory
 
Signature Page – Purchase and Sale Agreement
 

The Escrow Agent hereby executes this Agreement for the sole purpose of acknowledging receipt of the Deposit and its responsibilities hereunder and to evidence its consent to serve as Escrow Agent in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.

 
ESCROW AGENT:
     
 
STEWART TITLE INSURANCE COMPANY
     
 
By:
/s/ Kristin V. Bellouny
 
Name: 
Kristin V. Bellouny
 
Title:
VP & Senior Underwriting Counsel
 
Signature Page – Purchase and Sale Agreement
 
 


Exhibit 10.46
PURCHASE AND SALE AGREEMENT
 
Between
 
THE DIME SAVINGS BANK OF WILLIAMSBURGH,
as Seller,
 
and
 
HAVEMEYER OWNER BB LLC,
as Purchaser
 
Dated: April 14, 2016
 

TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
    Page
 
ARTICLE I
     
SALE OF PROPERTY
1
   
1.1
Sale
1
1.2
Excluded Property
2
1.3
Reserved
2
1.4
Access to Property
2
ARTICLE II
PURCHASE PRICE
3
   
2.1
Purchase Price
3
ARTICLE III
DEPOSIT
4
   
3.1
Deposit
4
3.2
Application of Deposit
4
3.3
Escrow Agent
5
ARTICLE IV
CLOSING, PRORATIONS AND CLOSING COSTS
6
   
4.1
Closing
6
4.2
Prorations
7
4.3
Transfer Taxes
7
4.4
Sales Taxes
7
4.5
Closing Costs
8
ARTICLE V
TITLE AND SURVEY MATTERS
8
   
5.1
Title
8
5.2
Violations
12
 
i

ARTICLE VI
 
RESERVED
 
13
ARTICLE VII
     
“AS IS” SALE
14
     
ARTICLE VIII
 
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF PURCHASER
15
   
8.1
Authority
15
8.2
Bankruptcy or Debt of Purchaser
15
8.3
No Financing Contingency
15
8.4
Purchaser’s Acknowledgment
16
8.5
Patriot Act
16
     
ARTICLE IX 
 
SELLER’S INTERIM OPERATING COVENANTS
18
   
9.1
Operations
18
9.2
Maintain Insurance
18
9.3
Notices of Violation; Other Notices
18
9.4
Permits and Licenses
18
9.5
Casualty and Condemnation
18
9.6
Leases
18
9.7
Zoning
19
9.8
Subdivision
19
     
ARTICLE X
 
CLOSING CONDITIONS
19
   
10.1
Conditions to Obligations of Seller
19
10.2
Conditions to Obligations of Purchaser
20
     
ARTICLE XI
 
CLOSING
21
   
11.1
Seller’s Closing Obligations
21
11.2
Intentionally Omitted
22
11.3
Purchaser’s Closing Obligations
22
 
ii

ARTICLE XII
 
RISK OF LOSS
23
     
12.1
Casualty
23
12.2
Condemnation
23
12.3
General Obligations Law
24
     
ARTICLE XIII
     
DEFAULT
24
     
13.1
Default by Seller
24
13.2
Default by Purchaser
25
     
ARTICLE XIV
     
BROKERS
25
     
14.1
Brokerage Indemnity
25
     
ARTICLE XV
     
PUBLICATION AND CONFIDENTIALITY
26
     
15.1
Publication
26
15.2
Confidentiality
26
     
ARTICLE XVI
     
RESERVED
26
     
ARTICLE XVII
     
MISCELLANEOUS
26
     
17.1
Notices
26
17.2
Governing Law; Venue
28
17.3
Headings
28
17.4
Business Days
28
17.5
Counterpart Copies
28
17.6
Binding Effect
28
17.7
Successors and Assigns
28
17.8
Assignment
29
17.9
Interpretation
29
17.10
Entire Agreement
29
17.11
Severability
29
17.12
Survival
29
 
iii

17.13  
Exhibits
30
17.14
Limitation of Liability
30
17.15
Prevailing Party
30
17.16  
Real Estate Reporting Person
30
17.17  
No Recording
30
17.18  
No Other Parties
30
17.19
Waiver of Trial by Jury
30
17.20  
Cooperation
31
 
iv

LIST OF EXHIBITS AND SCHEDULES
 
Exhibits :

Exhibit A
Land
Exhibit B
Wire Instructions
Exhibit C
Form of Owner’s Affidavit
Exhibit D-1
Form of Deed
Exhibit D-2
Form of General Assignment
Exhibit E
Reserved
Exhibit F
Form of FIRPTA Certificate
Exhibit G
Reserved
Exhibit H
Reserved
Exhibit I
Form of Lease
Exhibit J
Form of Stipulation
Exhibit K
Form of Purchaser’s Representation Certificate
Exhibit L
Form of Declaration of Restrictions
 
Schedules :
 
Schedule 5.1.3
Permitted Exceptions
Schedule 6.1.3
Existing Contracts
Schedule 9.2
Description of Insurance Policies
 
v

PURCHASE AND SALE AGREEMENT
 
THIS PURCHASE AND SALE AGREEMENT (this “ Agreement ”) is made and entered into as of the 14th day of April, 2016 by and between THE DIME SAVINGS BANK OF WILLIAMSBURGH, a New York State chartered Savings Bank (“ Seller ”), and HAVEMEYER OWNER BB LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“ Purchaser ”).
 
WITNESSETH:
 
WHEREAS , Seller is the fee simple owner of that certain parcel of real property lying and being situated in the Borough of Brooklyn, City of New York, County of Kings, State of New York, at Block 2447, Lot 36, and commonly known as 209 Havemeyer Street, Brooklyn, New York, as further described in Exhibit A attached hereto (the “ Land ”);
 
WHEREAS , upon the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement, Seller desires to sell, and Purchaser desires to acquire, the Land, all Improvements (as hereinafter defined) therein, the Real Property (as hereinafter defined), the Intangible Property (as hereinafter defined) and all liabilities, obligations and undertakings arising in connection therewith from and after the Closing (as hereinafter defined), except to the extent otherwise provided in the Lease and the Stipulation (as hereinafter defined), subject in all respects to such matters as are described or provided for herein.
 
NOW, THEREFORE , in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements set forth herein and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, and intending to be legally bound, the parties hereto hereby agree as follows:
 
ARTICLE I
 
SALE OF PROPERTY
 
1.1            Sale . Subject to and in accordance with the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement, Seller hereby agrees to sell, assign and convey to Purchaser, and Purchaser agrees to purchase, acquire and accept from Seller, all of Seller’s right, title and interest in and to the following (collectively, the “ Property ”):
 
1.1.1            The Land and buildings, structures, fixtures and improvements thereon (collectively, the “ Improvements ”);
 
1.1.2           The land lying in the bed of any street, highway, road or avenue, opened or proposed, public or private in front of or adjoining the Land or any portion thereof, to the center line thereof, and any strips and gores adjacent to the Land or any portion thereof, and all right, title and interest of Seller in and to any award made or to be made in lieu of the foregoing or any portion thereof and, subject to the terms hereof, in and to any unpaid award for damage to the Land and Improvements or any portion thereof by reason of any change of grade of any street or any closing of any street, road or avenue;
 

1.1.3           The rights, privileges, grants and easements appurtenant to the Land, if any, including, without limitation, all development rights, air rights, and all of Seller’s right, title and interest, if any, in and to all easements, licenses, covenants and other rights-of-way or other appurtenances used in connection with the beneficial use and enjoyment of the Land (the Land, Improvements and property described in Section 1.1.2 and Section 1.1.3 , collectively, the “ Real Property ”); and
 
1.1.4           All (i) guarantees, licenses, approvals, certificates, permits, consents, authorizations, variances and warranties and other intangible property relating to the Real Property and (ii) all plans, drawings, specifications, surveys and other technical descriptions relating to the Real Property to the extent in Seller’s possession or control (collectively, the “ Intangible Property ”).
 
1.2           Excluded Property .
 
1.2.1           Any service contracts, utility agreements, maintenance agreements and other similar contracts or agreements, and any union or other collective bargaining contracts (a) currently in effect with respect to the Property (collectively, the “ Existing Contracts ”) or (b) entered into after the date hereof in accordance with the terms of this Agreement (collectively, the “ New Contracts ”; the Existing Contracts and New Contracts are referred to herein as, collectively, the “ Contracts ”), if any;
 
1.2.2            Except as expressly set forth in this Agreement, all rights and interests and obligations of Seller as owner of the Property arising prior to the Closing (including, without limitation, tax refunds, casualty and condemnation proceeds, tenant security deposits applied in accordance with the terms of this Agreement, utility deposits and rental arrearages) and attributable to periods prior to the Closing;
 
1.2.3           Except as expressly set forth in this Agreement, any cause of action or claim of, or against, Seller existing as of Closing; and
 
1.2.4           All fixtures, machinery, equipment and personal property that Seller is permitted to remove from the Demised Premises (as such term is defined in the Lease) pursuant to the terms of the Stipulation.
 
1.3           Reserved .
 
1.4             Access to Property . Purchaser or any other party designated by Purchaser, and their respective agents, shall have the right to enter the Property at all reasonable times, upon reasonable prior notice (which notice may be oral), to (i) examine the Property, (ii) show it to prospective mortgagees, lessees and their respective agents and representatives or others provided that Seller shall have the right to accompany Purchaser and any such interested party at all times while the same are in the Property, and (iii) to conduct visual but non-invasive inspections and testing with respect to the Property (including, without limitation, an architectural survey and an asbestos (ACP5/7) survey, but excluding any Phase II testing, soil or ground borings, engineering testing or testing for environmental conditions such as asbestos, radon or other hazardous substances or similar invasive testing); provided , however , that the same (a) shall be scheduled reasonably in advance with Seller, (b) shall not unreasonably interfere with the conduct of Seller’s business operations, (c) shall be conditioned on Purchaser procuring and maintaining liability insurance, in the form and in the amount customarily carried in connection with the performance of such activities and reasonably satisfactory to Seller, (d) shall not occur in any Secure Areas (as defined below), (e) if requested by Seller, shall occur during non-business hours or weekends, and (f) if requested by Seller, shall be performed pursuant to an access agreement in substantially the same form as the access agreement entered into by Seller and Purchaser’s affiliate pursuant to the Other PSA, including with indemnifications provided by Purchaser, Tavros Capital Partners and Charney Construction. It is acknowledged that Seller may, from time to time, have certain security or confidentiality requirements such that portions of the Property shall be locked and inaccessible to all persons unless specifically authorized by Seller (any such areas, the “ Secure Areas ”). Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, it is agreed that Purchaser’s right of access to any Secure Areas shall be permitted in the sole and absolute discretion of Seller.
 
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ARTICLE II
 
PURCHASE PRICE
 
2.1            Purchase Price . The purchase price for the Property shall be Twelve Million Three Hundred Thousand Dollars ($12,300,000.00) (the “ Purchase Price ”). No portion of the Purchase Price is attributable to any personal property included in the transactions. The Purchase Price, net of all prorations and adjustments as provided for herein, shall be paid by Purchaser as follows:
 
2.1.1            Eight Hundred Thousand Dollars ($800,000.00) of the Purchase Price (the “ Initial Deposit ”) shall be deposited with Stewart Title Insurance Company, as escrow agent (the “ Escrow Agent ”), by wire transfer of immediately available federal funds pursuant to the wire transfer instructions set forth on Exhibit B attached hereto, simultaneously with the execution and delivery of this Agreement by Purchaser;
 
2.1.2           Four Hundred and Thirty Thousand Dollars ($430,000.00) of the Purchase Price (the “ Additional Deposit ” and together with the Initial Deposit, the “ Deposit ”) shall be deposited with the Escrow Agent, by wire transfer of immediately available federal funds pursuant to the wire transfer instructions set forth on Exhibit B attached hereto, on or before the date which is one hundred and eighty (180) days after the date hereof, TIME BEING OF THE ESSENCE with respect to Purchaser’s obligation to fund the Additional Deposit; and
 
2.1.3           The difference between the Purchase Price and the Deposit          (the “ Balance of the Purchase Price ”), subject to such apportionments and adjustments as are provided herein, shall be paid on the Closing Date (as hereinafter defined) by wire transfer of immediately available federal funds to, or as directed by, Seller simultaneously with the delivery of the Deed (as hereinafter defined).
 
The Deposit shall be held in escrow and shall be payable in accordance with Article III hereof.
 
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ARTICLE III

DEPOSIT

3.1             Deposit .  Concurrently with the execution of this Agreement, and as a condition precedent to the effectiveness of this Agreement, Purchaser shall deposit with the Escrow Agent the Deposit, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged by Escrow Agent’s execution hereof. The Deposit and Interest (as hereinafter defined) accrued thereon shall be held in escrow, and not in trust, by the Escrow Agent at a banking institution approved by Seller.

3.2           Application of Deposit .

3.2.1            If the Closing occurs, then the Deposit shall be paid to Seller and applied against the Purchase Price and the accrued interest on the Deposit ( Interes t ), if any, shall, at Purchaser’s election, (i) be paid to Seller and credited against the Balance of the Purchase Price or (ii) be paid to Purchaser.

3.2.2            In the event that the Closing does not occur because of a default by Purchaser under this Agreement and Seller elects to terminate this Agreement as a result thereof, the Deposit and all Interest shall be paid to and retained by Seller pursuant to Section 13.2  hereof.

3.2.3            In the event that the Closing does not occur because of a default by Seller under this Agreement, or in the event that any of the closing conditions set forth in this Agreement are not satisfied, and Purchaser elects to terminate this Agreement as a result thereof, the Deposit and all Interest shall be paid to and retained by Purchaser pursuant to Section 13.1  hereof.

3.2.4            The party receiving the Interest shall pay any income taxes thereon. Seller and Purchaser shall each provide the other with its respective tax identification number promptly after the date of this Agreement.

3.2.5            If either party makes a demand upon the Escrow Agent for delivery of the Deposit and Interest, the Escrow Agent shall promptly give notice to the other party of such demand.  If a notice of objection to the proposed payment is not received by the Escrow Agent from the other party within ten (10) calendar days of its receipt of notice from the Escrow Agent, the Escrow Agent is hereby authorized to deliver the Deposit and all Interest to the party that made the demand. If the Escrow Agent receives a notice of objection within said ten (10) calendar day period, then the Escrow Agent shall have the right, at its option, to either (A) continue to hold the Deposit and Interest and thereafter pay it to the party entitled thereto when the Escrow Agent (i) receives a written notice from the objecting party withdrawing the objection, (ii) receives a written notice signed by both parties directing disposition of the Deposit and Interest or (iii) receives a final judgment or order of a court of competent jurisdiction or (B) deposit the same with a court of competent jurisdiction in the State of New York, and Escrow Agent shall rely upon the decision of such court or a written statement executed by both Seller and Purchaser setting forth how the Deposit and Interest should be released.
 
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3.3            Escrow Agent .  The parties further agree that:

3.3.1            The Escrow Agent is executing this Agreement to acknowledge the Escrow Agent’s responsibilities hereunder, which may be modified only by a written amendment signed by all of the parties hereto. Any amendment to this Agreement that is not signed by the Escrow Agent shall be effective as to the parties thereto, but shall not be binding on the Escrow Agent.  Escrow Agent shall accept the Deposit with the understanding of Seller and Purchaser that Escrow Agent is not a party to this Agreement except to the extent of its specific responsibilities hereunder, and does not assume or have any liability for the performance or non-performance of Purchaser or Seller hereunder to either of them.

3.3.2            The Escrow Agent shall be protected in relying upon the accuracy, acting in reliance upon the contents, and assuming the genuineness of any notice, demand, certificate, signature, instrument or other document which is given to the Escrow Agent without verifying the truth or accuracy of any such notice, demand, certificate, signature, instrument or other document;

3.3.3            The Escrow Agent shall not be bound in any way by any other agreement or understanding between Seller and Purchaser, whether or not the Escrow Agent has knowledge thereof or consents thereto unless such consent by Escrow Agent is given in writing.

3.3.4            The Escrow Agent’s sole duties and responsibilities shall be to hold and disburse the Deposit and Interest accrued thereon in accordance with this Agreement.

3.3.5            The Escrow Agent shall not be liable for any action taken or omitted by the Escrow Agent in good faith and believed by the Escrow Agent to be authorized or within its rights or powers conferred upon it by this Agreement, except for damage caused by the gross negligence, bad faith or willful misconduct of the Escrow Agent.

3.3.6            Upon the disbursement of the Deposit and Interest in accordance with this Agreement, the Escrow Agent shall be relieved and released from any liability under this Agreement.

3.3.7            The Escrow Agent may resign at any time upon at least ten (10) days prior written notice to Seller and Purchaser. If, prior to the effective date of such resignation, Seller and Purchaser shall each have approved, in writing, a successor escrow agent, then upon the resignation of the Escrow Agent, the Escrow Agent shall deliver the Deposit and Interest to such successor escrow agent. From and after such resignation and the delivery of the Deposit and Interest accrued thereon to such successor escrow agent, the Escrow Agent shall be fully relieved of all of its duties, responsibilities and obligations under this Agreement, all of which duties, responsibilities and obligations shall be performed by the appointed successor escrow agent. If for any reason, Seller and Purchaser shall not approve a successor escrow agent within such period, the Escrow Agent may bring any appropriate action or proceeding for leave to deposit the Deposit and Interest with a court of competent jurisdiction, pending the approval of a successor escrow agent, and upon such deposit the Escrow Agent shall be fully relieved of all of its duties, responsibilities and obligations under this Agreement.
 
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3.3.8            Seller and Purchaser hereby agree to, jointly and severally, indemnify, defend and hold the Escrow Agent harmless from and against any liabilities, damages, losses, costs or expenses incurred by, or claims or charges made against, the Escrow Agent (including reasonable attorneys’ fees, expenses and court costs) by reason of the Escrow Agent’s acting or failing to act in connection with any of the matters contemplated by this Agreement as escrow agent or in carrying out the terms of this Agreement as escrow agent, except as a result of the Escrow Agent’s gross negligence, bad faith or willful misconduct.

3.3.9            Subject to the provisions of Section 3.2.5 , in the event that a dispute arises in connection with this Agreement, or as to the rights of either Seller or Purchaser in and to, or the disposition of, the Deposit and Interest, the Escrow Agent shall have the right to (w) hold and retain the Deposit and Interest until such dispute is settled or finally determined by litigation, arbitration or otherwise, or (x) deposit the Deposit and Interest with an appropriate court of law, following which the Escrow Agent shall thereby and thereafter be relieved and released from any liability or obligation under this Agreement, or (y) institute an action in interpleader or other similar action permitted by stakeholders in the State of New York, or (z) interplead any of the parties hereto in any action or proceeding which may be brought to determine the rights of Seller and Purchaser to all or any part of the Deposit and Interest.
 
3.3.10        The Escrow Agent shall not have any liability or obligation for loss of all or any portion of the Deposit or Interest by reason of the insolvency or other action or omission of the institution of depository with whom the applicable escrow account is maintained.
 
3.3.11          Escrow Agent shall not be liable or responsible for any failure, refusal or inability of the depository into which the Deposit is deposited to pay the Deposit at Escrow Agent’s direction, or for levies by taxing authorities based upon the taxpayer identification number used to establish this interest bearing account. Escrow Agent shall not be responsible for any interest except for such interest as is actually received (which interest received shall be added to and considered part of the Deposit), nor shall Escrow Agent be responsible for the loss of any interest arising from the closing of any account or the sale of any certificate of deposit or other instrument prior to maturity.

ARTICLE IV

CLOSING, PRORATIONS AND CLOSING COSTS

4.1            Closing .

4.1.1            The closing of the purchase and sale of the Property (the Closing ) shall be held at the offices of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP, Four Times Square, New York, New York, 10036, at 2:00 p.m. local time, or, if Purchaser’s lender requests, at the offices of Purchaser’s lender or its counsel located in New York, New York, on the first Business Day occurring after the one (1) year anniversary of the date hereof, TIME BEING OF THE ESSENCE (such date, or the date to which such date is adjourned pursuant to the express written terms hereof, the Scheduled Closing Date ), subject to any adjournments as expressly permitted under this Agreement. For the avoidance of doubt, each of Seller and Purchaser acknowledges and agrees that TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE with respect to the performance by Purchaser and Seller of their respective obligations to close the transactions contemplated hereunder on the Scheduled Closing Date (as the same may be adjourned in accordance with the terms hereof).
 
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4.1.2            As used herein the term Closing Date shall mean the date on which the Closing actually occurs. In order to facilitate the timely and expeditious closing of title and the payment of the Purchase Price on the Closing Date, Seller and Purchaser shall conduct and complete a comprehensive pre-closing on the Business Day or Business Days (as may be necessary) prior to the Closing Date.

4.2             Prorations . Except as otherwise provided under this Agreement, in consideration of the Lease and the Stipulation to be entered into at Closing pursuant to the terms hereof by Seller (in such capacity, Tenant ), and Tenant’s obligations under the Lease and the Stipulation, there shall be no prorations, credits or adjustments hereunder of any items, including, without limitation, rents, additional rents, real estate taxes and assessments, personal property taxes, business improvement district assessments and charges, vault charges and special assessments, charges for telephone, electric, sewer, water, gas, steam and other utility bills, trash removal bills, janitorial and maintenance service bills, insurance premiums, fees and other amounts payable under the licenses and permits or any other operating or administrative expenses relating to the Property, it being the intention of the parties that all such charges remain the sole obligation and responsibility of Tenant after Closing pursuant to, and to the extent specifically provided in, the terms of the Lease and the Stipulation. Seller and Purchaser acknowledge that such prorations shall be made pursuant to Section 21.6 of the Lease upon the expiration or earlier termination thereof.

4.3           Transfer Taxes . Seller shall pay at Closing all transfer taxes imposed upon the conveyance of the Property hereunder pursuant to Section 1402 of the New York State Tax Law and Title 11 of Chapter 21 of the Administrative Code of the City of New York (the Transfer Taxes ) and agrees to indemnify and hold Purchaser harmless with respect to any loss, cost, cause of action or claim of any nature relating thereto.  Seller shall file or cause to be filed all necessary tax returns with respect to all such Transfer Taxes and, to the extent required by applicable law, Purchaser will join in the execution of any such tax returns. The provisions of this Section 4.3 shall survive the Closing.

4.4             Sales Taxes .  Although it is not anticipated that any sales tax shall be due and payable in connection with the transactions contemplated hereunder, Purchaser agrees that Purchaser shall pay any and all New York State and New York City sales and/or compensating use taxes imposed upon or due in connection with the transactions contemplated hereunder (but not any such taxes which are attributable to any period prior to the Closing Date, which shall be Seller’s obligation). Purchaser shall file all necessary tax returns with respect to all such taxes and Seller will cooperate with Purchaser’s efforts with respect to such sales and use taxes and related filings, including by filing such forms as requested by Purchaser and joining in the execution of any such tax returns.  There shall be no allocation of the Purchase Price to any personal property included in the transactions contemplated hereunder. The provisions of this Section 4.4 shall survive the Closing.
 
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4.5           Closing Costs .

4.5.1            Purchaser shall pay all recording fees and charges associated with the recordation of the Deed, other than the Transfer Taxes which are payable by Seller under Section  4.3 and other than any recording fees and charges in connection with the satisfaction, discharge and other release documents for all title matters that are not Permitted Exceptions (as hereinafter defined). Seller shall pay all recording fees and charges in connection with the satisfaction, discharge and other release documents for all title matters that are not Permitted Exceptions. Purchaser shall pay all title insurance premiums, title examination fees and survey costs incurred by Purchaser. Seller and Purchaser shall each pay 50% of all escrow fees, if any. All other costs, fees, expenses and charges of any kind incident to the sale and conveyance of the Property from Seller to Purchaser, including attorneys’ fees and consultants’ fees (except as otherwise provided in Section 17.15 ), shall be borne by the party incurring the same.

ARTICLE V

TITLE AND SURVEY MATTERS

5.1       Title .

5.1.1           Purchaser’s Title Commitment and Survey . Purchaser shall, at its sole cost and expense, within five (5) Business Days from the date hereof, order a title insurance commitment for an owner’s policy of title insurance for the Property ( Purchaser’s Title  Commitment ) from Stewart Title Insurance Company ( Purchaser’s Title Company ), setting forth the status of title to the Property and any defects in or objections or exceptions to title to the Property, together with true and correct copies of all instruments giving rise to such defects, objections or exceptions. Purchaser shall instruct Purchaser’s Title Company to forward a copy of Purchaser’s Title Commitment and any updates thereof to Seller’s attorney simultaneously with (or promptly after) the issuance thereof to Purchaser. Seller has delivered to Purchaser a copy of a survey of the Property by New York City Land Surveyors, PC ( Surveyor ), dated February 24, 2016 (the “ Survey ”). Purchaser may, at its sole cost and expense, order an updated Survey or survey inspection from the Surveyor. Purchaser shall instruct the Surveyor to forward a copy of any updated Survey or survey inspection and any further updates thereof to Seller’s attorney and Purchaser’s Title Company simultaneously with (or promptly after) the issuance thereof to Purchaser.

5.1.2            Title Objections .   (a) If Purchaser’s Title Commitment, the Survey or any update of either the Survey or Purchaser’s Title Commitment shall reveal or disclose any defects, objections or exceptions in the title to the Property which are not Permitted Exceptions (as hereinafter defined) and to which Purchaser objects ( Title Objections ), then Purchaser (or Purchaser’s counsel) shall notify Seller (or Seller’s counsel) of such Title Objections in writing ( Exception Notice ) within ten (10) Business Days of Purchaser’s receipt of Purchaser’s Title Commitment and the Survey or within five (5) Business Days of Purchaser’s receipt of any update of Purchaser’s Title Commitment or the Survey, as applicable (but in any event prior to the Closing Date).
 
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(b)           If Purchaser does not notify Seller in writing of any such Title Objections within the time period set forth in this Section 5.1.2 , then Purchaser shall be deemed to have accepted the applicable matter as reflected in Purchaser’s Title Commitment and any updates received by Purchaser, and Purchaser shall be deemed to have waived any claims, defects or exceptions which it might otherwise have raised with respect to the matters reflected therein and the same shall be deemed to be Permitted Exceptions for all purposes of this Agreement.
 
5.1.3            Permitted Exceptions to Title . Subject to the terms and provisions of this Agreement, the Property shall be sold and conveyed subject only to the following exceptions to title (the Permitted Exceptions ):

(a)          All presently existing and future liens for unpaid real estate taxes and water and sewer charges not due and payable as of the date of the Closing, subject to adjustment as hereinabove provided or which are made Seller’s obligation under the Lease and the Stipulation;

(b)           Any state of facts shown on the Survey (other than any Title Objections that Seller is expressly obligated pursuant to the terms hereof to remove prior to Closing);

(c)           all laws, ordinances, rules and regulations of any Governmental Authority   (as hereinafter defined), as the same now exist or may be hereafter modified, supplemented, promulgated, meted or issued including, without limitation, any designation by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission and any zoning or land use laws;

(d)           the right, lack of right or restricted right of any owner of the Property to construct and/or maintain (and the right of any Governmental Authority to require the removal of) any vault or vaulted area, in or under the streets, sidewalks or other areas abutting the Property, and any applicable licensing statute, ordinance and regulation, the terms of any license pertaining thereto and the lien of vault taxes, provided any such vault taxes or charges which are then due and payable are paid by Seller at Closing and any such vault taxes or charges which are not then due and payable are apportioned as provided in this Agreement (or are made Seller’s obligation under the Stipulation);

(e)           all presently existing and future liens of real estate assessments and water rates, water meter charges, water frontage charges and sewer taxes, rents and charges, if any, provided that such items are not, as of the Closing, due and payable and are apportioned as provided in this Agreement;

(f)            all violations of laws, ordinances, orders,  requirements or regulations of any Governmental Authority, having jurisdiction with respect to the Property whether or not noted in the records of, or issued by, any Governmental Authority, existing on the Closing Date or hereafter issued or noted, but specifically not including fines or penalties resulting from such violations;

(g)           all possible minor encroachments and/or projections of stoop areas, roof cornices, window trims, vent pipes, cellar doors, steps, columns and column bases, flue pipes, signs, piers, lintels, window sills, fire escapes, satellite dishes, protective netting, sidewalk sheds, ledges, fences, coping walls (including retaining walls and yard walls), air conditioners and the like, if any, on, under or above any street or highway, the Property or any adjoining property;
 
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(h)           standard printed exclusions from coverage contained in the form of title policy or “marked-up” title commitment employed by the Purchaser’s Title Company;
 
(i)            such matters as the Purchaser’s Title Company shall be willing to omit as exceptions to coverage or affirmatively insure over at no cost or expense to Purchaser with respect to an owner’s policy of title insurance issued by Purchaser’s Title Company on the Closing Date and the title insurance policy for Purchaser’s lender;

(j)            minor variations between the tax lot lines and the description of the Land set forth on Exhibit A attached hereto and made a part hereof;

(k)           all utility easements of record;

(l)            the exceptions set forth on Schedule 5.1.3 ;
 
(m)          any matter that is deemed a Permitted Exception in accordance with Section 5.1.2(b) of this Agreement;

(n)          any liens, encumbrances and other matters created by or on behalf of Purchaser, including, without limitation, any documents or instruments to be recorded as part of any financing for the acquisition of the Property by Purchaser;

(o)           any exception not included in the Purchaser’s Exception Notice (hereinafter defined) or deemed to be a Permitted Exception pursuant to the terms hereof; and

(p)          any other matter or thing affecting title to the Property that Purchaser shall have expressly agreed in writing to accept.

 
5.1.4          Seller’s Title Company .  Notwithstanding the provisions of this Article V , in the event that Purchaser’s Title Company shall raise any Title Objection which is not a Permitted Exception, or notwithstanding proof or evidence delivered by Seller sufficient to permit said Title Objections to be omitted, Purchaser’s Title Company shall refuse to omit said Title Objection, Seller shall have no obligation to eliminate such Title Objection and Purchaser shall have no right to terminate the Agreement by reason of such exception if another nationally recognized title company authorized to do business in New York shall be prepared to insure title to the Property at regular rates without such Title Objection and the matter giving rise to such Title Objection shall be deemed to constitute a Permitted Exception hereunder, provided such nationally recognized title company agrees in writing to omit such Title Objection at no additional cost.
 
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5.1.5           Elimination of Liens .

(a)           Notwithstanding anything in this Article V to the contrary, Seller shall be obligated to obtain the release, satisfaction and otherwise discharge of record (or with respect to (1) below, an assignment to Purchaser’s lender, if requested by Purchaser) prior to Closing (1) the lien of any mortgage, deed of trust, security agreement, financing statement, or any other instrument which evidences or secures indebtedness secured by the Property, (2) a mechanics’ or materialmans’ lien (including any broker’s lien), a judgment lien, or any other lien that results from the failure of Seller to pay a claim for work performed or labor or materials furnished (other than with the prior written approval of Purchaser), (3) any encumbrances voluntarily recorded or otherwise placed by Seller against the Property on or following the date hereof without the prior written approval by Purchaser (items (1)-(3), the Required Removal Encumbrances ), and (4) any other lien, judgment or other encumbrance that would not fall within the definition of a Required Removal Encumbrance, that is not a Permitted Exception and which can be satisfied by the payment of a liquidated sum not in excess of $200,000 in the aggregate (such amount, the Other Liens Cap ) for all such other liens (the items described in the preceding subclause (4) being Other Liens ). Seller, in its discretion, may adjourn the Closing Date for up to sixty (60) days in the aggregate in order to eliminate any Other Liens (which are not Permitted Exceptions); provided , however , that in no event shall Seller be permitted to adjourn the Closing Date pursuant to the terms of this Section 5.1.45 to a date which is more than one (1) year from the date hereof. In lieu of eliminating any title defects which are not Permitted Exceptions which Seller shall be required, pursuant to the express terms hereof, to eliminate under this Agreement, Seller may deposit with Purchaser’s Title Company such amount of money as may be determined by Purchaser’s Title Company as being sufficient to induce Purchaser’s Title Company, without the payment of any additional premium or at any cost to Purchaser, to omit such title defects which are not Permitted Exceptions from Purchaser’s title insurance policy and the title insurance policy for Purchaser’s lender. If, as of the Closing Date, there are any title defects (which are not Permitted Exceptions or are not otherwise omitted from Purchaser’s title insurance policy without the payment of additional premiums or cost to Purchaser), then, subject to Seller’s right to adjourn, upon at least five (5) Business Days’ prior notice to Purchaser (or such lesser period during the five (5) Business Days prior to the Scheduled Closing Date), the Closing Date for up to sixty (60) days in the aggregate in order to eliminate any such title defects (but in no event beyond the date which is one (1) year after the date hereof), Purchaser shall have the right (as its sole and exclusive remedy with respect to such matters) either (I) to terminate this Agreement by delivering notice thereof to Seller, in which event Purchaser shall be entitled to the return of the Deposit and Interest and its rights pursuant to Section 13.1 of this Agreement, and neither party shall have any obligations hereunder except those expressly stated to survive the termination of this Agreement, or (II) to waive, in writing, its objection thereto and consummate the Closing, in which event (i) such title defects shall thereupon constitute Permitted Exceptions for all purposes of this Agreement and (ii) Seller shall be obligated, at Closing, to remove any Required Removal Encumbrances which are not Permitted Exceptions and Purchaser shall be entitled to a credit against the Balance of the Purchase Price in an amount equal to the sum of (x) the amount necessary to discharge of record and/or satisfy all of the Required Removal Encumbrances and (y) the lesser of (A) the amount necessary to discharge of record and/or satisfy all of the unsatisfied Other Liens or (B) the Other Liens Cap. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Seller shall have an obligation hereunder to discharge and/or satisfy all Required Removal Encumbrances and Other Liens (subject to the cap on Other Liens set forth herein) at or prior to Closing and Seller’s failure to do so shall constitute a material default by Seller and the provisions of Section 13.1 shall apply; provided , that Purchaser may, at Purchaser’s sole discretion, proceed to the Closing and accept a credit against the Purchase Price equal to the sum of (x) the amount necessary to discharge of record and/or satisfy all of the Required Removal Encumbrances and (y) the lesser of   (A) the amount necessary to discharge of record and/or satisfy all of the unsatisfied Other Liens or (B) the Other Liens Cap.
 
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(b)           Notwithstanding anything in clause  (a) hereof to the contrary, Purchaser may (in its sole discretion) accept such title as Seller can convey, without reduction of the Purchase Price or any credit or allowance on account thereof, except as set forth in Section  5.1.5(a), or any claim against Seller. The acceptance of the Deed by Purchaser shall be deemed to be full performance of, and discharge of, every agreement and obligation on Seller’s part to be performed under this Agreement, except for such matters which are expressly stated in this Agreement to survive the Closing, to the limit of such survival, if any.

5.1.6           Payment from Balance of the Purchase Price .  Any Required Removal Encumbrances or Other Liens, together with the cost of recording or filing any instruments necessary to discharge such Required Removal Encumbrances or Other Liens, may, in Seller’s discretion, be paid out of the proceeds of the Balance of the Purchase Price payable at the Closing. Seller hereby agrees to deliver to Purchaser, at least three (3) Business Days prior to the Closing Date, instruments in recordable form sufficient, in Purchaser’s and Purchaser’s Title Company’s reasonable discretion, to discharge any such Required Removal Encumbrances.  Upon request of Seller, delivered to Purchaser no later than three (3) Business Days prior to the Closing, Purchaser shall instruct the Escrow Agent to apply closing funds to the order of the holder of any such Required Removal Encumbrances or Other Liens, and including any interest and/or penalties, (the Encumbrance Release Funds ) and Purchaser shall be entitled to a credit against the Balance of the Purchase Price in the amount of such Encumbrance Release Funds.

5.1.7            Affidavits .  If Purchaser’s Title Commitment discloses judgments, bankruptcies or other returns against persons having names the same as or similar to that of Seller, then Seller, upon request, shall deliver to Purchaser’s Title Company affidavits, in form reasonably acceptable to Purchaser’s Title Company and to Seller, stating that such judgments, bankruptcies or other returns are not against such Seller. In addition, at Closing, Seller shall deliver an Owner’s Affidavit in the form attached hereto as Exhibit C .

5.2            Violations .  Purchaser agrees to purchase the Property subject to any and all notes or notices of violations of law, or municipal ordinances, orders, designations or requirements whatsoever noted in or issued by any federal, state, municipal or other governmental department, agency or bureau or any other governmental authority having jurisdiction over the Property (collectively, Violations ), or any condition or state of repair or disrepair existing as of the date hereof (including those Violations disclosed by Seller to Purchaser in writing). Purchaser shall accept the Property subject to all Violations, the existence of any conditions at the Property which would give rise to such Violations, if any, and any governmental claims arising from the existence of such Violations, in each case without any abatement of or credit against the Purchase Price. Notwithstanding anything hereinabove to the contrary, (i) any liens, fines, penalties and/or judgments resulting from such Violations shall be governed by Section 5.1.45 above and (ii) if the amounts of any such liens, fines, penalties or judgments resulting from such Violations (together with any Other Liens) shall exceed the Other Liens Cap and the Seller elects not to pay the full amount required to discharge and/or satisfy all such liens, fines, penalties, judgments and Other Liens, then Purchaser may (in its discretion), elect (I) to terminate this Agreement by delivering notice thereof to Seller, in which event Purchaser shall be entitled to the return of the Deposit and Interest and its rights pursuant to Section 13.1 of this Agreement, and neither party shall have any obligations hereunder except those expressly stated to survive the termination of this Agreement, or (II) to consummate the Closing, in which event the parties shall proceed to Closing hereunder and Purchaser shall be entitled to a credit against the Balance of the Purchase Price in an amount equal to the Other Liens Cap.
 
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ARTICLE VI

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF SELLER

6.1          General Representations . Seller represents and warrants that the following matters are true and correct as of the date hereof and as of the Closing Date as follows:

6.1.1            Authority . Seller is a New York State chartered Savings Bank duly formed, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the State of New York and has the requisite power and authority to enter into and perform the terms of this Agreement and all documents executed by Seller which are to be delivered to Purchaser at Closing (the Seller Closing Documents ) in accordance with their respective terms. This Agreement and the Seller Closing Documents are, and at the time of Closing will be, duly authorized, executed and delivered by Seller, the legal, valid and binding obligation of Seller enforceable against Seller in accordance with their respective terms, and do not violate any provision of any agreement or judicial order to which Seller is a party or to which Seller is subject. All documents to be executed by Seller which are to be delivered at Closing will, at the time of Closing, be duly authorized, executed and delivered by Seller and will be legal, valid and binding obligations of Seller. Seller is not subject to any law, order, decree, restriction or agreement which prohibits or would be violated by this Agreement or the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby. Neither the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement nor the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby is prohibited by, or requires Seller to obtain any consent, authorization, approval or registration from any other person or entity or under any law, statute, rule, regulation, judgment, order, writ, injunction or decree which is binding upon Seller.

6.1.2            Leases . Neither Seller nor any of its affiliates is a party to any lease or other occupancy agreement affecting the Property (other than, at Closing, the Lease and the Stipulation) and the only occupant of the Property is Seller (and at Closing, will be the Tenant pursuant to the Lease and the Stipulation).

6.1.3            Contracts . Schedule 6.1.3 attached hereto is a true, correct and complete list of all Existing Contracts to which the Property is subject which will remain in effect after the later to occur of (x) the Closing Date and (y) the expiration of the term of the Stipulation ( Surviving Existing Contracts ). Seller has made available to Purchaser true, correct and complete copies of the Surviving Existing Contracts.

6.1.4            Purchase Rights . There are no rights of first offer to purchase, rights of first refusal to purchase, purchase options or similar rights or pertaining to the Property. Except pursuant to this Agreement, Seller has not conveyed or contracted to convey any air or development rights appurtenant to all or any portion of the Property.
 
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6.1.5            Union .  Seller is not party to a union contract and there are no retroactive increases or other accrued and unpaid sums owed to any employee which will be binding on Purchaser.

6.2            No Survival . The express representations and warranties made in this Agreement by Seller shall merge into the Deed and shall not survive the Closing. From and after the Closing Date, (i) Seller shall have no liability for any losses, claims, costs or expenses suffered or incurred by Purchaser as a result of the inaccuracy of any of the representations or warranties of Seller set forth in Section 6.1 hereof and/or under any of the certificates of Seller updating such representations and warranties set forth in, or delivered pursuant to, this Agreement.  The terms and provisions of this Section 6.2 shall survive Closing and/or termination of this Agreement.

6.3           Representations as a Condition to Closing .  If any of the representations and warranties of Seller set forth herein above or any other representations and warranties of Seller contained in this Agreement shall not be true and correct in all material respects as of the Closing Date (except to the extent any such representations and warranties expressly relate to an earlier date and with such changes as are permitted under, or result by reason of the effect of, this Agreement), then the same shall be deemed a Seller default pursuant to Section 13.1 of this Agreement; provided , however , that Purchaser’s sole remedy with respect to any such default shall be to terminate this Agreement and receive the Deposit and Interest accrued thereunder.

ARTICLE VII

“AS IS” SALE
 
Subject only to Seller’s covenants and indemnifications in this Agreement or any other Seller Closing Document, Purchaser shall purchase the Property in its “AS IS” condition at the Closing Date, subject to all latent and patent defects (whether physical, financial or legal, including permitted title defects), based solely on Purchaser’s own inspection, analysis and evaluation of the Property and not in reliance on any records or other information obtained from Seller or on Seller’s behalf. Purchaser acknowledges that it is not relying on any statement or representation that has been made or that in the future may be made by Seller or any of Seller’s employees, agents, attorneys or representatives concerning the condition of the Property (whether relating to physical conditions, operation, performance, title, or legal matters). Purchaser acknowledges that the Improvements do not have a certificate of occupancy.
 
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ARTICLE VIII

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF PURCHASER

Purchaser represents and warrants to Seller that the following matters are true and correct as of the date hereof.

8.1            Authority . Purchaser is a limited liability company, duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of Delaware. This Agreement and all documents executed by Purchaser which are to be delivered to Seller at Closing have been or will be on the Closing Date duly authorized, executed and delivered by Purchaser, are the legal, valid and binding obligation of Purchaser enforceable against Purchaser in accordance with their respective terms, and do not violate any provision of any agreement or judicial order to which Purchaser is a party or to which Purchaser is subject. All documents to be executed by Purchaser which are to be delivered at Closing will, at the time of Closing, be duly authorized, executed and delivered by Purchaser, be legal, valid and binding obligations of Purchaser, and will not violate any provision of any agreement or judicial order to which Purchaser is a party or to which Purchaser is subject.  Neither the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement nor the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby is prohibited by, or requires Purchaser to obtain any consent, authorization, approval or registration from any other person or entity or under any law, statute, rule, regulation, judgment, order, writ, injunction or decree which is binding upon Purchaser.

8.2            Bankruptcy or Debt of Purchaser .  Purchaser represents and warrants to Seller that Purchaser has not made a general assignment for the benefit of creditors, filed any voluntary petition in bankruptcy or, to Purchaser’s knowledge, suffered the filing of an involuntary petition by Purchaser’s creditors, suffered the appointment of a receiver to take possession of all, or substantially all, of Purchaser’s assets, suffered the attachment or other judicial seizure of all, or substantially all, of Purchaser’s assets, admitted in writing its inability to pay its debts as they come due or made an offer of settlement, extension or composition to its creditors generally.

8.3            No Financing Contingency . It is expressly acknowledged by Purchaser that the transaction contemplated by this Agreement is not subject to any financing contingency and that no financing for the transaction contemplated by this Agreement shall be provided by Seller.
 
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8.4            Purchaser’s Acknowledgment .  Purchaser acknowledges and agrees that, except as expressly provided in this Agreement or any other Seller Closing Document, the form of which is annexed hereto or is otherwise approved by Purchaser, including Article VI hereof, Seller has not made, does not make and specifically disclaims any representations, warranties, promises, covenants, agreements or guaranties of any kind or character whatsoever, whether express or implied, oral or written, past, present or future, of, as to, concerning or with respect to (a) the nature, quality or condition of the Property, including, without limitation, the water, soil and geology, (b) the income to be derived from the Property, (c) the suitability of the Property for any and all activities and uses which Purchaser may conduct thereon, (d) the compliance of or by the Property or its operation with any laws, rules, ordinances, designations or regulations of any applicable governmental authority or body, including, without limitation, the Americans with Disabilities Act, any applicable federal, state or local landmark designations, and any rules and regulations promulgated under or in connection with any of the foregoing, (e) the habitability, merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose of the Property, (f) the current or future real estate tax liability, assessment or valuation of the Property, (g) the availability or non-availability or withdrawal or revocation of any benefits or incentives conferred by any federal, state or municipal authorities or (h) any other matter with respect to the Property, and specifically that Seller has not made, does not make and specifically disclaims any representations regarding solid waste, as defined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations at 40 C.F.R., Part 261, or the disposal or existence, in or on the Property, of any hazardous substance, as defined by the Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act of 1980, as amended, and applicable state laws, and regulations promulgated thereunder. Purchaser further acknowledges and agrees that having been given the opportunity to inspect the Property, except as specifically provided in this Agreement or any other Seller Closing Document including Article VI hereof, Purchaser is relying solely on its own investigation of the Property and not on any information provided or to be provided by, or on behalf of, Seller and that Purchaser has completed its due diligence review of the Property. Purchaser further acknowledges and agrees that any information provided or to be provided with respect to the Property was obtained from a variety of sources and that Seller, except as otherwise expressly provided herein, has not made any independent investigation or verification of such information. PURCHASER FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT, EXCEPT AS EXPRESSLY PROVIDED IN THIS AGREEMENT OR ANY OTHER SELLER DOCUMENT AND AS A MATERIAL INDUCEMENT TO SELLER’S EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF THIS AGREEMENT, THE SALE OF THE PROPERTY AS PROVIDED FOR HEREIN IS ON AN “AS IS, WHERE IS” CONDITION AND BASIS. Purchaser acknowledges, represents and warrants that Purchaser is not in a significantly disparate bargaining position with respect to Seller in connection with the transaction contemplated by this Agreement; that Purchaser freely and fairly agreed to this waiver as part of the negotiations for the transaction contemplated by this Agreement; and that Purchaser is represented by legal counsel in connection with the transaction by this Agreement and Purchaser has conferred with such legal counsel concerning this waiver. The terms and provisions of this Section 8.4 shall survive the Closing and/or termination of this Agreement.
 
8.5           Patriot Act .

8.5.1           Purchaser hereby represents and warrants that Purchaser (i) is in compliance with the Office of Foreign Assets Control sanctions and regulations promulgated under the authority granted by the Trading with the Enemy Act, 12 U.S.C. § 95 (a) et seq., and the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, 50 U.S.C. § 1701, et seq., as the same apply to it or its activities; (ii) is in compliance with that certain Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001, as amended from time to time (the Patriot Act ) and all rules and regulations promulgated under such Act applicable to Purchaser; and (iii) (A) is not now, nor has ever been, under investigation by any governmental authority for, nor has been charged with or convicted of a crime under, 18 U.S.C. §§ 1956 or 1957 or any predicate offense thereunder; (B) has never been assessed a civil penalty under any anti-money laundering laws or predicate offenses thereunder; (C) has not had any of its funds seized, frozen or forfeited in any action relating to any anti-money laundering laws or predicate offenses thereunder; (D) has taken such steps and implemented such policies as are reasonably necessary to ensure that it is not promoting, facilitating or otherwise furthering, intentionally or unintentionally, the transfer, deposit or withdrawal of criminally-derived property, or of money or monetary instruments which are (or which Purchaser suspects or has reason to believe are) the proceeds of any illegal activity or which are intended to be used to promote or further any illegal activity; and (E) has taken such steps and implemented such policies as are reasonably necessary to ensure that it is in compliance with all laws and regulations applicable to its business for the prevention of money laundering and with anti-terrorism laws and regulations, with respect both to the source of funds from its investors and from its operations, and that such steps include the development and implementation of an anti-money laundering compliance program within the meaning of Section 352 of the Patriot Act, to the extent such a party is required to develop such a program under the rules and regulations promulgated pursuant to Section 352 of the Patriot Act.
 
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8.5.2            Neither Purchaser nor, to the knowledge of Purchaser, any other person owning a direct or indirect, legal or beneficial interest in Purchaser is in violation of the Executive Order or the Patriot Act.

8.5.3            Neither the Purchaser nor, to the knowledge of Purchaser, any of its constituents, investors (direct or indirect and whether or not holding a legal or beneficial interest) or affiliates, acting or benefiting, directly or indirectly, in any capacity in connection with the Property, this Agreement, or any of the transactions contemplated hereby, is: (i) listed in the Annex to, or otherwise subject to the provisions of, that certain Executive Order No. 13224 on Terrorist Financing, effective September 24, 2001, and relating to Blocking Property and Prohibiting Transactions With Persons Who Commit, Threaten to Commit or Support Terrorism (the Executive Order ), (ii) that is named as a “specifically designated national (SDN)” on the most current list published by the U.S. Treasury Department Office of Foreign Assets Control at its official website (http://www.treas.gov.ofac/t11sdn.pdf) or at any replacement website or other replacement official publication of such list or that is named on any other Governmental Authority list issued post 9/11/2001, (iii) acting, directly or indirectly, in contravention of any AML Law or terrorist organizations or narcotics traffickers, including those persons that are included on any relevant lists maintained by the United Nations, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Financial Action Task Force on Money Laundering, U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control, U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Central Intelligence Agency, U.S. Internal Revenue Service, all as may be amended or superseded from time to time or (iv) that is owned or controlled by, or acting for or on behalf of, any person described in clause (i), (ii) or (iii) above.
 
8.5.4            To the knowledge of Purchaser, none of the funds or other assets of the Purchaser constitute property of, or are beneficially owned, directly or indirectly, by any person, entity or government subject to trade restrictions under U.S. law, including but not limited to, (i) the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, 50 U.S.C. §§ 1701 et seq., (ii) The Trading with the Enemy Act, 50 U.S.C. App. 1 et seq., and (iii) any executive orders or regulations promulgated thereunder, with the result that sale to Purchaser, its managing member or any non-managing member (whether directly or indirectly) is prohibited by law (an Embargoed Person ). No Embargoed Person has any interest of any nature whatsoever in the Purchaser (whether directly or indirectly), and none of the funds of any Purchaser have been derived from any unlawful activity with the result that an investment in the Purchaser (whether directly or indirectly) or sale to the Purchaser, is prohibited by law or that execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement or any of the transactions contemplated hereby is in violation of law.
 
Any material breach by Purchaser of the foregoing representations and warranties shall be deemed a default by Purchaser under Section 13.2 of this Agreement and (y) the representations and warranties contained in this Article VIII shall be continuing in nature and shall survive the expiration or earlier termination of this Agreement.
 
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ARTICLE IX

SELLER’S INTERIM OPERATING COVENANTS

9.1            Operations .  Except as may be expressly provided in this Agreement, Seller agrees, at its cost and expense, to operate, maintain and manage its interest in the Property through the Closing Date or earlier termination of this Agreement in substantially the same manner as it has operated, maintained and managed the Property through the date hereof, subject to ordinary wear and tear and further subject to this Article IX . Seller shall have no obligation to make any capital replacements to the Improvements from and after the date hereof except as required to perform Seller’s obligations under any agreement to which Seller is a party. Additionally Seller shall not mortgage, lien, pledge, encumber, sell or transfer or otherwise dispose of the Property or any interest therein, including, without limitation, any air or development rights related to the Property.

9.2            Maintain Insurance .  From and after the date hereof and prior to the Closing, Seller shall pay all required premiums and not take or permit any action that would result in the cancellation, termination or suspension of any of the property, casualty and liability insurance policies described on Schedule 9.2 hereof (the Insurance Policies ).

9.3            Notices of Violation; Other Notices .  Seller shall promptly notify Purchaser of, and shall promptly deliver to Purchaser a copy of, any notice Seller or any affiliate of Seller may receive or send, from and after the date hereof and prior to the Closing, from or to any governmental authority, concerning a violation of laws at the Property. Seller shall promptly notify Purchaser of, and shall deliver to Purchaser a copy of any notice Seller shall receive prior to the Closing, with respect to any material litigation, arbitration, proceeding or administrative procedure with any person or entity which affects the Property.

9.4            Permits and Licenses .  Except as required pursuant to the terms of any permit or license or as otherwise required by any Governmental Authority, Seller will not amend, modify cancel or rescind any of the permits and licenses prior to the Closing Date. For purposes of this Agreement, the term Governmental Authority means the United States, the State, County and City of New York, and any political subdivision, agency, authority, department, court, commission, board, bureau or instrumentality of any of the foregoing which has or is asserting jurisdiction over any of the parties hereto or over any of the Property.

9.5            Casualty and Condemnation .  Seller shall promptly deliver to Purchaser notice of any fire or other casualty occurring at the Property between the date hereof and the date of Closing and of which Seller has actual knowledge. Seller shall promptly deliver to Purchaser notice of any actual or threatened condemnation of all or any part of the Property of which Seller obtains knowledge.

9.6            Leases .  Seller shall not enter into any leases, licenses or other occupancy agreements with respect to the Property.
 
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9.7            Zoning; Landmarks .  Seller shall not change or submit any application to change the current zoning or legal use of the Property. Seller shall not contact the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission regarding the Improvements and shall not take any affirmative action in connection with a proposed designation of the Improvements for landmark status including, without limitation, responding to any inquiries from the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission or their agents and representatives, other than to object to any such designation.

9.8           Subdivision .

9.8.1            The provisions of Section 9.8 of that certain Purchase and Sale Agreement dated as of October 7, 2015 (as amended, the Other PSA ) between Seller and Havemeyer Owner LLC, as successor-by-assignment to Purchaser ( Purchaser’s Affiliate ), with respect to the real property and improvements located at Block 2447, Lots 13, 19, 35, 41 and 135, in Kings County, New York, shall be deemed amended hereby such that Seller shall not be required to pursue the subdivision of Block 2447, Lot 36 into two (2) separate and distinct tax lots as contemplated by Section 9.8 of the Other PSA; provided , however , that in the event that this Agreement is terminated as a result of Seller’s default hereunder, then the deemed amendment of the Other PSA described in this Section 9.8.1 shall be void. Purchaser’s Affiliate has countersigned this Agreement to evidence such amendment to the Other PSA and shall be a third party beneficiary of this Section 9.8.

9.8.2            The provisions of this Section 9.8 shall survive until the expiration of the term of the Stipulation.

9.9             Cornice .  From and after the Closing, none of Purchaser nor the purchaser under the Other PSA shall have any remaining obligations pursuant to Section 9.10 of the Other PSA. The purchaser under the Other PSA shall be a third-party beneficiary under this Section 9.10. This Section 9.9 shall survive the Closing.

9.10          Cooperation . Nothing herein shall limit, prohibit or restrict Purchaser from submitting and pursuing an application for an ALT-1, ALT-2 or similar permit from the New York City Department of Buildings with respect to work to be performed on the Property and Seller shall cooperate with Purchaser in all reasonable respects in connection therewith; provided , that (i) such cooperation shall be at no material cost or expense to Seller and (ii) in no event shall Purchaser have the right to perform any work contemplated by such permit.

ARTICLE X

CLOSING CONDITIONS

10.1         Conditions to Obligations of Seller .

10.1.1         The obligations of Seller under this Agreement to sell the Property and consummate the other transactions contemplated hereby shall be subject to the satisfaction of the following conditions on or before the Closing Date, except to the extent that any of such conditions may be waived by Seller in writing at or prior to Closing in Seller’s sole and absolute discretion.
 
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(a)           All representations and warranties of Purchaser contained in Article VIII of this Agreement shall be true and correct in all material respects as of the Closing Date, with the same force and effect as if such representations and warranties were made anew as of the Closing Date, and Purchaser shall have performed and complied in all material respects with all covenants and agreements required by this Agreement to be performed or complied with by Purchaser on or prior to the Closing Date.

(b)         Purchaser shall have delivered the documents and instruments required to be delivered by Purchaser pursuant to Section 11.3 of this Agreement.
 
(c)           No order, writ, injunction or decree (collectively, Order ) shall have been entered and be in effect by any court of competent jurisdiction or any authority, and no requirement of any Governmental Authority shall have been promulgated or enacted and be in effect, that restrains, enjoins or invalidates the transactions contemplated hereby or the current use of the Property; provided that if any of the foregoing shall be in effect as a direct or indirect result of Seller’s acts or omissions taken or omitted by Seller with the intention of preventing the Closing, the failure of Seller to close by reason any of the foregoing shall constitute a default by Seller hereunder, entitling Purchaser to all rights and remedies of Purchaser provided under Section 13.1 hereof.

10.1.2          Subject to Article XII and Section 3.2 , in the event Seller shall elect not to close due to the failure of any one or more of the conditions precedent to Seller’s obligation to sell set forth in this Section 10.1 which has not been waived by Seller in writing in Seller’s sole and absolute discretion and which failure was caused by a default by Purchaser of its obligations hereunder which entitles the Seller to the Deposit and Interest pursuant to Article  XIII, Seller shall so notify Purchaser and Escrow Agent no later than the day of Closing in writing specifying the unfulfilled conditions, and, subject to the provisions of Section 3.2.5 , Escrow Agent shall deliver the Deposit and Interest to Seller, and this Agreement shall terminate, and neither party shall have any further obligation under this Agreement (except the Surviving Termination Obligations (as hereinafter defined)).

10.2         Conditions to Obligations of Purchaser .

10.2.1         The obligations of Purchaser under this Agreement to purchase the Property and consummate the other transactions contemplated hereby shall be subject to the satisfaction of the following conditions on or before the Closing Date, except to the extent that any of such conditions may be waived by Purchaser in writing at or prior to Closing in the Purchaser’s sole and absolute discretion.

(a)           Reserved;

(b)          Seller shall have delivered the documents and instruments required to be delivered by Seller pursuant to Section 11.1 of this Agreement.

(c)           No Order shall have been entered and be in effect by any court of competent jurisdiction or any authority, and no requirement of any Governmental Authority shall have been promulgated or enacted and be in effect, that restrains, enjoins or invalidates the transactions contemplated hereby or the current use of the Property; provided , that if any of the foregoing shall be in effect as a direct or indirect result of Purchaser’s acts or omissions taken or omitted by Purchaser with the intention of preventing the Closing, the failure of Purchaser to close by reason of any of the foregoing shall constitute a default by Purchaser hereunder, entitling Seller to all rights and remedies of Seller provided under Section 13.2 hereof.
 
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(d)           Title to the Property shall be delivered to Purchaser subject only to the Permitted Exceptions.

10.2.2          Subject to Article XII and Section 3.2 and further subject to Seller’s right to adjourn the Closing hereunder, in the event Purchaser shall elect not to close due to the failure of any one or more of the conditions precedent to Purchaser’s obligation to consummate the transaction set forth in this Section 10.2 which has not been waived by Purchaser in writing in Purchaser’s sole and absolute discretion, Purchaser shall so notify Seller and Escrow Agent no later than the day of Closing in writing specifying the unfulfilled conditions, and, except as otherwise provided in Article XIII , Escrow Agent shall deliver the Deposit to Purchaser and this Agreement shall terminate, and neither party shall have any further obligation under this Agreement (except the Surviving Termination Obligations).

ARTICLE XI

CLOSING

11.1          Seller’s Closing Obligations . Seller shall execute, acknowledge (where applicable) and deliver or cause to be delivered to Purchaser at Closing the following:

11.1.1         A bargain and sale deed without covenants in the form of Exhibit D-1   attached hereto, conveying to Purchaser Seller’s right, title and interest in the Real Property, subject only to the Permitted Exceptions (the Deed );
 
11.1.2         A general assignment in the form of Exhibit D-2 , conveying to Purchaser Seller’s right, title and interest in the Intangible Property (the Assignment );

11.1.3         Reserved;

11.1.4          The following items to the extent in Seller’s possession, or under Seller’s control: (i) keys for all entrance doors to the Property and (ii) all warranties, guaranties, operating reports, permits, licenses, files, drawings, plans and specifications relating to the Property and other materials related to the ownership or operation of the Property;

11.1.5         A certificate substantially in the form of Exhibit F attached hereto certifying that Seller is not a “foreign person” as defined in Section 1445 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended;

11.1.6         A New York City Real Property Transfer Tax Return and New York State Combined Real Estate Transfer Tax Return and Credit Line Mortgage Certificate (Form TP-584) (together, the Transfer Tax Returns ), each duly signed by Seller, together with the payment of the amount of the Transfer Taxes, if any, due in connection with the transactions contemplated hereunder, in each case by delivery to Purchaser’s Title Company of a certified check payable to the order of the Commissioner of Finance in the amount of the Transfer Tax due to New York City and a certified check payable to the order of the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance in the amount of the Transfer Tax due to New York State (unless Seller elects to have Purchaser make such payments with a credit against the Purchase Price, in which case such payments shall be so made by Purchaser);
 
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11.1.7          (a) Evidence reasonably satisfactory to Purchaser and Purchaser’s Title Company that the person executing the Closing documents on behalf of Seller has full right, power and authority to do so, and (b) an Owner’s Affidavit in the form of Exhibit C attached hereto (with such changes as necessary for Purchaser’s Title Company to omit any title objections which Seller is obligated or elects to discharge and/or satisfy hereunder);

11.1.8          A lease, executed by Tenant, in the form attached hereto as Exhibit I   (the Lease ), together with the payment of any security deposit required thereunder; provided, however, that Seller may elect to not enter into the Lease by giving Purchaser notice of such election at least ninety (90) days prior to the Closing, in which event Seller and Purchaser shall apportion the Purchase Price, as provided in Section 21.6 of the Lease, as of the Closing Date;

11.1.9          Provided Tenant has elected to enter into the Lease, a Surrender Agreement (and the annexed Stipulation and Notice of Petition Holdover) executed by Landlord (where applicable) and Tenant, in the form attached hereto as Exhibit J (the Stipulation ); and

11.1.10       Such other documents as may be reasonably necessary or appropriate to effect the consummation of the transactions which are the subject of this Agreement.

11.2         Intentionally Omitted .

11.3          Purchaser’s Closing Obligations . Purchaser, at its sole cost and expense, shall deliver or cause to be delivered to Seller at Closing the following:

11.3.1          The Balance of the Purchase Price, after all adjustments are made at the Closing as herein provided, by Federal Reserve wire transfer of immediately available funds;

11.3.2          Purchaser shall duly execute, acknowledge (as appropriate) and deliver to Seller at Closing:

(a)           a declaration of restrictions, executed by Purchaser for the benefit of Seller, in the form attached hereto as Exhibit L (the Declaration of Restrictions );

(b)          the Lease and the Stipulation, if applicable; and

(c)           the Transfer Tax Returns.

11.3.3          Evidence reasonably satisfactory to Seller’s and Purchaser’s Title Company that the person executing the Closing documents on behalf of Purchaser has full right, power and authority to do so;

11.3.4         A certificate in the form of Exhibit K attached hereto ( Purchaser’s  Representation Certificate ), indicating that the representations and warranties of Purchaser set forth in Article VIII are true and correct on the Closing Date, or, if there have been changes, describing such changes; and
 
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11.3.5         Such other documents as may be reasonably necessary or appropriate to effect the consummation of the transactions which are the subject of this Agreement.

ARTICLE XII

RISK OF LOSS

12.1          Casualty .  If all or any part of the Property is damaged by fire or other casualty occurring following the date hereof and prior to the Closing, whether or not such damage affects a material part of the Property, then neither party shall have the right to terminate this Agreement, and the parties shall nonetheless consummate this transaction in accordance with this Agreement, without any abatement of the Purchase Price or any liability or obligation on the part of Seller by reason of said destruction or damage. In such event, Seller shall be entitled to retain all casualty insurance proceeds received under the casualty insurance policies in effect with respect to the Property on account of said physical damage or destruction.

12.2         Condemnation .

12.2.1          If, prior to the Closing Date, any part of the Property is taken (other than a temporary taking), or if Seller shall receive an official notice from any governmental authority having eminent domain power over the Property of its intention to take, by eminent domain proceeding, any part of the Property (a Taking ), then:

(a)           if such Taking results in a decrease of 10% or less of the floor area development rights currently existing with respect to the Property, as determined by an independent architect chosen by Seller (subject to Purchaser’s review and reasonable approval of such determination and the provisions of Section 12.2.2 below), then neither party shall have any right to terminate this Agreement, and the parties shall nonetheless consummate the transaction in accordance with this Agreement, without any abatement of the Purchase Price or any liability or obligation on the part of Seller by reason of such Taking; provided , however , that Seller shall, on the Closing Date, (i) assign and remit to Purchaser, and Purchaser shall be entitled to receive and keep, the net proceeds of any award or other proceeds of such Taking which may have been collected by Seller as a result of such Taking less the reasonable out of pocket expenses incurred by Seller in connection with such Taking, or (ii) if no award or other proceeds shall have been collected, deliver to Purchaser, an assignment of Seller’s right to any such award or other proceeds which may be payable to Seller as a result of such Taking, and Purchaser shall reimburse Seller for the reasonable out of pocket expenses incurred by Seller in connection with such Taking at the time of Purchaser’s receipt of any such award or other proceeds.
 
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(b)           if such Taking results in a decrease of more than 10% of the floor area development rights currently existing with respect to the Property, as determined by an independent architect chosen by Seller (subject to Purchaser’s review and reasonable approval of such determination and the provisions of Section 12.2.2 below), then Purchaser shall have the option, exercisable within thirty (30) days after receipt of notice of such Taking (but in any event prior to the Closing Date), time being of the essence, to terminate this Agreement by delivering notice thereof to Seller, whereupon the Deposit and Interest shall be returned to Purchaser, and this Agreement shall be deemed canceled and of no further force or effect, and neither party shall have any further rights or liabilities against or to the other except pursuant to the provisions of this Agreement which are expressly provided to survive the termination hereof. If a Taking described in this clause (b) shall occur and Purchaser shall not have timely elected to terminate this Agreement, then Purchaser and Seller shall consummate this transaction in accordance with this Agreement, without any abatement of the Purchase Price or any liability or obligation on the part of Seller by reason of such Taking; provided , however , that Seller shall, on the Closing Date, (i) assign and remit to Purchaser, and Purchaser shall be entitled to receive and keep, the net proceeds of any award or other proceeds of such Taking which may have been collected by Seller as a result of such Taking less the reasonable out of pocket expenses incurred by Seller in connection with such Taking, or (ii) if no award or other proceeds shall have been collected, deliver to Purchaser, an assignment of Seller’s right to any such award or other proceeds which may be payable to Seller as a result of such Taking, and Purchaser shall reimburse Seller for the reasonable out of pocket expenses incurred by Seller in connection with such Taking at the time of Purchaser’s receipt of any such award or other proceeds. Seller shall not compromise or settle any claim without Purchaser’s prior written consent (which shall not be unreasonably withheld).

12.2.2          Any disputes under this Article XII as to whether the Taking results in a decrease of 10% or less of the floor area development rights currently existing with respect to the Property shall be resolved by expedited arbitration before a single arbitrator acceptable to both Seller and Purchaser in their reasonable judgment in accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association; provided , that if Seller and Purchaser fail to agree on an arbitrator within five (5) days after a dispute arises, then either party may request The Real Estate Board of New York, Inc. to designate an arbitrator. Such arbitrator shall be an independent architect or appraiser (as applicable) having at least ten (10) years of experience in the construction of, or valuation of, office buildings in Brooklyn. The costs and expenses of such arbitrator shall be borne equally by Seller and Purchaser.

12.3          General Obligations Law .   The provisions of this Article XIII are intended to supersede those of Section 5-1311 of the General Obligations Law of New York.

ARTICLE XIII

DEFAULT

13.1          Default by Seller .  If Seller shall default in the performance of any of its obligations to be performed by Seller on or prior to the Scheduled Closing Date in any material respect, Purchaser may elect, as the sole and exclusive remedy of Purchaser, to (i) terminate this Agreement and receive the Deposit and Interest accrued thereon from the Escrow Agent in accordance with the terms and provisions of Section 3.2 hereof, and in such event, Seller shall not have any liability whatsoever to Purchaser hereunder other than with respect to the Surviving Termination Obligations or (ii) enforce specific performance of Seller’s obligations under this Agreement, provided that any action for specific performance shall be commenced within one hundred twenty (120) days after the Scheduled Closing Date. Notwithstanding the foregoing, from and after the Closing, nothing contained in this Section 13.1 shall limit Purchaser’s remedies at law or in equity as to the Surviving Termination Obligations.
 
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13.2          Default by Purchaser .  If (i) Purchaser shall default in the payment of the Additional Deposit, or (ii) Purchaser shall default in the payment of the Purchase Price or in the performance of its obligations to be performed on the Scheduled Closing Date in any material respect, then Purchaser and Seller agree it would be impractical and extremely difficult to fix the damages which Seller may suffer. Therefore, Purchaser and Seller hereby agree a reasonable estimate of the total net detriment Seller would suffer in the event Purchaser defaults and fails to complete the purchase of the Property is and shall be, as Seller’s sole and exclusive remedy (whether at law or in equity), a sum equal to the Deposit and Interest. Upon such default by Purchaser and failure to close as required hereunder, Seller shall have the right to receive the Deposit and Interest from the Escrow Agent, in accordance with the terms and provisions of Section 3.2 hereof, as its sole and exclusive remedy, and thereupon, this Agreement shall terminate, and neither Seller nor Purchaser shall have any further rights or obligations hereunder except with respect to the Surviving Termination Obligations. THE AMOUNT OF THE DEPOSIT AND INTEREST SHALL BE THE FULL, AGREED AND LIQUIDATED DAMAGES FOR SUCH DEFAULT, ALL OTHER CLAIMS TO DAMAGES OR OTHER REMEDIES BEING HEREBY EXPRESSLY WAIVED BY SELLER.

ARTICLE XIV

BROKERS

14.1         Brokerage Indemnity .

14.1.1          Seller and Purchaser each represents and warrants to the other that it has not dealt or negotiated with any broker in connection with the sale of the Property as provided by this Agreement.

14.1.2         Purchaser shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless Seller, its affiliates, and its and their partners, members, trustees, advisors, officers, and directors, against all losses, damages, costs, expenses (including reasonable fees and expenses of attorneys), causes of action, suits or judgments of any nature arising out of any claim, demand or liability to or asserted by any broker, agent or finder, licensed or otherwise, claiming to have dealt with Purchaser in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement other than Cushman & Wakefield Realty of Manhattan LLC.

14.1.3         Seller shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless Purchaser and its affiliates, and its and their partners, members, trustees, advisors, officers and directors, against all losses, damages, costs, expenses (including reasonable fees and expenses of attorneys), causes of action, suits or judgments of any nature arising out of any claim, demand or liability to or asserted by any broker, agent or finder, licensed or otherwise, claiming to have dealt with Seller in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement including, without limitation, Cushman & Wakefield Realty of Manhattan, LLC.
 
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14.1.4         The provisions of this Article XV shall survive the Closing and/or termination of this Agreement.

ARTICLE XV

PUBLICATION AND CONFIDENTIALITY

15.1          Publication .  Purchaser and Seller agree that upon execution of this Agreement and at Closing, neither party shall issue a press release or make any public statements with respect to this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby, except that Seller shall be permitted to make such filings regarding this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby solely to the extent required by law or requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Seller shall request that Seller’s broker, Cushman & Wakefield Realty of Manhattan, LLC, not issue a press release or make any public statements with respect to this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby.

15.2          Confidentiality .   Purchaser shall not disclose the terms of this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby or any non-public information received in connection therewith to any third party, except, Purchaser’s lawyers, investors, consultants, accountants, mortgage brokers, and lenders, all actual or prospective, and affiliates who are instructed to keep such information confidential in accordance with the terms hereof who need to know such terms or are otherwise compelled by law or judicial mandate.

ARTICLE XVI

RESERVED

ARTICLE XVII

MISCELLANEOUS

17.1          Notices . Any and all notices, requests, demands or other communications hereunder shall be given in writing and by hand delivery, by electronic delivery (portable document format) (with confirmation of electronic mail by electronic receipt or reply email), by overnight courier, or by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, first class postage prepaid addressed as follows (or to such new address as the addressee of such a communication may have notified the sender thereof):

To Seller:

The Dime Savings Bank of Williamsburgh
209 Havemeyer Street
Brooklyn, New York 11211
Attention: Michael Pucella
Email: mpucella@dime.com
 
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With a copy to:

The Dime Savings Bank of Williamsburgh
209 Havemeyer Street
Brooklyn, New York 11211
Attention: Charles Terrasi
Email: cterrasi@dime.com

And to:

Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP
Four Times Square
New York, New York 10036
Attention: Marco P. Caffuzzi, Esq.
Email: marco.caffuzzi@skadden.com

To Purchaser:

Havemeyer Owner BB LLC
27 W 24th St., Suite 702
New York, NY 10010
Attention: Nicholas Silver
Email: nsilvers@tavroscapital.com

With a copy to:

Szenberg & Okun PLLC
152 West 57th Street, 22nd Fl
New York, NY 10019
Attention: Jacob Okun, Esq.
Email: jacob.okun@szenok.com

To Escrow Agent:

Title Associates, a division of Stewart Title Insurance Company
825 Third Avenue, 30th Floor
New York, NY 10022
Attn: Jack Foley
Email: jfoley@titleassociates.com

Purchaser’s counsel may give any notices or other communications hereunder on behalf of Purchaser, and Seller’s counsel may give any notices or other communications hereunder on behalf of Seller, and each notice so given shall have the same force and effect as if sent by such party. Any notice hereunder shall be deemed given on the date of receipt by the addressee or the date receipt would have been effectuated if delivery were not refused. The inability to deliver a notice because of a changed address of which proper notice was not given shall be deemed a refusal of such notice.
 
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17.2         Governing Law; Venue .

17.2.1          This Agreement was negotiated in the State of New York and was executed and delivered by Seller and Purchaser in the State of New York, which State the parties agree has a substantial relationship to the parties and to the underlying transactions embodied hereby, and in all respects, including, without limiting the generality of the foregoing, matters of construction, validity, enforcement and performance, this Agreement and the obligations arising hereunder shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York applicable to contracts made and performed wholly within such State, without giving effect to the principles of conflicts of law of such jurisdiction. To the fullest extent permitted by law, the parties hereby unconditionally and irrevocably waive and release any claim that the law of any other jurisdiction governs this Agreement, and this Agreement shall be governed and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York as aforesaid pursuant to Section 5-1401 of the New York General Obligations Law.
 
17.2.2         To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, any legal suit, action or proceeding against any of the parties hereto arising out of or relating to this Agreement shall be instituted in any federal or state court in New York, New York, pursuant to Section 5-1402 of the New York General Obligations Law, and each party hereby irrevocably submits to the exclusive jurisdiction of any such court in any such suit, action or proceeding. Each party hereby agrees to venue in such courts and hereby waives, to the fullest extent permitted by law, any claim that any such action or proceeding was brought in an inconvenient forum.

17.3          Headings .  The captions and headings herein are for convenience and reference only and in no way define or limit the scope or content of this Agreement or in any way affect its provisions.

17.4          Business Days .  If any date herein set forth for the performance of any obligations of Seller or Purchaser or for the delivery of any instrument or notice as herein provided should be on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday, the compliance with such obligations or delivery shall be deemed acceptable on the next Business Day following such Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday. As used herein, (i) the term legal holiday means any state or Federal holiday for which financial institutions or post offices are generally closed in the State of New York and (ii) the term Business Day means any weekday of Monday through Friday which is not a legal holiday.

17.5          Counterpart Copies .   This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterpart copies, all of which counterparts shall have the same force and effect as if all parties hereto had executed a single copy of this Agreement.

17.6          Binding Effect .   This Agreement shall not become a binding obligation upon Seller or Purchaser unless and until the same has been fully executed by both Purchaser and Seller and a fully executed counterpart has been delivered by Seller to Purchaser

17.7          Successors and Assigns . This Agreement shall be binding upon, and inure to the benefit of, the parties hereto and their respective successors and permitted assigns.
 
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17.8          Assignment . This Agreement may not be assigned by Purchaser and any assignment or attempted assignment by Purchaser shall constitute a default hereunder and shall be deemed null and void and of no force or effect. A transfer of the controlling direct or indirect ownership interests of Purchaser shall constitute an assignment of this Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Agreement may be assigned by Purchaser without Seller’s consent to any entity (i) in which Purchaser, Arel Capital or any of their principals own an economic interest and (ii) which is controlled by Purchaser, Arel Capital or any of their principals. A copy of any assignment of this Agreement permitted hereunder, together with an agreement of the assignee assuming all of the terms and conditions of this Agreement to be performed by Purchaser in form reasonably satisfactory to counsel for Seller, shall be delivered to the attorneys for Seller prior to the Closing, and in any event no such assignment shall relieve Purchaser from its obligations under this Agreement nor result in a delay in the Closing. In the event Purchaser assigns this Agreement as permitted hereunder, all representations and warranties and covenants and obligations of Purchaser hereunder shall apply with equal force to such assignee. For purposes of this Section 17.8 , the term control (including, with correlative meanings, the terms “controlled by” and “under common control with”) means the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of such entity, whether through ownership of voting stock, by contract or otherwise.

17.9          Interpretation .  This Agreement shall not be construed more strictly against one party than against the other merely by virtue of the fact that it may have been prepared by counsel for one of the parties, it being recognized that both Seller and Purchaser have contributed substantially and materially to the preparation of this Agreement.

17.10       Entire Agreement .   This Agreement and the Exhibits and Schedules attached hereto contain the final and entire agreement between the parties hereto with respect to the sale and purchase of the Property and are intended to be an integration of all prior negotiations and understandings. Purchaser, Seller and their respective agents shall not be bound by any terms, conditions, statements, warranties or representations, oral or written, not contained herein. No change or modifications to this Agreement shall be valid unless the same is in writing and signed by the parties hereto. Each party reserves the right to waive any of the terms or conditions of this Agreement which are for their respective benefit and to consummate the transactions contemplated by this Agreement in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement which have not been so waived. Any such waiver must be in writing and signed by the party benefited by the applicable provision.

17.11       Severability .  If any one or more of the provisions hereof shall for any reason be held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect, such invalidity, illegality or unenforceability shall not affect any other provision hereof, and this Agreement shall be construed as if such invalid, illegal or unenforceable provision had never been contained herein, unless and to the extent that the invalidation of any such term or provision materially alters the intent of the parties hereto.

17.12       Survival .  Except for those provisions of this Agreement which expressly provide that any obligation, representation, warranty or covenant contained therein shall survive the Closing or the termination of this Agreement (collectively, the Surviving Termination Obligations ), the provisions of this Agreement and the representations and warranties herein shall not survive after the conveyance of title and payment of the Balance of the Purchase Price.
 
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17.13         Exhibits .  Each of the Exhibits and Schedules attached hereto are incorporated herein by reference.

17.14       Limitation of Liability .  The obligations of Seller and Purchaser are intended to be binding only on Seller and Purchaser and each of such party’s assets (including, with respect to Purchaser, the Deposit), and shall not be personally binding upon, nor shall any resort be had to, any of the members, partners, officers, directors, shareholders, advisors, trustees, agents, or employees of Seller or Purchaser, or any of their respective affiliates or any of their respective properties.

17.15      Prevailing Party .  Should either party employ an attorney to enforce any of the provisions hereof (whether before or after Closing, and including any claims or actions involving amounts held in escrow and any claims for a breach of representation), the nonprevailing party in any final judgment agrees to pay the other party’s reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses in or out of litigation and, if in litigation, trial, appellate, bankruptcy or other proceedings, such fees and expenses expended or incurred in connection therewith, as determined by a court of competent jurisdiction. The provisions of this Section 17.15 shall survive Closing and/or any termination of this Agreement.

17.16      Real Estate Reporting Person .  Escrow Agent is hereby designated the “real estate reporting person” for purposes of Section 6045 of the Code and Treasury Regulation 1.6045-4 and any instructions or settlement statement prepared by Escrow Agent shall so provide. Upon the consummation of the transaction contemplated by this Agreement, Escrow Agent shall file a Form 1099 information return and send the statement to Seller as required under the aforementioned statute and regulation. Seller and Purchaser shall reasonably cooperate with Escrow Agent in connection with Escrow Agent’s duties as real estate reporting person.
 
17.17       No Recording .  Except in connection with an action for specific performance, neither this Agreement nor any memorandum or short form hereof shall be recorded or filed in any public land or other public records of any jurisdiction, by either party and any attempt to do so may be treated by the other party as a breach of this Agreement.

17.18       No Other Parties .   This Agreement is not intended, nor shall it be construed, to confer upon any person or entity, except the parties hereto and their respective heirs, successors and permitted assigns, any rights or remedies under or by reason of this Agreement.

17.19       Waiver of Trial by Jury .  The respective parties hereto shall and hereby do waive trial by jury in any action, proceeding or counterclaim brought by either of the parties hereto against the other on any matters whatsoever arising out of or in any way connected with this Agreement, or for the enforcement of any remedy under any statute, emergency or otherwise.
 
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17.20       Cooperation .   (a) Seller shall have the right to structure the sale of the Property as a forward or reverse exchange thereof for other real property of a like-kind to be designated by Seller (including the ability to assign this Agreement to an entity established in order to effectuate such exchange), with the result that the exchange shall qualify for non-recognition of gain or loss under Section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, in which case Purchaser shall execute any and all documents reasonably necessary to effect such exchange, as reasonably approved by Purchaser’s counsel, and otherwise assist and cooperate with Seller in effecting such exchange; provided that: (i) any costs and expenses incurred by Purchaser as a result of structuring such transaction as an exchange, as opposed to an outright sale, shall be borne by Seller; (ii) Seller shall indemnify and hold harmless Purchaser from and against any and all liabilities, costs, damages, claims or demands arising from the cooperation of Purchaser in effecting the exchange contemplated hereby; and (iii) such exchange shall not result in any delay in closing the transaction without Purchaser’s prior written consent. Seller, in its discretion, may adjourn the Closing Date for up to thirty (30) days in the aggregate, in order to effect such exchange.

(b)           Purchaser shall have the right to structure the sale of the Property as a forward or reverse exchange thereof for other real property of a like-kind to be designated by Purchaser (including the ability to assign this Agreement to an entity established in order to effectuate such exchange), with the result that the exchange shall qualify for non-recognition of gain or loss under Section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, in which case Seller shall execute any and all documents reasonably necessary to effect such exchange, as reasonably approved by Seller’s counsel, and otherwise assist and cooperate with Purchaser in effecting such exchange; provided that: (i) any costs and expenses incurred by Seller as a result of structuring such transaction as an exchange, as opposed to an outright sale, shall be borne by Purchaser; (ii) Purchaser shall indemnify and hold harmless Seller from and against any and all liabilities, costs, damages, claims or demands arising from the cooperation of Seller in effecting the exchange contemplated hereby; and (iii) such exchange shall not result in any delay in closing the transaction without Seller’s prior written consent.

[SIGNATURE PAGE TO FOLLOW]
 
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement on the date first written above.

 
SELLER:
     
 
THE DIME SAVINGS BANK OF WILLIAMSBURGH
     
 
By:
/s/ Michael Pucella
 
   
Name: Michael Pucella
   
Title: EVP & CAO
 
Signature Page – Purchase and Sale Agreement
 

 
PURCHASER:
     
  HAVEMEYER OWNER BB LLC
     
 
By:
/s/ Nicholas Silvers
 
 
Name: 
Nicholas Silvers
 
Title:
Authorized Signatory
     
  PURCHASER'S AFFILIATE
  (for the purposes of section 9.8 hereof):
     
  HAVEMEYER OWNER BB LLC
     
 
By:
/s/ Nicholas Silvers
 
  Name: 
Nicholas Silvers
 
Title:
Authorized Signatory
 
Signature Page – Purchase and Sale Agreement
 

The Escrow Agent hereby executes this Agreement for the sole purpose of acknowledging receipt of the Deposit and its responsibilities hereunder and to evidence its consent to serve as Escrow Agent in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.

 
ESCROW AGENT:
     
 
STEWART TITLE INSURANCE COMPANY
     
 
By:
/s/ Deborah M. Voytovich
 
Name: 
Deborah M. Voytovich
 
Title:
V.P. & Underwriting Counsel
 
Signature Page – Purchase and Sale Agreement
 
 


EXHIBIT 12.1

COMPUTATION OF RATIO OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES AND PREFERRED STOCK DIVIDENDS
(in thousands, except ratio of earnings to fixed charges)

The consolidated ratio of earnings to fixed charged and preferred stock dividends (“Ratio”) is a non-GAAP measure. The following table sets forth the Ratio for the periods shown. For purposes of computing the Ratios, earnings represent income before taxes, extraordinary items and the cumulative effect of accounting changes, plus fixed charges. Fixed charges represent total interest expense plus an estimate of the interest within rental expense, including and excluding interest on deposits. Currently, the Company has no shares of preferred stock outstanding and have not paid any dividends on preferred stock in the periods shown. Therefore, the ratio of earnings to combined fixed charges and preferred stock dividends is not different from the ratio of earnings to fixed charges.

  
For the year ended December 31,
  
2016
   
2015
   
2014
   
2013
   
2012
Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges (Including Deposits)
                     
Earnings:
                             
Income before income taxes
 
$
133,471
   
$
76,018
   
$
74,370
   
$
72,889
   
$
67,198
 
Add:  Fixed charges, net
   
53,732
     
47,454
     
49,503
     
48,128
     
87,121
 
Income before income taxes and fixed charges, net
   
187,203
     
123,472
     
123,873
     
121,017
     
154,319
 
Fixed charges
                                       
Interest expense
 
$
52,141
   
$
46,226
   
$
48,416
   
$
46,969
   
$
86,112
 
One-third of rental expense
   
1,591
     
1,228
     
1,087
     
1,159
     
1,009
 
Interest on unrecognized tax benefits
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Total fixed charges
 
$
53,732
   
$
47,454
   
$
49,503
   
$
48,128
   
$
87,121
 
Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges
   
3.48
x
   
2.60
x
   
2.50
x
   
2.51
x
   
1.77
x

Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges (Including Deposits)
 
Earnings:
                             
Income before income taxes
 
$
133,471
   
$
76,018
   
$
74,370
   
$
72,889
   
$
67,198
 
Add:  Fixed charges, net
   
21,358
     
24,449
     
29,912
     
28,201
     
64,333
 
Income before income taxes and fixed charges, net
   
154,829
     
100,467
     
104,282
     
101,090
     
131,531
 
Fixed charges
                                       
Interest expense
 
$
19,767
   
$
23,221
   
$
28,825
   
$
27,042
   
$
43,583
 
One-third of rental expense
   
1,591
     
1,228
     
1,087
     
1,159
     
1,009
 
Interest on unrecognized tax benefits
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Total fixed charges
 
$
21,358
   
$
24,449
   
$
29,912
   
$
28,201
   
$
44,592
 
Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges
 
7.25
x
   
4.11
x
   
3.49
x
   
3.58
x
   
2.95
x
 
 


EXHIBIT 23.1

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statement Nos. 333-207228 on Form S-3, and 333-153174 and 333-197277 on Form S-8 of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. and Subsidiaries of our report dated March 14, 2017, relating to the financial statements and effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, appearing in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

/s/ Crowe Horwath LLP
Crowe Horwath LLP

Livingston, New Jersey
March 15, 2017
 
 


EXHIBIT 31(i).1

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 17 CFR 240.13a-14(a) / 15d-14(a)
 
I, Kenneth J. Mahon, certify that:

1.    I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Dime Community Bancshares, 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 and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

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

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

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

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

5.   The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors:

a)
All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonable 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 15, 2017
 
   
/s/ KENNETH J. MAHON
 
   
Kenneth J. Mahon
 
President and Chief Executive Officer
 
 


EXHIBIT 31(i).2

PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL OFFICER CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 17 CFR 240.13a-14(a) / 15d-14(a)
 
I, Michael Pucella, certify that:

1.    I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Dime Community Bancshares, 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 and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

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

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

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

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

5.    The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors:

a)
All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonable 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 15, 2017
 
   
/s/ MICHAEL PUCELLA
   
   
Michael Pucella
 
Executive Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer (Principal Financial Officer) 
 
 


Exhibit 32.1

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

In connection with the Annual Report on Form 10-K (the "Report") for the period ended December 31, 2016 of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc., (the "Company") as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof, I, Kenneth J. Mahon, Chief Executive Officer of the Company, hereby certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

(1)
The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) 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 results of operations of the Company.

March 15, 2017
Date
   
     
By:
/s/ KENNETH J. MAHON
 
Kenneth J. Mahon
 
President and Chief Executive Officer
 
 
 


Exhibit 32.2

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

In connection with the Annual Report on Form 10-K (the "Report") for the period ended December 31, 2016 of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc., (the "Company") as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof, I, Michael Pucella, Chief Accounting Officer of the Company, hereby certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

(1)
The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) 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 results of operations of the Company.

March 15, 2017
Date
  
    
By:
/s/ MICHAEL PUCELLA
 
Michael Pucella
Executive Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer (Principal Financial Officer)