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.

4

 

 

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.

  

5

 

  

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.

 

7

 

 

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.

 

8

 

 

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