U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C.  20549

FORM 10-Q
 
[X]
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (d) OF THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2010

[   ]
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from                  to                  .

Commission file number:  000-14209

FIRSTBANK CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
 
Michigan   38-2633910
(State of Incorporation)
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
     
311 Woodworth Avenue
   
Alma, Michigan   48801
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)
 
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:  (989) 463-3131

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the 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 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 the definitions of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer”, and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer ___   Accelerated filer             Non-accelerated filer ­­­___   Smaller reporting company    X   

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).     Yes            No    X   
 
Common stock outstanding at October 31, 2010:  7,791,379 shares.
 
 
 

 

INDEX
 
PART I.
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
     
Item 1.
Financial Statements (UNAUDITED)
Page   3
     
Item 2.
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Page  13
     
Item 3.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
Page  18
     
Item 4.
Controls and Procedures
Page  19
     
     
PART II.
OTHER INFORMATION
 
     
Item 4.
[removed and reserved]
 
     
Item 5.
Other Information
Page  19
     
Item 6.
Exhibits
Page  19
     
     
SIGNATURES
Page  20
     
     
EXHIBIT INDEX
Page  21
 
 
2

 
 
Item 1:  Financial Statements (UNAUDITED)

FIRSTBANK CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
AS OF SEPTEMBER 30, 2010 AND DECEMBER 31, 2009
(Dollars in thousands)
UNAUDITED
 
    September 30,     December 31,  
    2010     2009  
ASSETS
           
Cash and due from banks
  $ 25,791     $ 27,254  
Short term investments
    68,657       80,111  
    Total Cash and cash equivalents
    94,448       107,365  
                 
FDIC insured banktime certificates of deposit
    10,419       10,250  
Trading account securities
    23       2,828  
Securities available for sale
    232,529       146,680  
Federal Home Loan Bank stock
    9,084       9,084  
Loans held for sale
    1,932       578  
Loans, net of allowance for loan losses of $20,725 at September 30, 2010
               
   and $19,114 at December 31, 2009
    1,031,120       1,102,493  
Premises and equipment, net
    24,846       25,437  
Acquisition goodwill
    35,513       35,513  
Other intangibles
    2,329       2,940  
Other Real Estate Owned
    9,020       7,425  
Accrued interest receivable and other assets
    26,577       31,763  
                 
TOTAL ASSETS
  $ 1,477,840     $ 1,482,356  
                 
                 
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
               
LIABILITIES
               
   Deposits:
               
      Non-interest bearing accounts
  $ 172,416     $ 164,333  
      Interest bearing accounts:
               
Demand
    284,520       255,414  
Savings
    202,816       174,114  
Time
    512,499       555,202  
             Total Deposits
    1,172,251       1,149,063  
                 
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase and overnight borrowings
    39,617       39,409  
Federal Home Loan Bank advances
    72,100       100,263  
Subordinated Debentures
    36,084       36,084  
Accrued interest and other liabilities
    8,173       10,657  
    Total Liabilities
    1,328,225       1,335,476  
                 
                 
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
               
Preferred stock; no par value, 300,000 shares authorized, 33,000 issued
    32,756       32,734  
Common stock; 20,000,000 shares authorized, 7,786,405 shares issued
               
    and outstanding ( 7,730,241 at December 31, 2009 )
    115,132       114,773  
Accumulated deficit
    (57 )     (1,225 )
Accumulated other comprehensive income
    1,784       598  
    Total Shareholders’ Equity
    149,615       146,880  
                 
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
  $ 1,477,840     $ 1,482,356  

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

 
3

 

FIRSTBANK CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
SEPTEMBER 30, 2010 AND 2009
(Dollars in thousands except per share data)
UNAUDITED
 
    Three Months Ended September 30,  
    2010     2009  
Interest Income:
           
   Interest and fees on loans
  $ 16,869     $ 17,748  
   Securities
               
Taxable
    1,032       651  
Exempt from Federal Income Tax
    268       320  
   Short term investments
    52       44  
Total Interest Income
    18,221       18,763  
Interest Expense:
               
   Deposits
    3,871       4,454  
   FHLB advances and other
    871       1,322  
   Subordinated Debt
    383       391  
        Total Interest Expense
    5,125       6,167  
        Net Interest Income
    13,096       12,596  
   Provision for loan losses
    3,066       2,821  
   Net Interest Income after provision for loan losses
    10,030       9,775  
Non-interest Income:
               
   Gain on sale of mortgage loans
    2,054       1,104  
   Service charges on deposit accounts
    1,144       1,140  
   Gain/(loss) on trading account securities
    (10 )     (57 )
   Gain/(loss) on securities, including other than temporary impairment
    1       (2 )
   Mortgage servicing, net of amortization
    (98 )     25  
   Other
    192       765  
        Total Non-interest Income
    3,283       2,975  
Non-interest Expense:
               
   Salaries and employee benefits
    5,186       5,641  
   Occupancy and equipment
    1,361       1,510  
   Amortization of intangibles
    191       228  
   FDIC insurance premium
    525       448  
   Other
    3,678       3,403  
        Total Non-interest Expense
    10,941       11,230  
                 
Income before federal income taxes
    2,372       1,520  
Federal income taxes
    1,048       303  
NET INCOME
  $ 1,324     $ 1,217  
                 
Preferred stock dividends and accretion of discount on preferred stock
    413       413  
NET INCOME AVAILABLE TO COMMON SHAREHOLDERS
  $ 911     $ 804  
                 
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
               
    Net Income
  $ 1,324     $ 1,217  
    Change in unrealized gain on securities, net of tax and reclassification effects
    469       916  
    TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
  $ 1,793     $ 2,133  
                 
   Basic Earnings Per Share
  $ 0.12     $ 0.10  
   Diluted Earnings Per Share
  $ 0.12     $ 0.10  
                 
   Dividends Per Share
  $ 0.01     $ 0.10  

See notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
 
4

 

FIRSTBANK CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
SEPTEMBER 30, 2010 AND 2009
(Dollars in thousands except per share data)
UNAUDITED
 
    Nine Months Ended September 30,  
    2010     2009  
Interest Income:
           
Interest and fees on loans
  $ 50,883     $ 52,876  
Securities
               
Taxable
    2,658       2,045  
Exempt from Federal Income Tax
    849       973  
Short term investments
    155       97  
Total Interest Income
    54,545       55,991  
Interest Expense:
               
Deposits
    12,347       14,441  
FHLB advances and other
    2,990       4,262  
Subordinated Debt
    1,120       1,235  
Total Interest Expense
    16,457       19,938  
Net Interest Income
    38,088       36,053  
Provision for loan losses
    8,623       9,685  
Net Interest Income after provision for loan losses
    29,465       26,368  
Non-interest Income:
               
Gain on sale of mortgage loans
    3,150       6,586  
Service charges on deposit accounts
    3,421       3,345  
Gain/(loss) on trading account securities
    13       (170 )
Gain/(loss) on securities, including other than temporary impairment
    10       298  
Mortgage servicing, net of amortization
    91       (518 )
Other
    1,227       1,759  
Total Non-interest Income
    7,912       11,300  
Non-interest Expense:
               
Salaries and employee benefits
    15,895       16,822  
Occupancy and equipment
    4,220       4,766  
Amortization of intangibles
    611       718  
FDIC insurance premium
    1,555       1,974  
Other
    10,806       10,177  
Total Non-interest Expense
    33,087       34,497  
                 
Income before federal income taxes
    4,290       3,271  
Federal income taxes
    1,370       479  
NET INCOME
  $ 2,920     $ 2,792  
                 
Preferred stock dividends and accretion of discount on preferred stock
    1,238       1,101  
NET INCOME AVAILABLE TO COMMON SHAREHOLDERS
  $ 1,682     $ 1,691  
                 
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
               
Net Income
  $ 2,920     $ 2,792  
Change in unrealized gain on securities, net of tax and reclassification effects
    1,186       951  
TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
  $ 4,106     $ 3,743  
                 
Basic Earnings Per Share
  $ 0.22     $ 0.22  
Diluted Earnings Per Share
  $ 0.22     $ 0.22  
                 
Dividends Per Share
  $ 0.07     $ 0.30  

See notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
 
5

 

FIRSTBANK CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOW
FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED
SEPTEMBER 30, 2010 AND 2009
(Dollars in thousands)
UNAUDITED

   
Nine months ended September 30,
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
           
   Net income
  $ 2,920     $ 2,792  
   Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
               
   Provision for loan losses
    8,623       9,685  
   Depreciation of premises and equipment
    1,723       2,045  
   Net amortization of security premiums/discounts
    1,351       648  
   Loss/(Gain) on trading account securities
    (13 )     170  
   Loss/(Gain) on securities transactions
    (10 )     (298 )
   Amortization and impairment of  intangibles
    611       717  
   Stock option and stock grant compensation expense
    82       121  
   Gain on sale of mortgage loans
    (3,150 )     (6,586 )
   Proceeds from sales of mortgage loans
    100,270       293,815  
   Loans originated for sale
    (98,474 )     (288,448 )
   Deferred federal income tax expense/(benefit)
    1,337       (749 )
   (Increase)/decrease in accrued interest receivable and other assets
    9,227       (995 )
   Increase/(decrease) in accrued interest payable and other liabilities
    (2,484 )     1,505  
             NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES
    22,013       14,422  
                 
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
               
   Proceeds from sale of securities available for sale
    7,425       4,053  
   Proceeds from maturities and calls of securities available for sale
    87,403       68,144  
   Purchases of securities available for sale
    (177,572 )     (106.811 )
   Proceeds from sale of fixed assets
    1,033       267  
   Net (increase)/decrease in portfolio loans
    55,166       18,011  
   Net purchases of premises and equipment
    (2,165 )     (1,076 )
            NET CASH USED IN INVESTING ACTIVITIES
    (28,710 )     (17,412 )
                 
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
               
   Net increase/(decrease) in deposits
    23,188       26,766  
   Increase/(decrease) in securities sold under agreements to repurchase and  other
               
      short term borrowings
    208       (8,003 )
   Repayment of notes payable and other borrowings
    0       (6,353 )
   Repayment of Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings
    (37,163 )     (102,618 )
   Proceeds from Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings
    9,000       59,000  
   Cash proceeds from issuance of preferred stock and warrants
    0       33,000  
   Cash proceeds from issuance of common stock, net
    326       700  
   Cash dividends-preferred stock
    (1,238 )     (1,101 )
   Cash dividends-common stock
    (541 )     ( 2,291  
            NET CASH USED IN FINANCING ACTIVITIES
    (6,220 )     (898 )
                 
INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
    (12,917 )     3,888  
   Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
    107,365       63,712  
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD
  $ 94,448     $ 59,824  
                 
Supplemental Disclosure
               
   Interest Paid
  $ 16,770     $ 20,614  
   Income Taxes Paid
  $ 855     $ 1,415  
   Non cash transfers of loans to Other Real Estate Owned
  $ 8,137     $ 8,009  

See notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
 
6

 
 
FIRSTBANK CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
SEPTEMBER 30, 2010
UNAUDITED

NOTE 1- FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The accompanying unaudited financial information presented is for Firstbank Corporation (“Corporation”) and its wholly owned subsidiaries:  Firstbank - Alma, Firstbank (Mt. Pleasant), Firstbank - West Branch (including its wholly owned subsidiaries; 1 st Armored, Inc. (sold on March 31, 2010), 1 st Title, Inc., and its holdings in 1 st Investors Title, LLC), Firstbank - St. Johns, Keystone Community Bank, Firstbank – West Michigan and its wholly owned subsidiary Accord Financial Services, Inc., collectively the “Banks”, FBMI Risk Management Services, Inc., a company that provides insurance coverage to only affiliates of Firstbank Corporation, and Austin Mortgage Company, a company that holds certain performing and non-performing residential mortgage loans originated prior to the acquisition of ICNB Financial Corporation, and beginning in the second quarter of 2009 certain non-performing loans transferred from affiliate banks. All of the subsidiaries listed above are fully owned except 1st Investors Title, LLC, which was 52% owned by us through September 30, 2009 at which time we sold 3% of the company. The results of 1 st Investors Title, LLC are consolidated into our results through September 30, 2009, the date of the sale. We now have a 49% ownership in 1st Investors Title, LLC and no longer consolidate their results into the results of the Company in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America 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 ended September 30, 2010, are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2010. The balance sheet at December 31, 2009, has been derived from the audited financial statements at that date. 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 year ended December 31, 2009.

Effect of Newly Issued but not yet Effective Accounting Standards

In July 2010, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued a statement which expands disclosures about credit quality of financing receivables and allowance for credit losses. The new standard will require expanded disclosures about the credit quality of our loans and the related reserves against them. The additional disclosures will include details on our past due loans, credit quality indicators, and modifications of loans. We anticipate adopting the new standard beginning with our December 31, 2010 financial statements.

NOTE 2 – GOODWILL

Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill are as follows:
 
   
(In Thousands of Dollars)
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
Balance at January 1
  $ 35,513     $ 35,603  
Write down of goodwill from branch sale
    0       (90 )
Balance at September 30
  $ 35,513     $ 35,513  

The $90,000 write down of goodwill in 2009 relates to the sale of our Auburn branch. The sale transaction in its entirety resulted in a modest gain on sale over and above the amount of the goodwill write-off.

During the third quarter, Firstbank Corporation retained Austin Associates, LLC (“Austin”) to perform a goodwill impairment analysis. The valuation date was July 31, 2010. The steps that Austin utilized in a Step 1 valuation test included the reporting unit and the appropriate standard and level of value, the calculation of fair value and the comparison of fair value to carrying value. Austin determined that Firstbank Corporation was the relevant reporting unit to be valued. The standard of value used in the valuation was fair value.  Austin’s interpretation of this definition is that it is the value of ownership of the specific business with consideration of synergies, efficiencies and other value enhancing factors. The appropriate level of value used was controlling interest level. This is consistent with allowing for synergies and other factors as described previously and also considers premiums where appropriate. The appraisal methodology utilized by Austin includes the following valuation approaches:
 
 
7

 

 
A.
Income Approach: Under this approach, a discounted cash flow value is calculated based on earnings capacity.
 
B.
Asset Approach: This approach is based on the difference between the estimated market value of assets and liabilities.
 
C.
Market Approach: This analysis is based on price-to-earnings multiples, price-to-tangible-book ratios and core deposit premiums for selected bank sale transactions.

Austin used the individual valuation results to calculate their estimate of the fair value of common equity. This figure was then compared to the carrying value of equity to determine whether the Step 1 test had passed or failed. In its findings, Austin Associates determined that the fair value of Firstbank’s common equity was $100.0 million, below its carrying value of $114.5 million on the testing date. As required by generally accepted accounting principles, since the Step 1 test did not pass, it was necessary to complete a Step 2 test.

In the Step 2 test, Austin determines the implied value of goodwill compared with Firstbank’s carrying value of goodwill. In the Step 2 test, if the implied amount of goodwill exceeds the carrying amount, then no goodwill impairment charge is required. To determine the implied value of goodwill, Austin estimated the fair value of Firstbank’s identifiable assets less liabilities. The difference is the net identifiable assets of the company.

Austin used a variety of methods to determine the fair value of Firstbank’s assets and liabilities, including: recent transactions data, discounted cash flows, and market price indications. Assets reviewed consisted of: loans, investments, and other real estate owned, while liabilities reviewed included: deposits and borrowed funds. After completing this re-valuation exercise, the fair value of Firstbank’s common equity determined in Step 1 above, was subtracted from the estimated net identifiable assets to determine the implied fair value of goodwill. Based on the analysis, Austin concluded that the implied fair value of goodwill exceeded the carrying value; therefore, no goodwill impairment charge was required at this time. Whole bank sale transactions at a premium to tangible book value in the market place play an important role in the determination of fair value of the company. Changes in the pricing of future whole bank sales could negatively affect future valuation and result in goodwill impairment at a future date.

NOTE 3- NONPERFORMING LOANS AND ASSETS

Nonperforming Loans and Assets

The following table summarizes nonaccrual and past due loans at the dates indicated:
 
(Dollars in thousands)
           
   
September 30,
   
December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
Nonperforming loans:
 
 
       
     Nonaccrual loans
  $ 28,511     $ 30,677  
     Loans 90 days or more past due and still accruing
    5,009       3,221  
     Restructured loans
    1,786       7,106  
          Total nonperforming loans
  $ 35,306     $ 41,004  
                 
Other Real Estate
  $ 9,020     $ 7,425  
                 
Nonperforming loans as a percent of total loans*
    3.36 %     3.66 %
Nonperforming loans plus Other Real Estate as a percent of total loans* plus  Other Real Estate
    4.18 %     4.29 %
Nonperforming assets as a percent of total assets
    3.00 %     3.27 %
 
 
8

 
 
Analysis of the Allowance for Loan Losses
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
                       
   
Three months ended
 September 30,
   
Nine months ended
 September 30,
 
   
2010
   
2009
   
2010
   
2009
 
                         
Balance at beginning of period
  $ 20,588     $ 16,668     $ 19,114     $ 14,594  
Charge-offs
    (3,100 )     (2,853 )     (7,743 )     (7,956 )
Recoveries
    172       157       732       470  
   Net charge-offs
    (2,928 )     (2,696 )     (7,011 )     (7,486 )
   Provision for loan losses
    3,066       2,821       8,623       9,685  
   Balance at end of period
  $ 20,726     $ 16,793     $ 20,726     $ 16,793  
                                 
                                 
Average total loans* outstanding during the period
  $ 1,065,850     $ 1,123,737     $ 1,088,666     $ 1,136,671  
Allowance for loan loss as a percent of total loans*
    1.97 %     1.49 %     1.97 %     1.49 %
Allowance for loan loss as a percent
   of nonperforming loans
    59 %     51 %     59 %     51 %
Net Charge-offs^ as a percent of average loans*
    1.10 %     0.96 %     0.88 %     0.88 %
                                 
*All loan ratios exclude loans held for sale
                               
^Annualized
                               

NOTE 4 – FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Carrying amount and estimated fair values of financial instruments were as follows:
 
    (In Thousands of Dollars)   
    September 30, 2010      December 31, 2009   
    Carrying     Fair     Carrying     Fair  
    Amount     Value     Amount     Value  
Financial Assets:
                       
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 94,448     $ 94,448     $ 107,365     $ 107,365  
FDIC insured bank certificates of deposit
    10,419       10,419       10,250       10,250  
Trading account securities
    23       23       2,828       2,828  
Securities available for sale
    232,529       232,529       146,680       146,680  
Federal Home Loan Bank stock
    9,084       9,084       9,084       9,084  
Loans held for sale
    1,932       1,932       578       578  
Loans, net
    1,031,120       1,009,514       1,102,493       1,101,500  
Accrued interest receivable
    5,297       5,297       4,421       4,421  
Financial Liabilities:
                               
Deposits
    (1,172,251 )     (1,169,607 )     (1,149,063 )     (1,135,093 )
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase and overnight
                               
borrowings
    (39,617 )     (39,617 )     (39,409 )     (39,409 )
Federal Home Loan Bank advances
    (72,100 )     (74,575 )     (100,263 )     (104,356 )
Accrued interest payable
    (1,882 )     (1,882 )     (2,195 )     (2,195 )
Subordinated debentures
    (36,084 )     (37,389 )     (36,084 )     (38,114 )

The methods and assumptions used to estimate fair value are described as follows: The carrying amount is the estimated fair value for cash and cash equivalents, short term borrowings, Federal Home Loan Bank stock, accrued interest receivable and payable, demand deposits, short term debt, and variable rate loans or deposits that re-price frequently and fully. Security 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. For fixed rate loans and variable rate loans, fair value is based on discounted cash flows using current market rates applied to the estimated life and credit risk based on historical losses on similar loan pools. For deposits with infrequent re-pricing or re-pricing limits, fair value is based on discounted cash flows using current market rates applied to the estimated life of the product.
 
 
9

 

Fair values for impaired loans are estimated using discounted cash flow analysis or underlying collateral values for the specific loans in the portfolio and assumes the bank will resolve them through orderly liquidation. Fair value of loans held for sale is based on market quotes. Fair value of debt is 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. The fair value of off-balance sheet items was not material to the consolidated financial statements at September 30, 2010 and December 31, 2009.

The following table presents information about our investment portfolio, showing the gross unrealized gains and losses within each segment of the portfolio. Unrealized gains and losses are included in other comprehensive income. Unrealized losses have been analyzed and determined to be temporary in nature. The unrealized losses are related to changes in the interest rate environment compared with rates at the time the securities were purchased.

 
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Amortized
Cost
   
Unrealized
Gains
   
Unrealized
Losses
   
Market
Value
 
September 30, 2010
                       
Securities available for sale
                       
Treasury Notes
  $ 12,525     $ 25     $ 0     $ 12,550  
U.S.Government Agency Bonds
    89,904       962       0       90,866  
U.S. Government Agency CMOs
    91,357       1,197       (13 )     92,541  
Municipal Securities
    34,414       611       (71 )     34,954  
Other Securities
    1,620       0       (2 )     1,618  
  Total Securities available for sale
  $ 229,820     $ 2,795     $ (86 )   $ 232,529  

The following table’s present information about our assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis at September 30, 2010, and valuation techniques used by us to determine those fair values.

In general, fair values determined by Level 1 inputs use quoted prices in active markets for identical assets that we have the ability to access. Securities for Level 1 include, Treasury Notes, Government Sponsored Agency Bonds, Municipal Bonds, and Corporate Notes.

Fair values determined by Level 2 inputs use other inputs that are observable, either directly or indirectly. These Level 2 inputs include quoted prices for similar assets in active markets, and other inputs such as interest rates and yield curves that are observable at commonly quoted intervals. Level 2 securities consist of Government Sponsored Agency Backed Collateralized Mortgage Obligation.

Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs, including inputs that are available in situations where there is little, if any, market activity for the related asset or liability. Level 3 Securities include local Municipal Bonds where market pricing is not available, trust preferred securities issued by banks, and other miscellaneous investments.
 
 
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Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis

(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
(Level 1)
   
Significant Other Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
   
Significant Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
   
Total
 
September 30, 2010
                       
Securities available for sale
                       
Treasury Notes
  $ 12,550       -       -     $ 12,550  
U.S.Govenment Agency Bonds
    90,866       -       -       90,866  
U.S. Government Agency CMOs
    -       92,541       -       92,541  
Municipal Securities
    24,915       -       10,039       34,954  
Other Securities
    32       -       1,586       1,618  
  Total Securities available for sale
  $ 128,363     $ 92,541     $ 11,625     $ 232,529  
                                 
Trading equity securities
  $ 23       -       -     $ 23  
                                 
December 31, 2009
                               
Securities available for sale
                               
Treasury Notes
  $ 1,002       -       -     $ 1,002  
U.S.Govenment Agency Bonds
    98,183       -       -       98,183  
U.S. Government Agency CMOs
    -       10,339       -       10,339  
Municipal Securities
    27,954       -       5,866       33,820  
Other Securities
    1,643       -       1,693       3,336  
  Total Securities available for sale
  $ 128,782     $ 10,339     $ 7,559     $ 146,680  
                                 
Trading equity securities
  $ 2,828       -       -     $ 2,828  

Changes in Level 3 Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis

(Dollars in Thousands)
 
2010
   
2009
 
Balance at beginning of year
  $ 7,559     $ 7,880  
  Total realized and unrealized gains/(losses) included in income
    (150 )     0  
  Total unrealized gains/(losses) included in other comprehensive income
    56       0  
  Purchases of securities
    5,097       1,712  
  Sales of securities
    (397 )     0  
  Calls and maturities
    (540 )     (808 )
  Net out of Level 3
    0       (250 )
Balance at end of period
  $ 11,625     $ 8,534  

The Level 3 assets that were held at September 30, 2010 are carried at historical cost unless a better fair value can be determined.

Both observable and unobservable inputs may be used to determine the fair value of positions classified as Level 3 assets. As a result, the unrealized gains and losses for these assets presented in the tables above may include changes in fair value that were attributable to both observable and unobservable inputs.

Available for sale investments securities categorized as Level 3 assets primarily consist of bonds issued by local municipalities and other like assets. We carry local municipal securities at historical cost, which approximates fair value, unless economic conditions for the municipality changes to a degree requiring a valuation adjustment.

We also have assets that under certain conditions are subject to measurement at fair value on a non-recurring basis. These assets consist of impaired loans and other real estate owned. We have estimated the fair value of impaired loans using Level 3 inputs, specifically valuation of loans based on either a discounted cash flow projection, or a discount to the appraised value of the collateral underlying the loan. We use discounted appraised values or broker’s price opinions to determine the fair value other real estate owned.
 
 
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Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis

(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Balance at
September 30,
 2010
   
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
(Level 1)
   
Significant Other Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
   
Significant Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
   
Total Losses for the nine month period ended
September 30,
 2010
 
Impaired loans
  $ 29,587       -       -     $ 29,587     $ (5,563 )
Other Real Estate Owned
  $ 9,020       -       -     $ 9,020     $ (1,431 )

Impaired loans categorized as Level 3 assets consist of non-homogeneous loans that are considered impaired. We estimate the fair value of the loans based on the present value of expected future cash flows using management’s best estimate of key assumptions. These assumptions include future payment ability, timing of payment streams, and estimated realizable values of available collateral (typically based on outside appraisals). Other Real Estate Owned is valued based on either a recent appraisal for the property or a brokers' price opinion of the value of the property, which are discounted for expected costs to dispose of the property. The $5,563,000 in losses indicated in the table above was charged to the allowance for loan losses, while the $1,431,000 was charged to earnings through other non-interest expense on the income statement.

NOTE 5 – BASIC AND DILUTED EARNINGS PER SHARE
 
(Dollars in Thousands Except per Share Data)
  Three Months Ended
September 30,
    Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
   
2010
   
2009
   
2010
   
2009
 
Earnings per share
                       
   Net income
  $ 1,324     $ 1,217     $ 2,920     $ 2,792  
Preferred dividends
    413       413       1,238       1,101  
      Income available to common shareholders
  $ 911     $ 804     $ 1,682     $ 1,691  
   Weighted average common shares outstanding
    7,776,000       7,678,000       7,757,000       7,639,000  
                                 
   Basic Earnings per Share
  $ 0.12     $ 0.10     $ 0.22     $ 0.22  
                                 
Earnings per share assuming dilution
                               
   Net income
  $ 1,324     $ 1,217     $ 2,920     $ 2,792  
Preferred dividends
    413       413       1,238       1,101  
      Income available to common shareholders
    911     $ 804     $ 1,682     $ 1,691  
   Weighted average common shares outstanding
    7,776,000       7,678,000       7,757,000       7,639,000  
   Add dilutive effect of assumed exercises of options
    2,000       0       1,000       0  
   Weighted average common and dilutive
                               
      potential common shares outstanding
    7,778,000       7,678,000       7,758000       7.639.000  
                                 
   Diluted Earnings per Share
  $ 0.12     $ 0.10     $ 0.22     $ 0.22  

Stock options and stock warrants for 1,042,695 shares for the three and nine month periods of 2010, and stock options and warrants for 1,057,307 shares for the three and nine month periods of 2009, were not considered in computing diluted earnings per share because they were anti-dilutive.
 
 
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Item 2.    Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

The consolidated financial information presented is for Firstbank Corporation (“Corporation”) and its wholly owned subsidiaries; Firstbank - Alma, Firstbank (Mt. Pleasant), Firstbank - West Branch (including its wholly owned subsidiaries: 1 st Armored, Inc. (sold on March 31, 2010), 1 st Title, Inc. and its holdings in 1 ST Investors Title, LLC), (through September 30, 2009), Firstbank - St. Johns, Keystone Community Bank, Firstbank – West Michigan (collectively the “Banks”), FBMI Risk Management Services, Inc., and Austin Mortgage Company.

Financial Condition

The Michigan and national economies, while showing some signs of improvement, were operating well below optimal levels during the third quarter. Michigan continues to have one of the highest unemployment rates in the nation, a seasonally adjusted rate of 13.1% as of August 31, with continued high foreclosure rates and low demand for manufactured products. Nonperforming assets were $4.1 million lower compared with year end, as restructured loans which are in conformance with their new terms caused this category of nonperforming loans to be lower by $5.3 million and nonaccrual loans declined $2.2 million. Partially offsetting these improvements were increases in 90 day past due loans of $1.8 million and Other Real Estate Owned of $1.6 million. We believe nonperforming loans will continue to be elevated in the near term due to current economic conditions; however, we are constantly monitoring our loan portfolios for developing issues and reacting to them with swift actions to mitigate losses wherever possible.

During the first nine months of 2010, total assets decreased $4.5 million, or 0.3%, with cash and cash equivalents decreasing $12.9 million, or 12.0%.  Securities available for sale increased $85.8 million, or 58.5%, from year end 2009, due primarily to a reinvestment of cash balances held at the Federal Reserve into higher yielding investment securities and lack of loan demand. As a result of the soft loan demand, ending total portfolio loan balances decreased $69.8 million, or 6.2%, and quarterly average total loans were 5.2% lower in the third quarter of 2010 when compared with the fourth quarter of 2009.

Residential mortgages decreased $9.1 million, or 2.4%, from year end 2009 as pay down on loans exceeded our ability to generate replacement balances. Real estate construction loans also decreased $9.0 million, or 10.5%, during the first nine months of 2010. Commercial and commercial real estate loans were $45.4 million, or 7.7%, lower at September 30 when compared with year end 2009 as weak loan demand from qualified borrowers was unable to keep pace with principal pay downs.

Net charge-offs of loans were $2.9 million in the third quarter compared with $2.6 million in the second quarter of 2010 and $2.7 in the third quarter of 2009. The ratio of net charge-offs of loans (annualized) to average loans was 1.10% in the third quarter of 2010 compared to 0.95% in the second quarter and 0.96% in the third quarter of 2009. On a year to date basis, net charged-off loans were $7.0 million, or 0.88% (annualized), this year compared with $7.5 million, or 0.88%, a year ago.

At September 30, 2010, the allowance as a percentage of average outstanding loans was 1.97% compared with 1.49% at the same point a year earlier and 1.70% at year end 2009. Non-performing loans as a percent of total loans was 3.36% at September 30, 2010, compared with 2.69% a year earlier, and 3.66% at year end 2009. Nonperforming loans decreased $5.7 million, primarily due to a lower level of restructured loans,  and other real estate owned increased $1.6 million compared with year end numbers. Despite the current elevated levels of these measures, our overall asset quality compares favorably too many of our competitor banks in Michigan. We continue to be diligent in review of our loan portfolios for problem loans and believe that early detection of troubled credits is critical to our ability to maintain our allowance for loan losses at its current level. We maintain the allowance for loan losses at a level considered adequate to cover losses within the loan portfolio. The allowance balance is established after considering past loan loss experience, current economic conditions, composition of the loan portfolio, delinquencies, and other relevant factors.

Total deposits increased $23.2 million, or 2.0% when compared with year end 2009 balances. Within the deposit base, interest bearing demand account balances increased $29.1 million, or 11.4%, savings balances increased $28.7 million, or 16.5%, and time balances decreased $42.7 million, or 7.7%. Within time balances, wholesale CDs were $11.4 million lower than year end, while core market CDs were down $31.3 million. Given our current low levels of loan demand, both core CD’s and wholesale CD’s were allowed to mature without replacement. Non-interest bearing demand account balances were $8.1 million, or 4.9% higher than year end.
 
 
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For the nine month period ended September 30, 2010, Federal Home Loan Bank advances and notes payable were down $28.2 million, or 28.1% from year end, primarily due to cash needs being sufficient to allow Federal Home Loan Bank advances to mature without replacement. Securities sold under agreements to repurchase and overnight borrowings were basically unchanged, increasing $208,000, or 0.5%, due to normal fluctuations in customer cash flows.

Total shareholders’ equity increased $2.7 million from year end. Net income of $2,920,000 and common stock issuances of $304,000 increased shareholders’ equity, while common and preferred stock dividends of $1,779,000 decreased shareholders’ equity. Accumulated other comprehensive income increased $1.2 million from year end. Common stock issuance was primarily related to shares issued through dividend reinvestment. The per share book value of shareholders’ common equity was $15.01 at September 30, 2010, increasing from $14.77 at December 31, 2009. Tangible shareholders common equity per share (total equity less goodwill and other intangible assets) was $10.20 at the end of the third quarter of 2010, increasing from $9.79 at year end 2009. Shareholders’ common equity per share calculations excludes preferred stock of $32.7 million.

The following table discloses compliance with current regulatory capital requirements on a consolidated basis:

(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Leverage
   
Tier 1 Capital
   
Total Risk-
Based Capital
 
                   
Capital Balances at September 30, 2010
  $ 145,955     $ 145,955     $ 158,741  
Required Regulatory Capital
    58,959       40,718       81,435  
Capital in Excess of Regulatory Minimums
    86,996       105,237       77,306  
                         
                         
Capital Ratios at September 30, 2010
    9.90 %     14.34 %     15.59 %
Regulatory Capital Ratios – Minimum Requirement
    4.00 %     4.00 %     8.00 %

Our capital remains above regulatory guidelines for the third quarter of 2010. At the end of the third quarter our total risk based capital ratio was 15.59% compared with 14.21% at year end 2009. Tier 1 capital and tier 1 leverage ratios were 14.34% and 9.90% compared with 13.00% and 10.05% at year end 2009. The improvement in the risk based ratios was primarily driven by lower risk weighted assets compared with year end as higher risk weighted loans ran off and were replaced with lower risk weighted investments. The decline in the leverage ratio was due to a higher level of average assets as cash and the investment portfolio pushed up average assets. As of September 30, all of our affiliate banks continue to meet the “Well Capitalized” regulatory definition.
 
Results of Operations
 
Three Months Ended September 30, 2010

For the third quarter of 2010, net income was $1,324,000, basic and diluted earnings per share were $0.12, compared with net income of $937,000, and $0.07 basic and diluted per share for the second quarter of 2010, and net income of $1,217,000, $0.10 basic and diluted earnings per share, for the third quarter of 2009. Net income available to shareholders was $911,000 in the current quarter compared with $525,000 in the second quarter of the year and $804,000 in the third quarter of 2009. This year’s third quarter was once again, heavily impacted by a $3.1 million charge to loan loss provision, as well as $771,000 in expense relating to other real estate owned. The charge to loan loss provision was necessary as we identified additional loans for which the borrowers had exhausted their sources of repayment, or the value of the supporting collateral had declined. These loans were either transferred into nonaccrual status and specific reserves established, or charged down to the estimated value of the collateral that can be recovered on the loan.
 
 
14

 

Average earning assets increased $64.8 million, or 5.2%, when the third quarter of 2010 is compared to the same quarter a year ago. This was due primarily to an increase in interest-bearing balances held at the Federal Reserve and securities available for sale, offsetting a decline in loan balances. Compared with the previous quarter, earning assets increased $9.3 million, or 0.7%. The yield on earning assets decreased 45 basis points, to 5.38%, for the quarter ended September 30, 2010, compared to 5.83% for the same quarter a year ago, and was nine basis points lower when compared with the second quarter of 2010. The cost of funding related liabilities also decreased, falling 39 basis points when comparing this year’s third quarter to the same period a year ago, from 1.88% in 2009, to 1.49% in 2010. Compared with the prior quarter, the cost of funding related liabilities fell by 16 basis points. Since the decrease in the cost of funds relative to earning assets was less than the decrease in the yield on earning assets, the net interest margin decreased six basis points from last year’s third quarter to 3.89% in the current quarter. The net interest margin increased seven basis points when compared to the previous quarter. Net interest income increased $500,000 to $13.1 million in the third quarter of 2010 compared with the same period of 2009, as the increase in earning assets resulted in higher net interest income. Unpaid interest on loans which are transferred to nonaccrual status is reversed against interest income in the period. During the third quarter, interest reversals associated with loans moving to nonaccrual status were $99,000 compared with $97,000 in the same quarter a year ago and $196,000 in the second quarter of 2010.

The provision for loan losses increased $245,000 when the third quarter of 2010 is compared to the same quarter of 2009. Provision for loan losses was $3.1 million in this year’s third quarter compared with $2.8 million in the third quarter of 2009. Compared with the second quarter of this year, the provision for loan losses was unchanged. In the third quarter of the year we continued to see several types of previously performing loans deteriorate. This includes loans to borrowers who had been making payments as agreed but now have become unable to sustain those payments as the economy continued to struggle. We also identified loans where the value of the underlying collateral of the loan continued to decline. After a detailed review of these loans, it was determined that some of these loans should be moved to nonaccrual status, while others should be charged off. Following that review, our analysis showed that we needed to increase our provision for loan losses by $138,000 more than our charge offs to cover losses inherent in the portfolio. We perform quantitative and qualitative analysis of factors which impact the allowance for loan losses consistently across our six banking subsidiaries. The process applies risk factors for historical charge-offs and delinquency experience, portfolio segment growth rates, and industry and regional factors and trends as they affect the banks’ portfolios. The consideration of exposures to industries most affected by current risks in the economic and political environment and the review of risks in certain credits that are not considered part of the non-performing loan category contributed to the establishment of the allowance levels at each bank.

Total non-interest income was $3.3 million in the third quarter, compared with $3.0 million in the third quarter of 2009 and $2.4 million in the second quarter of 2010. Compared with 2009’s third quarter, gains on sale of mortgages were $950,000, or 86.1% higher, primarily due to an increase in mortgage refinancing resulting from the current low interest rate environment. Also effecting non interest income was lower other income, which was down $573,000 compared with last year’s third quarter, mainly due to the sale of our armored car business and losses on the sale of OREO property that exceeded last year’s third quarter by $117,000. As a result of our sale of the armored car business, other income will be lower by $200,000 to $250,000 per quarter.

Total non-interest expense decreased $289,000, or 2.6%, when comparing the three month periods ended September 30, 2010 and 2009 and was primarily due to lower expenses due to the sale of our armored car business. Our non-interest expenses will be $200,000 to $250,000 per quarter lower due to the sale of 1 st Armored. Compared with the second quarter of the year, non-interest expense was $195,000, or 2.1% higher, mainly due to higher OREO expenses which were up $305,000.

Federal Income tax expense was $1,048,000 in the third quarter of 2010, compared with $303,000 in the third quarter last year and of $311,000 in the second quarter of 2010. The increase was driven by both higher pre-tax earnings, and a $425,000 deferred tax impairment charge. The impairment charge relates to the capital loss on the company’s bank stock portfolio, which it no longer believes will recover in value or be offset with capital gains from other activities, therefore, the capital loss is unlikely to be deductible.
 
 
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Nine Months Ended September 30, 2010

For the first nine months of 2010, net income was $2.9 million, basic and diluted earnings per share were $0.22, compared with net income of $2.8 million and $0.22 basic and diluted per share for the first nine months of 2009. Net income available to common shareholders was $1,682,000 in 2010’s first three quarters compared with net income of $1,691,000 in the year ago period. The first nine months of the year was heavily impacted by a $8.6 million charge to loan loss provision, as well as $2.1 million in expense relating to other real estate owned. The charge to loan loss provision was necessary as we identified additional loans for which the borrowers had exhausted their sources of repayment, or the value of the supporting collateral had declined. These loans were either transferred into nonaccrual status and specific reserves established, or charged down to the estimated value of the collateral that can be recovered on the loan.

Average earning assets increased $56.3 million, or 4.2%, when the first nine months of 2010 is compared to the same period a year ago. This is due primarily to an increase in interest-bearing balances held at the Federal Reserve and securities available for sale, offsetting declines in loan balances. The yield on earning assets decreased 40 basis points, to 5.45%, for the nine months ended September 30, 2010, compared to 5.85% for the same period a year ago. The cost of funding related liabilities also decreased, falling 43 basis points when comparing this year’s first nine months to the same period a year ago, from 2.05% in 2009, to 1.62% in 2010. Since the decrease in the cost of funds relative to earning assets was larger than the decrease in the yield on earning assets, the net interest margin increased four basis points from last year’s first nine months to 3.83% in the current year.  Net interest income increased $2.0 million to $38.1 million for the first three quarters of 2010 compared with the same period of 2009, as the increase in earning assets and the higher net interest margin both contributed to higher net interest income. Unpaid interest on loans which are transferred to nonaccrual status is reversed against interest income in the period. During the first nine months of this year, interest reversals associated with loans moving to nonaccrual status were $431,000 compared with $524,000 in the same period a year ago.

The provision for loan losses decreased $1.1 million when the first nine months of 2010 is compared to the same period of 2009. Provision for loan losses was $8.6 million in this year’s first three quarters compared with a provision for loan losses of $9.7 million in the first three quarters of 2009. In the first nine months of the year we continued to see several types of previously performing loans deteriorate. This includes loans to borrowers who had been making payments as agreed but now have become unable to sustain those payments as the economy continued to struggle. We also identified loans where the value of the underlying loan collateral continued to decline.  After a detailed review of these loans, it was determined that some of them should be moved to nonaccrual status, while others should be charged off. Following that review, our analysis showed that we needed to increase our provision for loan losses by $1.6 million more than our charge offs to cover losses inherent in the portfolio. We perform quantitative and qualitative analysis of factors which impact the allowance for loan losses consistently across our six banking subsidiaries. The process applies risk factors for historical charge-offs and delinquency experience, portfolio segment growth rates, and industry and regional factors and trends as they affect the banks’ portfolios. The consideration of exposures to industries most affected by current risks in the economic and political environment and the review of risks in certain credits that are not considered part of the non-performing loan category contributed to the establishment of the allowance levels at each bank.

Total non-interest income was $7.9 million in the nine month period of 2010, compared with $11.3 million in the same period of 2009. Compared with 2009’s first nine months, gains on sale of mortgages were lower by $3.4 million, primarily due to a decrease in mortgage refinancing resulting from new regulatory restrictions on making residential mortgages and a high level of mortgage refinancing in the first half of 2009. Other factors affecting non-interest income in the current year compared to last year were higher mortgage servicing income which was up $609,000 on fewer write downs of servicing rights. Other income was $532,000 lower primarily due to the sale of our armored car subsidiary.

Total non-interest expense decreased $1.3 million , or 3.8%, when comparing the nine month periods ended September 30, 2010 and 2009 and was primarily due to lower salary and benefits of $927,000, lower occupancy of $546,000 and decreased FDIC insurance premiums of $419,000. Expense control initiatives put in place have resulted in savings in the salary and benefits and occupancy areas, along with reduced costs on a comparative basis associated with the sale of our armored car business. FDIC premiums were down on a comparative basis due to a special assessment charged to all banks in 2009. Partially offsetting these benefits were higher OREO expenses of $818,000 resulting from a higher level of write downs on properties in the OREO portfolio and higher costs of maintaining the properties.
 
 
16

 

Federal Income tax expense was $1.4 million in the first three quarters of 2010, compared with tax expense of $479,000 in the same time frame last year. The change in expense was mainly due to a higher effective tax rate in the current year and a $485,000 deferred tax assets impairment charge related to capital losses that we no longer believe we will be able to deduct on our tax returns.

Liquidity

At September 30, 2010, we have adequate sources of liquidity to meet our needs. Cash and cash equivalent balances were at $94 million, a decrease of $12.9 million, or 12.0%, compared with year end 2009. This decrease was primarily the result of reinvestment of funds into available for sale securities and a $28.2 million net pay down of Federal Home Loan Bank advances. Our securities available for sale increased $85.8 million from year end 2009, providing an additional source of liquidity should it be necessary. The additional liquidity was primarily derived from increased deposits of $23.2 million and loan pay downs of approximately $69.8 million.

Our banks maintain access to immediately available funds through federal funds lines at three correspondent banks, the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis, and the Federal Reserve’s discount window with aggregate available limits of $46 million, $82 million, and $60 million, respectively.  Our banks also have access to funds through brokered CD markets.

Contractual Obligations, Commitments, Contingent Liabilities, and Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

The Corporation has various financial obligations, including contractual obligations and commitments that may require future cash payments. Management believes that there have been no material changes in the Corporation’s overall level of these financial obligations since December 31, 2009 and that any changes in the Corporation’s obligations which have occurred are routine for the industry. Further discussion of the nature of each type of obligation is included in Managements Discussion and Analysis on page 13 and 14 of the Corporation’s Form 10K Annual Report, and is incorporated herein by reference.

Critical Accounting Policies

Certain of the Corporation’s accounting policies are important to the portrayal of the Corporation’s financial condition, since they require management to make difficult, complex or subjective judgments, some of which may relate to matters that are inherently uncertain.  Estimates associated with these policies are susceptible to material changes as a result of changes in facts and circumstances.  Facts and circumstances which could affect these judgments include, without limitation, changes in interest rates, in local and national economic conditions, or the financial condition of borrowers. Management believes that its critical accounting policies include determining the allowance for loan losses, determining the fair value of securities and other financial instruments, the valuation of mortgage servicing rights and other intangibles, determination of purchase accounting adjustments, and estimating state and federal contingent tax liabilities. The Corporation’s significant accounting policies are discussed in detail in Management’s Discussion and Analysis on pages 15 through 17 in the Corporation’s annual report to shareholders for the year ended December 31, 2009.

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

This report contains forward-looking statements that are based on management’s beliefs, assumptions, current expectations, estimates and projections about the financial services industry, the economy, and about the Corporation itself.  Words such as  “anticipate,”  “believe,”  “determine,” “estimate,”  “expect,”  “forecast,”  “intend,”  “is likely,”  “plan,”  “project,”  “opinion,” variations of such terms, and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements.  The presentations and discussions of the provision and allowance for loan losses, and determinations as to the need for other allowances presented in this report are inherently forward-looking statements in that they involve judgments and statements of belief as to the outcome of future events.  These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve certain risks, uncertainties, and assumptions that are difficult to predict with regard to timing, extent, likelihood, and degree of occurrence.  Therefore, actual results and outcomes may materially differ from what may be expressed or forecasted in such forward-looking statements.  Internal and external factors that may cause such a difference include changes in interest rates and interest rate relationships; demand for products and services; the degree of competition by traditional and non-traditional competitors; changes in banking regulations; changes in tax laws; changes in prices, levies, and assessments; the impact of technological advances; governmental and regulatory policy changes; the outcomes of pending and future litigation and contingencies; trends in customer behavior and customer ability to repay loans; software failure, errors or miscalculations; and the vicissitudes of the national economy.  The Corporation undertakes no obligation to update, amend or clarify forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.
 
 
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Item 3.    Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

Information under the headings, “Liquidity and Interest Rate Sensitivity” on pages 13 through 14 and “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure About Market Risk” on pages 17 and 18 in the registrant’s annual report to shareholders for the year ended December 31, 2009, is here incorporated by reference.  Firstbank’s annual report is filed as Exhibit 13 to its Form 10-K annual report for its fiscal year ended December 31, 2009.  Also referenced here is information under the heading “Item 1A. Risk Factors” on page 14 in the registrant’s Form 10-K annual report for its fiscal year ended December 31, 2009.

We face market risk to the extent that both earnings and the fair values of our financial instruments are affected by changes in volatility, market perceptions of credit risk and interest rates. We manage this risk with static GAP analysis and simulation modeling. We do not believe that there has been a material change in the nature of our primary market risk exposures, including the categories of market risk to which we are exposed and the particular markets that present the primary risk of loss to the Corporation. As of the date of this Form 10-Q quarterly report, we do not know of nor expect there to be any material change in the general nature of our primary market risk exposure in the near term.

The methods by which we manage our primary market risk exposures, as described in the sections of our Form 10-K Annual Report incorporated by reference in response to this item, have not changed materially during the current year. As of the date of this Form 10-Q quarterly report, we do not expect to change those methods in the near term. However, we may change those methods in the future to adapt to changes in circumstances or to implement new techniques.

Our market risk exposure is mainly comprised of our vulnerability to interest rate risk. Prevailing interest rates and interest rate relationships in the future will be primarily determined by market, economic, and geopolitical factors which are outside of our control. All information provided in response to this item consists of forward looking statements. Reference is made to the section captioned “Forward Looking Statements” of this Form 10-Q quarterly report for a discussion of the limitations on our responsibility for such statements.

 
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Item 4.    Controls and Procedures

a)
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 
On November 3, 2010, the Corporation’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer reported on the Corporation’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) to the Audit Committee.  The portion of that report which constitutes their conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures based on their evaluation as of September 30, 2010 is as follows:  “Based on our knowledge and the most recent evaluation, we believe the disclosure controls and procedures to be reasonably effective and commercially practical in providing information for management of the Corporation and for fair reporting to the investing public.”

b)
Changes in Internal Controls

During the period covered by this report, there have been no changes in the Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect the Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting.

PART II.  OTHER INFORMATION
 
Item 5.    Other Information

The audit committee of the Board of Directors approved the categories of all non-audit services performed by the registrant’s independent accountants during the period covered by this report.
 
Item 6.    Exhibits
 
 
Exhibit
Description

 
31.1
Certificate of the President and Chief Executive Officer of Firstbank Corporation pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 7241, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 
31.2
Certificate of the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Firstbank Corporation pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 7241, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 
32.1
Certificate of the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer of Firstbank Corporation pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 
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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements 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.
 
 
FIRSTBANK CORPORATION
 
 
(Registrant)
 
     
Date: November 3, 2010   /s/ Thomas R. Sullivan  
 
Thomas R. Sullivan
 
 
President, Chief Executive Officer
 
 
(Principal Executive Officer)
 
     
     
Date: November 3, 2010  /s/ Samuel G. Stone  
 
Samuel G. Stone
 
 
Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer
 
 
(Principal Accounting Officer)
 
     

 
 
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EXHIBIT INDEX

Exhibit
Description

31.1
Certificate of the Chief Executive Officer of Firstbank Corporation pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 7241, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

31.2
Certificate of the Chief Financial Officer of Firstbank Corporation pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 7241, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.1
Certificate of the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer of Firstbank Corporation pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 
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