Exhibit 99.3
Item 1. Financial Statements
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
(In thousands, except share amounts)
March 31, 2025 (Unaudited) | December 31, 2024 (Audited) | |||||||
Assets | ||||||||
Cash and due from banks | $ | 25,555 | $ | 27,321 | ||||
Interest-bearing deposits in banks | 127,430 | 153,833 | ||||||
Federal funds sold | 76,390 | 79,080 | ||||||
Total cash and cash equivalents | 229,375 | 260,234 | ||||||
Securities available for sale, at fair value ($209,077 at amortized cost, $0 allowance for credit losses at March 31, 2025; $207,595 at amortized cost, $0 allowance for credit losses at December 31, 2024) | 198,938 | 196,870 | ||||||
Securities held to maturity, at amortized cost ($16,405 at fair value, $0 allowance for credit losses at March 31, 2025; $16,032 at fair value, $0 allowance for credit losses at December 31, 2024) | 19,606 | 19,611 | ||||||
Other equity securities, at fair value | 2,754 | 3,697 | ||||||
Restricted equity securities, at cost | 4,408 | 4,441 | ||||||
Loans held for sale | 1,236 | 404 | ||||||
Loans, net of unearned income | 2,260,036 | 2,226,569 | ||||||
Less allowance for credit losses | 28,876 | 28,338 | ||||||
Loans, net | 2,231,160 | 2,198,231 | ||||||
Premises and equipment, net | 31,728 | 32,048 | ||||||
Accrued interest receivable | 10,432 | 10,111 | ||||||
Bank owned life insurance | 39,698 | 39,431 | ||||||
Annuities | 16,794 | 16,772 | ||||||
Foreclosed assets | - | - | ||||||
Goodwill | 33,176 | 33,176 | ||||||
Core deposit intangible | 8,539 | 8,939 | ||||||
Other assets | 23,301 | 24,289 | ||||||
Total assets | $ | 2,851,145 | $ | 2,848,254 | ||||
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity | ||||||||
Liabilities: | ||||||||
Deposits: | ||||||||
Noninterest-bearing | $ | 533,220 | $ | 575,357 | ||||
Interest-bearing | 1,892,411 | 1,835,940 | ||||||
Total deposits | 2,425,631 | 2,411,297 | ||||||
Other borrowings | - | 17,979 | ||||||
FHLB advances | 20,000 | 22,000 | ||||||
Subordinated notes | 91,382 | 91,245 | ||||||
Accrued interest payable | 1,585 | 2,172 | ||||||
Other liabilities | 22,363 | 23,672 | ||||||
Total liabilities | 2,560,961 | 2,568,365 | ||||||
1
Stockholders' equity: | ||||||||
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 2,000,000 shares authorized; 0 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024 | - | - | ||||||
Common stock, $5 par value, 30,000,000 shares authorized; 9,922,180 and 9,889,260 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively | 49,986 | 49,821 | ||||||
Capital surplus | 107,480 | 106,637 | ||||||
Retained earnings | 143,530 | 134,075 | ||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive loss | (7,503 | ) | (7,936 | ) | ||||
Unvested restricted stock | (1,168 | ) | (567 | ) | ||||
Vested restricted stock units | (2,141 | ) | (2,141 | ) | ||||
Total stockholders' equity | 290,184 | 279,889 | ||||||
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity | $ | 2,851,145 | $ | 2,848,254 |
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
2
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (UNAUDITED)
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
For the Three Months Ended | ||||||||
March 31, 2025 | March 31, 2024 | |||||||
Interest income: | ||||||||
Loans, including fees | $ | 38,202 | $ | 33,628 | ||||
Taxable securities | 2,239 | 1,981 | ||||||
Nontaxable securities | 247 | 229 | ||||||
Other interest and dividends | 2,476 | 2,898 | ||||||
Total interest income | 43,164 | 38,736 | ||||||
Interest expense: | ||||||||
Deposits | 16,689 | 15,906 | ||||||
Other borrowings | 1,596 | 1,991 | ||||||
Total interest expense | 18,285 | 17,897 | ||||||
Net interest income | 24,879 | 20,839 | ||||||
Provision for credit losses | 775 | 1,236 | ||||||
Net interest income after provision for credit losses | 24,104 | 19,603 | ||||||
Noninterest income: | ||||||||
Service charges on deposit accounts | 564 | 463 | ||||||
Swap (expenses) fees | (3 | ) | 15 | |||||
SBA/USDA fees | 40 | 64 | ||||||
Mortgage origination fees | 80 | 96 | ||||||
Net gain (loss) on securities | 23 | (12 | ) | |||||
Other operating income | 949 | 642 | ||||||
Total noninterest income | 1,653 | 1,268 | ||||||
Noninterest expenses: | ||||||||
Salaries and employee benefits | 6,924 | 6,231 | ||||||
Equipment and occupancy expenses | 828 | 689 | ||||||
Data processing fees | 909 | 643 | ||||||
Regulatory assessments | 429 | 360 | ||||||
Other operating expenses | 3,216 | 2,452 | ||||||
Total noninterest expenses | 12,306 | 10,375 | ||||||
Income before income taxes | 13,451 | 10,496 | ||||||
Income tax expense | 3,100 | 2,377 | ||||||
Net income | $ | 10,351 | $ | 8,119 | ||||
Basic earnings per share | $ | 1.04 | $ | 0.91 | ||||
Diluted earnings per share | $ | 1.03 | $ | 0.90 |
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
3
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (UNAUDITED)
(In thousands)
For the Three Months Ended | ||||||||
March 31, 2025 | March 31, 2024 | |||||||
Net income | $ | 10,351 | $ | 8,119 | ||||
Other comprehensive income (loss): | ||||||||
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on securities available for sale arising during the period, net of (tax) benefit of ($152) and $8, respectively | 433 | (22 | ) | |||||
Other comprehensive income (loss) | 433 | (22 | ) | |||||
Comprehensive income | $ | 10,784 | $ | 8,097 |
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
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SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (UNAUDITED)
(In thousands, except share amounts)
Preferred Stock | Common Stock | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Shares | Par Value | Shares | Par Value | Capital Surplus | Retained Earnings | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss | Unvested Restricted Stock | Vested Restricted Stock Units | Total Stockholders' Equity | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance, December 31, 2024 | - | $ | - | 9,889,260 | $ | 49,821 | $ | 106,637 | $ | 134,075 | $ | (7,936 | ) | $ | (567 | ) | $ | (2,141 | ) | $ | 279,889 | |||||||||||||||||||
Net income | - | - | - | - | - | 10,351 | - | - | - | 10,351 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Issuance of common stock | - | - | 1,499 | 7 | 42 | - | - | - | - | 49 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Exercise of common stock options | - | - | 9,500 | 48 | 65 | - | - | - | - | 113 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Issuance of restricted stock | - | - | 23,909 | 120 | 674 | - | - | (794 | ) | - | - | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Forfeiture of restricted stock | - | - | (1,988 | ) | (10 | ) | (54 | ) | - | - | 7 | - | (57 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock-based compensation | - | - | - | - | 116 | - | - | 186 | - | 302 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Common stock dividends | - | - | - | - | - | (896 | ) | - | - | - | (896 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other comprehensive gain | - | - | - | - | - | - | 433 | - | - | 433 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance, March 31, 2025 | - | $ | - | 9,922,180 | $ | 49,986 | $ | 107,480 | $ | 143,530 | $ | (7,503 | ) | $ | (1,168 | ) | $ | (2,141 | ) | $ | 290,184 |
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
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SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)
(In thousands)
For the Three Months Ended March 31, | ||||||||
2025 | 2024 | |||||||
OPERATING ACTIVITIES | ||||||||
Net income | $ | 10,351 | $ | 8,119 | ||||
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: | ||||||||
Depreciation and software amortization | 332 | 298 | ||||||
Net (gain) loss on other equity securities | (23 | ) | 12 | |||||
Net amortization of securities | 4 | 141 | ||||||
Amortization of core deposit intangible | 400 | 82 | ||||||
Provision for credit losses | 775 | 1,236 | ||||||
Deferred income taxes | 7 | 7 | ||||||
Stock-based compensation | 302 | 239 | ||||||
Net (increase) decrease in loans held for sale | (832 | ) | 25 | |||||
Income from bank owned life insurance | (267 | ) | (191 | ) | ||||
Increase in interest receivable | (321 | ) | (850 | ) | ||||
(Decrease) increase in interest payable | (587 | ) | 286 | |||||
Net other operating activities | (531 | ) | 1,992 | |||||
Net cash provided by operating activities | 9,610 | 11,396 | ||||||
INVESTING ACTIVITIES | ||||||||
Purchase of securities available for sale | (12,241 | ) | (6,515 | ) | ||||
Proceeds from sale of securities available for sale | - | 1,281 | ||||||
Proceeds from sale of other equity securities | 966 | - | ||||||
Proceeds from maturities, calls, and paydowns of securities available for sale | 10,788 | 6,689 | ||||||
Net redemption of restricted equity securities | 33 | 576 | ||||||
Net increase in loans | (33,704 | ) | (81,111 | ) | ||||
Purchase of premises, equipment and software | (12 | ) | (134 | ) | ||||
Net cash used in investing activities | (34,170 | ) | (79,214 | ) | ||||
FINANCING ACTIVITIES | ||||||||
Net increase in deposits | 14,334 | 91,609 | ||||||
Proceeds from issuance of common stock | 162 | 385 | ||||||
Restricted shares returned | (57 | ) | - | |||||
Net repayment of FHLB advances | (2,000 | ) | (18,000 | ) | ||||
Net repayment of other borrowings | (17,979 | ) | (18,997 | ) | ||||
Net proceeds of subordinated notes | 137 | 97 | ||||||
Common stock dividends paid | (896 | ) | (804 | ) | ||||
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities | (6,299 | ) | 54,290 | |||||
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents | (30,859 | ) | (13,528 | ) | ||||
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year | 260,234 | 250,651 | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period | $ | 229,375 | $ | 237,123 | ||||
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE | ||||||||
Cash paid during the year for: | ||||||||
Interest | $ | 18,871 | $ | 17,611 | ||||
Income taxes | $ | - | $ | 11 |
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
6
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Nature of Business
Southern States Bancshares, Inc. (the “Company”) is a bank holding company whose principal activity is the ownership and management of its wholly owned subsidiary, Southern States Bank (the “Bank”). The Bank is a commercial bank headquartered in Anniston, Calhoun County, Alabama. As of March 31, 2025, the Bank also operates branch offices in Birmingham, Opelika, Auburn, Huntsville, Sylacauga, Wedowee, and Roanoke, Alabama as well as Columbus, Carrollton, Cartersville, Dallas, Newnan and Rockmart, Georgia. The Bank also has two loan production offices (LPO) located in Atlanta, Georgia. The Bank provides a full range of banking services in its primary market areas and the surrounding areas.
Basis of Presentation and Accounting Estimates
The unaudited consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiary. Significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.
In preparing the unaudited consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the balance sheet date and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant change in the near term relate to the determination of the allowance for credit losses, the valuation of foreclosed assets, financial instruments, deferred taxes and investment securities. In connection with the determination of the estimated losses on loans and the valuation of foreclosed assets, management obtains independent appraisals for significant collateral.
The determination of the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses is based on estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant changes in the economic environment and market conditions.
The Company’s loans are generally secured by specific items of collateral including real property, consumer assets, and business assets. Although the Company has a diversified loan portfolio, a substantial portion of its borrowers’ ability to honor their contracts is dependent on local economic conditions.
While management uses available information to recognize losses on loans, further reductions in the carrying amounts of loans may be necessary based on changes in local economic conditions.
In addition, regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination process, periodically review the estimated losses on loans. Such agencies may require the Company to recognize additional losses based on their judgments about information available to them at the time of their examination. Because of these factors, it is reasonably possible that the estimated losses on loans may change materially in the near term. However, the amount of the change that is reasonably possible cannot be estimated.
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Cash Flows
For purposes of reporting cash flows, cash and cash equivalents includes cash on hand, cash items in process of collection, amounts due from banks, interest-bearing deposits in banks and federal funds sold. Cash flows from loans held for sale, loans, restricted equity securities, and deposits are reported net.
The Company maintains amounts due from banks which, at times, may exceed federally insured limits. The Company has not experienced any losses in such accounts.
The Bank is required to maintain reserve balances in cash or on deposit with the Federal Reserve Bank. On March 15, 2020, the Federal Reserve System Board announced an interim final rule amending Regulation D to lower all transaction account reserve requirement ratios to zero percent, thereby eliminating all reserve requirements as of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024.
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SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Securities
The Company classifies its debt securities into one of two categories based upon management’s intent and ability to hold the securities: (i) securities held to maturity or (ii) securities available for sale. Securities classified as held to maturity are stated at cost adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts. Purchase premiums and discounts are recognized in interest income using the interest method over the terms of the securities. The Company has the ability, and it is management’s intention, to hold such securities to maturity. Securities classified as available for sale are recorded at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses excluded from earnings and reported in other comprehensive income (loss). Purchase premiums and discounts are recognized in interest income using the interest method over the terms of the securities. Gains and losses on the sale of securities available for sale are recorded on the trade date and are determined using the specific identification method.
Management uses a systematic methodology to determine its allowance for credit losses for held to maturity debt securities. The allowance for credit losses is a valuation account that is deducted from the amortized cost basis to present the net amount expected to be collected on the held to maturity portfolio. Management considers the effects of past events, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts on the collectability of the portfolio. The Company’s estimate of its allowance for credit losses involves a high degree of judgment; therefore, management’s process for determining expected credit losses may result in a range of expected credit losses. Management monitors the held to maturity portfolio to determine whether a valuation account would need to be recorded. The Company had $19,606 and $19,611 of held to maturity securities and no related valuation account as of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively.
For available for sale debt securities in an unrealized loss position, the Company will first assess whether (i) it intends to sell or (ii) it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell the debt security before recovery of its amortized cost basis. If either case is applicable, any previously recognized allowances are charged off and the debt security’s amortized cost is written down to fair value through income. If neither case is applicable, the debt security is evaluated to determine whether the decline in fair value has resulted from credit losses or other factors. In making this assessment, the Company considers the extent to which fair value is less than amortized cost, any changes to the rating of the debt security by a rating agency and any adverse conditions specifically related to the debt security, among other factors. If this assessment indicates that a credit loss exists, the present value of cash flows expected to be collected from the debt security are compared to the amortized cost basis of the debt security. If the present value of cash flows expected to be collected is less than the amortized cost basis, a credit loss exists and an allowance for credit losses is recorded for the credit loss, limited by the amount by which the fair value is less than the amortized cost basis. Any impairment that has not been recorded through allowance for credit losses is recognized in other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax. Adjustments to the allowance are reported in the income statement as a component of credit loss expense. Available for sale debt securities are charged off against the allowance or, in the absence of any allowance, written down through income when deemed uncollectible by the Company or when either of the aforementioned criteria regarding intent or requirement to sell is met.
The Company excludes the accrued interest receivable balance from the amortized cost basis in measuring expected credit losses on debt securities and does not record an allowance for credit losses on accrued interest receivable. The accrued interest receivable on securities was $1,317 and $1,194 at March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively.
Other Equity Securities
The mutual funds owned by the Company are classified as equity securities and are carried at fair value with any periodic changes in value recorded through the statement of income.
Restricted Equity Securities
Restricted equity securities are investments that are restricted in marketability. The Company, as a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) system, is required to maintain an investment in capital stock of the FHLB based upon its assets or outstanding advances. The Company has also purchased stock in First National Banker’s Bankshares, Inc. (FNBB), and Pacific Coast Banker’s Bank (PCBB), both correspondent banks. These securities are carried at cost and periodically evaluated for impairment based on ultimate recoverability of par value.
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SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Loans Held For Sale
Loans originated and intended for sale in the secondary market are carried at the lower of cost or fair value (LOCOM). For loans carried at LOCOM, gains and losses on loan sales (sales proceeds minus carrying value) are recorded in noninterest income, and direct loan origination costs and fees are deferred at origination of the loan and are recognized in noninterest income upon sale of the loan. The estimated fair value of loans held for sale is based on independent third party quoted prices.
Loans
Loans that management has the intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future or until maturity or pay-off are reported at their outstanding principal balances less deferred fees and costs on originated loans and the allowance for credit losses. Interest income is accrued on the outstanding principal balance. Loan origination fees, net of certain direct origination costs, are deferred and recognized as an adjustment of the related loan yield over the life of the loan, using the straight-line method without anticipating prepayments.
The accrual of interest on loans is discontinued when, in management’s opinion, the borrower may be unable to meet payments as they become due, or at the time the loan is 90 days past due, unless the loan is well-secured and in the process of collection. In all cases, loans are placed on nonaccrual or charged off at an earlier date if collection of principal and interest is considered doubtful. All interest accrued but not collected for loans that are placed on nonaccrual or charged off is reversed against interest income or charged to the allowance; unless management believes that the accrual of interest is recoverable through the liquidation of collateral. Interest income on nonaccrual loans is recognized on the cash basis, until the loans are returned to accrual status. Loans are returned to accrual status when all the principal and interest amounts contractually due are brought current and the loan has been performing according to the contractual terms generally for a period of not less than six months.
Allowance for Credit Losses
The allowance for credit losses is based on the Company’s evaluation of the loan portfolios, past loan loss experience, current asset quality trends, known and inherent risks in the portfolio, adverse situations that may affect the borrower’s ability to repay (including the timing of future payment), the estimated value of any underlying collateral, composition of the loan portfolio, economic conditions, industry and peer bank loan quality indications and other pertinent factors, including regulatory recommendations. The process is inherently subjective and subject to significant change as it requires material estimates. The allowance is increased by a provision for credit losses, which is charged to expense, and reduced by charge offs, net of recoveries. In addition, various regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination process, periodically review the allowance for credit losses. Such agencies may require the Company to recognize adjustments to the allowance based on their judgments about information available to them at the time of their examination.
Loans with similar risk characteristics are evaluated in pools and, depending on the nature of each identified pool, the Company utilizes a discounted cash flow, probability of default / loss given default, or remaining life method. The historical loss experience estimate by pool is then adjusted by forecast factors that are quantitatively related to the Company’s historical credit loss experience, such as national unemployment rates and gross domestic product. Losses are predicted over a period of time determined to be reasonable and supportable, and at the end of the reasonable and supportable period losses are reverted to long term historical averages. The reasonable and supportable period and reversion period are re-evaluated each quarter by the Company and are dependent on the current economic environment among other factors.
The estimated credit losses for each loan pool are then adjusted for changes in qualitative factors not inherently considered in the quantitative analyses. The qualitative adjustments either increase or decrease the quantitative model estimation. The Company considers factors that are relevant within the qualitative framework which include the following: changes in lending policies and quality of loan reviews, changes in nature and volume of loans, changes in volume and trends of problem loans, changes in concentration risk, trends in underlying collateral values, changes in competition, legal and regulatory environment and changes in economic conditions.
9
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Allowance for Credit Losses (Continued)
Credit losses for loans that no longer share similar risk characteristics with the collectively evaluated pools are excluded from the collective evaluation and estimated on an individual basis. Specific allowances are estimated based on one of several methods, including the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral, observable market value of similar debt or the present value of expected cash flows.
The Company measures expected credit losses over the contractual term of a loan, adjusted for estimated prepayments. The contractual term excludes expected extensions, renewals and modifications unless there is a reasonable expectation that a loan modification will be executed. Credit losses are estimated on the amortized cost basis of loans. Accrued interest receivable on loans is excluded from the estimate of credit losses. The accrued interest receivable on loans was $8,994 and $8,786 at March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively.
Off-Balance Sheet Credit Exposure
The Company also has off-balance sheet financial instruments, which include unfunded loan commitments and letters of credit. The Company minimizes these risks through underwriting guidelines and prudent risk management techniques. For off-balance sheet instruments, the allowance for credit losses is calculated in accordance with Topic 326, representing expected credit losses over the contractual period for which the Company is exposed to credit risk resulting from a contractual obligation to extend credit. No allowance is recognized if the Company has the unconditional right to cancel the obligation. The allowance is reported as a component of other liabilities within the consolidated balance sheets. Adjustments to the allowance for credit losses for unfunded commitments are reported in the income statement as a component of other operating expense. The allowance for credit losses on off-balance sheet financial instruments was $1,405 at March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024.
Modifications to Borrowers Experiencing Financial Difficulty
The Company periodically provides modifications to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty. These modifications include either payment deferrals, term extensions, interest rate reductions, principal forgiveness or combinations of modification types. The determination of whether the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty is made on the date of the modification. When principal forgiveness is provided, the amount of principal forgiveness is charged off against the allowance for credit losses with a corresponding reduction in the amortized cost basis of the loan. A modified loan is tracked for at least 12 months following the modifications granted.
Premises and Equipment
Land is carried at cost. Premises and equipment are carried at cost less accumulated depreciation computed on the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets or the expected terms of the leases, if shorter. Expected terms include lease option periods to the extent that the exercise of such options is reasonably assured. Maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred while major additions and improvements are capitalized. Gains and losses on dispositions are reflected in income. The estimated useful lives are as follows:
Years | ||||
Buildings | 10-39 | |||
Furniture and equipment | 3-7 |
Transfers of Financial Assets
Transfers of financial assets are accounted for as sales, when control over the assets has been surrendered. Control over transferred assets is deemed to be surrendered when (1) the assets have been isolated from the Company - put presumptively beyond the reach of the transferor and its creditors, even in bankruptcy or other receivership, (2) the transferee obtains the right (free of conditions that constrain it from taking advantage of that right) to pledge or exchange the transferred assets, and (3) the Company does not maintain effective control over the transferred assets through an agreement to repurchase them before their maturity or the ability to unilaterally cause the holder to return specific assets.
10
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Foreclosed Assets
Assets acquired through, or in lieu of, loan foreclosure are held for sale and are initially recorded at fair value less estimated selling costs. Any write-down to fair value at the time of transfer to foreclosed assets is charged to the allowance for credit losses. Subsequent to foreclosure, valuations are periodically performed by management and the assets are carried at the lower of carrying amount or fair value less estimated costs to sell. Costs of improvements are capitalized, whereas costs related to holding foreclosed assets and subsequent write-downs to the value are expensed. Any gains and losses realized at the time of disposal are reflected in income.
Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the amount paid over the fair value of the net assets at the date of acquisition. Goodwill is subject to an annual evaluation of impairment. If desired, the Company can assess qualitative factors to determine if comparing the carrying value of the reporting unit to its fair value is necessary. Should the fair value be less than the carrying value, an impairment write-down would be taken. Based on its assessment of qualitative factors, the Company determined that no impairment existed at March 31, 2025.
Goodwill is not amortized but is evaluated for impairment on a quarterly basis or whenever an event occurs or circumstances change to indicate that it is more likely than not that an impairment loss has been incurred (i.e., a triggering event). The Company performed a goodwill impairment test in March 2025. The qualitative factors considered in determining if fair value of the unit was less than the carrying amount were economic conditions related to the change in the interest rate environment. A quantitative assessment of goodwill impairment included determining the estimated fair value of Company using a market-based approach. It was determined there was no impairment.
Core Deposit Intangible
A core deposit intangible is initially recognized based on a valuation, of acquired deposits, performed as of the acquisition date. The core deposit intangible is amortized over the average remaining life of the acquired customer deposits, or approximately 7 years. The intangible asset is reviewed annually for events or circumstances that could negatively impact the recoverability of the intangible. These events could include loss of core deposits, increased competition, or adverse changes in the economy. To the extent this intangible asset is deemed unrecoverable, an impairment charge would be recorded. The Company maintains steady deposit growth across our markets and continues to attract new customer deposits. The intangible asset was evaluated for impairment as of March 31, 2025 and based on that evaluation there was no impairment.
Accounting Policy for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities
Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging (ASC 815), provides the disclosure requirements for derivatives and hedging activities with the intent to provide users of financial statements with an enhanced understanding of: (a) how and why an entity uses derivative instruments, (b) how the entity accounts for derivative instruments and related hedged items, and (c) how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity’s financial position, financial performance, and cash flows. Further, qualitative disclosures are required that explain the Company’s objectives and strategies for using derivatives, as well as quantitative disclosures about the fair value of and gains and losses on derivative instruments, and disclosures about credit-risk-related contingent features in derivative instruments.
11
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Accounting Policy for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities (Continued)
As required by ASC 815, the Company records all derivatives on the balance sheet at fair value. The accounting for changes in the fair value of derivatives depends on the intended use of the derivative, whether the Company has elected to designate a derivative in a hedging relationship and apply hedge accounting and whether the hedging relationship has satisfied the criteria necessary to apply hedge accounting. Derivatives designated and qualifying as a hedge of the exposure to changes in the fair value of an asset, liability, or firm commitment attributable to a particular risk, such as interest rate risk, are considered fair value hedges. Derivatives designated and qualifying as a hedge of the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows, or other types of forecasted transactions, are considered cash flow hedges. Derivatives may also be designated as hedges of the foreign currency exposure of a net investment in a foreign operation. Hedge accounting generally provides for the matching of the timing of the hedged asset or liability that are attributable to the hedged risk in a fair value hedge or the earnings effect of the hedged forecasted transactions in a cash flow hedge. The Company may enter into derivative contracts that are intended to economically hedge certain of its risks, even though hedge accounting does not apply or the Company elects not to apply hedge accounting.
In accordance with the FASB’s fair value measurement guidance in ASU 2011-04, the Company made an accounting policy election to measure the credit risk of its derivative financial instruments that are subject to master netting agreements on a net basis by counterparty portfolio.
Income Taxes
Income tax accounting guidance results in two components of income tax expense: current and deferred. Current income tax expense reflects taxes to be paid or refunded for the current period by applying the provisions of the enacted tax law to the taxable income or excess of deductions over revenues. The Company determines deferred income taxes using the liability (or balance sheet) method. Under this method, the net deferred tax asset or liability is based on the tax effects of the differences between the book and tax bases of assets and liabilities, and enacted changes in tax rates and laws are recognized in the period in which they occur.
Deferred income tax expense results from changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities between periods. Deferred tax assets are recognized if it is more likely than not, based on the technical merits, that the tax position will be realized or sustained upon examination. The term more likely than not means a likelihood of more than 50 percent; the terms examined and upon examination also include resolution of the related appeals or litigation processes, if any. A tax position that meets the more likely than not recognition threshold is initially and subsequently measured as the largest amount of tax benefit that has a greater than 50 percent likelihood of being realized upon settlement with a taxing authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information. The determination of whether or not a tax position has met the more likely than not recognition threshold considers the facts, circumstances, and information available at the reporting date and is subject to management’s judgment. Deferred tax assets may be reduced by deferred tax liabilities and a valuation allowance if, based on the weight of evidence available, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of a deferred tax asset will not be realized. Management believes that the Company will generate sufficient operating earnings to realize the deferred tax benefits.
Stock Compensation Plans
Stock compensation accounting guidance requires that the compensation cost relating to share-based payment transactions be recognized in financial statements. That cost will be measured based on the grant date fair value of the equity or liability instruments issued. The stock compensation accounting guidance covers a wide range of share-based compensation arrangements including stock options and warrants, restricted stock plans, performance-based awards, share appreciation rights, and employee share purchase plans.
The stock compensation accounting guidance requires that compensation cost for all stock awards be calculated and recognized over the employees’ service period, generally defined as the vesting period. For awards with graded-vesting, compensation cost is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for the entire award. A Black-Scholes model is used to estimate the fair value of stock options, while the estimated market price of the Company’s common stock at the date of grant is used for restricted stock awards, restricted stock units and stock grants.
12
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Comprehensive Income
Accounting principles generally require that recognized revenue, expenses, gains and losses be included in net income. Although certain changes in assets and liabilities, such as unrealized gains and losses on available for sale securities, are reported as a separate component of the equity section of the balance sheet, such items, along with net income, are components of comprehensive income.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Fair values of financial instruments are estimates using relevant market information and other assumptions, as more fully disclosed in Note 13. Fair value estimates involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment. Changes in assumptions or in market conditions could significantly affect the estimates.
Revenue Recognition
On January 1, 2019, the Company adopted ASC 606 and all subsequent amendments (collectively ASC 606) which (1) creates a single framework for recognizing revenue from contracts with customers that fall within its scope and (2) revises when it is appropriate to recognize a gain (loss) from the transfer of nonfinancial assets, such as foreclosed assets. The majority of the Company’s revenues come from interest income and other sources, including loans and securities that are outside the scope of ASC 606. With the exception of gains/losses on sale of foreclosed assets, the Company’s services that fall within the scope of ASC 606 are presented within noninterest income and are recognized as revenue as the Company satisfies its obligations to the customer. Services within the scope of ASC 606 reported in noninterest income include service charges on deposit accounts, bank card services and interchange fees, and ATM fees.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
From time to time, new accounting pronouncements are issued by the FASB or other standard setting bodies that are adopted by the Company as of the required effective dates. Refer to “Note 1 Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the Company’s 2024 Form 10-K. Unless otherwise discussed, management believes the impact of any recently issued standards, including those issued but not yet effective, will not have a material impact on the Company’s financial statements taken as a whole.
13
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 2. ACQUISITION ACTIVITY
On July 31, 2024 (the “Effective Date”), the Company closed the transactions pursuant to the terms of the Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “Merger Agreement”), by and between us, the Bank, and CBB Bancorp (“CBB Bancorp”), the parent company of Century Bank of Georgia (“Century Bank”). On the Effective Date, (i) CBB Bancorp merged with and into us (the “Corporate Merger”), and we were the surviving corporation in the Corporate Merger and (ii) subsequent to the Corporate Merger, Century Bank merged with and into the Bank (the “Bank Merger”) with the Bank as the surviving banking corporation in the Bank Merger.
The Company issued 961,920 shares of its common stock valued at $31,474 as of July 31, 2024, plus $3,150 in cash, in exchange for all outstanding shares of CBB Bancorp common stock.
Prior to the acquisition, Century Bank operated branch offices in Cartersville and Rockmart, Georgia and provided a full range of banking services. Including the effects of the purchase method of accounting adjustments, the Company acquired $334,622 in assets, including $127,871 in loans, and $308,747 in deposits. The merger expanded and strengthened the Company’s footprint in the Georgia market.
The fair value of consideration paid exceeded the net assets acquired and resulted in goodwill of $16,313. The Company performs a quarterly and annual impairment test on goodwill and no impairment was recorded as of March 31, 2025.
The acquired assets and assumed liabilities as of July 31, 2024, as well as the adjustments to record the assets and liabilities at fair value, are presented in the following table:
Fair Value | As Recorded by | |||||||||||
Acquired | Adjustments | the Company | ||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 66,605 | $ | - | $ | 66,605 | ||||||
Securities available for sale - sold day 1 | 104,724 | - | 104,724 | |||||||||
Securities available for sale | 2,750 | (286 | ) | 2,464 | ||||||||
Restricted equity securities | 734 | - | 734 | |||||||||
Time deposits held as investments | 10,897 | (90 | ) | 10,807 | ||||||||
Loans | 132,618 | (4,747 | ) | 127,871 | ||||||||
Less allowance for credit losses | (1,619 | ) | 1,619 | - | ||||||||
Core deposit intangible | - | 8,896 | 8,896 | |||||||||
Premises and equipment, net | 3,903 | 1,610 | 5,513 | |||||||||
Other assets | 9,203 | (2,195 | ) | 7,008 | ||||||||
Total assets acquired | $ | 329,815 | $ | 4,807 | $ | 334,622 | ||||||
Deposits | 308,535 | 212 | 308,747 | |||||||||
Subordinated notes | 5,000 | (307 | ) | 4,693 | ||||||||
Accrued expenses and other liabilities | 2,871 | - | 2,871 | |||||||||
Total liabilities assumed | $ | 316,406 | $ | (95 | ) | $ | 316,311 | |||||
Net assets acquired | 18,311 | |||||||||||
Cash | 3,150 | |||||||||||
Common stock issued (961,920 shares) | 31,474 | |||||||||||
Total consideration paid | 34,624 | |||||||||||
Goodwill | $ | 16,313 |
The following is a description of the methods used to determine the fair values of significant assets and liabilities presented in the acquisition above.
14
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 2. ACQUISITION ACTIVITY (Continued)
Cash and Cash Equivalents: The carrying amounts of cash and due from banks, interest-bearing deposits in banks, and federal funds sold make up cash and cash equivalents. The carrying amount of these short-term instruments approximate fair value.
Securities Available for Sale: Securities available for sale were acquired with an adjustment to fair value based upon pricing models and discounted cash flows that considered standard input factors such as observable market data, benchmark yields, interest rate volatilities, broker/dealer quotes, and credit spreads.
Restricted Equity Securities: The carrying amount of restricted equity securities with no readily determinable fair value approximates fair value based on the redemption provisions of the issuers, which is cost.
Time Deposits Held as Investments: Fair values for fixed rate certificates of deposit are estimated using a discounted cash flow calculation that applies market interest rates on comparable instruments to a schedule of aggregated expected monthly maturities on time deposits.
Loans: The carrying amount of variable-rate loans that reprice frequently and have no significant change in credit risk approximates fair value. The fair values of fixed rate loans is estimated based on discounted contractual cash flows using interest rates currently being offered for loans with similar terms to borrowers with similar credit quality. Loans were acquired with an adjustment to fair value based upon these factors.
Core Deposit Intangible: The core deposit intangible represents the value of the relationship that the acquired bank had with its deposit customers. The fair value of this asset was estimated based on a discounted cash flow methodology that gave consideration to expected customer attrition rates, cost of the deposit base and the net maintenance cost attributable to customer deposits.
Premises and Equipment: Premises and equipment were acquired with an adjustment to fair value, which represents the difference between the Company’s current analysis of property and equipment values completed in connection with the acquisition and book value acquired.
Other Assets: The carrying value of other assets approximate fair value.
Deposits: The fair values disclosed for transaction deposits are, by definition, equal to the amount payable on demand at the reporting date (that is, their carrying amounts). Fair values for fixed rate certificates of deposit are estimated using a discounted cash flow calculation that applies market interest rates on comparable instruments to a schedule of aggregated expected monthly maturities on time deposits.
Subordinated Notes: Subordinated notes were acquired with an adjustment to fair value based on a discounted cash flow calculation using the estimated market interest rate of similar instruments.
Accrued Interest and Other Liabilities: The carrying amounts of accrued interest and other liabilities approximate fair value.
The following table presents pro-forma financial information as if the acquisition of CBB Bancorp had occurred on January 1, 2023. The results of operations of CBB Bancorp and Century Bank were included in the Company’s results beginning on August 1, 2024. The pro-forma financial information is not necessarily indicative of the results of operations had the acquisition been effective as of January 1, 2023. No assumptions have been applied to the pro-forma results of operations regarding revenue enhancements, expense efficiencies or asset dispositions. The pro-forma financials below excludes merger-related third party expenses, the accretion of fair value marks on securities available for sale, time deposits held as investments, acquired loans, deposits, as well as the amortization of fair value marks on core deposit intangible and subordinated notes.
For the Three Months Ended | ||||
March 31, 2024 | ||||
Net interest income | $ | 23,130 | ||
Net income | 9,102 |
15
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 3. EARNINGS PER SHARE
Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share reflect additional potential common shares that would have been outstanding if dilutive potential common shares had been issued, as well as any adjustment to income that would result from the assumed issuance. Potential common shares that may be issued by the Company relate to outstanding stock options issued and the vesting of restricted stock units, as well as any adjustment to income that would result from the assumed issuance. Potential common shares that may be issued by the Company relate to outstanding stock options and restricted stock units.
For the Three Months Ended March 31, | ||||||||
2025 | 2024 | |||||||
Basic Earnings Per Share: | ||||||||
Net Income | $ | 10,351 | $ | 8,119 | ||||
Weighted average common shares outstanding | 9,979,120 | 8,913,477 | ||||||
Basic earnings per share | $ | 1.04 | $ | 0.91 | ||||
Diluted Earnings Per Share: | ||||||||
Net income allocated to common shareholders | $ | 10,344 | $ | 8,111 | ||||
Weighted average common shares outstanding | 9,979,120 | 8,913,477 | ||||||
Net dilutive effect of: | ||||||||
Assumed exercises of stock options and vesting of restricted stock units | 93,209 | 129,645 | ||||||
Average shares and dilutive potential common shares | 10,072,329 | 9,043,122 | ||||||
Dilutive earnings per share | $ | 1.03 | $ | 0.90 |
NOTE 4. SECURITIES
The amortized cost and fair value of securities at March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024 are summarized as follows:
Amortized Cost | Gross Unrealized Gains | Gross Unrealized Losses | Fair Value | |||||||||||||
March 31, 2025 | ||||||||||||||||
Securities Available for Sale | ||||||||||||||||
U.S. Treasury securities | $ | 7,665 | $ | - | $ | (715 | ) | $ | 6,950 | |||||||
U.S. Government Sponsored Enterprises (GSEs) | 1,901 | 6 | (184 | ) | 1,723 | |||||||||||
State and municipal securities | 46,188 | 15 | (5,322 | ) | 40,881 | |||||||||||
Corporate debt securities | 15,049 | 8 | (795 | ) | 14,262 | |||||||||||
Asset based securities | 13,953 | 120 | (273 | ) | 13,800 | |||||||||||
Mortgage-backed GSE residential/multifamily and non-GSE | 124,321 | 278 | (3,277 | ) | 121,322 | |||||||||||
Total securities available for sale | $ | 209,077 | $ | 427 | $ | (10,566 | ) | $ | 198,938 | |||||||
Securities Held to Maturity | ||||||||||||||||
State and municipal securities | 19,606 | - | (3,201 | ) | 16,405 | |||||||||||
Total securities held to maturity | $ | 19,606 | $ | - | $ | (3,201 | ) | $ | 16,405 | |||||||
Total securities | $ | 228,683 | $ | 427 | $ | (13,767 | ) | $ | 215,343 |
16
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 4. SECURITIES (Continued)
Amortized Cost | Gross Unrealized Gains | Gross Unrealized Losses | Fair Value | |||||||||||||
December 31, 2024 | ||||||||||||||||
Securities Available for Sale | ||||||||||||||||
U.S. Treasury securities | $ | 9,678 | $ | - | $ | (869 | ) | $ | 8,809 | |||||||
U.S. Government Sponsored Enterprises (GSEs) | 2,029 | 7 | (206 | ) | 1,830 | |||||||||||
State and municipal securities | 46,353 | 23 | (4,613 | ) | 41,763 | |||||||||||
Corporate debt securities | 15,024 | 13 | (910 | ) | 14,127 | |||||||||||
Asset based securities | 14,663 | 176 | (347 | ) | 14,492 | |||||||||||
Mortgage-backed GSE residential/multifamily and non-GSE | 119,848 | 234 | (4,233 | ) | 115,849 | |||||||||||
Total securities available for sale | $ | 207,595 | $ | 453 | $ | (11,178 | ) | $ | 196,870 | |||||||
Securities Held to Maturity | ||||||||||||||||
State and municipal securities | 19,611 | - | (3,579 | ) | 16,032 | |||||||||||
Total securities held to maturity | $ | 19,611 | $ | - | $ | (3,579 | ) | $ | 16,032 | |||||||
Total securities | $ | 227,206 | $ | 453 | $ | (14,757 | ) | $ | 212,902 |
Securities with a carrying value of $25,503 and $19,529 at March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively, were pledged to secure public deposits and for other purposes as required or permitted by law.
The amortized cost and fair value of securities available for sale and securities held to maturity as of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024 by contractual maturity are shown below. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities in mortgage-backed securities because the mortgages underlying the securities may be called or repaid with or without penalty. Therefore, these securities are not included by maturity in the following summary:
March 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | |||||||||||||||
Amortized Cost | Fair Value | Amortized Cost | Fair Value | |||||||||||||
Securities Available for Sale | ||||||||||||||||
Due in less than one year | $ | 1,432 | $ | 1,407 | $ | 2,427 | $ | 2,421 | ||||||||
Due from one year to five years | 11,602 | 10,957 | 12,824 | 11,976 | ||||||||||||
Due after five to ten years | 21,876 | 20,169 | 21,417 | 19,567 | ||||||||||||
Due after ten years | 49,846 | 45,083 | 51,079 | 47,057 | ||||||||||||
Mortgage-backed securities | 124,321 | 121,322 | 119,848 | 115,849 | ||||||||||||
Total securities available for sale | $ | 209,077 | $ | 198,938 | $ | 207,595 | $ | 196,870 | ||||||||
Securities Held to Maturity | ||||||||||||||||
Due in less than one year | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | ||||||||
Due from one year to five years | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||
Due after five to ten years | 16,797 | 14,155 | 16,801 | 13,740 | ||||||||||||
Due after ten years | 2,809 | 2,250 | 2,810 | 2,292 | ||||||||||||
Mortgage-backed securities | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||
Total securities held to maturity | $ | 19,606 | $ | 16,405 | $ | 19,611 | $ | 16,032 | ||||||||
Total securities | $ | 228,683 | $ | 215,343 | $ | 227,206 | $ | 212,902 |
17
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 4. SECURITIES (Continued)
Gains and losses on sales and change in value of securities available for sale and other equity securities held at fair value for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and March 31, 2024 consist of the following:
For the Three Months Ended | ||||||||
March 31, 2025 | March 31, 2024 | |||||||
Gross gains | $ | 29 | $ | - | ||||
Gross losses | (6 | ) | (12 | ) | ||||
Net realized gain (loss) | $ | 23 | $ | (12 | ) |
Restricted equity securities as of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024 consist of the following:
March 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | |||||||
Federal Home Loan Bank stock | $ | 2,990 | $ | 3,023 | ||||
First National Banker’s Bankshares, Inc. stock | 1,168 | 1,168 | ||||||
Pacific Coast Banker’s Bank stock | 250 | 250 | ||||||
Total restricted equity securities | $ | 4,408 | $ | 4,441 |
The following table shows the gross unrealized losses and fair value of securities, aggregated by category and length of time that securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position at March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024.
Less Than Twelve Months | Over Twelve Months | |||||||||||||||||||
Gross Unrealized Losses | Fair Value | Gross Unrealized Losses | Fair Value | Total Unrealized Losses | ||||||||||||||||
March 31, 2025 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Securities Available for Sale | ||||||||||||||||||||
U.S. Treasury securities | $ | - | $ | - | $ | (715 | ) | $ | 6,950 | $ | (715 | ) | ||||||||
U.S. Government Sponsored Enterprises (GSEs) | - | - | (184 | ) | 1,217 | (184 | ) | |||||||||||||
State and municipal securities | (64 | ) | 1,993 | (5,258 | ) | 38,386 | (5,322 | ) | ||||||||||||
Corporate debt securities | (15 | ) | 985 | (780 | ) | 12,475 | (795 | ) | ||||||||||||
Asset based securities | (6 | ) | 1,004 | (267 | ) | 3,490 | (273 | ) | ||||||||||||
Mortgage-backed GSE residential/multifamily and non-GSE | (706 | ) | 38,347 | (2,571 | ) | 35,644 | (3,277 | ) | ||||||||||||
Total securities available for sale | $ | (791 | ) | $ | 42,329 | $ | (9,775 | ) | $ | 98,162 | $ | (10,566 | ) | |||||||
Securities Held to Maturity | ||||||||||||||||||||
State and municipal securities | - | - | (3,201 | ) | 16,405 | (3,201 | ) | |||||||||||||
Total securities held to maturity | $ | - | $ | - | $ | (3,201 | ) | $ | 16,405 | $ | (3,201 | ) | ||||||||
Total securities | $ | (791 | ) | $ | 42,329 | $ | (12,976 | ) | $ | 114,567 | $ | (13,767 | ) |
18
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 4. SECURITIES (Continued)
Less Than Twelve Months | Over Twelve Months | |||||||||||||||||||
Gross Unrealized Losses | Fair Value | Gross Unrealized Losses | Fair Value | Total Unrealized Losses | ||||||||||||||||
December 31, 2024 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Securities Available for Sale | ||||||||||||||||||||
U.S. Treasury securities | $ | - | $ | - | $ | (869 | ) | $ | 8,809 | $ | (869 | ) | ||||||||
U.S. Government Sponsored Enterprises (GSEs) | - | - | (206 | ) | 1,238 | (206 | ) | |||||||||||||
State and municipal securities | (24 | ) | 2,032 | (4,589 | ) | 39,225 | (4,613 | ) | ||||||||||||
Corporate debt securities | - | - | (910 | ) | 12,108 | (910 | ) | |||||||||||||
Asset based securities | (1 | ) | 507 | (346 | ) | 3,782 | (347 | ) | ||||||||||||
Mortgage-backed GSE residential/multifamily and non-GSE | (1,205 | ) | 38,701 | (3,028 | ) | 37,891 | (4,233 | ) | ||||||||||||
Total securities available for sale | $ | (1,230 | ) | $ | 41,240 | $ | (9,948 | ) | $ | 103,053 | $ | (11,178 | ) | |||||||
Securities Held to Maturity | ||||||||||||||||||||
State and municipal securities | - | - | (3,579 | ) | 16,032 | (3,579 | ) | |||||||||||||
Total securities held to maturity | $ | - | $ | - | $ | (3,579 | ) | $ | 16,032 | $ | (3,579 | ) | ||||||||
Total securities | $ | (1,230 | ) | $ | 41,240 | $ | (13,527 | ) | $ | 119,085 | $ | (14,757 | ) |
The unrealized losses on 230 securities at March 31, 2025 were caused by interest rate changes. Because the Company does not intend to sell the securities and it is not more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell the securities before recovery of the amortized cost bases, at maturity, the Company does not consider these securities to be credit impaired at March 31, 2025.
At March 31, 2025, no allowance for credit losses has been recognized on available for sale debt securities in an unrealized loss position as the Company does not believe any of the debt securities are credit impaired. This is based on the Company’s analysis of the risk characteristics, including credit ratings, and other qualitative factors related to available for sale debt securities. The issuers of these debt securities continue to make timely principal and interest payments under the contractual terms of the securities. The Company does not intend to sell these debt securities and it is more likely than not that the Company will not be required to sell the debt securities before recovery of their amortized cost, which may be at maturity. The unrealized losses are due to increases in market interest rates over the yields available at the time the debt securities were purchased. Management measures expected credit losses on held to maturity securities on a collective basis by major security type with each type sharing similar risk characteristics and considers historical credit loss information that is adjusted for current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts. With regard to securities issued by states and political subdivisions, management considers (i) issuer bond ratings, (ii) historical loss rates for given bond ratings, (iii) whether issuers continue to make timely principal and interest payments under the contractual terms of the securities, and (iv) internal forecasts. Historical loss rates associated with securities having similar grades as those in our portfolio have generally not been significant. Furthermore, as of March 31, 2025, there were no past due principal or interest payments associated with these securities. Based upon (i) the issuer’s strong bond ratings and (ii) a zero historical loss rate, no allowance for credit losses has been recorded for held to maturity state and municipal securities as such amount is not material at March 31, 2025. All debt securities in an unrealized loss position as of March 31, 2025 continue to perform as scheduled and the Company does not believe there is a possible credit loss or that an allowance for credit loss on these debt securities is necessary.
19
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 5. LOANS
Portfolio Segments and Classes
The composition of loans, excluding loans held for sale, is summarized as follows:
March 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | |||||||||||||||
Amount | % of Total | Amount | % of Total | |||||||||||||
Real estate mortgages: | ||||||||||||||||
Construction and development | $ | 247,264 | 10.9 | % | $ | 238,603 | 10.7 | % | ||||||||
Residential | 317,994 | 14.0 | % | 315,083 | 14.1 | % | ||||||||||
Commercial | 1,356,064 | 59.8 | % | 1,350,091 | 60.4 | % | ||||||||||
Commercial and industrial | 333,831 | 14.8 | % | 317,887 | 14.3 | % | ||||||||||
Consumer and other | 11,587 | 0.5 | % | 11,580 | 0.5 | % | ||||||||||
Gross Loans | 2,266,740 | 100.0 | % | 2,233,244 | 100.0 | % | ||||||||||
Deferred loan fees | (6,704 | ) | (6,675 | ) | ||||||||||||
Allowance for credit losses | (28,876 | ) | (28,338 | ) | ||||||||||||
Loans, net | $ | 2,231,160 | $ | 2,198,231 |
For purposes of the disclosures required pursuant to ASC 310, the loan portfolio was disaggregated into segments and then further disaggregated into classes for certain disclosures. A portfolio segment is defined as the level at which an entity develops and documents a systematic method for determining its allowance for credit losses. There are three loan portfolio segments that include real estate, commercial and industrial, and consumer and other. A class is generally determined based on the initial measurement attribute, risk characteristic of the loan, and an entity’s method for monitoring and assessing credit risk. Commercial and industrial is a separate commercial loan class. Classes within the real estate portfolio segment include construction and development, residential mortgages, and commercial mortgages. Consumer loans and other are a class in itself.
The following describe risk characteristics relevant to each of the portfolio segments and classes:
Real estate - As discussed below, the Company offers various types of real estate loan products. All loans within this portfolio segment are particularly sensitive to the valuation of real estate:
•Loans for real estate construction and development are repaid through cash flow related to the operations, sale or refinance of the underlying property. This portfolio class includes extensions of credit to real estate developers or investors where repayment is dependent on the sale of the real estate or income generated from the real estate collateral.
•Residential mortgages include 1-4 family first mortgage loans which are repaid by various means such as a borrower’s income, sale of the property, or rental income derived from the property. Also included in residential mortgages are real estate loans secured by farmland, second liens, or open end real estate loans, such as home equity lines. These loans are typically repaid in the same means as 1-4 family first mortgages.
•Commercial real estate mortgage loans include both owner-occupied commercial real estate loans and other commercial real estate loans such as commercial loans secured by income producing properties. Owner-occupied commercial real estate loans made to operating businesses are long-term financing of land and buildings and are repaid by cash flows generated from business operations. Real estate loans for income-producing properties such as apartment buildings, hotels, office and industrial buildings, and retail shopping centers are repaid by cash flows from rent income derived from the properties.
Commercial and industrial - The commercial loan portfolio segment includes commercial and industrial loans. These loans include those loans to commercial customers for use in normal business operations to finance working capital needs, equipment purchases, leases, or expansion projects. Loans are repaid by business cash flows. Collection risk in this portfolio is driven by the creditworthiness of the underlying borrower, particularly cash flows from the borrowers’ business operations.
20
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 5. LOANS (Continued)
Portfolio Segments and Classes (Continued)
Consumer and other - The consumer loan portfolio segment includes direct consumer installment loans, overdrafts and other revolving credit loans. Loans in this portfolio are sensitive to unemployment and other key consumer economic measures which affects borrowers’ incomes and cash for repayment.
Credit Risk Management
The Chief Credit Officer, Officers Loan Committee and Directors Loan Committee are each involved in the credit risk management process and assess the accuracy of risk ratings, the quality of the portfolio and the estimation of inherent credit losses in the loan portfolio. This comprehensive process also assists in the prompt identification of problem credits. The Company has taken a number of measures to manage the portfolios and reduce risk, particularly in the more problematic portfolios.
The Company employs a credit risk management process with defined policies, accountability and routine reporting to manage credit risk in the loan portfolio segments. Credit risk management is guided by a comprehensive Loan Policy that provides for a consistent and prudent approach to underwriting and approvals of credits. Within the Board approved Loan Policy, procedures exist that elevate the approval requirements as credits become larger and more complex. All loans are individually underwritten, risk-rated, approved, and monitored.
Responsibility and accountability for adherence to underwriting policies and accurate risk ratings lies in each portfolio segment. For the consumer portfolio segment, the risk management process focuses on managing customers who become delinquent in their payments. For the commercial and real estate portfolio segments, the risk management process focuses on underwriting new business and, on an ongoing basis, monitoring the credit of the portfolios. To ensure problem credits are identified on a timely basis, several specific portfolio reviews occur each year to assess the larger adversely rated credits for proper risk rating and accrual status.
Credit quality and trends in the loan portfolio segments are measured and monitored regularly. Detailed reports, by product, collateral, accrual status, etc., are reviewed by the Chief Credit Officer and reported to the Board of Directors.
A description of the general characteristics of the risk categories used by the Company is as follows:
•Pass - A pass loan is a strong credit with no existing or known potential weaknesses deserving of management’s close attention.
•Special Mention - A loan that has potential weaknesses that deserve management's close attention. If left uncorrected, these potential weaknesses may result in deterioration of the repayment prospects for the loan or in the institution's credit position at some future date. These loans are not adversely classified and do not expose an institution to sufficient risk to warrant adverse classification.
•Substandard - Substandard loans are inadequately protected by the current sound worth and paying capacity of the obligor or of the collateral pledged, if any. Loans so classified must have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses that jeopardize the liquidation of the debt. They are characterized by the distinct possibility that the institution will sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected.
•Doubtful - Loans classified Doubtful have all the weaknesses inherent in those classified Substandard with the added characteristic that the weaknesses make collection or liquidation in full, on the basis of currently known facts, conditions, and values, highly questionable and improbable.
•Loss - Loans classified Loss are considered uncollectible and of such little value that their continuance as bankable assets is not warranted. This classification does not mean that the loan has absolutely no recovery or salvage value but rather it is not practical or desirable to defer writing off this basically worthless asset even though partial recovery may be effected in the future.
21
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 5. LOANS (Continued)
Credit Risk Management (Continued)
The following tables summarizes the risk category of the Company’s loan portfolio based upon the most recent analysis on the year of origination as of March 31, 2025:
2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | Prior | Revolving Loans | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Real Estate Mortgages: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Construction and development | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Pass | $ | 20,023 | $ | 72,378 | $ | 38,449 | $ | 82,296 | $ | 15,672 | $ | 7,373 | $ | 6,294 | $ | 242,485 | ||||||||||||||||
Special Mention | - | - | - | - | - | 4,232 | - | 4,232 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Substandard | - | 144 | - | 403 | - | - | - | 547 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Doubtful | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | 20,023 | 72,522 | 38,449 | 82,699 | 15,672 | 11,605 | 6,294 | 247,264 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Current gross charge offs | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Residential | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Pass | 12,298 | 59,218 | 61,534 | 62,017 | 21,787 | 62,404 | 37,280 | 316,538 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Special Mention | - | 51 | 80 | - | - | 20 | 594 | 745 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Substandard | - | - | - | 266 | - | 397 | 48 | 711 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Doubtful | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | 12,298 | 59,269 | 61,614 | 62,283 | 21,787 | 62,821 | 37,922 | 317,994 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Current gross charge offs | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commercial | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Pass | 33,409 | 180,962 | 234,752 | 353,741 | 245,467 | 260,574 | 14,919 | 1,323,824 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Special Mention | - | 654 | 1,873 | 5,244 | 4,342 | 12,025 | - | 24,138 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Substandard | - | - | 657 | 425 | 5,096 | 1,924 | - | 8,102 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Doubtful | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | 33,409 | 181,616 | 237,282 | 359,410 | 254,905 | 274,523 | 14,919 | 1,356,064 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Current gross charge offs | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commercial and industrial | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Pass | 13,150 | 65,381 | 65,168 | 45,352 | 14,804 | 14,732 | 101,606 | 320,193 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Special Mention | - | 956 | 36 | - | - | 295 | 2,891 | 4,178 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Substandard | - | 1 | 2,797 | 2,142 | - | 4,520 | - | 9,460 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Doubtful | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | 13,150 | 66,338 | 68,001 | 47,494 | 14,804 | 19,547 | 104,497 | 333,831 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Current gross charge offs | - | 331 | - | - | - | - | - | 331 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Consumer and other | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Pass | 1,640 | 2,483 | 1,548 | 685 | 373 | 1,137 | 3,720 | 11,586 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Special Mention | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Substandard | - | - | - | - | 1 | - | - | 1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Doubtful | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | 1,640 | 2,483 | 1,548 | 685 | 374 | 1,137 | 3,720 | 11,587 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Current gross charge offs | - | - | - | 2 | - | - | - | 2 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Gross Loans | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Pass | 80,520 | 380,422 | 401,451 | 544,091 | 298,103 | 346,220 | 163,819 | 2,214,626 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Special Mention | - | 1,661 | 1,989 | 5,244 | 4,342 | 16,572 | 3,485 | 33,293 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Substandard | - | 145 | 3,454 | 3,236 | 5,097 | 6,841 | 48 | 18,821 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Doubtful | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 80,520 | $ | 382,228 | $ | 406,894 | $ | 552,571 | $ | 307,542 | $ | 369,633 | $ | 167,352 | $ | 2,266,740 | ||||||||||||||||
Current gross charge offs | $ | - | $ | 331 | $ | - | $ | 2 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 333 |
22
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 5. LOANS (Continued)
Credit Risk Management (Continued)
The following tables summarizes the risk category of the Company’s loan portfolio based upon the most recent analysis on the year of origination as of December 31, 2024:
2024 | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | Prior | Revolving Loans | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Real Estate Mortgages: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Construction and development | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Pass | $ | 77,290 | $ | 35,395 | $ | 91,896 | $ | 16,615 | $ | 1,584 | $ | 5,892 | $ | 5,082 | $ | 233,754 | ||||||||||||||||
Special Mention | - | - | - | - | - | 4,289 | - | 4,289 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Substandard | 145 | - | 415 | - | - | - | - | 560 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Doubtful | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | 77,435 | 35,395 | 92,311 | 16,615 | 1,584 | 10,181 | 5,082 | 238,603 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Current gross charge offs | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Residential | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Pass | 60,216 | 63,257 | 63,590 | 21,866 | 44,848 | 20,451 | 40,346 | 314,574 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Special Mention | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Substandard | 50 | - | 100 | - | - | 309 | 50 | 509 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Doubtful | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | 60,266 | 63,257 | 63,690 | 21,866 | 44,848 | 20,760 | 40,396 | 315,083 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Current gross charge offs | - | - | - | - | - | 11 | - | 11 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commercial | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Pass | 173,094 | 241,486 | 375,924 | 250,065 | 83,154 | 188,412 | 14,796 | 1,326,931 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Special Mention | 660 | - | 1,461 | 5,463 | - | 11,954 | 240 | 19,778 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Substandard | - | 664 | 437 | 325 | 479 | 1,477 | - | 3,382 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Doubtful | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | 173,754 | 242,150 | 377,822 | 255,853 | 83,633 | 201,843 | 15,036 | 1,350,091 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Current gross charge offs | - | - | 119 | 38 | - | - | - | 157 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commercial and industrial | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Pass | 63,387 | 70,165 | 37,732 | 16,052 | 15,064 | 5,732 | 102,167 | 310,299 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Special Mention | 987 | 56 | - | - | - | 314 | 2,827 | 4,184 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Substandard | 1 | 2,837 | 74 | - | - | 492 | - | 3,404 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Doubtful | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | 64,375 | 73,058 | 37,806 | 16,052 | 15,064 | 6,538 | 104,994 | 317,887 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Current gross charge offs | - | - | 1,210 | - | - | - | - | 1,210 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Consumer and other | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Pass | 3,713 | 1,777 | 772 | 403 | 22 | 1,135 | 3,754 | 11,576 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Special Mention | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Substandard | - | - | - | 4 | - | - | - | 4 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Doubtful | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | 3,713 | 1,777 | 772 | 407 | 22 | 1,135 | 3,754 | 11,580 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Current gross charge offs | 10 | 15 | - | - | - | - | - | 25 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Gross Loans | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Pass | 377,700 | 412,080 | 569,914 | 305,001 | 144,672 | 221,622 | 166,145 | 2,197,134 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Special Mention | 1,647 | 56 | 1,461 | 5,463 | - | 16,557 | 3,067 | 28,251 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Substandard | 196 | 3,501 | 1,026 | 329 | 479 | 2,278 | 50 | 7,859 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Doubtful | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 379,543 | $ | 415,637 | $ | 572,401 | $ | 310,793 | $ | 145,151 | $ | 240,457 | $ | 169,262 | $ | 2,233,244 | ||||||||||||||||
Current gross charge offs | $ | 10 | $ | 15 | $ | 1,329 | $ | 38 | $ | - | $ | 11 | $ | - | $ | 1,403 |
23
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 5. LOANS (Continued)
Credit Risk Management (Continued)
Collateral Dependent Loans
The Company classifies a loan as collateral dependent when the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty, and expected repayment is to be provided substantially through the operation or sale of collateral. The following tables summarize collateral dependent loans, which are individually evaluated to determine expected credit losses, as of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024:
Real Estate | Other | Total | ACL | |||||||||||||
As of March 31, 2025 | ||||||||||||||||
Real estate mortgages: | ||||||||||||||||
Construction and development | $ | 678 | $ | - | $ | 678 | $ | 21 | ||||||||
Residential | 1,103 | - | 1,103 | 47 | ||||||||||||
Commercial | 10,712 | - | 10,712 | 507 | ||||||||||||
Commercial and industrial | - | 9,642 | 9,642 | 403 | ||||||||||||
Consumer and other | - | 2 | 2 | - | ||||||||||||
Total | $ | 12,493 | $ | 9,644 | $ | 22,137 | $ | 978 |
Real Estate | Other | Total | ACL | |||||||||||||
As of December 31, 2024 | ||||||||||||||||
Real estate mortgages: | ||||||||||||||||
Construction and development | $ | 696 | $ | - | $ | 696 | $ | 23 | ||||||||
Residential | 924 | - | 924 | 49 | ||||||||||||
Commercial | 9,672 | - | 9,672 | 557 | ||||||||||||
Commercial and industrial | - | 3,411 | 3,411 | 205 | ||||||||||||
Consumer and other | - | 11 | 11 | - | ||||||||||||
Total | $ | 11,292 | $ | 3,422 | $ | 14,714 | $ | 834 |
Past Due Loans
A loan is considered past due if any required principal and interest payments have not been received as of the date such payments were required to be made under the terms of the loan agreement. Generally, management places a loan on nonaccrual when there is a clear indication that the borrower’s cash flow may not be sufficient to meet payments as they become due, which is generally when a loan is 90 days past due. The following tables present the aging of the recorded investment in loans and leases as of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024:
24
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 5. LOANS (Continued)
Past Due Status (Accruing Loans) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Current | 30-59 Days | 60-89 Days | 90+ Days | Total Past Due | Nonaccrual with ACL | Nonaccrual without ACL | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
As of March 31, 2025 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Real estate mortgages: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Construction and development | $ | 244,980 | $ | 1,481 | $ | 400 | $ | - | $ | 1,881 | $ | - | $ | 403 | $ | 247,264 | ||||||||||||||||
Residential | 316,570 | 666 | - | - | 666 | 20 | 738 | 317,994 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commercial | 1,351,095 | 1,679 | 596 | - | 2,275 | 2,392 | 302 | 1,356,064 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commercial and industrial | 327,985 | 2,428 | 98 | - | 2,526 | 603 | 2,717 | 333,831 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Consumer and other | 11,563 | 20 | 4 | - | 24 | - | - | 11,587 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 2,252,193 | $ | 6,274 | $ | 1,098 | $ | - | $ | 7,372 | $ | 3,015 | $ | 4,160 | $ | 2,266,740 | ||||||||||||||||
As of December 31, 2024 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Real estate mortgages: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Construction and development | $ | 237,390 | $ | 636 | $ | 162 | $ | - | $ | 798 | $ | - | $ | 415 | $ | 238,603 | ||||||||||||||||
Residential | 313,660 | 818 | 46 | - | 864 | 21 | 538 | 315,083 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commercial | 1,340,990 | 5,239 | 1,667 | 98 | 7,004 | 1,772 | 325 | 1,350,091 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Commercial and industrial | 313,454 | 1,070 | - | - | 1,070 | 570 | 2,793 | 317,887 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Consumer and other | 11,569 | 10 | - | 1 | 11 | - | - | 11,580 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 2,217,063 | $ | 7,773 | $ | 1,875 | $ | 99 | $ | 9,747 | $ | 2,363 | $ | 4,071 | $ | 2,233,244 |
The Company recognized $79 and $49 of interest income on nonaccrual loans during the three months ended March 31, 2025, and March 31, 2024, respectively.
Allowance for Credit Losses
The following tables detail activity in the allowance for credit losses by portfolio segment as of March 31, 2025 and March 31, 2024. Allocation of a portion of the allowance to one category of loans does not preclude its availability to absorb losses in other categories.
We maintain an allowance for credit losses on unfunded loan commitments and letters of credit to provide for the risk of loss inherent in these arrangements. The allowance for credit losses is computed using a methodology similar to that used to determine the allowance for credit losses for loans, modified to take into account the probability of a drawdown on the commitment. The allowance for credit losses on unfunded loan commitments is classified as a liability account on the consolidated balance sheet within other liabilities, while corresponding provision for these credit losses is recorded as a component of other operating expense. At March 31, 2025, $1,405 in allowance for credit losses on unfunded commitments was included in other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.
Real Estate | Commercial | Consumer | Total | |||||||||||||
Allowance for credit losses: | ||||||||||||||||
Balance at December 31, 2024 | $ | 23,861 | $ | 4,367 | $ | 110 | $ | 28,338 | ||||||||
Provision for credit losses | 182 | 592 | 1 | 775 | ||||||||||||
Loans charged off | - | (331 | ) | (2 | ) | (333 | ) | |||||||||
Recoveries of loans previously charged off | 6 | 89 | 1 | 96 | ||||||||||||
Ending balance at March 31, 2025 | $ | 24,049 | $ | 4,717 | $ | 110 | $ | 28,876 |
25
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 5. LOANS (Continued)
Real Estate | Commercial | Consumer | Total | |||||||||||||
Allowance for credit losses: | ||||||||||||||||
Balance at December 31, 2023 | $ | 19,826 | $ | 4,466 | $ | 86 | $ | 24,378 | ||||||||
Provision for credit losses | 1,173 | 48 | 15 | 1,236 | ||||||||||||
Loans charged off | (38 | ) | (442 | ) | (15 | ) | (495 | ) | ||||||||
Recoveries of loans previously charged off | 8 | 16 | 1 | 25 | ||||||||||||
Ending balance at March 31, 2024 | $ | 20,969 | $ | 4,088 | $ | 87 | $ | 25,144 | ||||||||
Modifications to Borrowers Experiencing Financial Difficulty
On January 1, 2023, the Company adopted ASU 2022-02, “Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Troubled Debt Restructurings and Vintage Disclosures.” This standard eliminated the previous accounting guidance for troubled debt restructurings and added additional disclosure requirements for gross charge offs by year of origination. It also prescribes guidance for reporting modifications of loans to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty.
From time to time, we may modify certain loans to borrowers who are experiencing financial difficulty. In some cases, these modifications may result in new loans. Loan modifications to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty may be in the form of a principal forgiveness, an interest rate reduction, a payment delay, a term extension, or a combination thereof, among other things.
The table below details the amortized cost basis at the end of the reporting period for loans made to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty that were modified during the three months ended March 31, 2025.
Three Months Ended March 31, 2025 | Term Extension | Term Extension and Rate Adjustment | Total | Percentage of Total Loans | ||||||||||||
Real estate mortgages: | ||||||||||||||||
Construction and development | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | - | % | ||||||||
Residential | - | - | - | - | % | |||||||||||
Commercial | - | - | - | - | % | |||||||||||
Commercial and industrial | - | - | - | - | % | |||||||||||
Consumer and other | - | - | - | - | % | |||||||||||
Total | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | - | % |
The Company had no modified loans during the three months ended March 31, 2025 that subsequently defaulted. For purposes of this disclosure, the term default is defined as the earlier of being placed on nonaccrual status or reaching 90 days past due and still accruing with respect to principle and/or interest payments. The Company has no unfunded commitments to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty for which the Company has modified their loans as of March 31, 2025.
The table below details the amortized cost basis at the end of the reporting period for loans made to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty that were modified during the year ended December 31, 2024.
26
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 5. LOANS (Continued)
Modifications to Borrowers Experiencing Financial Difficulty (Continued)
Year Ended December 31, 2024 | Term Extension | Term Extension and Rate Adjustment | Total | Percentage of Total Loans | ||||||||||||
Real estate mortgages: | ||||||||||||||||
Construction and development | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | - | % | ||||||||
Residential | - | - | - | - | % | |||||||||||
Commercial | - | - | - | - | % | |||||||||||
Commercial and industrial | - | - | - | - | % | |||||||||||
Consumer and other | - | - | - | - | % | |||||||||||
Total | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | - | % |
The Company had no modified loans during the year ended December 31, 2024 that subsequently defaulted. For purposes of this disclosure, the term default is defined as the earlier of being placed on nonaccrual status or reaching 90 days past due and still accruing with respect to principle and/or interest payments. The Company has no unfunded commitments to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty for which the Company has modified their loans as of December 31, 2024.
Accretable Yield
The Company did not acquire any purchase credit deteriorated loans (PCD) as a result of the merger with Century Bank. Changes in the accretable yield, or income expected to be collected, on acquired non-PCD loans as of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024 were as follows:
March 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | |||||||
Balance, beginning of the year | $ | 4,372 | $ | 67 | ||||
Additions | - | 4,747 | ||||||
Disposals | (154 | ) | (79 | ) | ||||
Accretion | (116 | ) | (363 | ) | ||||
Balance, end of the period | $ | 4,102 | $ | 4,372 |
NOTE 6. DEPOSITS
Major classifications of deposits are as follows:
March 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | |||||||
Noninterest-bearing transaction | $ | 533,220 | $ | 575,357 | ||||
Interest-bearing transaction | 1,183,984 | 1,128,959 | ||||||
Savings | 54,795 | 52,472 | ||||||
Time deposits, $250,000 and under | 518,958 | 512,717 | ||||||
Time deposits, over $250,000 | 134,674 | 141,792 | ||||||
$ | 2,425,631 | $ | 2,411,297 |
Brokered deposits totaled $162,535 at March 31, 2025 and $150,014 at December 31, 2024. The scheduled maturities of time deposits at March 31, 2025 are as follows:
27
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 6. DEPOSITS (Continued)
April 1, 2025 to March 31, 2026 | $ | 572,467 | ||
April 1, 2026 to March 31, 2027 | 66,103 | |||
April 1, 2027 to March 31, 2028 | 11,598 | |||
April 1, 2028 to March 31, 2029 | 1,786 | |||
April 1, 2029 to March 31, 2030 | 1,667 | |||
Thereafter | 11 | |||
$ | 653,632 |
At March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, overdrawn transaction accounts reclassified to loans totaled $224 and $639, respectively.
NOTE 7. SUBORDINATED NOTES
On February 7, 2022, the Company issued $48,000 of Fixed-to-Floating Rate Subordinated Notes due February 2032 (the “Notes”). The Notes bear interest at 3.5% per annum, payable quarterly in arrears. From and including February 7, 2027, to but excluding the maturity date or early redemption date, the interest rate will reset quarterly to a Three-Month Term Secured Overnight Financing Rate plus 205 basis points, payable quarterly in arrears. The Company will be entitled to redeem the Notes, in whole or in part, on any interest payment on or after February 7, 2027, and to redeem the Notes in whole upon certain other events. On September 19, 2024, the Company redeemed $500 of the Notes held by Century Bank in connection with the acquisition, resulting in a principal amount $47,500 at March 31, 2025. Issuance costs related to the Notes totaled $1,093 and have been netted against the subordinated notes liability on the balance sheet. At March 31, 2025, the remaining balance of the debt issuance cost was $406. The debt issuance costs are being amortized using the straight line method over sixty months and are recorded as a component of interest expense.
On October 26, 2022, the Company issued $40,000 of Fixed-to-Floating Rate Subordinated Notes due October 2032 (the “2032 Notes”). The 2032 Notes bear interest at 7.0% per annum, payable quarterly in arrears. From and including October 26, 2027, to but excluding the maturity date or early redemption date, the interest rate will reset quarterly to a Three-Month Term Secured Overnight Financing Rate plus 306 basis points, payable quarterly in arrears. The Company will be entitled to redeem the 2032 Notes, in whole or in part, on any interest payment on or after October 26, 2027, and to redeem the 2032 Notes in whole upon certain other events. Issuance costs related to the 2032 Notes totaled $832 and have been netted against the subordinated notes liability on the balance sheet. At March 31, 2025, the remaining balance of the debt issuance cost was $430. The debt issuance costs are being amortized using the straight line method over sixty months and are recorded as a component of interest expense.
On July 31, 2024, the Company assumed Fixed-to-Floating Rate Subordinated Notes due December 2031 from the acquisition of Century Bank (the “Century Notes”) in an aggregate principal amount, net of premium adjustments, of $4,703. The Century Notes will mature on December 22, 2031, and through December 22, 2026 will bear a fixed rate of interest of 3.5% per annum, payable quarterly in arrears. From and including December 22, 2026, to but excluding the maturity date or early redemption date, the interest will reset quarterly to a floating rate per annum equal to the then current Three-Month Term Secured Overnight Financing Rate plus 242 basis points, payable quarterly in arrears. Issuance costs related to the Century Notes totaled $172 and have been netted against the subordinated notes liability on the balance sheet. At March 31, 2025, the remaining balance of the debt issuance cost was $60. The debt issuance costs are being amortized using the straight line method over sixty months and are recorded as a component of interest expense.
28
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 8. DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES
Risk Management Objective of Using Derivatives
The Company is exposed to certain risk arising from both its business operations and economic conditions. The Company principally manages its exposures to a wide variety of business and operational risks through management of its core business activities. The Company manages economic risks, including interest rate, liquidity, and credit risk primarily by managing the amount, sources, and duration of its assets and liabilities and the use of derivative financial instruments. Specifically, the Company enters into derivative financial instruments to manage exposures that arise from business activities that result in the receipt or payment of future known and uncertain cash amounts, the value of which are determined by interest rates.
Non-designated Hedges
Derivatives not designated as hedges are not speculative and result from a service the Company provides to certain customers. The Company executes interest rate swaps with commercial banking customers to facilitate their respective risk management strategies. Those interest rate swaps are simultaneously hedged by offsetting derivatives that the Company executes with a third party, such that the Company minimizes its net risk exposure resulting from such transactions. As the interest rate derivatives associated with this program do not meet the strict hedge accounting requirements, changes in the fair value of both the customer derivatives and the offsetting derivatives are recognized directly in earnings.
Tabular Disclosure of Fair Values of Derivative Instruments on the Balance Sheet
The table below presents the fair value of the Company’s derivative financial instruments including the effects of offsetting as well as their classification on the consolidated balance sheets as of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024. As of March 31, 2025, the Company has posted cash collateral of $5,240. The amount of loss recognized in expense on derivatives as a fair value adjustment and fee income, for the three months ended March 31, 2025, were $3 and $0, respectively.
March 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Derivatives not Designated as Hedging Instruments | Notional
Amount | Balance Sheet Location | Fair Value | Derivatives not Designated as Hedging Instruments | Notional
Amount | Balance Sheet Location | Fair Value | |||||||||||||||
Interest Rate Products | $ | 99,382 | Other Assets | $ | 5,666 | Interest Rate Products | $ | 101,185 | Other Assets | $ | 6,444 | |||||||||||
Interest Rate Products | 99,382 | Other Liabilities | (5,680 | ) | Interest Rate Products | 101,185 | Other Liabilities | (6,454 | ) |
Credit-risk-related Contingent Features
Applicable for OTC derivatives with dealers
The Company has agreements with each of its derivative counterparties that contain a provision where if the Company defaults on any of its indebtedness, including default where repayment of the indebtedness has not been accelerated by the lender, then the Company could also be declared in default on its derivative obligations.
The Company has agreements with certain of its derivative counterparties that contain a provision where if the company fails to maintain its status as a well / adequate capitalized institution, then the Company could be required to post additional collateral.
As of March 31, 2025, the fair value of derivatives in a net liability position, which includes accrued interest but excludes any adjustment for nonperformance risk, related to these agreements was $5,789. If the Company had breached any of these provisions at March 31, 2025, it could have been required to settle its obligations under the agreements at their termination value of $5,789, less the required collateral of $5,240.
29
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 9. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Loan Commitments
The Company is a party to financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of its customers. These financial instruments include commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit. Such commitments involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit risk and interest rate risk in excess of the amount recognized in the balance sheets. The majority of all commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit are variable rate instruments.
The Company’s exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the other party to the financial instrument for commitments to extend credit is represented by the contractual amount of those instruments. The Company uses the same credit policies in making commitments as it does for on-balance sheet instruments. A summary of the Company’s commitments is as follows:
March 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | |||||||
Commitments to extend credit | $ | 363,077 | $ | 401,912 | ||||
Standby letters of credit | 5,795 | 5,901 | ||||||
Total | $ | 368,872 | $ | 407,813 |
Commitments to extend credit are agreements to lend to a customer as long as there is no violation of any condition established in the contract. Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require payment of a fee. Since many of the commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements. The amount of collateral obtained, if deemed necessary by the Company upon extension of credit, is based on management’s credit evaluation of the customer. Collateral held varies, but may include accounts receivable, inventory, property and equipment, residential real estate, and income-producing commercial properties.
Standby letters of credit are conditional commitments issued by the Company to guarantee the performance of a customer to a third party. Those letters of credit are primarily issued to support public and private borrowing arrangements. The credit risk involved in issuing letters of credit is essentially the same as that involved in extending loans to customers. Collateral held varies and is required in instances that the Company deems necessary.
The Company has not been required to perform on any standby letters of credit, and the Company has not incurred any losses on financial standby letters of credit for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and March 31, 2024.
The allowance for credit losses on unfunded commitments as follows:
March 31, 2025 | March 31, 2024 | |||||||
Allowance for credit losses on unfunded commitments at beginning of the period | $ | 1,405 | $ | 1,239 | ||||
Provision for credit losses on unfunded commitments | - | 49 | ||||||
Balance at the end of the period | $ | 1,405 | $ | 1,288 |
Contingencies
In the normal course of business, the Company is involved in various legal proceedings. In the opinion of management, any liability resulting from such proceedings would not have a material effect on the Company’s financial statements.
30
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 10. CONCENTRATIONS OF CREDIT
The Company originates primarily commercial, commercial real estate, residential real estate, and consumer loans to customers in Alabama and Georgia. The ability of the majority of the Company’s customers to honor their contractual loan obligations is dependent on the economy in these areas.
Eighty-five percent of the Company’s loan portfolio is concentrated in real estate. A substantial portion of these loans are secured by real estate in the Company’s primary market area. In addition, a substantial portion of the other real estate owned is located in those same markets. Accordingly, the ultimate collectability of the loan portfolio and the recovery of the carrying amount of the other real estate owned are susceptible to changes in market conditions in the Company’s primary market area. The other concentrations of credit by type of loan are set forth in Note 5.
The Company, according to regulatory restrictions, may not generally extend credit to any single borrower or group of related borrowers on a secured basis in excess of 20% of capital, as defined, or approximately $72,693 or on an unsecured basis in excess of 10% of capital, as defined, or approximately $36,347.
NOTE 11. STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
As of March 31, 2025, the Company had 9,922,180 shares of common stock issued and outstanding and does not have any non-voting shares issued and outstanding.
As of December 31, 2024, the Company had 9,889,260 shares of common stock issued and outstanding and does not have any non-voting shares issued and outstanding.
NOTE 12. REGULATORY MATTERS
The Bank is subject to certain restrictions on the amount of dividends that may be declared without prior regulatory approval. At March 31, 2025, approximately $90,050 of retained earnings was available for dividend declaration without regulatory approval.
The Bank is also subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by the federal and state banking agencies. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory, and possibly additional discretionary actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on the Bank’s financial statements. Under capital adequacy guidelines and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, the Bank must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of its assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. Capital amounts and classification are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings, and other factors.
Quantitative measures established by regulation to ensure capital adequacy require the Bank to maintain minimum amounts and ratios of total capital, Tier 1 capital, and common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets, and of Tier 1 capital to average assets. In addition, the Bank is subject to a capital conservation buffer that requires it to maintain common equity Tier 1 capital of 2.50% above minimum requirements for the common equity Tier 1 ratio, Tier 1 risk-based ratio and total risk-based ratio to avoid limitations on distributions and discretionary bonus payments. The capital conservation buffer is included in the minimum capital requirements in the following tables. Management believes, as of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, that the Bank met all capital adequacy requirements to which it is subject.
As of March 31, 2025, the Company and the Bank believe they are each well capitalized on a consolidated basis for bank regulatory purposes as their respective capital ratios exceed minimum total, Tier 1 and CET1 risk-based capital ratios and Tier 1 leverage capital ratios as set forth in the following table. As a bank holding company with less than $3,000,000 in total consolidated assets, the Company is eligible to be treated as a “small bank holding company” under the Federal Reserve’s Small Bank Holding Company and Savings and Loan Holding Company Policy Statement. As a result, the Company’s capital adequacy is evaluated at the bank level and on a parent-only basis, and it is not subject to consolidated capital standards for regulatory purposes. The ratios set forth below as to the Company are for illustrative purposes in the event it was to become subject to consolidated capital standards for regulatory purposes. The column styled “Required for Capital Adequacy Purposes” includes the 2.50% capital conservation buffer.
31
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 12. REGULATORY MATTERS (Continued)
The Bank is also subject to capital requirements under the FDIC’s prompt corrective action regime. As of March 31, 2025, the Bank was well capitalized under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action.
Community Bank Leverage Ratio Framework
As part of the directive under the Economic Growth Act, in September 2019, the FDIC and other federal bank regulatory agencies approved the Community Bank Leverage Ratio (“CBLR”) framework. This optional framework became effective January 1, 2020, and is available to the Company and the Bank as an alternative to the Basel III risk-based capital framework. The CBLR framework provides for a simple measure of capital adequacy for certain community banking organizations. Specifically, depository institutions and depository institution holding companies that have less than $10,000,000 in total consolidated assets and meet other qualifying criteria, including a Tier 1 leverage ratio of greater than 9.00%, are considered qualifying community banking organizations and are eligible to opt into the CBLR framework, and replace the applicable Basel III risk-based capital requirements. As of March 31, 2025, the Company and the Bank qualify for the CBLR framework. Management does not intend to utilize the CBLR framework.
Actual | Required for Capital Adequacy Purposes | Minimums To Be “Well Capitalized” Under Prompt Corrective Action | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Amount | Ratio | Amount | Ratio | Amount | Ratio | |||||||||||||||||||
As of March 31, 2025 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Tier 1 capital (to average assets) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Company | $ | 255,971 | 9.14 | % | $ | 112,007 | 4.00 | % | $ | - | - | |||||||||||||
Bank | $ | 335,765 | 11.99 | % | $ | 112,007 | 4.00 | % | $ | 140,009 | 5.00 | % | ||||||||||||
CET 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Company | $ | 255,971 | 10.18 | % | $ | 176,051 | 7.00 | % | $ | - | - | |||||||||||||
Bank | $ | 335,765 | 13.35 | % | $ | 176,051 | 7.00 | % | $ | 163,476 | 6.50 | % | ||||||||||||
Tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Company | $ | 255,971 | 10.18 | % | $ | 213,777 | 8.50 | % | $ | - | - | |||||||||||||
Bank | $ | 335,765 | 13.35 | % | $ | 213,777 | 8.50 | % | $ | 201,202 | 8.00 | % | ||||||||||||
Total capital (to risk-weighted assets) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Company | $ | 378,752 | 15.06 | % | $ | 264,077 | 10.50 | % | $ | - | - | |||||||||||||
Bank | $ | 366,046 | 14.55 | % | $ | 264,077 | 10.50 | % | $ | 251,502 | 10.00 | % |
32
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 12. REGULATORY MATTERS (Continued)
Actual | Required for Capital Adequacy Purposes | Minimums To Be “Well Capitalized” Under Prompt Corrective Action | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Amount | Ratio | Amount | Ratio | Amount | Ratio | |||||||||||||||||||
As of December 31, 2024 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Tier 1 capital (to average assets) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Company | $ | 245,711 | 8.67 | % | $ | 113,353 | 4.00 | % | $ | - | - | |||||||||||||
Bank | $ | 324,487 | 11.45 | % | $ | 113,353 | 4.00 | % | $ | 141,691 | 5.00 | % | ||||||||||||
CET 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Company | $ | 245,711 | 9.84 | % | $ | 174,815 | 7.00 | % | $ | - | - | |||||||||||||
Bank | $ | 324,487 | 12.99 | % | $ | 174,815 | 7.00 | % | $ | 162,328 | 6.50 | % | ||||||||||||
Tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Company | $ | 245,711 | 9.84 | % | $ | 212,275 | 8.50 | % | $ | - | - | |||||||||||||
Bank | $ | 324,487 | 12.99 | % | $ | 212,275 | 8.50 | % | $ | 199,788 | 8.00 | % | ||||||||||||
Total capital (to risk-weighted assets) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Company | $ | 367,954 | 14.73 | % | $ | 262,222 | 10.50 | % | $ | - | - | |||||||||||||
Bank | $ | 354,230 | 14.18 | % | $ | 262,222 | 10.50 | % | $ | 249,735 | 10.00 | % |
33
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 13. FAIR VALUE OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
Determination of Fair Value
The Company uses fair value measurements to record fair value adjustments to certain assets and liabilities and to determine fair value disclosures. In accordance with the Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures topic (FASB ASC 820), the fair value of a financial instrument is 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. Fair value is best determined based upon quoted market prices. However, in many instances, there are no quoted market prices for the Company’s various financial instruments. In cases where quoted market prices are not available, fair values are based on estimates using present value or other valuation techniques. Those techniques are significantly affected by the assumptions used, including the discount rate and estimates of future cash flows. Accordingly, the fair value estimates may not be realized in an immediate settlement of the instrument.
The fair value guidance provides a consistent definition of fair value, which focuses on exit price in an orderly transaction (that is, not a forced liquidation or distressed sale) between market participants at the measurement date under current market conditions. If there has been a significant decrease in the volume and level of activity for the asset or liability, a change in valuation technique or the use of multiple valuation techniques may be appropriate. In such instances, determining the price at which willing market participants would transact at the measurement date under current market conditions depends on the facts and circumstances and requires the use of significant judgment. The fair value is a reasonable point within the range that is most representative of fair value under current market conditions.
Fair Value Hierarchy
In accordance with this guidance, the Company groups its financial assets and financial liabilities generally measured at fair value in three levels, based on the markets in which the assets and liabilities are traded and the reliability of the assumptions used to determine fair value.
Level 1 - Valuation is based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the reporting entity has the ability to access at the measurement date. Level 1 assets and liabilities generally include debt and equity securities that are traded in an active exchange market. Valuations are obtained from readily available pricing sources for market transactions involving identical assets or liabilities.
Level 2 - Valuation is based on inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. The valuation may be based on 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 for substantially the full term of the asset or liability.
Level 3 - Valuation is based on unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities. Level 3 assets and liabilities include financial instruments whose value is determined using pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies, or similar techniques, as well as instruments for which determination of fair value requires significant management judgment or estimation.
A financial instrument’s categorization within the valuation hierarchy is based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement.
The following methods and assumptions were used by the Company in estimating fair value disclosures for financial instruments:
Cash and Cash Equivalents: The carrying amounts of cash and due from banks, interest-bearing deposits in banks, and federal funds sold make up cash and cash equivalents. The carrying amount of these short-term instruments approximate fair value.
Securities and Other Equity Securities: Where quoted prices are available in an active market, management classifies the securities within Level 1 of the valuation hierarchy. Level 1 securities include highly liquid government bonds and exchange-traded equities.
34
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 13. FAIR VALUE OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES (Continued)
Fair Value Hierarchy (Continued)
If quoted market prices are not available, management estimates fair values using pricing models and discounted cash flows that consider standard input factors such as observable market data, benchmark yields, interest rate volatilities, broker/dealer quotes, and credit spreads. Examples of such instruments, which would generally be classified within Level 2 of the valuation hierarchy, include GSE obligations, and state and municipal securities. Mortgage-backed securities are included in Level 2 if observable inputs are available. In certain cases where there is limited activity or less transparency around inputs to the valuation, those securities would be classified in Level 3.
Restricted Equity Securities: The carrying amount of restricted equity securities with no readily determinable fair value approximates fair value based on the redemption provisions of the issuers which is cost.
Loans Held for Sale: The carrying amounts of loans held for sale approximates fair value.
Loans: The carrying amount of variable-rate loans that reprice frequently and have no significant change in credit risk approximates fair value. The fair values of fixed rate loans is estimated based on discounted contractual cash flows using interest rates currently being offered for loans with similar terms to borrowers with similar credit quality.
Bank Owned Life Insurance: The carrying amount of bank owned life insurance approximates fair value.
Annuities: The carrying amounts of annuities approximate their fair values.
Deposits: The fair values disclosed for transaction deposits are, by definition, equal to the amount payable on demand at the reporting date (that is, their carrying amounts). Fair values for fixed rate certificates of deposit are estimated using a discounted cash flow calculation that applies market interest rates on comparable instruments to a schedule of aggregated expected monthly maturities on time deposits.
Other Borrowings: The fair value of fixed rate other borrowings is based on discounted contractual cash flows using interest rates currently being offered for borrowings of similar maturities. The fair values of the Company’s variable rate other borrowings approximate their carrying values.
FHLB Advances: The fair value of FHLB advances is based on discounted contractual cash flows using interest rates currently being offered for borrowings of similar maturities.
Subordinated Notes: The carrying amounts of the subordinated notes approximate fair value.
Accrued Interest: The carrying amounts of accrued interest approximate fair value.
Trading Assets and Liabilities: The Company has derivative instruments in the form of interest rate swap agreements accounted for as trading assets and liabilities and carried at fair value. The fair value of these instruments is based on information obtained from a third party financial institution. The Company reflects these instruments within Level 2 of the valuation hierarchy.
Off-Balance Sheet Credit-Related Instruments: Fair values for off-balance sheet, credit-related financial instruments are based on fees currently charged to enter into similar agreements, taking into account the remaining terms of the agreements and the counterparties’ credit standing.
35
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 13. FAIR VALUE OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES (Continued)
Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
The only assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are our securities available for sale and swaps. There were no transfers between levels during the period. Information related to the Company’s assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024 is as follows:
Fair Value Measurements At Reporting Date Using: | ||||||||||||||||
Fair Value | Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | |||||||||||||
March 31, 2025 | ||||||||||||||||
U.S. Treasury securities | $ | 6,950 | $ | 6,950 | $ | - | $ | - | ||||||||
U.S. Government Sponsored Enterprises (GSEs) | 1,723 | - | 1,723 | - | ||||||||||||
State and municipal securities | 40,881 | - | 40,881 | - | ||||||||||||
Corporate debt securities | 14,262 | - | 14,262 | - | ||||||||||||
Asset based securities | 13,800 | - | 13,800 | - | ||||||||||||
Mortgage-backed GSE residential/multifamily and non-GSE | 121,322 | - | 121,322 | - | ||||||||||||
Other equity securities | 2,754 | 2,754 | - | - | ||||||||||||
Interest Rate Products - asset | 5,666 | - | 5,666 | - | ||||||||||||
Interest Rate Products - liabilities | (5,680 | ) | - | (5,680 | ) | - | ||||||||||
December 31, 2024 | ||||||||||||||||
U.S. Treasury securities | $ | 8,809 | $ | 8,809 | $ | - | $ | - | ||||||||
U.S. Government Sponsored Enterprises (GSEs) | 1,830 | - | 1,830 | - | ||||||||||||
State and municipal securities | 41,763 | - | 41,763 | - | ||||||||||||
Corporate debt securities | 14,127 | - | 14,127 | - | ||||||||||||
Asset based securities | 14,492 | - | 14,492 | - | ||||||||||||
Mortgage-backed GSE residential/multifamily and non-GSE | 115,849 | - | 115,849 | - | ||||||||||||
Other equity securities | 3,697 | 3,697 | - | - | ||||||||||||
Interest Rate Products - asset | 6,444 | - | 6,444 | - | ||||||||||||
Interest Rate Products - liabilities | (6,454 | ) | - | (6,454 | ) | - |
Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis
The Company may be required, from time to time, to measure certain assets at fair value on a nonrecurring basis in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. These include assets that are measure at the lower of cost or market that were recognized at fair value below cost at the end of the period. Assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis are included in the table below as of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024:
Fair Value Measurements At Reporting Date Using: | ||||||||||||||||
Fair Value | Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | |||||||||||||
March 31, 2025: | ||||||||||||||||
Individually analyzed loans | $ | 2,857 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 2,857 | ||||||||
Foreclosed assets | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||
Totals | $ | 2,857 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 2,857 |
36
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 13. FAIR VALUE OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES (Continued)
Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis (Continued)
Fair Value Measurements At Reporting Date Using: | ||||||||||||||||
Fair Value | Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | |||||||||||||
December 31, 2024: | ||||||||||||||||
Individually analyzed loans | $ | 2,957 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 2,957 | ||||||||
Foreclosed assets | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||
Totals | $ | 2,957 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 2,957 |
Individually Analyzed Loans
Loans considered individually analyzed under ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments, are loans for which, based on current information and events, it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect all principal and interest payments due in accordance with the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Individually analyzed loans can be measured based on the present value of expected payments using the loan’s original effective rate as the discount rate, the loan’s observable market price, or the fair value of the collateral less estimated selling costs if the loan is collateral dependent.
The fair value of individually analyzed loans are primarily measured based on the value of the collateral securing these loans. Individually analyzed loans are typically classified within level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. Collateral may be real estate and/or business assets including equipment, inventory, and/or accounts receivable. The Company determines the value of the collateral based on independent appraisals performed by qualified licensed appraisers. These appraisals may utilize a single valuation approach or a combination of approaches including comparable sales and the income approach. Appraised values are discounted for costs to sell and may be discounted further based on management’s historical knowledge, changes in market conditions from the date of the most recent appraisal, and/or management’s expertise and knowledge of the customer and the customer’s business. Such discounts by management are subjective and are typically significant unobservable inputs for determining fair value. Individually analyzed loans are reviewed and evaluated on at least a quarterly basis for additional impairment and adjusted accordingly, based on the same factors discussed above.
Foreclosed Assets
Foreclosed assets, consisting of properties/assets obtained through foreclosure or in satisfaction of loans, are initially recorded at fair value less estimated costs to sell upon transfer of the loans to foreclosed assets. Subsequently, foreclosed assets are carried at the lower of carrying value or fair value less estimated costs to sell. Fair values are generally based on third party appraisals of the property/assets and are classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The appraisals are sometimes further discounted based on management’s historical knowledge, and/or changes in market conditions from the date of the most recent appraisal, and/or management’s expertise and knowledge of the customer and the customer’s business. Such discounts are typically significant unobservable inputs for determining fair value. In cases where the carrying amount exceeds the fair value, less estimated costs to sell, a loss is recognized in noninterest expense.
37
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 13. FAIR VALUE OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES (Continued)
Quantitative Disclosures for Level 3 Fair Value Measurements
The Company had no Level 3 assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024.
For Level 3 assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis as of March 31, 2025, the significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurements are presented below.
Carrying Amount | Valuation Technique | Significant Unobservable Input | Weighted Average of Input | |||||||
Nonrecurring: | ||||||||||
Individually analyzed loans | $ | 2,857 | Appraisal | Appraisal discounts (%) | 15-20% | |||||
Foreclosed assets | $ | - | Appraisal | Appraisal discounts (%) | 10-15% |
For Level 3 assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis as of December 31, 2024, the significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurements are presented below.
Carrying Amount | Valuation Technique | Significant Unobservable Input | Weighted Average of Input | |||||||
Nonrecurring: | ||||||||||
Individually analyzed loans | $ | 2,957 | Appraisal | Appraisal discounts (%) | 15-20% | |||||
Foreclosed assets | $ | - | Appraisal | Appraisal discounts (%) | 10-15% |
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The carrying amount and estimated fair value of the Company’s financial instruments were as follows:
March 31, 2025 | ||||||||||||||||
Estimated Fair Value | ||||||||||||||||
Carrying Amount | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | |||||||||||||
Financial assets: | ||||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 229,375 | $ | 229,375 | $ | - | $ | - | ||||||||
Securities available for sale | 198,938 | 6,950 | 191,988 | - | ||||||||||||
Other equity securities | 2,754 | 2,754 | - | - | ||||||||||||
Loans held for sale | 1,236 | - | 1,236 | - | ||||||||||||
Trading assets | 5,666 | - | 5,666 | - | ||||||||||||
Loans, net | 2,231,160 | - | 2,211,438 | 2,857 | ||||||||||||
Bank owned life insurance | 39,698 | - | 39,698 | - | ||||||||||||
Annuities | 16,794 | - | 16,794 | - | ||||||||||||
Accrued interest receivable | 10,432 | - | 10,432 | - | ||||||||||||
Restricted equity securities | 4,408 | - | - | 4,408 | ||||||||||||
Financial liabilities: | ||||||||||||||||
Deposits | $ | 2,425,631 | $ | - | $ | 2,425,421 | $ | - | ||||||||
Trading liabilities | 5,680 | - | 5,680 | - | ||||||||||||
FHLB advances | 20,000 | - | 20,027 | - | ||||||||||||
Other borrowings | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||
Subordinated notes | 91,382 | - | 91,382 | - | ||||||||||||
Accrued interest payable | 1,585 | - | 1,585 | - |
38
SOUTHERN STATES BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
NOTE 13. FAIR VALUE OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES (Continued)
Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Continued)
December 31, 2024 | ||||||||||||||||
Estimated Fair Value | ||||||||||||||||
Carrying Amount | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | |||||||||||||
Financial assets: | ||||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 260,234 | $ | 260,234 | $ | - | $ | - | ||||||||
Securities available for sale | 196,870 | 8,809 | 188,061 | - | ||||||||||||
Other equity securities | 3,697 | 3,697 | - | - | ||||||||||||
Loans held for sale | 404 | - | 404 | - | ||||||||||||
Trading assets | 6,444 | - | 6,444 | - | ||||||||||||
Loans, net | 2,198,231 | - | 2,167,286 | 2,957 | ||||||||||||
Bank owned life insurance | 39,431 | - | 39,431 | - | ||||||||||||
Annuities | 16,772 | - | 16,772 | - | ||||||||||||
Accrued interest receivable | 10,111 | - | 10,111 | - | ||||||||||||
Restricted equity securities | 4,441 | - | - | 4,441 | ||||||||||||
Financial liabilities: | ||||||||||||||||
Deposits | $ | 2,411,297 | $ | - | $ | 2,411,192 | $ | - | ||||||||
Trading liabilities | 6,454 | - | 6,454 | - | ||||||||||||
FHLB advances | 22,000 | - | 22,036 | - | ||||||||||||
Other borrowings | 17,979 | - | 17,979 | - | ||||||||||||
Subordinated notes | 91,245 | - | 91,245 | - | ||||||||||||
Accrued interest payable | 2,172 | - | 2,172 | - |
39