Form 10-QSB
Table of Contents

 

United States Securities and Exchange Commission

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-QSB

 

(Mark One)

 

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

 

For the quarterly period ended June 30, 2004

 

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

 

For the transition period from                  to                 

 

Commission file number: 0-25465

 

CORNERSTONE BANCORP, INC./CT

(Exact Name of small business issuer as specified in its charter)

 

Connecticut   06-1524044
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)   (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

 

550 Summer St., Stamford, Connecticut 06901

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

(203) 356-0111

(Issuer’s telephone number)

 

Check whether the issuer (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the past 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes x No ¨

 

The number of shares outstanding of the issuer’s common stock as of July 28, 2004 was 1,254,386.

 

Transitional Small Business Disclosure Format (check one): Yes ¨ No x

 


 


Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

     PAGE

PART I – Financial Information     

Item 1. Financial Statements (Unaudited)

    

Consolidated Statements of Condition June 30, 2004 and December 31, 2003

   1

Consolidated Statements of Income Three Months Ended June 30, 2004 and 2003

   2

Consolidated Statements of Income Six Months Ended June 30, 2004 and 2003

   3

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity Six Months Ended June 30, 2004 and 2003

   4

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Six Months Ended June 30, 2004 and 2003

   5

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

   6 - 8

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis or Plan of Operation

   9 - 20

Item 3. Controls and Procedures

   21
PART II – Other Information     

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

   None

Item 2. Changes in Securities and Use of Proceeds

   None

Item 3. Defaults upon Senior Securities

   None

Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

   21

Item 5. Other Information

   None

Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

   22

Signatures

   23

 


Table of Contents

Item 1.    Financial Statements

 

 

CORNERSTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CONDITION

(In thousands, except per share data)

 

    

June 30,
2004

(unaudited)


   

December 31,

2003


 
Assets                 

Cash and cash equivalents:

                

Cash and due from banks

   $ 15,406     $ 15,829  

Federal funds sold

     17,700       47,000  
    


 


Total cash and cash equivalents

     33,106       62,829  
    


 


Securities, including collateral of $6,459 in 2004 and $4,587 in 2003 for borrowings under securities repurchase agreements:

                

Available for sale, at fair value

     4,219       11,079  

Held to maturity, at amortized cost (fair value of $52,298 in 2004 and $21,019 in 2003)

     52,424       20,510  
    


 


Total securities

     56,643       31,589  
    


 


Loans held for sale

     720       779  

Loans, net of allowance for loan losses of $2,302 at June 30, 2004 and $2,387 at December 31, 2003

     128,296       119,089  

Accrued interest receivable

     1,017       956  

Federal Home Loan Bank stock, at cost

     613       613  

Premises and equipment

     3,309       3,103  

Bank-owned life insurance

     4,762       5,340  

Deferred income taxes

     960       941  

Other assets

     695       628  
    


 


Total assets

   $ 230,121     $ 225,867  
    


 


Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity                 

Liabilities:

                

Deposits:

                

Demand (non-interest bearing)

   $ 49,715     $ 44,142  

Money market demand and NOW

     42,070       37,233  

Regular, club and preferred rate savings

     44,427       42,171  

Time

     60,169       75,172  
    


 


Total deposits

     196,381       198,718  

Borrowings under securities repurchase agreements

     6,421       4,540  

Accrued interest payable

     77       108  

Securities purchased, not yet settled

     3,030       —    

Other liabilities

     2,486       2,014  
    


 


Total liabilities

     208,395       205,380  
    


 


Stockholders’ equity

                

Common stock, par value $0.01 per share. Authorized 5,000,000 shares; issued 1,293,797 shares in 2004 and 1,289,735 shares in 2003; outstanding 1,249,386 shares in 2004 and 1,237,674 shares in 2003

     13       13  

Additional paid-in capital

     14,448       14,298  

Retained earnings

     8,449       7,253  

Treasury stock, at cost (44,411 shares in 2004 and 52,061 shares in 2003)

     (465 )     (545 )

Unearned restricted stock awards

     (713 )     (558 )

Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of taxes

     (6 )     26  
    


 


Total stockholders’ equity

     21,726       20,487  
    


 


Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

   $ 230,121     $ 225,867  
    


 


 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

1


Table of Contents

CORNERSTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2004 AND 2003

(In thousands, except per share data)

(unaudited)

 

    

Three Months Ended

June 30,


     2004

    2003

Interest income:

              

Loans

   $ 2,218     $ 2,189

Securities

     375       432

Federal funds sold

     69       135
    


 

Total interest income

     2,662       2,756
    


 

Interest expense:

              

Deposits

     558       754

Borrowings

     18       21
    


 

Total interest expense

     576       775
    


 

Net interest income

     2,086       1,981

Provision for loan losses

     (39 )     70
    


 

Net interest income after provision for loan losses

     2,125       1,911
    


 

Non-interest income:

              

Gain on sale of loans and loan servicing, net

     90       306

Deposit service charges

     128       113

Bank-owned life insurance

     48       49

Other

     211       199
    


 

Total non-interest income

     477       667
    


 

Non-interest expense:

              

Salaries and employee benefits

     1,093       1,030

Occupancy

     177       180

Furniture and equipment

     114       101

Data processing

     119       140

Professional fees

     94       83

Advertising and promotion

     42       41

Other

     281       325
    


 

Total non-interest expense

     1,920       1,900
    


 

Income before income tax expense

     682       678

Income tax expense

     260       261
    


 

Net income

   $ 422     $ 417
    


 

Earnings per common share (Note B):

              

Basic

   $ 0.35     $ 0.35

Diluted

     0.33       0.33
    


 

Weighted average common shares (Note B):

              

Basic

     1,208,597       1,200,335

Diluted

     1,290,610       1,249,422

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

2


Table of Contents

CORNERSTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2004 AND 2003

(In thousands, except per share data)

(unaudited)

 

    

Six Months Ended

June 30,


     2004

    2003

Interest income:

              

Loans

   $ 4,556     $ 4,515

Securities

     693       859

Federal funds sold

     166       233
    


 

Total interest income

     5,415       5,607
    


 

Interest expense:

              

Deposits

     1,191       1,497

Borrowings

     32       40
    


 

Total interest expense

     1,223       1,537
    


 

Net interest income

     4,192       4,070

Provision for loan losses

     (550 )     175
    


 

Net interest income after provision for loan losses

     4,742       3,895
    


 

Non-interest income:

              

Gain on sale of loans and loan servicing, net

     289       594

Deposit service charges

     227       231

Bank-owned life insurance

     88       101

Other

     855       325
    


 

Total non-interest income

     1,459       1,251
    


 

Non-interest expense:

              

Salaries and employee benefits

     2,443       2,133

Occupancy

     366       364

Furniture and equipment

     228       203

Data processing

     252       283

Professional fees

     188       176

Advertising and promotion

     86       87

Other

     521       563
    


 

Total non-interest expense

     4,084       3,809
    


 

Income before income tax expense

     2,117       1,337

Income tax expense

     640       508
    


 

Net income

   $ 1,477     $ 829
    


 

Earnings per common share (Note B):

              

Basic

   $ 1.22     $ 0.69

Diluted

     1.15       0.67
    


 

Weighted average common shares (Note B):

              

Basic

   $ 1,207,723     $ 1,198,627

Diluted

     1,283,797       1,246,126
    


 

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

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Table of Contents

CORNERSTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2004 AND 2003

(In thousands, except per share data)

(unaudited)

 

    

Common

Stock


  

Additional

Paid-in
Capital


  

Retained

Earnings


   

Treasury

Stock


   

Unearned

Restricted

Stock
Awards


   

Accumulated

Other

Comprehensive

Income


   

Total
Stockholders’

Equity


 

Balances at January 1, 2003

   $ 13    $ 13,954    $ 6,205     $ (749 )   $ (183 )   $ 98     $ 19,338  

Comprehensive income:

                                                      

Net income

     —        —        829       —         —         —         829  

Other comprehensive loss

     —        —        —         —         —         (22 )     (22 )

Total comprehensive income

                                                   807  

Cash dividends declared ($0.225 per share)

     —        —        (275 )     —         —         —         (275 )

Shares issued in connection with:

                                                      

Restricted stock awards

     —        65      —         106       (171 )     —         —    

Stock option exercises

     —        51      —         —         —         —         51  

Dividend Reinvestment Plan

     —        53      —         —         —         —         53  
    

  

  


 


 


 


 


Balances at June 30, 2003

     13      14,123      6,759       (643 )     (354 )     76       19,974  
    

  

  


 


 


 


 


Balances at January 1, 2004

   $ 13    $ 14,298    $ 7,253     $ (545 )   $ (558 )   $ 26     $ 20,487  

Comprehensive income:

                                                      

Net income

     —        —        1,477       —         —         —         1,477  

Other comprehensive loss

     —        —        —         —         —         (32 )     (32 )

Total comprehensive income

                                                   1,445  

Cash dividends declared ($0.225 per share)

     —        —        (281 )     —         —         —         (281 )

Shares issued in connection with:

                                                      

Restricted stock awards

     —        75      —         80       (155 )     —         —    

Stock option exercises

     —        20      —         —         —         —         20  

Dividend Reinvestment Plan

     —        55      —         —         —         —         55  
    

  

  


 


 


 


 


Balances at June 30, 2004

     13      14,448      8,449       (465 )     (713 )     (6 )     21,726  
    

  

  


 


 


 


 


 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

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Table of Contents

CORNERSTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2004 AND 2003

(In thousands)

(unaudited)

 

     2004

    2003

 

Operating activities:

                

Net income

   $ 1,477     $ 829  

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:

                

Depreciation and amortization

     270       300  

Provision for loan losses

     (550 )     175  

Originations of loans held for sale

     (8,032 )     (12,376 )

Proceeds from sales of loans held for sale

     8,633       17,819  

(Increase) decrease in accrued interest receivable

     (61 )     135  

Increase in other assets

     (67 )     (143 )

Decrease in accrued interest payable

     (31 )     (12 )

Increase in other liabilities

     472       425  

Income on bank-owned life insurance

     (88 )     (101 )

Other adjustments, net

     (70 )     (14 )
    


 


Net cash provided by operating activities

     1,953       7,037  
    


 


Investing activities:

                

Proceeds from maturities and calls of securities available for sale

     6,788       2,669  

Proceeds from maturities and calls of securities held to maturity

     7,224       5,610  

Purchases of securities available for sale

     —         (7,990 )

Purchases of securities held to maturity

     (36,152 )     (2,529 )

Net loan (originations) repayments, other than loans held for sale

     (9,131 )     3,959  

Redemption (purchases) of bank-owned life insurance

     666       (66 )

Purchases of Federal Home Loan Bank stock

     —         (92 )

Purchases of premises and equipment

     (411 )     (165 )
    


 


Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities

     (31,016 )     1,396  
    


 


Financing activities:

                

Net (decrease) increase in deposits

     (2,337 )     21,791  

Net increase in borrowings under securities repurchase agreements

     1,881       295  

Dividends paid on common stock

     (279 )     (273 )

Proceeds from issuance of common stock

     75       104  
    


 


Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities

     (660 )     21,917  
    


 


Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents

     (29,723 )     30,350  

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

     62,829       34,204  
    


 


Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

   $ 33,106     $ 64,554  
    


 


Supplemental information:

                

Interest payments

   $ 1,254     $ 1,549  

Income tax payments

     832       532  

Increase (decrease) in liability for securities purchased, not yet settled

     3,030       (2,529 )

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

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Table of Contents

CORNERSTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (UNAUDITED)

(dollars in thousands)

 

NOTE A - BASIS OF FINANCIAL STATEMENT PRESENTATION

 

The accompanying unaudited interim consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Cornerstone Bancorp, Inc., its subsidiary Cornerstone Bank (the “Bank”) and the Bank’s subsidiary Cornerstone Business Credit, Inc. (“CBC”), collectively the “Company”. The interim consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for interim financial statements and the instructions to Form 10-QSB, and, accordingly, do not include all of the information and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles for a complete set of financial statements. While management believes that the disclosures presented are adequate so as not to make the information misleading, it is suggested that these interim consolidated financial statements be read in conjunction with the annual consolidated financial statements and notes included in the Form 10-KSB for the year ended December 31, 2003. The interim results of operations for the period ended June 30, 2004 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the year ending December 31, 2004 or for any other interim period.

 

In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring accruals, necessary to present fairly the financial position, results of operations, changes in stockholders’ equity and cash flows at the dates and for the periods presented. In preparing the interim consolidated financial statements, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities as of the date of the statement of condition and revenues and expenses for the period. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates, as a result of changing conditions and future events. An estimate that is particularly critical and susceptible to significant near-term change is the allowance for loan losses.

 

Prior period amounts are reclassified, whenever necessary, to conform to the current period presentation.

 

NOTE B - EARNINGS PER SHARE

 

Basic earnings per share (“EPS”) excludes dilution and is computed by dividing income available to common stockholders (net income less dividends on preferred stock, if any) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. For this purpose, unvested shares of restricted stock are not considered to be outstanding. Diluted EPS is computed in a similar manner, except that the weighted average number of common shares is increased (using the treasury stock method) by additional common shares that would have been outstanding if all potentially dilutive securities (such as stock options and unvested restricted stock awards) were exercised or vested during the period. For the three month periods ended June 30, 2004 and 2003 the number of shares for diluted EPS exceeded the number of shares for basic EPS due to the dilutive effect of outstanding stock options and unvested restricted stock. For purposes of computing basic EPS, net income applicable to common stock equaled net income for these periods.

 

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Table of Contents

NOTE C – STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

 

The Company accounts for stock-based compensation in accordance with Accounting Principles Board (“APB”) Opinion No. 25, Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees, and related interpretations. Accordingly, compensation expense is not recognized for fixed stock options if the exercise price of the option equals the fair value of the underlying stock at the grant date. The fair value of restricted stock awards, measured at the grant date, is recognized as unearned compensation (a component of stockholders’ equity) and amortized to compensation expense over the vesting period.

 

Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation, encourages the use of a fair-value-based method of accounting for employee stock compensation plans, but permits the continued use of the intrinsic-value-based method of accounting prescribed by APB Opinion No. 25. Under SFAS No. 123, the grant-date fair value of options is recognized as compensation expense over the vesting period (if any). The Company has elected to continue to apply APB Opinion No. 25 and disclose the pro forma information required by SFAS No. 123. Had stock-based compensation expense been recognized in accordance with SFAS No. 123, the Company’s net income and earnings per common share would have been adjusted to the following pro forma amounts:

 

    

Three Months Ended

June 30,


   

Six Months Ended

June 30,


 
     2004

    2003

    2004

    2003

 
     (in thousands except per share data)  

Net income, as reported

   $ 422     $ 417     $ 1,477     $ 829  

Add restriced stock expense included in reported net income, net of related tax effects

     24       11       50       22  

Deduct restricted stock and stock option expense determined under the fair-value-based method, net of related tax effects

     (37 )     (16 )     (100 )     (27 )
    


 


 


 


Pro forma net income

     409       412       1,427       824  
    


 


 


 


Basic earnings per common share:

                                

As reported

   $ 0.35     $ 0.35     $ 1.22     $ 0.69  

Pro forma

     0.34       0.34       1.18       0.69  
    


 


 


 


Diluted earnings per common share:

                                

As reported

   $ 0.33     $ 0.33     $ 1.15     $ 0.67  

Pro forma

     0.32       0.33       1.11       0.66  
    


 


 


 


 

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Table of Contents

NOTE D – COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

 

Comprehensive income (loss) includes net income or loss, and any changes in stockholders’ equity from non-owner sources that are not recognized in the income statement (such as changes in net unrealized gains and losses on securities available for sale). Other comprehensive loss reported in the statements of stockholders’ equity for the three months ended June 30, 2004 and 2003 represents the change during those periods in the after-tax net unrealized gain on securities available for sale.

 

NOTE E – STANDBY LETTERS OF CREDIT

 

The Company had outstanding letters of credit of $1,221 and $1,338 at June 30, 2004 and December 31, 2003, respectively. Substantially all of the Company’s outstanding standby letters of credit are performance standby letters of credit within the scope of FASB Interpretation No. 45, Guarantor’s Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for Guarantees, Including Indirect Guarantees of Indebtedness of Others (“FIN 45”). These are irrevocable undertakings by the Company, as guarantor, to make payments in the event a specified third party fails to perform under a non-financial contractual obligation. Most of the Company’s performance standby letters of credit arise in connection with lending relationships and have terms of one year or less. The maximum potential future payments the Company could be required to make equals the contract amount of the standby letters of credit referred to above. FIN 45 also requires the recognition, at fair value, of a liability by a guarantor at the inception of certain guarantees issued or modified after December 31, 2003. The Company’s recognized liability for performance standby letters of credit was insignificant at June 30, 2004.

 

NOTE F – RECENT ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

 

SAB No. 105, Application of Accounting Principles to Loan Commitments was issued on March 9, 2004, which specifies that servicing assets embedded in commitments for loans to be held for sale should be recognized only when the servicing asset has been contractually separated from the associated loans by sale of securitization. SAB No. 105 is effective for commitments entered into after March 31, 2004. The adoption of SAB No. 105 will not have a material effect to the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

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Table of Contents
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis or Plan of Operation

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

The statements contained in this report that are not historical are “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. Examples of such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding expectations for earnings, credit quality, and other financial and business matters. When used in this report, the words “anticipate,” “plan,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect” and similar expressions as they relate to the Company or its management are intended to identify forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those discussed in, or implied by, the forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors, including but not limited to, competitive pressures on loan and deposit product pricing; other actions of competitors; changes in economic conditions; technological changes; the extent and timing of actions of the Federal Reserve Board, including changes in monetary policies and interest rates; customer deposit disintermediation; changes in customers’ acceptance of the Bank’s products and services; and the extent and timing of legislative and regulatory actions and reforms.

 

The forward-looking statements contained in this report speak only as of the date on which such statements are made.

 

FINANCIAL CONDITION

 

General

 

Total assets increased to $230,121 at June 30, 2004 from $225,867 at December 31, 2003, an increase of $4,254 (or 2%). The increase in assets primarily relates to a decrease in cash and cash equivalents, which was partially offset by an increase in total securities and net loans. The decrease in cash and cash equivalents of $29,723 was attributed to an increase in total securities of $25,054, an increase in net loans (excluding loans held for sale) of $9,207, as well as a decrease in deposits of $2,337.

 

Loans

 

The loan portfolio (excluding loans held for sale) increased to $130,598 at June 30, 2004 from $121,476 at December 31, 2003, an increase of $9,122 (or 8%). The increase in total loans primarily resulted from an increase in non-residential, construction and residential real estate loans. The increase was partially offset by a decrease in commercial as well as consumer and other loans. The increases in non-residential, residential and construction loans primarily reflect new loan originations for the period.

 

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Table of Contents

Major classifications of loans at June 30, 2004 and December 31, 2003 were as follows:

 

    

June 30,

2004


   

December 31,

2003


    Dollar
Change


    Percent
Change


 

Loans secured by real estate:

                              

Residential

   $ 38,891     $ 36,473     $ 2,418     7 %

Non-residential

     58,422       52,945       5,477     10  

Construction

     17,727       14,920       2,807     19  

Commercial loans

     13,804       15,077       (1,273 )   (8 )

Consumer and Other Loans

     1,811       2,116       (305 )   (14 )
    


 


 


     

Total Loans

     130,655       121,531       9,124     8  

Allowance for loan losses

     (2,302 )     (2,387 )     85     (4 )

Deferred loan fees, net

     (57 )     (55 )     (2 )   4  
    


 


 


     

Total loans, net

   $ 128,296     $ 119,089     $ 9,207     8 %
    


 


 


     

 

There were no residential mortgage loans held for sale at June 30, 2004 compared to $595 at December 31, 2003. Small Business Administration (“SBA”) loans held for sale at June 30, 2004 and December 31, 2003 were $720 and $184, respectively.

 

Non-performing Loans and the Allowance for Loan Losses

 

It is the Bank’s policy to manage its loan portfolio to facilitate early recognition of problem loans. The Bank commences internal collection efforts once a loan payment is more than 15 days past due. The Bank’s data processing system generates delinquency reports on all of the Bank’s loans weekly, and management reviews the loan portfolio to determine if past due loans should be placed on non-accrual status. Unless the customer is working with the Bank toward repayment, once a loan payment is 90 days past due, the Bank generally initiates appropriate collection or legal action.

 

10


Table of Contents

The following table summarizes, by type of loan, the recorded investment in non-performing loans at June 30, 2004 and December 31, 2003. Amounts are shown for (i) loans that were past due 90 days or more, segregated between those on non-accrual status and those that were still accruing interest, and (ii) loans that were current or past due less than 90 days for which interest payments were being applied to reduce principal balances.

 

    

June 30,

2004


   

December 31,

2003


 

Loans on non-accrual status:

                

Loans secured by real estate

   $ 228     $ 9  

Commercial loans

     112          

Consumer and other loans

     5       —    
    


 


       345       9  
    


 


Loans on accrual status:

                

Loans secured by real estate

     645       777  

Commercial loans

     15       91  

Consumer and other loans

     26       44  
    


 


       686       912  
    


 


Total loans past due 90 days or more

     1,031       921  
    


 


Loans current or past due less than 90 days for which interest payments were being applied to reduc principal balances:

                

Commercial loans

     340       218  
    


 


       340       218  
    


 


Total non-performing loans

   $ 1,371     $ 1,139  
    


 


Ratio of total non-performing loans to total loans outstanding

     1.05  %     0.94  %
    


 


 

The following table sets forth changes in the allowance for loan losses for the periods indicated.

 

    

Three Months Ended

June 30,


   

Six Months Ended

June 30,


 
     2004

    2003

    2004

    2003

 

Balance at beginning of period

   $ 2,339     $ 2,347     $ 2,387     $ 2,234  

Provision for loan losses

     (39 )     70       (550 )     175  

Loan charge-offs

     (3 )     (2 )     (7 )     (2 )

Recoveries

     5       9       472       17  
    


 


 


 


Balance at end of period

   $ 2,302     $ 2,424     $ 2,302     $ 2,424  
    


 


 


 


 

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Table of Contents

During the six months ended June 30, 2004 the Bank recovered $690, of which $460 was a recovery of previously charged-off principal and $216 in interest which was subsequently applied to income. The ratios of the allowance for loan losses to total loans and to non-performing loans were 1.75% and 168% respectively, at June 30, 2004, compared to 1.96% and 210%, respectively, at December 31, 2003.

 

Securities

 

Total securities increased to $56,643 at June 30, 2004 from $31,589 at December 31, 2003, an increase of $25,054 (or 79%). The increase in the securities portfolio was primarily due to purchases of $39,182 in securities held to maturity, partially offset by maturities and principal paydowns totaling $14,012.

 

The following table sets forth the amortized cost and estimated fair value of the securities portfolio at the dates indicated.

 

     June 30, 2004

   December 31, 2003

     Amortized
Cost


   Estimated
Fair
Value


   Amortized
Cost


   Estimated
Fair
Value


Available for sale

                           

U.S. Agency securities

   $ 3,021    $ 3,029    $ 9,535    $ 9,578

Mortgage-backed securities

     1,207      1,190      1,502      1,501
    

  

  

  

     $ 4,228    $ 4,219    $ 11,037    $ 11,079
    

  

  

  

Held to maturity

                           

U.S. Agency securities

   $ 44,681    $ 44,571    $ 15,090    $ 15,519

Mortgage-backed securities

     4,676      4,707      2,354      2,413

Municipal bonds

     2,992      2,945      2,991      3,012

Other

     75      75      75      75
    

  

  

  

     $ 52,424    $ 52,298    $ 20,510    $ 21,019
    

  

  

  

Total

   $ 56,652    $ 56,517    $ 31,547    $ 32,098
    

  

  

  

 

Deposits

 

Deposits are the primary source of funds for the Company. Deposits are obtained from individuals, partnerships, small and medium size businesses and professionals in the Company’s market area. The Company does not accept brokered deposits.

 

The following table indicates the composition of deposits at the dates indicated.

 

     June 30,
2004


   December 31,
2003


   Dollar
Change


    Percent
Change


 

Demand (non-interest bearing)

   $ 49,715    $ 44,142    $ 5,573     13 %

Money market demand and NOW

     42,070      37,233      4,837     13  

Regular, club and money market savings

     44,427      42,171      2,256     5  

Time

     60,169      75,172      (15,003 )   (20 )
    

  

  


     

Total deposits

   $ 196,381    $ 198,718    $ (2,337 )   1 %
    

  

  


     

 

12


Table of Contents

The decrease in deposits was primarily related to the decrease of approximately $15,003 in time deposits which was partially offset by an increased in demand, Money market demand and NOW accounts as well as increases in regular, club and money market savings. During the first six months of 2004, decreases in time deposits were primarily attributable to a decline in 12-17 month $15,200. Certificates of deposit in denominations of $100 or more were $14,357 at June 30, 2004 compared to $18,118 at December 31, 2003, a decrease of $3,761 (or 21%).

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

At June 30, 2004, total short-term investments, which are made up of federal funds sold and securities maturing or callable in one year or less, totaled $54,657. The primary liquidity of the Company is measured by the ratio of net cash, short-term investments, and other liquidity sources to deposits and short-term liabilities. The primary liquidity ratio at June 30, 2004 was 27.21%, compared to 37.29% at December 31, 2003. The Bank also calculates a secondary liquidity ratio which contemplates loan sales and loan payoffs anticipated to occur within one year and the maturity of available and held to maturity securities beyond one year. The Bank’s secondary liquidity ratio at June 30, 2004 was 40.26%, compared to 51.63% at December 31, 2003. The decreases in primary and secondary liquidity ratios in 2004 are primarily a result of the reduction in cash and cash equivalents at June 30, 2004 as compared to December 31, 2003. The effect of the lower level of cash and cash equivalents was partially offset by a reduction in time deposits at June 30, 2004 compared to December 31, 2003. The Company’s internal guideline is to generally maintain a primary liquidity ratio of 10 to 15% and a secondary liquidity ratio of 20% or more, although a higher primary ratio may be maintained from time to time depending on cash flow patterns and loan demand.

 

Net cash provided by operating activities was $1,953 for the six months ended June 30, 2004 as compared to $7,037 provided by operating activities for the six months ended June 30, 2003, primarily reflecting a decline in net cash inflows from sales of loans held for sale in the first six months of 2004 compared to the same period last year. Compared to the first six months of 2003, cash used in investing activities increased $32,412, primarily due to the effect of net securities purchases of $22,140 and to a lesser extent net loan disbursements of $9,131 during the six months ended June 30, 2004 as compared to net securities purchase of $2,240 and net loan receipts of $3,959 during the six months ended June 30, 2003. The decrease in net cash provided by financing activities of $22,577 for the six months ended June 30, 2004, primarily resulted from a decrease in cash provided by deposits. Cash and cash equivalents decreased $29,723 for the six months ended June 30, 2004, compared to an increase of $30,350 in the first six months of 2003.

 

At June 30, 2004, the Company had outstanding loan commitments under unused lines of credit of $16,429 and outstanding letters of credit of $1,221.

 

At June 30, 2004 and December 31, 2003, the Company’s consolidated leverage capital ratio was 9.8% and 9.7%, respectively. At June 30, 2004 and December 31, 2003, the Company’s consolidated Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio was 13.9% and 13.7%, respectively. The Company’s consolidated total risk-based capital ratio at June 30, 2004 and December 31, 2003 was 15.2% and 15.0%, respectively. The Bank’s regulatory capital ratios at these dates were substantially the same as the consolidated ratios, and the Bank was classified as a well-capitalized institution for regulatory purposes.

 

13


Table of Contents

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

General

 

The Company’s results of operations depend primarily on its net interest income, which is the difference between the interest income on earning assets, such as loans and securities, and the interest expense paid on deposits and borrowings. Results of operations are also affected by non-interest income and expense, the provision for loan losses and income tax expense. Non-interest income includes banking service fees and charges, income on bank-owned life insurance, and gains and losses on sales of securities available for sale and loans held for sale. The Company’s non-interest expense consists primarily of salaries and employee benefits, occupancy and equipment expenses, data processing expenses and professional fees. Results of operations are also significantly affected by general economic and competitive conditions, particularly changes in market interest rates, government policies and actions of regulatory authorities.

 

Critical Accounting Policies

 

In the course of the Company’s normal business activity, management must select and apply many accounting policies and methodologies that lead to the financial results presented in the consolidated financial statements of the Company. Some of these policies are more critical than others. Management considers the accounting policy relating to the allowance for loan losses to be a critical accounting policy because of the uncertainty and subjectivity inherent in estimating the levels of allowance needed to cover probable credit losses within the loan portfolio and the material effect that these estimates can have on the Company’s results of operations. While management uses the best available information to determine the allowance for loan losses, future adjustments to the allowance may be necessary based on a variety of factors, including changes in economic and real estate market conditions, particularly in Southwestern Fairfield County, Connecticut.

 

All accounting policies are important and readers of this report should review these policies, as included in Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements in the 2003 Annual Report on the Company’s Form 10-KSB, to gain a greater understanding of how the Company’s financial performance is reported.

 

Comparative Analysis of Operating Results for the Three Months Ended June 30, 2004 and June 30, 2003

 

Net Income. Net income was $422 for the three months ended June 30, 2004 compared to $417 for the three months ended June 30, 2003, an increase of $5 (or 1%). Diluted earnings per common share were $0.33 for the three months ended June 30, 2004 and 2003 based on weighted average common shares of 1,290,610 and 1,249,422, respectively. The annualized return on average common stockholders’ equity was 7.87% and 8.46% for the three months ended June 30, 2004 and 2003, respectively. The annualized return on average assets was 0.77% for the three months ended June 30, 2004 and 0.73% for the three months ended June 30, 2003.

 

14


Table of Contents

The higher net income for the three months ended June 30, 2004 was attributable to a credit provision in the provision for loan losses primarily as a result of the loan recovery previously mentioned and proceeds from key man life insurance, which was partially offset by an increase in salaries and other employee benefits.

 

Net Interest Income. Net interest income is the difference between the interest income the Company earns on its loans, securities and other earning assets, and the interest cost of deposits and other interest-bearing liabilities necessary to fund these earning assets. It is the primary component of the Company’s earnings.

 

Net interest income was $2,086 for the three months ended June 30, 2004, an increase of $105 (or 5%) from the $1,981 reported for the three months ended June 30, 2003. The average yield on interest-earning assets decreased 16 basis points for the quarter ended June 30, 2004 compared to June 30, 2003, while the average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities decreased 51 basis points. Declining interest rates during 2003 continued to impact the yields on the Company’s loans and federal funds sold. Interest income on a previously charged-off loan partially offset the general decline in market rates. These continuing low rates also contributed to the decline in the average rate paid on time certificates of deposit. These changes resulted in a 21 basis point increase in the net interest margin to 4.08% for the quarter ended June 30, 2004 compared to 3.87% for the quarter ended June 30, 2003.

 

Interest Income. Average earning assets for the three months ended June 30, 2004 were $207,249 compared to $207,458 for the three months ended June 30, 2003, a decrease of $209. Total interest income, which is a function of the volume of interest-earning assets and their related rates, was $2,662 for the three months ended June 30, 2004 compared to $2,756 for the three months ended June 30, 2003, representing a decrease of $94 (or 3%).

 

Loans represent the largest component of interest-earning assets. Interest income on loans was $2,218 for the three months ended June 30, 2004 compared to $2,189 for the three months ended June 30, 2003, an increase of $29 (or 1%). Average loan volume increased during the quarter ended June 30, 2004 compared to June 30, 2003, but the declining yields on the Company’s loan portfolio partially offset the effect on interest income. Average loans outstanding in the three months ended June 30, 2004 were $127,959 compared to $119,518 during the three months ended June 30, 2003, an increase of $8,441 (or 7%). The average yield on loans declined 38 basis points to 6.97% at June 30, 2004 from 7.35% at June 30, 2003.

 

Average investments in securities and federal funds sold were $79,290 for the three months ended June 30, 2004 compared to $87,940 for the three months ended June 30, 2003, a decrease of $8,650 (or 10%). Related income decreased to $444 for the three months ended June 30, 2004 from $567 for the three months ended June 30, 2003, a decrease of $123 (or 22%). Average investments in securities, not including federal funds sold, increased by $3,392 (or 8%) during the three months ended June 30, 2004. Declining interest rates during 2003 continued to impact the yields on the Company’s securities and federal funds sold. The decrease in income from securities was due to a decrease in the average interest rate earned on securities and federal funds sold. Average federal funds sold decreased by $12,042 (or 26%). Although the average volume of securities increased from year to year, this was more than offset by a decline in interest rates on securities and federal funds as well as the level of federal funds sold.

 

Interest Expense. Interest expense was $576 for the three months ended June 30, 2004 compared to $775 for the three months ended June 30, 2003, a decrease of $199 (or 26%). Interest expense is a

 

15


Table of Contents

function of the volume of interest-bearing liabilities and their related rates. Average interest-bearing liabilities during the three months ended June 30, 2004 were $153,536 compared to $154,078 during the three months ended June 30, 2003, a decrease of $542. The decrease in the rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities resulted in a decline in the average rate paid on interest bearing liabilities of 51 basis points to 1.51% for the quarter ended June 30, 2004 compared to 2.02% for the quarter ended June 30, 2003.

 

Provision for Loan Losses. The periodic provision for loan losses represents the amount necessary to adjust the allowance for loan losses to management’s estimate of probable credit losses inherent in the existing loan portfolio at the reporting date. Management’s determination of the allowance for loan losses is based on the results of continuing reviews of individual loans and borrower relationships, particularly in the commercial and commercial real estate loan portfolios. A review of the quality of the loan portfolio is conducted internally by management on a quarterly basis, using a consistently-applied methodology, and the results are presented to the Board of Directors for approval. The evaluation covers individual borrowers whose aggregate loans are greater than $100, as well as all adversely-classified loans. Management also considers factors such as the borrower’s financial condition, historical and expected ability to make loan payments and underlying collateral values. The determination of the allowance for loan losses also considers the level of past due loans, the Bank’s historical loan loss experience, changes in loan portfolio mix, geographic and borrower concentrations and current economic conditions. The allowance for loan losses is also reduced by charge-offs and increased by recoveries. Management’s evaluation of the allowance for loan losses indicated that the necessary provision for loan losses was $(39) the three months ended June 30, 2004 and $70 for the three months ended June 30, 2003.

 

At June 30, 2004, the Company had $1,371 of non-performing loans, including $345 of non-accrual loans and $686 of accruing loans greater than 90 days past due. Loans less than 90 days past due for which interest payments were being applied to reduce principal balances were $340 at June 30, 2004. At December 31, 2003, the Company had $1,139 of non-performing loans, including $9 of non-accrual loans and $912 of accruing loans greater than 90 days past due. Loans less than 90 days past due for which interest payments were being applied to reduce principal balances were $218 at December 31, 2003.

 

Non-interest Income. Non-interest income was $477 for the three months ended June 30, 2004 compared to $667 for the three months ended June 30, 2003, a decrease of $190 (or 28%). The $216 decrease in the net gain on sale of loans and loan servicing for the three months ended June 30, 2004 compared to June 30, 2003 relates to the reduced volume of SBA loans originated and sold and to a lesser extent the origination and sale of mortgage loans.

 

Non-interest Expense. Total non-interest expense was $1,920 for the three months ended June 30, 2004 and $1,900 for the three months ended June 30, 2003, an increase of $20 (or 1%). The increase in furniture and equipment primarily relates to depreciation on improvements made to the Summer Street office during the three months ended June 30, 2004. The increase in professional fees for the three months ended June 30, 2004 primarily relates to increased legal and audit fees. These increases were partially offset by a reduction in data processing expense which resulted from savings from a change in the Bank’s items processing vendor.

 

16


Table of Contents

The following table summarizes the dollar amounts for each category of non-interest expense, and the dollar and percent changes:

 

     Three months Ended
June 30,


  

Increase

(Decrease)

2004 vs 2003


 
Category    2004

   2003

   $ Change

    % Change

 

Salaries and employee benefits

   $ 1,093    $ 1,030    $ 63     6 %

Occupancy

     177      180      (3 )   (2 )

Furniture and equipment

     114      101      13     13  

Data processing

     119      140      (21 )   (15 )

Professional fees

     94      83      11     13  

Advertising and promotion

     42      41      1     2  

Other

     281      325      (44 )   (14 )
    

  

  


     

Total non-interest expense

   $ 1,920    $ 1,900    $ 20     1 %
    

  

  


     

 

The following table summarizes dollar amounts for each category of non-interest expense as a percentage of total operating income (interest income plus non-interest income). Operating income decreased by $284 (or 8%) in the second quarter of 2004 compared to the same period in 2003.

 

Category    2004

    2003

 

Salaries and employee benefits

   34.82 %   30.09 %

Occupancy

   5.64 %   5.26 %

Furniture and equipment

   3.63 %   2.95 %

Data processing

   3.79 %   4.09 %

Professional fees

   3.00 %   2.42 %

Advertising and promotion

   1.34 %   1.20 %

Other

   8.95 %   9.50 %
    

 

Total non-interest expense

   61.17 %   55.51 %
    

 

 

Income Taxes. The provision for income taxes decreased to $260 for the three months ended June 30, 2004 from $261 for the three months ended June 30, 2003.

 

Comparative Analysis of Operating Results for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2004 and June 30, 2003

 

Net Income. Net income was $1,477 for the six months ended June 30, 2004 compared to $829 for the six months ended June 30, 2003, an increase of $648 (or 78%). Diluted earnings per common share were $1.15 for the six months ended June 30, 2004 and $0.67 for the six months ended June 30, 2003 based on weighted average common shares of 1,283,797 and 1,246,126, respectively. The annualized return on average common stockholders’ equity was 14.03% and 8.52% for the six months ended June 30, 2004 and 2003, respectively. The annualized return on average assets was 1.36% for the six months ended June 30, 2004 and 0.75% for the six months ended June 30, 2003.

 

17


Table of Contents

The higher net income for the six months ended June 30, 2004 was attributable to a credit provision in the provision for loan losses primarily as a result of the loan recovery previously mentioned and proceeds from key man life insurance, as well as a decline in interest expense. This was partially offset by a decline in income on securities and federal funds sold, increases in salaries and other employee benefits as well as an increase in income tax expense.

 

Net Interest Income. Net interest income is the difference between the interest income the Company earns on its loans, securities and other earning assets, and the interest cost of deposits and other interest-bearing liabilities necessary to fund these earning assets. It is the primary component of the Company’s earnings.

 

Net interest income was $4,192 for the six months ended June 30, 2004, an increase of $122 (or 3%) from the $4,070 reported for the six months ended June 30, 2003. The average yield on interest-earning assets decreased 28 basis points for the quarter ended June 30, 2004 compared to June 30, 2003, while the average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities decreased 47 basis points. Declining interest rates during 2003 continued to impact the yields on the Company’s loans and federal funds sold. Interest income on a previously charged-off loan and the increased average volume of interest-earning assets (primarily loans) partially offset the general decline in market rates. These continuing low rates also contributed to the decline in the average rate paid on time certificates of deposit. These changes resulted in a 5 basis point increase in the net interest margin to 4.12% for the quarter ended June 30, 2004 compared to 4.07% for the quarter ended June 30, 2003.

 

Interest Income. Average earning assets for the six months ended June 30, 2004 were $205,474 compared to $202,488 for the six months ended June 30, 2003, an increase of $2,986 (or 1%). Total interest income, which is a function of the volume of interest-earning assets and their related rates, was $5,415 for the six months ended June 30, 2004 compared to $5,607 for the six months ended June 30, 2003, representing a decrease of $192 (or 3%).

 

Loans represent the largest component of interest-earning assets. Interest income on loans was $4,556 for the six months ended June 30, 2004 compared to $4,515 for the six months ended June 30, 2003, an increase of $41 (or 1%). Average loan volume increased during the six months ended June 30, 2004 compared to June 30, 2003, but the declining yields on the Company’s loan portfolio almost fully offset the significant effect on interest income. The effect of declining yields was also partially offset by a recovery of interest on a loan charged-off in December 2000. Average loans outstanding in the six months ended June 30, 2004 were $126,310 compared to $122,280 during the six months ended June 30, 2003, an increase of $4,030 (or 3%). The average yield on loans decreased 20 basis points to 7.25% for the six months ended June 30, 2004 compare to 7.45% for the six months ended June 30, 2003.

 

Average investments in securities and federal funds sold were $79,164 for the six months ended June 30, 2004 compared to $80,209 for the six months ended June 30, 2003, a decrease of $1,045 (or 1%). Related income decreased to $859 for the six months ended June 30, 2004 from $1,092 for the six months ended June 30, 2003, a decrease of $233 (or 21%). Average investments in securities, not including federal funds sold, increased by $1,003 (or 2%) during the six months ended June 30, 2004. The decrease in income from securities was due to a decrease in the average interest rate earned on securities and federal funds sold. Average federal funds sold decreased by $2,048 (or 5%). Although the average volume of securities declined from year to year, approximately $31,271 in net purchases (purchases of new securities less maturing securities) were made during the first six months of 2004 to reduce the level of federal funds.

 

18


Table of Contents

Interest Expense. Interest expense was $1,223 for the six months ended June 30, 2004 compared to $1,537 for the six months ended June 30, 2003, a decrease of $314 (or 20%). Interest expense is a function of the volume of interest-bearing liabilities and their related rates. Average interest-bearing liabilities during the six months ended June 30, 2004 were $152,833 compared to $148,624 during the six months ended June 30, 2003, an increase of $4,209 (or 3%). The decrease in the rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities resulted in a decline in the average rate paid on interest bearing liabilities of 47 basis points to 1.61% for the quarter ended June 30, 2004 compared to 2.08% for the quarter ended June 30, 2003.

 

Provision for Loan Losses. The periodic provision for loan losses represents the amount necessary to adjust the allowance for loan losses to management’s estimate of probable credit losses inherent in the existing loan portfolio at the reporting date. Management’s determination of the allowance for loan losses is based on the results of continuing reviews of individual loans and borrower relationships, particularly in the commercial and commercial real estate loan portfolios. A review of the quality of the loan portfolio is conducted internally by management on a quarterly basis, using a consistently-applied methodology, and the results are presented to the Board of Directors for approval. The evaluation covers individual borrowers whose aggregate loans are greater than $100, as well as all adversely-classified loans. Management also considers factors such as the borrower’s financial condition, historical and expected ability to make loan payments and underlying collateral values. The determination of the allowance for loan losses also considers the level of past due loans, the Bank’s historical loan loss experience, changes in loan portfolio mix, geographic and borrower concentrations and current economic conditions. The allowance for loan losses is also reduced by charge-offs and increased by recoveries. Management’s evaluation of the allowance for loan losses indicated that the necessary provision for loan losses was $(550) the six months ended June 30, 2004 and $175 for the six months ended June 30, 2003. Net loan recoveries were $465 in the six months ended June 30, 2004 compared to net loan recoveries of $15 in the first six months of last year. Approximately $460 in principal was recovered during the first quarter ending March 31, 2004 on loans to one borrower which were charged-off in December 2000.

 

At June 30, 2004, the Company had $1,371of non-performing loans, including $345 of non-accrual loans and $686 of accruing loans greater than 90 days past due. Loans less than 90 days past due for which interest payments were being applied to reduce principal balances were $340 at June 30, 2004. At December 31, 2003, the Company had $1,139 of non-performing loans, including $9 of non-accrual loans and $912 of accruing loans greater than 90 days past due. Loans less than 90 days past due for which interest payments were being applied to reduce principal balances were $218 at December 31, 2003.

 

Non-interest Income. Non-interest income was $1,459 for the six months ended June 30, 2004 compared to $1,251 for the six months ended June 30, 2003, an increase of $208 (or 17%). The increase of $530 in other income is directly attributable to the net proceeds of $495 received by the Bank on a key man life insurance policy on the former Vice Chairman which was partially offset by a $305 decrease in the net gain on sale of loans and loan servicing for the six months ended June 30, 2004 compared to June 30, 2003. The decline in the gain on sale of loans and loan servicing relates to the reduced volume of SBA and mortgage loans available for sale in 2004 compared to 2003.

 

19


Table of Contents

Non-interest Expense. Total non-interest expense was $4,084 for the six months ended June 30, 2004 and $3,809 for the six months ended June 30, 2003, an increase of $275 (or 7%).

 

The following table summarizes the dollar amounts for each category of non-interest expense, and the dollar and percent changes:

 

     Six months Ended
June 30,


   Increase (Decrease)
2004 vs 2003


 
Category    2004

   2003

   $ Change

    % Change

 

Salaries and employee benefits

   $ 2,443    $ 2,133    $ 310     15  %

Occupancy

     366      364      2     1  

Furniture and equipment

     228      203      25     12  

Data processing

     252      283      (31 )   (11 )

Professional fees

     188      176      12     7  

Advertising and promotion

     86      87      (1 )   1  

Other

     521      563      (42 )   (7 )
    

  

  


     

Total non-interest expense

   $ 4,084    $ 3,809    $ 275     %
    

  

  


     

 

The increase in salaries and employee benefits primarily relates to increased benefit accruals for the retirement and medical benefits of the former Vice Chairman who passed away on January 8, 2004. The increase in furniture and equipment primarily relates to depreciation on improvements made to the Summer Street office during the three months ended June 30, 2004. The increase in professional fees for the three months ended June 30, 2004 primarily relates to increased legal and audit fees. These increases were partially offset by a reduction in data processing expense which resulted from savings from a change in the Bank’s items processing vendor.

 

The following table summarizes dollar amounts for each category of non-interest expense as a percentage of total operating income (interest income plus non-interest income). Operating income increased by $16 in the first six months of 2004 compared to the same period in 2003.

 

     Six months Ended
June 30,


 
Category    2004

    2003

 

Salaries and employee benefits

   35.54 %   31.03 %

Occupancy

   5.32 %   5.30 %

Furniture and equipment

   3.32 %   2.95 %

Data processing

   3.67 %   4.12 %

Professional fees

   2.73 %   2.56 %

Advertising and promotion

   1.25 %   1.27 %

Other

   7.58 %   8.18 %
    

 

Total non-interest expense

   59.41 %   55.41 %
    

 

 

Income Taxes. The provision for income taxes increased to $640 for the six months ended June 30, 2004 from $508 for the six months ended June 30, 2003, primarily due to higher income before income tax expense which was partially offset by a lower effective tax rate.

 

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Item 3. Controls and Procedures

 

An evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures as of June 30, 2004 was conducted under the supervision and with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer. Based on this evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were adequate and designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in this report is recorded, processed, summarized and reported in a timely manner, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

During the quarter ended June 30, 2004, there was no significant change in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

Reference is made to the Certifications of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer about these and other matters included as Exhibits to this report.

 

PART II - Other Information

 

Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

 

The Annual Meeting of Shareholders of the Company was held on May 26, 2004. At the Annual Meeting, the shareholders elected James P. Jakubek, Joseph A. Maida, Melvin L. Maisel and Paul H. Reader, to the Board of Directors of the Company. There were 957,865 votes for and 3,486 votes withheld for Mr. Jakubek; and 959,593 votes for and 1,758 votes withheld for Mr. Maida; 960,452 votes for and 899 votes withheld for Mr. Maisel, and 959,335 votes for and 2,016 votes withheld for Mr. Reader. All four were elected for terms which expire at the 2007 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. Joseph Field, J. James Gordon, Donald Sappern, Merrill Forgotson and Courtney A. Nelthropp are currently serving terms on the Board of Directors which expire at the 2005 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. Stanley A. Levine, Leonard Miller, Ronald C. Miller, Martin Prince and Dr. Joseph Waxberg are currently serving terms on the Board of Directors which expire at the 2006 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.

 

The shareholders also ratified the appointment by the Board of Directors of KPMG LLP as the Company’s independent auditors for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2004. There were 959,081 votes for, 1,998 votes against and 451 abstentions with respect to such ratification.

 

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Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

 

(a) Exhibits:

 

31.1-Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification.

 

31.2-Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification.

 

32.1-Section 1350 Certifications.

 

(b) Reports on Form 8-K

 

The Company filed the following reports on Form 8-K during the quarter ended June 30, 2004:

 

1. Form 8-K filed on April 28, 2004 reporting earnings for the year ended March 31, 2004.

 

2. Form 8-K filed on June 17, 2004 reporting cash dividend for second quarter.

 

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SIGNATURES

 

In accordance with the requirements of the Exchange Act, the Registrant caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized

 

       

CORNERSTONE BANCORP, INC.

            (Registrant)

Date: August 13, 2004      

/s/ Merrill J. Forgotson


           

Merrill J. Forgotson

           

President and Chief Executive Officer

 

Date: August 13, 2004      

/s/ Ernest J. Verrico


           

Ernest J. Verrico

           

Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

 

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