EX-99.1 2 a3q24earningsrelease.htm EX-99.1 Document

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SOUTHERN STATES
 BANCSHARES, INC.
615 Quintard Avenue / Anniston, AL 36201 / (256) 241-1092
Southern States Bancshares, Inc. Announces Third Quarter 2024 Financial Results
Third Quarter 2024 Performance and Operational Highlights
Net income of $7.4 million, or $0.76 per diluted share
Core net income(1) of $8.7 million, or $0.89 per diluted share(1)
Core pretax pre-provision net income(1) of $13.8 million
Net interest income of $24.2 million, an increase of $2.7 million from the prior quarter
Net interest margin (“NIM”) of 3.65%, up 9 basis points from the prior quarter
NIM of 3.66% on a fully-taxable equivalent basis (“NIM - FTE”)(1)
Return on average assets (“ROAA”) of 1.05%; return on average stockholders’ equity (“ROAE”) of 11.89%; and return on average tangible common equity (“ROATCE”)(1) of 13.35%
Core ROAA(1) of 1.24%; and core ROATCE(1) of 15.74%
Efficiency ratio of 52.79%; and core efficiency ratio of 46.96%
Linked-quarter loans grew 36.3% annualized; and legacy loans grew 10.3% annualized
Linked-quarter total deposits grew 44.8% annualized
Linked-quarter total deposits, excluding brokered deposits, grew 71.5% annualized; and legacy total deposits, excluding brokered deposits grew 9.6% annualized
(1) See "Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures" below for reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures to their most closely comparable GAAP financial measures.
ANNISTON, Ala., October 21, 2024 – Southern States Bancshares, Inc. (NASDAQ: SSBK) (“Southern States” or the “Company”), the holding company for Southern States Bank, an Alabama state-chartered commercial bank (the “Bank”), today reported net income of $7.4 million, or $0.76 diluted earnings per share, for the third quarter of 2024. This compares to net income of $8.2 million, or $0.90 diluted earnings per share, for the second quarter of 2024, and net income of $6.6 million, or $0.73 diluted earnings per share, for the third quarter of 2023. The Company reported core net income of $8.7 million, or $0.89 diluted core earnings per share, for the third quarter of 2024. This compares to core net income of $9.1 million, or $1.00 diluted core earnings per share, for the second quarter of 2024, and core net income of $9.6 million, or $1.06 diluted core earnings per share, for the third quarter of 2023 (see “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures”).





CEO Commentary
Mark Chambers, Chief Executive Officer and President of Southern States said, “The top highlight of our third quarter was the completion of the CBB Bancorp acquisition on August 1 as planned. I want to welcome our new colleagues who contributed to a seamless integration between two organizations that share a common culture. Our combination with Century Bank has strengthened our platform to drive loan and deposit growth across growing and attractive Georgia markets.”
“Net interest income for the third quarter increased more than 12.4% to $24.2 million for the quarter largely reflecting the contribution from Century Bank. Net interest margin also increased 9 basis points to 3.65% from 3.56% quarter-over-quarter, which further reflects Century Bank’s contribution.”
“Finally, we were pleased to be recognized in Piper Sandler’s Sm-All Stars: Class of 2024 for the third year in a row. The Sm-All Stars’ objective is to identify the top performing U.S. small-cap banks and thrifts based on growth, profitability, credit quality, and capital strength. Our objective is to run a highly efficient bank, consistently deliver the highest level of customer satisfaction and increase value for our shareholders.”

Net Interest Income and Net Interest Margin
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Three Months Ended
% Change September 30, 2024 vs.
September 30,
2024
June 30,
2024
September 30,
2023
June 30,
2024
September 30,
2023
(Dollars in thousands)
Average interest-earning assets$2,645,388 $2,440,425 $2,175,103 8.4 %21.6 %
Net interest income$24,246 $21,579 $20,731 12.4 %17.0 %
Net interest margin3.65 %3.56 %3.78 % bps(13) bps
Net interest income for the third quarter of 2024 was $24.2 million, an increase of 12.4% from $21.6 million in the second quarter of 2024. The increase was substantially due to the acquisition of Century Bank.

Relative to the third quarter of 2023, net interest income increased $3.5 million, or 17.0%. The increase was mainly driven by significant growth, partially as a result of the acquisition of Century Bank, which offset the decline in net interest margin.

Net interest margin for the third quarter of 2024 was 3.65%, compared to 3.56% for the second quarter of 2024. The increase was primarily due to a slight increase in the yield on interest-earning assets, coupled with a decrease in the cost of interest-bearing deposits. The acquisition of Century Bank had a positive impact and helped lift the margin for third quarter of 2024.

Relative to the third quarter of 2023, net interest margin decreased from 3.78%. The decrease was primarily the result of the increase in interest rates, which accelerated the cost of interest-bearing liabilities at a greater pace than the yield received on interest-earning assets. The acquisition of Century Bank resulted in a positive impact to the net interest margin, effectively helping to reduce the cost of interest-bearing liabilities.

















Noninterest Income
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Three Months Ended
% Change September 30, 2024 vs.
September 30,
2024
June 30,
2024
September 30,
2023
June 30,
2024
September 30,
2023
(Dollars in thousands)
Service charges on deposit accounts$532 $462 $442 15.2 %20.4 %
Swap (expense) fees
(9)453 325.0 %102.0 %
SBA/USDA fees179 58 74 208.6 %141.9 %
Mortgage origination fees112 92 158 21.7 %(29.1)%
Net gain (loss) on securities
75 20 (12)275.0 %725.0 %
Employee retention credit and related revenue (“ERC”)— — (5,100)N/AN/A
Other operating income868 732 1,091 18.6 %(20.4)%
   Total noninterest income$1,757 $1,368 $(2,894)28.4 %160.7 %
Noninterest income for the third quarter of 2024 was $1.8 million, an increase of 28.4% from $1.4 million in the second quarter of 2024. The acquisition of Century Bank on July 31, 2024 resulted in additional noninterest income during the third quarter of 2024. Apart from the acquisition, the increase was also due to increased SBA/USDA fees primarily resulting from the sales of loans during the third quarter of 2024, along with a larger realized net gain on securities during the third quarter of 2024 compared to the second quarter of 2023.

Relative to the third quarter of 2023, noninterest income increased 160.7% from a noninterest net expense of $2.9 million. The third quarter of 2023 included a $5.1 million payment to the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) for the return of the ERC, which was received during the second quarter of 2023. The IRS revised eligibility guidelines during the third quarter of 2023, and the Company applied for the Voluntary Disclosure Program and removed this from income and recorded a payable. The acquisition of Century Bank on July 31, 2024 resulted in additional noninterest income during the third quarter of 2024. The increase was partially offset by a decline in swap fees during the third quarter of 2024, substantially as a result of the Company not participating in any swap transactions.

Noninterest Expense
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Three Months Ended
% Change September 30, 2024 vs.
September 30,
2024
June 30,
2024
September 30,
2023
June 30,
2024
September 30,
2023
(Dollars in thousands)
Salaries and employee benefits$6,876 $6,112 $5,752 12.5 %19.5 %
Equipment and occupancy expenses814 667 718 22.0 %13.4 %
Data processing fees781 686 650 13.8 %20.2 %
Regulatory assessments414 375 322 10.4 %28.6 %
Professional fees related to ERC— — (1,243)N/AN/A
Merger-related expenses1,511 — — N/AN/A
Other operating expenses3,291 3,571 2,370 (7.8)%38.9 %
   Total noninterest expenses$13,687 $11,411 $8,569 19.9 %59.7 %
Noninterest expense for the third quarter of 2024 was $13.7 million, an increase of 19.9% from $11.4 million in the second quarter of 2024. The acquisition of Century Bank on July 31, 2024 resulted in merger-related expenses of $1.5 million, of which $961,000 was not deductible for taxes. Also there were additional noninterest expenses related to Century Bank during the third quarter of 2024, primarily in salaries and employee benefits. The acquisition also gave rise to a $106,000 increase in amortization expense associated with the core deposit intangible. Also included in the third quarter of 2024 was approximately $250,000 in expenses associated with calling brokered deposits and collection expenses related to a problem loan.




Relative to the third quarter of 2023, noninterest expense increased 59.7% from $8.6 million. The acquisition of Century Bank on July 31, 2024 resulted in merger-related expenses of $1.5 million, along with additional noninterest expense during the third quarter of 2024. Salaries and employee benefits increased as a result of the acquisition and from a legacy standpoint. The third quarter of 2023 included a $1.2 million refund of professional fees related to the aforementioned return of ERC.

Loans and Credit Quality
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Three Months Ended
% Change September 30, 2024 vs.
September 30,
2024
June 30,
2024
September 30,
2023
June 30,
2024
September 30,
2023
(Dollars in thousands)
Gross loans$2,205,747 $2,021,877 $1,779,846 9.1 %23.9 %
Unearned income(6,536)(6,443)(5,698)1.4 %14.7 %
Loans, net of unearned income (“Loans”)2,199,211 2,015,434 1,774,148 9.1 %24.0 %
Average loans, net of unearned (“Average loans”)$2,134,318 $1,987,533 $1,740,582 7.4 %22.6 %
Nonperforming loans (“NPL”)$7,868 $3,784 $1,082 107.9 %627.2 %
Provision for credit losses$2,583 $1,067 $773 142.1 %234.2 %
Allowance for credit losses (“ACL”)$28,061 $25,828 $22,181 8.6 %26.5 %
Net charge-offs (recoveries)$350 $383 $(23)(8.6)%1621.7 %
NPL to gross loans0.36 %0.19 %0.06 %
Net charge-offs (recoveries) to average loans(1)
0.07 %0.08 %(0.01)%
ACL to loans1.28 %1.28 %1.25 %
(1) Ratio is annualized.
Loans, net of unearned income, were $2.2 billion at September 30, 2024, up $183.8 million from June 30, 2024 and up $425.1 million from September 30, 2023. The acquisition of Century Bank resulted in additional loans of $131.7 million at September 30, 2024. Apart from the acquired loans, the linked-quarter increase in loans was primarily attributable to new business growth across our footprint.

Nonperforming loans totaled $7.9 million, or 0.36% of gross loans, at September 30, 2024, compared with $3.8 million, or 0.19% of gross loans, at June 30, 2024, and $1.1 million, or 0.06% of gross loans, at September 30, 2023. The $4.1 million net increase in nonperforming loans in the third quarter of 2024 was primarily attributable to a significant commercial and industrial loan that was added to nonaccrual status and partially offset by a commercial and industrial loan that was charged-off. The $6.8 million net increase in nonperforming loans from September 30, 2023, was primarily attributable to one significant commercial and industrial loan, another less significant commercial and industrial loan and one commercial real estate loan that were added to nonaccrual status. Significant collection efforts have been made on the large commercial and industrial loan and no loss is anticipated.

The Company recorded a provision for credit losses of $2.6 million for the third quarter of 2024, compared to $1.1 million for the second quarter of 2024. Provision in the third quarter of 2024 included a “Day 2” $1.7 million provision as a result of the acquisition as well as additional provisions based on growth.

Net charge-offs for the third quarter of 2024 were $350,000, or 0.07% of average loans on an annualized basis, compared to net charge-offs of $383,000, or 0.08% of average loans on an annualized basis, for the second quarter of 2024, and net recoveries of $23,000, or (0.01)% of average loans on an annualized basis, for the third quarter of 2023. The charge-offs recorded during the the second and third quarters of 2024 were substantially related to a purchased pool of consumer loans for which the borrower filed for bankruptcy. The loan was fully charged-off as of September 30, 2024.





The Company’s allowance for credit losses was 1.28% of total loans and 356.65% of nonperforming loans at September 30, 2024, compared with 1.28% of total loans and 682.56% of nonperforming loans at June 30, 2024. Allowance for credit losses on unfunded commitments was $1.4 million at September 30, 2024.

Deposits
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Three Months Ended
% Change September 30, 2024 vs.
September 30,
2024
June 30,
2024
September 30,
2023
June 30,
2024
September 30,
2023
(Dollars in thousands)
Noninterest-bearing deposits$546,282 $416,068 $418,125 31.3 %30.7 %
Interest-bearing deposits1,874,264 1,759,610 1,498,276 6.5 %25.1 %
   Total deposits$2,420,546 $2,175,678 $1,916,401 11.3 %26.3 %
Uninsured deposits$964,528 $645,283 $568,323 49.5 %69.7 %
Uninsured deposits to total deposits39.85 %29.66 %29.66 %
Noninterest deposits to total deposits22.57 %19.12 %21.82 %
Total deposits were $2.4 billion at September 30, 2024, up from $2.2 billion at June 30, 2024 and $1.9 billion at September 30, 2023. The $244.9 million increase in total deposits in the third quarter was due to an increase of $130.2 million in noninterest-bearing deposits and a $114.7 million increase in interest-bearing deposits. The acquisition of Century Bank resulted in additional deposits of $304.4 million at September 30, 2024, or $183.4 million in interest-bearing deposits, none of which were brokered deposits, and $121.0 million in noninterest-bearing deposits. Total brokered deposits were $194.2 million at September 30, 2024, compared to $288.3 million at June 30, 2024. The Company used cash from the acquisition of Century Bank to call $52.3 million of brokered deposits, while another $41.9 million matured and were repaid.

Capital
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September 30,
2024
June 30,
2024
September 30,
2023
CompanyBankCompanyBankCompanyBank
Tier 1 capital ratio to average assets8.64 %11.48 %8.72 %11.52 %8.70 %11.71 %
Risk-based capital ratios:
  Common equity tier 1 (“CET1”) capital ratio9.36 %12.43 %9.54 %12.61 %9.32 %12.55 %
  Tier 1 capital ratio9.36 %12.43 %9.54 %12.61 %9.32 %12.55 %
  Total capital ratio14.18 %13.59 %14.50 %13.77 %14.60 %13.67 %
As of September 30, 2024, total stockholders’ equity was $271.4 million, up from $230.6 million at June 30, 2024. The increase of $40.8 million was substantially due to the issuance of $31.5 million in common stock for the acquisition of Century Bank.













About Southern States Bancshares, Inc.
Headquartered in Anniston, Alabama, Southern States Bancshares, Inc. is a bank holding company that operates primarily through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Southern States Bank. The Bank is a full service community banking institution, which offers an array of deposit, loan and other banking-related products and services to businesses and individuals in its communities. The Bank operates 15 branches in Alabama and Georgia and two loan production offices in Atlanta.

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws, which reflect our current expectations and beliefs with respect to, among other things, future events and our financial performance. These forward-looking statements are not historical facts, and are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about our industry, management’s beliefs and certain assumptions made by management, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and beyond our control. This may be especially true given recent events and trends in the banking industry. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable as of the dates made, we cannot give any assurance that such expectations will prove correct and actual results may prove to be materially different from the results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements are set forth in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 under the section entitled “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” and “Risk Factors”. Accordingly, we caution you that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, assumptions and uncertainties that are difficult to predict.

These statements are often, but not always, made through the use of words or phrases such as “may,” “can,” “should,” “could,” “to be,” “predict,” “potential,” “believe,” “will likely result,” “expect,” “continue,” “will,” “likely,” “anticipate,” “seek,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “target,” “project,” “would” and “outlook,” or the negative version of those words or other similar words or phrases of a future or forward-looking nature. Forward-looking statements appear in a number of places in this press release and may include statements about our acquisition of Century Bank of Georgia, business strategy and prospects for growth, operations, ability to pay dividends, competition, regulation and general economic conditions.

Contact Information
Lynn JoyceMargaret Boyce
(205) 820-8065(310) 622-8247
ljoyce@ssbank.bankssbankir@finprofiles.com




SELECT FINANCIAL DATA
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
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Three Months EndedNine Months Ended
September 30,
2024
June 30,
2024
September 30,
2023
September 30,
2024
September 30,
2023
Results of Operations
Interest income$45,068 $41,007 $35,204 $124,811 $96,088 
Interest expense20,822 19,428 14,473 58,147 36,379 
Net interest income24,246 21,579 20,731 66,664 59,709 
Provision for credit losses2,583 1,067 773 4,885 3,511 
Net interest income after provision21,663 20,512 19,958 61,779 56,198 
Noninterest income1,757 1,368 (2,894)4,393 5,755 
Noninterest expense13,687 11,411 8,569 35,473 32,159 
Income tax expense2,380 2,271 1,866 7,029 6,738 
Net income$7,353 $8,198 $6,629 $23,670 $23,056 
Core net income(1)
$8,675 $9,058 $9,563 $25,862 $23,901 
Share and Per Share Data
Shares issued and outstanding9,882,350 8,908,130 8,834,168 9,882,350 8,834,168 
Weighted average shares outstanding:
  Basic9,608,868 8,957,608 8,846,018 9,161,622 8,791,007 
  Diluted9,725,884 9,070,568 9,040,687 9,297,778 9,016,603 
Earnings per share:
  Basic$0.76 $0.91 $0.75 $2.58 $2.62 
  Diluted0.76 0.90 0.73 2.54 2.56 
  Core - diluted(1)
0.89 1.00 1.06 2.78 2.65 
Book value per share27.46 25.88 22.86 27.46 22.86 
Tangible book value per share(1)
23.38 23.91 20.84 23.38 20.84 
Cash dividends per common share0.09 0.09 0.09 0.27 0.27 
Performance and Financial Ratios
ROAA1.05 %1.29 %1.15 %1.22 %1.41 %
ROAE11.89 %14.55 %12.96 %13.70 %15.85 %
Core ROAA(1)
1.24 %1.43 %1.66 %1.33 %1.47 %
ROATCE(1)
13.35 %15.79 %14.21 %15.05 %17.47 %
Core ROATCE(1)
15.74 %17.44 %20.50 %16.45 %18.11 %
NIM3.65 %3.56 %3.78 %3.60 %3.85 %
NIM - FTE(1)
3.66 %3.57 %3.79 %3.61 %3.87 %
Net interest spread2.66 %2.59 %2.84 %2.63 %3.00 %
Yield on loans7.21 %7.17 %6.86 %7.15 %6.62 %
Yield on interest-earning assets6.78 %6.76 %6.42 %6.74 %6.20 %
Cost of interest-bearing liabilities4.12 %4.17 %3.58 %4.11 %3.20 %
Cost of funds(2)
3.31 %3.41 %2.80 %3.33 %2.48 %
Cost of interest-bearing deposits4.03 %4.07 %3.43 %4.01 %3.02 %
Cost of total deposits3.19 %3.27 %2.63 %3.20 %2.29 %
Noninterest deposits to total deposits22.57 %19.12 %21.82 %22.57 %21.82 %
Core deposits to total deposits86.30 %81.78 %86.58 %86.30 %86.58 %
Uninsured deposits to total deposits39.85 %29.66 %29.66 %39.85 %29.66 %
Total loans to total deposits90.86 %92.63 %92.58 %90.86 %92.58 %
Efficiency ratio52.79 %49.78 %48.01 %49.98 %49.47 %
Core efficiency ratio(1)
46.96 %44.75 %42.79 %46.23 %47.06 %
(1) See "Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures" below for reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures to their most closely comparable GAAP financial measures.
(2) Includes total interest-bearing liabilities and noninterest deposits.



SELECT FINANCIAL DATA
(Dollars in thousands)
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Three Months EndedNine Months Ended
September 30,
2024
June 30,
2024
September 30,
2023
September 30,
2024
September 30,
2023
Financial Condition (ending)
Total loans$2,199,211 $2,015,434 $1,774,148 $2,199,211 $1,774,148 
Total securities217,692 204,131 189,496 217,692 189,496 
Total assets2,841,440 2,572,011 2,296,527 2,841,440 2,296,527 
Total noninterest-bearing deposits546,282 416,068 418,125 546,282 418,125 
Total core deposits(1)
2,088,993 1,779,253 1,659,291 2,088,993 1,659,291 
Total deposits2,420,546 2,175,678 1,916,401 2,420,546 1,916,401 
Total borrowings121,083 136,873 146,573 121,083 146,573 
Total liabilities2,570,070 2,341,430 2,094,603 2,570,070 2,094,603 
Total shareholders’ equity271,370 230,581 201,924 271,370 201,924 
Financial Condition (average)
Total loans$2,134,318 $1,987,533 $1,740,582 $2,013,157 $1,676,134 
Total securities223,750 210,678 201,830 214,494 197,005 
Total other interest-earning assets287,320 242,214 232,691 247,035 199,379 
Total interest-earning assets2,645,388 2,440,425 2,175,103 2,474,686 2,072,518 
Total assets2,777,215 2,553,010 2,282,217 2,593,175 2,180,851 
Total noninterest-bearing deposits490,450 420,885 448,616 442,667 442,149 
Total interest-bearing deposits1,874,861 1,729,682 1,472,024 1,746,420 1,395,529 
Total deposits2,365,311 2,150,567 1,920,640 2,189,087 1,837,678 
Total borrowings134,035 143,189 129,882 141,970 122,156 
Total interest-bearing liabilities2,008,896 1,872,871 1,601,906 1,888,390 1,517,685 
Total shareholders’ equity246,081 226,527 202,955 230,799 194,430 
Asset Quality
Nonperforming loans$7,868 $3,784 $1,082 $7,868 $1,082 
Other real estate owned (“OREO”)$33 $33 $2,903 $33 $2,903 
Nonperforming assets (“NPA”)$7,901 $3,817 $3,985 $7,901 $3,985 
Net charge-offs to average loans(2)
0.07 %0.08 %(0.01)%0.08 %0.02 %
Provision for credit losses to average loans(2)
0.48 %0.22 %0.18 %0.32 %0.28 %
ACL to loans1.28 %1.28 %1.25 %1.28 %1.25 %
ACL to gross loans1.27 %1.28 %1.25 %1.27 %1.25 %
ACL to NPL356.65 %682.56 %2050.00 %356.65 %2050.00 %
NPL to loans0.36 %0.19 %0.06 %0.36 %0.06 %
NPL to gross loans0.36 %0.19 %0.06 %0.36 %0.06 %
NPA to gross loans and OREO0.36 %0.19 %0.22 %0.36 %0.22 %
NPA to total assets0.28 %0.15 %0.17 %0.28 %0.17 %
Regulatory and Other Capital Ratios
Total shareholders’ equity to total assets9.55 %8.97 %8.79 %9.55 %8.79 %
Tangible common equity to tangible assets(3)
8.25 %8.34 %8.08 %8.25 %8.08 %
Tier 1 capital ratio to average assets8.64 %8.72 %8.70 %8.64 %8.70 %
Risk-based capital ratios:
  CET1 capital ratio9.36 %9.54 %9.32 %9.36 %9.32 %
  Tier 1 capital ratio9.36 %9.54 %9.32 %9.36 %9.32 %
  Total capital ratio14.18 %14.50 %14.60 %14.18 %14.60 %
(1) We define core deposits as total deposits excluding brokered deposits and time deposits greater than $250,000.
(2) Ratio is annualized.
(3) See "Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures" below for reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures to their most closely comparable GAAP financial measures.



    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
     (Dollars in thousands)
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September 30,
2024
June 30,
2024
December 31,
2023
September 30,
2023
(Unaudited)(Unaudited)(Audited)(Unaudited)
Assets
Cash and due from banks$24,225 $21,598 $19,710 $31,047 
Interest-bearing deposits in banks182,559 140,440 134,846 103,646 
Federal funds sold71,072 76,334 96,095 81,487 
Total cash and cash equivalents277,856 238,372 250,651 216,180 
Securities available for sale, at fair value198,076 184,510 179,000 169,859 
Securities held to maturity, at amortized cost19,616 19,621 19,632 19,637 
Other equity securities, at fair value3,733 3,658 3,649 3,654 
Restricted equity securities, at cost4,418 4,633 5,684 4,971 
Loans held for sale415 1,716 450 1,799 
Loans, net of unearned income2,199,211 2,015,434 1,884,508 1,774,148 
Less allowance for credit losses28,061 25,828 24,378 22,181 
Loans, net2,171,150 1,989,606 1,860,130 1,751,967 
Premises and equipment, net32,319 26,192 26,426 26,694 
Accrued interest receivable10,114 9,654 8,711 8,321 
Bank owned life insurance39,159 33,000 29,884 29,697 
Annuities16,843 15,918 15,036 15,266 
Foreclosed assets33 33 33 2,903 
Goodwill30,980 16,862 16,862 16,862 
Core deposit intangible9,338 735 899 981 
Other assets27,390 27,501 29,616 27,736 
Total assets$2,841,440 $2,572,011 $2,446,663 $2,296,527 
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity
Liabilities:
Deposits:
Noninterest-bearing$546,282 $416,068 $437,959 $418,125 
Interest-bearing1,874,264 1,759,610 1,580,230 1,498,276 
Total deposits2,420,546 2,175,678 2,018,189 1,916,401 
Other borrowings7,976 8,000 26,994 4,991 
FHLB advances22,000 42,000 70,000 55,000 
Subordinated notes91,107 86,873 86,679 86,582 
Accrued interest payable2,214 2,024 1,519 1,280 
Other liabilities26,227 26,855 28,318 30,349 
Total liabilities2,570,070 2,341,430 2,231,699 2,094,603 
Stockholders' equity:
Common stock49,684 44,813 44,479 44,307 
Capital surplus106,046 79,248 78,361 77,671 
Retained earnings123,783 117,233 102,523 94,429 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(5,866)(8,333)(8,379)(13,126)
Unvested restricted stock(723)(826)(466)(580)
Vested restricted stock units(1,554)(1,554)(1,554)(777)
Total stockholders' equity271,370 230,581 214,964 201,924 
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity$2,841,440 $2,572,011 $2,446,663 $2,296,527 



    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
   (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)
logo.jpg
Three Months EndedNine Months Ended
September 30,
2024
June 30,
2024
September 30,
2023
September 30,
2024
September 30,
2023
(Unaudited)(Unaudited)(Unaudited)(Unaudited)(Unaudited)
Interest income:
Loans, including fees$38,690 $35,421 $30,084 $107,739 $83,049 
Taxable securities2,205 2,039 1,796 6,225 4,819 
Nontaxable securities243 231 227 704 747 
Other interest and dividends3,930 3,316 3,097 10,143 7,473 
Total interest income45,068 41,007 35,204 124,811 96,088 
Interest expense:
Deposits18,990 17,511 12,732 52,407 31,498 
Other borrowings1,832 1,917 1,741 5,740 4,881 
Total interest expense20,822 19,428 14,473 58,147 36,379 
Net interest income24,246 21,579 20,731 66,664 59,709 
Provision for credit losses2,583 1,067 773 4,885 3,511 
Net interest income after provision for credit losses21,663 20,512 19,958 61,779 56,198 
Noninterest income:
Service charges on deposit accounts532 462 442 1,458 1,348 
Swap (expenses) fees
(9)453 10 622 
SBA/USDA fees179 58 74 302 274 
Mortgage origination fees112 92 158 300 446 
Net gain (loss) on securities
75 20 (12)83 457 
Employee retention credit and related revenue— — (5,100)— — 
Other operating income868 732 1,091 2,240 2,608 
Total noninterest income1,757 1,368 (2,894)4,393 5,755 
Noninterest expenses:
Salaries and employee benefits6,876 6,112 5,752 19,219 19,926 
Equipment and occupancy expenses814 667 718 2,170 2,095 
Data processing fees781 686 650 2,110 1,889 
Regulatory assessments414 375 322 1,149 844 
     Professional fees related to ERC— — (1,243)— — 
     Merger-related expenses1,511 — — 1,511 — 
     Other operating expenses3,291 3,571 2,370 9,314 7,405 
Total noninterest expenses13,687 11,411 8,569 35,473 32,159 
Income before income taxes9,733 10,469 8,495 30,699 29,794 
Income tax expense2,380 2,271 1,866 7,029 6,738 
Net income$7,353 $8,198 $6,629 $23,670 $23,056 
Basic earnings per share$0.76 $0.91 $0.75 $2.58 $2.62 
Diluted earnings per share$0.76 $0.90 $0.73 $2.54 $2.56 




AVERAGE BALANCE SHEET AND NET INTEREST MARGIN
(Dollars in thousands)
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Three Months Ended
September 30,
2024
June 30,
2024
September 30,
2023
Average
Balance
InterestYield/RateAverage
Balance
InterestYield/RateAverage
Balance
InterestYield/Rate
Assets:
Interest-earning assets:
Loans, net of unearned income(1)
$2,134,318 $38,690 7.21 %$1,987,533 $35,421 7.17 %$1,740,582 $30,084 6.86 %
Taxable securities177,164 2,205 4.95 %165,141 2,039 4.97 %156,364 1,796 4.56 %
Nontaxable securities46,586 243 2.08 %45,537 231 2.04 %45,466 227 1.98 %
Other interest-earnings assets287,320 3,930 5.44 %242,214 3,316 5.51 %232,691 3,097 5.28 %
Total interest-earning assets$2,645,388 $45,068 6.78 %$2,440,425 $41,007 6.76 %$2,175,103 $35,204 6.42 %
Allowance for credit losses(27,253)(25,332)(21,606)
Noninterest-earning assets159,080 137,917 128,720 
Total Assets$2,777,215 $2,553,010 $2,282,217 
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity:
Interest-bearing liabilities:
Interest-bearing transaction accounts95,040 30 0.13 %85,976 21 0.10 %88,668 20 0.09 %
Savings and money market accounts1,042,661 10,264 3.92 %929,930 9,229 3.99 %867,066 7,767 3.55 %
Time deposits737,160 8,696 4.69 %713,776 8,261 4.65 %516,290 4,945 3.80 %
FHLB advances36,130 455 5.01 %48,374 596 4.96 %43,261 514 4.72 %
Other borrowings97,905 1,377 5.59 %94,815 1,321 5.60 %86,621 1,227 5.62 %
Total interest-bearing liabilities$2,008,896 $20,822 4.12 %$1,872,871 $19,428 4.17 %$1,601,906 $14,473 3.58 %
Noninterest-bearing liabilities:
Noninterest-bearing deposits$490,450 $420,885 $448,616 
Other liabilities31,788 32,727 28,740 
Total noninterest-bearing liabilities$522,238 $453,612 $477,356 
Stockholders’ Equity246,081 226,527 202,955 
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity$2,777,215 $2,553,010 $2,282,217 
Net interest income$24,246 $21,579 $20,731 
Net interest spread(2)
2.66 %2.59 %2.84 %
Net interest margin(3)
3.65 %3.56 %3.78 %
Net interest margin - FTE(4)(5)
3.66 %3.57 %3.79 %
Cost of funds(6)
3.31 %3.41 %2.80 %
Cost of interest-bearing deposits4.03 %4.07 %3.43 %
Cost of total deposits3.19 %3.27 %2.63 %
(1)Includes nonaccrual loans.
(2)Net interest spread is the difference between interest rates earned on interest-earning assets and interest rates paid on interest-bearing liabilities.
(3)Net interest margin is a ratio of net interest income to average interest-earning assets for the same period.
(4)Net interest margin - FTE is a ratio of fully-taxable equivalent net interest income to average interest-earning assets for the same period. It assumes a 24.0% tax rate.
(5)Refer to “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures”.
(6)Includes total interest-bearing liabilities and noninterest deposits.






AVERAGE BALANCE SHEET AND NET INTEREST MARGIN
(Dollars in thousands)
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Nine Months Ended
September 30,
2024
September 30,
2023
Average
Balance
InterestYield/RateAverage
Balance
InterestYield/Rate
Assets:
Interest-earning assets:
Loans, net of unearned income(1)
$2,013,157 $107,739 7.15 %$1,676,134 $83,049 6.62 %
Taxable securities168,661 6,225 4.93 %149,058 4,819 4.32 %
Nontaxable securities45,833 704 2.05 %47,947 747 2.08 %
Other interest-earnings assets247,035 10,143 5.48 %199,379 7,473 5.01 %
Total interest-earning assets$2,474,686 $124,811 6.74 %$2,072,518 $96,088 6.20 %
Allowance for credit losses(25,638)(20,750)
Noninterest-earning assets144,127 129,083 
Total Assets$2,593,175 $2,180,851 
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity:
Interest-bearing liabilities:
Interest-bearing transaction accounts88,980 78 0.12 %91,602 59 0.09 %
Savings and money market accounts958,625 28,296 3.94 %839,827 19,679 3.13 %
Time deposits698,815 24,033 4.59 %464,100 11,760 3.39 %
FHLB advances45,840 1,706 4.97 %35,703 1,202 4.50 %
Other borrowings96,130 4,034 5.60 %86,453 3,679 5.69 %
Total interest-bearing liabilities$1,888,390 $58,147 4.11 %$1,517,685 $36,379 3.20 %
Noninterest-bearing liabilities:
Noninterest-bearing deposits$442,667 $442,149 
Other liabilities31,319 26,587 
Total noninterest-bearing liabilities$473,986 $468,736 
Stockholders’ Equity230,799 194,430 
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity$2,593,175 $2,180,851 
Net interest income$66,664 $59,709 
Net interest spread(2)
2.63 %3.00 %
Net interest margin(3)
3.60 %3.85 %
Net interest margin - FTE(4)(5)
3.61 %3.87 %
Cost of funds(6)
3.33 %2.48 %
Cost of interest-bearing deposits4.01 %3.02 %
Cost of total deposits3.20 %2.29 %
(1)Includes nonaccrual loans.
(2)Net interest spread is the difference between interest rates earned on interest-earning assets and interest rates paid on interest-bearing liabilities.
(3)Net interest margin is a ratio of net interest income to average interest-earning assets for the same period.
(4)Net interest margin - FTE is a ratio of fully-taxable equivalent net interest income to average interest-earning assets for the same period. It assumes a 24.0% tax rate.
(5)Refer to “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures”.
(6)Includes total interest-bearing liabilities and noninterest deposits.








LOAN COMPOSITION
(Dollars in thousands)
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September 30,
2024
June 30,
2024
December 31,
2023
September 30,
2023
Amount% of grossAmount% of grossAmount% of grossAmount% of gross
Real estate mortgages:
Construction and development$245,275 11.1 %$242,573 12.0 %$242,960 12.9 %$229,188 12.9 %
Residential293,150 13.3 %249,498 12.3 %224,603 11.9 %224,499 12.6 %
Commercial1,344,554 61.0 %1,222,739 60.5 %1,144,867 60.5 %1,049,545 59.0 %
Commercial and industrial310,540 14.1 %297,501 14.7 %269,961 14.3 %268,283 15.0 %
Consumer and other12,228 0.5 %9,566 0.5 %8,286 0.4 %8,331 0.5 %
   Gross loans2,205,747 100.0 %2,021,877 100.0 %1,890,677 100.0 %1,779,846 100.0 %
Unearned income(6,536)(6,443)(6,169)(5,698)
   Loans, net of unearned income2,199,211 2,015,434 1,884,508 1,774,148 
Allowance for credit losses(28,061)(25,828)(24,378)(22,181)
     Loans, net$2,171,150 $1,989,606 $1,860,130 $1,751,967 


DEPOSIT COMPOSITION
(Dollars in thousands)
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September 30,
2024
June 30,
2024
December 31,
2023
September 30,
2023
Amount% of totalAmount% of totalAmount% of totalAmount% of total
Noninterest-bearing transaction$546,282 22.5 %$416,068 19.1 %$437,959 21.7 %$418,125 21.8 %
Interest-bearing transaction1,124,706 46.5 %1,006,687 46.3 %946,347 46.9 %934,383 48.8 %
Savings53,565 2.2 %32,527 1.5 %35,412 1.7 %38,518 2.0 %
Time deposits, $250,000 and under558,600 23.1 %612,299 28.1 %500,406 24.8 %436,613 22.8 %
Time deposits, over $250,000137,393 5.7 %108,097 5.0 %98,065 4.9 %88,762 4.6 %
     Total deposits$2,420,546 100.0 %$2,175,678 100.0 %$2,018,189 100.0 %$1,916,401 100.0 %




Nonperforming Assets
(Dollars in thousands)
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September 30,
2024
June 30,
2024
December 31,
2023
September 30,
2023
Nonaccrual loans$7,803 $3,784 $1,017 $1,082 
Past due loans 90 days or more and still accruing interest65 — 160 — 
Total nonperforming loans7,868 3,784 1,177 1,082 
OREO33 33 33 2,903 
Total nonperforming assets$7,901 $3,817 $1,210 $3,985 
Financial difficulty modification loans – nonaccrual(1)
622 647 907 970 
Financial difficulty modification loans – accruing1,071 1,093 1,095 1,052 
Financial difficulty modification loans$1,693 $1,740 $2,002 $2,022 
Allowance for credit losses$28,061 $25,828 $24,378 $22,181 
Loans, net of unearned income at the end of the period$2,199,211 $2,015,434 $1,884,508 $1,774,148 
Gross loans outstanding at the end of period$2,205,747 $2,021,877 $1,890,677 $1,779,846 
Total assets$2,841,440 $2,572,011 $2,446,663 $2,296,527 
Allowance for credit losses to nonperforming loans356.65 %682.56 %2071.20 %2050.00 %
Nonperforming loans to loans, net of unearned income0.36 %0.19 %0.06 %0.06 %
Nonperforming loans to gross loans0.36 %0.19 %0.06 %0.06 %
Nonperforming assets to gross loans and OREO0.36 %0.19 %0.06 %0.22 %
Nonperforming assets to total assets0.28 %0.15 %0.05 %0.17 %
Nonaccrual loans by category:
Real estate mortgages:
Construction & Development$— $— $— $— 
Residential Mortgages522 393 252 289 
Commercial Real Estate Mortgages2,155 2,182 765 785 
Commercial & Industrial5,126 1,209 — 
Consumer and other— — — — 
         Total$7,803 $3,784 $1,017 $1,082 

(1) Financial difficulty modifications loans are excluded from nonperforming loans unless they otherwise meet the definition of nonaccrual loans or are more than 90 days past due.












Allowance for Credit Losses
(Dollars in thousands)
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Three Months EndedNine Months Ended
September 30,
2024
June 30,
2024
September 30,
2023
September 30,
2024
September 30, 2023
Average loans, net of unearned income$2,134,318 $1,987,533 $1,740,582 $2,013,157 $1,676,134 
Loans, net of unearned income2,199,211 2,015,434 1,774,148 2,199,211 1,774,148 
Gross loans2,205,747 2,021,877 1,779,846 2,205,747 1,779,846 
Allowance for credit losses at beginning of the period25,828 25,144 21,385 24,378 20,156 
Impact of adoption of ASC 326— — — — (1,285)
Charge-offs:
Construction and development— — — 
Residential— — — 11 — 
Commercial119 11 — 157 — 
Commercial and industrial384 384 — 1,210 262 
Consumer and other— 10 — 25 
Total charge-offs503 405 1,403 271 
Recoveries:
Construction and development— — — — — 
Residential13 10 27 38 
Commercial— — — — — 
Commercial and industrial139 15 — 171 14 
Consumer and other16 18 
Total recoveries153 22 26 201 70 
Net charge-offs (recoveries)
$350 $383 $(23)$1,202 $201 
Provision for credit losses$2,583 $1,067 $773 $4,885 $3,511 
Balance at end of the period$28,061 $25,828 $22,181 $28,061 $22,181 
Allowance for credit losses on unfunded commitments at beginning of the period$1,206 $1,288 $1,495 $1,239 $— 
Impact of adoption of ASC 326— — — — 1,285 
Day 2 impact from acquisition199 — — 199 — 
(Credit) provision for credit losses on unfunded commitments
— (82)29 (33)239 
Balance at the end of the period$1,405 $1,206 $1,524 $1,405 $1,524 
Allowance to loans, net of unearned income1.28 %1.28 %1.25 %1.28 %1.25 %
Allowance to gross loans1.27 %1.28 %1.25 %1.27 %1.25 %
Net charge-offs (recoveries) to average loans, net of unearned income(1)
0.07 %0.08 %(0.01)%0.08 %0.02 %
Provision for credit losses to average loans, net of unearned income(1)
0.48 %0.22 %0.18 %0.32 %0.28 %
(1) Ratio is annualized.






Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures
Noninterest Expense
In addition to reporting GAAP results, the Company reports non-GAAP financial measures in this earnings release and other disclosures. Our management believes that these non-GAAP financial measures and the information they provide are useful to investors since these measures permit investors to view our performance using the same tools that our management uses to evaluate our performance. While we believe that these non-GAAP financial measures are useful in evaluating our performance, this information should be considered as supplemental in nature and not as a substitute for or superior to the related financial information prepared in accordance with GAAP. Additionally, these non-GAAP financial measures may differ from similar measures presented by other companies.

The following table provides a reconciliation of the non-GAAP financial measures to their most directly comparable financial measure presented in accordance with GAAP.


















































Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
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Three Months EndedNine Months Ended
September 30,
2024
June 30,
2024
September 30,
2023
September 30,
2024
September 30,
2023
Net income$7,353 $8,198 $6,629 $23,670 $23,056 
Add: One-time retirement related expenses— — — — 1,571 
Add: Professional fees related to ERC— — (1,243)— — 
Add: Wire fraud loss— 1,155 — 1,155 — 
Add: Merger-related expenses1,511 — — 1,511 — 
Add: Net OREO gain
— (3)(9)(3)(2)
Less: Employee retention related revenue— — (5,100)— — 
Less: Net gain (loss) on securities75 20 (12)83 457 
Less: Tax effect114 272 926 388 267 
Core net income$8,675 $9,058 $9,563 $25,862 $23,901 
Average assets$2,777,215 $2,553,010 $2,282,217 $2,593,175 $2,180,851 
Core return on average assets1.24 %1.43 %1.66 %1.33 %1.47 %
Net income$7,353 $8,198 $6,629 $23,670 $23,056 
Add: One-time retirement related expenses— — — — 1,571 
Add: Professional fees related to ERC— — (1,243)— — 
Add: Wire fraud loss— 1,155 — 1,155 — 
Add: Merger-related expenses1,511 — — 1,511 — 
Add: Net OREO gain— (3)(9)(3)(2)
Add: Provision2,583 1,067 773 4,885 3,511 
Less: Employee retention related revenue— — (5,100)— — 
Less: Net gain (loss) on securities
75 20 (12)83 457 
Add: Income taxes2,380 2,271 1,866 7,029 6,738 
Pretax pre-provision core net income$13,752 $12,668 $13,128 $38,164 $34,417 
Average assets$2,777,215 $2,553,010 $2,282,217 $2,593,175 $2,180,851 
Pretax pre-provision core return on average assets1.97 %2.00 %2.28 %1.97 %2.11 %
Net interest income$24,246 $21,579 $20,731 $66,664 $59,709 
Add: Fully-taxable equivalent adjustments(1)
75 73 70 222 213 
Net interest income - FTE$24,321 $21,652 $20,801 $66,886 $59,922 
Net interest margin3.65 %3.56 %3.78 %3.60 %3.85 %
Effect of fully-taxable equivalent adjustments(1)
0.01 %0.01 %0.01 %0.01 %0.02 %
Net interest margin - FTE3.66 %3.57 %3.79 %3.61 %3.87 %
Total stockholders' equity$271,370 $230,581 $201,924 $271,370 $201,924 
Less: Intangible assets40,318 17,597 17,843 40,318 17,843 
Tangible common equity$231,052 $212,984 $184,081 $231,052 $184,081 
(1) Assumes a 24.0% tax rate.



Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
logo.jpg
Three Months EndedNine Months Ended
September 30,
2024
June 30,
2024
September 30,
2023
September 30,
2024
September 30,
2023
Core net income$8,675 $9,058 $9,563 $25,862 $23,901 
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding9,725,884 9,070,568 9,040,687 9,297,778 9,016,603 
Diluted core earnings per share$0.89 $1.00 $1.06 $2.78 $2.65 
Common shares outstanding at year or period end9,882,350 8,908,130 8,834,168 9,882,350 8,834,168 
Tangible book value per share$23.38 $23.91 $20.84 $23.38 $20.84 
Total assets at end of period$2,841,440 $2,572,011 $2,296,527 $2,841,440 $2,296,527 
Less: Intangible assets40,318 17,597 17,843 40,318 17,843 
Adjusted assets at end of period$2,801,122 $2,554,414 $2,278,684 $2,801,122 $2,278,684 
Tangible common equity to tangible assets8.25 %8.34 %8.08 %8.25 %8.08 %
Total average shareholders equity$246,081 $226,527 $202,955 $230,799 $194,430 
Less: Average intangible assets26,884 17,646 17,893 20,776 17,973 
Average tangible common equity$219,197 $208,881 $185,062 $210,023 $176,457 
Net income to common shareholders$7,353 $8,198 $6,629 $23,670 $23,056 
Return on average tangible common equity13.35 %15.79 %14.21 %15.05 %17.47 %
Average tangible common equity$219,197 $208,881 $185,062 $210,023 $176,457 
Core net income$8,675 $9,058 $9,563 $25,862 $23,901 
Core return on average tangible common equity15.74 %17.44 %20.50 %16.45 %18.11 %
Net interest income$24,246 $21,579 $20,731 $66,664 $59,709 
Add: Noninterest income1,757 1,368 (2,894)4,393 5,755 
Less: Employee retention related revenue— — (5,100)— — 
Less: Net gain (loss) on securities75 20 (12)83 457 
Operating revenue$25,928 $22,927 $22,949 $70,974 $65,007 
Expenses:
Total noninterest expense$13,687 $11,411 $8,569 $35,473 $32,159 
Less: One-time retirement related expenses— — — — 1,571 
Less: Professional fees related to ERC— — (1,243)— — 
Less: Wire fraud loss— 1,155 — 1,155 — 
Less: Merger-related expenses1,511 — — 1,511 — 
Less: Net OREO gain— (3)(9)(3)(2)
Adjusted noninterest expenses$12,176 $10,259 $9,821 $32,810 $30,590 
Core efficiency ratio46.96 %44.75 %42.79 %46.23 %47.06 %