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

FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)

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

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2009

OR

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

Commission File Number 0-18832

First Financial Service Corporation
(Exact Name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

Kentucky
 
61-1168311
(State or other jurisdiction
 
(IRS Employer Identification No.)
of incorporation or organization)
   

2323 Ring Road
 
(270) 765-2131
Elizabethown, Kentucky 42701
 
(Registrant's telephone number,
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
including area code)
(Zip Code)
   

(270) 765-2131
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

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

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes  ¨   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 “accelerated filer”, “large accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large Accelerated Filer ¨
Accelerated Filer x
Non-Accelerated Filer ¨
Smaller Reporting Company ¨
   
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
 

Indicate by a check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes ¨   No x

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

Class
 
Outstanding as of October 31, 2009
     
Common Stock
 
4,707,898   shares
 
 
 

 

FIRST FINANCIAL SERVICE CORPORATION
FORM 10-Q
TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
     
Preliminary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
 
     
Item 1.
Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
4
     
Item 2.
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
27
     
Item 3.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
43
     
Item 4.
Controls and Procedures
45
     
PART II – OTHER INFORMATION
 
     
Item 1.
Legal Proceedings
45
     
Item 1A.
Risk Factors
45
     
Item 2.
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
45
     
Item 3.
Defaults upon Senior Securities
45
     
Item 4.
Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
45
     
Item 5.
Other Information
45
     
Item 6.
Exhibits
45
     
SIGNATURES
46
 
 
2

 

PRELIMINARY NOTE REGARDING
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Statements in this report that are not statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. First Financial Service Corporation (the “Corporation”) may make forward-looking statements in future filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), in press releases, and in oral and written statements made by or with the approval of the Corporation.  Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: (1) projections of revenues, income or loss, earnings or loss per share, capital structure and other financial items; (2) plans and objectives of the Corporation or its management or Board of Directors; (3) statements regarding future events, actions or economic performance; and (4) statements of assumptions underlying such statements.  Words such as “estimate,” “strategy,” “believes,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “targeted,” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, but are not the exclusive means of identifying such statements.

Various risks and uncertainties may cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by our forward-looking statements.  In addition to those risks described under “Item 1A Risk Factors,” of this report and our Annual Report on Form 10-K, the following factors could cause such differences: changes in general economic conditions and economic conditions in Kentucky and the markets we serve, any of which may affect, among other things, our level of non-performing assets, charge-offs, and provision for loan loss expense; changes in interest rates that may reduce interest margins and impact funding sources; changes in market rates and prices which may adversely impact the value of financial products including securities, loans and deposits; changes in tax laws, rules and regulations; various monetary and fiscal policies and regulations, including those determined by the Federal Reserve Board, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) and the Kentucky Office of Financial Institutions (“KOFI”); competition with other local and regional commercial banks, savings banks, credit unions and other non-bank financial institutions; our ability to grow core businesses; our ability to develop and introduce new banking-related products, services and enhancements and gain market acceptance of such products; and management’s ability to manage these and other risks.

Our forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date of the statement to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

 
3

 

Item 1.
FIRST FINANCIAL SERVICE CORPORATION
 
 
Consolidated Balance Sheets
 
 
(Unaudited)
 

   
September 30,
   
December 31,
 
(Dollars in thousands, except share data)
 
2009
   
2008
 
             
ASSETS:
           
Cash and due from banks
  $ 17,535     $ 17,310  
Interest bearing deposits
    2,566       3,595  
Total cash and cash equivalents
    20,101       20,905  
                 
Securities available-for-sale
    35,144       15,775  
Securities held-to-maturity, fair value of $1,359 Sept (2009) and $6,846 Dec (2008)
     1,346        7,022  
Total securities
    36,490       22,797  
Loans held for sale
    7,729       9,567  
Loans, net of unearned fees
    980,121       903,434  
Allowance for loan losses
    (16,173 )     (13,565 )
Net loans
    971,677       899,436  
                 
Federal Home Loan Bank stock
    8,515       8,515  
Cash surrender value of life insurance
    8,923       8,654  
Premises and equipment, net
    32,345       30,068  
Real estate owned:
               
Acquired through foreclosure
    8,184       5,925  
Held for development
    45       45  
Other repossessed assets
    40       91  
Goodwill
    11,931       11,931  
Core deposit intangible
    1,401       1,703  
Accrued interest receivable
    5,064       4,379  
Deferred income taxes
    468       1,147  
Other assets
    2,382       1,451  
                 
TOTAL ASSETS
  $ 1,107,566     $ 1,017,047  
                 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
               
LIABILITIES:
               
Deposits:
               
Non-interest bearing
  $ 59,499     $ 55,668  
Interest bearing
    878,219       719,731  
Total deposits
    937,718       775,399  
                 
Short-term borrowings
    2,200       94,869  
Advances from Federal Home Loan Bank
    52,777       52,947  
Subordinated debentures
    18,000       18,000  
Accrued interest payable
    340       288  
Accounts payable and other liabilities
    2,366       2,592  
                 
TOTAL LIABILITIES
    1,013,401       944,095  
Commitments and contingent liabilities
    -       -  
                 
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:
               
Serial preferred stock, $1 par value per share; authorized 5,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding, 20,000 shares with a liquidation preference of $1,000/share Sept (2009)
         19,768          -  
Common stock, $1 par value per share; authorized 10,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding, 4,707,898 shares Sept (2009), and 4,668,030 shares Dec (2008)
       4,708          4,668  
Additional paid-in capital
    34,965       34,145  
Retained earnings
    35,744       36,476  
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
    (1,020 )     (2,337 )
                 
TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
    94,165       72,952  
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
  $ 1,107,566     $ 1,017,047  

See notes to the unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 
4

 

FIRST FINANCIAL SERVICE CORPORATION
Consolidated Statements of Income
(Unaudited)

   
Three Months Ended
   
Nine Months Ended
 
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
 
September 30,
   
September 30,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
Interest and Dividend Income:
                       
Loans, including fees
  $ 14,410     $ 14,337     $ 42,509     $ 41,718  
Taxable securities
    312       403       925       1,095  
Tax exempt securities
    137       90       361       297  
Total interest income
    14,859       14,830       43,795       43,110  
                                 
Interest Expense:
                               
Deposits
    4,513       5,325       13,359       15,815  
Short-term borrowings
    27       156       117       661  
Federal Home Loan Bank advances
    601       610       1,798       1,808  
Subordinated debentures
    331       315       989       649  
Total interest expense
    5,472       6,406       16,263       18,933  
                                 
Net interest income
    9,387       8,424       27,532       24,177  
Provision for loan losses
    2,482       1,720       6,441       2,819  
Net interest income after provision for loan losses
    6,905       6,704       21,091       21,358  
                                 
Non-interest Income:
                               
Customer service fees on deposit accounts
    1,750       1,817       4,872       4,865  
Gain on sale of mortgage loans
    300       179       832       566  
Gain on sale of investments
    -       52       -       52  
Total other-than-temporary impairment losses
    (1,352 )     -       (2,915 )     (216 )
Portion of loss recognized in other comprehensive income (before taxes)
    1,048        -       2,212        -  
Net impairment losses recognized in earnings
    (304 )     -       (703 )     (216 )
Write down on real estate acquired through foreclosure
    (305 )     (151 )     (555 )     (160 )
Brokerage commissions
    89       109       281       352  
Other income
    365       361       1,263       1,001  
Total non-interest income
    1,895       2,367       5,990       6,460  
                                 
Non-interest Expense:
                               
Employee compensation and benefits
    4,042       3,867       12,193       10,765  
Office occupancy expense and equipment
    832       779       2,488       2,112  
Marketing and advertising
    225       215       735       638  
Outside services and data processing
    793       882       2,381       2,365  
Bank franchise tax
    257       258       778       761  
FDIC insurance premiums
    414       102       1,381       286  
Amortization of core deposit intangible
    100       56       302       59  
Other expense
    1,365       1,478       3,998       3,505  
Total non-interest expense
    8,028       7,637       24,256       20,491  
                                 
Income before income taxes
    772       1,434       2,825       7,327  
Income taxes
    196       443       773       2,354  
Net Income
    576       991       2,052       4,973  
Less:
                               
Dividends on preferred stock
    (250 )     -       (730 )     -  
Accretion on preferred stock
    (14 )     -       (39 )     -  
Net income available to common shareholders
  $ 312     $ 991     $ 1,283     $ 4,973  
                                 
Shares applicable to basic income per common share
    4,704,289       4,667,081       4,689,917       4,665,058  
Basic income per common share
  $ 0.07     $ 0.21     $ 0.27     $ 1.07  
                                 
Shares applicable to diluted income per common share
    4,734,037       4,683,978       4,703,432       4,689,458  
Diluted income per common share
  $ 0.07     $ 0.21     $ 0.27     $ 1.06  
                                 
Cash dividends declared per common share
  $ 0.050     $ 0.190     $ 0.430     $ 0.570  

See notes to the unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 
5

 

FIRST FINANCIAL SERVICE CORPORATION
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income/(Loss)
(Unaudited)

   
Three Months Ended
   
Nine Months Ended
 
   
September 30,
   
September 30,
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
                         
Net Income
  $ 576     $ 991     $ 2,052     $ 4,973  
Other comprehensive income (loss):
                               
Change in unrealized gain (loss) on securities available-for-sale
    915       (2,131 )     1,526       (2,518 )
Reclassification of realized amount on securities available-for-sale
    304       (52 )     679       164  
Non-credit component of other-than- temporary impairment on held-to-maturity securities
       -          -          (215 )        -  
Accretion of non-credit component of other- than-temporary impairment on held-to-maturity securities
       3          -          5          -  
Net unrealized gain (loss) recognized in comprehensive income
    1,222       (2,183 )     1,995       (2,354 )
Tax effect
    (415 )     742       (678 )     800  
Total other comphrehensive income (loss)
    807       (1,441 )     1,317       (1,554 )
                                 
Comprehensive Income/(Loss)
  $ 1,383     $ (450 )   $ 3,369     $ 3,419  

See notes to the unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 
6

 

FIRST FINANCIAL SERVICE CORPORATION
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Stockholders' Equity
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2009
(Dollars In Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts)
(Unaudited)
 
   
Shares
   
Amount
   
  Additional
   
 
   
  Accumulated Other Comprehensive
       
   
Preferred
   
Common
   
Preferred
   
Common
   
Paid-in Capital
   
Retained Earnings
   
 (Loss), Net of Tax
 
 
Total
 
                                                 
Balance, January 1, 2009
    -       4,668     $ -     $ 4,668     $ 34,145     $ 36,476     $ (2,337 )   $ 72,952  
Net income
                                            2,052               2,052  
Issuance of preferred stock and a
                                                               
  common stock warrant
    20,000               19,729               271                       20,000  
Shares issued under dividend
                                                               
  reinvestment program
            1               1       2                       3  
Stock issued for stock options exercised
            12               12       89                       101  
Stock issued for employee benefit
                                                               
  plans
            27               27       380                       407  
Stock-based compensation expense
                                    78                       78  
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)
                                                               
  on securities available-for-sale,
                                                               
  net of tax
                                                    1,317       1,317  
Dividends on preferred stock
                                            (730 )             (730 )
Accretion of preferred stock discount
                    39                       (39 )             -  
Cash dividends declared
                                                               
  ($.43 per share)
    -       -       -       -       -       (2,015 )     -       (2,015 )
Balance, September 30, 2009
    20,000       4,708     $ 19,768     $ 4,708     $ 34,965     $ 35,744     $ (1,020 )   $ 94,165  
 
See notes to the unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 
7

 

FIRST FINANCIAL SERVICE CORPORATION
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(Dollars In Thousands)
(Unaudited)

   
Nine Months Ended
 
   
September 30,
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
Operating Activities:
           
Net income
  $ 2,052     $ 4,973  
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
               
Provision for loan losses
    6,441       2,819  
Depreciation on premises and equipment
    1,264       1,178  
Federal Home Loan Bank stock dividends
    -       (309 )
Core deposit intangible amortization
    302       59  
Net amortization (accretion) available-for-sale
    131       (3 )
Net amortization (accretion) held-to-maturity
    8       18  
Impairment loss on securities available-for-sale
    679       216  
Impairment loss on securities held-to-maturity
    24       -  
Gain on sale of investments available-for-sale
    -       (52 )
Gain on sale of mortgage loans
    (832 )     (566 )
Origination of loans held for sale
    (101,364 )     (47,277 )
Proceeds on sale of loans held for sale
    104,034       46,432  
Stock-based compensation expense
    78       92  
Changes in:
               
Cash surrender value of life insurance
    (269 )     (271 )
Interest receivable
    (685 )     155  
Other assets
    (931 )     (17 )
Interest payable
    52       (763 )
Accounts payable and other liabilities
    (226 )     (589 )
Net cash from operating activities
    10,758       6,095  
                 
Investing Activities:
               
Cash paid for acquisition of Farmers State Bank, net of cash acquired
    -       (1,466 )
Sales of securities available-for-sale
    -       679  
Purchases of securities available-for-sale
    (19,565 )     (524 )
Maturities of securities available-for-sale
    1,592       2,208  
Maturities of securities held-to-maturity
    5,434       12,517  
Net change in loans
    (82,728 )     (58,518 )
Net purchases of premises and equipment
    (3,541 )     (4,070 )
Net cash from investing activities
    (98,808 )     (49,174 )
                 
Financing Activities
               
Net change in deposits
    162,319       31,927  
Change in short-term borrowings
    (92,669 )     22,500  
Repayments to Federal Home Loan Bank
    (170 )     (102 )
Proceeds from issuance of subordinated debentures
    -       8,000  
Issuance of preferred stock, net
    20,000       -  
Issuance of common stock
    3       -  
Issuance of common stock for stock options exercised
    101       -  
Issuance of common stock for employee benefit plans
    407       144  
Dividends paid on common stock
    (2,015 )     (2,659 )
Dividends paid on preferred stock
    (730 )     -  
Net cash from financing activities
    87,246       59,810  
                 
(Decrease) Increase in cash and cash equivalents
    (804 )     16,731  
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period
    20,905       14,948  
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period
  $ 20,101     $ 31,679  

See notes to the unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 
8

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
1.
BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of Presentation – The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements include the accounts of First Financial Service Corporation and its wholly owned subsidiary, First Federal Savings Bank.  First Federal Savings Bank has three wholly owned subsidiaries, First Service Corporation of Elizabethtown, Heritage Properties, LLC and First Federal Office Park, LLC.  Unless the text clearly suggests otherwise, references to "us," "we," or "our" include First Financial Service Corporation and its wholly-owned subsidiary.  All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X.  Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements.  In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included.  Operating results for the nine-month period ending September 30, 2009 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may occur for the year ending December 31, 2009.  For further information, refer to the consolidated financial statements and footnotes thereto included in the Corporation’s annual report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2008.

Adoption of New Accounting Standards In June 2009, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (“SFAS”) No. 168 – “The FASB Accounting Standards Codification and the Hierarchy of Generally Accepted AccountingPrinciples – areplacement of FASB Statement No. 162,” (“SFAS 168”).  SFAS 168 establishes the FASB Accounting Standards Codification (“Codification”) as the source of authoritative generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) for nongovernmental entities.  The Codification does not change GAAP.  Instead, it takes the thousands of individual pronouncements that currently comprise GAAP and reorganizes them into approximately 90 accounting Topics, and displays all Topics using a consistent structure.  Contents in each Topic are further organized first by Subtopic, then Section and finally Paragraph.  The Paragraph level is the only level that contains substantive content.  Citing particular content in the Codification involves specifying the unique numeric path to the content through the Topic, Subtopic, Section and Paragraph structure.  FASB suggests that all citations begin with “FASB ASC,” where ASC stands for Accounting Standards Codification .  SFAS 168, (FASB ASC 105-10-05, 10, 15, 65, 70) is effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009 and will not have an impact on our financial position but will change the referencing system for accounting standards.  The following pronouncements provide citations to the applicable Codification by Topic, Subtopic and Section.

 
9

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
1. 
BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

FASB ASC 855-10, Subsequent Events , was issued in May 2009 and establishes the period after thebalance sheet date during which management shall evaluate events or transactions that may occur for potential recognition or disclosure in the financial statements and the circumstances under which an entity shall recognize events or transactions that occur after the balance sheet date. The standard also requires disclosure of the date through which subsequent events have been evaluated. The new standard becomes effective for interim and annual periods ending after June 15, 2009. We adopted this standard for the interim reporting period ending June 30, 2009. The adoption of this statement did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial position or results of operations. We evaluated subsequent events through November 9, 2009, the date the financial statements were issued, and believe that no events have occurred requiring further disclosure or adjustment to the consolidated financial statements.

In early April 2009, the FASB issued three staff positions related to fair value which are discussed below:

 
§
FASB ASC 825-10, Interim Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments, requires disclosures about the fair value of financial instruments for interim reporting periods of publicly traded companies as well as in annual financial statements and also requires those disclosure in summarized financial information at interim reporting periods.  A publicly traded company includes any company whose securities trade in a public market on either a stock exchange or in the over-the-counter market, or any company that is a conduit bond obligor.  Additionally, when a company makes a filing with a regulatory agency in preparation for sale of its securities in a public market it is considered a publicly traded company for this purpose.  This guidance is effective for interim reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009, with early adoption permitted for periods ending after March 15, 2009.  Adoption of this standard did not have a material impact.
 
 
§
FASB ASC 820-10, Determining Fair Value When the Volume and Level of Activity for the Asset or Liability Have Significantly Decreased and Identifying Transactions That are Not Orderly , provides additional guidance for estimating fair value when the volume and level of activity for the asset or liability have significantly decreased. This topic also includes guidance on identifying circumstances that indicate a transaction is not orderly. This standard emphasizes that even if there has been a significant decrease in the volume and level of activity for the asset or liability and regardless of the valuation technique(s) used, the objective of a fair value measurement remains the same. Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction (that is, not a forced liquidation or distressed sale) between market participants at the measurement date under current market conditions. This standard requires a reporting entity: (1) disclose in interim and annual periods the inputs and valuation technique(s) used to measure fair value and a discussion of changes in valuation techniques and related inputs, if any, during the period, and (2) define major category for equity securities and debt securities to be major security types. This guidance is effective for interim reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009, with early adoption permitted for periods ending after March 15, 2009.  We early adopted this standard for our first quarter ended March 31, 2009, but its adoption did not have a material impact.

 
§
FASB ASC 320-10-65, Recognition and Presentation of Other-Than-Temporary Impairments , categorizes losses on debt securities available-for-sale or held-to-maturity determined by management to be other-than-temporarily impaired into losses due to credit issues and losses related to all other factors.  Other-than-temporary impairment (OTTI) exists when it is more likely than not that the security will mature or be sold before its amortized cost basis can be recovered.  An OTTI related to credit losses should be recognized through earnings.  An OTTI related to other factors should be recognized in other comprehensive income.  The standard does not amend existing recognition and measurement guidance related to other-than-temporary impairments of equity securities.  This guidance is effective for interim reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009, with early adoption permitted for periods ending after March 15, 2009. We early adopted this standard for our first quarter ended March 31, 2009.  Previous other-than-temporary impairment charges were recorded on equity securities so there is no cumulative effect adjustment upon adoption.

 
10

 
 
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. 
BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
FASB ASC 805-20, Accounting for Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed in a Business Combination That Arise from Contingencies, was issued in April 2009. This standard addresses concerns raised by constituents about assets and liabilities arising from contingencies in a business combination.  The standard requires an acquirer to recognize at fair value “an asset acquired or liability assumed in a business combination that arises from a contingency if the acquisition-date fair value of that asset or liability can be determined during the measurement period.” The guidance is effective for business combinations whose acquisition date is on or after the beginning of the first annual reporting period beginning on or after December 15, 2008.  This standard is expected to have an impact on our accounting for any business combinations closing on or after January 1, 2009.

FASB ASC 815-10, Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities , was issued in March 2008. This statement requires enhanced disclosures about how and why an entity   uses derivative instruments, how derivative instruments and related items are accounted for and how derivative   instruments and related hedged items affect an entity’s financial position, financial performance and cash flows. The new standard is   effective for us on January 1, 2009. Adoption of this standard did not have a material impact.

FASB ASC 350-30, 275-10, Determination of the Useful Life of Intangible Assets, was issued in April 2008 . This standard amends the factors that should be considered in developing renewal or extensionassumptions used to determine the useful life of a recognized intangible asset.  The guidance provides that in addition to considering the entity specific factors in paragraph 11 of Statement No. 142, an entity must consider its own historical experience in renewing or extending similar arrangements.  Alternatively, if an entity lacks historical experience, it must consider the assumptions a market participant would use consistent with the highest and best use of the asset, adjusted for the entity specific factors in paragraph 11 of Statement No. 142. The standard is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, and interim periods within those fiscal years.  Early adoption is prohibited.  Adoption of this standard did not have a material impact.

FASB ASC 260-10, Determining Whether Instruments Granted in Share-Based Payment Transactions are Participating Securities , was issued in June 2008.  This guidance concluded that all outstanding unvested share-based payment awards that contain rights to nonforfeitable dividends participate in undistributed earnings with common shareholders and therefore are considered participating securities for purposes of computing earnings per share. Entities that have participating securities that are not convertible into common stock are required to use the “two-class” method of computing earnings per share. The two- class method is an earnings allocation formula that dividends declared (or accumulated) and participation rights in undistributed earnings. This standard is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008 and interim periods within those fiscal years. This standard became effective for us on January 1, 2009. Adoption of this standard did not have a material impact.

FASB ASC 805, Business Combinations , was issued in December 2007.   This statement establishes principles and requirements for how the acquirer of a business recognizes and measures in its financial statements the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any non-controlling interest in the acquiree. It also provides guidance for recognizing and measuring the goodwill acquired in the business combination and determines what information to disclose to enable users of the financial statements to evaluate the nature and financial effects of the business combination. This standard is effective for business combinations where the acquisition date is on or after fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. This standard is expected to have an impact on our accounting for any business combinations closing on or after January 1, 2009.

 
11

 


NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. 
BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
FASB ASC 810-10-65-1, Non-controlling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements, was issued in December 2007. This statement establishes accounting and reporting standards for the non-controlling interest in a subsidiary and for the deconsolidation of a subsidiary. This statement clarifies that a non-controlling interest in a subsidiary is an ownership interest in the consolidated entity that should be reported as equity in the consolidated financial statements and requires retroactive adoption of the presentation and disclosure requirements for existing minority interests. All other requirements of this standard shall be applied prospectively. This standard is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008.  Adoption of this standard did not have a material impact.

Effect of Newly Issued But Not Yet Effective Accounting Standards In August 2009, the Financial Accounting Standards Board(“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2009-05, Measuring Liabilities at Fair Value , which is codified as ASC 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures . This update provides amendments to Topic 820-10, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures. This update provides clarification that in circumstances in which a quoted price in an active market for the identical liability is not available, a reporting entity is required to measure fair value using a valuation technique that uses the quoted price of the identical liability when traded as an asset, quoted prices for similar liabilities or similar liabilities when traded as assets, or that is consistent with the principles of Topic 820. The amendments in this update also clarify that when estimating the fair value of a liability, a reporting entity is not required to include a separate input or adjustment to other inputs relating to the existence of a restriction that prevents transfer of the liability. The amendments in this update also clarify that both a quoted price in an active market for the identical liability at the measurement date and the quoted price for the identical liability when traded as an asset in an active market when no adjustments to the quoted price of the asset are required are Level 1 fair value measurements. This update is effective for periods beginning after October 1, 2009 and we do not expect the adoption of this update will have a significant impact to our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
 
FASB ASC 715-20-65-2, Employers’ Disclosures about Postretirement Benefit Plan Assets, was issued in December 2008. This staff position provides guidance on an employer’s   disclosures about plan assets of a defined benefit pension or other postretirement plan. This standard requires disclosure of the fair   value of each major category of plan assets for pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans. This standard   becomes effective for us on January 1, 2010.  Adoption of this standard is not expected to have a material impact.

SFAS 166, Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets (not yet integrated into the ASC), was issued in June 2009.  This statement amends and removes the concept of a qualifying special-purpose entity and limits the circumstances in which a financial asset, or portion of a financial asset, should be derecognized when the transferor has not transferred the entire financial asset to an entity that is not consolidated with the transferor in the financial statements being presented and/or when the transferor has continuing involvement with the transferred financial asset. The new standard will become effective for us on January 1, 2010. We are currently evaluating the impact of adopting this standard but do not expect the impact of adoption to be material to our results of operation or financial position.

SFAS 167, Amendments to FASB Interpretation No. 46(R) (not yet integrated into the ASC), was also issued in June 2009 and amends tests for variable interest entities to determine whether a variable interest entity must be consolidated. This standard requires an entity to perform an analysis to determine whether an entity’s variable interest or interests give it a controlling financial interest in a variable interest entity. This statement requires ongoing reassessments of whether an entity is the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity and enhanced disclosures that provide more transparent information about an entity’s involvement with a variable interest entity. The new standard will become effective for us on January 1, 2010. We are currently evaluating the impact of adopting the standard but do not expect the impact of adoption to be material to our results of operation or financial position.

 
12

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
2. 
SECURITIES

The amortized cost basis and fair values of securities are as follows:

         
Gross
   
Gross
       
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Amortized
   
Unrealized
   
Unrealized
       
   
Cost
   
Gains
   
Losses
   
Fair Value
 
Securities available-for-sale:
                       
September 30, 2009:
                       
U.S. Treasury and agencies
  $ 15,000     $ 122     $ -     $ 15,122  
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities
    4,834       180       -       5,014  
Equity
    933       43       -       976  
State and municipal
    13,591       467       (78 )     13,980  
Trust preferred securities
    2,108       -       (2,056 )     52  
                                 
Total
  $ 36,466     $ 812     $ (2,134 )   $ 35,144  
                                 
December 31, 2008:
                               
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities
  $ 6,079     $ 70     $ (10 )   $ 6,139  
Equity
    933       17       (2 )     948  
State and municipal
    9,558       3       (946 )     8,615  
Trust preferred securities
    2,732       -       (2,659 )     73  
                                 
Total
  $ 19,302     $ 90     $ (3,617 )   $ 15,775  

         
Gross
   
Gross
       
   
Amortized
   
Unrecognized
   
Unrecognized
       
   
Cost
   
Gains
   
Losses
   
Fair Value
 
Securities held-to-maturity:
                       
September 30, 2009:
                       
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities
  $ 1,077     $ 8     $ -     $ 1,085  
State and municipal
    245       5       -       250  
Trust preferred securities
    24       -       -       24  
                                 
Total
  $ 1,346     $ 13     $ -     $ 1,359  
                                 
December 31, 2008:
                               
U.S. Treasury and agencies
  $ 4,503     $ 54     $ -     $ 4,557  
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities
    1,780       -       (7 )     1,773  
State and municipal
    481       2       -       483  
Trust preferred securities
    258       -       (225 )     33  
                                 
Total
  $ 7,022     $ 56     $ (232 )   $ 6,846  
 
 
13

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

2. 
SECURITIES – (Continued)

The amortized cost and fair value of securities at September 30, 2009, by contractual maturity, are shown below.  Securities not due at a single maturity date, primarily mortgage-backed and equity securities, are shown separately.

   
Amortized
   
Fair
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Cost
   
Value
 
Securities available-for-sale:
           
Due after one year through five years
  $ 15,115     $ 15,240  
Due after five years through ten years
    373       371  
Due after ten years
    15,211       13,543  
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities
    4,834       5,014  
Equity
    933       976  
Total
  $ 36,466     $ 35,144  
                 
   
Amortized
   
Fair
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Cost
   
Value
 
Securities held-to-maturity:
               
Due in one year or less
  $ 245     $ 250  
Due after ten years
    24       24  
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities
     1,077        1,085  
Total
  $ 1,346     $ 1,359  

There were not any sales of available-for-sale securities for the September 30, 2009 period.  For the quarter and nine month periods ended September 30, 2008, proceeds from sales of available-for-sale securities were $679,000 and gross realized gains recognized in income were $52,000.

Investment securities pledged to secure public deposits and FHLB advances had an amortized cost of $31.8 million and fair value of $32.5 million at September 30, 2009 and a $19.6 million amortized cost and fair value of $18.8 million at December 31, 2008.

 
14

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

2. 
SECURITIES – (Continued)

The following table summarizes the investment securities with unrealized losses at September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008 by aggregated major security type and length of time in a continuous unrealized loss position:

September 30, 2009
 
Less than 12 Months
   
12 Months or More
   
Total
 
   
Fair
   
Unrealized
 
Fair
   
Unrealized
   
Fair
   
Unrealized
 
Description of Securities
 
Value
   
Loss
   
Value
   
Loss
   
Value
   
Loss
 
  
                                   
State and municipal
  $ 371     $ (1 )   $ 2,517     $ (77 )   $ 2,888     $ (78 )
Trust preferred securities
    -       -       52       (2,056 )     52       (2,056 )
  
                                               
Total temporarily impaired
  $ 371     $ (1 )   $ 2,569     $ (2,133 )   $ 2,940     $ (2,134 )
                                                 
December 31, 2008
 
Less than 12 Months
   
12 Months or More
   
Total
 
  
 
Fair
   
Unrealized
 
Fair
   
Unrealized
   
Fair
   
Unrealized
 
Description of Securities
 
Value
   
Loss
   
Value
   
Loss
   
Value
   
Loss
 
  
                                               
Government-sponsored  mortgage-backed securities
  $ 3,944     $ (15 )   $ 526     $ (2 )   $ 4,470     $ (17 )
Equity
    6       (2 )     -       -       6       (2 )
State and municipal
    938       (99 )     7,450       (847 )     8,388       (946 )
Trust preferred securities
    106       (2,884 )     -       -       106       (2,884 )
  
                                               
Total temporarily impaired
  $ 4,994     $ (3,000 )   $ 7,976     $ (849 )   $ 12,970     $ (3,849 )
 
We evaluate investment securities with significant declines in fair value on a quarterly basis to determinewhether they should be considered other-than-temporarily impaired under current accounting guidance,which generally provides that if a security is in an unrealized loss position, whether due to general market conditions or industry or issuer-specific factors, the holder of the securities must assess whether the impairment is other-than-temporary.

As discussed in Note 1, in early April 2009, the FASB issued FASB ASC 320-10-65, Recognition and Presentation of Other-Than-Temporary Impairments .  Among other provisions, the guidance requires entities to split other than temporary impairment charges between credit losses (i.e., the loss based on the entity’s estimate of the decrease in cash flows, including those that result from expected voluntary prepayments), which are charged to earnings, and the remainder of the impairment charge (non-credit component) to accumulated other comprehensive income. This requirement pertains to both securities held to maturity and securities available for sale.

The unrealized losses on the state and municipal securities were caused primarily by interest rate decreases.  The contractual terms of those investments do not permit the issuer to settle the securities at a price less than the amortized cost of the investment.  Because we do not have the intent to sell these securities and it is likely that we will not be required to sell the securities before their anticipated recovery, we do not consider these investments to be other-than-temporarily impaired at September 30, 2009.  We also considered the financial condition and near term prospects of the issuer and identified no matters that would indicate less than full recovery.

As discussed in Note 6 - Fair Value, the fair value of our portfolio of trust preferred securities, has decreased significantly as a result of the current credit crisis and lack of liquidity in the financial markets.  There are limited trades in trust preferred securities and the majority of holders of such instruments have elected not to participate in the market unless they are required to sell as a result of liquidation, bankruptcy, or other forced or distressed conditions.

 
15

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

2. 
SECURITIES – (Continued)
 
To determine if the five trust preferred securities were other than temporarily impaired as of September 30, 2009, we used a discounted cash flow analysis.  The cash flow models used were used to determine if the current present value of the cash flows expected on each security were still equivalent to the original cash flows projected on the security when purchased.   The cash flow analysis takes into consideration assumptions for prepayments, defaults and deferrals for the underlying pool of banks, insurance companies and REITs.

Management works with independent third parties to identify its best estimate of the cash flow estimatedto be collected. If this estimate results in a present value of expected cash flows that is less than theamortized cost basis of a security (that is, credit loss exists), an OTTI is considered to have occurred. If there is no credit loss, any impairment is considered temporary. The cash flow analysis we performed included the following general assumptions:

 
·
We assume default rates on individual entities behind the pools based on Fitch ratings for financial institutions and A.M. Best ratings for insurance companies.  These ratings are used to predict the default rates for the next seven quarters.
 
·
We assume that annual defaults for the remaining life of each security will be 37.5 basis points.
 
·
We assume a recovery rate of 15% on deferrals after two years.
 
·
We assume 2% prepayments through the five year par call and then 2% per annum for the remaining life of the security.
 
·
Our securities have been modeled using the above assumptions by FTN Financial using the forward LIBOR curve plus original spread to discount projected cash flows to present values.

Additionally, in making our determination, we considered all available market information that could be obtained without undue cost and effort, and considered the unique characteristics of each trust preferred security individually by assessing the available market information and the various risks associated with that security including:

 
·
Valuation estimates provided by our investment broker;
 
·
The amount of fair value decline;
 
·
How long the decline in fair value has existed;
 
·
Significant rating agency changes on the issuer;
 
·
Level of interest rates and any movement in pricing for credit and other risks;
 
·
Information about the performance of the underlying institutions that issued the debt instruments, such as net income, return on equity, capital adequacy, non-performing assets, Texas ratios, etc;
 
·
Our intent to sell the security or whether it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security before its anticipated recovery; and
 
·
Other relevant observable inputs.

 
16

 
 
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

2. 
SECURITIES – (Continued)

       
Moody's
                             
% of Current
 
       
Credit
 
Current
                   
Current
   
Deferrals  and
 
(Dollars in thousands)
     
Ratings
 
Moody's
             
Estimated
   
Deferrals
   
Defaults
 
       
When
 
Credit
 
Par
   
Book
   
Fair
   
and
   
to Current
 
Security
 
Tranche
 
Purchased
 
Ratings
 
Value
   
Value
   
Value
   
Defaults
   
Collateral
 
                                           
Preferred Term Securities IV
 
Mezzanine
   
A3
 
 Ca
  $ 244     $ 200     $ 24     $ 18,000       27 %
Preferred Term Securities VI
 
Mezzanine
   
A1
 
 Caa1
    259       24       24       25,000       61 %
Preferred Term Securities XV B1
 
Mezzanine
   
A2
 
 Ca
    1,004       829       15       131,550       22 %
Preferred Term Securities XXI C2
 
Mezzanine
   
A3
 
 Ca
    1,018       641       8       177,500       24 %
Preferred Term Securities XXII C1
 
Mezzanine
   
A3
 
 Ca
    503       438       5       317,500       23 %
                                                       
Total
                $ 3,028     $ 2,132     $ 76                  
 
The following table details the five debt securities with other-than-temporary impairment at September 30, 2009 and the related credit losses recognized in earnings:

 (Dollars in thousands)
 
PreTSL XXI
   
PreTSL XXII
   
PreTSL VI
   
PreTSL IV
   
PreTSL XV
   
Total
 
     
                                   
Amount of other-than-temporary impairment related to credit loss at January 1, 2009
  $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -  
Addition    
    393       66       25       44       175       703  
Amount of other-than-temporary impairment related to credit loss at September 30, 2009
  $ 393     $ 66     $ 25     $ 44     $ 175     $ 703  
 
 
17

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
3. 
LOANS

Loans are summarized as follows:

     
 
September 30,
   
December 31,
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
2009
   
2008
 
     
           
Commercial  
  $ 56,546     $ 56,863  
Real estate commercial
    623,473       563,314  
Real estate construction
    12,635       17,387  
Residential mortgage  
    177,898       165,337  
Consumer and home equity
    73,249       69,649  
Indirect consumer  
    37,229       31,754  
Loans held for sale  
    7,729       9,567  
     
    988,759       913,871  
Less:    
               
Net deferred loan origination fees
    (909 )     (870 )
Allowance for loan losses
    (16,173 )     (13,565 )
     
               
     
    (17,082 )     (14,435 )
     
               
Loans Receivable  
  $ 971,677     $ 899,436  
 
              The allowance for loan loss is summarized as follows:

   
As of and For the
   
As of and For the
 
   
Three Months Ended
   
Nine Months Ended
 
   
September 30,
   
September 30,
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
                         
Balance, beginning of period
  $ 14,236     $ 8,917     $ 13,565     $ 7,922  
Allowance related to acquisition
    -       -       -       327  
Provision for loan losses
    2,482       1,720       6,441       2,819  
Charge-offs
    (656 )     (191 )     (4,063 )     (766 )
Recoveries
    111       62       230       206  
Balance, end of period
  $ 16,173     $ 10,508     $ 16,173     $ 10,508  

Impaired loans are summarized below.  There were no impaired loans for the periods presented without an allowance allocation.

   
As of and For the
   
As of and For the
 
   
Nine Months Ended
   
Year Ended
 
   
September 30,
   
December 31,
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
2009
   
2008
 
             
End of period impaired loans
  $ 34,789     $ 16,769  
Amount of allowance for loan
               
loss allocated
    3,474       3,090  
 
 
18

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

3. 
LOANS – (Continued)

We report non-performing loans as impaired.  Our non-performing loans were as follows:

   
September 30,
   
December 31,
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
2009
   
2008
 
             
Restructured
  $ 2,358     $ 1,182  
Loans past due over 90 days still on accrual
    -       -  
Non accrual loans
    32,431       15,587  
Total
  $ 34,789     $ 16,769  
 
4. 
EARNINGS PER SHARE

The reconciliation of the numerators and denominators of the basic and diluted EPS is as follows:

   
Three Months Ended
   
Nine Months Ended
 
(Dollars in thousands,
 
September 30,
   
September 30,
 
except per share data)
 
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
                         
Basic:
                       
Net income
  $ 576     $ 991     $ 2,052     $ 4,973  
Less:
                               
Preferred stock dividends
    (250 )     -       (730 )     -  
Accretion on preferred stock discount
    (14 )     -       (39 )     -  
Net income available to common shareholders
  $ 312     $ 991     $ 1,283     $ 4,973  
Weighted average common shares
    4,704       4,667       4,690       4,665  
                                 
Diluted:
                               
Weighted average common shares
    4,704       4,667       4,690       4,665  
Dilutive effect of stock options and warrants
    30       17       13       24  
Weighted average common and incremental shares
    4,734       4,684       4,703       4,689  
                                 
Earnings Per Common Share:
                               
Basic
  $ 0.07     $ 0.21     $ 0.27     $ 1.07  
Diluted
  $ 0.07     $ 0.21     $ 0.27     $ 1.06  

Stock options for 127,590 and 154,505 shares of common stock were not included in the September 30, 2009 computation of diluted earnings per share for the quarter and year to date because their impact was anti-dilutive.  Stock options for 127,590 and 68,360 shares of common stock were not included in the 2008 computation of diluted earnings per share for the quarter and year to date because their impact was anti-dilutive.

5. 
STOCK OPTION PLAN

Our 2006 Stock Incentive Plan, which is shareholder approved, succeeded our 1998 Stock Option and Incentive Plan. Under the 2006 Plan, we may grant either incentive or non-qualified stock options to key employees and directors for a total of 647,350 shares of our common stock at not less than fair value at the date such options are granted. Options available for future grant under the 1998 Plan totaled 38,500 shares and were rolled into the 2006 Plan. We believe that the ability to award stock options and other forms of stock-based incentive compensation can assist us in attracting and retaining key employees. Stock-based incentive compensation is also a means to align the interests of key employees with those of our shareholders by providing awards intended to reward recipients for our long-term

 
19

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

5. 
STOCK OPTION PLAN - (Continued)

growth.   The option to purchase shares vest over periods of one to five years and expire ten years after the date of grant.   We issue new shares of common stock upon the exercise of stock options.   At September 30, 2009 options available for future grant under the 2006 Plan totaled 590,750.   Compensation cost related to options granted under the 1998 and 2006 Plans that was charged against earnings for the nine month periods ended September 30, 2009   and 2008 was $78,000 and $92,000.

The fair value of each option award is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option valuation model that uses various weighted-average assumptions.  The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant.  The expected volatility is based on the fluctuation in the price of a share of stock over the period for which the option is being valued and the expected life of the options granted represents the period of time the options are expected to be outstanding.  There were no stock option grants for the September 30, 2009 period.

A summary of option activity under the 1998 and 2006 Plans as of September 30, 2009 is presented below:

               
Weighted
       
         
Weighted
   
Average
       
   
Number
   
Average
   
Remaining
   
Aggregate
 
   
of
   
Exercise
   
Contractual
   
Intrinsic
 
   
Options
   
Price
   
Term
   
Value
 
                     
(Dollars In Thousands)
 
                         
Outstanding, beginning of period
    208,517     $ 19.19              
Granted during period
    -       -              
Forfeited during period
    (1,464 )     16.74              
Exercised during period
    (35,882 )     15.42              
Outstanding, end of period
    171,171     $ 20.00       5.0     $ -  
                                 
Eligible for exercise at period end
    121,991     $ 18.67       4.0     $ -  
 
The total intrinsic value of options exercised during the period ended September 30, 2009 was $119,000.  There were no options exercised, modified or settled in cash for the period ended September 30, 2008.  There was no tax benefit recognized from the option exercises as they are considered incentive stock options.  Management expects all outstanding unvested options will vest.

As of September 30, 2009 there was $178,000 of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested share-based compensation arrangements granted under the 1998 and 2006 Plans.  That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 3.0 years.  Cash received from option exercises under all share-based payment arrangements for the periods ended September 30, 2009 and 2008 was $101,000 and $0.

6. 
FAIR VALUE

US GAAP defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date and establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the use of inputs used in valuation methodologies into the following three levels:

Level 1: Quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets.  A quoted         price in an active market provides the most reliable evidence of fair value and shall be used to measure fair value whenever available.

 
20

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

6.
FAIR VALUE - (Continued)

Level 2: Significant other observable inputs other than Level 1 prices such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data.

Level 3: Significant unobservable inputs that reflect a reporting entity’s own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability.

We used the following methods and significant assumptions to estimate the fair value of available-for-sale-securities.

Available-for-sale securities: The fair values of equity securities are determined by obtaining quoted prices on nationally recognized securities exchanges (Level 1 inputs).  The fair values of debt securities are determined by a matrix pricing, which is a mathematical technique widely used in the industry to value debt securities without relying exclusively on quoted prices for the specific securities but rather by relying on the securities’ relationship to other benchmark quoted securities (Level 2 inputs).  In certain cases where there is limited activity or less transparency around inputs to the valuation, securities are classified within (Level 3) of the valuation hierarchy.  Discounted cash flows are calculated using spread to swap and LIBOR curves that are updated to incorporate loss severities, volatility, credit spread and optionality.  Rating agency and industry research reports as well as defaults and deferrals on individual securities are reviewed and incorporated into the calculations.

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis

Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized below:

         
Quoted Prices in
             
         
Active Markets  for
   
Significant Other
   
Significant
 
   
September 30,
   
Identical Assets
   
Observable  Inputs
   
Unobservable  Inputs
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
2009
   
(Level 1)
   
(Level 2)
   
(Level 3)
 
                         
Assets:
                       
U.S. Treasury and agencies
  $ 15,122     $ -     $ 15,122     $ -  
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities
    5,014       -       5,014       -  
Equity
    976       685       -       291  
State and municipal
    13,980       -       13,980       -  
Trust preferred securities
    52       -       -       52  
                                 
Total
  $ 35,144     $ 685     $ 34,116     $ 343  

         
Quoted Prices in
             
         
Active Markets for
   
Significant Other
   
Significant
 
   
December 31,
   
Identical Assets
   
Observable Inputs
   
Unobservable Inputs
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
2008
   
(Level 1)
   
(Level 2)
   
(Level 3)
 
                         
Assets:
                       
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities
  $ 6,139     $ -     $ 6,139     $ -  
Equity
    948       657       -       291  
State and municipal
    8,615       -       8,615       -  
Trust preferred securities
    73       -       -       73  
                                 
Total
  $ 15,775     $ 657     $ 14,754     $ 364  
 
 
21

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

6. 
FAIR VALUE - (Continued)

Between June 2002 and July 2006, we invested in four AFS and one HTM investment grade tranches of trust preferred collateralized debt obligation (“CDO”) securities.  The securities were issued and are referred to as Preferred Term Securities Limited (“PreTSL”).  The underlying collateral for the PreTSL is unguaranteed pooled trust preferred securities issued by banks, insurance companies and REITs geographically dispersed across the United States.  We hold five PreTSL securities, none of which are currently investment grade.  Prior to September 30, 2008, we determined the fair value of the trust preferred securities using a valuation technique based on Level 2 inputs.  The Level 2 inputs included estimates of the market value for each security provided through our investment broker.

Since late 2007, the markets for collateralized debt obligations and trust preferred securities have become increasingly inactive.  The inactivity was first evidenced in late 2007 when new issues of similar securities were discounted in order to complete the offering.  Beginning in the second quarter of 2008, the purchase and sale activity of these securities substantially decreased as investors elected to hold the securities instead of selling them at substantially depressed prices.  Our brokers have indicated that little if any activity is occurring in this sector and that the PreTSL securities trades that are taking place are primarily distressed sales where the seller must liquidate as a result of insolvency, redemptions or closure of a fund holding the security, or other distressed conditions.  As a result, the bid-ask spreads have widened significantly and the volume of trades decreased significantly compared to historical volumes.

As of September 30, 2009, we determined that the market for the trust preferred securities that we hold and for similar CDO securities (such as higher-rated tranches within the same CDO security) are also not active.  That determination was made considering that there are few observable transactions for the trust preferred securities or similar CDO securities and the observable prices for those transactions have varied substantially over time.  Consequently, we have considered those observable inputs and determined that our trust preferred securities are classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

We have determined that an income approach valuation technique (using cash flows and present value techniques) that maximizes the use of relevant observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs is equally or more representative of fair value than relying on the estimation of market value technique used at prior measurement dates, which now has few observable inputs and relies on an inactive market with distressed sales conditions that would require significant adjustments.  

We received valuation estimates on our trust preferred securities for September 30, 2009.  Those valuation estimates were based on proprietary pricing models utilizing significant unobservable inputs in an inactive market with distressed sales, Level 3 inputs, rather than actual transactions in an active market.  

In accordance with current accounting guidance, we determined that a risk-adjusted discount rate appropriately reflects the reporting entity’s estimate of the assumptions that market participants would use in an active market to estimate the selling price of the asset at the measurement date.  

We conduct a thorough review of fair value hierarchy classifications on a quarterly basis.  Reclassification of certain financial instruments may occur when input observability changes.

 
22

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

6. 
FAIR VALUE - (Continued)

The table below presents a reconciliation and income statement classification of gains and losses for all assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) for the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2009:

   
Fair Value
 
   
Measurements
 
   
Using Significant
 
   
Unobservable Inputs
 
   
(Level 3)
 
   
Three months ended
 
   
September 30, 2009
 
       
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Asset/Liability
 
       
Beginning balance, July 1, 2009
  $ 539  
Total gains or losses realized:
       
Included in earnings
       
Impairment charges on securities
    (304 )
Increase in fair value of securities
    108  
Transfers in and/or out of Level 3
    -  
Ending balance, September 30, 2009
  $ 343  

   
Fair Value
 
   
Measurements
 
   
Using Significant
 
   
Unobservable Inputs
 
   
(Level 3)
 
   
NIne months ended
 
   
September 30, 2009
 
       
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Asset/Liability
 
       
Beginning balance, January 1, 2009
  $ 364  
Total gains or losses realized:
       
Included in earnings
       
Impairment charges on securities
    (703 )
Increase in fair value of securities
    682  
Transfers in and/or out of Level 3
    -  
Ending balance, September 30, 2009
  $ 343  
 
 
23

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

6. 
FAIR VALUE - (Continued)

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis

Assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis are summarized below:

         
Quoted Prices in
             
         
Active Markets  for
   
Significant Other
   
Significant
 
   
September  30,
   
Identical Assets
   
Observable Inputs
   
Unobservable  Inputs
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
2009
   
(Level 1)
   
(Level 2)
   
(Level 3)
 
                         
Assets:
                       
Impaired Loans
  $ 31,315     $ -     $ -     $ 31,315  
Real estate acquired through foreclosure
    8,184       -       -       8,184  

         
Quoted Prices in
             
         
Active Markets  for
   
Significant Other
   
Significant
 
   
December  31,
   
Identical Assets
   
Observable Inputs
   
Unobservable  Inputs
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
2008
   
(Level 1)
   
(Level 2)
   
(Level 3)
 
                         
Assets:
                       
Impaired Loans
  $ 13,679     $ -     $ -     $ 13,679  
Real estate acquired through foreclosure
    -       -       -       -  

Impaired loans, which are measured for impairment using the fair value of the collateral for collateral dependent loans, had a carrying amount of $34.8 million, with a valuation allowance of $3.5 million, resulting in an additional provision for loan losses of $34,000 and $384,000 for the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2009.  Values for collateral dependent loans are generally based on appraisals obtained from licensed real estate appraisals and in certain circumstances consideration of offers obtained to purchase properties prior to foreclosure.  Appraisals for commercial real estate generally use three methods to derive value: cost, sales or market comparison and income approach.  The cost method bases value on the estimated cost to replace the current property after considering adjustments for depreciation.  Values of the market comparison approach evaluate the sales price of similar properties in the same market area.  The income approach considers net operating income generated by the property and an investors required return.  The final value is a reconciliation of these three approaches and takes into consideration any other factors management deems relevant to arrive at a representative fair value.

Real estate owned acquired through foreclosure is recorded at lower of cost or fair value less estimatedselling costs at the date of foreclosure.  Fair value is based on the appraised market value of the propertybased on sales of similar assets.  The fair value may be subsequently reduced if the estimated fair value declines below the original appraised value. Fair value adjustments of $305,000 and $555,000 were made to real estate owned during the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2009.
 
24


NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

6. 
FAIR VALUE - (Continued)

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The estimated fair value of financial instruments not previously presented is as follows:
 

 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
September 30, 2009
   
December 31, 2008
 
   
Carrying
   
Fair
   
Carrying
   
Fair
 
   
Value
   
Value
   
Value
   
Value
 
Financial assets:
                       
Cash and due from banks
  $ 20,101     $ 20,101     $ 20,905     $ 20,905  
Securities held-to-maturity
    1,346       1,359       7,022       6,846  
Loans held for sale
    7,729       7,791       9,567       9,702  
Loans, net
    963,948       1,004,351       889,869       925,817  
Accrued interest receivable
    5,064       5,064       4,379       4,379  
FHLB stock
    8,515       N/A       8,515       N/A  
                                 
Financial liabilities:
                               
Deposits
    937,718       938,542       775,399       777,743  
Short-term borrowings
    2,200       2,200       94,869       94,869  
Advances from Federal Home Loan Bank
    52,777       56,461       52,947       57,757  
Subordinated debentures
    18,000       12,743       18,000       12,804  
Accrued interest payable
    340       340       288       288  

The methods and assumptions used in estimating fair value disclosures for financial instruments are presented below:

Carrying amount is the estimated fair value for cash and cash equivalents, interest bearing deposits, accrued interest receivable and payable, demand deposits, short-term debt and variable rate loans or deposits that reprice frequently and fully.  Held-to-maturity securities fair values are based on market prices or dealer quotes and if no such information is available, on the rate and term of the security and information about the issuer.  The value of loans held for sale is based on the underlying sale commitments.  For fixed rate loans or deposits and for variable rate loans or deposits with infrequent reprising or reprising limits, fair value is based on discounted cash flows using current market rates applied to the estimated life and credit risk.  Fair values of advances from Federal Home Loan Bank and subordinated debentures are based on current rates for similar financing.  The fair value of off-balance-sheet items is based on the current fees or cost that would be charged to enter into or terminate such arrangements and is not material.  It is not practicable to determine the fair value of FHLB stock due to restrictions placed on its transferability.

7. 
PREFERRED STOCK AND REGULATORY CAPITAL

On October 3, 2008, Congress passed the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 (EESA), which creates the Troubled Asset Relief Program (“TARP”) and provides the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury with broad authority to implement certain actions to help restore stability and liquidity to U.S. markets. The Capital Purchase Program (the “CPP”) was announced by the U.S. Treasury on October 14, 2008 as part of TARP. Pursuant to the CPP, the U.S. Treasury can purchase up to $250 billion of senior preferred shares on standardized terms from qualifying financial institutions. The purpose of the CPP is to encourage U.S. financial institutions to build capital to increase the flow of financing to U.S. businesses and consumers and to support the U.S. economy.

 
25

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

7.
PREFERRED STOCK AND REGULATORY CAPITAL - (Continued)

The CPP is voluntary and requires a participating institution to comply with a number of restrictions and provisions, including standards for executive compensation and corporate governance and limitations on share repurchases and the declaration and payment of dividends on common shares. The standard terms of the CPP require that a participating financial institution limit the payment of dividends to the most recent quarterly amount prior to October 14, 2008, which is $0.19 per share in our case. This dividend limitation will remain in effect until the earlier of three years or such time that the preferred shares are redeemed.

Eligible financial institutions could generally apply to issue senior preferred shares to the U.S. Treasury in aggregate amounts ranging from 1% to 3% of the institution’s risk-weighted assets. We applied for an investment by the U.S. Treasury of $20 million, which was approved by the U.S. Treasury on December 8, 2008.  On January 9, 2009, we issued $20 million of cumulative perpetual preferred shares, with a liquidation preference of $1,000 per share (the “Senior Preferred Shares”). The Senior Preferred Shares constitute Tier 1 capital and rank senior to our common shares. The Senior Preferred Shares pay cumulative dividends quarterly at a rate of 5% per annum for the first five years and will reset to a rate of 9% per annum after five years. The Senior Preferred Shares may be redeemed at any time, at our option.

We also issued a warrant to purchase 215,983 common shares to the U.S. Treasury at a purchase price of $13.89 per share. The aggregate purchase price equals 15% of the aggregate amount of the Senior Preferred Shares purchased by the U.S. Treasury or $3 million. The initial purchase price per share for the warrant and the number of common shares subject to the warrant were determined by reference to the market price of the common shares (calculated on a 20-day trailing average) on December 8, 2008, the date the U.S. Treasury approved our TARP application. The warrant has a term of 10 years and is potentially dilutive to earnings per share.

On February 17, 2009, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (“ARRA”) was  enacted. As required by ARRA, the U.S. Treasury has issued additional compensation standards on  companies receiving financial assistance from the U.S. government. In addition, ARRA imposes  certain  new executive compensation and corporate expenditure limits on each current and future  CPP recipient,  including First Financial Service Corporation, until the recipient has repaid the Treasury.  ARRA  also  permits CPP participants to redeem the preferred shares held by the Treasury Department  without penalty and without the need to raise new capital, subject to the  Treasury’s consultation with  the recipient’s appropriate regulatory agency.

We currently have a regulatory agreement with the FDIC that requires us to obtain the consent of the  Regional Director of the FDIC and the Commissioner of the KOFI to declare and pay cash dividends.   We also have a regulatory agreement with the FDIC that requires us to maintain a Tier 1 capital ratio of  8%.  We are currently in compliance with the Tier 1 capital requirement.

8.
SUBSEQUENT EVENT

The Corporation maintains two lines of credit totaling $18 million with a correspondent bank.  The  Corporation borrowed $1.5 million against one of these lines of credit to pay its second quarter cash  dividend and for general operating expenses.  At September 30, 2009, the Corporation was in technical  default with two financial covenants and one operating covenant in regards to the lines of credit.  We  asked for and received a waiver for all three covenants as of September 30, 2009.

Subsequent to September 30, 2009, the Corporation's total borrowing capacity was reduced from $18 million to $1.5 million.  We also reduced the number of lines from two to  one.  The new line will have a maturity date of January 31, 2010.

 
26

 

Item 2.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

GENERAL

We operate 22 full-service banking centers and a commercial private banking center in eight contiguous counties in Central Kentucky along the Interstate 65 corridor and in the Louisville Metropolitan area, including southern Indiana.  Our markets range from Metro Louisville in Jefferson County, Kentucky approximately 40 miles north of our headquarters in Elizabethtown, Kentucky to Hart County, Kentucky, approximately 30 miles south of Elizabethtown to Harrison County, Indiana approximately 60 miles northwest of our headquarters.  Our markets are supported by a diversified industry base and have a regional population of over 1 million.  Based on the current economic slow-down, management anticipates that our markets may not continue to grow at the rate experienced over the last few years.  However, we believe we will still be well positioned to benefit from growth in our local markets when the economy rebounds in the future.

We serve the needs and cater to the economic strengths of the local communities in which we operate, and we strive to provide a high level of personal and professional customer service. We offer a variety of financial services to our retail and commercial banking customers. These services include personal and corporate banking services and personal investment financial counseling services.

Through   our personal investment financial counseling services, we offer a wide variety of mutual funds, equity investments, and fixed and variable annuities.  We invest in the wholesale capital markets to manage a portfolio of securities and use various forms of wholesale funding. The security portfolio contains a variety of instruments, including callable debentures, taxable and non-taxable debentures, fixed and adjustable rate mortgage backed securities, and collateralized mortgage obligations.

Our results of operations depend primarily on net interest income, which is the difference between interest income from interest-earning assets and interest expense on interest-bearing liabilities. Our operations are also affected by non-interest income, such as service charges, insurance agency revenue, loan fees, gains and losses from the sale of mortgage loans and gains from the sale of real estate held for development. Our principal operating expenses, aside from interest expense, consist of compensation and employee benefits, occupancy costs, data processing expense and provisions for loan losses.

The discussion and analysis in this report covers material changes in the financial condition since December 31, 2008 and material changes in the results of operations for the three and nine month periods ending September 30, 2009 as compared to the same periods in 2008.  It should be read in conjunction with "Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2008.

OVERVIEW

On June 25, 2008, we expanded our operations into southern Indiana with the acquisition of FSB Bancshares, Inc., the bank holding company for The Farmers State Bank.  The Farmers State Bank had approximately $65.7 million in total assets and $55.8 million in deposits.  The Farmers State Bank had four banking offices in Harrison and Floyd Counties in Indiana, which are adjacent to four Kentucky counties where we currently operate and are part of the Louisville MSA.  Upon completion of the acquisition, these four offices became branches of First Federal Savings Bank.

Over the past several years we have focused on enhancing and expanding our retail and commercial banking network in our core markets as well as establishing our presence in the Louisville market.  Our core markets, where we have a combined 23% market share, have become increasingly competitive as several new banks have entered those markets during the past few years.  In order to protect and grow our market share, we are replacing existing branches with newer, enhanced facilities and anticipate constructing new facilities over the next few years.  In addition to the enhancement and expansion in our core markets, we have been increasing our presence in the Louisville market.  Our acquisition of FSB Bancshares, Inc. has broadened our retail branch network in the Louisville market, which now extends into Southern Indiana.  Approximately 73% of the deposit base in the Louisville market is controlled by six out-of-state banks.  While the market is very competitive, we believe this creates an opportunity for smaller community banks with more power to make decisions locally.  We believe our investment in these initiatives along with our continued commitment to a high level of customer service will enhance our market share in our core markets and our development in the Louisville market.

 
27

 

Our retail branch network continues to generate encouraging results.   Total deposits have grown 46% over the past three years. Total deposits were $937.7 million at September 30, 2009, an increase of $162.3 million from December 31, 2008.  After our acquisition of Farmers State Bank in 2008, our retail branch network in the Louisville market has broadened to sixteen offices.  In May 2009, we opened the Fort Knox banking center, our twenty-first banking center, which expanded our current footprint in Hardin County, Kentucky.  The Fort Knox banking center complements our existing branch located in Radcliff, Kentucky and is located just outside the main entrance to the Fort Knox military base.   We also completed the construction of our twenty-second banking center which opened in July 2009. The branch is located in the Middletown area of Louisville, Kentucky.  Competition for deposits continues to be challenging in all of the markets we serve. We believe this intense competition combined with continued repricing of variable rate loans could add to additional margin compression.

We have developed a strong commercial real estate niche in our markets.  We have an experienced team of bankers who focus on providing service and convenience to our customers.  It is quite common for our bankers to close loans at a customer’s place of business or even the customer’s personal residence.   This high level of service has been well received in our Louisville market, which is dominated by regional banks.   To further develop our commercial banking relationships in Louisville, we opened a private banking office in April 2007.  This upscale facility complements our full service centers in Louisville by attracting commercial deposit relationships in conjunction with our commercial lending relationships.

Our emphasis on commercial lending generated 40% growth in the total loan portfolio and 46% growth in commercial loans over the past three years.   Commercial loans were $692.7 million at September 30, 2009, an increase of $55.1 million, or 8.6% from December 31, 2008.

Although we had growth in the loan portfolio during the first nine months, credit quality remained challenging in 2009.   There was a significant migration of loans into the Substandard loan categories during the period, resulting in a higher provision for loan losses.   At September 30, 2009, the allowance for loan losses was $16.2 million compared to $13.6 million at December 31, 2008.  The allowance for loan losses to non-performing loans fell to 46% from 81% at September 30, 2009 compared to December 31, 2008.

Despite the continued deterioration in economic conditions during the first nine months of 2009, the Corporation’s capital position remained well-capitalized as defined by regulatory standards.  Our capital position was further bolstered in the first quarter of 2009 by our participation in the U.S. Treasury Department Capital Purchase Program.  Under the Capital Purchase Program, we sold $20 million of cumulative perpetual preferred shares to the U.S. Treasury in a transaction that closed on January 9, 2009.

We believe that the economy is in a very deep and long lasting recession.  During the last quarter of 2008, the continued economic slowdown moved to sectors not previously impacted, including consumer, commercial, industrial among others.  Credit issues are broadening in these sectors and economic recovery is most likely several quarters away.  We will continue to monitor credit quality very closely in 2009 as this recession persists.  As the economy and the financial sector continue to struggle, probable losses in the loan portfolio could increase, resulting in higher provision for loan losses during 2009.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Our accounting and reporting policies comply with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and conform to general practices within the banking industry.  The accounting policies identified below are critical to the understanding of our results of operations since the application of these policies requires significant management assumptions and estimates that could result in materially different amounts to be reported if conditions or underlying circumstances were to change.
 
Allowance for Loan Losses We maintain an allowance sufficient to absorb probable incurred credit losses existing in the loan portfolio. Our Allowance for Loan Loss Review Committee, which is comprised of senior officers, evaluates the allowance for loan losses on a quarterly basis.  We estimate the allowance using past loan loss experience, known and inherent risks in the portfolio, adverse situations that may affect the borrower’s ability to repay, estimated value of the underlying collateral, and current economic conditions.  While we estimate the allowance for loan losses based in part on historical losses within each loan category, estimates for losses within the commercial real estate portfolio are more dependent upon credit analysis and recent payment performance. Allocations of the allowance may be made for specific loans or loan categories, but the entire allowance is available for any loan that, in management’s judgment, should be charged off. 

 
28

 

The allowance consists of specific and general components.  The specific component relates to loans that are individually classified as impaired or loans otherwise classified as substandard or doubtful.  The general component covers non-classified loans and is based on historical loss experience adjusted for current factors. Allowance estimates are developed with actual loss experience adjusted for current economic conditions.  Allowance estimates are considered a prudent measurement of the risk in the loan portfolio and are applied to individual loans based on loan type.

Based on our calculation, an allowance of $16.2 million   or 1.65% of total loans was our estimate of probable losses within the loan portfolio as of   September 30, 2009.   This estimate resulted in a provision for loan losses on the income statement of   $6.4 million for the 2009 nine month period.   If the mix and amount of future charge off percentages differ significantly from the assumptions used by management in making its determination, the allowance for loan losses and provision for loan losses on the income statement could materially increase.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets   – We record costs in excess of the estimated fair value of identified assets acquired through purchase transactions as an asset. In accordance with current accounting guidance we perform an annual impairment analysis to determine if the asset is impaired and needs to be written down to its fair value. We may conduct this assessment annually or more frequently if conditions warrant. No impairment was identified as a result of our most recent impairment analysis at March 31, 2009. In making these impairment analyses, management must make subjective assumptions regarding the fair value of our assets and liabilities. These judgments may change over time as market conditions or our strategies change, and these changes may cause us to record impairment changes to adjust the goodwill to its estimated fair value.

Impairment of Investment Securities We review   all unrealized losses to determine whether the losses are other-than-temporary.  We evaluate our investment securities for other-than-temporary impairment on at least a quarterly basis and more frequently when economic or market conditions warrant to determine whether a decline in the value of the securities below amortized cost is other-than-temporary.  We evaluate a number of factors including, but not limited to: a discounted cash flow analysis; valuation estimates provided by investment brokers; how much fair value has declined below amortized cost; how long the decline in fair value has existed; the financial condition of the issuer; significant rating agency changes on the issuer; and whether management has the intent to sell the debt security or whether it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the debt security before its anticipated recovery.

The term “other-than-temporary” is not intended to indicate that the decline is permanent, but indicates that the possibility for a near-term recovery of value is not necessarily favorable, or that there is a lack of evidence to support a realizable value equal to or greater than the carrying value of the investment.  Once a decline in value is determined to be other-than-temporary, the cost basis of the security is written down to fair value and a corresponding charge to earnings is recognized if the security is an equity security.  If other-than-temporary impairment exists for a debt security, the security’s carrying value is reduced by the amount of the credit loss and is charged to earnings while the remainder of the loss remains in other comprehensive income.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Net income for the quarter ended September 30, 2009 was $576,000 or $0.07 per common share diluted compared to $991,000 or $0.21 per common share diluted for the same period in 2008.   Net income for the nine month period ended September 30, 2009 was $2.1 million or $.27 per common share diluted compared to $5.0 million or $1.06 per common share diluted for the same period a year ago.  Earnings decreased for 2009 compared to 2008 due to a decrease in our net interest margin, an increase in provision for loan loss expense, write downs taken on real estate acquired through foreclosure, write downs taken on investment securities that were other-than-temporary impaired, and a higher level of non-interest expense related to our expansion efforts. Net income available to common shareholders was also impacted by dividends paid on preferred shares.   Our book value per common share decreased from $15.95 at September 30, 2008 to $15.80 at September 30, 2009.   Annualized net income for the first nine months of 2009 represented a return on average assets of .16% and a return on average equity of 1.85%.   These compare with a return on average assets of .72% and a return on average equity of 8.80% for the first nine months of 2008 also annualized.

Net Interest Income The principal source of our revenue is net interest income.  Net interest income is the difference between interest income on interest-earning assets, such as loans and securities and the interest expense on liabilities used to fund those assets, such as interest-bearing deposits and borrowings. Net interest income is affected by both changes in the amount and composition of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities as well as changes in market interest rates.

 
29

 

The growth in our commercial loan portfolio has increased net interest income.  The increase in the volume of interest earning assets increased net interest income by $963,000 and $3.4 million for the three and nine month 2009 periods compared to the same prior year periods.  Average interest earning assets increased $125.4 million for the 2009 quarter and $151.5 million for the nine months compared to 2008.  Despite the increase in interest earning assets, our net interest margin realized a modest decline.  The yield on earning assets averaged 5.75% and 5.85% for the three and nine month 2009 periods compared to an average yield on earning assets of 6.54% and 6.78% for the same periods in 2008.  This decrease was offset by a decrease in our cost of funds.  Net interest margin as a percent of average earning assets decreased   8 basis points to 3.64% for the quarter ended September 30, 2009 and 12 basis points to 3.69% for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 compared to 3.72% and 3.81% for the same periods in 2008.  

Our cost of funds averaged 2.29% and 2.36% for the quarter and nine month periods of 2009 compared to an average cost of funds of 3.05% and 3.24% for the same period in 2008. Going forward, our cost of funds is expected to continue to decrease as certificates of deposit re-price and roll off into new certificates of deposit at lower interest rates.

Our net interest margin is likely to compress in future quarters as a result of the FOMC decreasing the Federal Funds rate by 500 basis points since September 2007.  The current Federal Funds rate is a range of 0.00% to 0.25%.  Correspondingly, variable rate loans that are tied to the federal prime rate are immediately re-priced downward when the prime rate decreases.  However, interest rates paid on customer deposits, which are priced off of the London Interbank Offering Rate (LIBOR), have not adjusted downward proportionately with the declining interest yields on loans and investments.  LIBOR, which is a market driven rate, did not decline in rate as much as the prime rate.  Therefore, we do not expect our deposit costs to decline as fast as our yield on loans. Sixty percent of deposits are time deposits that re-price over a longer period of time.  This difference in the timing of the repricing of our assets and deposits is expected to continue to lower our net interest margin.

 
30

 

AVERAGE BALANCE SHEET

The following table provides information relating to our average balance sheet and reflects the average yield on assets and average cost of liabilities for the indicated periods.  Yields and costs for the periods presented are derived by dividing income or expense by the average monthly balance of assets or liabilities, respectively.

     
 
Quarter Ended September 30,
 
     
 
2009
   
2008
 
     
                                   
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Average 
Balance
   
Interest
   
Average
Yield/Cost (5)
   
Average
Balance
   
Interest
   
Average
Yield/Cost (5)
 
     
                                   
ASSETS    
                                   
Interest earning assets:
                                   
U.S. Treasury and agencies
  $ 15,024     $ 75       1.98 %   $ 5,332     $ 49       3.66 %
Mortgage-backed securities
    6,373       65       4.05       8,501       91       4.26  
Equity securities  
    977       25       10.15       1,775       12       2.69  
State and political subdivision securities (1)  
    12,580       207       6.53       9,416       136       5.75  
Corporate bonds  
    265       26       38.93       3,110       47       6.01  
Loans (2) (3) (4)  
    984,468       14,410       5.81       861,230       14,337       6.62  
FHLB stock  
    8,515       103       4.80       8,410       113       5.35  
Interest bearing deposits
    2,706       18       2.64       7,685       90       4.66  
Total interest earning assets
    1,030,908       14,929       5.75       905,459       14,875       6.54  
Less:  Allowance for loan losses
    (14,753 )                     (9,029 )                
Non-interest earning assets
    87,857                       84,270                  
Total assets  
  $ 1,104,012                     $ 980,700                  
     
                                               
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
                                               
Interest bearing liabilities:
                                               
Savings accounts  
  $ 115,882     $ 236       0.81 %   $ 114,518     $ 442       1.54 %
NOW and money market
                                               
accounts  
    179,348       352       0.78       142,036       322       0.90  
Certificates of deposit and
                                               
other time deposits
    525,372       3,925       2.96       478,747       4,561       3.79  
Short term borrowings
    57,235       27       0.19       29,392       156       2.11  
FHLB advances  
    52,788       601       4.52       52,993       610       4.58  
Subordinated debentures
    18,000       331       7.30       18,000       315       6.96  
Total interest bearing liabilities
    948,625       5,472       2.29       835,686       6,406       3.05  
Non-interest bearing liabilities:
                                               
Non-interest bearing deposits
    58,176                       62,606                  
Other liabilities  
    3,481                       6,261                  
Total liabilities  
    1,010,282                       904,553                  
     
                                               
Stockholders' equity  
    93,730                       76,147                  
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
  $ 1,104,012                     $ 980,700                  
     
                                               
Net interest income  
          $ 9,457                     $ 8,469          
Net interest spread  
                    3.46 %                     3.49 %
Net interest margin  
                    3.64 %                     3.72 %

(1)
Taxable equivalent yields are calculated assuming a 34% federal income tax rate.
(2)
Includes loan fees, immaterial in amount, in both interest income and the calculation of yield on loans.
(3)
Calculations include non-accruing loans in the average loan amounts outstanding.
(4)
Includes loans held for sale.
(5)
Annualized
 
 
31

 

     
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
     
 
2009
   
2008
 
     
                                   
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Average
Balance
   
Interest
   
Average
Yield/Cost (5)
   
Average
Balance
   
Interest
   
Average
Yield/Cost (5)
 
     
                                   
ASSETS
                                   
Interest earning assets:
                                   
U.S. Treasury and agencies
  $ 10,306     $ 177       2.30 %   $ 7,126     $ 216       4.05 %
Mortgage-backed securities
    7,058       221       4.19       9,311       297       4.26  
Equity securities  
    953       82       11.50       1,683       42       3.33  
State and political subdivision
                                               
securities (1)  
    10,961       547       6.67       9,478       450       6.34  
Corporate bonds  
    222       86       51.79       3,092       123       5.31  
Loans (2) (3) (4)  
    963,728       42,509       5.90       811,036       41,718       6.87  
FHLB stock  
    8,515       290       4.55       7,983       317       5.30  
Interest bearing deposits
    2,749       69       3.36       3,257       100       4.10  
Total interest earning assets
    1,004,492       43,981       5.85       852,966       43,263       6.78  
Less:  Allowance for loan losses
    (14,465 )                     (8,537 )                
Non-interest earning assets
    84,899                       75,195                  
Total assets  
  $ 1,074,926                     $ 919,624                  
     
                                               
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
                                               
Interest bearing liabilities:
                                               
Savings accounts  
  $ 115,323     $ 634       0.74 %   $ 105,827     $ 1,389       1.75 %
NOW and money market
                                               
accounts  
    166,202       861       0.69       135,172       1,078       1.07  
Certificates of deposit and other time deposits
    502,542       11,864       3.16       437,792       13,348       4.07  
Short term borrowings
    66,866       117       0.23       34,132       661       2.59  
FHLB advances  
    52,737       1,798       4.56       53,026       1,808       4.55  
Subordinated debentures
    18,000       989       7.35       13,556       649       6.40  
Total interest bearing liabilities
    921,670       16,263       2.36       779,505       18,933       3.24  
Non-interest bearing liabilities:
                                               
Non-interest bearing deposits
    57,230                       58,847                  
Other liabilities  
    3,093                       5,762                  
Total liabilities  
    981,993                       844,114                  
     
                                               
Stockholders' equity  
    92,933                       75,510                  
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
  $ 1,074,926                     $ 919,624                  
     
                                               
Net interest income  
          $ 27,718                     $ 24,330          
Net interest spread  
                    3.49 %                     3.54 %
Net interest margin  
                    3.69 %                     3.81 %

(1)
Taxable equivalent yields are calculated assuming a 34% federal income tax rate.
(2)
Includes loan fees, immaterial in amount, in both interest income and the calculation of yield on loans.
(3)
Calculations include non-accruing loans in the average loan amounts outstanding.
(4)
Includes loans held for sale.
(5)
Annualized

 
32

 

RATE/VOLUME ANALYSIS

The table below shows changes in interest income and interest expense for the periods indicated.  For each category of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, information is provided on changes attributable to (1) changes in rate (changes in rate multiplied by old volume); (2) changes in volume (change in volume multiplied by old rate); and (3) changes in rate-volume (change in rate multiplied by change in volume).  Changes in rate-volume are proportionately allocated between rate and volume variance.

                             
 
Three Months Ended
September 30,
2009 vs. 2008
Increase (decrease)
Due to change in
   
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
2009 vs. 2008
Increase (decrease)
Due to change in
 
(Dollars in thousands)
             
Net
               
Net
 
   
Rate
   
Volume
   
Change
   
Rate
   
Volume
   
Change
 
Interest income:  
                                   
U.S. Treasury and agencies
  $ (31 )   $ 57     $ 26     $ (115 )   $ 76     $ (39 )
Mortgage-backed securities
    (4 )     (22 )     (26 )     (6 )     (70 )     (76 )
Equity securities  
    21       (8 )     13       65       (25 )     40  
State and political subdivision securities  
    20       50       70       24       73       97  
Corporate bonds  
    56       (77 )     (21 )     173       (210 )     (37 )
Loans    
    (1,845 )     1,917       72       (6,426 )     7,217       791  
FHLB stock  
    (11 )     2       (9 )     (47 )     20       (27 )
Interest bearing deposits
    (28 )     (43 )     (71 )     (17 )     (14 )     (31 )
     
                                               
Total interest earning assets
    (1,822 )     1,876       54       6,349 )     7,067       718  
     
                                               
Interest expense:  
                                               
Savings accounts  
    (211 )     5       (206 )     (870 )     115       (755 )
NOW and money market accounts
    (47 )     77       30       (430 )     213       (217 )
Certificates of deposit and other time deposits  
    (1,050 )     414       (636 )     (3,282 )     1,798       (1,484 )
Short term borrowings
    (208 )     79       (129 )     (882 )     338       (544 )
FHLB advances  
    (7 )     (2 )     (9 )     -       (10 )     (10 )
Subordinated debentures
    16       -       16       106       234       340  
     
                                               
Total interest bearing liabilities
    (1,507 )     573       (934 )     (5,358 )     2,688       (2,670 )
     
                                               
Net change in net interest income
  $ (315 )   $ 1,303     $ 988     $ (991 )   $ 4,379     $ 3,388  

Non-Interest Income and Non-Interest Expense

The following tables compare the components of non-interest income and expenses for the periods ended September 30, 2009 and 2008.  The tables show the dollar and percentage change from 2008 to 2009.  Below each table is a discussion of significant changes and trends.

   
Three Months Ended
 
   
September 30,
 
(Dollars in thousands) 
 
2009
   
2008
   
Change
   
%
 
Non-interest income
                       
Customer service fees on deposit accounts
  $ 1,750     $ 1,817     $ (67 )     -3.7 %
Gain on sale of mortgage loans
    300       179       121       67.6 %
Gain on sale of investments
    -       52       (52 )     -100.0 %
Net impairment losses recognized in earnings
    (304 )     -       (304 )     100.0 %
Write down on real estate acquired through foreclosure
    (305 )     (151 )     (154 )     102.0 %
Brokerage commissions
    89       109       (20 )     -18.3 %
Other income
    365       361       4       1.1 %
    $ 1,895     $ 2,367     $ (472 )     -19.9 %

 
33

 

   
Nine Months Ended
 
   
September 30,
 
(Dollars in thousands) 
 
2009
   
2008
   
Change
   
%
 
Non-interest income
                       
Customer service fees on deposit accounts
  $ 4,872     $ 4,865     $ 7       0.1 %
Gain on sale of mortgage loans
    832       566       266       47.0 %
Gain on sale of investments
    -       52       (52 )     -100.0 %
Net impairment losses recognized in earnings
    (703 )     (216 )     (487 )     225.5 %
Write down on real estate acquired through foreclosure
    (555 )     (160 )     (395 )     246.9 %
Brokerage commissions
    281       352       (71 )     -20.2 %
Other income
    1,263       1,001       262       26.2 %
    $ 5,990     $ 6,460     $ (470 )     -7.3 %

We originate qualified VA, KHC, RHC and conventional secondary market loans and sell them into the secondary market with servicing rights released.  For the quarter and year to date, gain on sale of mortgage loans increased due to an increase in mortgage refinance activity.
 
We invest in various types of liquid assets, including United States Treasury obligations, securities of various federal agencies, obligations of states and political subdivisions, corporate bonds, mutual funds, stocks and others.  During the third quarter of 2008 we recorded a gain on sale of investments of $52,000.  Gains on investment securities are infrequent in nature and are not a consistent recurring source of income.
 
We recognized other-than-temporary impairment charges of $703,000 for the expected credit loss during the 2009 nine month period on all five of our trust preferred securities. Management believes this impairment was primarily attributable to the current economic environment which caused the financial conditions of some of the issuers to deteriorate. During 2008, we recognized other-than-temporary impairment charges of $216,000 on certain equity securities with a cost basis of $840,000.
 
Further reducing non-interest income for the 2009 period was a 10% or $555,000 write-down of the carrying value of real estate owned properties that had been held for twelve months.
 
Other income increased year to date as a result of gains recorded on the sale of a real estate acquired through foreclosure properties and loan underwriter fees due to increased loan demand.
 
   
Three Months Ended
 
   
September 30,
 
 (Dollars in thousands)
 
2009
   
2008
   
Change
   
%
 
 Non-interest expenses
                       
  Employee compensation and benefits
  $ 4,042     $ 3,867     $ 175       4.5 %
  Office occupancy expense and equipment
    832       779       53       6.8 %
  Marketing and advertising
    225       215       10       4.7 %
  Outside services and data processing
    793       882       (89 )     -10.1 %
  Bank franchise tax
    257       258       (1 )     -0.4 %
  FDIC insurance premiums
    414       102       312       305.9 %
  Amortization of core deposit intangible
    100       56       44       78.6 %
  Other expense
    1,365       1,478       (113 )     -7.6 %
    $ 8,028     $ 7,637     $ 391       5.1 %

   
Nine Months Ended
 
   
September 30,
 
 (Dollars in thousands)
 
2009
   
2008
   
Change
   
%
 
 Non-interest expenses
                       
  Employee compensation and benefits
  $ 12,193     $ 10,765     $ 1,428       13.3 %
  Office occupancy expense and equipment
    2,488       2,112       376       17.8 %
  Marketing and advertising
    735       638       97       15.2 %
  Outside services and data processing
    2,381       2,365       16       0.7 %
  Bank franchise tax
    778       761       17       2.2 %
  FDIC insurance premiums
    1,381       286       1,095       382.9 %
  Amortization of core deposit intangible
    302       59       243       411.9 %
  Other expense
    3,998       3,505       493       14.1 %
    $ 24,256     $ 20,491     $ 3,765       18.4 %
 
34

 
Employee compensation and benefits is the largest component of non-interest expense.  Since early 2008, we have added sixteen associates with our expansion efforts.  These associates were hired for a new Bullitt County retail branch facility that opened in August 2008, a new Hardin County retail branch facility that opened in May 2009, a new Louisville retail branch facility that opened in July 2009 and to fill other positions to support our growth.  We added twenty additional associates in the second quarter of 2008 as a result of the recent acquisition in Southern Indiana.  We look for a continued increase in employee compensation and benefits expense in line with recent years, as we progress with our retail expansion and market protection efforts.

Office occupancy expense and equipment and marketing and advertising increased due to additional operating expenses related to our expansion efforts.  We anticipate the increased level of non-interest expense to continue in 2009 with additional retail expansion.   We have opened full-service banking centers at Fort Knox and in the Middletown area of Jefferson County since March 31, 2009.

Other expense increased due to increases in interchange expense, postage and courier, REO expense, losses on NOW accounts and other operating expenses.  Interchange expense increased due to the switch to real-time debit card processing, which is more expensive per item than the batch processing method we used previously.   REO expense relating to repair, maintenance and taxes increased due to increases in real estate we acquired through foreclosure.

The FDIC charges insured financial institutions premiums to maintain the Deposit Insurance Fund at a certain level.  See Part I, Item 1, "Business – Federal Deposit Insurance Assessments " in our 2008 Form 10-K for additional information.  On October 16, 2008, the FDIC published a restoration plan designed to replenish the Deposit Insurance Fund over a period of five years and to increase the deposit insurance reserve ratio.   In order to implement the restoration plan, the FDIC proposes to change both its risk-based assessment system and its base assessment rates.  Either an increase in the Risk Category of our bank subsidiary, or adjustments to the base assessment rates, could materially increase our deposit insurance premiums and assessments.

In addition, under an interim rule, the FDIC imposed a five basis point emergency special assessment on insured depository institutions as of June 30, 2009.  The special assessment was paid on September 30, 2009.  This assessment resulted in a cost of $477,000 and is reflected in our income statement for the nine months ended September 30, 2009.  The interim rule also authorizes the FDIC to impose an additional emergency assessment of up to 10 basis points in respect to deposits for quarters ended after June 30, 2009 if necessary to maintain public confidence in federal deposit insurance.  During the third quarter of 2009, the FDIC proposed an alternative to an additional special assessment.  The alternative is to have all banks prepay three and a quarter years worth of FDIC assessments on December 31, 2009.  The proposed prepayment, which includes assumptions about deposit growth, would be based on average third quarter deposits.  The prepaid amount would be amortized over the prepayment period.  If approved, our estimated prepayment would be approximately $7.8 million.   Given the enacted and proposed increases in assessments  for  insured  financial  institutions  in  2009,  we anticipate  that  FDIC  assessments  on deposits will have a significantly greater impact upon operating expenses for the next few years.

Our efficiency ratio was 72% for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 compared to 67% for the 2008 period.  The increase principally reflects our recent expansion efforts.

ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

Total assets at September 30, 2009 increased by $90.5 million from December 31, 2008. The increase was primarily driven by an increase in loans of $72.2 million and an increase in investment securities of $13.7 million.  The growth in loans and investment securities was funded with deposits, which increased $162.3 million for the period.  The increase in deposits was also used to pay down our short-term borrowings.

Loans

Net loans increased $72.2 million to $971.7 million at September 30, 2009 compared to $899.4 million at December 31, 2008.  Our commercial real estate portfolio increased $60.2 million to $623.5 million at September 30, 2009.  Real estate construction loans decreased due to the economic slow-down while our residential mortgage loan, consumer, home equity and indirect consumer portfolios all increased for the 2009 period. For 2009, we believe the growth in commercial real estate loans may not continue at the rate experienced over the last few years due to the current economic slow-down.  However, we also believe we will be well positioned to benefit from growth in our local markets when the economy rebounds.
 
35

 
   
September 30,
   
December 31,
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
2009
   
2008
 
     
           
Commercial  
  $ 56,546     $ 56,863  
Real estate commercial
    623,473       563,314  
Real estate construction
    12,635       17,387  
Residential mortgage  
    177,898       165,337  
Consumer and home equity
    73,249       69,649  
Indirect consumer  
    37,229       31,754  
Loans held for sale  
    7,729       9,567  
     
    988,759       913,871  
Less:    
               
  Net deferred loan origination fees
    (909 )     (870 )
  Allowance for loan losses
    (16,173 )     (13,565 )
                 
     
    (17,082 )     (14,435 )
     
               
Loans Receivable  
  $ 971,677     $ 899,436  

Allowance and Provision for Loan Losses

Our financial performance depends on the quality of the loans we originate and management’s ability to assess the degree of risk in existing loans when it determines the allowance for loan losses.  An increase in loan charge-offs or non-performing loans or an inadequate allowance for loan losses could reduce net interest income, net income and capital and limit the range of products and services we can offer.

The Allowance for Loan Loss Review Committee evaluates the allowance for loan losses quarterly to maintain a level sufficient to absorb probable incurred credit losses existing in the loan portfolio.  Periodic provisions to the allowance are made as needed.  The Committee determines the allowance by applying loss estimates to graded loans by categories, as described below.  In addition, the Committee analyzes such factors as changes in lending policies and procedures; underwriting standards; collection; charge-off and recovery history; changes in national and local economic business conditions and developments; changes in the characteristics of the portfolio; ability and depth of lending management and staff; changes in the trend of the volume and severity of past due, non-accrual and classified loans; troubled debt restructuring and other loan modifications; and results of regulatory examinations.

2008 was a tumultuous year for the U.S. economy and the financial service industry. Deteriorating property values led to declining valuations for loan portfolios.  The property value declines, which began in the second half of 2007, have continued into 2009.  The markets we serve have generally avoided the severe property value declines experienced in other parts of the country; nonetheless, the impact in our markets was still significant.  In response to these adverse economic conditions, we took the opportunity to strengthen our allowance for loan losses substantially during the second half of 2008 and the first half of 2009.  2009 will continue to be a challenging time for our financial institution as we manage the overall level of our credit quality.
 
 
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The following table analyzes our loan loss experience for the periods indicated.

   
Three Months Ended
   
Nine Months Ended
 
   
September 30,
   
September 30,
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
                         
Balance at beginning of period
  $ 14,236     $ 8,917     $ 13,565     $ 7,922  
Allowance related to acquisition
    -       -       -       327  
Loans charged-off:
                               
Real estate mortgage
    573       -       614       15  
Consumer
    83       137       570       402  
Commercial
    -       54       2,879       349  
Total charge-offs
    656       191       4,063       766  
Recoveries:
                               
Real estate mortgage
    -       2       2       3  
Consumer
    62       60       179       185  
Commercial
    49       -       49       18  
Total recoveries
    111       62       230       206  
                                 
Net loans charged-off
    545       129       3,833       560  
                                 
Provision for loan losses
    2,482       1,720       6,441       2,819  
                                 
Balance at end of period
  $ 16,173     $ 10,508     $ 16,173     $ 10,508  
                                 
Allowance for loan losses to total loans (excluding loans held for sale)
                    1.65 %     1.21 %
Annualized net charge-offs to average loans outstanding
                    0.53 %     0.09 %
Allowance for loan losses to total non-performing loans
                    46 %     85 %

The provision for loan losses increased by $762,000 to $2.5 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2009, and increased by $3.6 million to $6.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 compared to the same periods in 2008.  The increase was related to growth in the loan portfolio, but primarily from the specific reserves set aside for loans classified during 2009.  The higher provision was also due to our increasing the general reserve factors for commercial real estate loans during the period as the level of classified loans has increased sharply.  The allowance for loan losses increased $5.7 million to $16.2 million from September 30, 2008 to September 30, 2009.   The increase was due to an increase in net loans for 2009, as well as the provision recorded to reflect a $35.4 million increase in classified loans for the 2009 period.

Federal regulations require banks to classify their own assets on a regular basis.  The regulations provide for three categories of classified loans — substandard, doubtful and loss.

The following table provides information with respect to classified loans for the periods indicated:

   
September 30,
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
2009
   
2008
 
Classified Loans
           
Substandard
  $ 66,264     $ 32,070  
Doubtful
    1,182       -  
Loss
    93       55  
Total Classified
  $ 67,539     $ 32,125  

 
37

 

As we focused on credit quality during 2008 and the first nine months of 2009, there was a significant migration of loans into the Special Mention and Substandard loan categories.  If economic conditions continue to put stress on our borrowers going forward, this may result in higher provisions for loan losses.  We expect that the economy will remain weak at least for the next several quarters.  Credit quality will continue to be a primary focus in 2009 and going forward.

The $34.2 million increase in substandard assets for 2009 was primarily the result   of downgrading loans with   fourteen borrowers with balances ranging from $928,000 to $6.1 million.   Offsetting this increase was the transfer of a classified loan having a balance of $4.1 million to real estate acquired through foreclosure. Approximately $35.1 million of the total classified loans were related to real estate development or real estate construction loans in our market area.  Classified consumer loans totaled $1.2 million, classified mortgage loans totaled $3.9 million and   classified commercial loans totaled $27.3 million.  For more information on collection efforts, evaluation of collateral and how loss amounts are estimated, see “Non-Performing Assets,” below.

Although we may allocate a portion of the allowance to specific loans or loan categories, the entire allowance is available for active charge-offs.  We develop our allowance estimates based on actual loss experience adjusted for current economic conditions.  Allowance estimates represent a prudent measurement of the risk in the loan portfolio, which we apply to individual loans based on loan type.

Non-Performing Assets

Non-performing assets consist of certain restructured loans for which interest rate or other terms have been renegotiated, loans on which interest is no longer accrued, real estate acquired through foreclosure and repossessed assets.   We do not have any loans longer than 90 days past due still on accrual.  Loans, including impaired loans, are placed on non-accrual status when they become past due 90 days or more as to principal or interest, unless they are adequately secured and in the process of collection.  Loans are considered impaired when we no longer anticipate full principal or interest payments in accordance with the contractual loan terms.  If a loan is impaired, we allocate a portion of the allowance so that the loan is reported, net, at the present value of estimated future cash flows using the loan’s existing rate, or at the fair value of collateral if repayment is expected solely from collateral.

We review our loans on a regular basis and implement normal collection procedures when a borrower fails to make a required payment on a loan.  If the delinquency on a mortgage loan exceeds 90 days and is not cured through normal collection procedures or an acceptable arrangement is not worked out with the borrower, we institute measures to remedy the default, including commencing a foreclosure action.  We generally charge off consumer loans when management deems a loan uncollectible and any available collateral has been liquidated.  We handle commercial business and real estate loan delinquencies on an individual basis with the advice of legal counsel.

We recognize interest income on loans on the accrual basis except for those loans in a non-accrual of income status. We discontinue accruing interest on impaired loans when management believes, after consideration of economic and business conditions and collection efforts that the borrowers’ financial condition is such that collection of interest is doubtful, typically after the loan becomes 90 days delinquent.  When we discontinue interest accrual, we reverse existing accrued interest and subsequently recognize interest income only to the extent we receive cash payments.

We classify real estate acquired as a result of foreclosure or by deed in lieu of foreclosure as real estate owned until such time as it is sold. We classify new and used automobile, motorcycle and all terrain vehicles acquired as a result of foreclosure as repossessed assets until they are sold. When such property is acquired we record it at the lower of the unpaid principal balance of the related loan or its fair market value.  We charge any write-down of the property at the time of acquisition to the allowance for loan losses.  Subsequent gains and losses are included in non-interest income and non-interest expense.

Real estate owned acquired through foreclosure is recorded at lower of cost or fair value less estimated selling costs at the date of foreclosure.  Fair value is based on the appraised market value of the propertybased on sales of similar assets.  The fair value may be subsequently reduced if the estimated fair value declines below the original appraised value. Real estate acquired through foreclosure increased $2.3 million to $8.2 million at September 30, 2009.  The increase was primarily the result of a commercial credit relationship totaling $2.2 million that was transferred during the second quarter of 2009.

 
38

 

The following table provides information with respect to non-performing assets for the periods indicated.

   
September 30 ,
   
December 31,
 
(Dollar in thousands)
 
2009
   
2008
 
             
Restructured
  $ 2,358     $ 1,182  
Past due 90 days still on accrual
    -       -  
Loans on non-accrual status
    32,431       15,587  
                 
Total non-performing loans
    34,789       16,769  
Real estate acquired through foreclosure
    8,184       5,925  
Other repossessed assets
    40       91  
Total non-performing assets
  $ 43,013     $ 22,785  
                 
Interest income that would have been earned on non-performing loans
  $ 2,053     $ 825  
Interest income recognized on non-performing loans
    105       75  
Ratios:   Non-performing loans to total loans (excluding loans held for sale)
    3.55 %     1.86 %
Non-performing assets to total loans (excluding loans held for sale)
    4.39 %     2.52 %

Non-performing loans increased $18.0 million to $34.8 million at September 30, 2009 compared to $16.8 million at December 31, 2008.  The increase in non-accrual loans consist primarily of eight credit relationships with balances ranging from $640,000 to $5.3 million. Offsetting this increase was the transfer of a non-accrual loan having a balance of $4.1 million to real estate acquired through foreclosure. These credit relationships are secured by real estate and we have provided adequate allowance based on current information.  All non-performing loans are considered impaired.

Non-performing assets for the 2009 period include $2.4 million in restructured commercial, mortgage and consumer loans.  Restructured loans primarily consist of four credit relationships with balances ranging from $116,000 to $1.6 million.  The terms of these loans have been renegotiated to reduce the rate of interest and extend the term, thus reducing the amount of cash flow required from the borrower to service the loans. The borrowers are currently meeting the terms of the restructured loans.

Investment Securities

Interest on securities provides us our largest source of interest income after interest on loans, constituting 3.0% of the total interest income for the nine months ended September 30, 2009.  The securities portfolio serves as a source of liquidity and earnings and contributes to the management of interest rate risk.  We have the authority to invest in various types of liquid assets, including short-term United States Treasury obligations and securities of various federal agencies, obligations of states and political subdivisions, corporate bonds, certificates of deposit at insured savings and loans and banks, bankers' acceptances, and federal funds.  We may also invest a portion of our assets in certain commercial paper and corporate debt securities.  We are also authorized to invest in mutual funds and stocks whose assets conform to the investments that we are authorized to make directly. The available-for-sale investment portfolio increased by $19.4 million due to the purchase of a U.S. Government agency security and five state and municipal obligations. The held-to-maturity investment portfolio decreased by $5.7 million as securities were called for redemption in accordance with their terms due to decreasing rates.

We review all unrealized losses at least on a quarterly basis to determine whether the losses are other than temporary and more frequently when economic or market concerns warrant. We consider the length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been less than cost, the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer, and whether management has the intent to sell the debt security or whether it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the debt security before its anticipated recovery.  In analyzing an issuer’s financial condition, we may consider whether the securities are issued by the federal government or its agencies, whether downgrades by bond rating agencies have occurred, and the results of reviews of the issuer’s financial condition.  The unrealized losses on the state and municipal securities were caused primarily by interest rate decreases.  The contractual terms of those investments do not permit the issuer to settle the securities at a price less than the amortized cost of the investment.  Because we do not have the intent to sell these securities and it is likely that we will not be required to sell the securities before their anticipated recovery, we do not consider these investments to be other-than-temporarily impaired at September 30, 2009.  We also considered the financial condition and near term prospects of the issuer and identified no matters that would indicate less than full recovery.

 
39

 

We have evaluated the decline in the fair value of our trust preferred securities, which are directly related to the credit and liquidity crisis being experienced in the financial services industry over the past year.   The trust preferred securities market is currently inactive making the valuation of trust preferred securities very difficult.  The trust preferred securities are valued by management using unobservable inputs through a discounted cash flow analysis as permitted under current accounting guidance and using the expected cash flows appropriately discounted using present value techniques.   Refer to Note 6 – Fair Value for more information.

We recognized other-than-temporary impairment charges of $703,000 for the expected credit loss during the 2009 period on five of our trust preferred securities with an original cost basis of $3.0 million.  All of our trust preferred securities are below investment grade but have continued to pay interest as scheduled through September 30, 2009, and are expected to continue paying interest as scheduled.    See Note 2 – Securities for more information.  Management will continue to evaluate these securities for impairment quarterly.  

As discussed in Note 1, in early April 2009, the FASB issued FASB ASC 320-10-65, Recognition and Presentation of Other-Than-Temporary Impairments . Among other provisions, the guidance requires entities to split other than temporarily impaired charges between credit losses (i.e., the loss based on the entity’s estimate of the decrease in cash flows, including those that result from expected voluntary prepayments), which are charged to earnings, and the remainder of the impairment charge (non-credit component) to accumulated other comprehensive income. This requirement pertains to both securities held to maturity and securities available for sale. The guidance is effective for interim and annual reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009 with early adoption permitted for periods ending after March 15, 2009. We incorporated this guidance in our review of impairment as of March 31, 2009.

Deposits

We rely primarily on providing excellent customer service and long-standing relationships with customers to attract and retain deposits. Market interest rates and rates on deposit products offered by competing financial institutions can significantly affect our ability to attract and retain deposits.  In conjunction with our initiatives to expand and enhance our retail branch network, we emphasize growing our customer checking account base to better enhance profitability and franchise value.  Total deposits increased by $162.3 million year to date compared to December 31, 2008. Retail and commercial deposits increased $62.9 million, public funds increased $15.9 million and we added $83.5 in brokered certificates.   Brokered deposits were $98.9 million at September 30, 2009 compared to $15.4 million at December 31, 2008.

The following table breaks down our deposits.

   
September 30,
   
December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
   
(In Thousands)
 
             
Non-interest bearing
  $ 59,499     $ 55,668  
NOW demand
    110,456       99,890  
Savings
    133,987       111,310  
Money market
    83,365       40,593  
Certificates of deposit
    550,411       467,938  
    $ 937,718     $ 775,399  

Short-Term Borrowings

We have the ability to obtain short-term borrowings, consisting of federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase.  We had short-term borrowings of $2.2 million and $65.3 million from the FHLB of Cincinnati at September 30, 2009 and 2008.  These borrowings averaged a rate of 0.23% and 2.59% for 2009 and 2008.

 
40

 

Advances from Federal Home Loan Bank

Deposits are the primary source of funds for our lending and investment activities and for our general business purposes.  We can also use advances (borrowings) from the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) of Cincinnati to compensate for reductions in deposits or deposit inflows at less than projected levels.  Advances from the FHLB are secured by our stock in the FHLB, certain securities, certain commercial real estate loans and substantially all of our first mortgage, multi-family and open end home equity loans.  At September 30, 2009 we had $52.8 million in advances outstanding from the FHLB, and the capacity to increase our borrowings an additional $69.3 million.

Subordinated Debentures

In 2008, First Federal Statutory Trust III, an unconsolidated trust subsidiary of First Financial Service Corporation, issued $8.0 million in trust preferred securities.  The trust loaned the proceeds of the offering to us in exchange for junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures which we used to finance the purchase of FSB Bancshares, Inc. The subordinated debentures, which mature on June 24, 2038, can be called at par in whole or in part on or after June 24, 2018. The subordinated debentures pay a fixed rate of 8% for thirty years.  We have the option to defer interest payments on the subordinated debt from time to time for a period not to exceed five consecutive years.  The subordinated debentures are considered as Tier I capital for the Corporation under current regulatory guidelines.

A different trust subsidiary issued 30 year cumulative trust preferred securities at a 10 year fixed rate of 6.69% adjusting quarterly thereafter at LIBOR plus 160 basis points.  The subordinated debentures, which mature March 22, 2037, can be called at par in whole or in part on or after March 15, 2017.  We have the option to defer interest payments on the subordinated debt from time to time for a period not to exceed five consecutive years. The subordinated debentures are considered as Tier I capital for the Corporation under current regulatory guidelines.

Our trust subsidiaries loaned the proceeds of their offerings of trust preferred securities to us in exchange for junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures. In accordance with current accounting guidance, these trusts are not consolidated with our financial statements but rather the subordinated debentures are shown as a liability.

LIQUIDITY

Liquidity risk arises from the possibility we may not be able to satisfy current or future financial commitments, or may become unduly reliant on alternative funding sources. The objective of liquidity risk management is to ensure that we can meet the cash flow requirements of depositors and borrowers, as well as our operating cash needs, at a reasonable cost, taking into account all on- and off-balance sheet funding demands. We maintain an investment and funds management policy, which identifies the primary sources of liquidity, establishes procedures for monitoring and measuring liquidity, and establishes minimum liquidity requirements in compliance with regulatory guidance. The Asset Liability Committee continually monitors our liquidity position.

Our sources of funds include the sale of securities in the available-for-sale portion of the investment portfolio, the payment of principal on loans and mortgage-backed securities, proceeds realized from loans held for sale, brokered deposits and other wholesale funding.  We also secured federal funds borrowing lines from three of our correspondent banks.  Two of the lines are for $15 million each and the other one is for $5 million.  Our banking centers also provide access to retail deposit markets.  If large certificate depositors shift to our competitors or other markets in response to interest rate changes, we have the ability to replenish those deposits through alternative funding sources.  Traditionally, we have also borrowed from the FHLB to supplement our funding requirements.  At September 30, 2009, we had sufficient collateral available to borrow, approximately, an additional $69.3 million in advances from the FHLB.   We believe we have the ability to raise deposits, when needed, by offering rates at or slightly above market rates.

At the holding company level, the Corporation uses cash to pay dividends to stockholders, repurchase common stock, make selected investments and acquisitions, and service debt. The main sources of funding for the Corporation include dividends from the Bank, borrowings and access to the capital markets.  Also, the Corporation maintains two lines of credit totaling $18 million with a correspondent bank.  The Corporation borrowed $1.5 million against on of these lines of credit to pay its second quarter cash dividend.  Subsequent to September 30, 2009, the Corporation's total borrowing capacity was reduced from $18 million to $1.5 million.  We also reduced the number of lines from two to one.  The new line will have a maturity date of January 31, 2010.

 
41

 

The primary source of funding for the Corporation has been dividends and returns of investment from the Bank. Kentucky banking laws limit the amount of dividends that may be paid to the Corporation by the Bank without prior approval of the KOFI.  Under these laws, the amount of dividends that may be paid in any calendar year is limited to current year’s net income, as defined in the laws, combined with the retained net income of the preceding two years, less any dividends declared during those periods.   As a result of a $6 million dividend in 2008 used to finance the purchase of FSB Bancshares, Inc., the Bank needed and obtained partial approval for its third quarter 2009 dividend. We currently have a regulatory agreement with the FDIC that requires us to obtain the consent of the Regional Director of the FDIC and the Commissioner of the KOFI to declare and pay cash dividends.  Because of these limitations, consolidated cash flows as presented in the consolidated statements of cash flows may not represent cash immediately available to the Corporation.  During 2009, the Bank declared and paid dividends of $2.5 million to the Corporation.

CAPITAL

Stockholders’ equity increased $21.2 million for the period ended September 30, 2009 compared to December 31, 2008 primarily due to the sale of $20 million of preferred stock to the U.S. Treasury Department under the Capital Purchase Program.  Average stockholders’ equity to average assets ratio increased to 8.65% for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 compared to 8.21% for 2008.

On January 9, 2009, we sold $20 million of cumulative perpetual preferred shares, with a liquidation preference of $1,000 per share (the “Senior Preferred Shares”) to the U.S. Treasury under the terms of its Capital Purchase Plan.  Under CPP, the U.S. Treasury may purchase up to $250 billion of senior preferred shares on standardized terms from qualifying financial institutions as part of the Troubled Asset Relief Program authorized by the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008.  The Senior Preferred Shares constitute Tier 1 capital and rank senior to our common shares.  The Senior Preferred Shares pay cumulative dividends at a rate of 5% per year for the first five years and will reset to a rate of 9% per year after five years. The Senior Preferred Shares may be redeemed at any time, at our option.

Under the terms of our CPP stock purchase agreement, we also issued the U.S. Treasury a warrant to purchase an amount of our common stock equal to 15% of the aggregate amount of the Senior Preferred Shares, or $3 million.  The warrant entitles the U.S. Treasury to purchase 215,983 common shares at a purchase price of $13.89 per share.  The initial exercise price for the warrant and the number of shares subject to the warrant were determined by reference to the market price of our common stock calculated on a 20-day trailing average as of December 8, 2008, the date the U.S. Treasury approved our application.  The warrant has a term of 10 years and is potentially dilutive to earnings per share.

During the first nine months of 2009, we did not purchase any shares of our own common stock.   However, the terms of our Senior Preferred Shares do not allow us to repurchase shares of our common stock without the consent of the U.S. Treasury until the Senior Preferred Shares are redeemed.

Each of the federal bank regulatory agencies has established minimum leverage capital requirements for banks. Banks must maintain a minimum ratio of Tier 1 capital to adjusted average quarterly assets ranging from 3% to 5%, subject to federal bank regulatory evaluation of an organization’s overall safety and soundness.  We intend to maintain a capital position that meets or exceeds the “well capitalized” requirements established for banks by the FDIC.  We currently have a regulatory agreement with the FDIC that requires us to maintain a Tier 1 capital ratio of 8%.  We are currently in compliance with the Tier 1 capital requirement.  The following table shows the ratios of Tier 1 capital and total capital to risk-adjusted assets and the leverage ratios for the Corporation and the Bank as of September 30, 2009.

 
42

 


                           
To Be Considered
 
                           
Well Capitalized
 
                           
Under Prompt
 
(Dollars in thousands)
             
For Capital
   
Correction
 
   
Actual
   
Adequacy
   
Purposes
   
Action
   
Provisions
 
As of September 30, 2009:
 
Amount
   
Ratio
   
Amount
   
Ratio
   
Amount
   
Ratio
 
Total risk-based capital (to risk- weighted assets)
                                   
Consolidated
  $ 112,144       11.45 %   $ 78,328       8.00 %     N/A       N/A  
Bank
    111,062       11.36       78,236       8.00       97,794       10.00  
Tier I capital (to risk-weighted assets)
                                               
Consolidated
    99,853       10.20       39,164       4.00       N/A       N/A  
Bank
    98,785       10.10 %     39,118       4.00       58,677       6.00  
Tier I capital (to average assets)
                                               
Consolidated
    99,853       9.16       43,627       4.00       N/A       N/A  
Bank
    98,785       9.05       43,657       4.00       54,572       5.00  

                           
To Be Considered
 
                           
Well Capitalized
 
                           
Under Prompt
 
(Dollars in thousands)
             
For Capital
   
Correction
 
   
Actual
   
Adequacy
   
Purposes
   
Action
   
Provisions
 
As of December 31, 2008:
 
Amount
   
Ratio
   
Amount
   
Ratio
   
Amount
   
Ratio
 
Total risk-based capital (to risk- weighted assets)
                                   
Consolidated
  $ 90,890       10.14 %   $ 71,717       8.00 %     N/A       N/A  
Bank
    89,224       9.97       71,625       8.00       89,531       10.00  
Tier I capital (to risk-weighted assets)
                                               
Consolidated
    79,655       8.89       35,859       4.00       N/A       N/A  
Bank
    78,029       8.72       35,812       4.00       53,719       6.00  
Tier I capital (to average assets)
                                               
Consolidated
    79,655       8.09       39,367       4.00       N/A       N/A  
Bank
    78,029       8.10       38,546       4.00       48,182       5.00  

Item 3.  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Asset/Liability Management and Market Risk

To minimize the volatility of net interest income and exposure to economic loss that may result from fluctuating interest rates, we manage our exposure to adverse changes in interest rates through asset and liability management activities within guidelines established by our Asset Liability Committee (“ALCO”).  The ALCO, comprised of senior management representatives, has the responsibility for approving and ensuring compliance with asset/liability management policies.  Interest rate risk is the exposure to adverse changes in the net interest income as a result of market fluctuations in interest rates.  The ALCO, on an ongoing basis, monitors interest rate and liquidity risk in order to implement appropriate funding and balance sheet strategies.  Management considers interest rate risk to be our most significant market risk.

We utilize an earnings simulation model to analyze net interest income sensitivity.  We then evaluate potential changes in market interest rates and their subsequent effects on net interest income.  The model projects the effect of instantaneous movements in interest rates of both 100 and 200 basis points.  We also incorporate assumptions based on the historical behavior of our deposit rates and balances in relation to changes in interest rates into the model.  These assumptions are inherently uncertain and, as a result, the model cannot precisely measure future net interest income or precisely predict the impact of fluctuations in market interest rates on net interest income.  Actual results will differ from the model’s simulated results due to timing, magnitude and frequency of interest rate changes as well as changes in market conditions and the application and timing of various management strategies.

 
43

 

Our interest sensitivity profile was asset sensitive at September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008.  Given a 100 basis point decrease in rates sustained for one year, our base net interest income would decrease by an estimated   1.54% at September 30, 2009 compared to a decrease of 2.67% at December 31, 2008.   Given a 100 basis point increase in interest rates sustained for one year, our base net interest income would increase by an   estimated 5.83% at September 30, 2009 compared to an increase of 1.49% at December 31, 2008.

Our interest sensitivity at any point in time will be affected by a number of factors.  These factors include the mix of interest sensitive assets and liabilities, their relative pricing schedules, market interest rates, deposit growth, loan growth, decay rates and prepayment speed assumptions.

We use various asset/liability strategies to manage the re-pricing characteristics of our assets and liabilities designed to ensure that exposure to interest rate fluctuations is limited within our guidelines of acceptable levels of risk-taking.  As demonstrated by the September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008 sensitivity tables, our balance sheet has an asset sensitive position. This means that our earning assets, which consist of loans and investment securities, will change in price at a faster rate than our deposits and borrowings.  Therefore, if short term interest rates increase, our net interest income will increase.  Likewise, if short term interest rates decrease, our net interest income will decrease.

Our sensitivity to interest rate changes is presented based on data as of September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008 annualized to a one year period.

   
September 30, 2009
 
   
Decrease in Rates
         
Increase in Rates
 
   
200
   
100
         
100
   
200
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Basis Points
   
Basis Points
   
Base
   
Basis Points
   
Basis Points
 
                                       
Projected interest income
                                     
Loans
  $ 55,321     $ 56,722     $ 58,269     $ 59,810     $ 61,437  
Investments
    1,862       1,896       1,439       1,813       1,877  
Total interest income
    57,183       58,618       59,708       61,623       63,314  
                                         
Projected interest expense
                                       
Deposits
    16,701       16,737       17,244       16,797       18,722  
Borrowed funds
    3,654       3,654       3,639       3,737       3,824  
Total interest expense
    20,355       20,391       20,883       20,534       22,546  
                                         
Net interest income
  $ 36,828     $ 38,228     $ 38,825     $ 41,089     $ 40,768  
Change from base
  $ (1,997 )   $ (597 )           $ 2,264     $ 1,943  
% Change from base
    (5.14 )%     (1.54 )%             5.83 %     5.00

   
December 31, 2008
 
   
Decrease in Rates
         
Increase in Rates
 
   
200
   
100
         
100
   
200
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Basis Points
   
Basis Points
   
Base
   
Basis Points
   
Basis Points
 
                                       
Projected interest income
                                     
Loans
  $ 50,663     $ 52,195     $ 53,664     $ 55,105     $ 56,577  
Investments
    966       985       1,002       1,033       1,063  
Total interest income
    51,629       53,180       54,666       56,138       57,640  
                                         
Projected interest expense
                                       
Deposits
    15,815       16,026       16,419       16,984       17,523  
Borrowed funds
    3,559       3,570       3,743       4,135       4,525  
Total interest expense
    19,374       19,596       20,162       21,119       22,048  
                                         
Net interest income
  $ 32,255     $ 33,584     $ 34,504     $ 35,019     $ 35,592  
Change from base
  $ (2,249 )   $ (920 )           $ 515     $ 1,088  
% Change from base
    (6.52 )%     (2.67 )%             1.49 %     3.15 %

 
44

 

Item 4.  CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining effective disclosure controls and procedures, as defined under Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. As of September 30, 2009, an evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based on that evaluation, management concluded that disclosure controls and procedures as of September 30, 2009 were effective in ensuring material information required to be disclosed in this Form 10-Q was recorded, processed, summarized, and reported in a timely manner as specified in SEC rules and forms.

There were no significant changes in our internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect these controls after the date of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officers evaluation, nor were there any significant deficiencies or material weaknesses in the controls which required corrective action.

Part II - OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. 
Legal Proceedings

Although, from time to time, we are involved in various legal proceedings in the normal course of business, there are no material pending legal proceedings to which we are a party, or to which any of our property is subject.

Item 1A. 
Risk Factors

We did not have any changes to our risk factors previously disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008.

Item 2. 
Unregistered Sales of Securities and Use of Proceeds

We did not repurchase any shares of our common stock during the quarter ended September 30, 2009.

Item 3. 
Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Not Applicable

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

Not Applicable

Item 5. 
Other Information
 
None

Item 6. 
Exhibits:

31.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of Sarbanes-   Oxley Act

31.2
Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of Sarbanes-   Oxley Act

32
Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 (As Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002)

 
45

 

FIRST FINANCIAL SERVICE CORPORATION

SIGNATURES

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

Date:  November 9, 2009
By:
/s/ B. Keith Johnson
 
   
     B. Keith Johnson
   
     Chief Executive Officer
       
Date:  November 9, 2009
By:
/s/ Steven M. Zagar
 
   
     Steven M. Zagar
   
     Chief Financial Officer &
   
     Principal Accounting Officer

 
46

 

INDEX TO EXHIBITS

Exhibit No.
 
Description
     
31.1
 
Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act
     
31.2
 
Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act
     
32
 
Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 (As Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002)

 
47

 
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