UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, DC 20549
_______________________________________________________
FORM 10-Q
_______________________________________________________
ý
QUARTERLY REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 0R 15 (d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For Quarterly Period Ended: March 31, 2016
OR
¨
TRANSITION REPORT UNDER SECTIONS 13 OR 15 (d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
Commission File Number: 001-34565
  _______________________________________________________
MONARCH FINANCIAL HOLDINGS, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
  _______________________________________________________
 
VIRGINIA
20-4985388
(State of other jurisdiction of
Incorporation or organization)
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
1435 Crossways Blvd.
Chesapeake, Virginia 23320
(Address of Principal Executive Offices, Zip Code)
(757) 389-5111
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code, of agent for service)
Not Applicable
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)  
  _______________________________________________________
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes   ý     No   ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes   ý     No   ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See definition of “large accelerated filer,” and “accelerated filer,” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer
¨
Accelerated filer
ý
Non-accelerated filer
¨
Smaller reporting company
¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).     Yes    ¨   No   ý
The number of shares of common stock outstanding as of May 3, 2016 was 11,877,309 .
 
 
 
 
 



MONARCH FINANCIAL HOLDINGS, INC .
FORM 10-Q
March 31, 2016
INDEX
 
PART I.
 
 
ITEM 1.
Financial Statements
 
 
 
Consolidated Statements of Condition as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015
 
 
Consolidated Statements of Income for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and March 31, 2015
 
 
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and March 31, 2015
 
 
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and March 31, 2015
 
 
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and March 31, 2015
 
 
 
ITEM 2.
 
ITEM 3.
 
ITEM 4.
PART II.
 
 
Item 1.
 
Item 1A.
 
Item 2.
 
Item 3.
 
Item 4.
Mine Safety Disclosures
 
Item 5.
 
Item 6.

3


PART I—FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
MONARCH FINANCIAL HOLDINGS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CONDITION
 
(Unaudited)
 
 
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
ASSETS:
 
 
 
Cash and due from banks
$
13,184,880

 
$
13,945,507

Interest bearing bank balances
59,694,005

 
58,637,565

Federal funds sold
13,918,719

 
1,296,438

Total cash and cash equivalents
86,797,604

 
73,879,510

Investment securities available-for-sale, at fair value
26,869,270

 
30,213,130

Mortgage loans held for sale, net at fair value
189,131,150

 
169,345,205

Loans held for investment, net of unearned income
850,054,301

 
829,269,305

Less: allowance for loan losses
(8,901,032
)
 
(8,887,199
)
Loans, net
841,153,269

 
820,382,106

Property and equipment, net
28,354,996

 
28,971,862

Restricted equity securities
3,672,350

 
3,881,200

Bank owned life insurance
10,795,735

 
10,634,814

Goodwill
775,000

 
775,000

Other assets
24,957,994

 
23,365,328

Total assets
$
1,212,507,368

 
$
1,161,448,155

LIABILITIES:
 
 
 
Deposits:
 
 
 
Demand deposits—non-interest bearing
$
296,512,383

 
$
280,079,558

Demand deposits—interest bearing
69,752,990

 
68,963,364

Savings deposits
18,409,890

 
19,516,673

Money market savings
363,938,741

 
364,893,441

Time deposits
314,797,222

 
265,640,562

Total deposits
1,063,411,226

 
999,093,598

Borrowings:
 
 
 
Trust preferred subordinated debt
10,000,000

 
10,000,000

Federal Home Loan Bank advances

 
16,000,000

Total borrowings
10,000,000

 
26,000,000

Other liabilities
18,055,588

 
18,632,147

Total liabilities
1,091,466,814

 
1,043,725,745

STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:
 
 
 
Common stock, $5 par value; 20,000,000 shares authorized; issued and outstanding - 11,877,309 shares (includes non-vested shares of 437,440) at March 31, 2016 and 11,880,909 shares (includes non-vested shares of 441,040) at December 31, 2015
57,199,345

 
57,199,345

Additional paid-in capital
17,457,044

 
17,241,281

Retained earnings
46,336,873

 
43,349,447

Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(54,070
)
 
(156,594
)
Total Monarch Financial Holdings, Inc. stockholders’ equity
120,939,192

 
117,633,479

Non-controlling interest
101,362

 
88,931

Total equity
121,040,554

 
117,722,410

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
$
1,212,507,368

 
$
1,161,448,155


The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

4


ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
MONARCH FINANCIAL HOLDINGS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(Unaudited)
 
 
For the Three Months Ended March 31,
 
 
2016
 
2015
Interest income:
 
 
 
 
Interest and fees on loans held for investment
 
$
10,689,745

 
$
9,840,336

Interest on mortgage loans held for sale
 
1,411,908

 
1,307,037

Interest on investment securities
 
110,358

 
88,915

Interest on federal funds sold
 
3,632

 
8,253

Dividends on equity securities
 
45,229

 
39,000

Interest on other bank accounts
 
156,954

 
102,029

Total interest income
 
12,417,826

 
11,385,570

Interest expense:
 
 
 
 
Interest on deposits
 
854,044

 
668,060

Interest on trust preferred subordinated debt
 
55,689

 
46,415

Interest on borrowings
 
2,386

 
22,606

Total interest expense
 
912,119

 
737,081

Net interest income
 
11,505,707

 
10,648,489

Provision for loan losses
 

 
250,000

Net interest income after provision for loan losses
 
11,505,707

 
10,398,489

Non-interest income:
 
 
 
 
Mortgage banking income
 
19,018,308

 
21,063,679

Service charges and fees
 
500,139

 
516,554

Title income
 
215,603

 
232,771

Investment and insurance income
 
478,576

 
344,126

(Loss) gain on disposition of property and equipment
 
(97
)
 
35,011

Other
 
116,905

 
74,022

Total non-interest income
 
20,329,434

 
22,266,163

Non-interest expenses:
 
 
 
 
Salaries and employee benefits
 
10,142,860

 
9,594,276

Commissions and incentives
 
7,730,892

 
9,445,138

Loan origination expense
 
1,793,662

 
2,458,663

Occupancy expense
 
2,273,481

 
2,288,508

Marketing expense
 
774,401

 
746,227

Data processing expense
 
613,954

 
629,750

Telephone
 
351,731

 
325,746

Professional fees
 
525,258

 
258,601

Foreclosed property expense
 

 
53,326

Other expenses
 
1,165,546

 
1,377,597

Total non-interest expenses
 
25,371,785

 
27,177,832

Income before income taxes
 
6,463,356

 
5,486,820

Income tax provision
 
(2,363,340
)
 
(1,993,340
)
Net income
 
4,100,016

 
3,493,480

Less: Net income attributable to non-controlling interests
 
(43,307
)
 
(32,273
)
Net income attributable to Monarch Financial Holdings, Inc.
 
$
4,056,709

 
$
3,461,207

Basic net income per share (1)
 
$
0.34

 
$
0.29

Diluted net income per share (1)
 
$
0.34

 
$
0.29

(1) Per share information has been restated in all periods to reflect the 11 for 10 stock dividend paid December 4, 2015.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

5


ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
MONARCH FINANCIAL HOLDINGS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(Unaudited)
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
 
March 31,
 
 
2016
 
2015
Net Income
 
$
4,100,016

 
$
3,493,480

Other comprehensive income:
 
 
 
 
Change in unrealized gain on securities available for sale, net of income taxes
 
98,866

 
77,526

Change in unrealized gain on supplemental executive's retirement plan, net of income taxes
 
3,049

 
3,049

Change in unrealized gain on deferred compensation asset
 
609

 
7,238

Other comprehensive income
 
102,524

 
87,813

Total comprehensive income
 
4,202,540

 
3,581,293

Less: Comprehensive income attributable to non-controlling interests
 
(43,307
)
 
(32,273
)
Comprehensive income attributable to Monarch Financial Holdings, Inc.
 
$
4,159,233

 
$
3,549,020

 
 
 
 
 
Unrealized holding gain on securities available for sale
 
$
152,102

 
$
119,271

Income taxes
 
(53,236
)
 
(41,745
)
Net unrealized gain on securities available for sale
 
$
98,866

 
$
77,526

 
 
 
 
 
Unrealized gain on supplemental executive's retirement plan
 
$
4,691

 
$
4,691

Income taxes
 
(1,642
)
 
(1,642
)
Net unrealized gain on supplemental executive's retirement plan
 
$
3,049

 
$
3,049

 
 
 
 
 
Unrealized gain on deferred compensation asset
 
$
609

 
$
7,238

Income taxes
 

 

Net unrealized gain on deferred compensation asset
 
$
609

 
$
7,238


The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

6


ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
  MONARCH FINANCIAL HOLDINGS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(unaudited)
 
Common Stock
 
Additional
Paid-In
Capital
 
Retained
Earnings
 
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
 
Non-controlling
Interest
 
Total
Shares
 
Amount
 
Balance—December 31, 2014
10,372,725

 
$
51,863,625

 
$
8,335,538

 
$
47,354,407

 
$
(102,237
)
 
$
85,984

 
$
107,537,317

Net income for the three months ended March 31, 2015
 
 
 
 
 
 
3,461,207

 
 
 
32,273

 
3,493,480

Other comprehensive income
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
87,813

 
 
 
87,813

Stock-based compensation expense, net of forfeitures and income taxes

 

 
171,643

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
171,643

Stock options exercised
17,272

 
86,360

 
47,786

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
134,146

Cash dividend declared on common stock ($0.08 per share)
 
 
 
 
 
 
(858,261
)
 
 
 
 
 
(858,261
)
Distributions to non-controlling interests
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(28,877
)
 
(28,877
)
Balance - March 31, 2015
10,389,997

 
$
51,949,985

 
$
8,554,967

 
$
49,957,353

 
$
(14,424
)
 
$
89,380

 
$
110,537,261

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance—December 31, 2015
11,439,869

 
$
57,199,345

 
$
17,241,281

 
$
43,349,447

 
$
(156,594
)
 
$
88,931

 
$
117,722,410

Net income for the three months ended March 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
4,056,709

 
 
 
43,307

 
4,100,016

Other comprehensive income
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
102,524

 
 
 
102,524

Stock-based compensation expense, net of forfeitures and income taxes

 

 
215,763

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
215,763

Cash dividend declared on common stock ($0.09 per share)
 
 
 
 
 
 
(1,069,283
)
 
 
 
 
 
(1,069,283
)
Distributions to non-controlling interests
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(30,876
)
 
(30,876
)
Balance - March 31, 2016
11,439,869

 
$
57,199,345

 
$
17,457,044

 
$
46,336,873

 
$
(54,070
)
 
$
101,362

 
$
121,040,554


The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.


7


ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
MONARCH FINANCIAL HOLDINGS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(unaudited)
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
Operating activities:
 
 
 
Net income
$
4,100,016

 
$
3,493,480

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
 
 
 
Provision for loan losses

 
250,000

Depreciation
722,952

 
723,205

Accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, net
1,549

 
684

Deferral of loan fees, net of deferred (costs)
18,023

 
147,656

Stock-based compensation
215,763

 
171,643

Appreciation of bank-owned life insurance
(39,989
)
 
(67,954
)
Net loss (gain) on disposition of property and equipment
97

 
(35,011
)
Net loss on sale of other real estate

 
38,879

Deferred income tax expense
2,363,340

 
334,565

Changes in:
 
 
 
Loans held for sale
(19,785,945
)
 
(12,208,390
)
Interest receivable
(62,752
)
 
(129,050
)
Other assets
(1,578,450
)
 
(3,310,447
)
Other liabilities
(2,944,471
)
 
554,788

Net cash used in operating activities
(16,989,867
)
 
(10,035,952
)
Investing activities:
 
 
 
Purchases of available-for-sale securities

 
(2,000,000
)
Proceeds from sales and maturities of available-for-sale securities
3,500,393

 
5,561,191

Proceeds from sale of other real estate

 
105,121

Purchase of bank owned life insurance and company owned life insurance
(120,932
)
 
(225,000
)
Purchases of premises and equipment
(108,633
)
 
(536,468
)
Redemption of restricted equity securities
208,850

 
389,600

Loan originations, net of principal repayments
(20,789,186
)
 
(15,216,358
)
Net cash used in investing activities
(17,309,508
)
 
(11,921,914
)
Financing activities:
 
 
 
Net increase in non-interest-bearing deposits
16,432,825

 
35,145,090

Net increase in interest-bearing deposits
47,884,803

 
82,580,062

Cash dividends paid on common stock
(1,069,283
)
 
(858,261
)
Net decrease in FHLB advances and federal funds purchased
(16,000,000
)
 
(10,024,998
)
Distributions to non-controlling interests
(30,876
)
 
(28,877
)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options

 
134,146

Net cash provided by financing activities
47,217,469

 
106,947,162

CHANGE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
12,918,094

 
84,989,296

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF YEAR
73,879,510

 
65,428,974

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD
$
86,797,604

 
$
150,418,270

SUPPLEMENTAL SCHEDULES AND CASH FLOW INFORMATION
 
 
 
Cash paid for:
 
 
 
Interest on deposits and other borrowings
$
945,414

 
$
716,831

Income taxes
$

 
$
1,239,900

Loans transferred to foreclosed real estate during the year
$

 
$
100,000

Unrealized gain on securities available for sale
$
152,102

 
$
119,271

Unrealized gain on supplemental executive's retirement plan
$
4,691

 
$
4,691

Unrealized gain on deferred compensation asset
$
609

 
$
7,238

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

8


MONARCH FINANCIAL HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION
In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments consisting of normal recurring accruals necessary to present fairly Monarch Financial Holdings, Inc.’s financial position as of March 31, 2016 ; the consolidated statements of income for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015; the consolidated statements of comprehensive income for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015; the consolidated statements of changes in stockholders’ equity for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015; and the consolidated statements of cash flows for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015. These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q and therefore, do not include all of the disclosures required by generally accepted accounting principles. The financial statements include the accounts of Monarch Financial Holdings, Inc. and its subsidiaries, and all significant inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated. Operating results for the three month period ended March 31, 2016 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ended December 31, 2016 .
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-15, “Presentation of Financial Statements - Going Concern (Subtopic 205-40): Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern.” This update is intended to provide guidance about management’s responsibility to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern and to provide related footnote disclosures. Management is required under the new guidance to evaluate whether there are conditions or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date the financial statements are issued when preparing financial statements for each interim and annual reporting period. If conditions or events are identified, the ASU specifies the process that must be followed by management and also clarifies the timing and content of going concern footnote disclosures in order to reduce diversity in practice. The amendments in this ASU are effective for annual periods and interim periods within those annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Early adoption is permitted. The Company does not expect the adoption of ASU 2014-15 to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.
In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01, “Financial Instruments - Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.” The amendments in ASU 2016-01, among other things: 1) Requires equity investments (except those accounted for under the equity method of accounting, or those that result in consolidation of the investee) to be measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net income. 2) Requires public business entities to use the exit price notion when measuring the fair value of financial instruments for disclosure purposes. 3) Requires separate presentation of financial assets and financial liabilities by measurement category and form of financial asset (i.e., securities or loans and receivables). 4) Eliminates the requirement for public business entities to disclose the method(s) and significant assumptions used to estimate the fair value that is required to be disclosed for financial instruments measured at amortized cost. The amendments in this ASU are effective for public companies for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The Company is currently assessing the impact that ASU 2016-01 will have on its consolidated financial statements.
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842).” Among other things, in the amendments in ASU 2016-02, lessees will be required to recognize the following for all leases (with the exception of short-term leases) at the commencement date: (1) A lease liability, which is a lessee‘s obligation to make lease payments arising from a lease, measured on a discounted basis; and (2) A right-of-use asset, which is an asset that represents the lessee’s right to use, or control the use of, a specified asset for the lease term. Under the new guidance, lessor accounting is largely unchanged. Certain targeted improvements were made to align, where necessary, lessor accounting with the lessee accounting model and Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. The amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early application is permitted upon issuance. Lessees (for capital and operating leases) and lessors (for sales-type, direct financing, and operating leases) must apply a modified retrospective transition approach for leases existing at, or entered into after, the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the financial statements. The modified retrospective approach would not require any transition accounting for leases that expired before the earliest comparative period presented. Lessees and lessors may not apply a full retrospective transition approach. The Company is currently assessing the impact that ASU 2016-02 will have on its consolidated financial statements.
During March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-05, “Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Effect of Derivative Contract Novations on Existing Hedge Accounting Relationships.” The amendments in this ASU clarify that a change in the counterparty to a derivative instrument that has been designated as the hedging instrument does not, in and of itself, require dedesignation of that hedging relationship provided that all other hedge accounting criteria remain intact. The amendments are effective for public business entities for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, and interim periods within

9


those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. The Company does not expect the adoption of ASU 2016-05 to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.
In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-07, “Investments - Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323): Simplifying the Transition to the Equity Method of Accounting.” The amendments in this ASU eliminate the requirement that when an investment qualifies for use of the equity method as a result of an increase in the level of ownership interest or degree of influence, an investor must adjust the investment, results of operations, and retained earnings retroactively on a step-by-step basis as if the equity method had been in effect during all previous periods that the investment had been held. The amendments require that the equity method investor add the cost of acquiring the additional interest in the investee to the current basis of the investor’s previously held interest and adopt the equity method of accounting as of the date the investment becomes qualified for equity method accounting. Therefore, upon qualifying for the equity method of accounting, no retroactive adjustment of the investment is required. In addition, the amendments in this ASU require that an entity that has an available-for-sale equity security that becomes qualified for the equity method of accounting recognize through earnings the unrealized holding gain or loss in accumulated other comprehensive income at the date the investment becomes qualified for use of the equity method. The amendments are effective for all entities for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2016. The amendments should be applied prospectively upon their effective date to increases in the level of ownership interest or degree of influence that result in the adoption of the equity method. Early Adoption is permitted. The Company does not expect the adoption of ASU 2016-07 to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.
During March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-09, “Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Shares-Based Payment Accounting.” The amendments in this ASU simplify several aspects of the accounting for share-based payment award transactions including: (a) income tax consequences; (b) classification of awards as either equity or liabilities; and (c) classification on the statement of cash flows. The amendments are effective for public companies for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016, and interim periods within those annual periods. The Company is currently assessing the impact that ASU 2016-09 will have on its consolidated financial statements.

NOTE 2. GENERAL
Monarch Financial Holdings, Inc. (the "Company" or "Monarch") is a Virginia-chartered, single bank holding company engaged in business and consumer banking, investment and insurance sales, and mortgage origination and brokerage. The Company was created on June 1, 2006 through a reorganization plan, under the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia, in which Monarch Bank (the "Bank") became a wholly-owned subsidiary. Monarch Bank was incorporated on May 1, 1998, and opened for business on April 14, 1999. The Company's corporate office and main office are both located in the Greenbrier area of Chesapeake. In addition there are nine other Virginia banking offices – in the Great Bridge area in Chesapeake, the Lynnhaven area, the Town Center area, the Oceanfront area, the Kempsville area, and the Hilltop area in Virginia Beach, the Ghent area and in the downtown area in Norfolk, and the New Town area in Williamsburg. In North Carolina, our banking division operates as OBX Bank through two offices in Kitty Hawk and Nags Head. In July 2014, the Company closed its branch located in Suffolk, Virginia.
In August 2001, we formed Monarch Investment, LLC, to enable us to offer additional services to our clients. The Bank owns 100% of Monarch Investment, LLC. In August 2012, the Company formed an affiliation with Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., a broker-dealer headquartered in St. Petersburg, Florida, and launched Monarch Bank Private Wealth ("MBPW"). MBPW is a division of Monarch Bank that offers private banking to high net worth individuals. In addition, through its affiliation with Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., MBPW is able to offer these same individuals financial planning, trust and investment services. Monarch Investment, LLC, continues to provide non-deposit investment services under the name of Monarch Investments.
In January 2003, Monarch Investment, LLC, purchased a non-controlling interest in Bankers Insurance, LLC, in a joint venture with the Virginia Bankers Association and many other community banks. Bankers Insurance, LLC, is a full service property/casualty and life/health insurance agency that ranks as one of the largest agencies in Virginia. Bankers Insurance, LLC, provides insurance to our customers and to the general public.
In February 2004, we formed Monarch Capital, LLC, for the purpose of engaging in the commercial real estate brokerage business. The Bank owns 100% of Monarch Capital, LLC.
In May 2007, Monarch expanded banking operations into northeastern North Carolina with the opening of a banking office in the town of Kitty Hawk, under the name of OBX Bank (OBX). We opened a second office in the town of Nags Head in December 2009. OBX Bank, which operates as a division of Monarch, is led by a local management team and a local advisory board of directors.
In June 2007, we announced the expansion of mortgage operations through the acquisition of a team of experienced mortgage bankers, and the formation of a division operating as Monarch Mortgage ("MM"). MM originates and sells conventional, FHA,

10


VA and VHDA residential loans and offers additional mortgage products such as construction-permanent loans for the Bank’s loan portfolio. Monarch Mortgage's primary office is in Virginia Beach with additional offices in Abingdon, Alexandria, Chesapeake, Fairfax, Fredericksburg, Glen Allen, Midlothian, Norfolk, Newport News, Oakton, and Woodbridge, Virginia; Annapolis, Bel Air, Crofton, Dunkirk, Frederick, Greenbelt, Rockville, Towson and Waldorf, Maryland; Charlotte, Fayetteville, Indian Trail, Kitty Hawk, Mint Hill, Mooresville, Nags Head, Pittsboro, and Wilmington, North Carolina; and Greenwood, South Carolina.
In July 2007, Monarch Investment, LLC, purchased a 50.01% ownership in Coastal Home Mortgage, LLC, from another bank. This joint venture provides residential loan services through Monarch Mortgage. The 49.99% ownership is shared by two companies involved in commercial and residential construction in the Hampton Roads area.
In October 2007, Monarch Investment, LLC, formed a title insurance company, Real Estate Security Agency, LLC (RESA), along with TitleVentures, LLC. Monarch Investment, LLC, owns 75% of RESA and TitleVentures, LLC, owns 25% . RESA offers residential and commercial title insurance to the clients of Monarch Mortgage and Monarch Bank.
In March 2011, Monarch Investment, LLC formed Crossways Holdings, LLC in Chesapeake, Virginia. Crossways Holdings, LLC is a single member limited liability company, formed for the purpose of acquiring, maintaining, utilizing and disposing of assets for Monarch Bank.
In January 2015, Monarch Investment, LLC purchased a non-controlling interest in Atlantic Real Estate Capital, a commercial real estate brokerage business located in Richmond, Virginia.
Proposed Merger with TowneBank
On December 17, 2015, the Company and Bank entered into a definitive agreement with TowneBank (“Towne”), pursuant to which Towne will acquire all of the common stock of Monarch in a stock transaction valued at approximately $221 million , based on Towne’s closing price December 16, 2015. Upon completion of the transaction, Town is expected to have approximately $7.3 billion in assets, $5.4 billion in loans and $5.8 billion in deposits.
Under the terms of the agreement, which has been approved by the Board of Directors of both companies, Monarch shareholders will be entitled to receive 0.8830 shares of Towne common stock for each share of Monarch stock at the closing date. The transaction, which is subject to regulatory approval, the approval of the shareholders of Monarch and Towne, and other customary conditions, is expected to close in the second quarter of 2016.
NOTE 3. EARNINGS PER SHARE (“EPS”)
Basic earnings per share (EPS) excludes dilution and is computed by dividing income available to common shareholders by the weighted-average number of shares outstanding for the period. Diluted EPS reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised, converted into common stock or resulted in the issuance of common stock that then shared in the earnings of the entity. Non-vested restricted stock is included in the weighted average number of shares for both the basic and diluted earnings computations. The following is a reconciliation of the numerators and denominators of the basic and diluted earnings per share computations.
  
For the Quarter Ended March 31,
  
2016
 
2015
Net income available to common shareholders (numerator, basic)
$
4,056,709

 
$
3,461,207

Weighted average shares outstanding - basic (denominator)
11,880,553

 
11,801,379

Income per common share—basic
$
0.34

 
$
0.29

Net income (numerator, diluted)
$
4,056,709

 
3,461,207

Weighted average shares—diluted (denominator)
11,880,553

 
11,837,888

Income per common share—diluted
$
0.34

 
$
0.29

Dilutive effect-average number of common shares

 
36,509


There were no options to purchase common stock excluded from the computation of earnings per common share for the three months ended March 31, 2016 or March 31, 2015 . No options to purchase common stock remain outstanding at March 31, 2016.
Share and per share amounts for the quarter ended March 31, 2015 have been restated to include the 11 for 10 stock dividend announced October 22, 2015 and paid December 4, 2015.


11


NOTE 4. ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME(LOSS)
The following table presents the changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), by category, net of tax:
 
 
Unrealized Loss on Supplemental Executive's Retirement Plan
 
Unrealized Gains (Loss) on Securities
 
Unrealized Loss on Deferred Compensation Asset
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
December 31, 2015
 
$
(121,970
)
 
$
(34,589
)
 
$
(35
)
 
$
(156,594
)
Net change for the quarter ended March 31, 2016
 
3,049

 
98,866

 
609

 
102,524

Balance at March 31, 2016
 
$
(118,921
)
 
$
64,277

 
$
574

 
$
(54,070
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at December 31, 2014
 
$
(134,167
)
 
$
31,721

 
$
209

 
$
(102,237
)
Net change for the quarter ended March 31, 2015
 
3,049

 
77,526

 
7,238

 
87,813

Balance at March 31, 2015
 
$
(131,118
)
 
$
109,247

 
$
7,447

 
$
(14,424
)
An unrealized gain of $609 on the deferred compensation asset associated with the Company's Executive Benefits Plan was recorded in other comprehensive income in the first quarter of 2016. An unrealized gain of $7,238 on the deferred compensation asset associated with the Company's Executive Benefits Plan was recorded in other comprehensive income in the first quarter of 2015. Expenses totaling $3,049 related to the SERP were re-classed out of other comprehensive income into salaries and employee benefits expense in earnings during the first quarter of 2016 and 2015.
NOTE 5. INVESTMENT SECURITIES
Securities available-for-sale consist of the following:
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
 
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
March 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. government agency obligations
$
22,924,198

 
$
33,471

 
$
(38,317
)
 
$
22,919,352

Mortgage-backed securities
946,946

 
9,596

 
(1,703
)
 
954,839

Municipal securities
2,899,239

 
95,840

 

 
2,995,079

 
$
26,770,383

 
$
138,907

 
$
(40,020
)
 
$
26,869,270

  
Amortized
Cost
 
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
 
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
December 31, 2015
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. government agency obligations
$
26,376,230

 
$
17,635

 
$
(157,620
)
 
$
26,236,245

Mortgage-backed securities
995,360

 
6,216

 
(3,187
)
 
998,389

Municipal securities
2,900,734

 
90,294

 
(12,532
)
 
2,978,496

 
$
30,272,324

 
$
114,145

 
$
(173,339
)
 
$
30,213,130

Monarch did not own any held-to-maturity securities at March 31, 2016 or December 31, 2015 .
The amortized cost and fair value of securities by contractual maturity date at March 31, 2016 were as follows:  
Securities available-for-sale:
Amortized
Cost
 
Fair Value
Due in one year or less
$
600,000

 
$
600,962

Due from one to five years
23,938,786

 
23,942,736

Due from five to ten years
793,137

 
831,160

Due after ten years
1,438,460

 
1,494,412

Total
$
26,770,383

 
$
26,869,270


There were twenty investments in our securities portfolio with unrealized losses as of March 31, 2016 .

12


As of March 31, 2016
 
Less than 12 months
 
12 months or more
 
Total
 
 
Fair Value
 
Unrealized Loss
 
Fair Value
 
Unrealized Loss
 
Fair Value
 
Unrealized Loss
U.S. government agency obligations
 
$
12,468,032

 
$
(31,968
)
 
$
2,993,651

 
$
(6,349
)
 
$
15,461,683

 
$
(38,317
)
Mortgage-backed securities
 
378,113

 
(1,703
)
 

 

 
378,113

 
(1,703
)
Municipal securities
 

 

 

 

 

 

Total
 
$
12,846,145

 
$
(33,671
)
 
$
2,993,651

 
$
(6,349
)
 
$
15,839,796

 
$
(40,020
)

There were twenty-eight investments in our securities portfolio that had unrealized losses as of December 31, 2015.
As of December 31, 2015
 
Less than 12 months
 
12 months or more
 
Total
 
 
Fair
Value
 
Unrealized
Loss
 
Fair
Value
 
Unrealized
Loss
 
Fair
Value
 
Unrealized
Loss
U.S. government agency obligations
 
$
15,761,617

 
$
(134,401
)
 
$
2,976,782

 
$
(23,219
)
 
$
18,738,399

 
$
(157,620
)
Mortgage-backed securities
 
684,506

 
(3,187
)
 

 

 
684,506

 
(3,187
)
Municipal securities
 
498,715

 
(1,285
)
 
504,170

 
(11,247
)
 
1,002,885

 
(12,532
)
Total
 
$
16,944,838

 
$
(138,873
)
 
$
3,480,952

 
$
(34,466
)
 
$
20,425,790

 
$
(173,339
)

As of March 31, 2016 , six investments have been in a continuous unrealized loss position for more than twelve months. They are as follows:
 
Count
 
Amortized Cost
 
Fair Value
U.S. government agency obligations
6

 
$
3,000,000

 
$
2,993,651

Total
6

 
$
3,000,000

 
$
2,993,651


At December 31, 2015, seven investments had been in a continuous unrealized loss position for more than twelve months. They were as follows:
 
Count
 
Amortized Cost
 
Fair Value
U.S. government agency obligations
6

 
$
3,000,000

 
$
2,976,782

Municipal securities
1

 
515,417

 
504,170

Total
7

 
$
3,515,417

 
$
3,480,952


There were no realized gains or losses recorded on available-for-sale investments during the first quarter of 2016. We recorded $22,801 in realized gains on available-for-sale investments in 2015.
We have the ability to carry these investments to the final maturity of the instruments. Other-than-temporarily impaired (OTTI) guidance for investments states that an impairment is OTTI if any of the following conditions exist: the entity intends to sell the security; it is more likely than not that the entity will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis; or, the entity does not expect to recover the security’s entire amortized cost basis (even if the entity does not intend to sell). An impaired security identified as OTTI should be separated and losses should be recognized in earnings.
We believe the unrealized losses in our portfolio are temporary impairments, caused by liquidity discounts and increases in the risk premiums required by market participants, rather than adverse changes in cash flows or fundamental weaknesses in the credit quality of the issuer or underlying assets as of March 31, 2016 . There were no losses related to OTTI recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss at either March 31, 2016 or December 31, 2015 .

13



NOTE 6. LOANS RECEIVABLE AND ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSS
The following table provides a breakdown, by class of our loans held for investment at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 .
Loans held for Investment  
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
Commercial
$
156,582,498

 
$
158,072,698

Real estate
 
 
 
Construction
209,408,683

 
190,422,992

Residential (1-4 family)
116,380,071

 
113,278,318

Home equity lines
58,221,283

 
59,097,607

Multifamily
9,503,347

 
11,590,641

Commercial
294,316,513

 
290,531,083

Real estate subtotal
687,829,897

 
664,920,641

Consumers
 
 
 
Consumer and installment loans
5,813,500

 
6,356,473

Overdraft protection loans
48,153

 
121,217

Loans to individuals subtotal
5,861,653

 
6,477,690

Total gross loans
850,274,048

 
829,471,029

Unamortized loan fees net of deferred costs
(219,747
)
 
(201,724
)
Loans held for investment, net of unearned income
850,054,301

 
829,269,305

Allowance for loan losses
(8,901,032
)
 
(8,887,199
)
Total net loans
$
841,153,269

 
$
820,382,106

We have certain lending policies and procedures in place designed to balance loan growth and income with an acceptable level of risk. Management reviews and approves these policies and procedures on a regular basis. A reporting system supplements the review process by providing management with frequent reports related to loan production, loan quality, credit concentrations, policy exceptions, loan delinquencies and non-performing and potential problem loans. Diversification in the loan portfolio is a means of managing risk associated with fluctuations in economic conditions.
Our loan portfolio is divided into three loan types; commercial, real estate and consumer. Some of these loan types are further broken down into segments. The commercial loan portfolio, which is not broken down further, includes commercial and industrial loans which are usually secured by the assets being financed or other business assets. The real estate portfolio is broken down into construction, residential 1-4 family, home equity lines, multifamily, and commercial real estate loan segments. The consumer loan portfolio is segmented into consumer and installment loans and overdraft protection loans.
Commercial loans are underwritten after evaluating and understanding the borrower’s ability to operate profitably and prudently expand their business. Underwriting standards are designed to promote relationship banking rather than transactional banking. Once it is determined the borrower’s management possesses sound ethics and solid business acumen, we examine current and projected cash flows to determine the ability of the borrower to repay their obligations as agreed. Commercial and industrial loans are primarily made based on the identified cash flows of the borrower and secondarily on the underlying collateral provided by the borrower. The cash flows of borrowers, however, may not be as expected and the collateral securing these loans may fluctuate in value. Most commercial and industrial loans are secured by the assets being financed or other business assets such as accounts receivable or inventory and normally incorporate a personal guarantee; however, some short-term loans may be made on an unsecured basis. In the case of loans secured by accounts receivable, the availability of funds for repayment of these loans may be substantially dependent on the ability of the borrower to collect amounts due from its customers.
Commercial real estate loans are subject to underwriting standards and processes similar to commercial loans, in addition to those of real estate loans. These loans are viewed primarily as cash flow loans and secondarily as loans secured by real estate. Commercial real estate lending typically involves higher loan principal amounts and the repayment of these loans is generally largely dependent on the successful operation or sale of the income producing property securing the loan, or the business conducted on the property securing the loan. Commercial real estate loans may be more adversely affected by conditions in the real estate markets or in the general economy. The properties securing our commercial real estate portfolio are diverse in terms of type. This diversity helps reduce our exposure to adverse economic events that could affect any single market or industry. Management monitors and evaluates commercial real estate loans based on purpose, collateral, geography, cash flow, loan to value, and risk grade criteria. As a general rule, we avoid financing special purpose projects unless other underwriting factors are present to help

14


mitigate risk. In addition, management tracks the level of owner-occupied commercial real estate loans versus non-owner occupied loans. At March 31, 2016 approximately 43% and at December 31, 2015 approximately 40% of the outstanding principal balance of our commercial real estate loans portfolio was secured by owner-occupied properties.
With respect to loans to developers and builders, secured by non-owner occupied properties we may originate from time to time, we generally require the borrower to have an existing relationship with the Company and a record of success. Construction loans are underwritten utilizing feasibility studies, independent appraisal reviews, sensitivity analysis of absorption and lease rates and financial analysis of the developers and property owners. Construction loans are generally based upon estimates of costs and value associated with the complete project. These estimates may be inaccurate. Construction loans often involve the disbursement of considerable funds with repayment substantially dependent on the success of the ultimate project. Sources of repayment for these types of loans may be pre-committed permanent loans from approved long-term lenders, sales of developed property or an interim loan commitment from the Company until permanent financing is obtained. These loans are closely monitored by on-site inspections and are considered to have higher risks than other real estate loans due to their ultimate repayment being sensitive to interest rate changes, supply and demand, government regulation of real property, general economic conditions and the availability of long-term financing.
We generally require multifamily real estate loan borrowers to have an existing relationship with the Company, a record of success and guarantor financial strength, commensurate with the project size. The underlying feasibility of a multifamily project is stress tested for sensitivity to both capitalization and interest rate changes. Each project is underwritten separately and additional underwriting standards are required for the guarantors, which include, but are not limited to, a maximum loan-to-value percentage, global cash flow analysis and contingent liability analysis. Sources of repayment for these types of loans may be rent rolls or sales of the developed property, either by unit or as a whole.
Consumer and residential loan originations utilize analytics to supplement the underwriting process. To monitor and manage consumer loan risk, policies and procedures are developed and modified, as needed. This monitoring, coupled with relatively small loan amounts that are spread across many individual borrowers, minimizes risk. Additionally, trend, sensitivity analysis, shock analysis and outlook reports are reviewed by management on a regular basis. Underwriting standards for home equity loans are heavily influenced by statutory requirements, which include, but are not limited to, a maximum loan-to-value percentage, collection remedies, the number of such loans a borrower can have at one time and documentation requirements.
We perform periodic reviews on various segments of our loan portfolio in addition to presenting our larger loan relationships for loan committee review. We utilize an independent company to perform a periodic review to evaluate and validate our credit risk program. Results of these reviews are presented to management and our board. Additionally, we are subject to annual examination by our regulators. The loan review process complements and reinforces the risk identification and assessment decisions made by lenders and credit personnel, as well as our policies and procedures.
We have an established methodology to determine the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses that assesses the risks and losses inherent in the loan portfolio. This methodology begins with a look at the three loan types; commercial, real estate, and consumer. Loans within the commercial and real estate categories are evaluated on an individual or relationship basis and assigned a risk grade based on the characteristics of the loan or relationship. Loans within the consumer type are assigned risk grades and evaluated as a pool, unless specifically identified through delinquency or other signs of credit deterioration, at which time the identified loan would be individually evaluated.
We designate loans within our loans held for investment portfolio as either “pass” or “watch list” based on nine numerical risk grades which are assigned to the loans. A loan classified as "pass" is fundamentally sound with risk factors that are considered reasonable and acceptable. Loans classified as "watch list" fall into two categories; special mention and substandard. Special mention loans are the highest level of "watch list". These loans have the capacity to perform but contain certain characteristics that require continual supervision and attention from the lender. Loans classified as substandard typically have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses that could jeopardize the orderly liquidation of the debt, leaving the Bank with potential exposure to loss. The numeric designations in the "pass" category, from highest to lowest are: minimal, modest, average, acceptable, and acceptable with care. The "watch list" category from highest to lowest are: special mention, substandard, doubtful and loss.
“Pass”
“Watch List”
1 Minimal
6 Special mention
2 Modest
7 Substandard
3 Average
8 Doubtful
4 Acceptable
9 Loss
5 Acceptable with care
 

15


Special mention loans and substandard loans may or may not be classified as nonaccrual, based on current performance. A loan risk graded as doubtful is classified as nonaccrual. A loan risk graded as loss is generally charged-off when identified. There were no loans in our portfolio classified as doubtful or loss at March 31, 2016 or December 31, 2015 . Watch list graded loans or relationships are evaluated individually to determine if all, or a portion, of our investment in the borrower is at risk. If a risk is quantified, a specific loss allowance is assigned to the identified loan or relationship. We evaluate our investment in the borrower using either the present value of expected future cash flows, discounted at the historical effective interest rate of the loan, or for a collateral-dependent loan, the fair value of the underlying collateral.
We evaluate additional risk inherent in our satisfactory risk grade groups through a methodology that looks at these loans on a pool basis by loan segment which is further delineated by purpose. Each segment is assigned an expected loss factor based on a moving average “look-back” at our historical losses for that particular segment. At March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 the "look-back" period was twenty quarters. We believe this methodology provides an accurate evaluation of the potential risk in our portfolio because delineation by purpose establishes a direct correlation to areas of weakness and strength within the portfolio.
Additional metrics, in the form of environmental risk factors, may be applied to a specific class or risk grade of loans within the portfolio based on local or national trends, identifiable events or other economic factors. For the periods presented, five internal and four external environmental factors were applied to the general risk grade groups. The five internal factors are specific to Monarch with regard to lending policies and practices, nature, volume and term of various portfolios, experience level and depth of management, changes in loan quality and concentrations of credits. The four external environmental factors focus on legal and regulatory impacts, changes in economic conditions, competitive pressures and uncertainties surrounding pending governmental actions and their impact on areas within our footprint. The assumptions used to determine the allowance are reviewed to ensure their theoretical foundation, data integrity, computational processes, and reporting practices are appropriate and properly documented.
We utilize various sources in assessing the economic conditions in our target markets and areas of concentration. We track unemployment trends in both Hampton Roads and Virginia compared to the national average. We monitor trends in our industry and among our peers through reports such as the Uniform Bank Performance Report which are made available to us through the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council. Additionally, we utilize various industry sources that include information published by CB Richard Ellis, an international firm specializing in commercial real estate reporting and Costar, a provider of commercial real estate information and analytics to monitor local, state and national trends.
We evaluate the adequacy of our allowance for loan losses quarterly. A degree of imprecision or uncertainty is inherent in our allowance estimates because it requires that we incorporate a range of probable outcomes which may change from period to period. It requires that we exercise judgment as to the risks inherent in our portfolios, economic uncertainties, historical loss and other subjective factors, including industry trends. No single statistic or measurement determines the adequacy of the allowance for loan loss. Changes in the allowance for loan loss and the related provision expense can materially affect net income.
The following table segregates our portfolio between pass and watch list loans, delineated by segments, within loan type for March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 . The "Weighted Average Risk Grade" looks at the dollar value per risk grade within a segment compared to the total value of that segment. All segments fall within the average to acceptable range.
 

16


  
March 31, 2016
  


Watch List


 
Weighted Average Risk Grade

Pass

Special Mention

Substandard

Total
 
Commercial
$
155,809,274


$
616,174


$
157,050


$
156,582,498

 
3.25

Real estate
 

 

 


 
 
Construction
208,218,113


837,448


353,122


209,408,683

 
3.17

Residential (1-4 family)
111,566,983


1,626,704


3,186,384


116,380,071

 
3.67

Home equity lines
56,846,979




1,374,304


58,221,283

 
4.14

Multifamily
9,503,347






9,503,347

 
3.31

Commercial
291,299,163


2,005,623


1,011,727


294,316,513

 
3.36

Real estate subtotal
677,434,585


4,469,775


5,925,537


687,829,897

 
3.42

Consumers







 
 
Consumer and installment loans
5,750,898




62,602


5,813,500

 
4.03

Overdraft protection loans
48,153






48,153

 
4.26

Loans to individuals subtotal
5,799,051




62,602


5,861,653

 
4.03

Total gross loans
$
839,042,910


$
5,085,949


$
6,145,189


$
850,274,048

 
3.39

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
December 31, 2015



Watch List


 
Weighted Average Risk Grade
  
Pass

Special Mention

Substandard

Total
 
Commercial
$
157,818,177


$
233,073


$
21,448


$
158,072,698

 
3.24

Real estate
 
 
 
 
 


 
 
Construction
189,254,940


710,758


457,294


190,422,992

 
3.18

Residential (1-4 family)
108,692,612


1,075,477


3,510,229


113,278,318

 
3.71

Home equity lines
57,657,772




1,439,835


59,097,607

 
4.15

Multifamily
11,590,641






11,590,641

 
3.56

Commercial
288,533,180


1,007,152


990,751


290,531,083

 
3.39

Real estate subtotal
655,729,145


2,793,387


6,398,109


664,920,641

 
3.46

Consumers







 
 
Consumer and installment loans
6,291,430




65,043


6,356,473

 
4.03

Overdraft protection loans
118,690




2,527


121,217

 
4.76

Loans to individuals subtotal
6,410,120




67,570


6,477,690

 
4.04

Total gross loans
$
819,957,442


$
3,026,460


$
6,487,127


$
829,471,029

 
3.42


An aging of our loan portfolio by class as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 is as follows:
 

17


Age Analysis of Past Due Loans
 
30-59 Days
Past Due
 
60-89 Days
Past Due
 
Greater
Than
90 Days
 
Total
Past Due
 
Current
 
Recorded
Investment  >
90 days and
Accruing
 
Recorded
Investment
Nonaccrual
Loans
March 31, 2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commercial
$
26,963

 
$

 
$

 
$
26,963

 
$
156,555,535

 
$

 
$

Real estate
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Construction

 

 

 

 
209,408,683

 

 

Residential (1-4 family)
2,493,943

 

 
471,347

 
2,965,290

 
113,414,781

 
104,285

 
991,340

Home equity lines
357,282

 
350,502

 
249,987

 
957,771

 
57,263,512

 

 
481,562

Multifamily

 

 

 

 
9,503,347

 

 

Commercial

 

 
370,757

 
370,757

 
293,945,756

 

 
370,757

Real estate subtotal
2,851,225

 
350,502

 
1,092,091

 
4,293,818

 
683,536,079

 
104,285

 
1,843,659

Consumers

 

 

 

 

 

 

Consumer and installment loans
32,989

 
8,826

 

 
41,815

 
5,771,685

 

 

Overdraft protection loans

 

 

 

 
48,153

 

 

Loans to individuals subtotal
32,989

 
8,826

 

 
41,815

 
5,819,838

 

 

Total gross loans
$
2,911,177

 
$
359,328

 
$
1,092,091

 
$
4,362,596

 
$
845,911,452

 
$
104,285

 
$
1,843,659

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commercial
$
99,291

 
$

 
$
21,448

 
$
120,739

 
$
157,951,959

 
$

 
$
21,448

Real estate
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Construction

 
101,677

 

 
101,677

 
190,321,315

 

 
101,677

Residential (1-4 family)
1,195,961

 
31,885

 
622,770

 
1,850,616

 
111,427,702

 
248,326

 
1,008,650

Home equity lines
316,425

 

 
249,987

 
566,412

 
58,531,195

 

 
483,859

Multifamily

 

 

 

 
11,590,641

 

 

Commercial

 
153,349

 
220,775

 
374,124

 
290,156,959

 

 
374,125

Real estate subtotal
1,512,386

 
286,911

 
1,093,532

 
2,892,829

 
662,027,812

 
248,326

 
1,968,311

Consumers

 

 

 

 

 

 

Consumer and installment loans
97,135

 
56,287

 

 
153,422

 
6,203,051

 

 

Overdraft protection loans
64

 

 

 
64

 
121,153

 

 

Loans to individuals subtotal
97,199

 
56,287

 

 
153,486

 
6,324,204

 

 

Total gross loans
$
1,708,876

 
$
343,198

 
$
1,114,980

 
$
3,167,054

 
$
826,303,975

 
$
248,326

 
$
1,989,759


      At March 31, 2016, we had nine loans totaling $3,073,874 classified as restructured loans: two commercial real estate loans totaling $1,547,792 , six residential 1-4 family loans totaling $1,463,480 , and one consumer loan for $62,602 . At March 31, 2016 , three of the residential 1-4 family loans totaling $685,009 and one of the commercial real estate loans totaling $218,208 included in our restructured loans are classified as nonaccrual. The remaining five loans are performing. We restructured one loan during the first quarter of 2016 and zero loans during the same period of 2015. We did not have any defaults on restructured loans within twelve months of restructuring during the quarter ended March 31, 2016 or 2015 .
Additional information on loans restructured during the three months ended March 31, 2016 is as follows:
Troubled Debt Restructurings
 
Number of Contracts
 
Pre-Modification Outstanding Recorded Investment
 
Post-Modification Outstanding Recorded Investment
 
Type of Concession
Quarter Ended March 31, 2016
One
 
$98,787
 
$98,787
 
Rate and Term
Quarter Ended March 31, 2015
None
 
 
 




18


Troubled Debt Restructurings That Subsequently Defaulted
 
 
Number of Contracts
  
Recorded Investment
Quarter Ended March 31, 2016
None
  
Quarter Ended March 31, 2015
None
 

A summary of the activity in the allowance for loan losses account is as follows:
Allocation of the Allowance for Loan Losses
 
 
 
 
Real Estate
March 31, 2016
 
Commercial
 
Construction
 
Residential
 
Home Equity
 
Multifamily
 
Commercial
Allowance for loan losses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Beginning balance
 
$
855,813

 
$
1,797,301

 
$
1,876,528

 
$
1,654,545

 
$
52,158

 
$
2,177,890

Charge-offs
 

 

 
(16,919
)
 

 

 

Recoveries
 
2,800

 
4,023

 
3,820

 
26,217

 

 

Provision
 
62,291

 
53,086

 
(9,819
)
 
(153,113
)
 
(9,393
)
 
7,633

Ending balance
 
$
920,904

 
$
1,854,410

 
$
1,853,610

 
$
1,527,649

 
$
42,765

 
$
2,185,523

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Individually evaluated for impairment
 
$
49,051

 
$
25,291

 
$
585,786

 
$
633,148

 
$

 
$
640,384

Collectively evaluated for impairment
 
871,853

 
1,829,119

 
1,267,824

 
894,501

 
42,765

 
1,545,139

Loans:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ending balance
 
$
156,582,498

 
$
209,408,683

 
$
116,380,071

 
$
58,221,283

 
$
9,503,347

 
$
294,316,513

Ending balance: individually evaluated for impairment
 
157,051

 
1,042,070

 
3,555,423

 
1,374,304

 

 
2,914,022

Ending balance: collectively evaluated for impairment
 
$
156,425,447

 
$
208,366,613

 
$
112,824,648

 
$
56,846,979

 
$
9,503,347

 
$
291,402,491

 
 
 
Consumers
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consumer and
Installment loans
 
Overdraft
Protection
 
Unallocated
 
Total
Allowance for loan losses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Beginning balance
 
$
96,025

 
$
3,037

 
$
373,902

 
$
8,887,199

Charge-offs
 
(3,581
)
 
(2,527
)
 

 
(23,027
)
Recoveries
 

 

 

 
36,860

Provision
 
1,136

 
(304
)
 
48,483

 

Ending balance
 
$
93,580

 
$
206

 
$
422,385

 
$
8,901,032

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Individually evaluated for impairment
 
$
62,602

 
$

 
$

 
$
1,996,262

Collectively evaluated for impairment
 
30,978

 
206

 
422,385

 
6,904,770

Loans:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ending balance
 
$
5,813,500

 
$
48,153

 
$

 
$
850,274,048

Ending balance: individually evaluated for impairment
 
62,602

 

 

 
9,105,472

Ending balance: collectively evaluated for impairment
 
$
5,750,898

 
$
48,153

 
$

 
$
841,168,576


19


 
 
 
 
Real Estate
December 31, 2015
 
Commercial
 
Construction
 
Residential
 
Home Equity
 
Multifamily
 
Commercial
Allowance for loan losses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Beginning balance
 
$
1,157,867

 
$
1,678,022

 
$
2,456,418

 
$
1,911,634

 
$
85,056

 
$
1,458,664

Charge-offs
 
(207,059
)
 
(17,500
)
 
(658,953
)
 
(70,042
)
 

 

Recoveries
 
599,359

 
69,624

 
27,941

 
194,861

 

 

Provision
 
(694,354
)
 
67,155

 
51,122

 
(381,908
)
 
(32,898
)
 
719,226

Ending balance
 
$
855,813

 
$
1,797,301

 
$
1,876,528

 
$
1,654,545

 
$
52,158

 
$
2,177,890

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Individually evaluated for impairment
 
$
21,448

 
$
112,963

 
$
568,424

 
$
688,596

 
$

 
$
644,162

Collectively evaluated for impairment
 
834,365

 
1,684,338

 
1,308,104

 
965,949

 
52,158

 
1,533,728

Loans:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ending balance
 
$
158,072,698

 
$
190,422,992

 
$
113,278,318

 
$
59,097,607

 
$
11,590,641

 
$
290,531,083

Ending balance: individually evaluated for impairment
 
21,448

 
1,148,363

 
3,743,313

 
1,439,835

 

 
2,901,513

Ending balance: collectively evaluated for impairment
 
$
158,051,250

 
189,274,629

 
$
109,535,005

 
$
57,657,772

 
$
11,590,641

 
$
287,629,570

 
 
 
Consumers
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consumer and
Installment loans
 
Overdraft
Protection
 
Unallocated
 
Total
Allowance for loan losses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Beginning balance
 
$
104,661

 
$
260

 
$
96,255

 
$
8,948,837

Charge-offs
 
(1,869
)
 

 

 
(955,423
)
Recoveries
 

 
2,000

 

 
893,785

Provision
 
(6,767
)
 
777

 
277,647

 

Ending balance
 
$
96,025

 
$
3,037

 
$
373,902

 
$
8,887,199

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Individually evaluated for impairment
 
$
65,043

 
$
2,527

 

 
$
2,103,163

Collectively evaluated for impairment
 
30,982

 
510

 
373,902

 
6,784,036

Loans:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ending balance
 
$
6,356,473

 
$
121,217

 
$

 
$
829,471,029

Ending balance: individually evaluated for impairment
 
65,043

 
2,527

 

 
9,322,042

Ending balance: collectively evaluated for impairment
 
$
6,291,430

 
$
118,690

 
$

 
$
820,148,987

A loan is considered impaired when, based on current information and events; it is probable a creditor will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. All amounts due according to the contractual terms means both the contractual interest payments and the contractual principal payments of a loan will be collected as scheduled in the loan agreement. In addition to loans 90 days past due and still accruing, nonaccrual loans and restructured loans, all loans risk graded doubtful or substandard qualify, by definition, as impaired. Loans 90 days past due and accruing totaling $104,285 and nonaccrual loans totaling $1,843,659 are included in impaired loans at March 31, 2016. Loans 90 days past due and still accruing totaling $248,326 and nonaccrual loans totaling $1,989,759 are included in impaired loans at December 31, 2015.

There was one residential real estate property totaling $14,886 in the process of foreclosure at March 31, 2016 and one residential real estate property totaling $45,844 in process of foreclosure at December 31, 2015.


20


The following table sets forth our impaired loans at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 .
Impaired Loans
 
With No Related Allowance
  
Recorded
Investment
 
Unpaid Principal
Balance
 
Average Recorded
Investment
 
Interest Income
Recognized
March 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Commercial
$

 
$

 
$

 
$

Real estate
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Construction
926,779

 
926,779

 
928,999

 
15,241

Residential (1-4 family)
1,846,940

 
1,912,394

 
1,859,892

 
16,181

Home equity lines
428,009

 
446,348

 
428,211

 
1,295

Multifamily

 

 

 

Commercial
913,458

 
918,844

 
919,299

 
11,057

Consumers
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consumer and installment loans

 

 

 

Overdraft protection loans

 

 

 

Total
$
4,115,186

 
$
4,204,365

 
$
4,136,401

 
$
43,774

December 31, 2015
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Commercial
$

 
$

 
$

 
$

Real estate
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Construction
930,955

 
930,955

 
947,162

 
64,402

Residential (1-4 family)
1,850,482

 
1,912,515

 
1,942,407

 
63,532

Home equity lines
445,092

 
461,134

 
456,349

 
6,862

Multifamily

 

 

 

Commercial
894,603

 
899,189

 
921,147

 
50,773

Consumers
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consumer and installment loans

 

 

 

Overdraft protection loans

 

 

 

Total
$
4,121,132

 
$
4,203,793

 
$
4,267,065

 
$
185,569

 
With Related Allowance
  
Recorded
Investment
 
Unpaid Principal
Balance
 
Related
Allowance
 
Average Recorded
Investment
 
Interest Income
Recognized
March 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Commercial
$
157,051

 
$
157,051

 
$
49,051

 
$
159,166

 
$
1,790

Real estate
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Construction
115,291

 
115,291

 
25,291

 
115,988

 
3,346

Residential (1-4 family)
1,708,483

 
1,857,841

 
585,786

 
1,723,975

 
12,149

Home equity lines
946,295

 
946,295

 
633,148

 
947,136

 
5,204

Multifamily

 

 

 

 

Commercial
2,000,564

 
2,012,409

 
640,384

 
2,003,974

 
22,325

Consumers
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consumer and installment loans
62,602

 
62,602

 
62,602

 
64,157

 
559

Overdraft protection loans

 

 

 

 

Total
$
4,990,286

 
$
5,151,489

 
$
1,996,262

 
$
5,014,396

 
$
45,373

December 31, 2015
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Commercial
$
21,448

 
$
21,448

 
$
21,448

 
$
26,406

 
$
568

Real estate
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Construction
217,408

 
244,963

 
112,963

 
228,737

 
10,325

Residential (1-4 family)
1,892,831

 
2,032,255

 
568,424

 
1,909,161

 
66,605

Home equity lines
994,743

 
994,743

 
688,596

 
997,110

 
42,663

Multifamily

 

 

 

 

Commercial
2,006,910

 
2,016,187

 
644,162

 
1,699,033

 
60,710

Consumers
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consumer and installment loans
65,043

 
65,043

 
65,043

 
70,199

 
2,461

Overdraft protection loans
2,527

 
2,527

 
2,527

 
2,787

 
629

Total
$
5,200,910

 
$
5,377,166

 
$
2,103,163

 
$
4,933,433

 
$
183,961



21


NOTE 7. FAIR VALUE ACCOUNTING
Fair Value Hierarchy and Fair Value Measurement
We group our assets and liabilities that are recorded at fair value in three levels, based on the markets in which the assets and liabilities are traded and the reliability of the assumptions used to determine fair value. These levels are:
Level 1 – Valuations based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Since valuations are based on quoted prices that are readily and regularly available in an active market, valuation of these products does not entail a significant degree of judgment.
Level 2 – Valuations based on quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-based valuations for which all significant assumptions are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data.
Level 3 – Valuations based on unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities. Valuations are determined using pricing models and discounted cash flow models and includes management judgment and estimation which may be significant.
The following table presents our assets and liabilities related to continuing operations, which are measured at fair value on a recurring basis for each of the fair value hierarchy levels, as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 :
 
  
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using
 
Fair Value
 
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant Other
Observable
Inputs (Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs (Level 3)
Description
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assets at March 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Investment securities—available for sale
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. government agency obligations
$
22,919,352

 
$

 
$
22,919,352

 
$

Mortgage-backed securities
954,839

 

 
954,839

 

Municipal securities
2,995,079

 

 
2,995,079

 

Mortgage loans held for sale
189,131,150

 

 
189,131,150

 

Derivative financial asset
3,440,793

 

 
3,440,793

 

Derivative financial liability
$
1,545,380

 
$

 
$
1,545,380

 
$

Assets at December 31, 2015
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Investment securities—available for sale
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. government agency obligations
$
26,236,245

 
$

 
$
26,236,245

 
$

Mortgage-backed securities
998,389

 

 
998,389

 

Municipal securities
2,978,496

 

 
2,978,496

 

Mortgage loans held for sale
169,345,205

 

 
169,345,205

 

Derivative financial asset
2,105,204

 

 
2,105,204

 

Derivative financial liability
$
368,577

 
$

 
$
368,577

 
$


The following table provides quantitative disclosures about the fair value measurements of our assets related to continuing operations which are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 .
 
  
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using
Description
Fair Value
 
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant Other
Observable
Inputs (Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs  (Level 3)
At March 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Restructured and impaired loans, net
$
2,994,024

 
$

 
$

 
$
2,994,024

At December 31, 2015
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Restructured and impaired loans, net
$
3,097,747

 
$

 
$

 
$
3,097,747



22


There were no residential real estate properties classified as other real estate at March 31, 2016 ,or December 31, 2015.
The following table displays quantitative information about Level 3 Fair Value Measurements for March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 .
 
Fair Value Measurement at March 31, 2016
 
Fair Value
 
Valuation Technique
 
Unobservable Inputs
 
Weighted Average
Commercial
$
108,000

 
Market comparables
 
Discount applied to market comparables (1)
 
20
%
Real Estate
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Construction
90,000

 
Market comparables
 
Discount applied to market comparables (1)
 
30
%
Residential (1-4 family)
1,122,697

 
Market comparables
 
Discount applied to market comparables (1)
 
17
%
Home equity lines
313,147

 
Market comparables
 
Discount applied to market comparables (1)
 
20
%
Multifamily

 
Market comparables
 

 
100
%
Commercial
1,360,180

 
Market comparables
 
Discount applied to market comparables (1)
 
30
%
Consumer
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consumer and installment loans

 

 

 
100
%
Total restructures and impaired loans
$
2,994,024

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fair Value Measurement at December 31, 2015
 
Fair Value
 
Valuation Technique
 
Unobservable Inputs
 
Weighted Average
Commercial
$

 
Market comparables
 
Discount applied to market comparables (1)
 
100
%
Real Estate
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Construction
104,445

 
Market comparables
 
Discount applied to market comparables (1)
 
35
%
Residential (1-4 family)
1,324,407

 
Market comparables
 
Discount applied to market comparables (1)
 
18
%
Home equity lines
306,147

 
Market comparables
 
Discount applied to market comparables (1)
 
20
%
Multifamily

 
Market comparables
 
Discount applied to market comparables (1)
 
100
%
Commercial
1,362,748

 
Market comparables
 
Discount applied to market comparables (1)
 
30
%
Consumer
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consumer and installment loans

 
Market comparables
 
Discount applied to market comparables (1)
 
100
%
Total restructures and impaired loans
$
3,097,747

 
 
 
 
 
 
(1) A discount percentage is applied based on age of independent appraisals, current market conditions, and experience within the local markets.
For the three months ended March 31, 2016 , we recorded $0 gains and losses on the sale of other real estate owned. For the three months ended March 31, 2015 , we reported no gains and a loss of $38,879 . Gains or losses on sale of other real estate owned are included in foreclosed property expense.
At the time a loan secured by real estate becomes real estate owned, we record the property at fair value net of estimated selling costs. Upon foreclosure and through liquidation, we evaluate the property’s fair value as compared to its carrying amount and record a valuation adjustment when the carrying amount exceeds fair value. Any valuation adjustments at the time a loan becomes real estate owned is charged to the allowance for loan losses. Any subsequent valuation adjustments are applied to earnings in our consolidated statements of income. No valuation adjustments related to other real estate owned were recorded in the three months ended March 31, 2016 or 2015. Adjustments, when necessary, are included in foreclosed property expense.
Valuation Methods
The following notes summarize the significant assumptions used in estimating the fair value of financial instruments:
Short-term financial instruments are valued at their carrying amounts and included in the Company’s balance sheet, which are reasonable estimates of fair value due to the relatively short period to maturity of the instruments. This approach applies to cash and cash equivalents and overnight borrowings .
Investment securities – available-for-sale are valued at quoted market prices, if available. For securities for which no quoted market price is available, we estimate the fair value on the basis of quotes for similar instruments or other available information. Investment securities classified as available-for-sale are reported at their estimated fair value with unrealized gains and losses

23


reported in accumulated other comprehensive income. To the extent that the cost basis of investment securities exceeds the fair value and the unrealized loss is considered to be other than temporary, an impairment charge is recognized and the amount recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income or loss is reclassified to earnings as a realized loss. The specific identification method is used in computing realized gains or losses.
Mortgage loans held for sale are recorded at their fair value when originated and reevaluated quarterly, based on our expected return from the secondary market.
Loans held for investment are valued on the basis of estimated future receipts of principal and interest, which are discounted at various rates. Loan prepayments are assumed to occur at the same rate as in previous periods when interest rates were at levels similar to current levels. Future cash flows for homogeneous categories of consumer loans, such as motor vehicle loans, are estimated on a portfolio basis and discounted at current rates offered for similar loan terms to new borrowers with similar credit profiles.
The carrying amounts of accrued interest approximate fair value.
Interest rate lock commitments ("IRLC") are recorded at fair value, which is based on estimated future receipts net of estimated future expenses when the underlying loan is sold on the secondary market, using observable Level 2 market inputs, reflecting current market inputs as of the measurement date.
Bank owned life insurance represents insurance policies on officers of the Bank. The cash values of the policies are estimated using information provided by insurance carriers. These policies are carried at their cash surrender value, which approximates the fair value.
The fair value of demand deposits and deposits with no defined maturity is taken to be the amount payable on demand at the reporting date. The fair value of fixed-maturity deposits is estimated using rates currently offered for deposits of similar remaining maturities. The intangible value of long-term relationships with depositors is not taken into account in estimating the fair values disclosed.
The fair value of Level 2 borrowings is determined based on quoted prices from FHLB for borrowings with similar characteristics and maturities. The determination of the fair value of Level 3 borrowings is made using pricing models and discounted cash flow models, and includes management judgment and estimation, which may be significant.
Derivative financial instruments are recorded at fair value using observable Level 2 market inputs related to:
Loans held for sale forward sales commitments are recorded at their fair value based on the estimated number of days remaining in the IRLC at the measurement date and expected return from the secondary market. Forward mortgage loan sales commitments are recorded at their fair value based on the gain or loss that would occur if the loan were paired off with an investor at measurement date. A derivative asset of $3,440,793 and a derivative liability of $1,545,380 related to loans held for sale were recorded at March 31, 2016 . At December 31, 2015 , a derivative asset of $1,514,083 and a derivative liability of $1,195,405 were recorded.
Real Estate Owned is carried at the fair value less estimated selling costs. Upon foreclosure and through liquidation, we evaluate the property's fair value as compared to its carrying amount and record a valuation adjustment when the carrying amount exceeds fair value less selling costs. Any valuation adjustments at the time a loan becomes real estate owned is charged to the allowance for loan losses. Fair value is determined through an appraisal conducted by an independent, licensed appraiser outside of the Bank using observable market data (Level 2). When evaluating fair value, management may discount the appraisal further if, based on their understanding of the market conditions, it is determined the collateral is further impaired below the appraisal value (Level 3). Any subsequent valuation adjustments are applied to earnings in our consolidated statements of income. We did not record any losses due to valuation adjustments for the three months ended March 31, 2016 or 2015. We recorded no losses due to valuation adjustments on real estate owned within foreclosed property expense in the year ended December 31, 2015 .
Restructured and Impaired Loans measurement is generally based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan's effective interest rate, unless in the case of collateral-dependent loans, the observable market price, or the fair value of the collateral can be readily determined. The value of real estate collateral is determined utilizing an income or market valuation approach based on an appraisal conducted by an independent, licensed appraiser outside of the Bank using observable market data (Level 2). When evaluating fair value, management may discount the appraisal further if, based on their understanding of the market conditions, it is determined the collateral is further impaired below the appraised value (Level 3). The value of business equipment is based upon an outside appraisal if deemed significant, or the net book value on the applicable business’ financial statements if not considered significant using observable market data. Likewise, values for inventory and accounts

24


receivables collateral are based on financial statement balances or aging reports (Level 3). Restructured and impaired loans are periodically reevaluated to determine if additional adjustments to the carrying value are necessary.
It is not practicable to separately estimate the fair values for off-balance-sheet credit commitments, including standby letters of credit and guarantees written, due to the lack of cost-effective reliable measurement methods for these instruments.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The following table presents the carrying amounts and fair value of our financial instruments at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 . GAAP defines the fair value of a financial instrument as the amount at which the instrument could be exchanged in a current transaction between willing parties, other than through a forced or liquidation sale for purposes of this disclosure. The carrying amounts in the table are included in the balance sheet under the indicated captions.
 
 
 
Fair Value Measurements at March 31, 2016, using
 
Carrying Value
 
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
 
Significant Other
Observable
Inputs
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs 
 
 
 
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Balance
Assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
86,797,604

 
$
86,797,604

 
$

 
$

 
$
86,797,604

Investment securities available for sale
26,869,270

 

 
26,869,270

 

 
26,869,270

Mortgage loans held for sale
189,131,150

 

 
189,131,150

 

 
189,131,150

Loans held for investment (net)
841,153,269

 

 

 
852,849,014

 
852,849,014

Accrued interest receivable
2,172,860

 

 
2,172,860

 

 
2,172,860

Bank owned life insurance
10,795,735

 

 
10,795,735

 

 
10,795,735

Derivative financial assets
3,440,793

 

 
3,440,793

 

 
3,440,793

Liabilities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Deposits
$
1,063,411,226

 
$

 
$
1,061,154,192

 
$

 
$
1,061,154,192

Borrowings
10,000,000

 

 

 
6,243,249

 
6,243,249

Accrued interest payable
71,222

 

 
71,222

 

 
71,222

Derivative financial liabilities
1,545,380

 

 
1,545,380

 

 
1,545,380

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2015 using
 
Carrying Value
 
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
 
Significant Other
Observable
Inputs
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs 
 
 
 
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Balance
Assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
73,879,510

 
$
73,879,510

 
$

 
$

 
$
73,879,510

Investment securities available for sale
30,213,130

 

 
30,213,130

 

 
30,213,130

Loans held for sale
169,345,205

 

 
169,345,205

 

 
169,345,205

Loans held for investment (net)
820,382,106

 

 

 
834,345,931

 
834,345,931

Accrued interest receivable
2,110,108

 

 
2,110,108

 

 
2,110,108

Bank owned life insurance
10,634,814

 

 
10,634,814

 

 
10,634,814

Derivative financial assets
2,105,204

 
 
 
2,105,204

 
 
 
1,514,083

Liabilities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Deposits
$
999,093,598

 
$

 
$
996,519,992

 
$

 
$
996,519,992

Borrowings
26,000,000

 

 
16,000,000

 
6,184,750

 
22,184,750

Accrued interest payable
104,517

 

 
104,517

 

 
104,517

Derivative financial liability
368,577

 

 
368,577

 

 
368,577

NOTE 8. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION
In May 2014, Monarch stockholders ratified the adoption of the Monarch Bank 2014 Equity Incentive Plan (2014EIP), a stock-based compensation plan which succeeds the Monarch Bank 2006 Equity Incentive Plan (2006EIP). The 2006EIP had succeeded the Monarch Bank 1999 Incentive Stock Option Plan (1999ISO) and was the only plan under which equity-based compensation could be awarded. Like the 2006EIP, the 2014EIP authorizes the compensation committee to grant options, stock

25


appreciation rights, stock awards, performance stock awards, and stock units to designated directors, officers, key employees, consultants and advisers to the Company and its subsidiaries.
The 2014EIP authorized the Company to issue up to 1,100,000 shares of Monarch Common Stock plus the number of shares of our common stock outstanding under the predecessor plans. The Plan also provides that no award may be granted more than 10 years after the May 2014 ratification date.
As of March 31, 2016 , 1,818,460 shares were available for grants under all plans. A total of 437,440 shares are outstanding, all of which are non-vested restricted stock, subject to outstanding awards under the 2006EIP and 1999ISO. Restricted stock typically vests over a 60 month period. Total compensation costs are recognized over the service period to vesting.
No additional options were granted in the periods covered. There were no options outstanding in the first quarter of 2016. There were 18,999 options exercised in the first quarter of 2015. No options on shares were forfeited in the first quarter of 2016 or 2015.
Compensation expense related to our restricted stock totaled $215,763 in the first quarter of 2016. Remaining vesting periods are between 3 and 57 months with unrecognized remaining compensation expense of $2,224,025 . We issued no shares of restricted stock in the first quarter of 2016 . No shares vested in the first quarter of 2016. There were 3,600 shares forfeited in the first quarter of 2016.
Share amounts have been restated to include the 11 for 10 stock dividend announced October 22, 2015 and payable December 4, 2015.
NOTE 9. SEGMENT REPORTING
Reportable segments include community banking and mortgage banking services. Community banking involves making loans to and generating deposits from individuals and businesses in the markets in which we have offices. Mortgage banking originates residential loans and subsequently sells them to investors. Our mortgage banking segment is a strategic business unit that offers different products and services. It is managed separately because the segment appeals to different markets and, accordingly, requires different technology and marketing strategies.
Beginning with the third quarter of 2015 and for all periods reported, the financial presentation for reportable segments has been modified to assist the reader in understanding the components of the segments. Funding for mortgage banking services' loans held for sale (LHFS) portfolio is provided by community banking services. For segmentation purposes the community banking segment charges the mortgage banking segment interest on average LHFS balances outstanding at a rate of the three month average 30 day London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) plus 250 basis points .
The mortgage banking segment’s most significant revenue and expense is non-interest income and non-interest expense, respectively. Under the mortgage banking segment we have broken out "forward rate commitments and unrealized hedge gain (loss)" because these represent changes in the our derivative position. Our derivative position is impacted quarterly by the number and dollar volume of loans locked with a borrower but not closed, changes in the market value of notional security sales, and the delivery method utilized for closed but not committed loans.
In the event of early payment default, Monarch has recorded a reserve for loan repurchases which totaled $3,270,361 at March 31, 2016 and $3,287,667 at December 31, 2015. Our reserve for loan repurchases is not a part of our loan loss reserve and is carried in other liabilities. This reserve, which is an estimate of the potential for losses based on investor contracts, is not an indication that losses will occur and is periodically analyzed and adjusted through income.
We do not have other reportable operating segments. (The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies in Note 1 of our annual 10-K.) All inter-segment sales prices are market based.
Segment information for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015 is shown in the following tables.


26


Selected Financial Information
Community Banking Segment
 
Quarter Ended March 31,
Income:
2016
 
2015
Interest income
$
12,106,934

 
$
10,999,638

Non-interest income
1,311,126

 
1,214,983

Total operating income
13,418,060

 
12,214,621

Expenses:
 
 
 
Interest expense
(912,119
)
 
(737,081
)
Provision for loan losses

 
(250,000
)
Personnel expense
(4,239,267
)
 
(4,673,468
)
Other non-interest expenses
(3,061,018
)
 
(3,047,925
)
Total operating expenses
(8,212,404
)
 
(8,708,474
)
Income before income taxes
5,205,656

 
3,506,147

Provision for income taxes
(1,903,459
)
 
(1,273,769
)
Less: Net income attributable to non-controlling interests
(12,430
)
 
(15,905
)
Net income attributable to community banking segment
$
3,289,767

 
$
2,216,473

 
 
 
 
Mortgage Banking Segment
 
Quarter Ended March 31,
Income:
2016
 
2015
Interest income
$
1,411,908

 
$
1,307,036

Non-interest income
17,742,535

 
18,294,663

Total operating income
19,154,443

 
19,601,699

Expenses:
 
 
 
Interest expense
(1,101,016
)
 
(921,104
)
Personnel expense
(13,158,454
)
 
(13,471,018
)
Other non-interest expenses
(4,302,382
)
 
(4,496,033
)
Total operating expenses
(18,561,852
)
 
(18,888,155
)
Net operating income
592,591

 
713,544

Forward rate commitments and unrealized hedge gain
665,109

 
1,267,129

Income before income taxes
1,257,700

 
1,980,673

Provision for income taxes
(459,881
)
 
(719,571
)
Less: Net income attributable to non-controlling interests
(30,877
)
 
(16,368
)
Net income attributable to mortgage banking segment
$
766,942

 
$
1,244,734

Consolidated Statements of Income
 
Quarter Ended March 31,
Income:
2016
 
2015
Interest income
$
12,417,826

 
$
11,385,570

Non-interest income
20,329,434

 
22,266,163

Total operating income
32,747,260

 
33,651,733

Expenses:
 
 
 
Interest expense
(912,119
)
 
(737,081
)
Provision for loan losses

 
(250,000
)
Personnel expense
(17,873,752
)
 
(19,039,414
)
Other non-interest expenses
(7,498,033
)
 
(8,138,418
)
Total operating expenses
(26,283,904
)
 
(28,164,913
)
Income before income taxes
6,463,356

 
5,486,820

Provision for income taxes
(2,363,340
)
 
(1,993,340
)
Less: Net income attributable to non-controlling interests
(43,307
)
 
(32,273
)
Net income attributable to Monarch Financial Holdings, Inc.
$
4,056,709

 
$
3,461,207

 
 
 
 


27


Elimination entries:
 
 
 
 
Interest income
 
(1,101,016
)
 
(921,104
)
Interest expense
 
1,101,016

 
921,104

Non-interest income
 
(1,275,773
)
 
(2,756,517
)
Personnel expense
 
476,031

 
894,928

Other non-interest expenses
 
134,633

 
594,460

Forward rate commitments and unrealized hedge gain (loss)
 
(665,109
)
 
(1,267,129
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Community Banking
 
Mortgage Banking
 
Elimination entries
 
Consolidated
Segment Assets

 

 

 

March 31, 2016
$
1,028,854,561

 
$
215,838,288

 
$
(32,185,481
)
 
$
1,212,507,368

December 31, 2015
$
996,432,802

 
$
192,062,857

 
$
(27,047,504
)
 
$
1,161,448,155

Capital Expenditures
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
March 31, 2016
$
26,434

 
$
82,199

 
$

 
$
108,633

December 31, 2015
$
1,359,215

 
$
424,271

 
$

 
$
1,783,486


NOTE 10. GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives are recorded at cost and reviewed at least annually for impairment based on evidence of certain impairment indicators. Intangible assets with identifiable lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives. The were no intangible assets at March 31, 2016 .
Information concerning goodwill is presented in the following table:
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
Goodwill
$
775,000

 
$
775,000


Goodwill is related the acquisition of a Maryland mortgage office plus certain other mortgage related assets in August 2007. Intangible assets related to this acquisition were fully amortized in 2014.

NOTE 11. DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES
Commitments to fund certain mortgage loans (interest rate locks) to be sold into the secondary market and forward commitments for the future delivery of mortgage loans to third party investors are considered derivatives. It is the Company's practice to enter into forward commitments for the future delivery of residential mortgage loans when interest rate lock commitments are entered into in order to economically hedge the effect of changes in interest rates resulting from its commitments to fund the loans. These mortgage derivatives are not designated in hedge relationships. At March 31, 2016, the Company had approximately $251 million of interest rate lock commitments and $369 million of forward commitments for the future delivery of residential mortgage loans. The fair value of these mortgage banking derivatives was reflected by a derivative asset of $3,440,793 and a derivative liability of $1,545,380 . At year-end 2015, the Company had approximately $227 million of interest rate lock commitments and $244 million of forward commitments for the future delivery of residential mortgage loans. The fair value of these mortgage banking derivatives was reflected by a derivative asset of $2,105,204 and a derivative liability of $368,577 . Fair values were estimated based on changes in mortgage interest rates from the date of the commitments. Changes in the fair values of these mortgage banking derivatives are included in net gains on sales of loans.
The net gains (losses) relating to free-standing derivative instruments used for risk management are summarized below as of March 31:
 
Location
March 31, 2016
March 31, 2015
Forward contracts related to mortgage loans held for sale
Mortgage banking revenue
$
(570,179
)
$
(394,324
)
Interest rate lock commitments
Mortgage banking revenue
$
1,235,290

$
1,661,453




28


The following table reflects the amount and market value of mortgage banking derivatives included in the Consolidated Statements of Condition as of the period end:
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
Notional
 
Fair
 
Notional
 
Fair
 
Amount
 
Value
 
Amount
 
Value
Included in other assets (1)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Forward contracts related to interest rate lock commitments and mortgage loans held for sale (2)
$
73,880,034

 
$
263,199

 
$
145,232,095

 
$
615,123

Interest rate lock commitments
246,671,447

 
3,154,781

 
210,260,999

 
1,490,081

Hedge positions
55,750,000

 
22,813

 

 

Total included in other assets
 
 
$
3,440,793

 
 
 
$
2,105,204

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Included in other liabilities (1)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Forward contracts related to interest rate lock commitments and mortgage loans held for sale (2)
$
295,314,954

 
$
994,010

 
$
98,680,765

 
$
238,583

Interest rate lock commitments
4,510,785

 
58,831

 
16,489,999

 
76,856

Hedge positions
78,358,191

 
492,539

 
76,632,817

 
53,138

Total included in other assets
 
 
$
1,545,380

 
 
 
$
368,577

(1)
The Notional amount of mortgage banking derivatives is an off balance sheet item and only the fair value of the derivatives is recorded within the Consolidated Statements of Condition.
(2)
Certain forward sales commitments do no qualify under applicable accounting guidance as derivative instruments; however, the Company has elected the fair value option under ASC 825-10-15-4(b) for the loans held for sale portfolio and thus fair value adjustments have been recorded in the derivative asset and derivative liability as presented above.
NOTE 12. LOW INCOME HOUSING TAX CREDITS
The Company has invested in two housing equity funds at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015. The general purpose of these funds is to encourage and assist participants in investing in low-income residential rental properties located in the Commonwealth of Virginia, develop and implement strategies to maintain projects as low-income housing, deliver Federal Low Income Housing Credits to investors, allocate tax losses and other possible tax benefits to investors, and to preserve and protect project assets. One housing equity investment is still in the formation stages so annual capital calls and tax credits are undetermined at this date. The Company accounts for these investments under the proportional amortization method and at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the investment in these funds, recorded in other assets on the consolidated statement of condition, was $933,842 and $944,475 , respectively, with $10,633 of tax credits and other tax benefits related to these investments recognized on the consolidated statements of income in the first quarter of 2016, and $0 as of March 31, 2015. Total projected tax credits to be received for 2016 are $41,267 , based on the most recent quarterly estimates received for the fully established fund. Additional capital calls expected for the funds totals $949,000 at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, and are included in other liabilities on the consolidated statement of condition.
NOTE 13. COMMON STOCK REPURCHASE

On September 24, 2015 we announced the Board of Monarch Financial Holdings, Inc., had approved the repurchase of up to five percent, or approximately 653,400 shares, of the Company's outstanding common stock. The repurchase program, which will expire September 22, 2016, may be conducted through open market purchases or privately negotiated transactions. The timing and actual number of shares repurchased will depend on market conditions and other factors.
Actual repurchase activity was conducted between October 1, 2015 and December 31, 2015 at a total cost of $797,919 . There were 0 shares of common stock repurchased in the first quarter of 2016 and 65,590 shares of common stock repurchased through December 31, 2015. There were 587,810 shares of common stock available for future purchase at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015.

29


Period 2015
 
Total Number of Common Shares Repurchased
 
Total Remaining Common Shares Available for Repurchase
October 1 through October 31
 
23,290

 
630,110

November 1 through November 23
 
42,300

 
587,810



NOTE 14. SUBSEQUENT EVENT

On April 21, 2016, we announced the Board had approved a quarterly common stock cash dividend of $0.09 per share for common shareholders of record on May 10, 2016, payable on May 27, 2016.


30


ITEM 2.

MONARCH FINANCIAL HOLDINGS, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion supplements and provides information about the major components of the results of operations, financial condition, liquidity and capital resources of the Company. This discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and supplemental financial data.
A significant amount of our income is generated from the net interest income earned by Monarch Bank. Net interest income is the difference between interest income and interest expense. Interest income depends on the average amount of interest-earning assets outstanding during the period and the interest rates thereon. Monarch Bank’s cost of money is a function of the average amount of deposits and borrowed money outstanding during the period and the interest rates paid thereon. The quality of our assets further influence the amount of interest income lost due to non-accrual loans and the amount of additions to the allowance for loan losses.
We also generate income from non-interest sources. Non-interest income sources include fee income from residential and commercial mortgage sales, bank related service charges, fee income from the sale of investment and insurance services, fee income from title services, income from bank owned life insurance (BOLI) and company owned life (COLI) policies, as well as gains or losses from the sale of investment securities.
This report contains forward-looking statements with respect to our financial condition, results of operations and business. These forward-looking statements include statements regarding our profitability, liquidity, allowance for loan losses, interest rate sensitivity, market risk, growth strategy, and financial and other goals. The words “believes,” “expects,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “projects,” “contemplates,” “anticipates,” “forecasts,” “intends,” or other similar words or terms are intended to identify forward-looking statements.
These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and are based on the beliefs and assumptions of our management and on information available at the time these statements and disclosures were prepared. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those expected include the following:
Costs and difficulties related to the proposed merger, including, among other things, the integration of our business with TowneBank, the inability to retain key personnel, competitive response to the proposed merger, or potential adverse reactions of changes to business or employee relationships could be more significant than we anticipate, resulting in higher costs or reduced benefits.
Failure of the merger to be completed on the proposed terms and schedule, or at all.
General economic conditions may deteriorate and negatively impact the ability of borrowers to repay loans and depositors to maintain balances.
Changes in interest rates could reduce income.
Competitive pressures among financial institutions may increase.
The businesses that we are engaged in may be adversely affected by legislative or regulatory changes, including changes in accounting standards.
New products developed or new methods of delivering products could result in a reduction in our business and income.
Adverse changes may occur in the securities market.
Other factors described from time to time in our reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
This section should be read in conjunction with the description of our “Risk Factors” in Part I, Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 .




31


CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Critical accounting policies are those applications of accounting principles or practices that require considerable judgment, estimation, or sensitivity analysis by management. In the financial service industry, examples, though not an all inclusive list, of disclosures that may fall within this definition are the determination of the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses, valuation of derivatives or securities without a readily determinable market value, and the valuation of the fair value of intangibles and goodwill. Except for the determination of the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses, derivative financial instrument estimations and fair value estimations related to foreclosed real estate, we do not believe there are other practices or policies that require significant sensitivity analysis, judgments, or estimations.
Our financial statements are prepared in accordance with GAAP. The financial information contained within our statements is, to a significant extent, financial information that is based on measures of the financial effects of transactions and events that have already occurred. A variety of factors could affect the ultimate value that is obtained when earning income, recognizing an expense, recovering an asset or relieving a liability. In addition, GAAP itself may change from one previously acceptable method to another method. Although the economics of our transactions would be the same, the timing of events that would impact our transactions could change.
Our critical accounting policies are listed below. A summary of our significant accounting policies is set forth in Item 8, Note 1 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 .
Allowance for Loan Losses
Our allowance for loan losses is an estimate of the losses that may be sustained in our loan portfolio. The allowance is based on GAAP guidance which requires that losses be accrued when they have a probability of occurring and are estimable and that losses be accrued based on the differences between the value of collateral, present value of future cash flows or values that are observable in the secondary market and the loan balance.
Our allowance for loan losses has three basic components: the formula allowance, the specific allowance and the unallocated allowance. Each of these components is determined based upon estimates that can and do change when the actual events occur. The formula allowance uses a historical loss view as an indicator of future losses along with various economic factors and, as a result, could differ from the loss incurred in the future. However, since this history is updated with the most recent loss information, the errors that might otherwise occur may be mitigated. The specific allowance uses various techniques to arrive at an estimate of loss for specifically identified loans. Historical loss information, expected cash flows and fair value of collateral are used to estimate these losses. The unallocated allowance captures losses whose impact on the portfolio have occurred but have yet to be recognized in either the formula or specific allowance. The use of these values is inherently subjective, and our actual losses could be greater or less than the estimates.
Derivative Financial Instruments
We may use derivatives to manage risks related to interest rate movements. Interest rate swap contracts designated and qualifying as cash flow hedges are reported at fair value. The gain or loss on the effective portion of the hedge initially is included as a component of other comprehensive income and is subsequently reclassified into earnings when interest on the related debt is paid. We document our risk management strategy and hedge effectiveness at the inception of and during the term of each hedge. Our interest rate risk management strategy is to stabilize cash flow requirements by maintaining interest rate swap contracts to convert variable-rate debt to a fixed rate. We did not hold any interest rate swap contracts at March 31, 2016 or December 31, 2015 . We do not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading purposes.
Commitments to fund mortgage loans are Interest Rate Lock Commitments (IRLC) to be sold into the secondary market and forward commitments for the future delivery of these mortgage loans are free standing derivatives. The fair value of the interest rate lock is recorded at the end of the financial reporting period and adjusted for the expected exercise of the commitment before the loan is funded. In order to hedge the change in interest rates resulting from its commitments to fund the loans, the Company enters into forward commitments for the future delivery of mortgage loans. Fair value of these mortgage derivatives are estimated based on changes in mortgage interest rates from the date the interest on the loan is locked. Changes in the fair value of these derivatives are included in net gains on sale of loans.
We participated in a “mandatory” delivery program for mortgage loans in all periods presented. Under the mandatory delivery system, loans with interest rate locks are paired with the sale of a notional security bearing similar attributes. Interim income or loss on the pairing of the loans and securities is recorded in mortgage banking income on our income statement. In addition, at the time the loan is delivered to an investor, matched securities are repurchased and a gain or loss on the pairing is recorded in mortgage banking income on our income statement. We had $98.6 million in the mandatory delivery program at March 31, 2016 and $72.8 million at December 31, 2015 .

32


Fair Value Measurements
Under GAAP we are permitted to choose or required to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at fair value. The estimation of fair value is significant to certain assets, including loans held-for-sale, available-for-sale securities, and foreclosed real estate owned. These assets are recorded at fair value or lower of cost or fair value, as applicable. The fair values of loans held-for-sale are based on commitments from investors. The fair values of available-for-sale securities are based on published market or dealer quotes for similar securities. The fair values of rate lock commitments are based on net fees currently charged to enter into similar agreements. The fair value of foreclosed real estate owned is estimated based on current appraisals, but may be further adjusted based upon our evaluation of the fair value of similar properties.
Fair values can be volatile and may be influenced by a number of factors, including market interest rates, prepayment speeds, discount rates, and market conditions, among others. Since these factors can change significantly and rapidly, fair values are difficult to predict and subject to material changes that could impact our financial condition and results of operation.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Net Income
Our consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, the Bank and its subsidiaries, after all significant inter-company transactions have been eliminated. Net income attributable to our non-controlling interests were deducted from net income to arrive at net income attributable to Monarch Financial Holdings. Non-controlling interests' net income was $43 thousand and $32 thousand in the first quarters of 2016 and 2015, respectively. The ensuing references and ratios are related to net income attributable to Monarch Financial Holdings, Inc., (hereon referred to as "net income") after net income attributable to non-controlling interests has been deducted.
Net Income Attributable to Monarch Financial Holdings, Inc.
 
For the Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
Net income
$
4,100,016

 
$
3,493,480

Less: Net income attributable to non-controlling interests
(43,307
)
 
(32,273
)
Net income attributable to Monarch Financial Holdings, Inc.
$
4,056,709

 
$
3,461,207

Net income for the first quarter ended March 31, 2016 was $4.1 million, an increase of $596 thousand or 17.2% over the same quarter in 2015 . Basic and diluted earnings per share for the first quarter of 2016 and 2015 were $0.34 and $0.29, respectively. Two important and commonly used measures of profitability are return on assets (net income as a percentage of average total assets) and return on equity (net income as a percentage of average stockholders’ equity). Our annualized return on assets (ROA) for the three months ended March 31, 2016 was 1.42%, compared to 1.31% in 2015. Our annualized return on equity (ROE) for the first quarter of 2016 was 13.73% compared to 12.98% in 2015 .
Net interest income increased $857 thousand driven by an increase in interest income. Non-interest income declined $1.9 million and non-interest expense declined $1.8 million. Lower mortgage banking income and related commissions were the primary source of the declines on both non-interest income and non-interest expense.
We did not record a loan loss provision in the first quarter of 2016 but recorded a loan loss provision of $250 thousand in the first quarter of 2015. We reported recoveries in excess of charge offs of $14 thousand in the first quarter of 2016 and net charge offs of $555 thousand in the first quarter of 2015.
Net Interest Income
Net interest income, which is the excess of interest income over interest expense, is a major source of banking revenue. A number of factors influence net interest income, including the interest rates earned on earning assets, and the interest rates paid to obtain funding to support the assets, the average volume of interest-earning assets and interest bearing liabilities, and the mix of interest-earning assets and interest bearing liabilities.
The Federal Reserve Bank’s Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC), which shapes monetary policy through managing the short term money supply with the Federal Funds Rate and long term rates through the purchase and sale of various types of securities, increased the the Federal Funds Rate in December 2015 by 0.25%. This was the first short term rate increase since June 2006. While this increase has had a marginal impact on short term interest income and expense, long term rates have been less impacted because of global economics. Economic instability and uncertainties, primarily in Europe and Asia, have impacted long term rates as many foreign investors continue to purchase U.S. Treasuries in a flight to safety. These purchases keep the money

33


supply flowing and long term rates low, despite FOMC efforts. Predictions about the next possible rate increase vary, but the general consensus is there will be at least one more 0.25% increase in 2016. Competition between banks and other lending sources for high quality loans remains strong with borrowers targeting longer term funding at, or below, the current market rates. Many lenders are accepting these terms while offering higher interest rates on the funding side. Through all of this Monarch has been maintaining the discipline that has kept credit quality strong and earnings consistent throughout our history and we believe our balance sheet is adequately positioned for a response to any rate changes that occur.
Net interest income was $11.5 million in the first quarter of 2016 compared to $10.6 million, one year prior. This is an $857 thousand, or 8.1% increase over the first quarter of 2015. Interest income increased $1.0 million, or 9.1% driven by an $849 thousand increase in interest and fees on loans held for investment (LHFI). Interest expense also increased in the first quarter of 2016 by $175 thousand, or 23.7%, driven by an $186 thousand increase in interest expense on deposits.
Our greatest earning assets are loans which are comprised of two major portfolio classifications: mortgage loans held for sale (LHFS) and loans held for investment (LHFI). Both portfolios provided growth in interest income in the first quarter of 2016 compared to 2015.
LHFI are commercial, real estate, and consumer loans originated and maintained on the Bank's books. Average loans were $834 million in the first quarter of 2016, an increase of $68 million compared to $765 million in the first quarter of 2015. Interest income increased $849 thousand in the quarter compared to 2015. Average yield decreased 5 basis point in the first quarter of 2016 to 5.16% compared to 5.21% in 2015.
LHFS, which are residential mortgages originated by our mortgage division and sold to investors, earn interest while on our books but at rates typically lower than our loans held for investment portfolio. This portfolio is also subject to greater fluctuations in outstanding balances due to a combination of market demand, economic conditions and the prevailing mortgage rates. Mortgage balances in the first quarter of 2016 were $30 million less than the first quarter of 2015. Despite lower volume, interest income on our mortgage loans held for sale was $1.4 million in the first quarter of 2016, $105 thousand, or 8.0% higher than the first quarter of 2015. Average yield increased 11basis points to 4.01% in the first quarter of 2016 compared to 3.90% in 2015.
Income on all other interest bearing assets increased $34 thousand in 2016 compared to 2015. The increase was volume driven with greatest growth in securities and deposits in other banks.
Interest expense increased $175 thousand, or 23.7% in the first quarter of 2016 compared to 2015, driven by interest expense on money market savings and time deposits. Interest-bearing deposit volume increased $39.8 million to $719.8 million from $679.9 million. Average volume in money market accounts declined $6.1 million while interest expense on these accounts increased $71 thousand due to a 9 basis point increase in rates to 0.39% from 0.30%. Time deposit volume increased $114 million, on average while interest rates increased 7 basis points to 0.68% from 0.61%. Average borrowing volume declined $9.4 million while the average cost of borrowing increased 67 basis points, driven by an increase in LIBOR rates associated with our trust preferred borrowing. Interest bearing liabilities increased 7 basis points to 0.50% from 0.43%, one year prior.
For analytical purposes, net interest income is adjusted to a taxable equivalent basis to recognize the income tax savings on tax-exempt assets, such as bank owned life insurance (BOLI) and company owned life insurance (COLI) and state and municipal securities. A tax rate of 35% was used in both 2016 and 2015 when adjusting interest on BOLI, COLI and tax-exempt securities to a fully taxable equivalent basis. The difference between rates earned on interest-earning assets (with an adjustment made to tax-exempt income to provide comparability with taxable income, i.e. the FTE adjustment) and the cost of the supporting funds is measured by net interest margin.
Our net interest rate spread on a tax-equivalent basis decreased 9 basis points in the quarter to 4.10% from 4.19% in 2015. Our net interest margin for the first quarter of 2016 was 4.27%, a decrease of 5 basis points from 4.32% in 2015.
BOLI and COLI have been included in interest earning assets. We purchased $6.0 million in BOLI in 2005, an additional $2.0 million in BOLI during the third quarter of 2014. In 2015 we purchased an additional $255 thousand in BOLI and $449 thousand in COLI. We have purchased $121 thousand in COLI through the first quarter of 2016. Volatility in the market can impact COLI yield and has adversely impacted the yield through 2016. Income on BOLI and COLI is not subject to federal income tax, giving it a tax-effective yield of 2.33% for the first quarter of 2016 compared to 4.37% in 2015.
The following tables set forth average balances of total interest earning assets and total interest bearing liabilities for the periods indicated, showing the average distribution of assets, liabilities, stockholders’ equity and the related income, expense and corresponding weighted average yields and costs.


34


The following is an analysis of net interest income, on a taxable equivalent basis.

NET INTEREST INCOME ANALYSIS
(in thousands)
For the Quarter Ended March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
 
Average
Balance
 
Income/
Expense
 
Yield
Rate (1)
 
Average
Balance
 
Income/
Expense
 
Yield
Rate (1)
 
Average
Balance
 
Income/
Expense
 
Yield
Rate (1)
ASSETS
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Securities, at amortized cost (2)
$
29,428

 
$
115

 
1.57
%
 
$
21,107

 
$
94

 
1.81
%
 
$
27,800

 
$
81

 
1.18
%
Loans, held for investment
833,853

 
10,690

 
5.16
%
 
765,635

 
9,840

 
5.21
%
 
698,645

 
9,479

 
5.50
%
Mortgage loans, held for sale
141,478

 
1,412

 
4.01
%
 
136,084

 
1,307

 
3.90
%
 
70,856

 
773

 
4.42
%
Federal funds sold
3,295

 
4

 
0.49
%
 
16,481

 
8

 
0.20
%
 
72,318

 
40

 
0.22
%
Dividend-earning restricted equity securities
3,432

 
45

 
5.27
%
 
3,633

 
39

 
4.35
%
 
3,622

 
30

 
3.36
%
Deposits in other banks
68,760

 
156

 
0.91
%
 
56,713

 
102

 
0.73
%
 
30,257

 
36

 
0.48
%
Bank owned life insurance (2)
10,698

 
62

 
2.33
%
 
9,736

 
105

 
4.37
%
 
7,432

 
89

 
4.86
%
Total earning assets
1,090,944

 
12,484

 
4.60
%
 
1,009,389

 
11,495

 
4.62
%
 
910,930

 
10,528

 
4.69
%
Less: Allowance for loan losses
(8,694
)
 
 
 
 
 
(8,891
)
 
 
 
 
 
(9,085
)
 
 
 
 
Nonperforming loans
3,952

 
 
 
 
 
6,016

 
 
 
 
 
6,073

 
 
 
 
Other non-earning assets
63,238

 
 
 
 
 
64,067

 
 
 
 
 
62,897

 
 
 
 
Total assets
$
1,149,440

 
 
 
 
 
$
1,070,581

 
 
 
 
 
$
970,815

 
 
 
 
LIABILITIES and STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest-bearing deposits:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Demand
$
59,870

 
$
17

 
0.11
%
 
$
54,776

 
$
17

 
0.13
%
 
$
49,265

 
$
19

 
0.16
%
Savings
19,064

 
14

 
0.30
%
 
19,931

 
13

 
0.26
%
 
22,743

 
22

 
0.39
%
Money market savings
359,278

 
345

 
0.39
%
 
364,473

 
274

 
0.30
%
 
371,388

 
349

 
0.38
%
Time deposits
281,563

 
478

 
0.68
%
 
240,764

 
364

 
0.61
%
 
200,342

 
444

 
0.90
%
Total interest-bearing deposits
719,775

 
854

 
0.48
%
 
679,944

 
668

 
0.40
%
 
643,738

 
834

 
0.53
%
Borrowings
11,652

 
58

 
2.00
%
 
21,049

 
69

 
1.33
%
 
11,174

 
137

 
4.97
%
Total interest-bearing liabilities
731,427

 
$
912

 
0.50
%
 
700,993

 
$
737

 
0.43
%
 
654,912

 
$
971

 
0.60
%
Non-interest-bearing liabilities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Demand deposits
283,531

 
 
 
 
 
246,041

 
 
 
 
 
205,231

 
 
 
 
Other non-interest-bearing liabilities
15,624

 
 
 
 
 
15,373

 
 
 
 
 
12,298

 
 
 
 
Total liabilities
1,030,582

 
 
 
 
 
962,407

 
 
 
 
 
872,441

 
 
 
 
Stockholders’ equity
118,858

 
 
 
 
 
108,174

 
 
 
 
 
98,374

 
 
 
 
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
$
1,149,440

 
 
 
 
 
$
1,070,581

 
 
 
 
 
$
970,815

 
 
 
 
Net interest income (2)
 
 
$
11,572

 
 
 
 
 
$
10,758

 
 
 
 
 
$
9,557

 
 
Interest rate spread (2)(3)
 
 
 
 
4.10
%
 
 
 
 
 
4.19
%
 
 
 
 
 
4.09
%
Net interest margin (2)(4)
 
 
 
 
4.27
%
 
 
 
 
 
4.32
%
 
 
 
 
 
4.25
%

(1)
Yields are annualized and based on average daily balances.
(2)
Income and yields are reported on a taxable equivalent basis assuming a federal tax rate of 35%, with a $26,760 adjustment for 2016, a $41,828 adjustment for 2015 and a $36,355 adjustment for 2014.
(3)
Represents the differences between the yield on total average earning assets and the cost of total interest-bearing liabilities.
(4)
Represents the ratio of net interest-earnings to the average balance of interest-earning assets.




35


Rate/Volume Analysis
The goal of a rate/volume analysis is to compare two or more periods to determine whether the difference between those periods is the result of changes in rate, or volume, or some combination of the two. This is achieved through a “what if” analysis. We calculate what the potential income would have been in the new period if the prior period rate had remained unchanged, and compare that result to what the income would have been in the prior period if the current rates were in effect. Through the analysis of these income potentials, we are able to determine how much of the change between periods is the impact of differing rates and how much is volume driven.
For discussion purposes, our “Rate/Volume Analysis” and “Net Interest Income Analysis” tables include tax equivalent income on bank owned life insurance (BOLI) and municipal securities that are not in compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principals (GAAP). The following table is a reconciliation of our income statement presentation to these tables.
RECONCILIATION OF NET INTEREST INCOME
TO TAX EQUIVALENT INTEREST INCOME
 
Non-GAAP
For the Quarter Ended March 31,
  
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Interest income:
 
 
 
 
 
Total interest income
$
12,417,826

 
$
11,385,570

 
$
10,434,083

Bank owned life insurance
39,990

 
67,954

 
57,773

Tax equivalent adjustment (35% tax rate)
 
 
 
 
 
Bank owned life insurance
21,533

 
36,591

 
31,109

Municipal securities
5,227

 
5,237

 
5,246

Adjusted income on earning assets
12,484,576

 
11,495,352

 
10,528,211

Interest expense:
 
 
 
 
 
Total interest expense
912,119

 
737,081

 
971,112

Net interest income—adjusted
$
11,572,457

 
$
10,758,271

 
$
9,557,099

 
Adjusted net interest income increased $814 thousand in the first quarter of 2016 compared to 2015. Net interest income in 2015 was $1.2 million higher than 2014. Interest income increased $990 thousand in the 2016 and 967 thousand in 2015 when compared to prior year. Interest expense increased $175 thousand in 2016 compared to 2015 interest expense after declining $233 thousand in 2015 compared to 2014.
Changes in Net Interest Income (Rate/Volume Analysis)
Net interest income is the product of the volume of average earning assets and the average rates earned, less the volume of average interest-bearing liabilities and the average rates paid. The portion of change relating to both rate and volume is allocated to each of the rate and volume changes based on the relative change in each category.
Interest earning asset growth provided $984 thousand in interest earnings in 2016 while changes in rate provided an additional $5 thousand for a total contribution of $989 thousand. The primary contributor to this increase was our loans held for investment portfolio which provided an additional $850 thousand in interest in 2016. Loans held for sale contributed an additional $105 thousand.
Interest expense increased $175 thousand in the first quarter of 2016 driven by increased rates. Interest expense on deposits increased $186 thousand, $123 thousand of which was due to increases in rates during the quarter. Money market and time deposit accounts were the source of the increase.
Interest income growth in 2015 compared to 2014 was driven by volume. Interest income increased $967 thousand due to growth in both loans held for sale and loans held for investment. A portion of the interest benefit related to growth was reduced due to lower yields on the new volume. Interest expense declined $234 thousand in 2015 compared to 2014 driven by lower rates on money market and time deposit accounts and borrowings.
The following table analyzes the changes in both rate and volume components of net interest income on a tax equivalent basis.



36


RATE / VOLUME ANALYSIS
(in thousands)
   
For the Quarter Ended March 31,
 
2016 vs. 2015
 
2015 vs. 2014
   
Interest
Increase
(Decrease)
 
Change
Attributable to
 
Interest
Increase
(Decrease)
 
Change
Attributable to
   
Rate
 
Volume
 
Rate
 
Volume
Interest income
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Securities
$
21

 
$
(13
)
 
$
34

 
$
13

 
$
36

 
$
(23
)
Loans held for investment
850

 
(25
)
 
875

 
361

 
(517
)
 
878

Mortgage loans held for sale
105

 
52

 
53

 
534

 
(102
)
 
636

Federal funds sold
(4
)
 
6

 
(10
)
 
(32
)
 
(4
)
 
(28
)
Dividend-earning restricted equity securities
6

 
8

 
(2
)
 
9

 
9

 

Deposits in other banks
54

 
30

 
24

 
66

 
24

 
42

Bank owned life insurance
(43
)
 
(53
)
 
10

 
16

 
(10
)
 
26

Total interest income
$
989

 
$
5

 
$
984

 
$
967

 
$
(564
)
 
$
1,531

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest expense
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Deposits:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Demand
$

 
(2
)
 
2

 
$
(2
)
 
(4
)
 
2

Savings
1

 
2

 
(1
)
 
(9
)
 
(7
)
 
(2
)
Money market
71

 
75

 
(4
)
 
(75
)
 
(69
)
 
(6
)
Time
114

 
48

 
66

 
(80
)
 
(159
)
 
79

Total deposits
186

 
123

 
63

 
(166
)
 
(239
)
 
73

Borrowings
(11
)
 
27

 
(38
)
 
(68
)
 
(141
)
 
73

Total interest expense
175

 
150

 
25

 
(234
)
 
(380
)
 
146

Net interest income
$
814

 
$
(145
)
 
$
959

 
$
1,201

 
$
(184
)
 
$
1,385


Non-Interest Income
Non-interest income was $20.3 million in the first quarter of 2016, a decrease of $1.9 million, or 8.7% from the first quarter of 2015. Mortgage banking income, which is our largest source of non-interest income, was the primary source of the change. Non-interest income is broken out into more detail in the following table.

NON-INTEREST INCOME
  
For the Quarter Ended March 31,
  
2016
 
2015
Mortgage banking income
$
19,018,308

 
$
21,063,679

Service charges and fees
500,139

 
516,554

Title company income
215,603

 
232,771

Bank owned life insurance income
39,990

 
67,954

Investment and insurance commissions
478,576

 
344,126

(Loss) gain on sale of assets
(97
)
 
35,011

Other
76,915

 
6,068

 
$
20,329,434

 
$
22,266,163

Mortgage banking income represents fees from originating and selling residential mortgage loans. Mortgage banking income declined $2.0 million in the first quarter due to lower volume. The following table summarizes quarterly mortgage loan production for the first quarter of 2016 compared to 2015.

37


Mortgage Banking Income
 
 
2016
 
2015
 
 
Number
Dollar Volume (000s)
Purchase
 
Number
Dollar Volume (000s)
Purchase
First Quarter
 
1,766

$
457,891

70.3
%
 
1,840

$
487,423

53.0
%
Second Quarter
 


%
 
2,356

605,599

66.0
%
Third Quarter
 


%
 
2,053

527,514

82.7
%
Fourth Quarter
 

$

%
 
1,768

$
468,606

75.7
%
Year to Date
 
1,766

$
457,891

70.3
%
 
8,017

$
2,089,142

72.3
%
Investment and insurance income increased $134 thousand in the first quarter of 2016. Income from Monarch Bank Private Wealth ("MBPW") is derived from a combination of new business and fees on existing business. MBPW offers products and services and asset management through affiliation with Raymond James Financial Services, Inc.
Service charges and fees on deposit accounts declined $16 thousand in the first quarter of 2016 compared to 2015 driven by lower service charges. The primary components of service charges and fees are non-sufficient fund and overdraft fees and ATM transaction fees and merchant service fees. Income growth is attributable to increases in our demand deposit products, year over year and increased merchant service income. We offer a credit card product through a third party vendor which has added to fee income. Monarch has an agreement with a third-party vendor to brand ATMs in Food Lion grocery stores in southeast Virginia and northeast North Carolina. In return for supplying the cash for the machines and paying the machines’ cash servicing fees, we receive a portion of the transaction surcharge, and our customers can withdraw cash from the machines without a fee or transaction surcharge. We have 12 ATMs located at our banking center sites. Combined with our third-party vendor relationship, our network includes 50 active branded ATMs.
Through Monarch Investment, LLC, we own a 75% interest in a title company, Real Estate Security Agency, LLC (RESA), which is being treated as a consolidated entity for accounting purposes. RESA's income declined $17 thousand in the first quarter of 2016 compared to 2015 driven by lower volume.
Income from bank owned life insurance (BOLI) and company owned life insurance (COLI) declined $27 thousand in the quarter when compared to 2015 due to market volatility associated with COLI and the purchase of additional insurance discussed previously.
Non-interest Expense
Total non-interest expenses declined $1.8 million to $25.4 million in the first quarter of 2016 compared to 2015. Net overhead expense, which is the difference between non-interest income and non-interest expense, declined $131 thousand in the first quarter of 2016 when compared to prior year.
The following table summarizes our non-interest expense for the periods indicated:
 

38


NON-INTEREST EXPENSE
  
For the Quarter Ended March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
Salaries and employee benefits
$
10,142,860

 
$
9,594,276

Commissions and incentives
7,730,892

 
9,445,138

Loan expense
1,793,662

 
2,458,663

Occupancy expenses, net of rental income
1,453,405

 
1,446,833

Furniture and equipment expense
820,076

 
841,675

Marketing expense
774,401

 
746,227

Data processing services
613,954

 
629,750

Professional fees
525,258

 
258,601

Telephone
351,731

 
325,746

FDIC Insurance
131,099

 
134,741

Stationery and supplies
86,941

 
114,986

Virginia Franchise Tax
224,481

 
207,869

Postage and shipping
80,823

 
100,733

Travel expense
148,224

 
128,944

ATM expense
90,842

 
90,400

Insurance expense
40,749

 
110,739

Title expense
31,189

 
38,495

Other real estate expense

 
16,402

Rental income, other real estate

 
(1,955
)
Loss on sale of other real estate, net

 
38,879

Other
331,198

 
450,690

 
$
25,371,785

 
$
27,177,832

Employee compensation; in the form of salaries, benefits, commissions and incentives, represent approximately 70.5% of non-interest expense in the first quarter of 2016 compared to 70.1% in 2015. The number of full time equivalent employees at March 31, 2016 totaled 648 compared to 642 one year prior. Salaries and benefits increased $549 thousand, quarter over quarter driven by annual salary increases and profit sharing compensation expense. A change in the compensation mix of several highly compensated employees made later in 2015 also contributed to higher salary expense. Commissions and incentives decreased $1.7 million in the quarter driven by lower mortgage loans held for sale production and modifications made to that compensation in light of the pending merger with TowneBank. A significant number of our mortgage division employees are commission based.
Professional fees increased quarter over quarter because of changes made after the first quarter of 2015 with regard to outsourced audits which resulted in higher expenses. Director fees increased in 2016 compared to 2015 due a change in the timing of certain compensation. Loan expense is driven by the mortgage volume which, as previously noted, is down quarter over quarter.
We do not have any properties in other real estate at March 31, 2016. We had one property in other real estate at March 31, 2015. During the first quarter of 2015, one property was moved to other real estate and another property was sold at a loss of $38,879.
The following summary identifies non-interest expenses with the most significant quarter-over-quarter change.
 
  
Change - Increase (Decrease)
For the Three  Months Ended
September 30, 2015
 
Dollars
 
Percentage
Salaries and employee benefits
$
548,584

 
5.7
 %
Professional fees
266,657

 
103.1
 %
Loan expense
(665,001
)
 
(27.0
)%
Commissions and incentives
(1,714,246
)
 
(18.1
)%
Income Statement Impact of Forward Rate Commitments and Unrealized Hedge Gain (Loss)
Included in mortgage banking income, commissions and incentives, and loan expense are accruals for changes in income related to interest rate lock commitments, and fair value adjustments related to hedging. The offset for these accruals are found

39


in the consolidated statements of condition. These accounting estimates, which are required by GAAP, create volatility in our financial statements because they accelerate earnings recognition and are driven by volume changes and market conditions. These unrealized estimates are made at a specified point in time and do not necessarily reflect the actual income or losses that will occur. Realized gains and losses from hedge activities are carried separately and included in mortgage banking income.
Interest rate lock commitments are a commitment at a specific rate to an identified potential borrower for a specified time period in the future. That specified time period is typically between 15 and 45 days from the date of initial lock. Although they represent a guaranteed commitment by the bank to a potential borrower, they do no represent an actual closed loan and that potential borrower may decide not to borrow from us at any time until the lock expires. Based on GAAP, unearned income and expenses related to these commitments must be recorded on our consolidated statements of income at quarter end, as if the loans had closed. Changes in the number and dollar volume of these commitments between quarters has a direct impact on earnings. If the number and dollar volume declines between measurement periods, rate lock income will most likely decline, whereas, an increase in number and dollar volume will most likely create an increase in income. Additionally, because the income or loss is an unrealized estimate with consolidated statements of condition offset, year to date measurements are impacted by reversals of prior period end levels.
For mortgage loans committed to our mandatory delivery program, loans with interest rate locks are paired with the sale of a notional security bearing similar attributes. The assumption is the two products will move in direct correlation in opposite directions and thereby reduce the risk of pricing movements. Interim income or losses on the pairing of the loans and securities is recorded in mortgage banking income on our consolidated statements of income with offset in our consolidated statements of condition. As with forward rate commitments, volume changes can impact the dollar value of notional shares between periods and an uncoupling of the mortgage market with the securities market due to volatility can impact the fair value of the securities. Year to date measurements are impacted by prior year levels because of the reversal of the accrual.
Loans in our mandatory delivery program that have closed but have not been committed to an investor are also required to be reported as if sold to an investor. A unrealized gain or loss on the loan is recorded in consolidated statements of income with offset to the consolidated statements of condition based on the market rate for a similar product at the measurement date.
The following summary identifies the components in non-interest income and non-interest expense related to forward rate commitments and unrealized hedge gain (loss) found in our consolidated statements of income with offset in our consolidated statements of condition:
 
Quarter Ended March 31,
Non-interest income:
2016
 
2015
Hedge income (loss)
$
(153,591
)
 
$
(456,064
)
Mark to market hedge income (loss)
(416,588
)
 
61,740

Rate lock income (expense)
1,845,952

 
3,150,841

Change in non-interest income
1,275,773

 
2,756,517

Non- interest expense:
 
 
 
Rate lock commissions
(476,031
)
 
(894,928
)
Rate lock loan expense
(134,633
)
 
(594,460
)
Change in non-interest (expense)
(610,664
)
 
(1,489,388
)
Forward rate commitments and unrealized hedge gain (loss)
665,109

 
1,267,129

Income Taxes
Our federal income tax provision was $2.3 million in the first quarter of 2016 compared to $2.0 million in the first quarter of 2015 . State income tax provision for the states of Maryland, North Carolina and South Carolina totaled $106 thousand in both quarters.
BOLI income and certain municipal securities are not subject to federal income tax. We had tax exempt income of $80 thousand in the first quarter of 2016 and $78 thousand in the first quarter of 2015.
Certain expenses related to marketing and executive retirement plans are non-deductible for tax purposes. These non-deductible expenses totaled $307 thousand and $115 thousand in the first quarter of 2016 and 2015, respectively.
The table below presents a summary of income taxes and the effective tax rate for quarters ended March 31, 2016 and 2015 .

40


Income Tax Summary
 
For the Quarter Ended March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
Income tax provision
$
2,363,340

 
$
1,993,340

Less: state tax provision
105,840

 
105,840

Federal tax provision
$
2,257,500

 
$
1,887,500

 
 
 
 
Net income before tax
$
6,463,356

 
$
5,486,820

 
 
 
 
Effective federal tax rate
34.9
%
 
34.4
%

FINANCIAL CONDITION, LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
GENERAL
Total assets were $1.213 billion at March 31, 2016 , a $51.1 million or 4.4% increase compared to assets of $1.161 billion at December 31, 2015 . Total cash and cash equivalents were $86.8 million, an increase of $12.6 million or 17.5% over year end 2015. Mortgage loans held for sale increased $19.8 million or 11.7% and loans held for investment increased $20.8 million or 2.5%. Investment securities declined $3.3 million or 11.1%.
Cash and cash equivalents, which fluctuate daily based on our liquidity levels and mortgage settlement activity, increased $12.6 million. This increase is due to a $12.6 million increase in federal funds sold. Interest bearing bank balances increased $1.0 million. Included in interest bearing bank balances are fixed rate deposits which have maturities between one month and five years. These fixed rate deposits, which were $29.0 million at March 31, 2016, have declined $800 thousand since year end 2015.
Our mortgage loans held for sale portfolio represents mortgage loans that have been closed and are awaiting investor funding. A majority of our mortgage loans are pre-sold. These loans typically remain on our books for thirty to forty-five days. Outstanding balances, which are dependent on the current mortgage market, the timing of closings, and investor turn around, may fluctuate significantly between periods. However, general production levels typically decline in the later part of the year and increase with the approach of spring months. Outstanding loans increased $19.8 million when compared to December 2015 quarter end. Our loans held for investment portfolio which is comprised primarily of commercial loans and real estate loans increased $20.8 million in the first three months of 2016. The majority of this growth was in real estate construction, 1-4 family residential real estate and commercial real estate loans.
During the first three months of 2016, we purchased an additional $120 thousand in company owned life insurance (COLI). Income from BOLI and COLI is not subject to federal income tax. Restricted equity securities include stock in the Federal Reserve, Federal Home Loan Bank and other bankers' banks. The level of stock we retain is subject to evaluation by the various entities and may result in a periodic increase or decrease in share level. Our stock in the Federal Home Loan Bank decreased due to low borrowing levels. Investment securities declined $3.3 million due to security calls. With the impending merger, we are not purchasing additional investment securities.
Total liabilities were $1.09 billion at March 31, 2016 , an increase of $47.7 million or 4.6% from December 31, 2015 liabilities of $1.04 billion. Total deposits, which are our primary funding source, increased $64.3 million to $1,063.4 million at March 31, 2016 compared to $999.1 million at year-end 2015 . Total borrowings declined $16.0 million at March 31, 2016 compared to December 31, 2015 .
Non-interest bearing demand deposits increased $16.4 million or 5.9% in the first quarter of 2016, interest bearing demand increased $790 thousand or 1.1% and time deposits increased $49.2 million or 18.5%. Money market accounts declined $955 thousand and savings deposits declined $1.1 million.
Our non-interest bearing deposits represent 27.9% and 28.0% of our total deposits at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. Commercial and small business checking accounts comprise the largest percentage of non-interest bearing demand deposits. At March 31, 2016, commercial checking accounts increased $12.3 million over December 31, 2015 and at $187.2 million were 63% of non-interest bearing demand. Attorney escrow accounts increased $12.6 million to $29.7 million and 10% of non-interest bearing demand in the first quarter of 2016. Escrow accounts ordinarily house real estate funds, which makes them sensitive to the growth within the real estate market. Small business checking accounts declined $6.6 million to $54.6 million, 18% of non-interest bearing demand. We are primarily a business bank and, as such, have focused our efforts on obtaining company

41


operating accounts, which are demand deposit accounts. Our focus on the business sector, coupled with the growth in business operating accounts, has resulted in continued growth in demand deposits.
Interest bearing demand deposits increased $790 thousand from December 31, 2015. Interest bearing demand deposits represent 9.1% of interest bearing deposits. Money market and time deposits ("CDs") represent 88.5% and savings deposits represent 2.4%, of interest bearing deposits. Money market deposits, which were $363.9 million at March 31, 2016, decreased $955 thousand since December 31, 2015. Brokered money market deposit accounts are included in our money market totals at both March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 and declined $952 thousand since year end. We have been managing money market account growth through pricing of our multi-tiered money market product, while keeping rates attractive and highly competitive in the market. Money market accounts are the most suitable product for individuals who typically invest in non-bank products because rates are higher than demand and savings accounts but they have withdrawal features more flexible than CDs. These account features make money market accounts more subject to fluctuation based on market conditions.
Outstanding CDs increased $49.2 million to $314.8 million at March 31, 2016 compared to December 31, 2015. Included in CDs are brokered CDs which are used along with our brokered money market accounts and Federal Home Loan Bank ("FHLB") borrowings to fund our loans held for sale portfolio. The majority of these brokered CDs are Certificate of Deposit Account Registry Service ® (CDARS), which are typically short term, with maturities of between 4 and 13 weeks. However, we also house certain municipal deposits in CDARS because of the additional deposit insurance protection offered by the product. Brokered deposits increased $47.7 million at March 31, 2016 compared to December 31, 2015. Our remaining CD portfolio increased $1.5 million in the quarter. We do not actively promote our CD products as CD shoppers typically expect higher interest rates. We have focused on relationship pricing for CDs, with non-clients receiving lower rates for CDs than existing clients, thereby encouraging relationships which are beneficial to both the Bank and our clients.
Borrowings at the FHLB declined $16.0 million at March 31, 2016 compared to December 31, 2015 due to our moving LHFS funding to lower cost CDARs. When advantageous to pricing and margin management, we utilize this borrowing source to fund our loans held for sale portfolio along with CDARs.
Excluding brokered deposits, our loans held for investment to deposit ratio was 95.9% and 99.4% for March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.
Stockholders’ equity was $121.0 million at March 31, 2016 , compared to $117.7 million at December 31, 2015 . Components of the increase in stockholders’ equity include net income of $4.1 million, decrease in unrealized losses in other comprehensive income of $103 thousand, stock based compensation totaling $216 thousand, offset by common stock dividend payments of $1.1 million, and distributions to non-controlling interests of $31 thousand.

Loans Held for Investment
Our lending activities are our principal source of income. Loans held for investment, net of unearned income, increased $20.8 million or 2.5% in the first three months of 2016. Our allowance for loan losses increased $14 thousand after net recoveries of $14 thousand.
The following table provides a breakdown, by segment of our loans held for investment at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 .

42


LOANS HELD FOR INVESTMENT
 
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
Commercial
$
156,582,498

 
$
158,072,698

Real estate
 
 
 
Construction
209,408,683

 
190,422,992

Residential (1-4 family)
116,380,071

 
113,278,318

Home equity lines
58,221,283

 
59,097,607

Multifamily
9,503,347

 
11,590,641

Commercial
294,316,513

 
290,531,083

Real estate subtotal
687,829,897

 
664,920,641

Consumers
 
 
 
Consumer and installment loans
5,813,500

 
6,356,473

Overdraft protection loans
48,153

 
121,217

Loans to individuals subtotal
5,861,653

 
6,477,690

Total gross loans
850,274,048

 
829,471,029

Unamortized loan fees, net of deferred costs
(219,747
)
 
(201,724
)
Loans held for investment, net of unearned income
850,054,301

 
829,269,305

Allowance for loan losses
(8,901,032
)
 
(8,887,199
)
Total net loans
$
841,153,269

 
$
820,382,106

Allowance and Provision for Loan Losses
We have certain lending policies and procedures in place, designed to balance loan growth and income with an acceptable level of risk, which management reviews and approves on a regular basis. Our review process is supported by a series of reports related to loan production, loan quality, credit concentrations, policy exceptions, loan delinquencies and non-performing and potential problem loans. We also utilize diversification in our loan portfolio as a means of managing risk.
Inherent losses in our loan portfolio are supported by our allowance for loan losses. Management is responsible for determining the level of the allowance for loan losses, subject to review by our Board of Directors. Among other factors, we consider our historical loss experience, the size and composition of our loan portfolio, the value and adequacy of collateral and guarantors, non-performing credits including impaired loans and our risk-rating-based loan watch list, and local and national economic conditions. The economy of our trade area is well diversified. There are additional risks of future loan losses that cannot be precisely quantified or attributed to particular loans or classes of loans. Since those factors include general economic trends as well as conditions affecting individual borrowers, the allowance for loan losses is an estimate.
To determine the total allowance for loan losses, we estimate the reserves needed by analyzing loans on both, a pooled basis and individually. Our allowance for loan losses consists of amounts applicable to the following three loan types: commercial, real estate, and consumer. In addition, loans within these types are evaluated as a group or on an individual or relationship basis and assigned a risk grade based on the underlying characteristics. Loans are pooled by loan segment with loan type and losses modeled utilizing historical experience by segment, other known and inherent risks, and quantitative techniques which management has determined fit the characteristics of the loan type or segment within that type. We utilize a moving average historical loss "look back" period of twenty quarters.

The commercial loan type includes commercial and industrial loans which are usually secured by the assets being financed or other business assets such as accounts receivable or inventory and normally incorporate a personal guarantee; however, some short-term loans may be made on an unsecured basis. Commercial loans are underwritten after evaluating and understanding the borrower’s ability to operate profitably and prudently expand their business.
The real estate loan type includes all loans secured by real estate. This type is further broken down into segments. These segments are: construction loans, residential 1-4 family loans, home equity lines, multifamily loans, and commercial real estate loans. Construction and multifamily loans are underwritten utilizing feasibility studies, independent appraisal reviews, sensitivity analysis of absorption and lease rates and financial analysis of the developers and property owners. Construction loans are generally based upon estimates of costs and value associated with the completed project. Residential 1-4 family and home equity loan originations utilize analytics to supplement the underwriting process. Commercial real estate loans are subject to underwriting standards and processes similar to commercial loans, in addition to those of real estate loans. These loans are viewed primarily as cash flow loans and secondarily as loans secured by real estate.

43


Commercial and real estate portfolio loans are evaluated on an individual or relationship basis and assigned a risk grade at the time the loan is made. Additionally, we perform periodic reviews of the loan or relationship to determine if there have been any changes in the original underwriting which would change the risk grade and/or impact the borrower’s ability to repay the loan.
The consumer loan portfolio includes two classes: consumer and installment loans and overdraft protection loans. These loans, which are in relatively small loan amounts, are spread across many individual borrowers. We utilize analytics to supplement general underwriting. Loans within the consumer type are assigned risk grades and evaluated as a pool, unless specifically identified through delinquency or other signs of credit deterioration, at which time the identified loan is individually evaluated. Additionally, loans that have been specifically identified as a credit risk due to circumstances that may affect the ability of the borrower to repay interest and/or principal are analyzed on an individual basis. Adverse circumstances may include loss of repayment source, deterioration in the estimated value of collateral, elevated trends of delinquencies, and charge-offs.
We evaluate the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses monthly in order to maintain the allowance at a level that is sufficient to absorb probable credit losses. Such factors as the level and trend of interest rates and the condition of the national and local economies are also considered. From time to time, events or economic factors may affect the loan portfolio, causing management to provide additional amounts to, or release balances from, the allowance for loan losses. Our allowance for loan losses is sensitive to risk ratings assigned to individually evaluated loans, economic assumptions, and delinquency trends driving statistically modeled reserves.
There are nine numerical risk grades which are assigned to loans. These risk grades are as follows:
 
“Pass”
“Watch List”
1 Minimal
6 Special mention
2 Modest
7 Substandard
3 Average
8 Doubtful
4 Acceptable
9 Loss
5 Acceptable with care
 
The following is a breakdown between pass and watch list loans at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 . There were no loans risk graded Doubtful (8) or Loss (9) included in our portfolio at March 31, 2016 or December 31, 2015 .


44


PASS AND WATCH LIST LOANS
  
March 31, 2016
 
 
 
Watch List
 
 
 
Weighted
Average
Risk Grade
 
Pass
 
Special Mention
 
Substandard
 
Total
 
Commercial
$
155,809,274

 
$
616,174

 
$
157,050

 
$
156,582,498

 
3.25

Real estate
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Construction
208,218,113

 
837,448

 
353,122

 
209,408,683

 
3.17

Residential (1-4 family)
111,566,983

 
1,626,704

 
3,186,384

 
116,380,071

 
3.67

Home equity lines
56,846,979

 

 
1,374,304

 
58,221,283

 
4.14

Multifamily
9,503,347

 

 

 
9,503,347

 
3.31

Commercial
291,299,163

 
2,005,623

 
1,011,727

 
294,316,513

 
3.36

Real estate subtotal
677,434,585

 
4,469,775

 
5,925,537

 
687,829,897

 
3.42

Consumers
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consumer and installment loans
5,750,898

 

 
62,602

 
5,813,500

 
4.03

Overdraft protection loans
48,153

 

 

 
48,153

 
4.26

Loans to individuals subtotal
5,799,051

 

 
62,602

 
5,861,653

 
4.03

Total gross loans
$
839,042,910

 
$
5,085,949

 
$
6,145,189

 
$
850,274,048

 
3.39

 
  
December 31, 2015
 
 
 
Watch List
 
 
 
Weighted
Average
Risk Grade
 
Pass
 
Special Mention
 
Substandard
 
Total
 
Commercial
$
157,818,177

 
$
233,073

 
$
21,448

 
$
158,072,698

 
3.24

Real estate
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Construction
189,254,940

 
710,758

 
457,294

 
190,422,992

 
3.18

Residential (1-4 family)
108,692,612

 
1,075,477

 
3,510,229

 
113,278,318

 
3.71

Home equity lines
57,657,772

 

 
1,439,835

 
59,097,607

 
4.15

Multifamily
11,590,641

 

 

 
11,590,641

 
3.56

Commercial
288,533,180

 
1,007,152

 
990,751

 
290,531,083

 
3.39

 Real estate subtotal
655,729,145

 
2,793,387

 
6,398,109

 
664,920,641

 
3.46

Consumers
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Consumer and installment loans
6,291,430

 

 
65,043

 
6,356,473

 
4.03

Overdraft protection loans
118,690

 

 
2,527

 
121,217

 
4.76

Loans to individuals subtotal
6,410,120

 

 
67,570

 
6,477,690

 
4.04

Total gross loans
$
819,957,442

 
$
3,026,460

 
$
6,487,127

 
$
829,471,029

 
3.42

Additional regulatory guidance with regard to the specifications of the special mention (6) risk grade, stipulates that loans with this risk grade be treated as transitory and should not remain special mention for more than one year. We continue to monitor and evaluate loans in our special mention risk grade on a monthly basis.
We evaluate the collectability of both principal and interest when assessing the need for a loss accrual. (For additional discussion on this evaluation refer to Note 1 and Note 3 of our 2015 Annual Report on Form10-K.)
We evaluate additional risk inherent in our satisfactory risk grade groups through a methodology that looks at these loans on a pool basis by loan segment which is further delineated by purpose. Each segment is assigned an expected loss factor based on a moving average “look-back” at our historical losses for that particular segment. At March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 our model includes a twenty quarter or five year "look back". This methodology provides a supportable means of evaluating the potential risk in our portfolio because the delineation by purpose establishes a stronger focus on areas of weakness and strength within the portfolio.
This evaluation includes, but is not limited to, the application of a loss factor which is arrived at by using a multi-year moving average “look back” at our historical losses. This loss factor is multiplied by the outstanding principal of loans not individually evaluated for impairment to arrive at an overall loss estimate. Environmental factors may also be applied to a class or classes of loans based on management’s subjective evaluation of such conditions as credit quality trends, collateral values, portfolio concentrations, specific industry conditions in the regional economy, regulatory examination results, external audit and loan review findings, and recent loss experiences in particular portfolio classes. Any unallocated portion of the allowance for loan losses reflects

45


management’s attempt to ensure that the overall reserve appropriately reflects a margin for the imprecision necessarily inherent in estimates of credit losses.
The allowance is subject to regulatory examinations and determination as to adequacy. This examination may take into account such factors as the methodology used to calculate the allowance and the size of the allowance in comparison to peer banks identified by regulatory agencies.
We recorded no provision for loan losses in the first quarter of 2016 but we recorded a $250 thousand provision during the same period of 2015. Based on the current economic environment and the composition of our loan portfolio, the level of our charged-off loans combined with our loss experience, we consider our loan loss allowance sufficient to meet the losses inherent in our portfolio.
Loans charged off during first quarter of 2016 totaled $23,027 compared to $598,454 for the same period in 2015 . Recoveries totaled $36,860 in the first quarter of 2016 compared to $43,170 for the same period in 2015 . The ratio of net charge-offs to average outstanding loans for the first quarter of 2016 was (0.01%) compared to 0.07% in 2015 . A total of $28,454 in specific reserves for loans charged off in the first three months of 2016 were included in our December 31, 2015 loan loss allowance. Specific reserves totaling $582,500 were included in our December 31, 2015 loan loss allowance for loans charged off in the first three months of 2015 .
In the first three months of 2016, approximately $17 thousand in loans charged off were related to residential properties and $6 thousand were related to consumer loans. In the first quarter of 2015, approximately $565 thousand in loans charged off were related to business failure and $34 thousand were related to residential properties.
The allowance for loan losses totaled $8,901,032 at March 31, 2016 , a increase of $13,833 from December 31, 2015 . The ratio of the allowance to loans held for investment, less unearned income, was 1.05% at March 31, 2016 , and 1.07% at December 31, 2015 . We believe the allowance for loan losses is adequate to absorb any inherent losses on existing loans in our loan portfolio at March 31, 2016 . The allowance to loans ratio is supported by the level of non-performing loans, the seasoning of the loan portfolio, and the experience of the lending staff in the market.


46


  LOAN LOSS ALLOWANCE AND LOSS EXPERIENCE
 
For the Quarter Ended March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
Balance, beginning of period
$
8,887,199

 
$
8,948,837

Loans charged-off
 
 
 
Commercial

 
(34,000
)
Real estate
 
 
 
Construction

 
(17,500
)
Residential (1-4 family)
(16,919
)
 
(546,954
)
Home equity lines

 

Multifamily

 

Commercial

 

Consumers
 
 
 
Consumer and installment loans
(3,581
)
 

Overdraft protection loans
(2,527
)
 

Loans charged-off total
(23,027
)
 
(598,454
)
Recoveries
 
 
 
Commercial
2,800

 
2,300

Real estate
 
 
 
Construction
4,023

 
13,661

Residential (1-4 family)
3,820

 
3,779

Home equity lines
26,217

 
23,430

Multifamily

 

Commercial

 

Consumers
 
 
 
Consumer and installment loans

 

Overdraft protection loans

 

Loan recoveries total
36,860

 
43,170

Net Charge Offs
13,833

 
(555,284
)
Provisions charged to operations

 
250,000

Balance, end of period
$
8,901,032

 
$
8,643,553


A summary of our allowance as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 by segment is as follows:

ALLOCATION OF THE ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES
 
 
March 31, 2016
 
Amount
 
Percentage of  loans
in each category
to total loans
Commercial
$
920,904

 
18.5
%
Real estate
 
 
 
Construction
1,854,410

 
24.6
%
Residential (1-4 family)
1,853,610

 
13.7
%
Home equity lines
1,527,649

 
6.8
%
Multifamily
42,765

 
1.1
%
Commercial
2,185,523

 
34.6
%
Consumers
 
 
 
Consumer and installment loans
93,580

 
0.7
%
Overdraft protection loans
206

 
%
Unallocated
422,385

 


 
$
8,901,032

 
100.0
%
Total loans held for investment outstanding *
$
850,054,301

 
 
Ratio of allowance for loan losses to total loans held for investment
1.05
%
 
 
 

47


  
December 31, 2015
  
Amount
 
Percentage of loans
in each category
to total loans
Commercial
$
855,813

 
19.1
%
Real estate

 

Construction
1,797,301

 
22.9
%
Residential (1-4 family)
1,876,528

 
13.7
%
Home equity lines
1,654,545

 
7.1
%
Multifamily
52,158

 
1.5
%
Commercial
2,177,890

 
35.0
%
Consumers

 

Consumer and installment loans
96,025

 
0.8
%
Overdraft protection loans
3,037

 
%
Unallocated
373,902

 


 
$
8,887,199

 
100.0
%
Total loans held for investment outstanding *
$
829,269,305

 
 
Ratio of allowance for loan losses to total loans held for investment
1.07
%
 
 
 
*
Total loans held for investment outstanding includes unamortized loan costs, net of deferred fees of ($219,747) at March 31, 2016 and ($201,724) at December 31, 2015.

Asset Quality and Non-Performing Loans
We identify specific credit exposures through periodic analysis of our loan portfolio and monitor general exposures from economic trends, market values and other external factors. We maintain an allowance for loan losses, which is available to absorb losses inherent in the loan portfolio. The allowance is increased by the provision for losses and by recoveries from losses. Charged-off loan balances are subtracted from the allowance. The adequacy of the allowance for loan losses is determined on a monthly basis. Various factors as defined in the previous section “Allowance and Provision for Loan Losses” are considered in determining the adequacy of the allowance. Loans are generally placed on non-accrual status after they are past due for 90 days.
Non-performing loans include loans on which interest is no longer accrued, accruing loans that are contractually past due 90 days or more as to principal and interest payments, and loans classified as troubled debt restructurings. Based on this definition total non-performing loans as a percentage of total loans were 0.48% and 0.53% at March 31,2016 and December 31, 2015. Five of our nine troubled debt restructure loans were performing at March 31, 2016. Six of our ten troubled debt restructure loans were performing at December 31, 2015. Excluding performing troubled debt restructure this percentage declines to 0.23% and 0.27% at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. Non-performing assets at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 are presented below.

 

48


NON-PERFORMING ASSETS
 
Non-Performing Loans
 
 
 
 
  
Over 90  Days
and Accruing
 
Nonaccrual
Loans
 
Non-accruing Restructured Loans
 
Accruing Restructured
Loans
 
Total Non-Performing
Loans
 
Other
Real Estate
Owned and Other Non-Performing Assets
 
Total
Non-Performing
Assets
  
 
March 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Commercial
$

 
$

 
$

 
$

 
$

 
$

 
$

Real estate
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Construction

 

 

 

 

 

 

Residential (1-4 family)
104,285

 
306,331

 
685,009

 
778,471

 
1,874,096

 

 
1,874,096

Home equity lines

 
481,562

 

 

 
481,562

 

 
481,562

Multifamily

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commercial

 
152,549

 
218,208

 
1,329,584

 
1,700,341

 

 
1,700,341

Consumers
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consumer and installment loans

 

 

 
62,602

 
62,602

 

 
62,602

Overdraft protection loans

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other non-performing assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total
$
104,285

 
$
940,442

 
$
903,217

 
$
2,170,657

 
$
4,118,601

 
$

 
$
4,118,601

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2015
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Commercial
$

 
$
21,448

 
$

 
$

 
$
21,448

 
$

 
$
21,448

Real estate

 

 
 
 

 
 
 

 
 
Construction

 
101,677

 

 

 
101,677

 

 
101,677

Residential (1-4 family)
248,326

 
312,764

 
695,886

 
785,257

 
2,042,233

 

 
2,042,233

Home equity lines

 
483,859

 

 

 
483,859

 

 
483,859

Multifamily

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commercial

 
153,349

 
220,776

 
1,329,584

 
1,703,709

 

 
1,703,709

Consumers

 

 
 
 

 
 
 

 
 
Consumer and installment loans

 

 

 
65,043

 
65,043

 

 
65,043

Overdraft protection loans

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total
$
248,326

 
$
1,073,097

 
$
916,662

 
$
2,179,884

 
$
4,417,969

 
$

 
$
4,417,969

 
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2014
Asset Quality Ratios:
 
 
 
Nonperforming loans to period end loans, excluding performing restructured loans
0.23
%
 
0.27
%
Nonperforming assets to total assets, excluding performing restructured loans
0.16
%
 
0.19
%
Nonperforming assets to period end assets
0.34
%
 
0.38
%
Allowance for loan losses to non-accruing nonperforming loans
456.94
%
 
397.09
%
Nonperforming loans to period end loans
0.48
%
 
0.53
%
Restructured loans are loans for which it has been determined the borrower is in financial distress and a concession has been made to those terms that would not otherwise have been considered. Restructured loans are evaluated in accordance with applicable accounting guidance as impaired loans. In addition, if it is determined the borrower is unable to perform under the modified terms, further steps, such as a full charge-off or foreclosure may be taken. We did not have any commitments to lend additional funds on restructured loans at March 31, 2016 or December 31, 2015.



49


TROUBLED DEBT RESTRUCTURING  
 
Residential
1-4 Family
 
Real Estate Construction
 
Consumer
 
Total
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
March 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance beginning of the period
$
1,481,143

 
$
1,550,360

 
$
65,043

 
$
3,096,546

Investment in restructured loans

 
 
 
 
 

Additions (payments received) during the period
(17,663
)
 
(2,568
)
 
(2,441
)
 
(22,672
)
Charge-off during the period

 

 

 

Moved to other real estate

 

 

 

Valuation allowance for restructured loans included in charged-off loans

 

 

 

Additions during the period

 

 

 

Restructured loans included in impaired loans end of the period
$
1,463,480

 
$
1,547,792

 
$
62,602

 
$
3,073,874

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2014
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance beginning of the period
$
1,520,390

 
$
1,332,589

 
$
74,582

 
$
2,927,561

Investment in restructured loans
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Additions (payments received) during the period
444,622

 
217,771

 
(9,539
)
 
652,854

Charge-off during the period
(483,869
)
 

 

 
(483,869
)
Moved to other real estate

 

 

 

Valuation allowance for restructured loans included in charged-off loans

 

 

 

Additions during the period

 

 

 

Restructured loans included in impaired loans end of the period
$
1,481,143

 
$
1,550,360

 
$
65,043

 
$
3,096,546

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Recoveries of charged-off balance
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
March 31, 2016
$

 
$

 
$

 
$

December 31, 2015
$

 
$

 
$

 
$

A loan is considered impaired when, based on current information and events; it is probable that a creditor will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. All amounts due according to the contractual terms means that both the contractual interest payments and the contractual principal payments of a loan will be collected as scheduled in the loan agreement. In addition to loans 90 days past due and still accruing, nonaccrual loans and restructured loans, all loans risk graded doubtful or substandard qualify, by definition, as impaired.
Other Real Estate
Other real estate is real estate properties acquired through or in lieu of loan foreclosure. At foreclosure, these properties are recorded at their fair value less estimated selling costs as a nonperforming asset, with any write-downs to the carrying value of our investment charged to the allowance for loan loss. After foreclosure, periodic evaluations are performed to determine if any decrease in the fair value less estimated selling costs has occurred. Further adjustments to this fair value are charged to operations, in non-interest expense, when identified. Expenses associated with the maintenance of other real estate are charged to operations, foreclosed property expense, as incurred. When a property is sold, any gain or loss on the sale is recorded as gain or loss on foreclosed property in non-interest expense. The Company had no other real estate owned during the period ended March 31, 2016.

50


OTHER REAL ESTATE
  
December 31, 2015
  
Balance
 
Number
January 1,
$
144,000

 
1

Balance moved into other real estate
250,000

 
2

 
394,000

 
3

Write down of property charged to operations

 
 
Payments received after foreclosure

 
 
Properties sold
(394,000
)
 
(3
)
Balance at December 31, 2015
$

 

Gross gains of sale of other real estate
$

 
 
Gross losses on sale of other real estate
(51,035
)
 
 
Write down of property charged to operations

 
 
Rental income, other real estate
1,955

 
 
Other real estate expense
(44,869
)
 
 
Foreclosed property (expense) income
$
(93,949
)
 
 

Liquidity
Liquidity represents an institution’s ability to meet present and future financial obligations through either the sale of existing assets or the acquisition of additional funds through short-term borrowings. Our liquidity is provided from cash and amounts due from banks, federal funds sold, interest-bearing deposits in other banks, repayments from loans, increases in deposits, lines of credit from the Federal Home Loan Bank and six correspondent banks, and maturing investments. As a result of our management of liquid assets, and our ability to generate liquidity through liability funding, we believe that we maintain overall liquidity sufficient to satisfy our depositors’ requirements and to meet clients’ credit needs. We also take into account any liquidity needs generated by off-balance sheet transactions such as commitments to extend credit, commitments to purchase securities and standby letters of credit.
We monitor and plan our liquidity position for future periods. Liquidity strategies are implemented and monitored by our Asset/Liability Committee (ALCO).
Cash, cash equivalents and federal funds sold totaled $86.8 million as of March 31, 2016 compared to $73.9 million as of December 31, 2015. At March 31, 2016 , cash, interest bearing bank balances, securities classified as available for sale and federal funds sold were $113.7 million or 9.3% of total assets, compared to $104.1 million or 9.0% of total assets at December 31, 2015.
In the course of operations, due to fluctuations in loan and deposit levels, we occasionally find it necessary to purchase federal funds on a short-term basis. We maintain unsecured federal funds line arrangements with four other banks, which allow us to purchase funds totaling $58.0 million. These lines mature and re-price daily. At March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, we had $0 in federal funds purchased outstanding.
We have access to the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond’s discount window should a liquidity crisis occur. We have not used this facility in the past and consider it a backup source of funds.
We are also members of the Promontory Network and have access to a program through their Certificate of Deposit Account Registry Service ® (CDARS) to use their CDARS One Way Buy SM to purchase cost-effective funding without collateralization (and in lieu of generating funds through “traditional” brokered CDs or the Federal Home Loan Bank). These funds are accessed through a weekly auction. The auction typically takes place on Wednesdays, with next day settlement. There are seven maturities available ranging from 4 weeks to 5 years. If we are allotted funds in the auction, we incur no transaction fees or commissions. Although the process to compete for these deposits is different from the process for traditional brokered CDs, they are still considered brokered for Call Report purposes. These funds, which are included in our Jumbo CDs, are subject to discretionary limitations on volume that we normally would impose on traditional brokered deposits. Based on our “well capitalized” status, we are able to draw up to 30% of assets or $363.8 million from this program at March 31, 2016 . We had $165.0 million on our balance sheet from this program at March 31, 2016 and $115.9 million at December 31, 2015.
We have a line of credit with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta (“FHLB”) that can equal up to 30% of our assets. Our line of credit totaled approximately $196.4 million with $188.4 million available at March 31, 2016 . This line is currently reduced by $8.0 million, which has been pledged as collateral for public deposits.

51


There were no borrowings outstanding under the FHLB line of credit at March 31, 2016 and $16.0 million at December 31, 2015. We have no material commitments or long-term debt for capital expenditures at the report date.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We enter into certain financial transactions in the ordinary course of performing traditional banking services that result in off-balance sheet transactions. The off-balance sheet transactions recognized as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 were a line of credit to secure public funds and commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit issued to customers. The line of credit to secure public funds was from the Federal Home Loan Bank for $8 million at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015.
 
 
Commitments
 
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
Commitments to grant loans
 
$
156,036,184

 
$
157,554,990

Interest rate lock commitments
 
$
187,028,611

 
$
108,635,768

Unfunded commitments under lines of credit and similar arrangements
 
$
152,546,255

 
$
149,977,483

Standby letters of credit and guarantees written
 
$
32,835,431

 
$
33,062,276

The table above summarizes our off-balance sheet commitments at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015. Commitments to extend credit and unfunded commitments under existing lines of credit represent legally binding agreements to lend to customers with fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses. Since many of the commitments are expected to expire without being funded, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future liquidity requirements. Standby letters of credit are conditional commitments we issue guaranteeing the performance of a customer to a third party. Those guarantees are primarily issued to support public and private borrowing arrangements.
We did not have any outstanding commitments to purchase securities at March 31, 2016 or December 31, 2015.
We have thirty-two non-cancellable leases for premises. The original lease terms are from one to thirty years and have various renewal and option dates.
Capital Resources
We review the adequacy of our capital on an ongoing basis with reference to the size, composition, and quality of our resources and are consistent with regulatory requirements and industry standards. We seek to maintain a capital structure that will assure an adequate level of capital to support anticipated asset growth and absorb potential losses.
The Company and the Bank are subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by the federal banking agencies. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory and possibly additional discretionary actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on our financial statements. Under capital adequacy guidelines and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, banks must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of the bank’s assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance-sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. Capital amounts and classification are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components (such as interest rate risk), risk weighting, and other factors.
The Bank, as a Virginia banking corporation, may pay dividends only out of retained earnings. In addition, regulatory authorities may limit payment of dividends by any bank, when it is determined that such limitation is in the public interest and necessary to ensure financial soundness of the Bank. Regulatory agencies place certain restrictions on dividends paid and loans or advances made by the Bank to the Company. The amount of dividends the Bank may pay to the Company, without prior approval, is limited to current year earnings plus retained net profits for the two preceding years. At March 31, 2016 , the amount available was approximately $8.2 million. We paid our first common stock cash dividend in 2010. We paid semi-annual cash dividends on our common stock in 2011. We began paying common stock cash dividends on a quarterly basis in the first quarter of 2012.
In June 2012, we received approval from the Securities and Exchange Commission to begin a Dividend Reinvestment Program (DRP). The DRP, which is available to existing shareholders, allows for dividends to be reinvested in Monarch stock. In addition, shareholders may purchase additional shares on a quarterly basis.

On April 21, 2016 we announced the Board of Monarch Financial Holdings, Inc., had approved a quarterly common stock cash dividend. The quarterly cash dividend is $0.09 per share for common shareholders of record on May 10, 2016, payable on May 27, 2016.



52


Basel III
The Dodd-Frank Act contains a number of provisions dealing with capital adequacy of insured depository institutions and their holding companies, which has resulted in more stringent capital requirements. Under the Collins Amendment to the Dodd-Frank Act, federal regulators established minimum leverage and risk-based capital requirements for banks and bank holding companies on a consolidated basis. In July 2013, the Federal Reserve published the Basel III Capital Rules establishing a new comprehensive capital framework for U.S. banking organizations. The rules implement the Basel Committee’s December 2010 framework known as “Basel III” for strengthening international capital standards as well as certain provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act.
The Basel III Capital Rules substantially revise the risk-based capital requirements applicable to bank holding companies and depository institutions, including the Company and the Bank, compared to the current U.S. risk-based capital rules. The Basel III Capital Rules define the components of capital and address other issues affecting the numerator in banking institutions’ regulatory capital ratios. The Basel III Capital Rules also address risk weights and other issues affecting the denominator in banking institutions’ regulatory capital ratios and replace the existing risk-weighting approach, which was derived from the Basel I capital accords of the Basel Committee, with a more risk-sensitive approach based, in part, on the standardized approach in the Basel Committee’s 2004 “Basel II” capital accords. The Basel III Capital Rules also implement the requirements of Section 939A of the Dodd-Frank Act to remove references to credit ratings from the federal banking agencies’ rules. The Basel III Capital Rules were effective for the Company and the Bank, subject to a phase-in period, on January 1, 2015.
The Basel III Capital Rules (i) introduce a new capital measure called “Common Equity Tier 1” (CET1), (ii) specify that Tier 1 capital consists of CET1 and “Additional Tier 1 capital” instruments meeting specified requirements, (iii) define CET1 narrowly by requiring that most deductions/adjustments to regulatory capital measures be made to CET1 and not to the other components of capital and (iv) expand the scope of the deductions/adjustments as compared to existing regulations.
When fully phased in on January 1, 2019, the Basel III Capital Rules will require the Company and the Bank to maintain
(i) a minimum ratio of CET1 to risk-weighted assets of at least 4.5%, plus a 2.5% “capital conservation buffer” (which is added to the 4.5% CET1 ratio as that buffer is phased in, effectively resulting in a minimum ratio of CET1 to risk-weighted assets of at least 7% upon full implementation), (ii) a minimum ratio of Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets of at least 6.0%, plus the capital conservation buffer (which is added to the 6.0% Tier 1 capital ratio as that buffer is phased in, effectively resulting in a minimum Tier 1 capital ratio of 8.5% upon full implementation), (iii) a minimum ratio of total capital (that is, Tier 1 plus Tier 2) to risk-weighted assets of at least 8.0%, plus the capital conservation buffer (which is added to the 8.0% total capital ratio as that buffer is phased in, effectively resulting in a minimum total capital ratio of 10.5% upon full implementation), and (iv) a minimum leverage ratio of 4%, calculated as the ratio of Tier 1 capital to average assets (as compared to a current minimum leverage ratio of 3% for banking organizations that either have the highest supervisory rating or have implemented the appropriate federal regulatory authority’s risk-adjusted measure for market risk).
Under the Basel III Capital Rules, the initial minimum capital ratios as of January 1, 2016 are:
• 4.5% CET1 plus the capital conservation buffer of 0.625% or 5.125% to risk-weighted assets.
• 6.0% Tier 1 capital plus the capital conservation buffer of 0.625% or 6.625% to risk-weighted assets.
• 8.0% Total capital plus the capital conservation buffer of 0.625% or 8.625% to risk-weighted assets.
The implementation of the capital conservation buffer began on January 1, 2016 at the 0.625% level and will be phased in over a four-year period (increasing by that amount on each subsequent January 1, until it reaches 2.5% on January 1, 2019).
As of March 31, 2016 , the Bank was categorized as “well capitalized,” the highest level of capital adequacy. To be categorized as well capitalized, the Bank must maintain minimum total risk-based, Tier 1 risk-based, Common Equity risk-based, and Tier 1 leverage ratios as set forth in the table. The Bank’s actual capital amounts and ratios are also presented in the table as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015.

53


RISK BASED CAPITAL
 
Actual
 
For Capital  Adequacy
Purposes
 
To Be Well Capitalized
Under Prompt Corrective
 
Amounts
 
Ratio
 
Amounts
 
Ratio
 
Amounts
 
Ratio
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
As of March 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total Risk-Based Capital Ratio
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated company
$
139,158

 
13.85
%
 
$
86,652

 
8.625
%
 
N/A

 
N/A

Bank
$
138,157

 
13.76
%
 
$
86,625

 
8.625
%
 
$
106,712

 
10.625
%
(Total Risk-Based Capital to Risk-Weighted Assets)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tier 1 Risk-Based Capital Ratio
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated company
$
130,257

 
13.19
%
 
$
66,558

 
6.625
%
 
N/A

 
N/A

Bank
$
129,256

 
12.87
%
 
$
66,537

 
6.625
%
 
$
86,625

 
8.625
%
(Tier 1 Capital to Risk-Weighted Assets)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common Equity Risk-Based Capital (CET1)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated company
$
120,257

 
11.97
%
 
$
51,489

 
5.125
%
 
N/A

 
N/A

Bank
$
119,256

 
11.87
%
 
$
51,473

 
5.125
%
 
$
71,560

 
7.125
%
(Total Common Equity to Risk-Weighted Assets)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tier 1 Leverage Ratio
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated company
$
130,257

 
11.33
%
 
$
53,162

 
4.625
%
 
N/A

 
N/A

Bank
$
129,256

 
11.25
%
 
$
53,148

 
4.625
%
 
$
64,638

 
5.625
%
(Tier 1 Capital to Average Assets)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
As of December 31, 2015
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total Risk-Based Capital Ratio
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated company
$
135,955

 
13.69
%
 
$
79,411

 
8.00
%
 
N/A

 
N/A

Bank
$
134,953

 
13.60
%
 
$
79,386

 
8.00
%
 
$
99,230

 
10.00
%
(Total Risk-Based Capital to Risk-Weighted Assets)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tier 1 Risk-Based Capital Ratio
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated company
$
127,068

 
12.80
%
 
$
59,558

 
6.00
%
 
N/A

 
N/A

Bank
$
126,066

 
12.70
%
 
$
59,539

 
6.00
%
 
$
79,411

 
8.00
%
(Tier 1 Capital to Risk-Weighted Assets)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common Equity Risk-Based Capital (CET1)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated company
$
117,068

 
11.79
%
 
$
44,669

 
4.50
%
 
N/A

 
N/A

Bank
$
126,066

 
12.70
%
 
$
44,655

 
4.50
%
 
$
64,501

 
6.50
%
(Total Common Equity to Risk-Weighted Assets)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tier 1 Leverage Ratio
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated company
$
127,068

 
11.56
%
 
$
43,968

 
4.00
%
 
N/A

 
N/A

Bank
$
126,066

 
11.48
%
 
$
43,925

 
4.00
%
 
$
54,907

 
5.00
%
(Tier 1 Capital to Average Assets)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 



ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Market risk is the risk of loss in a financial instrument arising from adverse changes in market rates or prices such as interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, commodity prices and equity prices. Our primary market risk exposure is interest rate risk. The ongoing monitoring and management of this risk is an important component of our asset/liability management process, which is governed by policies established by our board of directors that are reviewed and approved annually. Our board of directors delegates responsibility for carrying out asset/liability management policies to the Asset/Liability Management Committee (“ALCO”). In this capacity, the committee develops guidelines and strategies that govern our asset/liability management related activities, based upon estimated market risk sensitivity, policy limits and overall market interest rate levels and trends.
Interest rate risk represents the sensitivity of earnings to changes in market interest rates. As interest rates change, the interest income and expense streams associated with our financial instruments also change, affecting net interest income, the primary component of our earnings. ALCO uses the results of a detailed and dynamic simulation model to quantify the estimated exposure of net interest income to sustained interest rate changes. While this committee routinely monitors simulated net interest income sensitivity over a rolling 12 month horizon, it also employs additional tools to monitor potential longer-term interest rate risk.
The interest sensitivity position (“gap”) is the difference between interest sensitive assets and interest sensitive liabilities in a specific time interval. The gap can be managed by repricing assets or liabilities, affected by selling securities available-for-sale, by replacing an asset or liability at maturity, or by adjusting the interest rate or the life of an asset or liability. Matching of assets

54


and liabilities repricing in the same interval helps to hedge the risk and minimize the impact on interest income in periods of rising and falling interest rates.
Generally, positive gaps affect net interest margins and earnings negatively in periods of falling rates, and conversely, higher negative gaps adversely impact net interest margin and earnings in periods of rising rates as a higher volume of liabilities will reprice quicker than assets over the period for which the gap is computed.
The impact of changing interest rates on loans and deposits is reflected in our financial statements. We believe that our mortgage banking operation, Monarch Mortgage, provides somewhat of a natural interest rate hedge, in that we are interest rate sensitive to a downward change in the prime rate for short term periods. When loan interest rates decline, our earnings will be negatively impacted in our banking operation, but the mortgage company’s volume should increase as the demand for refinancing and purchase money mortgages increase. The reverse should occur in a rising interest rate environment. There have been no material changes in interest rates in the first quarter of March 31, 2016 compared to December 31, 2015 .

55


ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
We maintain a system of internal controls and procedures designed to provide reasonable assurance as to the reliability of our published financial statements and other disclosures included in this report. As of the end of the period covered by this report, we carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-14. Based upon that evaluation, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective in timely alerting them to material information relating to us (including our consolidated subsidiaries) required to be included in periodic SEC filings. There have been no changes in the Company's internal control over financial reporting during the Company's first quarter ended March 31, 2016 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company's internal control over financial reporting.

56


PART II—OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings
In the ordinary course of our operations, we become party to various legal proceedings. Currently, we are not party to any material legal proceedings, and no such proceedings are, to management’s knowledge, threatened against us.

Item 1A. Risk Factors
Our operations are subject to many risks that could adversely affect our future financial condition and performance and, therefore, the market value of our securities, including the risk factors that are outlined in our 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed.

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
None.

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities
Not applicable.

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

Not applicable.

Item 5. Other Information
None.

57


Item 6. Exhibits

31.1 –
Certification of CEO pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a).
31.2 –
Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a).
32.1 –
Certification of CEO and Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
101.0 –
Financial statements and schedules in interactive data format.

SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
MONARCH FINANCIAL HOLDINGS, INC.
 
 
 
/s/  Brad E. Schwartz
Date: May 10, 2016
 
Brad E. Schwartz
Chief Executive Officer
 
 
/s/  Lynette P. Harris
Date: May 10, 2016
 
Lynette P. Harris
Executive Vice President & Chief
Financial Officer
 
 


58


Exhibit 31.1
SECTION 302 CERTIFICATION
I, Brad E. Schwartz, certify that:
    
1.
I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Monarch Financial Holdings, Inc.;

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

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

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

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

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

(c) evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
    
(d) disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and

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

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

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

Date: May 10, 2016                      /s/ Brad E. Schwartz _______________
Brad E. Schwartz
Chief Executive Officer




59


Exhibit 31.2
SECTION 302 CERTIFICATION
I, Lynette P. Harris, certify that:

1.
I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Monarch Financial Holdings, Inc.;

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

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

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

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

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

(c) evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
    
(d) disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and

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

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

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

Date: May 10, 2016                      /s/ Lynette P. Harris. ___________________
Lynette P. Harris
Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer


60


Exhibit 32.1

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

In connection with the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Monarch Financial Holdings, Inc. (the "Company") for the period ending March 31, 2016 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the "Report"), the undersigned Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that based on their knowledge and belief:
(1) the Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
(2) the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

/s/ Brad E. Schwartz ______________
Brad E. Schwartz,
Chief Executive Officer

/s/ Lynette P. Harris. ___________________
Lynette P. Harris
Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer


Date: May 10, 2016     


61
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