Exhibit 2.1
AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER
by and between
COLONY BANKCORP, INC.
and
FIRST RELIANCE BANCSHARES, INC.
Dated as of June 24, 2026
TABLE OF CONTENTS
| ARTICLE I | ||
| THE MERGER | ||
| Section 1.01 | The Merger. | 2 |
| Section 1.02 | Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws; Officers and Directors. | 2 |
| Section 1.03 | Bank Merger. | 2 |
| Section 1.04 | Effective Time; Closing. | 3 |
| Section 1.05 | Additional Actions. | 3 |
| Section 1.06 | Reservation of Right to Revise Structure. | 3 |
| Section 1.07 | Effects of the Merger. | 4 |
| ARTICLE II | ||
| MERGER CONSIDERATION; EXCHANGE PROCEDURES | ||
| Section 2.01 | Merger Consideration. | 4 |
| Section 2.02 | Election Procedures. | 5 |
| Section 2.03 | FSRL Stock-Based Awards. | 8 |
| Section 2.04 | Rights as Shareholders; Stock Transfers. | 9 |
| Section 2.05 | Fractional Shares. | 9 |
| Section 2.06 | Plan of Reorganization. | 10 |
| Section 2.07 | Exchange Procedures. | 10 |
| Section 2.08 | Deposit and Delivery of Merger Consideration. | 10 |
| Section 2.09 | Rights of Certificate Holders after the Effective Time. | 11 |
| Section 2.10 | Anti-Dilution Provisions. | 12 |
| ARTICLE III | ||
| REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF FSRL | ||
| Section 3.01 | Organization and Standing. | 12 |
| Section 3.02 | Capital Stock. | 13 |
| Section 3.03 | Subsidiaries. | 14 |
| Section 3.04 | Corporate Power; Minute Books. | 15 |
| Section 3.05 | Corporate Authority. | 15 |
| Section 3.06 | Regulatory Approvals; No Defaults. | 16 |
| Section 3.07 | Financial Statements; Internal Controls. | 17 |
| Section 3.08 | Regulatory Reports. | 19 |
| Section 3.09 | Absence of Undisclosed Liabilities. | 20 |
| Section 3.10 | Absence of Certain Changes or Events. | 20 |
| Section 3.11 | Legal Proceedings. | 20 |
| Section 3.12 | Compliance with Laws. | 21 |
| Section 3.13 | FSRL Material Contracts; Defaults. | 22 |
| Section 3.14 | Agreements with Regulatory Agencies. | 23 |
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| Section 3.15 | Brokers; Fairness Opinion. | 24 |
| Section 3.16 | Employee Benefit Plans. | 24 |
| Section 3.17 | Labor Matters. | 27 |
| Section 3.18 | Environmental Matters. | 28 |
| Section 3.19 | Tax Matters. | 29 |
| Section 3.20 | Investment Securities. | 31 |
| Section 3.21 | Derivative Transactions. | 32 |
| Section 3.22 | Regulatory Capitalization. | 33 |
| Section 3.23 | Loans; Nonperforming and Classified Assets. | 33 |
| Section 3.24 | Allowance for Credit Losses. | 34 |
| Section 3.25 | Trust Business; Administration of Fiduciary Accounts. | 35 |
| Section 3.26 | Investment Management and Related Activities. | 35 |
| Section 3.27 | Repurchase Agreements. | 35 |
| Section 3.28 | Deposit Insurance; FHLB. | 35 |
| Section 3.29 | Community Reinvestment Act, Anti-money Laundering and Customer Information Security. | 35 |
| Section 3.30 | Transactions with Affiliates. | 36 |
| Section 3.31 | Tangible Properties and Assets. | 36 |
| Section 3.32 | Intellectual Property. | 37 |
| Section 3.33 | Insurance. | 38 |
| Section 3.34 | Antitakeover Provisions. | 38 |
| Section 3.35 | FSRL Information. | 38 |
| Section 3.36 | Transaction Costs. | 39 |
| Section 3.37 | Bank Holding Company. | 39 |
| Section 3.38 | ESOP Trustees. | 39 |
| Section 3.39 | Information Security. | 39 |
| Section 3.40 | Questionable Payments. | 39 |
| Section 3.41 | Mortgage Loan Matters. | 40 |
| Section 3.42 | SBA Matters. | 41 |
| Section 3.43 | No Other Representations or Warranties. | 41 |
| ARTICLE IV | ||
| REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF CBAN | ||
| Section 4.01 | Organization and Standing. | 41 |
| Section 4.02 | Capital Stock. | 42 |
| Section 4.03 | Corporate Power. | 42 |
| Section 4.04 | Corporate Authority. | 42 |
| Section 4.05 | SEC Documents; Financial Statements. | 42 |
| Section 4.06 | Regulatory Reports. | 44 |
| Section 4.07 | Regulatory Approvals; No Defaults. | 44 |
| Section 4.08 | CBAN Information. | 45 |
| Section 4.09 | Absence of Certain Changes or Events. | 45 |
| Section 4.10 | Compliance with Laws. | 45 |
| Section 4.11 | CBAN Regulatory Matters. | 46 |
| Section 4.12 | Brokers. | 47 |
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| Section 4.13 | Legal Proceedings. | 47 |
| Section 4.14 | Tax Matters. | 47 |
| Section 4.15 | Agreements with Regulatory Agencies. | 47 |
| Section 4.16 | Regulatory Capitalization. | 48 |
| Section 4.17 | Community Reinvestment Act, Anti-money Laundering and Customer Information Security. | 48 |
| Section 4.18 | Loans. | 48 |
| Section 4.19 | No Financing | 49 |
| Section 4.20 | Benefits. | 49 |
| Section 4.21 | No Other Representations or Warranties. | 49 |
| ARTICLE V | ||
| COVENANTS | ||
| Section 5.01 | Covenants of FSRL. | 50 |
| Section 5.02 | Covenants of CBAN. | 55 |
| Section 5.03 | Commercially Reasonable Efforts. | 55 |
| Section 5.04 | Shareholder Approvals. | 55 |
| Section 5.05 | Registration Statement; Proxy Statement-Prospectus; NYSE Listing. | 57 |
| Section 5.06 | Regulatory Filings; Consents. | 58 |
| Section 5.07 | Publicity. | 59 |
| Section 5.08 | Access; Current Information. | 59 |
| Section 5.09 | No Solicitation by FSRL; Superior Proposals. | 61 |
| Section 5.10 | Indemnification. | 64 |
| Section 5.11 | Employees; Benefit Plans. | 66 |
| Section 5.12 | Notification of Certain Changes. | 68 |
| Section 5.13 | Transition; Informational Systems Conversion. | 68 |
| Section 5.14 | Financial Statements. | 69 |
| Section 5.15 | Termination and Amendment of Contracts. | 69 |
| Section 5.16 | No Control of Other Party’s Business. | 69 |
| Section 5.17 | Certain Litigation. | 69 |
| Section 5.18 | Director and Officer Resignations. | 70 |
| Section 5.19 | Non-Competition and Non-Disclosure Agreement. | 70 |
| Section 5.20 | Claims Letters. | 70 |
| Section 5.21 | Employment Agreements. | 70 |
| Section 5.22 | Corporate Governance. | 70 |
| Section 5.23 | Coordination. | 71 |
| Section 5.24 | Transactional Expenses. | 72 |
| Section 5.25 | Confidentiality. | 73 |
| Section 5.26 | FINRA Compliance. | 73 |
| Section 5.27 | Tax Matters. | 73 |
| Section 5.28 | Stock Exchange Listing. | 73 |
| Section 5.29 | Takeover Statutes. | 73 |
| Section 5.30 | Dividends. | 74 |
| Section 5.31 | Trust Preferred Securities. | 74 |
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| ARTICLE VI | ||
| CONDITIONS TO CONSUMMATION OF THE MERGER | ||
| Section 6.01 | Conditions to Obligations of the Parties to Effect the Merger. | 74 |
| Section 6.02 | Conditions to Obligations of FSRL. | 75 |
| Section 6.03 | Conditions to Obligations of CBAN. | 76 |
| Section 6.04 | Frustration of Closing Conditions. | 77 |
| ARTICLE VII | ||
| TERMINATION | ||
| Section 7.01 | Termination. | 77 |
| Section 7.02 | Termination Fee | 80 |
| Section 7.03 | Effect of Termination. | 81 |
| ARTICLE VIII | ||
| DEFINITIONS | ||
| Section 8.01 | Definitions. | 81 |
| ARTICLE IX | ||
| MISCELLANEOUS | ||
| Section 9.01 | Survival. | 93 |
| Section 9.02 | Waiver; Amendment. | 93 |
| Section 9.03 | Governing Law; Jurisdiction; Waiver of Right to Trial by Jury. | 93 |
| Section 9.04 | Expenses. | 94 |
| Section 9.05 | Notices. | 94 |
| Section 9.06 | Entire Understanding; No Third-Party Beneficiaries. | 95 |
| Section 9.07 | Severability. | 96 |
| Section 9.08 | Enforcement of the Agreement. | 96 |
| Section 9.09 | Interpretation. | 96 |
| Section 9.10 | Assignment. | 97 |
| Section 9.11 | Confidential Supervisory Information. | 97 |
| Section 9.12 | Counterparts. | 97 |
Exhibit A – Form of FSRL Voting Agreement
Exhibit B – Form of CBAN Voting Agreement
Exhibit C – Form of Bank Plan of Merger and Merger Agreement
Exhibit D – Form of Director Non-Competition and Non-Disclosure Agreement
Exhibit E – Form of Claims Letter
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AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER
This Agreement and Plan of Merger (this “Agreement”) is dated as of June 24, 2026, by and between Colony Bankcorp, Inc., a Georgia corporation (“CBAN”), and First Reliance Bancshares, Inc., a South Carolina corporation (“FSRL” and, together with CBAN, the “Parties” and each a “Party”).
W I T N E S S E T H
WHEREAS, the boards of directors of the Parties have unanimously determined that it is in the best interests of their respective companies and their respective shareholders to consummate the business combination transaction provided for in this Agreement in which FSRL will, on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this Agreement, merge with and into CBAN (the “Merger”), with CBAN continuing as the surviving company in the Merger (sometimes referred to in such capacity as the “Surviving Entity”);
WHEREAS, as a material inducement to and condition of CBAN’s willingness to enter into this Agreement, each executive officer and director of FSRL has entered into a voting agreement (each a “FSRL Voting Agreement” and collectively, the “FSRL Voting Agreements”), substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A, dated as of the date hereof, with CBAN, pursuant to which each such executive officer, director or shareholder has agreed, among other things, to vote all shares of FSRL Stock owned by such executive officer, director or shareholder in favor of the approval of this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby, subject to the terms of the FSRL Voting Agreements;
WHEREAS, each executive officer and director of CBAN has entered into a voting agreement (each a “CBAN Voting Agreement” and collectively, the “CBAN Voting Agreements”), substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B, dated as of the date hereof, with FSRL, pursuant to which each such executive officer or director has agreed, among other things, to vote all shares of CBAN Common Stock owned by such executive officer or director in favor of the transactions contemplated hereby, subject to the terms of the CBAN Voting Agreements;
WHEREAS, the Parties desire to make certain representations, warranties and agreements in connection with the Merger and also to prescribe certain conditions to the Merger; and
WHEREAS, for federal income tax purposes, it is intended that each of the Merger and the Bank Merger qualify as a “reorganization” within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder (the “Code”), and this Agreement is intended to be and is adopted as a “plan of reorganization” for each of the Merger and the Bank Merger for purposes of Sections 354 and 361 of the Code.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises herein contained and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows:
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Article
I
THE MERGER
Section 1.01 The Merger.
Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, in accordance with the Georgia Business Corporation Code (the “GBCC”), at the Effective Time, FSRL shall merge with and into CBAN pursuant to the terms of this Agreement. CBAN shall be the Surviving Entity in the Merger and shall continue its existence as a corporation under the laws of the State of Georgia. Upon the consummation of the Merger, the separate corporate existence of FSRL shall cease.
Section 1.02 Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws; Officers and Directors.
(a) At the Effective Time, the articles of incorporation of CBAN in effect immediately prior to the Effective Time shall be the articles of incorporation of the Surviving Entity until thereafter amended in accordance with applicable Law. The bylaws of CBAN in effect immediately prior to the Effective Time shall be the bylaws of the Surviving Entity until thereafter amended in accordance with applicable Law and the terms of such bylaws.
(b) Subject to Section 5.22, (i) the directors and officers of CBAN in office immediately prior to the Effective Time shall serve as the directors and officers of the Surviving Entity in accordance with the bylaws of the Surviving Entity, and (ii) the directors and officers of Colony Bank in office immediately prior to the Effective Time shall serve as the directors and officers of the Surviving Bank from and after the Effective Time in accordance with the bylaws of the Surviving Bank. Such directors and executive officers shall serve until their resignation, removal or until their successors shall have been elected or appointed and shall have qualified in accordance with applicable Law and the governing documents applicable to the Surviving Entity.
Section 1.03 Bank Merger.
Immediately following the Effective Time, First Reliance Bank, a South Carolina state-chartered bank and a direct wholly-owned subsidiary of FSRL (“First Reliance Bank”), shall be merged (the “Bank Merger”) with and into Colony Bank, a Georgia state-chartered bank and a direct wholly-owned subsidiary of CBAN, in accordance with the provisions of applicable federal and state banking laws and regulations, and Colony Bank shall be the surviving bank (the “Surviving Bank”). The Bank Merger shall have the effects as set forth under applicable federal and state banking laws and regulations, and the board of directors of the Parties have, on the date hereof, caused the board of directors of Colony Bank and First Reliance Bank, respectively, to approve a separate merger agreement (the “Bank Plan of Merger”) in substantially the form attached hereto as Exhibit C, and have caused the Bank Plan of Merger to be executed and delivered on the date of this Agreement. Each of CBAN and FSRL shall also approve the Bank Plan of Merger in their capacities as sole shareholders of Colony Bank and First Reliance Bank, respectively. As provided in the Bank Plan of Merger, the Bank Merger may be abandoned at the election of Colony Bank at any time, whether before or after filings are made for regulatory approval of the Bank Merger, but if the Bank Merger is abandoned for any reason, First Reliance Bank shall continue to operate under its name; provided that prior to any such election, CBAN shall (a) reasonably consult with FSRL and its regulatory counsel and (b) reasonably determine in good faith that such election will not, and would not reasonably be expected to, prevent, delay or impair either Party’s ability to consummate the Merger or the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
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Section 1.04 Effective Time; Closing.
(a) Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, the Parties will make all such filings as may be required to consummate the Merger and the Bank Merger by applicable Laws. The Merger shall become effective as set forth in the articles of merger (the “Articles of Merger”) related to the Merger, which will include the plan of merger (the “Plan of Merger”), that shall be filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Georgia, as provided in the GBCC and with the Secretary of State of the State of South Carolina as provided in the SCBCA, on the Closing Date. The “Effective Time” of the Merger shall be the later of (i) the date and time of filing of the Articles of Merger, or (ii) the date and time when the Merger becomes effective as set forth in the Articles of Merger. Unless otherwise mutually agreed by the Parties, the Effective Time will occur on the first day of the calendar month following the day all of the conditions to the Closing set forth in Article VI (other than conditions to be satisfied at the Closing, which shall be satisfied or waived at the Closing) have been satisfied or waived in accordance with the terms hereof.
(b) The closing of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (the “Closing”) shall take place on the same day as the Effective Time (such date, the “Closing Date”) by electronic means or at such other place as the Parties may mutually agree. At the Closing, there shall be delivered to CBAN and FSRL the certificates and other documents required to be delivered under Article VI.
Section 1.05 Additional Actions.
If, at any time after the Effective Time, either Party shall consider or be advised that any further deeds, documents, assignments or assurances in Law or any other acts are necessary or desirable to carry out the purposes of this Agreement (such Party, the “Requesting Party”), the other Party and its Subsidiaries and their respective current and former officers and directors shall be deemed to have granted to the Requesting Party and its Subsidiaries, and each or any of them, an irrevocable power of attorney to execute and deliver, in such official corporate capacities, all such deeds, assignments or assurances in Law or any other acts as are necessary or desirable to carry out the purposes of this Agreement, and the officers and directors of the Requesting Party and its Subsidiaries, as applicable, are authorized in the name of the other Party and its Subsidiaries or otherwise to take any and all such action.
Section 1.06 Reservation of Right to Revise Structure.
CBAN may at any time and without the approval of FSRL change the method of effecting the business combination contemplated by this Agreement if and to the extent that it reasonably deems such a change to be necessary; provided, however, that no such change shall (a) alter or change the amount of the consideration to be issued to (i) Holders as Merger Consideration or (ii) holders of FSRL Options or FSRL RSUs as currently contemplated in this Agreement, (b) reasonably be expected to materially impede or delay consummation of the Merger, (c) adversely affect the federal income tax treatment of Holders in connection with the Merger, or (d) require submission to or approval of FSRL’s shareholders after the plan of merger set forth in this Agreement has been approved by FSRL’s shareholders. In the event that CBAN elects to make such a change, the Parties agree to cooperate to execute appropriate documents to reflect the change.
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Section 1.07 Effects of the Merger.
At and after the Effective Time, the Merger shall have the effects set forth in the applicable provisions of the GBCC.
Article
II
MERGER CONSIDERATION; EXCHANGE PROCEDURES
Section 2.01 Merger Consideration.
Subject to the provisions of this Agreement, at the Effective Time, automatically by virtue of the Merger and without any action on the part of the Parties or any shareholder of FSRL:
(a) Each share of CBAN Common Stock that is issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time shall remain outstanding following the Effective Time and shall be unchanged by the Merger.
(b) Each share of FSRL Stock (i) held in treasury stock or (ii) owned directly by CBAN, FSRL, or any of their respective Subsidiaries (excluding shares held in the ESOP, in trust accounts, managed accounts and the like for the benefit of customers or shares held as collateral for outstanding debt previously contracted) immediately prior to the Effective Time shall be cancelled and retired at the Effective Time without any conversion thereof, and no payment shall be made with respect thereto (the “FSRL Cancelled Shares”).
(c) Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, all shares of FSRL Stock that are issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time and which are held by a shareholder who did not vote in favor of the Merger (or consent thereto in writing), who has delivered written notice to FSRL of such shareholder’s intent to demand payment for such shares prior to the vote on the Merger, who is entitled to demand and properly demands the fair value of such shares pursuant to, and who complies in all respects with, the provisions of Chapter 13 of the SCBCA, shall not be converted into or be exchangeable for the right to receive the Per Share Merger Consideration (the “Dissenting Shares”), but instead the Holder of such Dissenting Shares (hereinafter called a “Dissenting Shareholder”) shall be entitled to payment of the fair value of such shares in accordance with the applicable provisions of the SCBCA (and at the Effective Time, such Dissenting Shares shall no longer be outstanding and shall automatically be cancelled and shall cease to exist and such holder shall cease to have any rights with respect thereto, except the rights provided for pursuant to the applicable provisions of the SCBCA and this Section 2.01(c)), unless and until such Dissenting Shareholder shall have failed to perfect such holder’s right to receive, or shall have effectively withdrawn or lost rights to demand or receive, the fair value of such shares of FSRL Stock under the applicable provisions of the SCBCA. If any Dissenting Shareholder shall fail to perfect or effectively withdraw or lose such Holder’s dissenter’s rights under the applicable provisions of the SCBCA, or if a court of competent jurisdiction shall determine that such Holder is not entitled to payment, each such Dissenting Share shall be deemed to have been converted into and to have become exchangeable for, the right to receive the Per Share Merger Consideration, without any interest thereon, in accordance with the applicable provisions of this Agreement. FSRL shall give CBAN (i) prompt notice of any written notices to exercise dissenters’ rights in respect of any shares of FSRL Stock, attempted withdrawals of such notices and any other instruments served pursuant to the SCBCA and received by FSRL relating to dissenters’ rights and (ii) the opportunity to participate in negotiations and proceedings with respect to demands for fair value under the SCBCA. FSRL shall not, except with the prior written consent of CBAN (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed), voluntarily make any payment with respect to, or settle, or offer or agree to settle, any such demand for payment. Any portion of the Merger Consideration made available to the Exchange Agent pursuant to this Article II to pay for shares of FSRL Stock for which dissenters’ rights have been perfected shall be returned to CBAN upon demand. If the amount paid to a Dissenting Shareholder exceeds such Dissenting Shareholder’s pro rata portion of the Merger Consideration, such excess amount shall not reduce the Per Share Merger Consideration paid to other Holders.
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(d) Subject to the allocation provisions of this Article II, each share of FSRL Stock (excluding Dissenting Shares and FSRL Cancelled Shares) issued and outstanding at the Effective Time shall cease to be outstanding and shall be converted, in accordance with the terms of this Article II, into and exchanged for the right to receive either:
(i) a cash payment, without interest, in an amount equal to $19.75 (the “Per Share Cash Consideration”); or
(ii) 0.94 (subject to adjustment as provided in Section 7.01(i)) (the “Exchange Ratio”) shares of CBAN Common Stock (the “Per Share Stock Consideration”).
(e) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary and for the avoidance of doubt, the Merger shall not be consummated unless at least 50% of the Merger Consideration shall be in the form of CBAN Common Stock.
Section 2.02 Election Procedures.
(a) Election.
(i) Prior to the Effective Time, CBAN shall appoint an Exchange Agent, which is acceptable to FSRL in its reasonable discretion, for the payment and exchange of the Merger Consideration.
(ii) Holders of record of FSRL Stock may elect to receive either shares of CBAN Common Stock or cash in exchange for their shares of FSRL Stock, provided that the aggregate number of shares of FSRL Stock to receive the Per Share Stock Consideration pursuant to this Section 2.02 shall not exceed eighty percent (80%) of the shares of FSRL Stock outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time (the “Stock Conversion Maximum”); provided, however, the Stock Conversion Maximum is subject to adjustment as provided in Section 7.01(i).
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(iii) An election form (“Election Form”), together with a Letter of Transmittal (as defined in Section 2.07), shall be mailed no less than twenty (20) Business Days prior to the Election Deadline or on such earlier date as CBAN and FSRL shall mutually agree (the “Mailing Date”) to each Holder of record of FSRL Stock as of five (5) Business Days prior to the Mailing Date permitting such Holder, subject to the allocation and election procedures set forth in this Section 2.02, (1) to specify the number of shares of FSRL Stock owned by such Holder with respect to which such Holder desires to receive the Per Share Cash Consideration (a “Cash Election”, and such shares subject to a Cash Election, the “Cash Election Shares”), in accordance with the provisions of Section 2.01(d)(i), (2) to specify the number of shares of FSRL Stock owned by such Holder with respect to which such Holder desires to receive the Per Share Stock Consideration (a “Stock Election” and such shares subject to a Stock Election, the “Stock Election Shares”), in accordance with the provisions of Section 2.01(d)(ii), or (3) to indicate that such record Holder has no preference as to the receipt of cash or CBAN Common Stock for such shares. Holders of record of shares of FSRL Stock who hold such shares as nominees, trustees or in other representative capacities (a “Representative”) may submit multiple Election Forms, provided that each such Election Form covers all the shares of FSRL Stock held by each Representative for a particular beneficial owner. Any shares of FSRL Stock with respect to which the Holder thereof shall not, as of the Election Deadline, have made an election by submission to the Exchange Agent of an effective, properly completed Election Form shall be deemed “Non-Election Shares.” CBAN shall make available one or more Election Forms as may reasonably be requested in writing from time to time by all Persons who become holders (or beneficial owners) of FSRL Stock between the record date for the initial mailing of Election Forms and the close of business on the Business Day prior to the Election Deadline, and FSRL shall provide to the Exchange Agent all information reasonably necessary for it to perform as specified herein.
(iv) The term “Election Deadline” shall mean 5:00 p.m., Eastern time, on the later of (1) the date of the FSRL Meeting and (2) the date that CBAN and FSRL shall agree is as near as practicable to five (5) Business Days prior to the expected Closing Date. An election shall have been properly made only if the Exchange Agent shall have actually received a properly completed Election Form by the Election Deadline accompanied by one (1) or more Certificates (or customary affidavits and indemnification regarding the loss or destruction of such certificates or the guaranteed delivery of such certificates) representing all the shares of FSRL Stock covered by such Election Form; provided, however, that an Election Form submitted by a Representative who holds shares of FSRL Stock in Book-Entry Form need not be accompanied by a Certificate representing the shares of FSRL Stock by such Election Form. Any Election Form may be revoked or changed by the Person submitting such Election Form to the Exchange Agent by written notice to the Exchange Agent only if such notice of revocation or change is actually received by the Exchange Agent at or prior to the Election Deadline. The Certificate or Certificates relating to any revoked Election Form shall be promptly returned without charge to the Person submitting the Election Form to the Exchange Agent. Shares of FSRL Stock held by holders who acquired such shares subsequent to the Election Deadline will be designated Non-Election Shares. In addition, if a Holder of FSRL Stock either (A) does not submit a properly completed Election Form in a timely fashion or (B) revokes its Election Form prior to the Election Deadline and fails to file a new properly completed Election Form before the deadline, such shares shall be designated Non-Election Shares. Subject to the terms of this Agreement and of the Election Form, the Exchange Agent shall have discretion to determine whether any election, revocation or change has been properly or timely made and to disregard immaterial defects in the Election Forms, and any good faith decisions of the Exchange Agent regarding such matters shall be binding and conclusive. Neither CBAN nor the Exchange Agent shall be under any obligation to notify any Person of any defect in an Election Form.
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(b) Allocation. No later than five (5) Business Days after the Effective Time, CBAN shall cause the Exchange Agent to effect the allocation among Holders of FSRL Stock of rights to receive the Per Share Cash Consideration and/or the Per Share Stock Consideration, which shall be effected by the Exchange Agent as follows:
(i) If the aggregate number of shares of FSRL Stock with respect to which Stock Elections shall have been made (the “Stock Election Number”) exceeds the Stock Conversion Maximum, then all Cash Election Shares and all Non-Election Shares of each Holder thereof shall be converted into the right to receive the Per Share Cash Consideration, and the Stock Election Shares of each Holder thereof will be converted into the right to receive (1) the Per Share Stock Consideration in respect of that number of Stock Election Shares equal to the product obtained by multiplying (A) the number of Stock Election Shares held by such Holder by (B) the fraction, the numerator of which is the Stock Conversion Maximum and the denominator of which is the Stock Election Number, and (2) the right to receive the Per Share Cash Consideration in respect of the remainder of such Holder’s Stock Election Shares that were not converted into the right to receive the Per Share Stock Consideration pursuant to clause (1) above.
(ii) If the Stock Election Number is less than the Stock Conversion Maximum (the amount by which the Stock Conversion Maximum exceeds the Stock Election Number being referred to herein as the “Shortfall Number”), then all Stock Election Shares shall be converted into the right to receive the Per Share Stock Consideration and the Non-Election Shares and Cash Election Shares shall be treated in the following manner:
(1) If the Shortfall Number is less than or equal to the number of Non-Election Shares, then all Cash Election Shares shall be converted into the right to receive the Per Share Cash Consideration and the Non-Election Shares of each Holder thereof shall be converted into the right to receive (A) the Per Share Stock Consideration in respect of that number of Non-Election Shares equal to the product obtained by multiplying (x) the number of Non-Election Shares held by such Holder by (y) a fraction, the numerator of which is the Shortfall Number and the denominator of which is the total number of Non-Election Shares, and (B) the right to receive the Per Share Cash Consideration in respect of the remainder of such Holder’s Non-Election Shares that were not converted into the right to receive the Per Share Stock Consideration pursuant to clause (A) above; and
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(2) If the Shortfall Number exceeds the number of Non-Election Shares, then all Non-Election Shares shall be converted into the right to receive the Per Share Stock Consideration and the Cash Election Shares of each Holder thereof shall be converted into the right to receive (A) the Per Share Stock Consideration in respect of that number of Cash Election Shares equal to the product obtained by multiplying (x) the number of Cash Election Shares held by such Holder by (y) a fraction, the numerator of which is the amount by which the Shortfall Number exceeds the total number of Non-Election Shares and the denominator of which is the total number of Cash Election Shares, and (B) the right to receive the Per Share Cash Consideration in respect of the remainder of such Holder’s Cash Election Shares that were not converted into the right to receive the Per Share Stock Consideration pursuant to clause (A) above.
Section 2.03 FSRL Stock-Based Awards.
(a) Immediately prior to, but contingent upon, the Effective Time, each then-outstanding restricted stock unit award granted under any FSRL Stock Plan (a “FSRL RSU”), other than the FSRL RSUs set forth on FSRL Disclosure Schedule 2.03(a) (each, a “Rollover RSU”) shall become fully vested and shall be, as of immediately prior to the Effective Time (but contingent upon the Effective Time), cancelled and converted into the right to receive, at the at the election of the holder and subject to the allocation procedures set forth in Section 2.02(b), the Per Share Cash Consideration or the Per Share Stock Consideration, less the amount of any required withholding Tax, pursuant to Section 2.01(d).
(b) Immediately prior to the Effective Time (but contingent upon the Effective Time), each Rollover RSU shall cease to represent a right with respect to shares of FSRL Stock and shall be assumed by CBAN and converted into a restricted stock unit (each, a “CBAN RSU”) with respect to shares of CBAN Common Stock under CBAN’s 2020 Incentive Plan. The number of CBAN RSUs issuable with respect to each Rollover RSU will equal the product of (i) the number of shares of FSRL Stock underlying such Rollover RSU and (ii) the Exchange Ratio, rounded down to the nearest whole share. The CBAN RSUs issued upon conversion of the Rollover RSUs shall be subject to substantially the same terms and conditions as the Rollover RSUs, including any vesting and acceleration of vesting provisions (the “Vesting Conditions”); provided that CBAN may implement changes that, in the reasonable and good faith determination of CBAN, are appropriate to conform the Rollover RSUs to the CBAN RSUs, so long as such changes do not modify the Vesting Conditions.
(c) Each share of restricted FSRL Common Stock (a “FSRL RSA”) that is outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time shall become fully vested and nonforfeitable and shall be converted automatically into and shall thereafter represent the right to receive, at the election of the Holder and subject to the allocation procedures set forth in Section 2.02(b), the Per Share Cash Consideration or the Per Share Stock Consideration, less the amount of any required withholding Tax, pursuant to Section 2.01(d).
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(d) Immediately prior to, but contingent upon, the Effective Time, each then-outstanding option to purchase FSRL Common Stock granted under any FSRL Stock Plan (each a “FSRL Option”), whether vested or unvested, shall be cancelled and the holder thereof shall be entitled to receive from FSRL immediately prior to the Effective Time an amount in cash, without interest, equal to the product of (i) the total number of shares of FSRL Common Stock subject to such FSRL Option times (ii) the excess, if any, of the Per Share Cash Consideration over the exercise price per share of FSRL Common Stock under such FSRL Option, less applicable Taxes required to be withheld with respect to such payment. No holder of an FSRL Option that has an exercise price per share of FSRL Common Stock that is equal to or greater than the Per Share Cash Consideration shall be entitled to any payment with respect to such cancelled FSRL Option before, on, or after the Effective Time.
(e) Prior to the Effective Time, the board of directors of FSRL (or, if appropriate, any committee thereof administering the FSRL Stock Plans) shall adopt such resolutions or take such other actions, including obtaining any necessary consents or amendments to the applicable award agreements and equity plans, as may be required to effectuate the provisions of this Section 2.03. No later than thirty (30) days subsequent to the Effective Time, CBAN shall prepare and have on file with the SEC an effective registration statement on Form S-8 under the Securities Act with respect to the shares of CBAN Common Stock subject to the CBAN RSUs issued upon conversion of the Rollover RSUs.
Section 2.04 Rights as Shareholders; Stock Transfers.
At the Effective Time, all shares of FSRL Stock, when converted in accordance with Section 2.01, shall no longer be outstanding and shall automatically be cancelled and retired and shall cease to exist, and each Certificate or Book-Entry Share previously evidencing such shares shall thereafter represent only the right to receive for each such share of FSRL Stock, the Per Share Merger Consideration and any cash in lieu of fractional shares of CBAN Common Stock in accordance with this Article II. At the Effective Time, holders of FSRL Stock shall cease to be, and shall have no rights as, shareholders of FSRL, other than the right to receive the Per Share Merger Consideration and cash in lieu of fractional shares of CBAN Common Stock as provided under this Article II. At the Effective Time, the stock transfer books of FSRL shall be closed, and there shall be no registration of transfers on the stock transfer books of FSRL of shares of FSRL Stock.
Section 2.05 Fractional Shares.
Notwithstanding any other provision hereof, no fractional shares of CBAN Common Stock and no certificates or scrip therefor, or other evidence of ownership thereof, will be issued in the Merger. In lieu thereof, CBAN shall pay or cause to be paid to each Holder who would otherwise receive a fractional share of CBAN Common Stock, rounded to the nearest one hundredth of a share, an amount of cash (without interest and rounded to the nearest whole cent) determined by multiplying the fractional share interest in CBAN Common Stock to which such Holder would otherwise be entitled by the Average Closing Price.
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Section 2.06 Plan of Reorganization.
It is intended that the Merger and the Bank Merger shall each qualify as a “reorganization” within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code, and that this Agreement shall constitute a “plan of reorganization” as that term is used in Sections 354 and 361 of the Code for each of the Merger and the Bank Merger.
Section 2.07 Exchange Procedures.
CBAN shall cause as promptly as practicable after the Effective Time, but in no event later than five (5) Business Days after the Closing Date, the Exchange Agent to mail or otherwise caused to be delivered to each Holder who has not previously surrendered such Certificate or Certificates or Book-Entry Shares, appropriate and customary transmittal materials, which shall specify that delivery shall be effected, and risk of loss and title to the Certificates or Book-Entry Shares shall pass, only upon delivery of the Certificates or Book-Entry Shares to the Exchange Agent, as well as instructions for use in effecting the surrender of the Certificates or Book-Entry Shares in exchange for the Merger Consideration (including cash in lieu of fractional shares) as provided for in this Agreement (the “Letter of Transmittal”).
Section 2.08 Deposit and Delivery of Merger Consideration.
(a) Prior to the Effective Time, CBAN shall (i) deposit, or shall cause to be deposited, with the Exchange Agent stock certificates representing the number of shares of CBAN Common Stock and cash sufficient to deliver the Merger Consideration (together with, to the extent then determinable, any cash payable in lieu of fractional shares pursuant to Section 2.05, and if applicable, cash in an aggregate amount sufficient to make the appropriate payment to the Holders of Dissenting Shares) (collectively, the “Exchange Fund”), and (ii) instruct the Exchange Agent to pay such Merger Consideration and cash in lieu of fractional shares in accordance with this Agreement as promptly as practicable after the Effective Time and conditioned upon receipt of a properly completed Letter of Transmittal. The Exchange Agent and CBAN, as the case may be, shall not be obligated to deliver the Merger Consideration to a Holder to which such Holder would otherwise be entitled as a result of the Merger until such Holder surrenders the Certificates or Book-Entry Shares representing the shares of FSRL Stock for exchange as provided in this Article II, or, an appropriate affidavit of loss and indemnity agreement and/or a bond in such amount as may be reasonably required in each case by CBAN or the Exchange Agent.
(b) Any portion of the Exchange Fund that remains unclaimed by the shareholders of FSRL for one (1) year after the Effective Time (as well as any interest or proceeds from any investment thereof) shall be delivered by the Exchange Agent to CBAN. Any shareholders of FSRL who have not theretofore complied with this Section 2.08 shall thereafter look only to CBAN for the Merger Consideration, any cash in lieu of fractional shares of FSRL Stock to be issued or paid in consideration therefor, and any dividends or distributions to which such Holder is entitled in respect of each share of FSRL Stock such shareholder held immediately prior to the Effective Time, as determined pursuant to this Agreement, in each case without any interest thereon. If outstanding Certificates or Book-Entry Shares for shares of FSRL Stock are not surrendered or the payment for them is not claimed prior to the date on which such shares of CBAN Common Stock or cash would otherwise escheat to or become the property of any governmental unit or agency, the unclaimed items shall, to the extent permitted by the law of abandoned property and any other applicable Law, become the property of CBAN (and to the extent not in its possession shall be delivered to it), free and clear of all claims or interest of any Person previously entitled to such property. Neither the Exchange Agent nor either Party shall be liable to any Holder represented by any Certificate or Book-Entry Share for any amounts delivered to a public official pursuant to applicable abandoned property, escheat or similar Laws. CBAN and the Exchange Agent shall be entitled to rely upon the stock transfer books of FSRL to establish the identity of those Persons entitled to receive the Merger Consideration specified in this Agreement, which books shall be conclusive with respect thereto. In the event of a dispute with respect to ownership of any shares of FSRL Stock represented by any Certificate or Book-Entry Share, CBAN and the Exchange Agent shall be entitled to tender to the custody of any court of competent jurisdiction any Per Share Merger Consideration represented by such Certificate or Book-Entry Share and file legal proceedings interpleading all parties to such dispute, and will thereafter be relieved with respect to any claims thereto.
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(c) CBAN or the Exchange Agent, as applicable, shall be entitled to deduct and withhold from any amounts otherwise payable pursuant to this Agreement to any Holder such amounts as CBAN is required to deduct and withhold under applicable Law. Any amounts so deducted and withheld shall be remitted to the appropriate Governmental Authority and upon such remittance shall be treated for all purposes of this Agreement as having been paid to the Holder in respect of which such deduction and withholding was made by CBAN or the Exchange Agent, as applicable.
Section 2.09 Rights of Certificate Holders after the Effective Time.
(a) All shares of CBAN Common Stock to be issued pursuant to the Merger shall be deemed issued and outstanding as of the Effective Time and if ever a dividend or other distribution is declared by CBAN in respect of the CBAN Common Stock, the record date for which is at or after the Effective Time, that declaration shall include dividends or other distributions in respect of all shares of CBAN Common Stock issuable pursuant to this Agreement. No dividends or other distributions in respect of the CBAN Common Stock shall be paid to any Holder of any unsurrendered Certificate or Book-Entry Share until such Certificate or Book-Entry Share is surrendered for exchange in accordance with this Article II. Subject to the effect of applicable Laws, following surrender of any such Certificate or Book-Entry Share, there shall be issued and/or paid to the Holder of the certificates representing whole shares of CBAN Common Stock issued in exchange therefor, without interest, (i) at the time of such surrender, the dividends or other distributions with a record date after the Effective Time theretofore payable with respect to such whole shares of CBAN Common Stock and not paid and (ii) at the appropriate payment date, the dividends or other distributions payable with respect to such whole shares of CBAN Common Stock with a record date after the Effective Time but with a payment date subsequent to surrender. For the avoidance of doubt, Holders shall not have any right to participate in any dividends or other distributions declared by CBAN in respect of the CBAN Common Stock if the record date of such dividend or distribution is prior to the Effective Time.
(b) In the event of a transfer of ownership of a Certificate representing FSRL Stock that is not registered in the stock transfer records of FSRL, the proper amount of cash and/or shares of CBAN Common Stock shall be paid or issued in exchange therefor to a person other than the person in whose name the Certificate so surrendered is registered if the Certificate formerly representing such FSRL Stock shall be properly endorsed or otherwise be in proper form for transfer and the person requesting such payment or issuance shall pay any transfer or other similar Taxes required by reason of the payment or issuance to a person other than the registered Holder of the Certificate or establish to the satisfaction of CBAN that the Tax has been paid or is not applicable.
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Section 2.10 Anti-Dilution Provisions.
If the number of shares of CBAN Common Stock or FSRL Stock issued and outstanding prior to the Effective Time shall be increased or decreased, or changed into or exchanged for a different number of kind of shares or securities, in any such case as a result of a stock split, reverse stock split, stock combination, stock dividend, reclassification or similar transaction, or there shall be any extraordinary dividend or distribution with respect to such stock, and the record date therefor shall be prior to the Effective Time, an appropriate and proportionate adjustment shall be made to the Merger Consideration to give holders of FSRL Stock the same economic effect as contemplated by this Agreement prior to such event. For the avoidance of doubt, no adjustment shall be made with regard to CBAN Common Stock if (i) CBAN issues additional shares of CBAN Common Stock and receives consideration for such shares (including, without limitation, upon the exercise of outstanding stock options or other equity awards) or (ii) CBAN issues employee or director stock grants or similar equity awards pursuant to a CBAN benefit plan.
Article
III
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF FSRL
Except as set forth in the disclosure schedule delivered by FSRL to CBAN prior to or concurrently with the execution of this Agreement with respect to each such Section below (the “FSRL Disclosure Schedule”); provided, that (a) the mere inclusion of an item in the FSRL Disclosure Schedule as an exception to a representation or warranty shall not be deemed an admission by FSRL that such item represents a material exception or fact, event or circumstance or that such item is reasonably likely to result in a Material Adverse Effect on FSRL and (b) any disclosures made with respect to a section of Article III shall be deemed to qualify (i) any other section of Article III specifically referenced or cross-referenced and (ii) other sections of Article III to the extent it is reasonably apparent on its face (notwithstanding the absence of a specific cross reference) from a reading of the disclosure that such disclosure applies to such other sections, FSRL hereby represents and warrants to CBAN as follows:
Section 3.01 Organization and Standing.
Each of FSRL and its Subsidiaries is (a) an entity duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its incorporation or formation and (b) is duly licensed or qualified to do business and in good standing in each jurisdiction where its ownership or leasing of property or the conduct of its business requires such qualification, except where the failure to be so licensed or qualified has not had, and is not reasonably likely to have, a Material Adverse Effect with respect to FSRL. A complete and accurate list of all such jurisdictions described in (a) and (b) is set forth in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.01.
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Section 3.02 Capital Stock.
(a) The authorized capital stock of FSRL consists of 20,000,000 shares of FSRL Common Stock and 10,000,000 shares of FSRL Preferred Stock. As of the date hereof, there are 7,896,292 shares of FSRL Common Stock issued and outstanding (including 110,329 shares of FSRL RSAs) and 51,132 shares of FSRL Preferred Stock issued and outstanding. As of the date hereof, there are 321,465 shares of FSRL Common Stock subject to outstanding FSRL RSUs and FSRL Options to acquire 100,000 shares of FSRL Common Stock are outstanding. There are no shares of FSRL Stock held by any of FSRL’s Subsidiaries. There are no bonds, debentures, notes or other indebtedness of FSRL having the right to vote on any matters on which shareholders of FSRL may vote. Except as set forth on FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.02(a), no trust preferred securities or subordinated debt securities of FSRL are issued or outstanding.
(b) FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.02(b) sets forth, as of the date hereof, the name and address, as reflected on the books and records of FSRL, of each Holder, and the number and type of shares of FSRL Stock held by each such Holder. The issued and outstanding shares of FSRL Stock are duly authorized, validly issued, fully paid, non-assessable and have not been issued in violation of nor are they subject to preemptive rights of any FSRL shareholder. All shares of FSRL’s capital stock issued and outstanding have been issued in compliance with and not in violation of any applicable federal or state securities Laws.
(c) FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.02(c) sets forth, as of the date hereof, for each grant or award of FSRL RSAs, FSRL RSUs or FSRL Options, the (i) name of the grantee, (ii) date of the grant, (iii) vesting schedule and vesting status, (iv) number of shares of FSRL Common Stock, or any other security of FSRL, subject to such award, (v) for each FSRL Option, the exercise price per share underlying such FSRL Option and the expiration date, and (vi) the FSRL Stock Plan under which such award was granted. Each FSRL Option, FSRL RSU, and FSRL RSA is and has been at all times exempt from, or in compliance with, Section 409A of the Code and qualifies for the tax treatment afforded thereto in FSRL’s Tax Returns. Each grant of FSRL RSUs, FSRL RSAs or FSRL Options (A) was appropriately authorized or ratified by the board of directors of FSRL or the compensation committee thereof as of a date no later than the date on which the grant of such FSRL RSA, FSRL RSU or FSRL Option was by its terms to be effective by all necessary corporate action, (B) was made in accordance with the terms of the FSRL Stock Plans and any applicable Law (including valid exemptions from registration under applicable securities Laws) and regulatory rules or requirements; and (C) for FSRL Options, has been granted with an exercise price equal to or greater than the fair market value (within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code) of a share of FSRL Common Stock on the date of grant. There are no outstanding shares of capital stock of any class, or any options, warrants or other similar rights, convertible or exchangeable securities, “phantom stock” rights, stock appreciation rights, stock based performance units, agreements, arrangements, commitments or understandings to which FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries is a party, whether or not in writing, of any character relating to the issued or unissued capital stock or other securities of FSRL or any of FSRL’s Subsidiaries or obligating FSRL or any of FSRL’s Subsidiaries to issue (whether upon conversion, exchange or otherwise) or sell any share of capital stock of, or other equity interests in or other securities of, FSRL or any of FSRL’s Subsidiaries other than those listed in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.02(c). There are no obligations, contingent or otherwise, of FSRL or any of FSRL’s Subsidiaries to repurchase, redeem or otherwise acquire any shares of FSRL Stock or capital stock of any of FSRL’s Subsidiaries or any other securities of FSRL or any of FSRL’s Subsidiaries or to provide funds to or make any investment (in the form of a loan, capital contribution or otherwise) in any such Subsidiary or any other entity. Except for the FSRL Voting Agreements, there are no agreements, arrangements or other understandings with respect to the voting of FSRL’s capital stock and there are no agreements or arrangements under which FSRL is obligated to register the sale of any of its securities under the Securities Act.
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(d) FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.02(d) sets forth a list of all repurchases by FSRL of FSRL Stock since January 1, 2023, including the date of such repurchase, the number, class, and series of the shares repurchased, and the price at which FSRL executed such repurchase. FSRL conducted all such repurchases were conducted in material compliance with applicable Laws. To the Knowledge of FSRL, all Affiliates of FSRL have, since January 1, 2023, conducted purchases and sales of FSRL in material compliance with applicable Laws.
(e) FSRL is not a party to any agreement that provides holders of FSRL Stock with rights as holders of FSRL Stock that are in addition to those provided by FSRL’s articles of incorporation, FSRL’s bylaws, or by applicable Law.
Section 3.03 Subsidiaries.
(a) FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.03(a) sets forth a complete and accurate list of all Subsidiaries of FSRL, including the jurisdiction of organization and all jurisdictions in which any such entity is qualified to do business and the number of shares or other equity interests in such Subsidiary held by FSRL. Except as set forth in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.03(a), (i) FSRL owns, directly or indirectly, all of the issued and outstanding equity securities of each FSRL Subsidiary, (ii) no equity securities of any of FSRL’s Subsidiaries are or may become required to be issued (other than to FSRL) by reason of any contractual right or otherwise, (iii) there are no contracts, commitments, understandings or arrangements by which any of such Subsidiaries is or may be bound to sell or otherwise transfer any of its equity securities (other than to FSRL or a wholly-owned Subsidiary of FSRL), (iv) there are no contracts, commitments, understandings or arrangements relating to FSRL’s rights to vote or to dispose of such securities, (v) all of the equity securities of each such Subsidiary held by FSRL, directly or indirectly, are validly issued, fully paid, non-assessable and are not subject to preemptive or similar rights, and (vi) all of the equity securities of each Subsidiary that is owned, directly or indirectly, by FSRL or any Subsidiary thereof, are free and clear of all Liens, other than restrictions on transfer under applicable securities or banking Laws. There are no material restrictions on the ability of any Subsidiary of FSRL to pay dividends or make distributions to FSRL, except for restrictions generally applicable to similarly regulated entities.
(b) First Reliance Capital Trust I is a Subsidiary of FSRL, the common securities of which are wholly owned by FSRL, formed for the purpose of issuing “trust preferred securities.” The proceeds from the sale of the securities and the issuance of the capital securities by First Reliance Capital Trust I were invested in Fixed/Floating Junior Subordinated Deferrable Interest Debentures issued by FSRL (the “FSRL Junior Subordinated Debt”), which are the sole assets of such trust. FSRL has performed all the obligations required to be performed by it and is not in default under the terms of the FSRL Junior Subordinated Debt or the trust preferred securities and agreements related thereto. The FSRL Junior Subordinated Debt (i) is not convertible into FSRL Stock, (ii) does not carry voting rights with respect to any FSRL Stock and (iii) does not contain dividend limitation provisions upon FSRL Stock except in the event of default or in the event of deferral of the payments due thereon. Except as set forth in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.03(b), neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has any trust preferred securities or other similar securities outstanding.
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(c) Neither FSRL nor any of FSRL’s Subsidiaries owns any stock or equity interest in any depository institution (as defined in 12 U.S.C. Section 1813(c)(1)) other than First Reliance Bank. Except as set forth in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.03(c), neither FSRL nor any of FSRL’s Subsidiaries beneficially owns, directly or indirectly (other than in a bona fide fiduciary capacity or in satisfaction of a debt previously contracted), any equity securities or similar interests of any Person, or any interest in a partnership or joint venture of any kind.
Section 3.04 Corporate Power; Minute Books.
(a) FSRL and each of its Subsidiaries has the corporate or similar power and authority to carry on its business as it is now being conducted and to own all of its properties and assets; and FSRL has the corporate power and authority to execute, deliver and perform its obligations under this Agreement and to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby, subject to receipt of all necessary approvals of Governmental Authorities, the Regulatory Approvals and the Requisite FSRL Shareholder Approval.
(b) FSRL has made available to CBAN a complete and correct copy of its articles of incorporation and bylaws or equivalent organizational documents, each as amended to date, of FSRL and each of its Subsidiaries, the minute books of FSRL and each of its Subsidiaries, and the stock ledgers and stock transfer books of FSRL and each of its Subsidiaries. Neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries is in violation of any of the terms of its articles of incorporation, bylaws or equivalent organizational documents. The minute books of FSRL and each of its Subsidiaries contain records of all meetings held by, and all other corporate or similar actions of, their respective shareholders and boards of directors (including committees of their respective boards of directors) or other governing bodies, which records are complete and accurate in all material respects. The stock ledgers and the stock transfer books of FSRL and each of its Subsidiaries contain complete and accurate records of the ownership of the equity securities of FSRL and each of its Subsidiaries.
Section 3.05 Corporate Authority.
Subject only to the receipt of the Requisite FSRL Shareholder Approval at the FSRL Meeting, this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby have been authorized by all necessary corporate action of FSRL and the board of directors of FSRL on or prior to the date hereof. The board of directors of FSRL has determined that the Merger and the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement are fair to, and in the best interests of, FSRL and its shareholders and has resolved to recommend that FSRL’s shareholders approve and adopt this Agreement and direct that this Agreement be submitted to FSRL’s shareholders for approval at a meeting of the shareholders. Except for the receipt of the Requisite FSRL Shareholder Approval in accordance with the SCBCA and FSRL’s articles of incorporation and bylaws, no other vote or action of the shareholders of FSRL is required by Law, the articles of incorporation or bylaws of FSRL or otherwise to approve this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby. To the Knowledge of FSRL, there is no shareholder holding 5% or more of the outstanding shares of FSRL Common Stock who intends to vote against the approval of this Agreement. FSRL has duly executed and delivered this Agreement and, assuming due authorization, execution and delivery by CBAN, this Agreement is a valid and legally binding obligation of FSRL, enforceable in accordance with its terms (except to the extent that validity and enforceability may be limited by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium, fraudulent transfer or similar Laws affecting the enforcement of creditors’ rights generally or by general principles of equity or by principles of public policy (the “Enforceability Exception”)).
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Section 3.06 Regulatory Approvals; No Defaults.
(a) No consents or approvals of, or waivers by, or filings or registrations with, any Governmental Authority are required to be made or obtained by FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries in connection with the execution, delivery or performance by FSRL of this Agreement or to consummate the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, except as may be required for (i) filings of applications and notices with, and receipt of consents, authorizations, approvals, exemptions or non-objections from the SEC, NYSE, state securities authorities, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc., applicable securities, commodities and futures exchanges, and other industry self-regulatory organizations (each, an “SRO”), (ii) filings of applications or notices with, and consents, approvals or waivers by the FRB, the FDIC, the Georgia Department of Banking and Finance, the South Carolina Office of the Commissioner of Banking and other banking, regulatory, self-regulatory or enforcement authorities or any courts, administrative agencies or commissions or other Governmental Authorities and approval of or non-objection to such applications, filings and notices (taken together with the items listed in clause (i), the “Regulatory Approvals”), (iii) the filing by CBAN with the SEC of the Proxy Statement-Prospectus and the Registration Statement and declaration of effectiveness of the Registration Statement, (iv) the filing of the Articles of Merger contemplated by Section 1.04(a) and the filing of documents with the Secretary of State of the State of Georgia, the Secretary of State of the State of South Carolina or other applicable Governmental Authorities to cause the Bank Merger to become effective and (v) such filings and approvals as are required to be made or obtained under the securities or “Blue Sky” laws of various states in connection with the issuance of the shares of CBAN Common Stock pursuant to this Agreement (the “CBAN Common Stock Issuance”) and approval of listing of such CBAN Common Stock on the NYSE. Subject to the receipt of the approvals referred to in the preceding sentence, the Requisite FSRL Shareholder Approval and as set forth on FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.06(a), the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby by FSRL do not and will not (A) constitute a breach or violation of, or a default under, the articles of incorporation, bylaws or similar governing documents of FSRL or any of its respective Subsidiaries, (B) violate any statute, code, ordinance, rule, regulation, judgment, order, writ, decree or injunction applicable to FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries, or any of their respective properties or assets, (C) conflict with, result in a breach or violation of any provision of, or the loss of any benefit under, or a default (or an event which, with or without notice or lapse of time, or both, would constitute a default) under, result in the creation of any Lien under, result in a right of termination or the acceleration of any right or obligation (which, in each case, would have a material impact on FSRL or could reasonably be expected to result in a financial obligation or penalty in excess of $50,000) under any permit, license, credit agreement, indenture, loan, note, bond, mortgage, reciprocal easement agreement, lease, instrument, concession, contract, franchise, agreement or other instrument or obligation of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries or to which FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries, or their respective properties or assets is subject or bound, or (D) require the consent or approval of any third party or Governmental Authority under any such Law, rule or regulation or any judgment, decree, order, permit, license, credit agreement, indenture, loan, note, bond, mortgage, reciprocal easement agreement, lease, instrument, concession, contract, franchise, agreement or other instrument or obligation that would have a material impact on FSRL or result in a material financial penalty to FSRL.
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(b) As of the date hereof, FSRL has no Knowledge of any reason (i) why the Regulatory Approvals referred to in Section 6.01(b) will not be received in customary time frames from the applicable Governmental Authorities having jurisdiction over the transactions contemplated by this Agreement or (ii) why any Burdensome Condition would be imposed.
Section 3.07 Financial Statements; Internal Controls.
(a) FSRL has previously delivered or made available to CBAN copies of FSRL’s (i) audited consolidated financial statements (including the related notes and schedules thereto) as of and for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, accompanied by the unqualified audit reports of Elliott Davis, LLC, independent registered accountants (collectively, the “Audited Financial Statements”) and (ii) unaudited interim consolidated financial statements (including any related notes and the schedules thereto) for the three (3) months ended March 31, 2026 (the “Unaudited Financial Statements” and collectively with the Audited Financial Statements, the “Financial Statements”). The Financial Statements (including any related notes and schedules thereto) are accurate and complete in all material respects and fairly present in all material respects the financial condition and the results of operations, changes in shareholders’ equity, and cash flows of FSRL and its consolidated Subsidiaries as of the respective dates of and for the periods referred to in such financial statements, all in accordance with GAAP, consistently applied, subject, in the case of the Unaudited Financial Statements, to (A) the absence of consolidated statements of changes in stockholders’ equity, consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss), and consolidated statements of cash flow, (B) normal, recurring year-end adjustments (the effect of which has not had, and would not reasonably be expected to have, individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect with respect to FSRL), and (C) the absence of notes and schedules (that, if presented, would not differ materially from those included in the Audited Financial Statements). No financial statements of any entity or enterprise other than FSRL’s Subsidiaries are required by GAAP to be included in the consolidated financial statements of FSRL. The audits of FSRL have been conducted in accordance with GAAP. Since December 31, 2023, neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has any liabilities or obligations of a nature that would be required by GAAP to be set forth on its consolidated balance sheet or in the notes thereto except for liabilities reflected or reserved against in the Financial Statements and current liabilities incurred in the Ordinary Course of Business since December 31, 2023. True, correct and complete copies of the Financial Statements are set forth in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.07(a). The books and records of FSRL and its Subsidiaries have been, and are being, maintained in all material respects in accordance with GAAP and applicable Law and accurately reflect in all material respects the transactions and dispositions of the assets of FSRL and its Subsidiaries.
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(b) The financial statements contained in the Consolidated Reports of Condition and Income (the “Call Reports”) of First Reliance Bank for the periods ended on or after December 31, 2023, (i) are true, accurate and complete in all material respects, (ii) have been prepared in accordance with GAAP and regulatory accounting principles consistently applied, except as may be otherwise indicated in the notes thereto and except for the omission of footnotes, (iii) have been filed on a timely basis, and (iv) fairly present in all material respects the financial condition of First Reliance Bank as of the respective dates set forth therein and the results of operations and stockholders’ equity for the respective periods set forth therein, subject to year-end adjustments, in compliance with the rules and regulations of applicable federal banking authorities. The financial statements contained in the Call Reports of First Reliance Bank to be prepared after the date of this Agreement and prior to the Closing (A) will be true, accurate and complete in all material respects, (B) will have been prepared in accordance with GAAP and regulatory accounting principles consistently applied, except as may be otherwise indicated in the notes thereto and except for the omission of footnotes, and (C) will fairly present in all material respects the financial condition of First Reliance Bank as of the respective dates set forth therein and the results of operations and stockholders’ equity of First Reliance Bank for the respective periods set forth therein, subject to year-end adjustments, in compliance with the rules and regulations of applicable federal banking authorities.
(c) The records, systems, controls, data and information of FSRL and its Subsidiaries are recorded, stored, maintained and operated under means (including any electronic, mechanical or photographic process, whether computerized or not) that are under the exclusive ownership and direct control of FSRL or its Subsidiaries or accountants (including all means of access thereto and therefrom). FSRL and its Subsidiaries have devised and maintain a system of internal accounting controls sufficient to provide reasonable assurances regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP, and those internal accounting controls are sufficient to provide reasonable assurance that (i) transactions are recorded with its management’s general or specific authorizations and (ii) transactions are recorded in conformity with GAAP and applicable Law. None of FSRL, its Subsidiaries or any director, officer, employee, agent or other Person acting behalf of FSRL or any of FSRL’s Subsidiaries, has made any fraudulent entry on the books or records of FSRL or any of FSRL’s Subsidiaries. Neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries, nor any director, senior executive officer, or auditor independent accountant of FSRL or its Subsidiaries, has received written notice or otherwise obtained actual knowledge of any material weakness regarding the accounting or auditing practices, procedures or methods of FSRL or any of FSRL’s Subsidiaries or their respective internal accounting controls.
(d) FSRL has disclosed based on its most recent evaluations, to its outside auditors and the audit committee of the board of directors of FSRL (i) all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect FSRL’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial data and (ii) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in FSRL’s internal control over financial reporting.
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(e) Except as set forth in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.07(e), since December 31, 2023, (x) neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries nor, to FSRL’s Knowledge, any director, officer, employee, auditor, accountant or representative of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries has received, or otherwise had or obtained Knowledge of, any material complaint, allegation, assertion or claim, whether written or oral, regarding the integrity of the Financial Statements, any financial statements of any Subsidiary of FSRL, including the Call Reports, the accounting or auditing practices, procedures, methodologies or methods of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries or their respective internal accounting controls, including any material complaint, allegation, assertion or claim that FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries has engaged in questionable accounting or auditing practices, and (y) no attorney representing FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries, whether or not employed by FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries, has reported evidence of a material violation of securities Laws, breach of fiduciary duties or similar violation by FSRL or any of its officers, directors, employees, or agents to the board of directors of FSRL or any committee of the board of directors or, to FSRL’s Knowledge, to any director or officer of FSRL. To FSRL’s Knowledge, there have been no instances of fraud by FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries, whether or not material.
(f) The most recent Financial Statements as of the date hereof reflect an adequate reserve, in accordance with GAAP, for all Taxes payable by FSRL and its Subsidiaries for all taxable periods through the date of such Financial Statements. Since December 31, 2023, neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has incurred any liability for Taxes arising from extraordinary gains or losses, as that term is used in GAAP, outside the Ordinary Course of Business. Except for (i) those liabilities that are fully reflected or reserved for in the Financial Statements, (ii) liabilities or obligations incurred in the Ordinary Course of Business since December 31, 2023 in amounts consistent with past practice, (iii) liabilities that have been discharged or paid in full before the Closing Date; or (iv) liabilities or obligations incurred directly as a result of this Agreement, neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has incurred any material liability of any nature whatsoever (whether absolute, accrued or contingent or otherwise and whether due or to become due), and there is no existing condition, situation or set of circumstances that would reasonably be expected to result in such a liability, other than pursuant to or as contemplated by this Agreement or that, either alone or when combined with all other liabilities of a type not described in clause (i)-(iv), has had, or would be reasonably expected to have, a Material Adverse Effect with respect to FSRL.
(g) The Financial Statements to be prepared by FSRL after the date of this Agreement and prior to the Closing (i) will be true, accurate and complete in all material respects, (ii) will be prepared from, and in accordance with, the books and records of FSRL and its Subsidiaries, (iii) will be prepared in accordance with GAAP, consistently applied and (iv) will fairly present in all material respects the consolidated financial condition, results of operations, changes in shareholders’ equity and cash flows of FSRL and its Subsidiaries as of the respective dates and for the respective periods covered thereby, subject to normal year-end adjustments and the absence of footnotes in the case of unaudited interim financial statements.
(h) The independent registered public accounting firm that audited the Annual Financial Statements is, and has been throughout the periods covered by such financial statements, “independent” within the meaning of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X. As of the date hereof, such accounting firm has not resigned or been dismissed as a result of or in connection with any disagreement with FSRL on any matter of accounting principles or practices, financial statement disclosure or auditing scope or procedure.
Section 3.08 Regulatory Reports.
Since January 1, 2023, FSRL and its Subsidiaries have timely filed with the FRB, the FDIC, any SRO and any other applicable Governmental Authority, in correct form, the material reports, registration statements and other documents required to be filed under applicable Laws and regulations and have paid all fees and assessments due and payable in connection therewith, and such reports were complete and accurate and in compliance in all material respects with the requirements of applicable Laws and regulations. Other than normal examinations conducted by a Governmental Authority in the Ordinary Course of Business, no Governmental Authority has notified FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries that it has initiated any proceeding or, to the Knowledge of FSRL, threatened an investigation into the business or operations of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries since January 1, 2023. Subject to Section 9.11, (i) there is no material and unresolved violation, criticism or exception by any Governmental Authority with respect to any report or statement relating to any examinations or inspections of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries, and (ii) there have been no formal or informal inquiries by, or disagreements or disputes with, any Governmental Authority with respect to the business, operations, policies or procedures of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries since January 1, 2023.
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Section 3.09 Absence of Undisclosed Liabilities.
Neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has any material liability or obligation (whether absolute, accrued, contingent or otherwise), except for (a) those liabilities that are reflected or reserved against on the Financial Statements (including any notes thereto), (b) those liabilities incurred in the Ordinary Course of Business consistent with past practice from March 31, 2026 through the date of this Agreement, (c) those liabilities incurred in connection with this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby, and (d) those liabilities and obligations, if any, set forth on FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.09.
Section 3.10 Absence of Certain Changes or Events.
Except as set forth in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.10, the Financial Statements or as otherwise contemplated by this Agreement, since December 31, 2025, (a) FSRL and its Subsidiaries have carried on their respective businesses in all material respects in the Ordinary Course of Business, (b) there have been no events, changes or circumstances which have had, or are reasonable likely to have, individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect with respect to FSRL, and (c) neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has taken any action or failed to take any action prior to the date of this Agreement which action or failure, if taken after the date of this Agreement, would constitute a material breach or violation of any of the covenants and agreements set forth in Section 5.01.
Section 3.11 Legal Proceedings.
(a) Except as set forth in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.11(a), there is no material civil, criminal, administrative or regulatory action, suit, demand letter, demand for indemnification, claim, hearing, notice of violation, arbitration, investigation, order to show cause, market conduct examination, notice of non-compliance or other proceeding of any nature pending or, to the Knowledge of FSRL, threatened against FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries or any of their current or former directors or executive officers in their capacities as such, or to which FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries or any of their current or former director or executive officer, in their capacities as such, is a party, including without limitation, any such actions, suits, demand letters, demands for indemnification, claims, hearings, notices of violation, arbitrations, investigations, orders to show cause, market conduct examinations, notices of non-compliance or other proceedings of any nature that would challenge the validity or propriety of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
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(b) There is no material injunction, order, judgment or decree or regulatory restriction imposed upon FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries, or the assets of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries (or that, upon consummation of the Merger or the Bank Merger would apply to the Surviving Entity or any of its Subsidiaries or affiliates), and neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has been advised of the threat of any such action, other than any such injunction, order, judgement or decree that is generally applicable to all Persons in businesses similar to that of FSRL or any of FSRL’s Subsidiaries.
(c) To the Knowledge of FSRL, no event has occurred and no circumstance exists that would reasonably be expected to give rise to or serve as a basis for the commencement of any material civil, criminal, administrative or regulatory action, suit, claim, arbitration or investigation against FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries, including any proceeding or the type described in clauses (a) or (b) above.
Section 3.12 Compliance with Laws.
(a) FSRL and each of its Subsidiaries is, and has been since January 1, 2023, in compliance in all material respects with all applicable federal, state, local and foreign Laws, rules, judgments, orders or decrees applicable thereto or to the employees conducting such businesses, including, without limitation, Laws related to data protection or privacy, the USA PATRIOT Act, the Bank Secrecy Act, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, the Fair Housing Act, the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act, the Community Reinvestment Act, the Fair Credit Reporting Act, the Truth in Lending Act, the Dodd-Frank Act, Sections 23A and 23B of the Federal Reserve Act, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act or the regulations implementing such statutes, all other applicable anti-money laundering Laws, fair lending Laws and other Laws relating to discriminatory lending, financing, leasing or business practices and all agency requirements relating to the origination, sale and servicing of mortgage loans. Since January 1, 2023, neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has been advised of any supervisory concerns regarding their compliance with the Bank Secrecy Act or related state or federal anti-money laundering laws, regulations and guidelines, including without limitation those provisions of federal regulations requiring (i) the filing of reports, such as Currency Transaction Reports and Suspicious Activity Reports, (ii) the maintenance of records and (iii) the exercise of due diligence in identifying customers. Neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has been advised by any Governmental Authority of any material deficiencies or concerns in respect of its compliance with applicable Laws.
(b) FSRL and each of its Subsidiaries have all material permits, licenses, authorizations, orders and approvals of, and each has made all filings, applications and registrations with, all Governmental Authorities that are required in order to permit it to own or lease its properties and to conduct its business as presently conducted. All such permits, licenses, certificates of authority, orders and approvals are in full force and effect and, to FSRL’s Knowledge, no suspension or cancellation of any of them is threatened.
(c) Neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has received, since January 1, 2023, written or, to FSRL’s Knowledge, oral notification from any Governmental Authority (i) asserting that it is materially in non-compliance with any of the Laws which such Governmental Authority enforces or (ii) threatening to revoke any license, franchise, permit or governmental authorization (nor, to FSRL’s Knowledge, do any grounds for any of the foregoing exist).
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Section 3.13 FSRL Material Contracts; Defaults.
(a) Other than the FSRL Benefit Plans, neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries is a party to, bound by or subject to any agreement, contract, arrangement, commitment or understanding (whether written or oral) (i) which would entitle any present or former director, officer, employee, consultant or agent of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries to indemnification from FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries; (ii) which grants any right of first refusal, right of first offer or similar right with respect to any assets or properties of FSRL or its respective Subsidiaries; (iii) related to the borrowing by FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries of money other than those entered into in the Ordinary Course of Business and any guaranty of any obligation for the borrowing of money, excluding endorsements made for collection, repurchase or resell agreements, letters of credit and guaranties made in the Ordinary Course of Business; (iv) which provides for payments to be made by FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries upon a change in control thereof; (v) relating to the lease of personal property having a value in excess of $25,000 individually or $50,000 in the aggregate; (vi) relating to any joint venture, partnership, limited liability company agreement or other similar agreement or arrangement; (vii) which relates to capital expenditures and involves future payments in excess of $50,000 individually or $125,000 in the aggregate; (viii) which relates to the disposition or acquisition of assets or any interest in any business enterprise outside the Ordinary Course of Business; (ix) which is not terminable on sixty (60) days or less notice and involving the payment of more than $30,000 per annum; (x) which contains a non-compete or client or customer non-solicit requirement or any other provision that restricts the conduct of any line of business by FSRL or any of its Affiliates or upon consummation of the Merger will restrict the ability of the Surviving Entity or any of its Affiliates to engage in any line of business (including, for the avoidance of doubt, any exclusivity provision granted in favor of any third party) or which grants any right of first refusal, right of first offer or similar right or that limits or purports to limit the ability of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries (or, following consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby, CBAN or any of its Subsidiaries) to own, operate, sell, transfer, pledge or otherwise dispose of any assets or business; (xi) pursuant to which FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries may become obligated to invest in or contribute capital to any entity; (xii) which provides that the benefits of which will be increased, or the vesting of benefits of which will be accelerated, by the occurrence of any of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, or the value of any of the benefits of which will be calculated on the basis of any of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement; (xiii) any debt securities or any swaps, hedging or derivatives arrangements (or the guarantee of any of the foregoing by FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries); (xiv) any employment, severance, termination, consulting, retention or retirement agreement; (xv) any agreement with any Affiliate, officer, director, employee, or consultant of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries (other than ordinary course loans or deposits); (xvi) any settlement agreement, consent agreement or similar agreement (including with any Governmental Authority) that imposes continuing material obligations on FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries; or (xvii) any agreement that provides rights to investors, including registration, preemptive, anti-dilution or board designation rights; (each such contract, arrangement, commitment or understanding of the type described in this Section 3.13(a) is listed in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.13(a), and is referred to herein as a “FSRL Material Contract”). FSRL has previously made available to CBAN true, complete and correct copies of each such FSRL Material Contract, including any and all amendments and modifications thereto. All indebtedness for borrowed money of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries is prepayable without penalty or premium, except as set forth in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.13(a) and FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.03(b).
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(b) (i) Each FSRL Material Contract is valid and binding on FSRL and any of its Subsidiaries to the extent such Subsidiary is a party thereto, as applicable, and is in full force and effect and enforceable in accordance with its terms (assuming the due execution by each other party thereto, provided that FSRL hereby represents and warrants that, to its Knowledge, each FSRL Material Contract is duly executed by all such parties), subject to the Enforceability Exception; (ii) FSRL and each of its Subsidiaries and, to the Knowledge of FSRL, each of the other parties thereto, has in all material respects performed all obligations required to be performed by such party to date under each FSRL Material Contract; and (iii) and neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries is in default under any FSRL Material Contract or other “material contract” (as such term is defined in Item 601(b)(10) of Regulation S-K of the SEC), to which it is a party, and there has not occurred any event that, with the lapse of time or the giving of notice or both, would constitute such a material default. No power of attorney or similar authorization given directly or indirectly by FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries is currently outstanding. No counterparty to any FSRL Material Contract has exercised, or delivered written notice of intent to exercise, any force majeure or similar provision to excuse or delay performance thereunder.
(c) FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.13(c) sets forth a true and complete list of all FSRL Material Contracts pursuant to which consents, waivers or notices are or may be required to be given thereunder, in each case, prior to the performance by FSRL of this Agreement and the consummation of the Merger, the Bank Merger and the other transactions contemplated hereby and thereby.
(d) FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.13(d) contains a schedule showing the estimated, with reasonable precision, present value of the monetary amounts payable as of the date specified in such schedule, whether individually or in the aggregate (including good faith estimates of all amounts not subject to precise quantification as of the date of this Agreement), under any employment, change-in-control, severance, salary continuation, deferred compensation, supplemental retirement or similar contract, plan or arrangement with or which covers any present or former employee, director or consultant of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries and identifying the types and estimated amounts of the in-kind benefits due under any FSRL Benefit Plan or FSRL Material Contract for each such person, specifying the assumptions in such schedule. The failure of FSRL to include immaterial amounts (both individually and/or in the aggregate) under this Section 3.13(d) shall not constitute a breach hereof.
Section 3.14 Agreements with Regulatory Agencies.
Neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries is subject to any cease-and-desist or other order issued by, or is a party to any written agreement, consent agreement or memorandum of understanding with, or is a party to any commitment letter or similar undertaking to, or is a recipient of any extraordinary supervisory letter from, or is subject to any order or directive by, or has adopted any board resolutions at the request of any Governmental Authority (each a “FSRL Regulatory Agreement”) that restricts, or by its terms will in the future restrict, the conduct of FSRL’s or any of its Subsidiaries’ business or that in any manner relates to their capital adequacy, credit or risk management policies, dividend policies, management, business or operations, nor has FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries been advised by any Governmental Authority that it is considering issuing, initiating, ordering, requesting, recommending, or otherwise proceeding with (or is considering the appropriateness of any of the aforementioned actions) any FSRL Regulatory Agreement. To FSRL’s Knowledge, there are no investigations relating to any regulatory matters pending before any Governmental Authority with respect to FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries.
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Section 3.15 Brokers; Fairness Opinion.
Neither FSRL nor any of its officers, directors or any of its Subsidiaries has employed any broker or finder or incurred, nor will it incur, any liability for any broker’s fees, commissions or finder’s fees in connection with any of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, except that FSRL has engaged, and will pay a fee or commission to Hovde Group, LLC (“FSRL Financial Advisor”), in accordance with the terms of a letter agreement between FSRL Financial Advisor and FSRL, a true, complete and correct copy of which has been previously delivered by FSRL to CBAN. FSRL has received the opinion of the FSRL Financial Advisor (and, when it is delivered in writing, a copy of such opinion will be promptly provided to CBAN) to the effect that, as of the date of this Agreement and based upon and subject to the qualifications and assumptions set forth therein, the Merger Consideration is fair, from a financial point of view, to the holders of shares of FSRL Stock (including holders of shares of FSRL Stock through the ESOP), and, as of the date of this Agreement, such opinion has not been withdrawn, revoked or modified.
Section 3.16 Employee Benefit Plans.
(a) FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.16(a) sets forth a true and complete list of each FSRL Benefit Plan. For purposes of this Agreement, “FSRL Benefit Plans” means all benefit and compensation plans, contracts, policies or arrangements (i) covering current or former employees of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries (such current and former employees collectively, the “FSRL Employees”), (ii) covering current or former directors of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries, or (iii) with respect to which FSRL, any of its Subsidiaries, Controlled Group Members, or ERISA Affiliates has or may have any liability or contingent liability including, but not limited to, “employee benefit plans” within the meaning of Section 3(3) of ERISA, health/welfare, employment, severance, change-of-control, fringe benefit, deferred compensation, defined benefit plan, defined contribution plan, stock option, stock purchase, stock appreciation rights, stock based, incentive, bonus plans, retirement plans and other policies, plans or arrangements whether or not subject to ERISA.
(b) With respect to each FSRL Benefit Plan, FSRL has provided or made available to CBAN true and complete copies of such FSRL Benefit Plan (or a written summary of such FSRL Benefit Plan where no plan document exists), any trust instruments and insurance contracts forming a part of any FSRL Benefit Plans and all amendments thereto, the most current summary plan descriptions and summaries of material modifications, IRS Form 5500, including applicable schedules and reports required to be filed therewith (for the three (3) most recently completed plan years), the most recent IRS determination, opinion, or advisory letters with respect thereto, and any correspondence from any Governmental Authority. In addition, with respect to the FSRL Benefit Plans for the three (3) most recently completed plan years, any plan financial statements and accompanying accounting reports, service contracts, fidelity bonds and material communications (e.g. award agreements, summary of benefits and coverage, employee and participant annual QDIA notice, safe harbor notice, or fee disclosures notices under 29 CFR 2550.404a-5), and coverage and nondiscrimination testing data and results (e.g. under Code Sections 105(h), 125, 129, 410, 401(k), and 401(m), as applicable), have been provided or made available to CBAN.
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(c) All FSRL Benefit Plans are in compliance in all material respects in form and operation with all applicable Laws, including ERISA and the Code. Each FSRL Benefit Plan which is intended to be qualified under Section 401(a) of the Code (“FSRL 401(a) Plan”) has received a favorable determination letter from the IRS or is entitled to rely on a favorable opinion or advisory letter from the IRS, and, to FSRL’s Knowledge, there is not any circumstance that could reasonably be expected to result in revocation of any such favorable determination, opinion or advisory letter, and nothing has occurred that would reasonably be expected to result in the FSRL 401(a) Plan ceasing to be qualified under Section 401(a) of the Code. All FSRL Benefit Plans have been administered in all material respects in accordance with their terms. There is no pending or, to FSRL’s Knowledge, threatened litigation or regulatory action relating to the FSRL Benefit Plans. To FSRL’s Knowledge, neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has engaged in a transaction with respect to any FSRL Benefit Plan that could reasonably be expected to subject FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries to a tax or penalty under Section 4975 of the Code or Section 502(i) of ERISA. No FSRL 401(a) Plan has been submitted under or been the subject of an IRS voluntary compliance program submission that is still outstanding or that has not been fully corrected in accordance with a compliance statement issued by the IRS with respect to any applicable failures. There are no audits, inquiries, investigations, or proceedings pending or, to FSRL’s Knowledge, threatened by any Governmental Authority, or participant claims (other than claims for benefits in the normal course of business), with respect to any FSRL Benefit Plan. To FSRL’s Knowledge, neither FSRL nor any administrator or fiduciary of any FSRL Benefit Plan (or any agent of any of the foregoing) that is an employee of FSRL has engaged in any transaction, or acted or failed to act in any manner with respect to any FSRL Benefit Plan that could subject it to any direct or indirect material liability (by indemnity or otherwise) for breach of any fiduciary, co-fiduciary, or other duty under ERISA. No oral or written representation or communication with respect to any aspect of the FSRL Benefit Plans has been made to FSRL Employees that is not in conformity with the written or otherwise preexisting terms and provisions of such plans.
(d) Neither FSRL nor any ERISA Affiliate has ever maintained a plan subject to Title IV of ERISA or Section 412 of the Code. None of FSRL or any ERISA Affiliate has contributed to (or been obligated to contribute to) a “multiemployer plan” within the meaning of Section 3(37) of ERISA. FSRL has not contributed to (or been obligated to contribute to) a “multiple employer plan” within the meaning of ERISA Sections 4063 or 4064 or Code Section 413(c) at any time. Neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries or ERISA Affiliates have incurred, and to FSRL’s Knowledge there are no circumstances under which they could reasonably be expected to incur, liability under Title IV of ERISA. Neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has ever sponsored, maintained or participated in a multiple employer welfare arrangement as defined in ERISA Section 3(40).
(e) All contributions required to be made with respect to all FSRL Benefit Plans have been timely made or accrued on FSRL’s financial statements.
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(f) No FSRL Benefit Plan provides life insurance, medical, surgical, hospitalization or other employee welfare benefits to any FSRL Employee, upon or following his or her retirement or termination of employment for any reason, except as may be required by Law.
(g) All FSRL Benefit Plans that are group health plans have been operated in all material respects in compliance with the group health plan continuation requirements of Section 4980B of the Code and all other applicable sections of ERISA and the Code, and, to FSRL’s Knowledge, no material liabilities arising under Code Section 4980H have occurred or no such liabilities are expected to be assessed. FSRL may amend or terminate any such FSRL Benefit Plan at any time, subject to applicable Law and the terms of the FSRL Benefit Plan.
(h) Except as set forth on FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.16(h), neither the execution of this Agreement, shareholder approval of this Agreement or consummation of any of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (individually or in conjunction with any other event) will (i) entitle any FSRL Employee to retention or other bonuses, parachute payments, non-competition payments, or any other payment, (ii) entitle any FSRL Employee to severance pay or any increase in severance pay, (iii) accelerate the time of payment or vesting (except as required by Law) or trigger any payment or funding (through a grantor trust or otherwise) of compensation or benefits under or increase the amount payable under any of the FSRL Benefit Plans, (iv) result in any breach or violation of, or a default under, any of the FSRL Benefit Plans, (v) result in any payment of any amount that would, individually or in combination with any other such payment, be an excess “parachute payment” to a “disqualified individual” as those terms are defined in Section 280G of the Code, or (vi) limit or restrict the right of FSRL or, after the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby, CBAN or any of its Subsidiaries, to merge, amend or terminate any of the FSRL Benefit Plans in accordance with applicable Law.
(i) Each FSRL Benefit Plan that is a non-qualified deferred compensation plan or arrangement within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code, and any underlying award, is in compliance in all material respects with Section 409A of the Code. Neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries (i) has any obligation to reimburse or indemnify any participant in a FSRL Benefit Plan for any of the interest or penalties specified in Section 409A(a)(1)(B) of the Code that may be currently due or triggered in the future, or (ii) has been required to report to any Governmental Authority any correction or taxes due as a result of a failure to comply with Section 409A of the Code.
(j) No FSRL Benefit Plan provides for the gross-up or reimbursement of any Taxes imposed by Section 4999 of the Code or otherwise, and neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has any obligation to reimburse or indemnify any party for such Taxes.
(k) FSRL has made available to CBAN copies of any Code Section 280G calculations (whether or not final) with respect to any disqualified individual, if applicable, in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
(l) FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.16(l) contains a schedule showing the monetary amounts payable or potentially payable, whether individually or in the aggregate (including good faith estimates of all amounts not subject to precise quantification as of the date of this Agreement) under any employment, change-in-control, severance, or similar contract, plan, or arrangement with or which covers any present or former director, officer, employee, or consultant of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries who may be entitled to any such amount and identifying the types and estimated amounts of the in-kind benefits due under any FSRL Benefit Plans (other than a plan qualified under Section 401(a) of the Code) for each such Person, specifying the assumptions in such schedule and providing estimates of other required contributions to any trusts for any related fees or expenses.
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(m) No FSRL Benefits Plan is subject to the Laws of any jurisdiction outside of the United States.
Section 3.17 Labor Matters.
(a) Neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries is a party to or bound by any collective bargaining agreement, contract or other agreement or understanding with a labor union or labor organization, nor is there any proceeding pending or, to FSRL’s Knowledge threatened, asserting that FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries has committed an unfair labor practice (within the meaning of the National Labor Relations Act) or seeking to compel FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries to bargain with any labor organization as to wages or conditions of employment, nor is there any strike or other labor dispute against FSRL pending or, to FSRL’s Knowledge, threatened, nor to FSRL’s Knowledge is there any activity involving FSRL Employees seeking to certify a collective bargaining unit or engaging in other organizational activity. To FSRL’s Knowledge, FSRL and its Subsidiaries have correctly classified all individuals who directly or indirectly perform services for FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries for purposes of federal and state unemployment compensation Laws, workers’ compensation Laws and the rules and regulations of the U.S. Department of Labor and as employees or independent contractors under applicable Laws. To FSRL’s Knowledge, no officer of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries is in material violation of any employment contract, confidentiality, non-competition agreement or any other restrictive covenant, and neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has received any written notice from any Governmental Authority responsible for the enforcement of labor or employment Laws of an intent to conduct, nor to FSRL’s Knowledge is there pending or threatened, any investigation relating to the labor or employment practices of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries.
(b) FSRL and its Subsidiaries are in compliance in all material respects with, and since December 31, 2023, have complied in all material respects with, all Laws regarding employment and employment practices, terms and conditions of employment, wages and hours, plant closing notification, classification of employees and independent contractors, equitable pay practices, privacy rights, labor disputes, employment discrimination, sexual harassment or discrimination, workers’ compensation or long-term disability policies, retaliation, immigration, family and medical leave, occupational safety and health and other Laws in respect of any reduction in force (including notice, information and consultation requirements).
(c) (i) To FSRL’s Knowledge, no written allegations of sexual harassment or sexual misconduct have been made in the past five (5) years against any person who is a current member of the board of directors of FSRL or a current officer of FSRL or its Subsidiaries categorized at or above Senior Vice President, (ii) in the past five (5) years neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has entered into any settlement agreement related to allegations of sexual harassment or sexual misconduct by any current officer at or above Senior Vice President, and (iii) there are no proceedings currently pending or, to the Knowledge of FSRL, threatened related to any allegations of sexual harassment or sexual misconduct by any current member of the board of directors of FSRL, any current officer or any Senior Vice President.
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(d) Since March 31, 2026, neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has effectuated a “mass layoff” or “plant closings” as defined in the WARN Act affecting any site of employment or facility of FSRL or FSRL’s Subsidiaries.
(e) Except as set forth on FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.17(e), neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries is a party to any FSRL Material Contract with respect to the employment of any officer, director, employee or consultant that is not terminable at will and without any penalty or other severance or obligation.
(f) FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.17(f) sets forth a complete list of all employees FSRL and its Subsidiaries and their basic employment data (including, without limitation, with respect to each such employee, current base salary or wage, total compensation for 2025, current target bonus opportunity, date of hire, status as full or part-time, status as active or on-leave (and type of leave) and exempt or non-exempt status and office location).
(g) Except as set forth on FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.17(g), there are no employment agreements, severance agreements or similar arrangements to which FSRL or any of its Subsidiary is a party.
(h) Except as set forth on FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.17(h), there are no non-solicitation, non-competition, non-disclosure, or non-interference agreements between FSRL or its Subsidiary and any current or former employee of FSRL or any of its Subsidiary.
(i) Neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has incurred any workers’ compensation liability other than in the Ordinary Course of Business. FSRL and its Subsidiaries have paid or accrued all material assessments required under applicable workers’ compensation Laws, and neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has been subject to any unpaid material special or penalty assessment under such Laws.
Section 3.18 Environmental Matters.
(a) To its Knowledge, (i) FSRL and its Subsidiaries have been and are in material compliance with all applicable Environmental Laws, including obtaining, maintaining and complying with all permits required under Environmental Laws for the operation of their respective businesses, (ii) there is no action or investigation by or before any Governmental Authority relating to or arising under any Environmental Laws that is pending or, to the Knowledge of FSRL, threatened against FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries or any real property or facility presently owned, operated or leased by FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries or any predecessor (including in a fiduciary or agency capacity), (iii) neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has received any notice of or is subject to any liability, order, settlement, judgment, injunction or decree involving uncompleted, outstanding or unresolved requirements relating to or arising under Environmental Laws, (iv) to the Knowledge of FSRL, there have been no releases of Hazardous Substances at, on, under or affecting any of the real properties or facilities presently owned, operated or leased by FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries or any predecessor (including in a fiduciary or agency capacity) in amount or condition that has resulted in or would reasonably be expected to result in liability to FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries relating to or arising under any Environmental Laws, (v) to the Knowledge of FSRL, there are no underground storage tanks on, in or under any property currently owned, operated or leased by FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries, and (vi) FSRL and its Subsidiaries have furnished to CBAN all environmental assessments, audits, reports, and other material documents and information in their possession or control relating to FSRL, any of its Subsidiaries, any predecessor, any facility or property currently or formerly owned, leased or operated by FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries.
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(b) FSRL and its Subsidiaries have developed, implemented and adhere to commercially reasonable environmental risk-management procedures in connection with the origination and servicing of loans and the exercise of rights and remedies with respect thereto, including upon borrower default, in order to minimize potential liability under Environmental Laws.
Section 3.19 Tax Matters.
(a) Each of FSRL and its Subsidiaries has duly and timely filed (taking into account all applicable extensions) all income Tax Returns and all other material Tax Returns that it was required to file under applicable Laws. All such Tax Returns were correct and complete in all material respects and have been prepared in compliance with all applicable Laws. All material Taxes due and owing by FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries (whether or not shown on any Tax Return) have been fully and timely paid. Neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries is currently the beneficiary of any extension of time within which to file any Tax Return. Neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has ever received written notice of any claim by any Governmental Authority in a jurisdiction where FSRL or such Subsidiary does not file Tax Returns that it is or may be subject to Taxes by that jurisdiction. There are no Liens for Taxes (other than Taxes not yet due and payable or that are being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings and for which adequate reserves have been established in accordance with GAAP) upon any of the assets of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries.
(b) FSRL and each of its Subsidiaries have collected or withheld and paid over to the appropriate Governmental Authority all material amounts of Taxes required to have been collected or withheld and paid over by it, and have complied in all material respects with all information reporting and backup withholding requirements under any applicable federal, state, local and foreign Laws in connection with amounts paid or owing to any Person, including Taxes required to have been collected or withheld and paid in connection with amounts paid or owing to any employee or independent contractor, creditor, shareholder or other third party, and Taxes required to be collected or withheld and paid pursuant to Sections 1441, 1442, and 3406 of the Code or similar provisions under state, local, or foreign Law.
(c) No foreign, federal, state or local Tax audits or administrative or judicial Tax proceedings are currently being conducted or pending or threatened in writing, in each case, with respect to Taxes of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries. Neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has received from any foreign, federal, state or local taxing authority (including jurisdictions where FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries have not filed Tax Returns) any (i) written notice indicating an intent to open an audit, action, suit, proceeding, claim, investigation, examination, or other litigation regarding any Tax or other review with respect to Taxes or (ii) written notice of deficiency or proposed adjustment for any amount of Tax proposed, asserted or assessed by any taxing authority against FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries which, in either case (i) or (ii), has not been fully paid or settled. There are no agreements, waivers or other arrangements providing for an extension of time with respect to the assessment of any Tax or deficiency against FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries, and neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has waived or extended the applicable statute of limitations for the assessment or collection of any Tax or agreed to a Tax assessment or deficiency.
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(d) FSRL has delivered or made available to CBAN true and complete copies of the foreign, federal, state or local Tax Returns filed with respect to FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries, and of all examination reports and statements of deficiencies assessed against or agreed to by FSRL, in each case with respect to income Taxes, for taxable periods ended on or after December 31, 2022.
(e) Neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has been a United States real property holding corporation within the meaning of Code Section 897(c)(2) during the applicable period specified in Code Section 897(c)(1)(A)(ii). Except as set forth on FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.19(e), neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries is a party to or is otherwise bound by any Tax allocation, sharing agreement or similar agreement pursuant to which it has any material obligation to any Person with respect to Taxes (other than such an agreement with customers, vendors, lessors or similar third parties entered into in the Ordinary Course of Business and not primarily related to Taxes). Neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries (i) has been a member of an affiliated group filing a consolidated federal income Tax Return (other than a group the common parent of which was FSRL), or (ii) has any liability for the Taxes of any Person (other than FSRL and its Subsidiaries) under Regulations Section 1.1502-6 (or any similar provision of foreign, state or local Law), as a transferee or successor, by contract, or otherwise.
(f) The most recent Financial Statements as of the date hereof reflect an adequate reserve, in accordance with GAAP, for all Taxes payable by FSRL and its Subsidiaries for all taxable periods through the date of such Financial Statements. Since December 31, 2025, neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has incurred any liability for Taxes arising from extraordinary gains or losses, as that term is used in GAAP, outside the Ordinary Course of Business.
(g) Neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries will be required to include any material item of income in, or exclude any material item of deduction from, taxable income for any taxable period (or portion thereof) ending after the Effective Time as a result of any: (i) change in method of accounting pursuant to Section 481 of the Code or any comparable provision under foreign, state or local Law for a taxable period ending on or prior to the Closing Date; (ii) “closing agreement” as described in Code Section 7121 (or any corresponding or similar provision of foreign, state or local Law) executed on or prior to the Closing Date; (iii) intercompany transactions or any excess loss account described in Regulations under Code Section 1502 (or any corresponding or similar provision of foreign, state or local Law); (iv) installment sale or open transaction disposition made on or prior to the Closing Date; or (v) prepaid amount received on or prior to the Closing Date.
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(h) Since January 1, 2023, neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has distributed stock of another Person nor had its stock distributed by another Person in a transaction that was intended to be nontaxable and governed in whole or in part by Section 355 or Section 361 of the Code.
(i) Neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has been a party to any “listed transaction,” as defined in Section 6707A(c)(2) of the Code and Section 1.6011-4(b)(2) of the Regulations in any tax year.
(j) Neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries (i) is a “controlled foreign corporation” as defined in Section 957 of the Code, (ii) is a “passive foreign investment company” within the meaning of Section 1297 of the Code, or (iii) has a permanent establishment (within the meaning of an applicable Tax treaty) or otherwise has an office or fixed place of business in a country other than the country in which it is organized.
(k) Neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has taken or agreed to take any action, or is aware of any fact or circumstance, that would be reasonably likely to prevent the Merger or the Bank Merger from qualifying for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a “reorganization” within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code.
(l) FSRL and each of its Subsidiaries is in material compliance with all federal, state and foreign Laws applicable to abandoned or unclaimed property or escheat and has timely paid, remitted or delivered to each jurisdiction all material unclaimed or abandoned property required by any applicable Laws to be paid, remitted or delivered to that jurisdiction.
(m) Set forth in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.19(m) are the net operating loss, net capital loss, credit, minimum Tax, charitable contribution, and other Tax carryforwards (by type of carryforward and expiration date, if any) of FSRL and each of its Subsidiaries. Except as set forth on FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.19(m), none of those carryforwards are, as of the Closing Date and without giving effect to the Merger, presently subject to limitation under Sections 382, 383, or 384 of the Code, or the federal consolidated return regulations, or any analogous provision of foreign, state, or local Tax Law.
Section 3.20 Investment Securities.
(a) FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.20 sets forth as of March 31, 2026, the FSRL Investment Securities, as well as any purchases or sales of FSRL Investment Securities between December 31, 2025 to and including March 31, 2026, reflecting with respect to all such securities, whenever purchased or sold, descriptions thereof, CUSIP numbers, designations as securities “available for sale” or securities “held to maturity” (as those terms are used in ASC 320), book values, fair values and coupon rates, and any gain or loss with respect to any FSRL Investment Securities sold during such time period between December 31, 2025 and March 31, 2026. Each of FSRL and its Subsidiaries has good title in all material respects to all securities and commodities owned by it (except those sold under repurchase agreements) which are material to FSRL’s business on a consolidated basis, free and clear of any Lien, except to the extent such securities or commodities are pledged in the Ordinary Course of Business to secure obligations of FSRL or its Subsidiaries. Such securities and commodities are valued on the books of FSRL in accordance with GAAP in all material respects. Except as set forth in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.20, neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries owns any of the outstanding equity of any savings bank, savings and loan association, savings and loan holding company, credit union, bank or bank holding company, insurance company, mortgage or loan broker or any other financial institution other than First Reliance Bank. Except for investments in FHLB stock, FRB stock, trust preferred securities and pledges to secure FHLB or FRB borrowings and reverse repurchase agreements entered into in arm’s-length transactions pursuant to normal commercial terms and conditions and entered into in the Ordinary Course of Business and restrictions that exist for securities to be classified as “held to maturity,” none of the investment securities held by FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries is subject to any restriction (contractual or statutory) that would materially impair the ability of the entity holding such investment to freely dispose of such investment at any time.
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(b) FSRL has made available to CBAN a true and complete list, as of March 31, 2026, of the borrowed funds (excluding deposit accounts) of FSRL and its Subsidiaries.
(c) FSRL has made available to CBAN a true and complete list, as of March 31, 2026, of the deposits of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries that are “brokered” or “listing service” deposits.
(d) FSRL and its Subsidiaries employ, to the extent applicable, investment, securities, risk management and other policies, practices and procedures that FSRL believes are prudent and reasonable in the context of their respective businesses, and FSRL and its Subsidiaries have, since January 1, 2024, been in compliance with such policies, practices and procedures in all material respects.
Section 3.21 Derivative Transactions.
(a) All Derivative Transactions entered into by FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries or for the account of any of its customers were entered into in accordance in all material respects with applicable Laws and regulatory policies of any Governmental Authority, and in accordance in all material respects with the investment, securities, commodities, risk management and other policies, practices and procedures employed by FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries, and were entered into with counterparties believed at the time to be financially responsible and able to understand (either alone or in consultation with its advisers) and to bear the risks of such Derivative Transactions. FSRL and each of its Subsidiaries have duly performed, in all material respects, all of their obligations under the Derivative Transactions to the extent that such obligations to perform have accrued, and there are no material breaches, violations or defaults or allegations or assertions of such by any party thereunder.
(b) Each Derivative Transaction is listed in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.21(b), and the financial position of FSRL or its Subsidiaries under or with respect to each has been reflected in the books and records of FSRL or its Subsidiaries in accordance with GAAP, and no material open exposure of FSRL or its Subsidiaries with respect to any such instrument (or with respect to multiple instruments with respect to any single counterparty) exists, except as set forth in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.21(b).
(c) No Derivative Transaction, were it to be a Loan held by FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries, would be classified as “Special Mention,” “Substandard,” “Doubtful,” “Loss,” “Classified,” “Criticized,” “Credit Risk Assets,” “Concerned Loans,” “Watch List,” as such terms are defined by the FDIC’s uniform loan classification standards, or words of similar import.
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(d) As of the date hereof, neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries is a party to any Derivative Transaction that has not been resolved.
Section 3.22 Regulatory Capitalization.
FSRL and First Reliance Bank are “well-capitalized,” as such term is defined in the applicable state and federal rules and regulations. Neither FSRL nor First Reliance Bank has received any written notice from any Governmental Authority indicating that it would reasonably be expected to cease to be “well capitalized,” and FSRL has no Knowledge of any facts or circumstances that would reasonably be expected to result in such a change.
Section 3.23 Loans; Nonperforming and Classified Assets.
(a) FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.23(a) sets forth all (i) loans, loan agreements, notes or borrowing arrangements and other extensions of credit (including, without limitation, leases, credit enhancements, commitments, guarantees and interest-bearing assets) (collectively, “Loans”) in which FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries is a creditor which, as of March 31, 2026, was over thirty (30) days or more delinquent in payment of principal or interest or in default of any other material provision, and (ii) Loans with any director, executive officer or 5% or greater shareholder of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries, or to the Knowledge of FSRL, any affiliate of any of the foregoing. Set forth in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.23(a) is a true, correct and complete list of (A) all of the Loans of FSRL and its Subsidiaries that, as of March 31, 2026, were classified as “Special Mention,” “Substandard,” “Doubtful,” “Loss,” “Classified,” “Criticized,” “Credit Risk Assets,” “Concerned Loans,” “Watch List” or words of similar import by First Reliance Bank, FSRL or any bank examiner, together with the principal amount of and accrued and unpaid interest on each such Loan and the identity of the borrower thereunder, together with the aggregate principal amount of such Loans by category of Loan (e.g., commercial, consumer, etc.), and (B) each Loan classified by First Reliance Bank as a Troubled Debt Restructuring as defined by GAAP.
(b) FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.23(b) identifies each asset of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries that as of March 31, 2026 was classified as other real estate owned (“OREO”) and the book value thereof as of March 31, 2026 as well as any assets classified as OREO between December 31, 2025 and March 31, 2026 and any sales of OREO between December 31, 2025 and March 31, 2026, reflecting any gain or loss with respect to any OREO sold.
(c) Each Loan held in FSRL’s or any of its Subsidiaries’ loan portfolio (each a “FSRL Loan”) (i) is evidenced by notes, agreements or other evidences of indebtedness that are true, genuine and what they purport to be, (ii) to the extent secured, is and has been secured by valid Liens which have been perfected and (iii) is a legal, valid and binding obligation of FSRL and the obligor named therein, and, assuming due authorization, execution and delivery thereof by such obligor or obligors, enforceable in accordance with its terms, subject to the Enforceability Exception.
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(d) All currently outstanding FSRL Loans were solicited, originated and currently exist in material compliance with all applicable requirements of Law and the notes or other credit or security documents with respect to each such outstanding FSRL Loan are complete and correct in all material respects. There are no oral modifications or amendments or additional agreements related to the FSRL Loans that are not reflected in the written records of FSRL or its Subsidiary, as applicable. All such FSRL Loans are owned by FSRL or its Subsidiary free and clear of any Liens other than a blanket lien on qualifying loans provided to the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta. No claims of defense as to the enforcement of any FSRL Loan have been asserted in writing against FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries for which there is a reasonable possibility of a material adverse determination, and FSRL has no Knowledge of any acts or omissions which would give rise to any claim or right of rescission, set-off, counterclaim or defense for which there is a reasonable possibility of a material adverse determination to its Subsidiaries. Except as described on FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.23(d), no FSRL Loans are presently serviced by third parties and there is no obligation which could result in any FSRL Loan becoming subject to any third-party servicing.
(e) Neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries is a party to any agreement or arrangement with (or otherwise obligated to) any Person which obligates FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries to repurchase from any such Person any Loan or other asset of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries, unless there is a material breach of a representation or covenant by FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries, and none of the agreements pursuant to which FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries has sold Loans or pools of Loans or participations in Loans or pools of Loans contains any obligation to repurchase such Loans or interests therein solely on account of a payment default by the obligor on any such Loan.
(f) Neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries is now nor has it ever been since January 1, 2023, subject to any fine, suspension, settlement or other contract or other administrative agreement or sanction by, or any reduction in any loan purchase commitment from, any Governmental Authority relating to the origination, sale or servicing of mortgage or consumer Loans.
(g) There are no outstanding Loans made by FSRL or First Reliance Bank to any directors, executive officers or principal shareholders (as such terms are defined in Regulation O of the Federal Reserve Board (12 C.F.R. Part 215)) of FSRL or First Reliance Bank, other than Loans that are subject to and that were made and continue to be in compliance with Regulation O or that are exempt therefrom.
Section 3.24 Allowance for Credit Losses.
FSRL’s allowance for credit losses as reflected in each of (a) the latest balance sheet included in the Financial Statements, (b) in the balance sheet as of December 31, 2025 included in the Financial Statements were, and, the allowance for credit losses shown on any financial statements delivered in accordance with Section 5.14 will be, as the case may be, in the opinion of management, as of each of the dates thereof, in compliance in all material respects with FSRL’s existing methodology for determining the adequacy of its allowance for credit losses as well as the standards established by applicable Governmental Authority, the Financial Accounting Standards Board and GAAP, and is, in the reasonable judgment of management, adequate under all such standards. As of December 31, 2025, any impairment on loans, investments, derivatives and any other financial instrument in the Financial Statements was accounted for under GAAP.
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Section 3.25 Trust Business; Administration of Fiduciary Accounts.
Neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has offered or engaged in providing any individual or corporate trust services or administers any accounts for which it acts as a fiduciary, including, but not limited to, any accounts in which it serves as a trustee, agent, custodian, personal representative, guardian, conservator or investment advisor.
Section 3.26 Investment Management and Related Activities.
None of FSRL, any FSRL Subsidiary or any of their respective directors, officers or employees, in each of their respective capacities as a director, officer, or employee of FSRL or any FSRL Subsidiary, is required to be registered, licensed or authorized under the Laws of any Governmental Authority as an investment adviser, a broker or dealer, an insurance agency, a commodity trading adviser, a commodity pool operator, a futures commission merchant, an introducing broker, a registered representative or associated person, investment adviser, representative or solicitor, a counseling officer, an insurance agent, a sales person or in any similar capacity with a Governmental Authority.
Section 3.27 Repurchase Agreements.
With respect to all agreements pursuant to which FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries has purchased securities subject to an agreement to resell, if any, FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries, as the case may be, has a valid, perfected first lien or security interest in the government securities or other collateral securing the repurchase agreement, and the value of such collateral equals or exceeds the amount of the debt secured thereby.
Section 3.28 Deposit Insurance; FHLB.
First Reliance Bank is an “insured depositary institution” as defined in the FDIC, the deposits of First Reliance Bank are insured by the FDIC in accordance with the Federal Deposit Insurance Act (“FDIA”) to the fullest extent permitted by Law, and First Reliance Bank has paid all premiums and assessments and filed all reports required by the FDIA. No proceedings for the revocation or termination of such deposit insurance are pending or, to FSRL’s Knowledge, threatened. First Reliance Bank is a member in good standing of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta.
Section 3.29 Community Reinvestment Act, Anti-money Laundering and Customer Information Security.
Neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries is a party to any agreement with any individual or group regarding Community Reinvestment Act matters and neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has Knowledge that any facts or circumstances exist which would cause FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries: (a) to be deemed not to be in satisfactory compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act, and the regulations promulgated thereunder, or to be assigned a rating for Community Reinvestment Act purposes by federal or state bank regulators of lower than “satisfactory”; (b) to be deemed to be operating in violation of the Bank Secrecy Act and its implementing regulations (31 C.F.R. Part 103), the USA PATRIOT Act, any order issued with respect to anti-money laundering by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control, or any other applicable anti-money laundering statute, rule or regulation; or (c) to be deemed not to be in satisfactory compliance with the applicable privacy of customer information requirements contained in any federal and state privacy Laws and regulations, including, without limitation, in Title V of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act of 1999 and regulations promulgated thereunder. Furthermore, the boards of directors of FSRL and its Subsidiaries has implemented an anti-money laundering program that contains adequate and appropriate customer identification verification procedures that has not been deemed ineffective by any Governmental Authority and that meets the requirements of Sections 352 and 326 of the USA PATRIOT Act. First Reliance Bank has implemented a program with respect to the beneficial ownership requirements set forth in the final rule on Customer Due Diligence Requirements for Financial Institutions found in 81 Federal Register 29397 (July 11, 2016) and 31 C.F.R. § 1010 et seq.
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Section 3.30 Transactions with Affiliates.
Except as set forth in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.30, there are no outstanding amounts payable to or receivable from, or advances by FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries to, and neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries is otherwise a creditor or debtor to (a) any current or former director, executive officer, immediate family member of an such director or executive officer, 5% or greater shareholder of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries or to any of their respective Affiliates or Associates, other than as part of the normal and customary terms of such person’s employment or service as a director with FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries and other than deposits held by First Reliance Bank in the Ordinary Course of Business, or (b) any other Affiliate of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries. Except as set forth in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.30, there are no, and since December 31, 2023, there have been no, currently proposed transactions, arrangements or contracts between FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries, on the one hand, and any of the Persons described in clauses (a) or (b) above, on the other hand. All agreements between First Reliance Bank and any of its Affiliates (or any company treated as an affiliate for purposes of such Law) comply, and have complied, to the extent applicable, with Sections 23A and 23B of the Federal Reserve Act and Regulation W of the FRB.
Section 3.31 Tangible Properties and Assets.
(a) FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.31(a) sets forth a true, correct and complete list of all real property owned by FSRL and each of its Subsidiaries. Except as set forth in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.31(a), FSRL or its Subsidiaries has good and marketable title to, valid leasehold interests in or otherwise legally enforceable rights to use all of the real property, personal property and other assets (tangible or intangible), used, occupied and operated or held for use by it in connection with its business as presently conducted in each case, free and clear of any Lien, except for (a) statutory Liens for amounts not yet delinquent, and (b) easements, rights of way, and other similar Liens that do not materially affect the value or use of the properties or assets subject thereto or affected thereby or otherwise materially impair business operations at such properties. There is no pending or, to FSRL’s Knowledge, threatened legal, administrative, arbitral or other proceeding, claim, action or governmental or regulatory investigation of any nature with respect to the real property that FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries owns, uses or occupies or has the right to use or occupy, now or in the future, including without limitation a pending or threatened taking of any of such real property by eminent domain. True and complete copies of all deeds or other documentation evidencing ownership of the real properties set forth in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.31(a), and complete copies of the title insurance policies and surveys for each property, together with any mortgages, deeds of trust and security agreements to which such property is subject have been furnished or made available to CBAN. There are no material pending or, to the Knowledge of FSRL, threatened condemnation proceedings against any real property owned or leased by FSRL or its Subsidiaries.
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(b) FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.31(b) sets forth a true, correct and complete schedule of all leases, subleases, licenses and other agreements under which FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries uses or occupies or has the right to use or occupy, now or in the future, real property (the “Leases”). Each of the Leases is valid, binding and in full force and effect and neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has received a written notice of, and otherwise has no Knowledge of any, default or termination with respect to any Lease. There has not occurred any event and no condition exists that would constitute a termination event or a breach by FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries of, or default by FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries in, the performance of any covenant, agreement or condition contained in any Lease. To FSRL’s Knowledge, no lessor under a Lease is in material breach or default in the performance of any material covenant, agreement or condition contained in such Lease. FSRL and each of its Subsidiaries has paid all rents and other charges to the extent due under the Leases. True and complete copies of all Leases for, or other documentation evidencing ownership of or a leasehold interest in, the properties listed in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.31(b), have been furnished or made available to CBAN.
(c) All buildings, structures, fixtures, building systems and equipment, and all components thereof, including the roof, foundation, load-bearing walls and other structural elements thereof, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, mechanical, electrical, plumbing and other building systems, environmental control, remediation and abatement systems, sewer, storm and waste water systems, irrigation and other water distribution systems, parking facilities, fire protection, security and surveillance systems, and telecommunications, computer, wiring and cable installations, included in the owned real property or the subject of the Leases are in good condition and repair (normal wear and tear excepted) and sufficient for the operation of the business of FSRL and its Subsidiaries.
Section 3.32 Intellectual Property.
FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.32 sets forth a true, complete and correct list of all FSRL Intellectual Property. FSRL or its Subsidiaries owns or has a valid license to use all FSRL Intellectual Property, free and clear of all Liens, royalty or other payment obligations (except for royalties or payments with respect to off-the-shelf Software at standard commercial rates). The FSRL Intellectual Property constitutes all of the Intellectual Property necessary to carry on the business of FSRL and its Subsidiaries as currently conducted. The FSRL Intellectual Property is valid and enforceable and has not been cancelled, forfeited, expired or abandoned, and neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has received notice challenging the validity or enforceability of FSRL Intellectual Property. None of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries is, nor will any of them be as a result of the execution and delivery of this Agreement or the performance by FSRL of its obligations hereunder, in violation of any licenses, sublicenses and other agreements as to which FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries is a party and pursuant to which FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries is authorized to use any third-party patents, trademarks, service marks, copyrights, trade secrets or computer software, and neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has received notice challenging FSRL’s or any of its Subsidiaries’ license or legally enforceable right to use any such third-party intellectual property rights. The consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby will not result in the material loss or impairment of the right of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries to own or use any of FSRL Intellectual Property. Since January 1, 2023, neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries has been a party to any litigation or received any written notice alleging infringement or misappropriation of any third-party Intellectual Property, nor has FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries initiated any litigation to enforce its Intellectual Property rights.
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Section 3.33 Insurance.
(a) FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.33(a) identifies all of the insurance policies, binders or bonds currently maintained by FSRL and its Subsidiaries (the “Insurance Policies”), including the insurer, policy numbers, amount of coverage, effective and termination dates and any pending claims thereunder involving more than $10,000. FSRL and each of its Subsidiaries is insured with reputable insurers against such risks and in such amounts as the management of FSRL reasonably has determined to be prudent in accordance with industry practices. FSRL and its Subsidiaries maintain directors’ and officers’ liability insurance and fiduciary liability insurance with coverage limits and terms consistent with industry practice. All of the Insurance Policies are in full force and effect, neither FSRL nor any Subsidiary has received notice of cancellation of any of the Insurance Policies or is otherwise aware that any insurer under any of the Insurance Policies has expressed an intent to cancel any such Insurance Policies, and neither FSRL nor any of its Subsidiaries is in default thereunder, and all claims thereunder have been filed in due and timely fashion in all material respects. All premiums due and payable under the Insurance Policies have been timely paid, and there has been no lapse in coverage under any Insurance Policy.
(b) FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.33(b) sets forth a true, correct and complete description of all bank owned life insurance (“BOLI”) owned by FSRL or its Subsidiaries, including the value of its BOLI as of the end of the month prior to the date hereof. The value of such BOLI is and has been fairly and accurately reflected in the most recent balance sheet included in the Financial Statements in accordance with GAAP. All BOLI is owned solely by First Reliance Bank, no other Person has any ownership claims with respect to such BOLI or proceeds of insurance derived therefrom and there is no split dollar or similar benefit under FSRL’s BOLI. Neither FSRL nor any of FSRL’s Subsidiaries has any outstanding borrowings secured in whole or part by its BOLI.
Section 3.34 Antitakeover Provisions.
No Takeover Statutes are applicable to this Agreement, the Plan of Merger and the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby.
Section 3.35 FSRL Information.
The information relating to FSRL and its Subsidiaries that is provided by or on behalf of FSRL for inclusion in the Proxy Statement-Prospectus and the Registration Statement will not (with respect to the Proxy Statement-Prospectus, as of the date the Proxy Statement-Prospectus is first mailed to FSRL’s shareholders and as of the date of the FSRL Meeting, and with respect to the Registration Statement, as of the time the Registration Statement or any amendment or supplement thereto is declared effective under the Securities Act) contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances in which they are made, not misleading; provided, however, that any information contained in any subsequent filing of FSRL as of a later date shall be deemed to modify information as of an earlier date. The portions of the Proxy Statement-Prospectus relating to FSRL and FSRL’s Subsidiaries and other portions thereof within the reasonable control of FSRL and its Subsidiaries will comply as to form in all material respects with the provisions of the Exchange Act, and the rules and regulations thereunder.
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Section 3.36 Transaction Costs.
FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.36 sets forth attorneys’ fees, investment banking fees, accounting fees and other costs or fees of FSRL and its Subsidiaries that, based upon reasonable inquiry, are expected to be paid or accrued through the Closing Date in connection with the Merger and the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
Section 3.37 Bank Holding Company.
FSRL is regulated as a bank holding company under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended.
Section 3.38 ESOP Trustees.
The Persons set forth in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.38 are the duly appointed ESOP Trustees, with the power and authority to act on behalf of the ESOP (a) as fiduciary of the ESOP in the manner described in Section 3(21)(A) of ERISA and (b) on behalf of the ESOP to the extent specified in the ESOP and any related trust or other documents.
Section 3.39 Information Security.
FSRL and its Subsidiaries use commercially reasonable and appropriate efforts and measures to protect (a) their trade secrets and confidential information and (b) the integrity, security and continuous operation of the Systems used in connection with their businesses (and all personal data that are processed thereby), and since December 31, 2023, (i) there have been no breaches, outages, violations, or unauthorized uses of or unauthorized access to same, other than incidents that were resolved without material cost, liability or the duty to notify any Person and (ii) such Systems have functioned in all material respects in accordance with their specifications and intended purpose and have been free of material defects, errors, viruses, malware or other corruptants.
Section 3.40 Questionable Payments.
(a) None of FSRL, First Reliance Bank or any of their Subsidiaries, or to FSRL’s Knowledge, any director, officer, employee, agent or other person acting on behalf of FSRL, First Reliance Bank or any of its Subsidiaries, has, directly or indirectly: (a) used any corporate funds for unlawful contributions, gifts, entertainment or other unlawful expenses relating to foreign or domestic political activity; (b) made any unlawful payments to any foreign or domestic governmental officials, employees or agents of any foreign or domestic government or to any foreign or domestic political parties or campaigns from corporate funds; (c) violated any provision of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977, as amended; (d) established or maintained any unlawful fund of monies or other assets of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries, (e) made any fraudulent entry on the books or records of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries or (f) made any other unlawful bribe, rebate, payoff, influence payment, kickback, or other material unlawful payment, regardless of form, whether in money, property or services, to any foreign or domestic governmental official, employee, or agent of any foreign or domestic government. None of FSRL, First Reliance Bank or any of their Subsidiaries, or to FSRL’s Knowledge, any director, officer, employee, agent or other person acting on behalf of FSRL, First Reliance Bank or any of its Subsidiaries, is subject to any United States sanctions administered by the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the United States Treasury Department.
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(b) FSRL has implemented one or more policies addressing each of ethics, personal trading policies, conflicts of interest policies, customer privacy policies, anti-money laundering policies, fair lending policies, vendor risk management policies, policies related to compliance with the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977, as amended, and other material policies as may be required by any applicable Law for itself and its Subsidiaries, and a complete and correct copy of each such policy has been made available to CBAN. Such policies comply in all material respects with the requirements of any Laws applicable thereto.
Section 3.41 Mortgage Loan Matters.
Except as set forth on FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.41, at all times while FSRL and its Subsidiaries have been originating and servicing qualified and non-qualified (i.e., not for sale to any public government-sponsored enterprise) residential mortgage loans (collectively, the “Mortgage Loans”), FSRL and its Subsidiaries:
(a) has all licenses necessary to carry on its business as now being conducted and is licensed, qualified and in good standing in the states where each Mortgaged Property is located if the laws of such state require licensing or qualification in order to conduct business of the type conducted by it;
(b) has developed policies and procedures governing the origination of Mortgage Loans, including, but not limited to, ability to repay, analysis of gift letters and evaluation of financial statements from borrowers, use of third-party brokers, and independent quality control, and is in compliance with such policies and procedures in all material respects;
(c) utilized origination, collection and servicing practices with respect to the Mortgage Loans that have been in all material respects legal, in compliance with all applicable Laws, and customary in the mortgage origination and servicing industry, and the collection and servicing practices have been consistent with Customary Servicing Procedures;
(d) to the Knowledge of FSRL, has not been the subject of allegations of material failure to comply with applicable loan origination, servicing or claims procedures, in its most recent audits (if any);
(e) has in full force and effect an adequate errors and omissions policy or policies with respect to its origination and servicing operations and a standard mortgage banker’s blanket bond;
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(f) is an approved Fannie Mae Seller Servicer in good standing and is in material compliance with the provisions of the Fannie Mae Guide; and
(g) is an approved Freddie Mac Seller Servicer in good standing and is in material compliance with the provisions of the Freddie Mac Guide.
Section 3.42 SBA Matters.
At all times while FSRL and its Subsidiaries have been originating and servicing SBA Loans, FSRL and its Subsidiaries (a) is and was approved and in good standing, as required, as an issuer and servicer of SBA Loans, (b) has not received any written notice of any cancellation or suspension of, or material limitation on, its status as a licensee or as an approved issuer, seller/servicer or lender, as applicable, from the SBA, (c) holds and at all relevant times held in good standing all required approvals, permits and licenses of the SBA that are necessary to the conduct of the SBA-related business of FSRL and each of its Subsidiaries, as applicable, and (d) were and are in material compliance with the SBA’s Standard Operating Procedures.
Section 3.43 No Other Representations or Warranties.
Except for the representations and warranties made by FSRL in this Article III and for the disclosures contained in the FSRL Disclosure Schedule, neither FSRL nor any other person makes any express or implied representation or warranty with respect to FSRL, its Subsidiaries or their respective businesses, operations, assets, liabilities, conditions (financial or otherwise) or prospects, and FSRL hereby disclaims any such other representations or warranties. FSRL acknowledges and agrees that neither CBAN nor any other person has made or is making any express or implied representation or warranty other than those contained in Article IV and in the CBAN Disclosure Schedule.
Article
IV
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF CBAN
Except as set forth in the disclosure schedule delivered by CBAN to FSRL prior to or concurrently with the execution of this Agreement with respect to each such Section below (the “CBAN Disclosure Schedule”); provided, that (a) the mere inclusion of an item in the CBAN Disclosure Schedule as an exception to a representation or warranty shall not be deemed an admission by CBAN that such item represents a material exception or fact, event or circumstance or that such item is reasonably likely to result in a Material Adverse Effect on CBAN, and (b) any disclosures made with respect to a section of Article IV shall be deemed to qualify (i) any other section of Article IV specifically referenced or cross-referenced and (ii) other sections of Article IV to the extent it is reasonably apparent on its face (notwithstanding the absence of a specific cross reference) from a reading of the disclosure that such disclosure applies to such other sections, CBAN hereby represents and warrants to FSRL as follows:
Section 4.01 Organization and Standing.
Each of CBAN and its Subsidiaries is (a) an entity duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its incorporation or formation and (b) is duly licensed or qualified to do business and in good standing in each jurisdiction where its ownership or leasing of property or the conduct of its business requires such qualification, except where the failure to be so licensed or qualified has not had, and is not reasonably likely to have, a Material Adverse Effect with respect to CBAN.
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Section 4.02 Capital Stock.
The authorized capital stock of CBAN consists of 50,000,000 shares of CBAN Common Stock, and 10,000,000 shares of preferred stock. As of the date hereof, 21,158,353 shares of CBAN Common Stock were issued and outstanding and no shares of preferred stock were issued and outstanding. The outstanding shares of CBAN Common Stock have been duly authorized and validly issued and are fully paid and non-assessable and have not been issued in violation of nor are they subject to preemptive rights of any CBAN shareholder. The shares of CBAN Common Stock to be issued pursuant to this Agreement, when issued in accordance with the terms of this Agreement, will be duly authorized, validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable and will not be subject to preemptive rights. All shares of CBAN’s capital stock issued and outstanding have been issued in compliance with and not in violation of any applicable federal or state securities Laws.
Section 4.03 Corporate Power.
(a) CBAN and each of its Subsidiaries has the corporate or similar power and authority to carry on its business as it is now being conducted and to own all of its properties and assets; and CBAN has the corporate power and authority to execute, deliver and perform its obligations under this Agreement and to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby, subject to receipt of all Regulatory Approvals and the Requisite CBAN Shareholder Approval.
(b) CBAN has made available to FSRL a complete and correct copy of its articles of incorporation and bylaws or equivalent organizational documents, each as amended to date, of CBAN and each of its Subsidiaries. Neither CBAN nor any of its Subsidiaries is in violation of any of the terms of its articles of incorporation, bylaws or equivalent organizational documents.
Section 4.04 Corporate Authority.
Except for the approval of this Agreement and of the transactions contemplated hereby, including but not limited to the Requisite CBAN Shareholder Approval, and the adoption and approval of the Bank Merger Agreement by CBAN as Colony Bank’s sole shareholder, no other corporate proceedings on the part of CBAN are necessary to approve this Agreement or to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby. CBAN has duly executed and delivered this Agreement and, assuming due authorization, execution and delivery by FSRL, this Agreement is a valid and legally binding obligation of CBAN, enforceable in accordance with its terms, subject to the Enforceability Exception.
Section 4.05 SEC Documents; Financial Statements.
(a) CBAN has filed all required reports, forms, schedules, registration statements and other documents with the SEC that it has been required to file since January 1, 2023 (the “CBAN Reports”), and has paid all fees and assessments due and payable in connection therewith, except where the failure to file such required reports, forms, schedules, registration statements, and other documents or pay such fees and assessments has not had or would not reasonably be expected to have, either individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect on CBAN. As of their respective dates of filing with the SEC (or, if amended or superseded by a subsequent filing prior to the date hereof, as of the date of such subsequent filing), the CBAN Reports complied as to form in all material respects with the requirements of the Securities Act or the Exchange Act, as the case may be, and the rules and regulations of the SEC thereunder applicable to such CBAN Reports, and none of the CBAN Reports when filed with the SEC, or if amended prior to the date hereof, as of the date of such amendment, contained any untrue statement of a material fact or omitted to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading. As of the date of this Agreement, no executive officer of CBAN has failed in any respect to make the certifications required of him or her under Section 302 or 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. As of the date of this Agreement, there are no outstanding comments from or unresolved issues raised by the SEC with respect to any of the CBAN Reports.
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(b) The consolidated financial statements of CBAN (or incorporated by reference) included (or incorporated by reference) in the CBAN Reports (including the related notes, where applicable) complied as to form, as of their respective dates of filing with the SEC (or, if amended or superseded by a subsequent filing prior to the date hereof, as of the date of such subsequent filing), in all material respects, with all applicable accounting requirements and with the published rules and regulations of the SEC with respect thereto (except, in the case of unaudited statements, as permitted by the rules of the SEC), have been prepared in accordance with GAAP applied on a consistent basis during the periods involved (except as may be disclosed therein), and fairly present, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of CBAN and its Subsidiaries and the consolidated results of operations, changes in shareholders’ equity and cash flows of such companies as of the dates and for the periods shown. The books and records of CBAN and its Subsidiaries have been, and are being, maintained in all material respects in accordance with GAAP and any other applicable legal and accounting requirements, reflect only actual transactions and there are no material misstatements, omissions, inaccuracies or discrepancies contained or reflected therein.
(c) CBAN (i) has established and maintained disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting (as such terms are defined in paragraphs (e) and (f), respectively, of Rule 13a-15 under the Exchange Act) as required by Rule 13a-15 under the Exchange Act, and (ii) has disclosed, based on its most recent evaluation, to its outside auditors and the audit committee of CBAN’s board of directors (A) all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) of the Exchange Act) which are reasonably likely to adversely affect CBAN’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial data and (B) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in CBAN’s internal control over financial reporting. These disclosures were made in writing by management to CBAN’s auditors and audit committee. To the Knowledge of CBAN, there is no reason to believe that CBAN’s outside auditors and its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer will not be able to give the certifications and attestations required pursuant to the rules and regulations adopted pursuant to Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, without qualification, when next due, if required.
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(d) Since January 1, 2026, neither CBAN nor any of its Subsidiaries nor, to CBAN’s Knowledge, any director, officer, employee, auditor, accountant or representative of CBAN or any of its Subsidiaries has received, or otherwise had or obtained Knowledge of, any material complaint, allegation, assertion or claim regarding the accounting or auditing practices, procedures, methodologies or methods of CBAN or any of its Subsidiaries or their respective internal accounting controls, including any material complaint, allegation, assertion or claim that CBAN or any of its Subsidiaries has engaged in questionable accounting or auditing practices.
Section 4.06 Regulatory Reports.
Since January 1, 2023, CBAN and each of its Subsidiaries has timely filed with the SEC, FRB, FDIC, any SRO and any other applicable Governmental Authority, in correct form, all reports, registration statements and other documents required to be filed under applicable Laws and regulations and have paid all fees and assessments due and payable in connection therewith, and such reports were complete and accurate and in compliance in all material respects with the requirements of applicable Laws and regulations, except where the failure to file such report or statement or to pay such fees and assessments, either individually or in the aggregate, would not reasonably be likely to have a Material Adverse Effect with respect to CBAN. Except for normal examinations conducted by a Governmental Authority in the regular course of the business of CBAN and its Subsidiaries, no Governmental Authority has notified CBAN that it has initiated or has pending any proceeding or, to the Knowledge of CBAN threatened an investigation into the business or operations of CBAN or any of its Subsidiaries since January 1, 2023, except where such proceedings or investigation would not reasonably be likely to have, either individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect with respect to CBAN. Subject to Section 9.11, there is no unresolved violation, criticism or exception by any Governmental Authority with respect to any report filed by, or relating to any examinations or inspections by any such Governmental Authority of CBAN or any of its Subsidiaries which would reasonably be likely to have, either individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect with respect to CBAN.
Section 4.07 Regulatory Approvals; No Defaults.
No consents or approvals of, or waivers by, or filings or registrations with, any Governmental Authority are required to be made or obtained by CBAN or any of its Subsidiaries in connection with the execution, delivery or performance by CBAN of this Agreement or to consummate the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, including the Bank Merger, except for (a) the Regulatory Approvals, (b) the filing with the SEC and the filing and declaration of effectiveness of the Registration Statement, (c) the Requisite CBAN Shareholder Approval, (d) the filing of the Articles of Merger contemplated by Section 1.04(a) and the filing of documents with the FDIC, the Secretary of State of the State of Georgia, the Secretary of State of the State of South Carolina, or other applicable state or federal banking agencies to cause the Bank Merger to become effective, (e) such other filings and reports as required pursuant to the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, or applicable stock exchange requirements, (f) any consents, authorizations, approvals, filings or exemptions in connection with compliance with the rules and regulations of any applicable SRO and the rules of the NYSE and (g) such filings and approvals as are required to be made or obtained under the securities or “Blue Sky” laws of various states in connection with the CBAN Common Stock Issuance and approval of listing of such CBAN Common Stock on the NYSE. Subject to the receipt of the approvals referred to in the preceding sentence, the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby by CBAN do not and will not, (i) constitute a breach or violation of, or a default under, the articles of incorporation and bylaws of CBAN, (ii) violate any statute, code, ordinance, rule, regulation, judgment, order, writ, decree or injunction applicable to CBAN or any of its Subsidiaries, or any of their respective properties or assets, or (iii) violate, result in a breach of any provision of or the loss of any benefit under, constitute a default (or an event which, with notice or lapse of time, or both, would constitute a default) under, result in the termination of or a right of termination or cancellation under, accelerate the performance required by, or result in the creation of any Lien upon any of the respective properties or assets of CBAN or any of its Subsidiaries under, any of the terms, conditions or provisions of any note, bond, mortgage, indenture, deed of trust, license, lease, contract, agreement or other instrument or obligation to which CBAN or any of its Subsidiaries is a party, or by which they or any of their respective properties or assets may be bound. As of the date hereof, CBAN has no Knowledge of any reason (A) why the Regulatory Approvals and other necessary consents and approvals will not be received in order to permit consummation of the Merger and Bank Merger on a timely basis and (B) why a Burdensome Condition would be imposed.
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Section 4.08 CBAN Information.
The information relating to CBAN and its Subsidiaries that is supplied by or on behalf of CBAN for inclusion or incorporation by reference in the Proxy Statement-Prospectus and the Registration Statement will not (with respect to the Proxy Statement-Prospectus, as of the date the Proxy Statement-Prospectus is first mailed to FSRL shareholders and as of the date of the FSRL Meeting, and with respect to the Registration Statement, as of the time the Registration Statement or any amendment or supplement thereto is declared effective under the Securities Act) contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances in which they are made, not misleading; provided, however, that any information contained in any CBAN Report as of a later date shall be deemed to modify information as of an earlier date. The portions of the Proxy Statement-Prospectus relating to CBAN and CBAN’s Subsidiaries and other portions thereof within the reasonable control of CBAN and its Subsidiaries will comply as to form in all material respects with the provisions of the Exchange Act, and the rules and regulations thereunder.
Section 4.09 Absence of Certain Changes or Events.
Except as reflected or disclosed in CBAN’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 or in the CBAN Reports since December 31, 2025, as filed with the SEC, there has been no change or development with respect to CBAN and its assets and business or combination of such changes or developments which, individually or in the aggregate, has had or is reasonably likely to have a Material Adverse Effect with respect to CBAN.
Section 4.10 Compliance with Laws.
(a) CBAN and each of its Subsidiaries is, and has been since January 1, 2023, in compliance in all material respects with all applicable federal, state, local and foreign Laws, rules, judgments, orders or decrees applicable thereto or to the employees conducting such businesses, including, without limitation, Laws related to data protection or privacy, the USA PATRIOT Act, the Bank Secrecy Act, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, the Fair Housing Act, the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act, the Community Reinvestment Act, the Fair Credit Reporting Act, the Truth in Lending Act, the Dodd-Frank Act, Sections 23A and 23B of the Federal Reserve Act, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act or the regulations implementing such statutes, all other applicable anti-money laundering Laws, fair lending Laws and other Laws relating to discriminatory lending, financing, leasing or business practices and all agency requirements relating to the origination, sale and servicing of mortgage loans. Since January 1, 2023, neither CBAN nor any of its Subsidiaries has been advised of any supervisory concerns regarding their compliance with the Bank Secrecy Act or related state or federal anti-money laundering laws, regulations and guidelines, including without limitation those provisions of federal regulations requiring (i) the filing of reports, such as Currency Transaction Reports and Suspicious Activity Reports, (ii) the maintenance of records and (iii) the exercise of due diligence in identifying customers.
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(b) CBAN and each of its Subsidiaries have all material permits, licenses, authorizations, orders and approvals of, and each has made all filings and applications and registrations with, all Governmental Authorities that are required in order to permit it to own or lease its properties and to conduct its business as presently conducted. All such permits, licenses, certificates of authority, orders and approvals are in full force and effect and, to CBAN’s Knowledge, no suspension or cancellation of any of them is threatened.
(c) Neither CBAN nor any of its Subsidiaries has received, since January 1, 2023, written or, to CBAN’s Knowledge, oral notification from any Governmental Authority (i) asserting that it is not in compliance with any of the Laws which such Governmental Authority enforces or (ii) threatening to revoke any license, franchise, permit or governmental authorization (nor, to CBAN’s Knowledge, do any grounds for any of the foregoing exist), except where such noncompliance of threatened revocation is not reasonably likely to have, a Material Adverse Effect with respect to CBAN.
Section 4.11 CBAN Regulatory Matters.
(a) CBAN is regulated as a bank holding company under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended.
(b) Colony Bank is an “insured depositary institution” as defined in the FDIA, the deposits of Colony Bank are insured by the FDIC in accordance with FDIA to the fullest extent permitted by Law, and Colony Bank has paid all premiums and assessments and filed all reports required by the FDIA. No proceedings for the revocation or termination of such deposit insurance are pending or, to CBAN’s Knowledge, threatened. Colony Bank received a rating of “satisfactory” in its most recent examination under the Community Reinvestment Act.
(c) Subject to Section 9.11, since January 1, 2023, neither CBAN nor any of its Subsidiaries is party to, or the subject of, any cease-and-desist order, consent order, written agreement, order for civil money penalty, refund, restitution, prompt corrective action directive, memorandum of understanding, supervisory letter, individual minimum capital requirement, operating agreement, or any other formal or informal enforcement action issued or required by, or entered into with, any Governmental Authority. Neither CBAN nor any of its Subsidiaries has made, adopted, or implemented any commitment, board resolution, policy, or procedure at the request or recommendation of any Governmental Authority that limits in any material respect the conduct of its business or that in any material manner relates to its capital adequacy, its payment of dividends or distribution of capital, its credit or risk management, its compliance program, its management, its growth, or its business. Neither CBAN nor any of its Subsidiaries has Knowledge that any Governmental Authority is considering issuing, initiating, ordering, requesting, recommending, or otherwise proceeding with any of the items referenced in this paragraph.
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Section 4.12 Brokers.
Neither CBAN nor any of its officers, directors or any of its Subsidiaries has employed any broker or finder or incurred, nor will it incur, any liability for any broker’s fees, commissions or finder’s fees in connection with any of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, except that CBAN has engaged, and will pay a fee or commission to Keefe, Bruyette & Woods.
Section 4.13 Legal Proceedings.
(a) Neither CBAN nor any of its Subsidiaries is a party to any, and there are no pending or, to CBAN’s Knowledge, threatened, legal, administrative, arbitral or other proceedings, claims, actions or governmental or regulatory investigations of any nature against CBAN or any of its Subsidiaries or any of their current or former directors or executive officers in their capacities as such that is reasonably likely to have a Material Adverse Effect on CBAN, or challenging the validity or propriety of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
(b) Subject to Section 9.11, except as would not reasonably be expected to have, either individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect on CBAN, there is no material injunction, order, judgment, decree or regulatory restriction (other than regulatory restrictions of general application to banks and bank holding companies) imposed upon CBAN, any of its Subsidiaries or the assets of CBAN or any of its Subsidiaries (or that, upon consummation of the Merger or the Bank Merger would apply to the Surviving Entity or any of its Subsidiaries or affiliates).
Section 4.14 Tax Matters.
Neither CBAN nor any of its Subsidiaries has taken or agreed to take any action, or is aware of any fact or circumstance, that would be reasonably likely to prevent the Merger or the Bank Merger from qualifying for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a “reorganization” within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code.
Section 4.15 Agreements with Regulatory Agencies.
Neither CBAN nor any of its Subsidiaries is subject to any cease-and-desist or other order issued by, or is a party to any written agreement, consent agreement or memorandum of understanding with, or is a party to any commitment letter or similar undertaking to, or is a recipient of any extraordinary supervisory letter from, or is subject to any order or directive by, or has adopted any board resolutions at the request of any Governmental Authority (each a “CBAN Regulatory Agreement”) that restricts, or by its terms will in the future restrict, the conduct of CBAN’s or any of its Subsidiaries’ business or that in any manner relates to their capital adequacy, credit or risk management policies, dividend policies, management, business or operations, nor has CBAN or any of its Subsidiaries been advised by any Governmental Authority that it is considering issuing, initiating, ordering, requesting, recommending, or otherwise proceeding with (or is considering the appropriateness of any of the aforementioned actions) any CBAN Regulatory Agreement. To CBAN’s Knowledge, there are no investigations relating to any regulatory matters pending before any Governmental Authority with respect to CBAN or any of its Subsidiaries.
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Section 4.16 Regulatory Capitalization.
CBAN and its Subsidiaries are “well-capitalized,” as such term is defined in the applicable state and federal rules and regulations.
Section 4.17 Community Reinvestment Act, Anti-money Laundering and Customer Information Security.
Neither CBAN nor any of its Subsidiaries is a party to any agreement with any individual or group regarding Community Reinvestment Act matters and neither CBAN nor any of its Subsidiaries has Knowledge that any facts or circumstances exist which would cause CBAN or any of its Subsidiaries: (i) to be deemed not to be in satisfactory compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act, and the regulations promulgated thereunder, or to be assigned a rating for Community Reinvestment Act purposes by federal or state bank regulators of lower than “satisfactory”; or (ii) to be deemed to be operating in violation of the Bank Secrecy Act and its implementing regulations (31 C.F.R. Part 103), the USA PATRIOT Act, any order issued with respect to anti-money laundering by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control, or any other applicable anti-money laundering statute, rule or regulation; or (iii) to be deemed not to be in satisfactory compliance with the applicable privacy of customer information requirements contained in any federal and state privacy Laws and regulations, including, without limitation, in Title V of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act of 1999 and regulations promulgated thereunder. Furthermore, the boards of directors of CBAN and its Subsidiaries has implemented an anti-money laundering program that contains adequate and appropriate customer identification verification procedures that has not been deemed ineffective by any Governmental Authority and that meets the requirements of Sections 352 and 326 of the USA PATRIOT Act.
Section 4.18 Loans.
As of the date hereof, each Loan held in CBAN’s or any of its Subsidiaries’ loan portfolio, except as would not reasonably be expected to have, either individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect with respect to CBAN, (i) at the time and under the circumstances in which made, was made for good, valuable and adequate consideration in the ordinary course of business and are the legal and binding obligations of the obligors thereof (except as enforcement against the obligors may be limited by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium, or similar Laws relating to or affecting the enforcement of creditors’ rights generally, and subject to general principals of equity which may limit the enforcement of certain remedies), (ii) is evidenced by genuine notes, agreements, or other evidences of indebtedness, (iii) was made in accordance with the lending policies and underwriting standards of Colony Bank, and (iv) to the extent secured, have been secured, to the Knowledge of CBAN, by valid Liens and security interests which have been perfected.
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Section 4.19 No Financing
CBAN has and will have as of the Effective Time, without having to resort to external sources, sufficient capital to effect the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
Section 4.20 Benefits.
(a) For purposes of this Agreement, “CBAN Benefit Plans” means all benefit and compensation plans, contracts, policies or arrangements (i) covering current or former employees of CBAN or any of its Subsidiaries, (ii) covering current or former directors of CBAN or any of its Subsidiaries, or (iii) with respect to which CBAN, any of its Subsidiaries, Controlled Group Members, or ERISA Affiliates has or may have any liability or contingent liability including, but not limited to, “employee benefit plans” within the meaning of Section 3(3) of ERISA, health/welfare, employment, severance, change-of-control, fringe benefit, deferred compensation, defined benefit plan, defined contribution plan, stock option, stock purchase, stock appreciation rights, stock based, incentive, bonus plans, retirement plans and other policies, plans or arrangements whether or not subject to ERISA.
(b) All CBAN Benefit Plans are in compliance in all material respects in form and operation with all applicable Laws, including ERISA and the Code. All CBAN Benefit Plans have been administered in all material respects in accordance with their terms. There is no pending or, to CBAN’s Knowledge, threatened litigation or regulatory action relating to the CBAN Benefit Plans. Neither CBAN nor any of its Subsidiaries has engaged in a transaction with respect to any CBAN Benefit Plan that could reasonably be expected to subject CBAN or any of its Subsidiaries to a tax or penalty under Section 4975 of the Code or Section 502(i) of ERISA. There are no audits, inquiries, investigations, or proceedings pending or, to CBAN’s Knowledge, threatened by any Governmental Authority, or participant claims (other than claims for benefits in the normal course of business), with respect to any CBAN Benefit Plan. Neither CBAN nor any administrator or fiduciary of any CBAN Benefit Plan (or any agent of any of the foregoing) that is an employee of CBAN has engaged in any transaction, or acted or failed to act in any manner with respect to any CBAN Benefit Plan that could subject it to any direct or indirect material liability (by indemnity or otherwise) for breach of any fiduciary, co-fiduciary, or other duty under ERISA.
Section 4.21 No Other Representations or Warranties.
Except for the representations and warranties made by CBAN in this Article IV and for the disclosures contained in the CBAN Disclosure Schedule, neither CBAN nor any other person makes any express or implied representation or warranty with respect to CBAN, its Subsidiaries or their respective businesses, operations, assets, liabilities, conditions (financial or otherwise) or prospects, and CBAN hereby disclaims any such other representations or warranties. CBAN acknowledges and agrees that neither FSRL nor any other person has made or is making any express or implied representation or warranty other than those contained in Article III and in the FSRL Disclosure Schedule.
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Article V
COVENANTS
Section 5.01 Covenants of FSRL.
During the period from the date of this Agreement and continuing until the Effective Time or the earlier termination of this Agreement in accordance with its terms, except as expressly contemplated or permitted by this Agreement (including as set forth in the FSRL Disclosure Schedule), required by Law or with the prior written consent of CBAN (which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed), FSRL shall carry on its business, including the business of each of its Subsidiaries, in the Ordinary Course of Business in all material respects and consistent with prudent banking practice. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, FSRL will use its commercially reasonable best efforts to (i) preserve its business organizations and assets intact, (ii) keep available to itself and CBAN the present services of the current officers and employees of FSRL and its Subsidiaries, (iii) preserve for itself and CBAN the goodwill of its customers, employees, lessors and others with whom business relationships exist, and (iv) continue diligent collection efforts with respect to any delinquent loans and, to the extent within its control, not allow any material increase in delinquent loans. Without limiting the generality of and in furtherance of the foregoing, from the date of this Agreement until the Effective Time, except (w) as set forth in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 5.01, (x) as required by applicable Law or Governmental Authority, (y) as otherwise expressly required by this Agreement, or (z) consented to in writing by CBAN (which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed), FSRL shall not and shall not permit its Subsidiaries to:
(a) Stock. (i) Issue, sell, grant, pledge, dispose of, encumber or otherwise permit to become outstanding, or authorize the creation of, any additional shares of its stock, any Rights, any new award or grant under the FSRL Stock Plans or otherwise, or any other securities (including units of beneficial ownership interest in any partnership or limited liability company), or enter into any agreement with respect to the foregoing, (ii) except as expressly permitted by this Agreement, accelerate the vesting of any existing Rights, or (iii) except as expressly permitted by this Agreement, directly or indirectly change (or establish a record date for changing), adjust, split, combine, redeem, reclassify, exchange, purchase or otherwise acquire any shares of its capital stock, or any other securities (including units of beneficial ownership interest in any partnership or limited liability company) convertible into or exchangeable for any additional shares of stock, any Rights issued and outstanding prior to the Effective Time.
(b) Dividends; Other Distributions. Make, declare, pay or set aside for payment of dividends payable in cash, stock or property on or in respect of, or declare or make any distribution on, any shares of its capital stock, except for dividends from wholly-owned Subsidiaries to FSRL.
(c) Compensation; Employment Agreements, Etc. Enter into or amend or renew any employment, consulting, compensatory, severance, retention or similar agreements or arrangements with any director, officer or employee of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries, or grant any salary, wage or fee increase or increase any employee benefit or pay any incentive or bonus payments, except, in each case, (i) normal increases in base salary to employees in the Ordinary Course of Business and pursuant to policies currently in effect, provided that, such increases shall not result in an annual adjustment in base compensation (which includes base salary and any other compensation other than bonus payments) of more than 5% for any individual or 3% in the aggregate for all employees of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries other than annual increases in base compensation and year-end bonuses disclosed in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 5.01(c), (ii) as specifically provided for by this Agreement (including, without limitation, as contemplated by Section 5.11 of this Agreement), (iii) as may be required by Law, (iv) to satisfy the contractual obligations existing as of the date hereof set forth on FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.16(l), or (iv) as otherwise set forth in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 5.01(c).
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(d) Hiring. (i) Hire any person as an employee or officer of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries, except for at-will employment at an annual rate of base salary not to exceed $100,000 to fill vacancies that may arise from time to time in the Ordinary Course of Business, or (ii) promote any employee except to fill vacancies that may arise in the Ordinary Course of Business or to satisfy contractual obligations existing as of the date of this Agreement and set forth on FSRL Disclosure Schedule 5.01(d).
(e) Benefit Plans. Enter into, establish, adopt, amend, modify or terminate (except (i) as may be required by or to make consistent with applicable Law, (ii) to satisfy contractual obligations existing as of the date hereof (iii) as previously disclosed to CBAN and set forth in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 5.01(e), or (iv) as may be required pursuant to the terms of this Agreement (including, without limitation, as contemplated by Section 5.11 of this Agreement)) any FSRL Benefit Plan.
(f) Transactions with Affiliates. Except pursuant to agreements or arrangements in effect on the date hereof and set forth in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 5.01(f), pay, loan or advance any amount to, or sell, transfer or lease any properties or assets (real, personal or mixed, tangible or intangible) to, or enter into any agreement or arrangement with, any of its officers or directors or any of their immediate family members or any Affiliates or Associates of any of its officers or directors other than compensation or business expense advancements or reimbursements in the Ordinary Course of Business.
(g) Dispositions. Except as set forth in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.13(a), sell, license, lease, transfer, mortgage, pledge, encumber or otherwise dispose of or discontinue any of its rights, assets, deposits, business or properties or cancel or release any indebtedness owed to FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries.
(h) Acquisitions. Acquire (other than by way of foreclosures or acquisitions of control in a bona fide fiduciary capacity or in satisfaction of debts previously contracted in good faith, in each case in the Ordinary Course of Business) all or any portion of the assets, debt, business, deposits or properties of any other entity or Person, except for purchases specifically approved by CBAN pursuant to any other applicable paragraph of this Section 5.01.
(i) Capital Expenditures. Except as set forth in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 5.01(i), make any capital expenditures in amounts exceeding $50,000 individually, or $250,000 in the aggregate, provided that CBAN shall grant or deny its consent to emergency repairs or replacements necessary to prevent substantial deterioration of the condition of a property within two (2) Business Days of its receipt of a written request from FSRL.
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(j) Governing Documents. Amend FSRL’s articles of incorporation or bylaws or any equivalent documents of FSRL’s Subsidiaries.
(k) Accounting Methods. Implement or adopt any change in its accounting principles, practices or methods, other than as may be required by applicable Laws or GAAP or applicable accounting requirements of any Governmental Authority, in each case, including changes in the interpretation or enforcement thereof.
(l) Contracts. Enter into, amend, modify, terminate, renew, extend, or waive any material provision of, any FSRL Material Contract, Lease or Insurance Policy, or make any change in any instrument or agreement governing the terms of any of its securities, or material lease, license or contract, or enter into any contract that would constitute a FSRL Material Contract if it were in effect on the date of this Agreement, except for any amendments, modifications or terminations reasonably requested by CBAN.
(m) Claims. Other than settlement of foreclosure actions in the Ordinary Course of Business, (i) enter into any settlement or similar agreement with respect to any action, suit, proceeding, order or investigation to which FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries is or becomes a party after the date of this Agreement, which settlement or agreement involves payment by FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries of an amount which exceeds $50,000 individually or $150,000 in the aggregate and/or would impose any material restriction on the business of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries or (ii) waive or release any material rights or claims, or agree or consent to the issuance of any injunction, decree, order or judgment restricting or otherwise affecting its business or operations.
(n) Banking Operations. (i) Enter into any material new line of business, introduce any material new products or services, any material marketing campaigns or any material new sales compensation or incentive programs or arrangements; (ii) change in any material respect its lending, investment, underwriting, risk and asset liability management and other banking and operating policies, except as required by applicable Law, regulation or policies imposed by any Governmental Authority; (iii) make any material changes in its policies and practices with respect to underwriting, pricing, originating, acquiring, selling, servicing, or buying or selling rights to service Loans, its hedging practices and policies; and (iv) incur any material liability or obligation relating to retail banking and branch merchandising, marketing and advertising activities and initiatives except in the Ordinary Course of Business.
(o) Derivative Transactions. Enter into any Derivative Transaction other than in the Ordinary Course of Business consistent with past practice.
(p) Indebtedness. Incur any indebtedness for borrowed money other than in the Ordinary Course of Business consistent with past practice with a term not in excess of twelve (12) months (other than creation of deposit liabilities or sales of certificates of deposit in the Ordinary Course of Business), or incur, assume or become subject to, whether directly or by way of any guarantee or otherwise, any obligations or liabilities (absolute, accrued, contingent or otherwise) of any other Person, other than the issuance of letters of credit in the Ordinary Course of Business and in accordance with the restrictions set forth in Section 5.01(s).
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(q) Investment Securities. Unless mutually agreed upon by the Parties, (i) other than in the Ordinary Course of Business consistent with past practice, acquire, sell or otherwise dispose of any debt security or equity investment (other than obligations of the government of the United States or agencies of the United States or state or local governments having maturities of not more than five (5) years and which municipal obligations have been assigned a rating of A2 or better by Moody’s Investors Service or A or better by Standard and Poor’s), or any certificates of deposits issued by other banks, nor (ii) change the classification method for any of the FSRL Investment Securities from “held to maturity” to “available for sale” or from “available for sale” to “held to maturity,” as those terms are used in ASC 320.
(r) Deposits. Other than in the Ordinary Course of Business, make any changes to deposit pricing or acquire any “brokered deposits” except for any extensions or renewals of existing brokered deposits.
(s) Loans. Except for loans or extensions of credit approved and/or committed as of the date hereof that are listed in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 5.01(s), (i) make, renew, renegotiate, increase, extend or modify any (A) unsecured loan, if the amount of such unsecured loan, together with any other outstanding unsecured loans made by FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries to such borrower or its Affiliates, would be in excess of $100,000, in the aggregate, (B) loan secured by other than a first lien in excess of $500,000, (C) loan in excess of FFIEC regulatory guidelines relating to loan to value ratios, (D) loan secured by a first lien residential mortgage and with no loan policy exceptions in excess of $750,000, (E) secured loan over $2,000,000, (F) any loan that is not made in conformity with FSRL’s ordinary course lending policies and guidelines in effect as of the date hereof, or (G) loan, whether secured or unsecured, if the amount of such loan, together with any other outstanding loans (without regard to whether such other loans have been advanced or remain to be advanced), would result in the aggregate outstanding loans to any borrower of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries (without regard to whether such other loans have been advanced or remain to be advanced) to exceed $2,000,000, (ii) sell any loan or loan pools in excess of $1,000,000 in principal amount or sale price (other than residential mortgage loan pools sold in the Ordinary Course of Business), or (iii) acquire any servicing rights, or sell or otherwise transfer any loan where FSRL or any its Subsidiaries retains any servicing rights (except for servicing rights acquired or sold in the Ordinary Course of Business with Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac). Any loan in excess of the limits set forth in this Section 5.01(s) shall require the prior written approval of the President or Chief Credit Officer of Colony Bank, which approval or rejection shall be given in writing within one (1) Business Day after the loan package is delivered to such individual.
(t) Investments or Developments in Real Estate. Make any investment or commitment to invest in real estate or in any real estate development project other than by way of foreclosures or deed in lieu thereof or make any investment or commitment to develop, or otherwise take any actions to develop any real estate owned by FSRL or its Subsidiaries.
(u) Taxes. Make or change any material Tax election, file any material amended Tax Return, enter into any material closing agreement with respect to Taxes, settle or compromise any material liability with respect to Taxes, agree to any material adjustment of any Tax attribute, file any claim for a material refund of Taxes, or consent to any extension or waiver of the limitation period applicable to any material Tax claim or assessment, provided that, for purposes of this Section 5.01(u), “material” means affecting or relating to $50,000 or more in Taxes or $150,000 or more of taxable income.
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(v) Tax Treatment of Each of the Merger and the Bank Merger. Take any action that is intended or is reasonably likely to result in either the Merger or the Bank Merger failing to qualify as a “reorganization” under Section 368(a) of the Code.
(w) Compliance with Agreements. Commit any act or omission which constitutes a material breach or default by FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries under any agreement with any Governmental Authority or under any FSRL Material Contract, Lease, the Fannie Mae Seller Guide, the Freddie Mac Seller Guide or other material agreement or material license to which FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries is a party or by which any of them or their respective properties are bound or under which any of them or their respective assets, business, or operations receives benefits.
(x) Environmental Assessments. Foreclose on or take a deed or title to any real estate other than single-family residential properties without first conducting an ASTM International (“ASTM”) E1527-13 Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (or any applicable successor standard) of the property that satisfies the requirements of 40 C.F.R. Part 312 (“Phase I”), or foreclose on or take a deed or title to any real estate other than single-family residential properties if such environmental assessment indicates the presence or likely presence of any Hazardous Substances under conditions that indicate an existing release, a past release, or a material threat of a release of any Hazardous Substances into structures on the property or into the ground, ground water, or surface water of the property.
(y) Adverse Actions. Take any action or knowingly fail to take any action not contemplated by this Agreement that is intended or is reasonably likely to (i) prevent, delay or impair FSRL’s ability to consummate the Merger or the transactions contemplated by this Agreement or (ii) agree to take, make any commitment to take, or adopt any resolutions of its board of directors in support of, any of the actions prohibited by this Section 5.01.
(z) Capital Stock Purchase. Except as required by an FSRL Benefit Plan for purposes of satisfying tax withholding obligations related to the vesting of awards granted thereunder, or otherwise required by the ESOP, directly or indirectly repurchase, redeem or otherwise acquire any shares of its capital stock or any securities convertible into or exercisable for any shares of its capital stock.
(aa) Facilities. Except as required by Law, file any application or make any contract or commitment for the opening, relocation or closing of any, or open, relocate or close any, branch office, loan production or servicing facility or automated banking facility, except for any change that may be requested by CBAN.
(bb) Restructure. Merge or consolidate itself or any of its Subsidiaries with any other Person, or restructure, reorganize or completely or partially liquidate or dissolve it or any of its Subsidiaries.
(cc) Loan Workouts. Compromise, resolve, or otherwise “workout” any delinquent or troubled loan, other than any loan workout in the Ordinary Course of Business.
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(dd) Commitments. (i) Enter into any contract with respect to, or otherwise agree or commit to do, or adopt any resolutions of its board of directors or similar governing body in support of, any of the foregoing or (ii) take any action that is intended or expected to result in any of its representations and warranties set forth in this Agreement being or becoming untrue in any material respect at any time prior to the Effective Time, or in any of the conditions to the Merger not being satisfied in any material respect or in a violation of any provision of this Agreement, except, in every case, as may be required by applicable Law.
Section 5.02 Covenants of CBAN.
(a) Affirmative Covenants. From the date hereof until the Effective Time, CBAN will carry on its business consistent with prudent banking practices and in compliance in all material respects with all applicable Laws.
(b) Negative Covenants. From the date hereof until the Effective Time, except as expressly permitted or contemplated by this Agreement, or as required by applicable law or a Governmental Authority, or with the prior written consent of FSRL during the period from the date of this Agreement to the Effective Time, CBAN shall not, and shall not permit any of its Subsidiaries to:
(i) Take any action or knowingly fail to take any action that is intended or is reasonably likely to result in either the Merger or the Bank Merger failing to qualify as a “reorganization” under Section 368(a) of the Code;
(ii) Take any action or knowingly fail to take any action that is reasonably likely to prevent, delay or impair CBAN’s ability to consummate the Merger or the transactions contemplated by this Agreement or Colony Bank’s ability to consummate the Bank Merger or perform any of its obligations under the Bank Plan of Merger; or
(iii) agree to take, make any commitment to take, or adopt any resolutions of its board of directors in support of, any of the actions prohibited by this Section 5.02.
Section 5.03 Commercially Reasonable Efforts.
Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, each of the Parties agrees to use commercially reasonable efforts in good faith to take, or cause to be taken, all actions, and to do, or cause to be done, all things necessary, proper or advisable under applicable Laws, so as to permit consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby as promptly as practicable, including the satisfaction of the conditions set forth in Article VI, and shall reasonably cooperate with the other Party to that end.
Section 5.04 Shareholder Approvals.
(a) Each of CBAN and FSRL shall call, give notice of, convene and hold a meeting of its shareholders (the “CBAN Meeting” and the “FSRL Meeting,” respectively) as soon as reasonably practicable (subject to applicable notice requirements) after the Registration Statement is declared effective for the purpose of obtaining the Requisite CBAN Shareholder Approval and the Requisite FSRL Shareholder Approval required in connection with this Agreement and the Merger and, if so desired and mutually agreed, upon other matters of the type customarily brought before an annual or special meeting of shareholders to approve a merger agreement or the issuance of shares contemplated thereby (as applicable). The board of directors of each of CBAN and FSRL shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to obtain from the shareholders of CBAN and FSRL, as the case may be, the Requisite CBAN Shareholder Approval, in the case of CBAN, and the Requisite FSRL Shareholder Approval, in the case of FSRL, including by communicating to its respective shareholders its recommendation (and including such recommendation in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus) that they approve this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby, including, with respect to CBAN, the CBAN Common Stock Issuance. CBAN or FSRL shall adjourn or postpone the CBAN Meeting or the FSRL Meeting, as the case may be, if, as of the time for which such meeting is originally scheduled there are insufficient shares of CBAN Common Stock or the FSRL Stock, as the case may be, represented (either in person or by proxy) to constitute a quorum necessary to conduct the business of such meeting, or if on the date of such meeting CBAN or FSRL as applicable, has not received proxies representing a sufficient number of shares necessary to obtain the Requisite CBAN Shareholder Approval or the Requisite FSRL Shareholder Approval. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, unless this Agreement has been terminated in accordance with its terms, each of the CBAN Meeting and FSRL Meeting shall be convened, the CBAN Common Stock Issuance shall be submitted to the shareholders of CBAN, and this Agreement shall be submitted to the shareholders of FSRL, at the CBAN Meeting and FSRL Meeting, respectively, for the purpose of voting on the approval of such proposals and the other matters contemplated hereby, and nothing contained herein shall be deemed to relieve either CBAN or FSRL of such obligation. CBAN and FSRL shall use their commercially reasonable efforts to cooperate to hold the CBAN Meeting and FSRL Meeting as soon as reasonably practicable (subject to applicable notice requirements) after the Registration Statement is declared effective, and to set the same record date for each such meeting.
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(b) Except to the extent provided otherwise in Section 5.09, the board of directors of FSRL shall at all times prior to and during the FSRL Meeting recommend approval of this Agreement by the shareholders of FSRL and the transactions contemplated hereby (including the Merger) and any other matters required to be approved by FSRL’s shareholders for consummation of the Merger and the transactions contemplated hereby (the “FSRL Recommendation”) and shall not withhold, withdraw, amend, modify, change or qualify such recommendation in a manner adverse in any respect to the interests of CBAN or take any other action or make any other public statement inconsistent with such recommendation and the Proxy Statement-Prospectus shall include the FSRL Recommendation. FSRL shall not take any action that would constitute a “FSRL Subsequent Determination,” including publicly proposing to change, qualify, withhold or withdraw the FSRL Recommendation, or adopting, approving or recommending any alternative transaction. In the event that there is present at such meeting, in person or by proxy, sufficient favorable voting power to secure the Requisite FSRL Shareholder Approval, FSRL will not adjourn or postpone the FSRL Meeting unless FSRL is advised by counsel that failure to do so would result in a breach of the fiduciary duties of the board of directors of FSRL. FSRL shall keep CBAN updated with respect to the proxy solicitation results in connection with the FSRL Meeting as reasonably requested by CBAN.
(c) The board of directors of CBAN shall at all times prior to and during the CBAN Meeting recommend approval of the CBAN Common Stock Issuance by the shareholders of CBAN and any other matters required to be approved by CBAN’s shareholders for the CBAN Common Stock Issuance (the “CBAN Recommendation”) and shall not withhold, withdraw, amend, modify, change or qualify such recommendation in a manner adverse in any respect to the interests of FSRL or take any other action or make any other public statement inconsistent with such recommendation and the Proxy Statement-Prospectus shall include such recommendation. In the event that there is present at such meeting, in person or by proxy, sufficient favorable voting power to secure the Requisite CBAN Shareholder Approval, CBAN will not adjourn or postpone the CBAN Meeting unless CBAN is advised by counsel that failure to do so would result in a breach of the fiduciary duties of the board of directors of CBAN. CBAN shall keep FSRL updated with respect to the proxy solicitation results in connection with the CBAN Meeting as reasonably requested by FSRL.
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Section 5.05 Registration Statement; Proxy Statement-Prospectus; NYSE Listing.
(a) CBAN and FSRL agree to cooperate in the preparation of the Registration Statement. FSRL shall use its reasonable best efforts to deliver to CBAN such financial statements and related analysis of FSRL, including “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” of FSRL, as may be required in order to file the Registration Statement, and any other report required to be filed by CBAN with the SEC, in each case, in compliance in all material respects with applicable Laws, and shall, as promptly as practicable following execution of this Agreement, prepare and deliver drafts of such information to CBAN to review. Subject to FSRL’s cooperation as provided in this Section 5.05(a), within sixty (60) days of the date of this Agreement, CBAN shall file with the SEC the Registration Statement. Each of CBAN and FSRL agree to use their respective commercially reasonable efforts to cause the Registration Statement to be declared effective by the SEC as promptly as reasonably practicable after the filing thereof and to maintain such effectiveness for as long as necessary to consummate the Merger and the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement. CBAN also agrees to use commercially reasonable efforts to obtain any necessary state securities Law or “blue sky” permits and approvals required to carry out the transactions contemplated by this Agreement. FSRL agrees to cooperate with CBAN and CBAN’s counsel and accountants in requesting and obtaining appropriate opinions, consents and letters from FSRL’s independent auditors in connection with the Registration Statement and the Proxy Statement-Prospectus. After the Registration Statement is declared effective under the Securities Act, FSRL, at its sole expense, shall promptly mail or cause to be mailed the Proxy Statement-Prospectus to its shareholders.
(b) CBAN will advise FSRL, promptly after CBAN receives notice thereof, of the time when the Registration Statement has become effective or any supplement or amendment has been filed, of the issuance of any stop order or the suspension of the qualification of CBAN Common Stock for offering or sale in any jurisdiction, of the initiation or threat of any proceeding for any such purpose, or of any request by the SEC for the amendment or supplement of the Registration Statement or upon the receipt of any comments (whether written or oral) from the SEC or its staff. CBAN will provide FSRL and its counsel with a reasonable opportunity to review and comment on the Registration Statement and the Proxy Statement-Prospectus, and all responses to requests for additional information by and replies to comments of the SEC prior to filing such with, or sending such to, the SEC, and CBAN will provide FSRL and its counsel with a copy of all such filings made with the SEC. If at any time prior to the Effective Time there shall occur any event that should be disclosed in an amendment or supplement to the Proxy Statement-Prospectus or the Registration Statement so that either such document would not include any misstatement of a material fact or omit to state any material fact necessary to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading, CBAN shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to promptly prepare and file such amendment or supplement with the SEC (if required under applicable Law) and cooperate with FSRL to mail such amendment or supplement to FSRL shareholders (if required under applicable Law).
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(c) CBAN will use its commercially reasonable efforts to cause the shares of CBAN Common Stock to be issued in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement to be approved for listing on NYSE, subject to official notice of issuance, prior to the Effective Time.
Section 5.06 Regulatory Filings; Consents.
(a) Each of CBAN and FSRL and their respective Subsidiaries shall cooperate and use their respective reasonable best efforts (i) to promptly prepare all documentation (including the Registration Statement and the Proxy Statement-Prospectus), and to effect all filings, to obtain all permits, consents, approvals and authorizations of all third parties and Governmental Authorities necessary to consummate the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, the Regulatory Approvals and all other consents and approvals of a Governmental Authority required to consummate the Merger in the manner contemplated herein, (ii) to comply with the terms and conditions of such permits, consents, approvals and authorizations and (iii) to cause the transactions contemplated by this Agreement to be consummated as expeditiously as practicable, including obtaining all necessary, proper or advisable approvals, authorizations, actions or non-actions, waivers, permits, consents, qualifications and exemptions from Governmental Authorities and all non-governmental Persons, and executing and delivering any additional documents or instruments reasonably necessary, proper or advisable to consummate the transactions contemplated by, and to fully carry out the purposes of, this Agreement; provided, however, notwithstanding the foregoing or anything to the contrary in this Agreement, nothing contained herein shall be deemed to require CBAN or any of its Subsidiaries or FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries to take any non-standard action, or commit to take any such action, or agree to any non-standard condition or restriction, in connection with obtaining the foregoing permits, consents, approvals and authorizations of any Governmental Authority that would reasonably be likely to have a material and adverse effect (measured on a scale relative to FSRL) on the condition (financial or otherwise), results of operations, liquidity, assets or deposit liabilities, properties or business of CBAN, FSRL, the Surviving Entity or the Surviving Bank, after giving effect to the Merger (“Burdensome Condition”). CBAN and FSRL will furnish each other and each other’s counsel with all information concerning themselves, their Subsidiaries, directors, trustees, officers and shareholders and such other matters as may be necessary or advisable in connection with any application, petition or any other statement or application made by or on behalf of CBAN or FSRL to any Governmental Authority in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement. Each Party shall have the right to review and approve in advance all characterizations of the information relating to such party and any of its Subsidiaries that appear in any filing made in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement with any Governmental Authority. In addition, CBAN and FSRL shall each furnish to the other for review a copy of each non-confidential portion of such filing made in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement with any Governmental Authority prior to its filing. Without limiting the foregoing, FSRL and CBAN shall use their reasonable best efforts to obtain and shall cooperate with each other in obtaining the Fannie Mae’s, Freddie Mac’s and the SBA’s respective authorizations to transfer FSRL’s Fannie Mae Seller Servicer approval, Freddie Mae Seller Servicer approval and SBA lender approval to CBAN.
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(b) FSRL will use its reasonable best efforts, and CBAN shall reasonably cooperate with FSRL at FSRL’s request, to obtain all consents, approvals, authorizations, waivers or similar affirmations described on FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.13(c) or that are otherwise required to be obtained under the terms of any FSRL Material Contract in order to prevent the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement from constituting a default under such FSRL Material Contract or creating any lien, claim, or charge upon any of the assets of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries. Each Party will notify the other Party promptly and shall promptly furnish the other Party with copies of notices or other communications received by such Party or any of its Subsidiaries of any communication from any Person alleging that the consent of such Person (or another Person) is or may be required in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (and the response thereto from such Party, its Subsidiaries or its representatives). FSRL will consult with CBAN and its representatives as often as practicable under the circumstances so as to permit FSRL and CBAN and their respective representatives to cooperate to take appropriate measures to obtain such consents and avoid or mitigate any adverse consequences that may result from the foregoing.
(c) Each Party shall have the right to review in advance, and, to the extent reasonably practicable, consult with the other Party, subject to applicable Law, confidentiality obligations and regulatory requirements and without delaying any required filing, all information relating to such Party or any of its Subsidiaries that appears in any filing made with, or written materials submitted to, any Governmental Authority in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
Section 5.07 Publicity.
CBAN and FSRL shall consult with each other before issuing any press release with respect to this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby and shall not issue any such press release or make any such public statement without the prior consent of the other Party, which shall not be unreasonably delayed or withheld; provided, however, that a party may, without the prior consent of the other party (but after such consultation, to the extent practicable in the circumstances), issue such press release or make such public statements as may upon the advice of counsel be required by Law or the rules and regulations of any stock exchanges. It is understood that CBAN shall assume primary responsibility for the preparation of joint press releases relating to this Agreement, the Merger and the other transactions contemplated hereby.
Section 5.08 Access; Current Information.
(a) For the purposes of verifying the representations and warranties of the other and preparing for the Merger and the other matters contemplated by this Agreement, upon reasonable notice and subject to applicable Laws, FSRL agrees to afford CBAN and its officers, employees, counsel, accountants and other authorized representatives such access during normal business hours at any time and from time to time throughout the period prior to the Effective Time to FSRL’s and its Subsidiaries’ books, records (including, without limitation, Tax Returns and work papers of independent auditors), information technology systems, business, properties and personnel and to such other information relating to them as CBAN may reasonably request and FSRL shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to provide any appropriate notices to employees and/or customers in accordance with applicable Law and FSRL’s privacy policy and, during such period, FSRL shall furnish to CBAN, upon CBAN’s reasonable request, all such other information concerning the business, properties and personnel of FSRL and its Subsidiaries that is substantially similar in scope to the information provided to CBAN in connection with its diligence review prior to the date of this Agreement. Within thirty (30) days of the date of this Agreement, FSRL will furnish to CBAN true and complete copies of all deeds and other documentation evidencing ownership of the real properties set forth in FSRL Disclosure Schedule Section 3.31(a), and complete copies of the title insurance policies and surveys for each property, together with any mortgages, deeds of trust, and security agreements to which such property is subject.
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(b) For the purposes of verifying the representations and warranties of the other and preparing for the Merger and the other matters contemplated by this Agreement, during the period of time from the date of this Agreement to the Effective Time, upon reasonable notice and subject to applicable Laws, CBAN agrees to furnish to FSRL such information as FSRL may reasonably request concerning the business of CBAN and its Subsidiaries that is substantially similar in scope to the information provided to FSRL in connection with its diligence review prior to the date of this Agreement.
(c) As promptly as reasonably practicable after they become available, FSRL will furnish to CBAN copies of the board packages distributed to the board of directors of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries, and minutes from the meetings thereof, copies of any internal management financial control reports showing actual financial performance against plan and previous period, and copies of any reports provided to the board of directors of FSRL or any committee thereof relating to the financial performance and risk management of FSRL.
(d) During the period from the date of this Agreement to the Effective Time, at the reasonable request of either Party, the other Party will cause one or more of its designated representatives to confer with representatives of the Requesting Party and to report the general status of the ongoing operations of the other Party and its Subsidiaries. Without limiting the foregoing, FSRL agrees to provide to CBAN (i) to the extent permitted by applicable Law, a copy of each report filed by FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries with a Governmental Authority, (ii) a copy of FSRL’s monthly loan trial balance, and (iii) a copy of FSRL’s monthly statement of condition and profit and loss statement and, if requested by CBAN, a copy of FSRL’s daily statement of condition and daily profit and loss statement, in each case, which shall be provided as promptly as reasonably practicable after it is filed or prepared, as applicable. FSRL further agrees to provide CBAN, no later than ten (10) Business Days following the end of each calendar month following the date hereof, any supplements to FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.20, FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.23(a), and FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.23(b) that would be required if the references to March 31, 2026 in each corresponding representation and warranty of FSRL were changed to the date of the most recently ended calendar month.
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(e) No investigation by a Party or its representatives shall be deemed to modify or waive any representation, warranty, covenant or agreement of the other Party set forth in this Agreement, or the conditions to the respective obligations of CBAN and FSRL to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby.
(f) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Section 5.08, no Party shall be required to provide the other Party with any documents where such access or disclosure would result in the waiver by it of the privilege protecting communications between it and any of its counsel, where such access or disclosure would contravene any applicable Law or binding agreement entered into prior to the date of this Agreement or involving information related to the negotiation, discussions or preparation of this Agreement. In the event any of the restrictions in this Section 5.08(f) shall apply, such Party shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to provide appropriate consents, waivers, decrees and approvals necessary to satisfy any confidentiality issues relating to documents prepared or held by third parties (including work papers), and the Parties will make appropriate alternate disclosure arrangements, including adopting additional specific procedures to protect the confidentiality of sensitive material and to ensure compliance with applicable Laws.
Section 5.09 No Solicitation by FSRL; Superior Proposals.
(a) Except as permitted by Section 5.09(b), FSRL shall not, and shall cause its Subsidiaries and each of their respective officers, directors and employees not to, and will not authorize any investment bankers, financial advisors, attorneys, accountants, consultants, affiliates or other agents of FSRL or any of FSRL’s Subsidiaries (collectively, the “FSRL Representatives”) to, directly or indirectly, (i) initiate, solicit, induce or knowingly encourage, or take any action to facilitate the making of, any inquiry, offer or proposal which constitutes, or could reasonably be expected to lead to, an Acquisition Proposal; (ii) participate in any discussions or negotiations regarding any Acquisition Proposal or furnish, or otherwise afford access, to any Person (other than CBAN) any information or data with respect to FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries or otherwise relating to an Acquisition Proposal; (iii) release any Person from, waive any provisions of, or fail to enforce any confidentiality agreement or standstill agreement to which FSRL is a party; or (iv) enter into any agreement, confidentiality agreement, agreement in principle or letter of intent with respect to any Acquisition Proposal or approve or resolve to approve any Acquisition Proposal or any agreement, agreement in principle or letter of intent relating to an Acquisition Proposal. Any violation of the foregoing restrictions by any of the FSRL Representatives, whether or not such FSRL Representative is so authorized and whether or not such FSRL Representative is purporting to act on behalf of FSRL or otherwise, shall be deemed to be a breach of this Agreement by FSRL. FSRL and its Subsidiaries shall, and shall cause each of the FSRL Representatives to, immediately cease and cause to be terminated any and all existing discussions, negotiations, and communications with any Persons with respect to any existing or potential Acquisition Proposal. FSRL shall promptly (and in any event within one (1) Business Day after the date hereof) terminate access by any such Person to any data room (virtual or actual) or other information repositories containing information of or relating to FSRL or its Subsidiaries.
For purposes of this Agreement, “Acquisition Proposal” means any inquiry, offer or proposal (other than an inquiry, offer or proposal from CBAN), whether or not in writing, contemplating, relating to, or that could reasonably be expected to lead to, an Acquisition Transaction.
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For purposes of this Agreement, “Acquisition Transaction” means (A) any transaction or series of transactions involving any merger, consolidation, recapitalization, share exchange, liquidation, dissolution or similar transaction involving FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries; (B) any transaction pursuant to which any third party or group acquires or would acquire (whether through sale, lease or other disposition), directly or indirectly, a significant portion of the assets of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries; (C) any issuance, sale or other disposition of (including by way of merger, consolidation, share exchange or any similar transaction) securities (or options, rights or warrants to purchase or securities convertible into, such securities) representing 20% or more of the votes attached to the outstanding securities of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries; (D) any tender offer or exchange offer that, if consummated, would result in any third party or group beneficially owning 20% or more of any class of equity securities of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries; or (E) any transaction which is similar in form, substance or purpose to any of the foregoing transactions, or any combination of the foregoing.
For purposes of this Agreement, “Superior Proposal” means a bona fide, unsolicited Acquisition Proposal (i) that if consummated would result in a third party (or in the case of a direct merger between such third party and FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries, the shareholders of such third party) acquiring, directly or indirectly, more than 50% of the outstanding FSRL Stock or more than 50% of the assets of FSRL and its Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, for consideration consisting of cash and/or securities and (ii) that the board of directors of FSRL reasonably determines in good faith, after consultation with its outside financial advisor and outside legal counsel, (A) is reasonably capable of being completed, taking into account all financial, legal, regulatory and other aspects of such proposal, including all conditions contained therein and the person making such Acquisition Proposal, and (B) taking into account any changes to this Agreement proposed by CBAN in response to such Acquisition Proposal, as contemplated by Section 5.09(c), and all financial, legal, regulatory and other aspects of such takeover proposal, including all conditions contained therein and the person making such proposal, is more favorable to the shareholders of FSRL from a financial point of view than the Merger.
(b) Notwithstanding Section 5.09(a) or any other provision of this Agreement, prior to the date of the FSRL Meeting, FSRL may take any of the actions described in Section 5.09(a) if, but only if, (i) FSRL has received a bona fide unsolicited written Acquisition Proposal that did not result from a breach of Section 5.09(a); (ii) the board of directors of FSRL reasonably determines in good faith, after consultation with and having considered the advice of its outside financial advisor and outside legal counsel, that (A) such Acquisition Proposal constitutes or is reasonably likely to lead to a Superior Proposal and (B) it is reasonably necessary to take such actions to comply with its fiduciary duties to FSRL’s shareholders under applicable Law; (iii) FSRL has provided CBAN with at least three (3) Business Days’ prior notice of such determination; and (iv) prior to furnishing or affording access to any information or data with respect to FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries or otherwise relating to an Acquisition Proposal, FSRL receives from such Person a confidentiality agreement with terms no less favorable to FSRL than those contained in the confidentiality agreement with CBAN. FSRL shall provide CBAN with at least three (3) Business Days’ prior written notice before entering into any such confidentiality agreement. For the avoidance of doubt, FSRL shall not enter into any confidentiality agreement that provides any Person with exclusive rights to negotiate with FSRL or that otherwise prohibits FSRL from complying with its obligations under this Section 5.09. FSRL shall promptly provide to CBAN any non-public information regarding FSRL or its Subsidiaries provided to any other Person which was not previously provided to CBAN, such additional information to be provided no later than the date of provision of such information to such other party.
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(c) FSRL shall promptly (and in any event within twenty-four (24) hours) notify CBAN in writing if any proposals or offers are received by, any information is requested from, or any negotiations or discussions are sought to be initiated or continued with, FSRL or the FSRL Representatives, in each case in connection with any Acquisition Proposal, and such notice shall indicate the name of the Person initiating such discussions or negotiations or making such proposal, offer or information request and the material terms and conditions of any proposals or offers and shall include an unredacted copy of any such Acquisition Proposal and any draft agreements, proposals or other related written materials (including e-mails or other electronic communications). FSRL agrees that it shall keep CBAN informed, on a reasonably current basis, of the status and terms of any such proposal, offer, information request, negotiations or discussions (including any amendments or modifications to such proposal, offer or request).
(d) Neither the board of directors of FSRL nor any committee thereof shall (i) withdraw, qualify, amend or modify, or propose to withdraw, qualify, amend or modify, in a manner adverse to CBAN in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (including the Merger), the FSRL Recommendation, fail to reaffirm the FSRL Recommendation within three (3) Business Days following a request by CBAN, or make any statement, filing or release, in connection with the FSRL Meeting or otherwise, inconsistent with the FSRL Recommendation (it being understood that taking a neutral position or no position with respect to an Acquisition Proposal shall be considered an adverse modification of the FSRL Recommendation); (ii) approve or recommend, or propose to approve or recommend, any Acquisition Proposal; or (iii) enter into (or cause FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries to enter into) any letter of intent, agreement in principle, acquisition agreement or other agreement (A) related to any Acquisition Transaction (other than a confidentiality agreement entered into in accordance with the provisions of Section 5.09(b)) or (B) requiring FSRL to abandon, terminate or fail to consummate the Merger or any other transaction contemplated by this Agreement.
(e) Notwithstanding Section 5.09(d), prior to the date of the FSRL Meeting, the board of directors of FSRL may withdraw, qualify, amend or modify the FSRL Recommendation (a “FSRL Subsequent Determination”) after the fifth (5th) Business Day following CBAN’s receipt of a notice (the “Notice of Superior Proposal”) from FSRL advising CBAN that the board of directors of FSRL has decided (in good faith after consultation with its outside legal counsel and financial advisor) that a bona fide unsolicited written Acquisition Proposal that it received (that did not result from a breach of Section 5.09(a)) constitutes a Superior Proposal if, but only if, (i) the board of directors of FSRL has determined in good faith, after consultation with and having considered the advice of outside legal counsel and its financial advisor, that it is reasonably necessary to take such actions to comply with its fiduciary duties to FSRL’s shareholders under applicable Law, (ii) during the five (5) Business Day period after receipt of the Notice of Superior Proposal by CBAN (the “Notice Period”), FSRL and the board of directors of FSRL shall have cooperated and negotiated in good faith with CBAN to make such adjustments, modifications or amendments to the terms and conditions of this Agreement as would enable FSRL to proceed with the FSRL Recommendation without a FSRL Subsequent Determination; provided, however, that CBAN shall not have any obligation to propose any adjustments, modifications or amendments to the terms and conditions of this Agreement and (iii) at the end of the Notice Period, after taking into account any such adjusted, modified or amended terms as may have been proposed by CBAN since its receipt of such Notice of Superior Proposal, the board of directors of FSRL has again in good faith made the determination (A) in clause (i) of this Section 5.09(e) and (B) that such Acquisition Proposal constitutes a Superior Proposal. In the event of any material revisions to the Superior Proposal, FSRL shall be required to deliver a new Notice of Superior Proposal to CBAN and again comply with the requirements of this Section 5.09(e), except that the Notice Period shall be reduced to three (3) Business Days.
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(f) Notwithstanding any FSRL Subsequent Determination, this Agreement shall be submitted to FSRL’s shareholders at the FSRL Meeting for the purpose of voting on the approval of this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby (including the Merger) and nothing contained herein shall be deemed to relieve FSRL of such obligation; provided, however, that if the board of directors of FSRL shall have made a FSRL Subsequent Determination with respect to a Superior Proposal, then the board of directors of FSRL may recommend approval of such Superior Proposal by the shareholders of FSRL and may submit this Agreement to FSRL’s shareholders without recommendation, in which event the board of directors of FSRL shall communicate the basis for its recommendation of such Superior Proposal and the basis for its lack of a recommendation with respect to this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby to FSRL’s shareholders in the Proxy Statement-Prospectus or an appropriate amendment or supplement thereto.
(g) Nothing contained in this Section 5.09 shall prohibit FSRL or the board of directors of FSRL from complying with FSRL’s obligations required under Rule 14e-2(a) promulgated under the Exchange Act; provided, however, that any such disclosure relating to an Acquisition Proposal (other than a “stop, look and listen” or similar communication of the type contemplated by Rule 14d-9(f) under the Exchange Act) shall be deemed a change in the FSRL Recommendation unless the board of directors of FSRL reaffirms the FSRL Recommendation in such disclosure.
Section 5.10 Indemnification.
(a) For a period of six (6) years from and after the Effective Time, and in any event subject to the provisions of Section 5.10(c), CBAN shall indemnify and hold harmless the present and former directors and officers of FSRL and its Subsidiaries (each an “Indemnified Party”), against all costs, expenses (including reasonable attorney’s fees), judgments, fines, losses, claims, damages or liabilities or amounts that are paid in settlement (which settlement shall require the prior written consent of CBAN, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld) of or in connection with any claim, action, suit, proceeding or investigation, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative (each a “Claim”), arising out of actions or omissions of such persons in the course of performing their duties for FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries occurring at or before the Effective Time (including the Merger and the other transactions contemplated hereby), regardless of whether such Claim is asserted or claimed before, or after, the Effective Time, to the same extent permitted under the organizational documents of FSRL and its Subsidiaries in effect on the date of this Agreement to the extent permitted by applicable Law; provided, however, that that notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in the organizational documents of the FSRL or its Subsidiaries, CBAN shall have no obligation to provide indemnification under this paragraph (a) to any Indemnified Party for any Excluded Claim.
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(b) In connection with the indemnification provided pursuant to this Section 5.10, CBAN and/or an CBAN Subsidiary will advance expenses, promptly after statements therefor are received, to each FSRL Indemnified Party, to the same extent permitted under the organizational documents of FSRL and its Subsidiaries in effect on the date of this Agreement to the extent permitted by applicable Law (provided the individual to whom expenses are advanced provides an undertaking to repay such advance if it is ultimately determined that such individual is not entitled to indemnification), including the payment of the fees and expenses of one counsel with respect to a matter, and one local counsel in each applicable jurisdiction, if necessary or appropriate, selected by such FSRL Indemnified Party or multiple Indemnified Parties, it being understood that they collectively shall only be entitled to one counsel and one local counsel in each applicable jurisdiction where necessary or appropriate (unless a conflict shall exist between them in which case they may retain separate counsel), all such counsel shall be reasonably satisfactory to CBAN. CBAN shall have no obligation to advance expenses related to any Excluded Claim.
(c) Any Indemnified Party wishing to claim indemnification under this Section 5.10 shall promptly notify CBAN upon learning of any Claim, provided that, failure to so notify shall not affect the obligation of CBAN under this Section 5.10, unless, and only to the extent that, CBAN is materially prejudiced in the defense of such Claim as a consequence. In the event of any such Claim (whether asserted or claimed prior to, at or after the Effective Time), (i) CBAN shall have the right to assume the defense thereof and CBAN shall not be liable to such Indemnified Parties for any legal expenses or other counsel or any other expenses subsequently incurred by such Indemnified Parties in connection with the defense thereof, (ii) the Indemnified Parties will cooperate in the defense of any such matter, (iii) CBAN shall not be liable for any settlement effected without its prior written consent, and (iv) CBAN shall have no obligation hereunder to any Indemnified Party if such indemnification would be in violation of any applicable federal or state banking Laws or regulations, or in the event that a federal or state banking agency or a court of competent jurisdiction shall determine that indemnification of an Indemnified Party in the manner contemplated hereby is prohibited by applicable Laws and regulations, whether or not related to banking Laws.
(d) For a period of six (6) years following the Effective Time, CBAN will maintain director’s and officer’s liability insurance (herein, “D&O Insurance”) that serves to reimburse the present and former officers and directors of FSRL or its Subsidiaries (determined as of the Effective Time) with respect to claims against such directors and officers arising from facts or events occurring before the Effective Time (including the transactions contemplated hereby), which insurance will contain at least the same coverage and amounts, and contain terms and conditions no less advantageous to the Indemnified Party, as that coverage currently provided by FSRL; provided that, if CBAN is unable to maintain or obtain the insurance called for by this Section 5.10, CBAN will provide as much comparable insurance as is reasonably available (subject to the limitations described below in this Section 5.10(d)); and provided, further, that officers and directors of FSRL or its Subsidiaries may be required to make application and provide customary representations and warranties to the carrier of the D&O Insurance for the purpose of obtaining such insurance. In no event shall CBAN be required to expend for such tail insurance a premium amount in excess of an amount equal to 200% of the annual premiums paid by FSRL for D&O Insurance in effect as of the date of this Agreement (the “Maximum D&O Tail Premium”). If the cost of such tail insurance exceeds the Maximum D&O Tail Premium, CBAN shall obtain tail insurance coverage or a separate tail insurance policy with the greatest coverage available for a cost not exceeding the Maximum D&O Tail Premium.
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(e) Any indemnification payments made pursuant to this Section 5.10 are subject to and conditioned upon their compliance with Section 18(k) of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act (12 U.S.C. § 1828(k)) and the regulations promulgated by the FDIC (12 C.F.R. Part 359).
(f) This Section 5.10 shall survive the Effective Time, is intended to benefit each FSRL Indemnified Party (each of whom shall be entitled to enforce this Section 5.10 against CBAN), and shall be binding on all successors and assigns of CBAN.
(g) If CBAN or any of its successors and assigns (i) shall consolidate with or merge into any other corporation or entity and shall not be the continuing or surviving corporation or entity of such consolidation or merger, or (ii) shall transfer all or substantially all of its property and assets to any individual, corporation or other entity, then, in each such case, proper provision shall be made so that the successors and assigns of CBAN and its Subsidiaries shall assume the obligations set forth in this Section 5.10.
Section 5.11 Employees; Benefit Plans.
(a) Following the Effective Time, for a period of six (6) months, CBAN shall maintain or cause to be maintained employee benefit plans for the benefit of employees who are full time employees of FSRL on the Closing Date and who become employees of CBAN in connection with the transaction contemplated hereunder (“Covered Employees”) that provide employee benefits which, in the aggregate, are substantially comparable to the employee benefits and cash-based compensation opportunities that are made available on a uniform and non-discriminatory basis to similarly situated employees of CBAN; provided, however, that in no event shall any Covered Employee be eligible to participate in any closed or frozen plan of CBAN. CBAN shall give the Covered Employees credit for their prior service with FSRL for purposes of eligibility (including initial participation and eligibility for current benefits) and vesting under any employee benefit plan maintained by CBAN and in which Covered Employees may be eligible to participate.
(b) With respect to any employee benefit plan of CBAN that is a health, dental, vision or other welfare plan in which any Covered Employee is eligible to participate, for the plan year that includes the Closing, if Covered Employees are eligible to participate in such plans, CBAN shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to cause any pre-existing condition limitations, eligibility waiting periods or evidence of insurability requirements under such CBAN plan to be waived with respect to such Covered Employee and his or her covered dependents to the extent such condition was or would have been covered under the comparable FSRL Benefit Plan in which such Covered Employee participated immediately prior to the Effective Time.
(c) Following the Effective Time, Colony Bank shall credit each Covered Employee with an amount of paid time off equal to such Covered Employee’s accrued but unused paid time off at First Reliance Bank (“Carryover PTO”); provided, however, that such Carryover PTO will be forfeited if not used in accordance with the terms of Colony Bank’s policies.
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(d) FSRL shall cause First Reliance Bank to take all necessary actions to terminate the First Reliance Bank 401(k) Plan (the “401(k) Plan”), effective as the date immediately preceding the date of the Effective Time of the Merger, subject to the occurrence of the Effective Time. FSRL shall provide CBAN with copies of the appropriate resolutions terminating the plan not later than three (3) days prior to the Effective Time. The accounts of all participants and beneficiaries in the 401(k) Plan shall become fully vested upon termination of such plan.
(e) As soon as practicable after the date of this Agreement, FSRL will request that the ESOP Trustees take all necessary action required by the ESOP plan document, the ESOP Trust, and applicable law to conduct a pass-through vote of the ESOP participants to direct the ESOP Trustee to vote the shares of FSRL Stock owned by the ESOP and allocated to the plan accounts of ESOP participants either in favor of or against the Merger (the “ESOP Vote”). FSRL will provide CBAN for review and comment, reasonably in advance of the ESOP Vote, all materials proposed to be distributed to the ESOP participants in connection with the ESOP Vote. CBAN shall have five business days to review and provide comments with respect to the materials to be distributed to ESOP participants with respect to the ESOP Vote.
(f) FSRL shall cause First Reliance Bank to take all necessary actions to terminate the ESOP, on the date immediately prior to the Effective Time, subject to the occurrence of the Effective Time. FSRL shall provide CBAN with copies of the appropriate resolutions terminating the plan not later than three (3) days prior to the Effective Time. The accounts of all participants and beneficiaries in the ESOP shall become fully vested upon termination of such plan.
(g) CBAN shall take all commercially reasonable actions necessary to cause the trustee of the Colony Bankcorp, Inc. 401(k) Plan, if requested to do so by a Covered Employee, to accept a direct “rollover” in cash of all or a portion of such employee’s distribution from the ESOP and the FSRL 401(k) plan.
(h) Prior to the Effective Time, FSRL shall take, and shall cause First Reliance Bank to take, all actions requested by CBAN that may be necessary or appropriate to, conditioned on the occurrence of the Effective Time, (i) cause one or more FSRL Benefits Plans not covered above to terminate as of the Effective Time, or as of the date immediately preceding the Effective Time, (ii) cause benefit accruals and entitlements under any FSRL Benefit Plan to cease as of the Effective Time, or as of the date immediately preceding the Effective Time, (iii) cause the continuation on and after the Effective Time of any contract, arrangement or insurance policy relating to any FSRL Benefit Plan for such period as may be requested by CBAN, or (iv) facilitate the merger of any FSRL Benefit Plan into any employee benefit plan maintained by CBAN. All resolutions, notices, or other documents issued, adopted or executed in connection with the implementation of this Section 5.11(h) shall be subject to CBAN’s reasonable prior review and approval, which shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed.
(i) Except for employees whose terms of employment are governed by the CBAN Employment Agreements, any employee of FSRL or First Reliance Bank that becomes an employee of CBAN or Colony Bank at the Effective Time who is terminated within one year following the Effective Time (other than for cause, death, disability, normal retirement or voluntarily resignation) shall receive a severance payment calculated in accordance with the policy set forth on CBAN Disclosure Schedule 5.11(i).
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(j) Prior to the Effective Time, any agreement that is an employment, change-in-control, severance, salary continuation, deferred compensation, supplemental retirement or similar contract, plan or arrangement with or which covers any present or former employee, director or consultant of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries, except for the agreements listed on CBAN Disclosure Schedule 5.11(j), shall be terminated and any amounts owed in connection with such termination paid by FSRL. Following the Effective Time, CBAN shall assume, honor and comply with all obligations set forth in the employment agreements listed on CBAN Disclosure Schedule 5.11(j).
(k) Nothing in this Section 5.11 shall be construed to limit the right of CBAN (including, following the Closing Date, FSRL) to amend or terminate any FSRL Benefit Plan or other employee benefit plan, to the extent such amendment or termination is permitted by the terms of the applicable plan, nor shall anything in this Section 5.11 be construed to require CBAN to retain the employment of any particular Covered Employee for any fixed period of time following the Closing Date, and the continued retention (or termination) by CBAN of any Covered Employee subsequent to the Effective Time shall be subject in all events to CBAN’s normal and customary employment procedures and practices, including customary background screening and evaluation procedures, and satisfactory employment performance.
(l) For purposes of this Section 5.11, (i) “employees of FSRL” shall include employees of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries, (ii) “employees of CBAN” shall include employees of CBAN or any of its Subsidiaries, (iii) all references to FSRL shall include each of the Subsidiaries of FSRL (iv) all references to CBAN shall include each of the Subsidiaries of CBAN.
Section 5.12 Notification of Certain Changes.
CBAN and FSRL shall promptly advise the other Party of any change or event having, or which could reasonably be expected to have, a Material Adverse Effect or which it believes would, or which could reasonably be expected to, cause or constitute a material breach of any of its or its respective Subsidiaries’ representations, warranties or covenants contained herein and FSRL shall provide on a periodic basis written notice to CBAN of any matters that FSRL becomes aware of that should be disclosed on a supplement or amendment to the FSRL Disclosure Schedule.
Section 5.13 Transition; Informational Systems Conversion.
From and after the date hereof, at CBAN’s request, FSRL will use its commercially reasonable efforts to cooperate with CBAN to facilitate the integration of FSRL with the business of CBAN following consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby, and representative of FSRL shall be available to meet with representative of CBAN on a regular basis to discuss and plan for the conversion of the data processing and related electronic informational systems of FSRL and each of its Subsidiaries (the “Informational Systems Conversion”) to those used by CBAN, which planning shall include, but not be limited to, (a) discussion of third-party service provider arrangements of FSRL and each of its Subsidiaries; (b) non-renewal or changeover, after the Effective Time, of personal property leases and software licenses used by FSRL and each of its Subsidiaries in connection with the systems operations; (c) retention of outside consultants and additional employees to assist with the conversion; (d) outsourcing, as appropriate after the Effective Time, of proprietary or self-provided system services; and (e) any other actions necessary and appropriate to facilitate the conversion, as soon as practicable following the Effective Time. CBAN shall promptly reimburse FSRL on request for any reasonable and documented out-of-pocket fees, expenses or charges that FSRL may incur as a result of taking, at the request of CBAN, any action prior to the Effective Time to facilitate the Informational Systems Conversion.
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Section 5.14 Financial Statements.
From the date of this Agreement until the Closing Date (or the termination of this Agreement in accordance with its terms), FSRL will provide to CBAN as promptly as practicable, but in no event later than the twentieth (20th) day following the end of the relevant calendar month, the monthly unaudited financial statements of FSRL as provided to FSRL’s management (including any related notes and schedules thereto), for each of the calendar months ended after the date of this Agreement. If the Closing Date is on or after January 1, 2027, FSRL will provide to CBAN as promptly as practicable, but in no event later than March 31, 2027, the consolidated audited financial statements, including the financial information of FSRL as of December 31, 2026, including the balance sheets, statements of income, statements of comprehensive income, statements of changes in stockholders’ equity and statements of cash flows for the year then ended.
Section 5.15 Termination and Amendment of Contracts.
In accordance with this Section 5.15, FSRL will take all actions necessary to accrue any and all costs, fees, expenses, contract payments, penalties or liquidated damages necessary to be paid in connection with the termination of each FSRL Material Contract listed on FSRL Disclosure Schedule 5.15 (unless CBAN otherwise directs FSRL not to terminate such contract), and any other contract or agreement requested by CBAN to be amended, modified or terminated (collectively, the “Terminated Contracts”). For the avoidance of doubt, CBAN will be responsible for the amendment, modification or termination of any contract or agreement subject to this Section 5.15 after the Closing Date and all costs, fees, expenses, contract payments, penalties or liquidated damages necessary to be paid in connection with the termination of each such contract or agreement shall be paid with the funds accrued for such purpose by FSRL. For the avoidance of doubt, Terminated Contracts shall not include FSRL Benefit Plans.
Section 5.16 No Control of Other Party’s Business.
Nothing contained in this Agreement shall give CBAN, directly or indirectly, the right to control or direct the operations of FSRL or its Subsidiaries prior to the Effective Time, and nothing contained in this Agreement shall give FSRL, directly or indirectly, the right to control or direct the operations of CBAN or its Subsidiaries prior to the Effective Time. Prior to the Effective Time, each of FSRL and CBAN shall exercise, consistent with the terms and conditions of this Agreement, control and supervision over its and its Subsidiaries’ respective operations.
Section 5.17 Certain Litigation.
Each Party shall promptly, and in any event within two (2) Business Days, notify the other Party in writing of any proceeding, or of any claim, controversy or contingent liability of which the notifying Party has Knowledge that might reasonably be expected to become the subject of a proceeding against the notifying Party or any of its Subsidiaries, if such proceeding or potential proceeding is reasonably likely to result in a Material Adverse Effect. Each Party shall promptly advise the other Party orally and in writing of any actual or threatened shareholder litigation against such Party and/or the members of the board of directors of FSRL or the board of directors of CBAN related to this Agreement or the Merger and the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement. With respect to any such actual or threatened shareholder litigation and any matter disclosed on FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.11(a), FSRL shall: (a) permit CBAN to review and discuss in advance, and consider in good faith the views of CBAN in connection with, any proposed written or oral response to such shareholder litigation or matter; (b) furnish CBAN’s outside legal counsel with all non-privileged information and documents which outside counsel may reasonably request in connection with such shareholder litigation or matter; (c) consult with CBAN regarding the defense or settlement of any such shareholder litigation or matter, shall give due consideration to CBAN’s advice with respect to such shareholder litigation or matter and shall not settle any such litigation or matter prior to such consultation and consideration, and no such settlement shall be agreed without CBAN’s prior written consent (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed); and (d) use commercially reasonable best efforts to resolve and settle such shareholder litigation or matter prior to the Effective Time, subject to this Section 5.17.
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Section 5.18 Director and Officer Resignations.
FSRL will cause to be delivered to CBAN resignations of all the directors and officers of FSRL and its Subsidiaries, such resignations to be effective as of the Effective Time.
Section 5.19 Non-Competition and Non-Disclosure Agreement.
Concurrently with the execution and delivery of this Agreement and effective upon Closing, FSRL has caused each director of FSRL and First Reliance Bank to execute and deliver the Non-Competition and Non-Disclosure Agreement in the form attached hereto as Exhibit D (collectively, the “Director Restrictive Covenant Agreements”).
Section 5.20 Claims Letters.
Concurrently with the execution and delivery of this Agreement and effective upon the Closing, FSRL has caused each executive officer and director of FSRL and First Reliance Bank to execute and deliver the Claims Letter in the form attached hereto as Exhibit E.
Section 5.21 Employment Agreements.
Concurrently with the execution and delivery of this Agreement, the individuals set forth in CBAN Disclosure Schedule 5.21 have executed and delivered to CBAN employment agreements that become effective as of (and subject to the occurrence of) the Effective Time (collectively, the “CBAN Employment Agreements”).
Section 5.22 Corporate Governance.
(a) At or prior to the Effective Time, CBAN will cause the number of directors that comprise the full board of directors of the Surviving Entity to be increased by two (2). The board of directors of the Surviving Entity immediately after the Effective Time shall appoint F.R. Saunders, Jr. and one (1) additional former member of the FSRL board of directors selected my mutual agreement between FSRL and CBAN (collectively, the “Board Representatives”) to serve until such Board Representatives are succeeded in accordance with the Surviving Entity’s bylaws. No other directors or employees of FSRL shall be designated to serve on the board of directors of the Surviving Entity at the Effective Time. The appointment of the Board Representatives to the board of directors of the Surviving Entity shall be subject to the bylaws of the Surviving Entity and the Board Representatives must (i) be reasonably acceptable to the board of directors of CBAN and (ii) satisfy and meet CBAN’s standards for directors, comply with and be subject to CBAN’s corporate governance policies and, except with respect to Mr. Saunders, qualify as an “independent director,” as such term is defined in Section 303A.02 of the NYSE Listed Company Manual (or any successor rule). The Surviving Company shall use its reasonable best efforts to (i) ensure that the Board Representatives are nominated for re-election to the board of directors of the Surviving Company at the Surviving Company’s next annual meeting of shareholders following the Closing Date and (ii) solicit proxies for the Board Representatives in respect of such re-election to the same extent as it does for any of the Surviving Company’s other nominees to the board of directors; provided, however, that the Surviving Company shall not have any obligation to nominate for re-election or solicit proxies for such re-election with respect to any Board Representative who, at the time director nominations are made for the Surviving Company’s next annual meeting of the shareholders following the Closing Date, is not in compliance with or demonstrated an unwillingness to comply with any CBAN policy related to the duties, obligations, or conduct of members of the CBAN board of directors.
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(b) In addition, at the Effective Time, CBAN shall, if requested by FSRL, consider permitting one (1) additional member of the FSRL board of directors (the “Observer”) to attend all meetings of the board of directors of the Surviving Entity and all committees thereof in a non-voting observer capacity. Such Observer shall be entitled to receive all notices, minutes and other materials provided to the board of directors at the same time and in the same manner as the members of the board of directors; provided that such Observer shall be subject to customary confidentiality obligations and shall not be entitled to vote on any matters presented to the board or any committee thereof.
Section 5.23 Coordination.
(a) Prior to the Effective Time, subject to applicable Laws, FSRL and its Subsidiaries shall take any actions CBAN may reasonably request from time to time to better prepare the parties for integration of the operations of FSRL and its Subsidiaries with CBAN and its Subsidiaries, respectively. Without limiting the foregoing, senior officers of FSRL and CBAN shall meet from time to time as CBAN may reasonably request, and in any event not less frequently than monthly, to review the financial and operational affairs of FSRL and its Subsidiaries, and FSRL shall give due consideration to CBAN’s input on such matters, with the understanding that, notwithstanding any other provision contained in this Agreement, neither CBAN nor Colony Bank shall under any circumstance be permitted to exercise control of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries prior to the Effective Time. FSRL shall permit representatives of Colony Bank to be onsite at FSRL to facilitate integration of operations and assist with any other coordination efforts as necessary, provided such efforts shall be done without undue disruption to First Reliance Bank’s business, during normal business hours and at the expense of CBAN or Colony Bank (not to include First Reliance Bank’s regular employee payroll).
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(b) Prior to the Effective Time, subject to applicable Laws, FSRL and its Subsidiaries shall take any actions CBAN may reasonably request in connection with negotiating any amendments, modifications or terminations of any Leases or FSRL Material Contracts that CBAN may request, including, but not limited to, actions necessary to cause any such amendments, modifications or terminations to become effective prior to (to the extent that the conditions set forth in Article VI of this Agreement have already been satisfied), or immediately upon, the Closing, and shall cooperate with CBAN and will use its commercially reasonable efforts to negotiate specific provisions that may be requested by CBAN in connection with any such amendment, modification or termination.
(c) From and after the date hereof, subject to applicable Laws, the parties shall reasonably cooperate (provided that the parties shall cooperate to reasonably minimize disruption to FSRL’s or First Reliance Bank’s business) with the other in preparing for the prompt conversion or consolidation of systems and business operations promptly after the Effective Time (including by entering into customary confidentiality, non-disclosure and similar agreements with the other party and appropriate service providers) and FSRL shall, upon CBAN’s reasonable request, introduce CBAN and its representatives to suppliers of FSRL and its Subsidiaries for the purpose of facilitating the integration of FSRL and its business into that of CBAN. In addition, after satisfaction of the conditions set forth in Section 6.01(a) and Section 6.01(b), subject to applicable Laws, FSRL shall, upon CBAN’s reasonable request, introduce CBAN and its representatives to customers of FSRL and its Subsidiaries for the purpose of facilitating the integration of FSRL and its business into that of CBAN. Any interaction between CBAN and FSRL’s and any of its Subsidiaries’ customers and suppliers shall be coordinated by FSRL. FSRL shall have the right to participate in any discussions between CBAN and FSRL’s customers and suppliers.
(d) CBAN and FSRL agree to take all action necessary and appropriate to cause First Reliance Bank to merge with Colony Bank in accordance with applicable Laws and the terms of the Bank Plan of Merger and Merger Agreement immediately following the Effective Time or as promptly as practicable thereafter.
(e) Without limiting the foregoing, upon CBAN’s reasonable request, FSRL and First Reliance Bank shall, prior to the Closing Date, dispose of any assets held by FSRL or First Reliance Bank that CBAN determines would be impermissible investments for CBAN or Colony Bank.
Section 5.24 Transactional Expenses.
FSRL has provided in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.36 a reasonable good faith estimate of costs and fees that FSRL and its Subsidiaries expect to pay to retained representatives in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, exclusive of any costs that may be incurred by FSRL as a result of any litigation which may arise in connection with this Agreement (collectively, “FSRL Expenses”). FSRL shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to cause the aggregate amount of all FSRL Expenses to not exceed the total expenses disclosed in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.36. FSRL shall promptly notify CBAN if or when it determines that it expects to exceed its total budget for FSRL Expenses. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Section 5.24, FSRL shall not incur any investment banking, brokerage, finders or other similar financial advisory fees in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement other than those expressly set forth in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.36.
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Section 5.25 Confidentiality.
Prior to the execution of this Agreement and prior to the consummation of the Merger, subject to applicable Laws, each of CBAN and FSRL, and their respective Subsidiaries, affiliates, officers, directors, agents, employees, consultants and advisors have provided, and will continue to provide one another with information which may be deemed by the party providing the information to be non-public, proprietary and/or confidential, including, but not limited to, trade secrets of the disclosing party. Each Party agrees that it will, and will cause its representatives to, hold any information obtained pursuant to this Article V in accordance with the terms of the Mutual Nondisclosure Agreement, dated as of April 1, 2026 between CBAN and FSRL.
Section 5.26 FINRA Compliance.
FSRL shall take all actions and submit all filings necessary to ensure compliance by FSRL with Securities Exchange Act Rule 10b-17 and FINRA Rule 6490.
Section 5.27 Tax Matters.
(a) The Parties intend that each of the Merger and the Bank Merger shall each qualify as a “reorganization” within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code and that this Agreement constitute a “plan of reorganization” within the meaning of Section 1.368-2(g) of the Regulations for each of the Merger and the Bank Merger. Except as expressly contemplated or permitted by this Agreement, from and after the date of this Agreement, each of CBAN and FSRL shall use their respective reasonable best efforts to cause each of the Merger and the Bank Merger to qualify as a reorganization within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code, and will not take any action, cause any action to be taken, fail to take any action or cause any action to fail to be taken which action or failure to act is intended or is reasonably likely to prevent either the Merger or the Bank Merger from qualifying as a reorganization within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code.
(b) CBAN shall prepare or cause to be prepared and file or cause to be filed all Tax Returns for FSRL and its Subsidiaries for all periods ending on or prior to the Closing Date that are filed after the Closing Date.
Section 5.28 Stock Exchange Listing.
Prior to the Effective Time, FSRL shall cooperate with CBAN and use reasonable best efforts to take, or cause to be taken, all actions, and do or cause to be done all things, reasonably necessary, proper or advisable on its part under applicable Laws and the rules and policies of the OTCQX Market to enable the cessation of quotation of FSRL Common Stock on the OTCQX Market as promptly as practicable after the Effective Time.
Section 5.29 Takeover Statutes.
None of CBAN, FSRL or their respective boards of directors shall take any action that would cause any “moratorium,” “control share,” “fair price,” “affiliate transaction,” “shareholder protection,” “anti-greenmail,” “business combination” or other antitakeover Laws of the State of Georgia, the State of South Carolina, or of any other state that are applicable to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (any of the foregoing, “Takeover Statutes”) to become applicable to this Agreement, the Merger or any of the other transactions contemplated hereby, and each shall take all reasonably necessary steps to exempt (or ensure the continued exemption of) the Merger and the other transactions contemplated hereby from any applicable Takeover Statutes now or hereafter in effect. If any Takeover Statute may become, or may purport to be, applicable to the transactions contemplated hereby, each Party and the members of its board of directors will grant such approvals and take such actions as are necessary so that the transactions contemplated hereby may be consummated as promptly as practicable on the terms contemplated hereby and otherwise act to eliminate or minimize the effects of any Takeover Statute on any of the transactions contemplated hereby, including, if necessary, challenging the validity or applicability of any such Takeover Statute.
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Section 5.30 Dividends.
After the date of this Agreement, FSRL shall coordinate with CBAN regarding the declaration of any dividend in respect of FSRL Common Stock and the record date and payment date relating thereto, it being the intention of the parties hereto that Holders of FSRL Stock shall not receive two (2) dividends in any quarter with respect to their shares of FSRL Stock and any shares of CBAN Common Stock any such Holder receives in exchange therefor in the Merger.
Section 5.31 Trust Preferred Securities.
Prior to the Effective Time, CBAN and FSRL shall take all actions necessary for CBAN to enter into, and CBAN shall enter into, supplemental indentures with the trustee of the indentures for FSRL’s outstanding floating rate capital securities issued in connection with the issuance of the trust securities of First Reliance Capital Trust I in order to evidence the assumption by CBAN of such capital securities as of the Effective Time. The form of the supplemental indenture shall be reasonably acceptable to CBAN.
Article
VI
CONDITIONS TO CONSUMMATION OF THE MERGER
Section 6.01 Conditions to Obligations of the Parties to Effect the Merger.
The respective obligations of the Parties to consummate the Merger are subject to the fulfillment or, to the extent permitted by applicable Law, written waiver by the Parties prior to the Closing Date of each of the following conditions:
(a) Shareholder Votes. This Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby, as applicable, shall have received the Requisite FSRL Shareholder Approval at the FSRL Meeting and the Requisite CBAN Shareholder Approval at the CBAN Meeting.
(b) Regulatory Approvals; No Burdensome Condition. All Regulatory Approvals required to consummate the Merger and the Bank Merger in the manner contemplated herein shall have been obtained and shall remain in full force and effect and all statutory waiting periods in respect thereof, if any, shall have expired or been terminated, and no such Regulatory Approval includes or contains, or shall have resulted in the imposition of, any Burdensome Condition.
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(c) No Injunctions or Restraints; Illegality. No judgment, order, injunction or decree issued by any court or agency of competent jurisdiction or other legal restraint or prohibition preventing the consummation of any of the transactions contemplated hereby shall be in effect. No statute, rule, regulation, order, injunction or decree shall have been enacted, entered, promulgated or enforced by any Governmental Authority that prohibits or makes illegal the consummation of any of the transactions contemplated hereby.
(d) Effective Registration Statement. The Registration Statement shall have become effective and no stop order suspending the effectiveness of the Registration Statement shall have been issued and no proceedings for that purpose shall have been initiated or threatened by the SEC or any other Governmental Authority.
(e) Tax Opinions Relating to the Merger. CBAN and FSRL, respectively, shall have received opinions from Alston & Bird LLP and Ward and Smith, P.A., respectively, each dated as of the Closing Date, in substance and form reasonably satisfactory to CBAN and FSRL, respectively, to the effect that, on the basis of the facts, representations and assumptions set forth in such opinions, the Merger will be treated for federal income tax purposes as a “reorganization” within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code. In rendering their opinions, Alston & Bird LLP and Ward and Smith, P.A. may require and rely upon representations as to certain factual matters contained in certificates of officers of each of CBAN and FSRL, in form and substance reasonably acceptable to such counsel.
Section 6.02 Conditions to Obligations of FSRL.
The obligations of FSRL to consummate the Merger also are subject to the fulfillment or written waiver by FSRL prior to the Closing Date of each of the following conditions:
(a) Representations and Warranties. The representations and warranties of CBAN (i) set forth in Section 4.09 shall be true and correct in all respects as of the date of this Agreement and as of the Closing Date with the same effect as though made as of the Closing Date, (ii) Section 4.01, Section 4.02 (except for inaccuracies which are de minimis in amount), Section 4.03(a), Section 4.04, Section 4.08 and Section 4.12, shall be true and correct in all material respects as of the date of this Agreement and as of the Closing Date with the same effect as though made as of the Closing Date (except to the extent expressly made as of an earlier date, in which case as of such date) and (iii) set forth in this Agreement, other than those sections specifically identified in clauses (i) or (ii) of this Section 6.02(a), shall be true and correct (disregarding all qualifications or limitations as to “materiality”, “Material Adverse Effect” and words of similar import set forth therein) as of the date of this Agreement and as of the Closing Date with the same effect as though made as of the Closing Date (except to the extent expressly made as of an earlier date, in which case as of such date), except, in the case of this clause (iii), where the failure to be true and correct would not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect with respect to CBAN. FSRL shall have received a certificate signed on behalf of CBAN by the Chief Executive Officer or the Chief Financial Officer of CBAN to the foregoing effect.
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(b) Performance of Obligations of CBAN. CBAN shall have performed and complied with all of its obligations under this Agreement in all material respects at or prior to the Closing Date except where the failure of the performance of, or compliance with, such obligation has not had and does not have a Material Adverse Effect on CBAN, and FSRL shall have received a certificate, dated the Closing Date, signed on behalf of CBAN by its Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer to such effect.
(c) No Material Adverse Effect. Since the date of this Agreement (i) no change or event has occurred which has resulted in CBAN or Colony Bank being subject to a Material Adverse Effect and (ii) no condition, event, fact, circumstance or other occurrence has occurred that may reasonably be expected to have or result in such parties being subject to a Material Adverse Effect.
Section 6.03 Conditions to Obligations of CBAN.
The obligations of CBAN to consummate the Merger also are subject to the fulfillment or written waiver by CBAN prior to the Closing Date of each of the following conditions:
(a) Representations and Warranties. The representations and warranties of FSRL (i) set forth in Section 3.02(a) and Section 3.09 shall be true and correct in all respects as of the date of this Agreement and as of the Closing Date as though made as of the Closing Date, (ii) the first sentence of Section 3.01, Section 3.04(a), Section 3.05, Section 3.15 and Section 3.35, shall be true and correct in all material respects as of the date of this Agreement and as of the Closing Date with the same effect as though made as of the Closing Date (except to the extent expressly made as of an earlier date, in which case as of such date) and (iii) set forth in this Agreement, other than those sections specifically identified in clauses (i) or (ii) of this Section 6.03(a), shall be true and correct (disregarding all qualifications or limitations as to “materiality”, “Material Adverse Effect” and words of similar import set forth therein) as of the date of this Agreement and as of the Closing Date with the same effect as though made as of the Closing Date (except to the extent expressly made as of an earlier date, in which case as of such date), except, in the case of this clause (iii), where the failure to be true and correct would not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect with respect to FSRL. CBAN shall have received a certificate signed on behalf of FSRL by the Chief Executive Officer or the Chief Financial Officer of FSRL to the foregoing effect.
(b) Performance of Obligations of FSRL. FSRL shall have performed and complied with all of its obligations under this Agreement in all material respects at or prior to the Closing Date, and CBAN shall have received a certificate, dated the Closing Date, signed on behalf of FSRL by FSRL’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, to such effect.
(c) No Material Adverse Effect. Since the date of this Agreement (i) no change or event has occurred which has resulted in FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries being subject to a Material Adverse Effect and (ii) no condition, event, fact, circumstance or other occurrence has occurred that may reasonably be expected to have or result in such parties being subject to a Material Adverse Effect.
(d) Plan of Bank Merger. The Bank Plan of Merger and Merger Agreement shall have been executed and delivered.
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(e) Dissenting Shares. Dissenting Shares shall be less than seven and one-half percent (7.5)% of the issued and outstanding shares of FSRL Stock.
(f) Employee Benefit Plans. Notwithstanding the requirement of Section 6.03(b), FSRL and its Subsidiaries shall have performed and complied with all of its obligations set forth in Section 5.11 in all material respects prior to the Closing Date.
(g) Consents and Approvals. FSRL has received, in form and substance satisfactory to FSRL and CBAN, all consents, approvals, waivers and other assurances from all non-governmental third parties which are required to be obtained under the terms of any contract, agreement or instrument to which FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries is a party or by which any of their respective properties is bound in order to prevent the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement from constituting a default under such contract, agreement or instrument or creating any lien, claim or charge upon any of the assets of FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries.
(h) Consents from Governmental Authorities. Any applicable approval of any Governmental Authority, including those disclosed on FSRL Disclosure Schedule 3.06(a), shall have been obtained and any mandatory waiting period related thereto shall have expired, including, but not limited to: Fannie Mae’s, Freddie Mac’s and the SBA’s respective authorizations to transfer FSRL’s Fannie Mae Seller Servicer approval, Freddie Mae Seller Servicer approval and SBA lender approval to CBAN.
(i) Certification of Non-USRPHC Status. CBAN shall have received from FSRL (i) a certificate stating that FSRL is not and has not been a United States real property holding corporation, pursuant to Regulations Section 1.1445-2(c)(3), and (ii) a notice to the IRS described in Regulations Section 1.897-2(h), in each case dated as of the Closing Date, executed by an officer of FSRL, executed under penalties of perjury, and as reasonably acceptable to CBAN.
Section 6.04 Frustration of Closing Conditions.
Neither CBAN nor FSRL may rely on the failure of any condition set forth in Section 6.01, Section 6.02 or Section 6.03, as the case may be, to be satisfied if such failure was caused by such Party’s failure to use its reasonable best efforts to consummate any of the transactions contemplated hereby, as required by and subject to Section 5.03.
Article
VII
TERMINATION
Section 7.01 Termination.
This Agreement may be terminated, and the transactions contemplated hereby may be abandoned:
(a) Mutual Consent. At any time prior to the Effective Time, by the mutual consent, in writing, of CBAN and FSRL if the board of directors of CBAN and the board of directors of FSRL each so determines by vote of a majority of the members of its entire board.
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(b) No Regulatory Approval. By CBAN or FSRL, if either of their respective boards of directors so determines by a vote of a majority of the members of its entire board, in the event any Regulatory Approval required for consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement shall have been denied by final, non-appealable action by such Governmental Authority or an application therefor shall have been permanently withdrawn at the request of a Governmental Authority unless the failure to obtain the Regulatory Approval is due to the failure of the Party seeking to terminate this Agreement to perform or observe the obligations, covenants and agreements of such Party set forth herein.
(c) No Shareholder Approval. By either CBAN or FSRL (provided that such terminating party shall not be in breach of any of its obligations under Section 5.04), if the Requisite CBAN Shareholder Approval or the Requisite FSRL Shareholder Approval shall not have been obtained by reason of the failure to obtain the required vote at a duly held meeting of such shareholders or at any adjournment or postponement thereof.
(d) Breach of Representations and Warranties. By either CBAN or FSRL (provided that the terminating party is not then in material breach of any representation, warranty, covenant or other agreement contained herein in a manner that would entitle the other party to not consummate this Agreement) if there shall have been (i) with respect to representations and warranties set forth in this Agreement that are not qualified by the term “material” or do not contain terms such as “Material Adverse Effect,” a material breach of any of such representations or warranties by the other party and (ii) with respect to representations and warranties set forth in this Agreement that are qualified by the term “material” or contain terms such as “Material Adverse Effect,” any breach of any of such representations or warranties by the other Party; which breach is not cured prior to the earlier of (y) thirty (30) days following written notice to the Party committing such breach from the other Party or (z) two (2) Business Days prior to the Expiration Date, or which breach, by its nature, cannot be cured prior to the Closing.
(e) Breach of Covenants. By either CBAN or FSRL (provided that the terminating party is not then in material breach of any representation, warranty, covenant or other agreement contained herein in a manner that would entitle the other Party not to consummate the agreement) if there shall have been a material breach of any of the covenants or agreements set forth in this Agreement on the part of the other Party, which breach shall not have been cured prior to the earlier of (i) thirty (30) days following written notice to the Party committing such breach from the other Party or (ii) two (2) Business Days prior to the Expiration Date, or which breach, by its nature, cannot be cured prior to the Closing.
(f) Delay. By either CBAN or FSRL if the Merger shall not have been consummated on or before March 24, 2027, provided, however, that such date will be automatically extended to April 23, 2027, if the only outstanding condition to Closing under Article VI is the receipt of all Regulatory Approvals (the “Expiration Date”), unless the failure of the Closing to occur by such date shall be due to a material breach of this Agreement by the Party seeking to terminate this Agreement.
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(g) Failure to Recommend; Etc.
(i) In addition to and not in limitation of CBAN’s termination rights under Section 7.01(e), by CBAN if (i) there shall have been a material breach of Section 5.09, or (ii) the board of directors of FSRL (A) withdraws, qualifies, amends, modifies or withholds the FSRL Recommendation, or makes any statement, filing or release, in connection with the FSRL Meeting or otherwise, inconsistent with the FSRL Recommendation (it being understood that taking a neutral position or no position with respect to an Acquisition Proposal shall be considered an adverse modification of the FSRL Recommendation), (B) materially breaches its obligation to call, give notice of and commence the FSRL Meeting under Section 5.04(a), (C) approves or recommends an Acquisition Proposal, (D) fails to publicly recommend against a publicly announced Acquisition Proposal within three (3) Business Days of being requested to do so by CBAN, (E) fails to publicly reconfirm the FSRL Recommendation within three (3) Business Days of being requested to do so by CBAN, or (F) resolves or otherwise determines to take, or announces an intention to take, any of the foregoing actions.
(ii) In addition to and not in limitation of FSRL’s termination rights under Section 7.01(e), by FSRL if the board of directors of CBAN (i) withdraws, qualifies, amends, modifies or withholds the CBAN Recommendation, or makes any statement, filing or release, in connection with the CBAN Meeting or otherwise, inconsistent with the CBAN Recommendation, (ii) materially breaches its obligation to call, give notice of and commence the CBAN Meeting under Section 5.04(a), (iii) fails to publicly reconfirm the CBAN Recommendation within three (3) Business Days of being requested to do so by FSRL, or (iv) resolves or otherwise determines to take, or announces an intention to take, any of the foregoing actions.
(h) Acceptance of Superior Proposal. By FSRL in connection with entering into a definitive agreement to effect a Superior Proposal after making an FSRL Subsequent Determination in accordance with Section 5.09(e).
(i) Stock Price Decline; Exchange Ratio Adjustment. By FSRL giving prompt written notice of termination to CBAN at any time on or after the fifth (5th) Business Day immediately prior to the date on which the Effective Time is to occur (the “Determination Date”) and prior to the Effective Time, if both of the following conditions are satisfied: (i) the quotient obtained by dividing the Average Closing Price by the Starting CBAN Stock Price (the “CBAN Ratio”) shall be less than 0.80; and (ii) the CBAN Ratio shall be less than the number obtained by dividing the Final Index Price by the Starting Index Price (the “Index Ratio”) and subtracting 0.20 from such quotient. Following delivery of such written notice of termination by FSRL, this Agreement shall terminate upon the fifth (5th) Business Day following the Determination Date (the “Termination Date”); provided, however, that FSRL’s notice of election to terminate may be withdrawn at any time prior to the Termination Date; and provided further that during the five (5) Business Day period commencing with the receipt of such notice, CBAN shall have the option (but not the obligation) to offer to increase the stock consideration to be received by the holders of FSRL Common Stock through an adjustment to the Exchange Ratio such that the stock consideration portion of the Merger Consideration equals or exceeds the Minimum Stock Consideration Amount. If CBAN makes this election to increase the Exchange Ratio, whereupon no termination shall have occurred pursuant to this Section 7.01(i) and this Agreement shall remain in effect in accordance with its terms (except as the Exchange Ratio, and derivatively the Per Share Stock Consideration, shall have been so modified, and the Stock Conversion Maximum shall be adjusted proportionately), and any references in this Agreement to “Exchange Ratio” and “Per Share Stock Consideration” shall thereafter be deemed to refer to the Exchange Ratio and Per Share Stock Consideration after giving effect to any adjustment made pursuant to this Section 7.01(i).
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Section 7.02 Termination Fee
(a) In recognition of the efforts, expenses and other opportunities foregone by CBAN while structuring and pursuing the Merger, FSRL shall pay to CBAN a termination fee equal to $6,600,000 (“Termination Fee”), by wire transfer of immediately available funds to an account specified by CBAN in the event of any of the following: (i) in the event CBAN terminates this Agreement pursuant to Section 7.01(g), FSRL shall pay CBAN the Termination Fee within one (1) Business Day after receipt of CBAN’s notification of such termination; and (ii) in the event that after the date of this Agreement and prior to the termination of this Agreement, an Acquisition Proposal shall have been made known to senior management of FSRL or has been made directly to its shareholders generally or any Person shall have publicly announced (and not withdrawn) an Acquisition Proposal with respect to FSRL and (A) thereafter this Agreement is terminated (x) by either CBAN or FSRL pursuant to Section 7.01(c) because the Requisite FSRL Shareholder Approval shall not have been obtained or (y) by CBAN pursuant to Section 7.01(d) or Section 7.01(e) and (B) prior to the date that is twelve (12) months after the date of such termination, FSRL enters into any agreement or consummates a transaction with respect to an Acquisition Proposal (whether or not the same Acquisition Proposal as that referred to above), then FSRL shall, on the earlier of the date it enters into such agreement and the date of consummation of such transaction, pay CBAN the Termination Fee, provided, that for purposes of this Section 7.02(a)(ii), all references in the definition of Acquisition Proposal to “20%” shall instead refer to “50%,” and (iii) in the event FSRL terminates this Agreement pursuant to Section 7.01(h), FSRL shall pay CBAN the Termination Fee within one (1) Business Day after FSRL’s notification of such termination.
(b) FSRL and CBAN each agree that the agreements contained in this Section 7.02 are an integral part of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and that, without these agreements, CBAN would not enter into this Agreement; accordingly, if FSRL fails promptly to pay any amounts due under this Section 7.02, FSRL shall pay interest on such amounts from the date payment of such amounts were due to the date of actual payment at the rate of interest equal to the sum of (i) the rate of interest published from time to time in The Wall Street Journal, Eastern Edition (or any successor publication thereto), designated therein as the prime rate on the date such payment was due, plus (ii) 200 basis points, together with the costs and expenses of CBAN (including reasonable legal fees and expenses) in connection with such suit.
(c) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth in this Agreement, the Parties agree that if FSRL pays or causes to be paid to CBAN the Termination Fee in accordance with Section 7.02(a), FSRL (or any successor in interest of FSRL) will not have any further obligations or liabilities to CBAN with respect to this Agreement or the transactions contemplated by this Agreement; provided that such termination shall not relieve FSRL for any and all liabilities and damages incurred or suffered by CBAN as a result of the fraud or a willful and material breach of this Agreement by FSRL.
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Section 7.03 Effect of Termination.
Except as set forth in Section 7.02(c), termination of this Agreement will not relieve a breaching party from liability for any breach of any covenant, agreement, representation or warranty of this Agreement (a) giving rise to such termination and (b) resulting from fraud or any willful and material breach. In the event of such termination, this Agreement shall otherwise become void and have no further force or effect; provided; however, that this Section 7.03 and such other provisions of this Agreement as by their terms are intended to survive termination shall survive any termination of this Agreement.
Article
VIII
DEFINITIONS
Section 8.01 Definitions.
The following terms are used in this Agreement with the meanings set forth below:
“Acquisition Proposal” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.09(a).
“Acquisition Transaction” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.09(a).
“Affiliate” means, with respect to any Person, any other Person controlling, controlled by or under common control with such Person. As used in this definition, “control” (including, with its correlative meanings, “controlled by” and “under common control with”) means the possession, directly or indirectly, of power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of a Person whether through the ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise.
“Agreement” has the meaning set forth in the preamble to this Agreement.
“Articles of Merger” has the meaning set forth in Section 1.04(a).
“ASC 320” means GAAP Accounting Standards Codification Topic 320.
“Associate” when used to indicate a relationship with any Person means (a) any corporation or organization (other than FSRL or any of its Subsidiaries) of which such Person is an officer or partner or is, directly or indirectly, the beneficial owner of 10% or more of any class of equity securities, (b) any trust or other estate in which such Person has a substantial beneficial interest or serves as trustee or in a similar fiduciary capacity, or (c) any relative or family member of such Person.
“ASTM” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.01(x).
“Audited Financial Statements” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.07(a).
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“Average Closing Price” means the average of the daily closing prices for shares of CBAN Common Stock for the twenty (20) consecutive full Trading Days ending on the Trading Day immediately preceding the Determination Date on which such shares are actually traded on the NYSE.
“Bank Merger” has the meaning set forth in Section 1.03.
“Bank Plan of Merger” has the meaning set forth in Section 1.03.
“Bank Secrecy Act” means the Bank Secrecy Act of 1970, as amended.
“Board Representatives” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.22(a).
“BOLI” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.33(b).
“Book-Entry Shares” means any non-certificated share held by book entry in FSRL’s stock transfer book, which immediately prior to the Effective Time represents an outstanding share of FSRL Stock.
“Burdensome Condition” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.06(a).
“Business Day” means Monday through Friday of each week, except a legal holiday recognized as such by the U.S. government or any day on which banking institutions in the State of Georgia are authorized or obligated to close.
“Call Reports” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.07(b).
“Carryover PTO” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.11(c).
“Cash Election” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.02(a)(iii).
“Cash Election Shares” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.02(a)(iii).
“CBAN” has the meaning set forth in the preamble to this Agreement.
“CBAN Common Stock” means the common stock, $1.00 par value per share, of CBAN.
“CBAN Common Stock Issuance” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.06(a).
“CBAN Disclosure Schedule” has the meaning set forth in Article IV.
“CBAN Employment Agreements” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.21.
“CBAN Meeting” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.04(a).
“CBAN Ratio” has the meaning set forth in Section 7.01(i).
“CBAN Recommendation” shall have the meanings set forth in Section 5.04(c).
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“CBAN Reports” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.05(a).
“CBAN RSU” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.03(b).
“Certificate” means any outstanding certificate, which immediately prior to the Effective Time, represents an outstanding share of FSRL Stock.
“Claim” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.10(a).
“Closing” and “Closing Date” have the meanings set forth in Section 1.04(b).
“Code” has the meaning set forth in the Recitals.
“Community Reinvestment Act” means the Community Reinvestment Act of 1977, as amended.
“Controlled Group Members” means, with respect to the applicable entity, any related organizations described in Code Sections 414(b), (c), or (m).
“Covered Employees” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.11(a).
“Customary Servicing Procedure” means, with respect to each Mortgage Loan, those mortgage servicing practices and procedures (including collection procedures) that are in all material respects legal, proper and customary in the mortgage servicing business of prudent mortgage servicers that service mortgage loans of the same type as such Mortgage Loan in the jurisdiction where the related Mortgaged Property is located, and which are in accordance with (a) the terms of the related Mortgage Note and Mortgage, and (b) applicable Law.
“D&O Insurance” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.10(d).
“Derivative Transaction” means any swap transaction, option, warrant, forward purchase or sale transaction, futures transaction, cap transaction, floor transaction or collar transaction relating to one or more currencies, commodities, bonds, equity securities, loans, interest rates, catastrophe events, weather-related events, credit-related events or conditions or any indexes, or any other similar transaction (including any option with respect to any of these transactions) or combination of any of these transactions, including collateralized mortgage obligations or other similar instruments or any debt or equity instruments evidencing or embedding any such types of transactions, and any related credit support, collateral or other similar arrangements related to any such transaction or transactions.
“Determination Date” has the meaning set forth in Section 7.01(i).
“Director Restrictive Covenant Agreements” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.19.
“Dissenting Shareholder” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.01(c).
“Dissenting Shares” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.01(c).
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“Dodd-Frank Act” means the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act.
“Effective Time” has the meaning set forth in Section 1.04(a).
“Election Deadline” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.02(a)(iv).
“Election Form” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.02(a)(iii).
“Enforceability Exception” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.05.
“Environmental Law” means any federal, state or local Law, regulation, order, decree, permit, authorization, opinion or agency requirement relating to: (a) pollution, the protection or restoration of the indoor or outdoor environment, human health and safety, or natural resources, (b) the handling, use, presence, disposal, release or threatened release of any Hazardous Substance, or (c) any injury or threat of injury to persons or property in connection with any Hazardous Substance. The term Environmental Law includes, but is not limited to, the following statutes, as amended, any successor thereto, and any regulations promulgated pursuant thereto, and any state or local statutes, ordinances, rules, regulations and the like addressing similar issues: (i) Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, as amended by the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986, as amended, 42 U.S.C. § 9601 et seq.; the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C. § 6901, et seq.; the Clean Air Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C. § 7401, et seq.; the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, as amended, 33 U.S.C. § 1251, et seq.; the Toxic Substances Control Act, as amended, 15 U.S.C. § 2601, et seq.; the Emergency Planning and Community Right to Know Act, 42 U.S.C. § 1101, et seq.; the Safe Drinking Water Act; 42 U.S.C. § 300f, et seq.; the Occupational Safety and Health Act, 29 U.S.C. § 651, et seq.; (ii) common Law that may impose liability (including without limitation strict liability) or obligations for injuries or damages due to the presence of or exposure to any Hazardous Substance.
“Equal Credit Opportunity Act” means the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, as amended.
“ERISA” means the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended.
“ERISA Affiliate” means, with respect to the applicable entity, an organization that is related under Section 4001(b) of ERISA.
“ESOP” means the First Reliance Bank Employee Stock Ownership Plan, as amended through the date hereof.
“ESOP Trust” means the trust established and maintained in connection with the ESOP.
“ESOP Trustees” means the person(s) currently serving as trustee(s) of the ESOP Trust.
“Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.
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“Exchange Agent” means such exchange agent as may be designated by CBAN (which shall be CBAN’s transfer agent), and reasonably acceptable to FSRL, to act as agent for purposes of conducting the exchange procedures described in Article II.
“Exchange Fund” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.08(a).
“Exchange Ratio” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.01(d)(ii).
“Excluded Claim” means (a) any Claim brought by any Indemnified Party against any other Indemnified Party or CBAN or its Subsidiaries (or their respective successors) or (b) any Claim brought by CBAN or its Subsidiaries (or their respective successors) against any Indemnified Party.
“Expiration Date” has the meaning set forth in Section 7.01(f).
“Fair Credit Reporting Act” means the Fair Credit Reporting Act, as amended.
“Fair Housing Act” means the Fair Housing Act, as amended.
“Fannie Mae” means the Federal National Mortgage Association.
“Fannie Mae Guide” means the Fannie Mae Single Family Seller/Servicing Guide.
“Freddie Mac” means the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, or any successor thereto.
“Freddie Mac Guide” means the Freddie Mac Single Family Seller/Servicing Guide.
“FDIA” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.28.
“FDIC” means the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
“FFIEC” means the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council.
“Final Index Price” shall mean the average of the Index Prices for the twenty (20) consecutive full Trading Days ending on the Determination Date or, if the Determination Date is not a full Trading Day, the Trading Day immediately prior to the Determination Date.
“Financial Statements” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.07(a).
“First Reliance Bank” has the meaning set forth in Section 1.03.
“FRB” means the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System.
“FSRL” has the meaning set forth in the preamble to this Agreement.
“FSRL 401(a) Plan” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.16(c).
“FSRL Benefit Plans” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.16(a).
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“FSRL Cancelled Shares” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.01(b).
“FSRL Common Stock” means the common stock, $0.01 par value per share, of FSRL.
“FSRL Disclosure Schedule” has the meaning set forth in Article III.
“FSRL Employees” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.16(a).
“FSRL Expenses” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.24.
“FSRL Financial Advisor” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.15.
“FSRL Intellectual Property” means the Intellectual Property used in or held for use in the conduct of the business of FSRL and its Subsidiaries.
“FSRL Investment Securities” means the investment securities of FSRL and its Subsidiaries.
“FSRL Junior Subordinated Debt” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b).
“FSRL Loan” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.23(c).
“FSRL Material Contracts” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.13(a).
“FSRL Meeting” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.04(a).
“FSRL Option” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.03(d).
“FSRL Preferred Stock” means the series D preferred stock, no par value, of FSRL.
“FSRL Recommendation” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.04(b).
“FSRL Regulatory Agreement” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.14.
“FSRL Representatives” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.09(a).
“FSRL RSA” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.03(c).
“FSRL RSU” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.03(a).
“FSRL Stock” means the capital stock of FSRL, including FSRL Common Stock and FSRL Preferred Stock.
“FSRL Stock Plan” means the First Reliance Bancshares, Inc. 2021 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended and restated on February 26, 2026.
“FSRL Subsequent Determination” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.09(e).
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“FSRL Voting Agreement” or “FSRL Voting Agreements” shall have the meaning set forth in the recitals to this Agreement.
“GAAP” means generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America, applied consistently with past practice, including with respect to quantity and frequency.
“GBCC” has the meaning set forth in Section 1.01.
“Governmental Authority” means any U.S. or foreign federal, state or local governmental commission, board, body, bureau or other regulatory authority or agency, including, without limitation, courts and other judicial bodies, bank regulators, insurance regulators, applicable state securities authorities, the SEC, the IRS, state banking departments, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, the Federal Housing Administration, the Small Business Association, the Veteran’s Administration and the United States Department of Agriculture or any self-regulatory body or authority, including any instrumentality or entity designed to act for or on behalf of the foregoing.
“Hazardous Substance” means any and all substances (whether solid, liquid or gas) defined, listed, or otherwise regulated as pollutants, hazardous wastes, hazardous substances, hazardous materials, extremely hazardous wastes, flammable or explosive materials, radioactive materials or words of similar meaning or regulatory effect under any present or future Environmental Law or that may have a negative impact on human health or the environment, including, but not limited to, petroleum and petroleum products, asbestos and asbestos-containing materials, polychlorinated biphenyls, lead, radon, radioactive materials, flammables and explosives, mold, mycotoxins, microbial matter and airborne pathogens (naturally occurring or otherwise). Hazardous Substance does not include substances of kinds and in amounts ordinarily and customarily used or stored for the purposes of cleaning or other maintenance or operations.
“Holder” means the holder of record of shares of FSRL Stock.
“Home Mortgage Disclosure Act” means Home Mortgage Disclosure Act of 1975, as amended.
“Indemnified Party” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.10(a).
“Index Price” shall mean the closing price on such date of the NASDAQ Bank Index.
“Index Ratio” has the meaning set forth in Section 7.01(i).
“Informational Systems Conversion” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.13.
“Insurance Policies” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.33(a).
“Intellectual Property” means (a) trademarks, service marks, trade names, Internet domain names, designs, logos, slogans, and general intangibles of like nature, together with all goodwill, registrations and applications related to the foregoing; (b) patents and industrial designs (including any continuations, divisionals, continuations-in-part, renewals, reissues, and applications for any of the foregoing); (c) copyrights (including any registrations and applications for any of the foregoing); (d) Software (excluding off-the-shelf Software); and (e) technology, trade secrets and other confidential information, know-how, proprietary processes, formulae, algorithms, models, and methodologies.
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“IRS” means the United States Internal Revenue Service.
“Knowledge” means, with respect to FSRL, the actual knowledge, of the Persons set forth in FSRL Disclosure Schedule 8.01, after due inquiry of their direct subordinates who would be likely to have knowledge of such matter, and with respect to CBAN, the actual knowledge of the Persons set forth in CBAN Disclosure Schedule 8.01, after due inquiry of their direct subordinates who would be likely to have knowledge of such matter.
“Law” means any federal, state, local or foreign Law, statute, ordinance, rule, regulation, judgment, order, injunction, decree, arbitration award, agency requirement, license or permit of any Governmental Authority that is applicable to the referenced Person.
“Leases” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.31(b).
“Letter of Transmittal” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.07.
“Liens” means any charge, mortgage, pledge, security interest, restriction, claim, lien or encumbrance, conditional and installment sale agreement, charge, claim, option, rights of first refusal, encumbrances, or security interest of any kind or nature whatsoever (including any limitation on voting, sale, transfer or other disposition or exercise of any other attribute of ownership).
“Loans” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.23(a).
“Mailing Date” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.02(a)(iii).
“Material Adverse Effect” with respect to any party means (a) any change, development or effect that individually or in the aggregate is, or is reasonably likely to be, material and adverse to the condition (financial or otherwise), results of operations, liquidity, assets or deposit liabilities, properties, or business of such party and its Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, or (b) any change, development or effect that individually or in the aggregate would, or would be reasonably likely to, materially impair the ability of such party to perform its obligations under this Agreement or otherwise materially impairs, or is reasonably likely to materially impair, the ability of such party to consummate the Merger and the transactions contemplated hereby; provided, however, that, in the case of clause (a) only, a Material Adverse Effect shall not be deemed to include the impact of (i) changes after the date of this Agreement in banking and similar Laws of general applicability or interpretations thereof by Governmental Authorities (except to the extent that such change disproportionately adversely affects FSRL and its Subsidiaries or CBAN and its Subsidiaries, as the case may be, compared to other companies of similar size operating in the same industry in which FSRL and CBAN operate, in which case only the disproportionate effect will be taken into account), (ii) changes after the date of this Agreement in GAAP or regulatory accounting requirements applicable to banks or bank holding companies generally (except to the extent that such change disproportionately adversely affects FSRL and its Subsidiaries or CBAN and its Subsidiaries, as the case may be, compared to other companies of similar size operating in the same industry in which FSRL and CBAN operate, in which case only the disproportionate effect will be taken into account), (iii) changes after the date of this Agreement in global, national or regional political conditions (including the outbreak of war or acts of terrorism) or in economic or market (including equity, credit and debt markets, as well as changes in interest rates) conditions in the United States or the State of Georgia affecting the financial services industry generally (except to the extent that such change disproportionately adversely affects FSRL and its Subsidiaries or CBAN and its Subsidiaries, as the case may be, compared to other companies of similar size operating in the same industry in which FSRL and CBAN operate, in which case only the disproportionate effect will be taken into account), (iv) public disclosure of the transactions contemplated hereby or actions expressly required by this Agreement or actions or omissions that are taken with the prior written consent of the other party, or as otherwise expressly permitted or contemplated by this Agreement; (v) any failure by FSRL or CBAN to meet any internal or published industry analyst projections or forecasts or estimates of revenues or earnings for any period (it being understood and agreed that the facts and circumstances giving rise to such failure that are not otherwise excluded from the definition of Material Adverse Effect may be taken into account in determining whether there has been a Material Adverse Effect), (vi) changes in the trading price or trading volume of CBAN Common Stock, and (vii) the impact of the public disclosure of this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby on relationships with customers or employees (including the loss of personnel subsequent to the date of this Agreement).
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“Maximum D&O Tail Premium” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.10(d).
“Merger” has the meaning set forth in the recitals.
“Merger Consideration” means the aggregate Per Share Merger Consideration payable to Holders of FSRL Stock hereunder.
“Minimum Stock Consideration Amount” means an amount that is great than or equal to the lesser of the following:
(a) an amount equal to the product of the Starting CBAN Stock Price, the maximum number of shares of CBAN Common Stock to be issued as Merger Consideration, and 0.80; or
(b) an amount equal to (i) the product of the Index Ratio, 0.80, the maximum number of shares of CBAN Common Stock to be issued as Merger Consideration, and the Average Closing Price, divided by the CBAN Ratio.
“Mortgage” means with respect to a Mortgage Loan, the mortgage, deed of trust or other instrument securing the related Mortgage Note.
“Mortgage Loans” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.41.
“Mortgage Note” means the note or other evidence of the indebtedness of a Mortgagor secured by a Mortgage and any riders thereto.
“Mortgaged Property” means the real property and fixtures encumbered by a Mortgage.
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“Mortgagor” means with respect to each Mortgage Loan, the obligor on a Mortgage Note, including any co-borrower, co-maker, co-signor or guarantor, who is obligated under the terms of such Mortgage Note.
“National Labor Relations Act” means the National Labor Relations Act, as amended.
“Non-Election Shares” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.02(a)(iii).
“Notice of Superior Proposal” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.09(e).
“Notice Period” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.09(e).
“NYSE” means the New York Stock Exchange.
“Observer” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.22(b).
“OCC” means the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency.
“Ordinary Course of Business” means the ordinary, usual and customary course of business of FSRL and FSRL’s Subsidiaries consistent with past practice, including with respect to frequency and amount.
“OREO” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.23(b).
“OTCQX Market” means Over-the-Counter Quotation Exchange.
“Party” or “Parties” have the meaning set forth in the preamble.
“Per Share Cash Consideration” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.01(d)(i).
“Per Share Merger Consideration” means the Per Share Cash Consideration or the Per Share Stock Consideration, as applicable.
“Per Share Stock Consideration” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.01(d)(ii).
“Person” means any individual, bank, corporation, partnership, association, joint-stock company, business trust, limited liability company, unincorporated organization or other organization or firm of any kind or nature.
“Phase I” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.01(x).
“Plan of Merger” has the meaning set forth in Section 1.04(a).
“Proxy Statement-Prospectus” means the joint proxy statement and prospectus and other proxy solicitation materials of CBAN and FSRL relating to the CBAN Meeting and the FSRL Meeting.
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“Registration Statement” means the Registration Statement on Form S-4 to be filed with the SEC by CBAN in connection with the CBAN Common Stock Issuance (including the Proxy Statement-Prospectus constituting a part thereof).
“Regulations” means the final and temporary regulations promulgated under the Code by the United States Department of the Treasury.
“Regulatory Approvals” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.06(a).
“Representative” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.02(a)(iii).
“Requesting Party” has the meaning set forth in Section 1.05.
“Requisite CBAN Shareholder Approval” means approval of the issuance of CBAN Common Stock as contemplated by this Agreement, by a vote (in person or by proxy) of the majority of the votes cast by holders of CBAN Common Stock entitled to vote thereon at the CBAN Meeting.
“Requisite FSRL Shareholder Approval” means approval of this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby by a vote (in person or by proxy) of two thirds of the votes entitled to be cast by the holders of FSRL Common Stock and FSRL Preferred Stock (voting together with the holders of FSRL Common Stock as a single voting group) entitled to vote thereon at the FSRL Meeting. Such approval must also include the ESOP Vote as required by law.
“Rights” means, with respect to any Person, warrants, options, rights, convertible securities and other arrangements or commitments which obligate the Person to issue or dispose of any of its capital stock or other ownership interests.
“Rollover RSU” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.03(a).
“Sarbanes-Oxley Act” means the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, as amended.
“SBA” means the Small Business Administration.
“SCBCA” means the South Carolina Business Corporation Act.
“SEC” means the Securities and Exchange Commission.
“Securities Act” means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.
“Shortfall Number” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.02(b)(ii).
“Software” means computer programs, whether in source code or object code form (including any and all software implementation of algorithms, models and methodologies), databases and compilations (including any and all data and collections of data), and all documentation (including user manuals and training materials) related to the foregoing.
“SRO” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.06(a).
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“Starting CBAN Stock Price” shall mean $21.08.
“Starting Index Price” shall mean $5,193.85.
“Stock Conversion Maximum” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.02(a)(ii).
“Stock Election” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.02(a)(iii).
“Stock Election Number” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.02(b)(i).
“Stock Election Shares” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.02(a)(iii).
“Subsidiary” means, with respect to any party, any corporation or other entity of which a majority of the capital stock or other ownership interest having ordinary voting power to elect a majority of the board of directors or other persons performing similar functions are at the time directly or indirectly owned by such party. Any reference in this Agreement to a Subsidiary of FSRL means, unless the context otherwise requires, any current or former Subsidiary of FSRL.
“Superior Proposal” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.09(a).
“Surviving Bank” has the meaning set forth in Section 1.03.
“Surviving Entity” has the meaning set forth in the Recitals.
“Systems” means all hardware, computers, software, websites, applications, databases, systems, networks and other information technology assets and equipment.
“Takeover Statutes” has the meaning set for in Section 5.29.
“Tax” and “Taxes” shall mean all federal, state, local, and foreign taxes, charges, fees, levies, imposts, duties, or other like assessments, including assessments for unclaimed property, as well as income, gross receipts, excise, employment, sales, use, transfer, intangible, recording, license, payroll, franchise, severance, documentary, stamp, occupation, windfall profits, environmental, federal highway use, commercial rent, customs duties, capital stock, paid-up capital, profits, withholding, Social Security, single business and unemployment, disability, real property, personal property, registration, ad valorem, value added, alternative or add-on minimum, estimated, or other tax or governmental fee of any kind whatsoever, or any amount in respect of unclaimed property or escheat, imposed by or required to be paid or withheld by the United States or any state, local, or foreign government or subdivision or agency thereof, whether disputed or not, including any related interest, penalties, and additions imposed thereon or with respect thereto, and including any liability for Taxes of another Person pursuant to a contract, as a transferee or successor, under Treasury Regulation Section 1.1502-6 or analogous provision of state, local or foreign Law or otherwise.
“Tax Returns” shall mean any report, return, declaration, claim for refund, information return or statement relating to Taxes, including any associated schedules, forms, attachments or amendments and any related or supporting information, estimates, elections, or statements provided or required to be provided to the appropriate Governmental Authority in connection with Taxes, including any return of an affiliated or combined or unitary group that includes a Party or its Subsidiaries and including without limitation any estimated Tax return.
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“Terminated Contracts” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.15.
“Termination Date” has the meaning set forth in Section 7.01(i).
“Termination Fee” has the meaning set forth in Section 7.02(a).
“The date hereof” or “the date of this Agreement” means the date first set forth above in the preamble to this Agreement.
“Trading Day” means any day on which NYSE is open for trading; provided that a “Trading Day” only includes those days that have a scheduled closing time of 4:00 p.m. (Eastern Time).
“Truth in Lending Act” means the Truth in Lending Act of 1968, as amended.
“Unaudited Financial Statements” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.07(a).
“USA PATRIOT Act” means the USA PATRIOT Act of 2001, Public Law 107-56, and the regulations promulgated thereunder.
“Vesting Conditions” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.03(b).
Article
IX
MISCELLANEOUS
Section 9.01 Survival.
No representations, warranties, agreements or covenants contained in this Agreement shall survive the Effective Time other than this Section 9.01 and any other agreements or covenants contained herein that by their express terms are to be performed after the Effective Time, including, without limitation, Section 5.10.
Section 9.02 Waiver; Amendment.
Prior to the Effective Time and to the extent permitted by applicable Law, any provision of this Agreement may be (a) waived by the Party benefited by the provision, provided such waiver is in writing and signed by such Party, or (b) amended or modified at any time, by an agreement in writing among the Parties executed in the same manner as this Agreement, except that after the CBAN Meeting or the FSRL Meeting no amendment shall be made which by Law requires further approval by the shareholders of CBAN or FSRL, as applicable, without obtaining such approval. The waiver by either Party of a breach of any provision of this Agreement shall not operate or be construed as a further or continuing waiver of such breach or as a waiver of any other or subsequent breach.
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Section 9.03 Governing Law; Jurisdiction; Waiver of Right to Trial by Jury.
(a) This Agreement shall be governed by, and interpreted and enforced in accordance with, the internal, substantive laws of the State of Georgia, without regard for conflict of law provisions.
(b) Each Party agrees that it will bring any action or proceeding in respect of any claim arising out of or related to this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby exclusively in any federal or state court of competent jurisdiction located in the State of Georgia (the “Georgia Courts”), and, solely in connection with claims arising under this Agreement or the transactions that are the subject of this Agreement, (i) irrevocably submits to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Georgia Courts, (ii) waives any objection to laying venue in any such action or proceeding in the Georgia Courts, (iii) waives any objection that the Georgia Courts are an inconvenient forum or do not have jurisdiction over any party and (iv) agrees that service of process upon such party in any such action or proceeding will be effective if notice is given in accordance with Section 9.05.
(c) Each Party acknowledges and agrees that any controversy which may arise under this Agreement is likely to involve complicated and difficult issues, and therefore each such Party hereby irrevocably and unconditionally waives any right such Party may have to a trial by jury in respect of any litigation directly or indirectly arising out of or relating to this Agreement, or the transactions contemplated by this Agreement. Each Party certifies and acknowledges that (i) no representative, agent or attorney of any other party has represented, expressly or otherwise, that such other party would not, in the event of litigation, seek to enforce the foregoing waiver, (ii) each Party understands and has considered the implications of this waiver, (iii) each Party makes this waiver voluntarily, and (iv) each Party has been induced to enter into this Agreement by, among other things, the mutual waivers and certifications in this Section 9.03.
Section 9.04 Expenses.
Except as otherwise provided in Section 7.02, each Party will bear all expenses incurred by it in connection with this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby, including fees and expenses of its own financial consultants, accountants and counsel. Nothing contained in this Agreement shall limit either Party’s rights to recover any liabilities or damages arising out of the other Party’s willful breach of any provision of this Agreement.
Section 9.05 Notices.
All notices, requests and other communications hereunder to a Party, shall be in writing and shall be deemed properly given if delivered (a) personally, (b) by registered or certified mail (return receipt requested), with adequate postage prepaid thereon, (c) by properly addressed electronic mail delivery (with confirmation of delivery receipt), or (d) by reputable courier service to such Party at its address set forth below, or at such other address or addresses as such Party may specify from time to time by notice in like manner to the Parties. All notices shall be deemed effective upon delivery.
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(a) if to CBAN, to:
Colony Bankcorp, Inc.
115 South Grant Street
Fitzgerald, Georgia 31750
Attn: T. Heath Fountain, Chief Executive Officer
E-mail: heath.fountain@colonybank.com
with a copy (which shall not constitute notice to CBAN) to:
Alston & Bird LLP
One Atlantic Center
1201 West Peachtree Street
Atlanta, Georgia 30309
Attn: Mark C. Kanaly
David S. Park
E-mail: mark.kanaly@alston.com
david.park@alston.com
(b) if to FSRL, to:
First Reliance Bancshares, Inc.
2170 West Palmetto Street
Florence, South Carolina 29501
Attn: F.R. Saunders, Jr.
E-mail: rsaunders@firstreliance.com
with a copy (which shall not constitute notice to FSRL) to:
Ward and Smith, P.A.
127 Racine Drive
Post Office Box 7068
Wilmington, North Carolina
Attn: B.T. Atkinson
E-mail: btatkinson@wardandsmith.com
Section 9.06 Entire Understanding; No Third-Party Beneficiaries.
This Agreement represents the entire understanding of the Parties and thereto with reference to the transactions contemplated hereby, and this Agreement supersedes any and all other oral or written agreements heretofore made. Except for the Indemnified Parties’ rights under Section 5.10, CBAN and FSRL hereby agree that their respective representations, warranties and covenants set forth herein are solely for the benefit of the other Party, in accordance with and subject to the terms of this Agreement, and this Agreement is not intended to, and does not, confer upon any Person (including any person or employees who might be affected by Section 5.11), other than the Parties, any rights or remedies hereunder, including, the right to rely upon the representations and warranties set forth herein. The representations and warranties in this Agreement are the product of negotiations between the Parties and are for the sole benefit of the Parties. Consequently, Persons other than the Parties may not rely upon the representations and warranties in this Agreement as characterizations of actual facts or circumstances as of the date of this Agreement or as of any other date.
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Section 9.07 Severability.
In the event that any one or more provisions of this Agreement shall for any reason be held invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect, by any court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity, illegality or unenforceability shall not affect any other provisions of this Agreement and the Parties will use their commercially reasonable efforts to substitute a valid, legal and enforceable provision which, insofar as practical, implements the purposes and intents of this Agreement.
Section 9.08 Enforcement of the Agreement.
The Parties agree that irreparable damage would occur in the event that any of the provisions of this Agreement were not performed in accordance with their specific terms or were otherwise breached. It is accordingly agreed that the Parties shall be entitled to seek an injunction or injunctions to prevent breaches of this Agreement and to enforce specifically the terms and provisions hereof in any court of the United States or any state having jurisdiction without having to show or prove economic damages and without the requirement of posting a bond, this being in addition to any other remedy to which they are entitled at law or in equity.
Section 9.09 Interpretation.
(a) When a reference is made in this Agreement to sections, exhibits or schedules, such reference shall be to a section of, or exhibit or schedule to, this Agreement unless otherwise indicated. The table of contents and captions and headings contained in this Agreement are included solely for convenience of reference; if there is any conflict between a caption or heading and the text of this Agreement, the text shall control. Whenever the words “include,” “includes” or “including” are used in this Agreement, they shall be deemed to be followed by the words “without limitation.”
(b) The Parties have participated jointly in the negotiation and drafting of this Agreement and the other agreements and documents contemplated herein. In the event an ambiguity or question of intent or interpretation arises under any provision of this Agreement or any other agreement or document contemplated herein, this Agreement and such other agreements or documents shall be construed as if drafted jointly by the Parties, and no presumption or burden of proof shall arise favoring or disfavoring any party by virtue of authorizing any of the provisions of this Agreement or any other agreements or documents contemplated herein.
(c) The FSRL Disclosure Schedule and the CBAN Disclosure Schedule, as well as all other schedules and all exhibits to this Agreement, shall be deemed part of this Agreement and included in any reference to this Agreement. Any matter disclosed pursuant to any section of either the FSRL Disclosure Schedule or the CBAN Disclosure Schedule shall be deemed disclosed for purposes of any other section of Article III or Article IV, respectively, to the extent that applicability of the disclosure to such other section is reasonably apparent on the face, notwithstanding the absence of a specific cross-reference, of such disclosure. No item is required to be set forth in either the FSRL Disclosure Schedule or the CBAN Disclosure Schedule as an exception to a representation or warranty if its absence would not result in the related representation or warranty being deemed untrue or incorrect. The mere inclusion of an item in either Disclosure Schedule as an exception to a representation or warranty shall not be deemed an admission by either party that such item represents a material exception or fact, event or circumstance or that such item is reasonably likely to result in a Material Adverse Effect, or that any breach or violation of applicable Laws or any contract exists or has actually occurred. This Agreement shall not be interpreted or construed to require any person to take any action, or fail to take any action, if to do so would violate any applicable Law.
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(d) Any reference contained in this Agreement to specific statutory or regulatory provisions or to any specific Governmental Authority shall include any successor statute or regulation, or successor Governmental Authority, as the case may be. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the masculine, feminine, and neuter genders will be deemed to be interchangeable, and the singular includes the plural and vice versa. As used herein, (i) the term “made available” means any document or other information that was (a) provided by one party or its representatives to the other party or its representatives prior to the date hereof or (b) included in the virtual data room of a party prior to the date hereof, and (ii) the word “or” is not exclusive.
(e) Unless otherwise specified, the references to “Section” and “Article” in this Agreement are to the Sections and Article of this Agreement. When used in this Agreement, words such as “herein”, “hereinafter”, “hereof”, “hereto”, and “hereunder” refer to this Agreement as a whole, unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
Section 9.10 Assignment.
No Party may assign either this Agreement or any of its rights, interests or obligations hereunder without the prior written approval of the other Party, and any purported assignment in violation of this Section 9.10 shall be void. Subject to the preceding sentence, this Agreement shall be binding upon and shall inure to the benefit of the Parties and their respective successors and permitted assigns.
Section 9.11 Confidential Supervisory Information.
Information and documents commonly known as “confidential supervisory information” that is prohibited from disclosure under 12 C.F.R. § 261.2(b), 12 C.F.R. § 309.6, or 12 C.F.R. § 4.32(b) shall not be disclosed by either Party and nothing in this Agreement shall require such disclosure or be understood as constituting such disclosure.
Section 9.12 Counterparts.
This Agreement may be executed and delivered by facsimile or by electronic data file and in one or more counterparts, all of which shall be considered one and the same agreement and shall become effective when one or more counterparts have been signed by each of the Parties and delivered to the other Party, it being understood that all Parties need not sign the same counterpart. Signatures delivered by facsimile or by electronic data file shall have the same effect as originals.
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[Signature Page Follows]
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have caused this Agreement to be executed in counterparts by their duly authorized officers, all as of the day and year first above written.
| COLONY BANKCORP, INC. | ||
| /s/ T. Heath Fountain | ||
| T. Heath Fountain | ||
| Chief Executive Officer | ||
| FIRST RELIANCE BANCSHARES, INC. | ||
| /s/ F.R. Saunders, Jr. | ||
| F.R. Saunders, Jr. | ||
| Chief Executive Officer | ||
[Signature Page to Agreement and Plan of Merger]
EXHIBIT A
FSRL VOTING AGREEMENT
THIS VOTING AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”) is dated as of June [___], 2026, by and between the undersigned holder (“Shareholder”) of capital stock of First Reliance Bancshares, Inc. a South Carolina corporation (“FSRL”), and Colony Bankcorp, Inc., a Georgia corporation (“CBAN”). All capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the meanings assigned to them in the Merger Agreement (defined below).
RECITALS:
WHEREAS, concurrently with the execution of this Agreement, CBAN and FSRL are entering into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (as such agreement may be subsequently amended or modified, the “Merger Agreement”), pursuant to which (i) FSRL will merge with and into CBAN, with CBAN as the surviving entity, and (ii) First Reliance Bank, a South Carolina state-chartered bank and a direct wholly-owned subsidiary of FSRL, will merge with and into Colony Bank, a Georgia state-chartered bank and a direct wholly owned subsidiary of CBAN, with Colony Bank as the surviving bank (collectively, the “Merger”), and in connection with the Merger, each issued and outstanding share of FSRL Stock immediately prior to the Effective Time (apart from the Dissenting Shares and the FSRL Cancelled Shares) will be converted into and exchanged for the right to receive the Merger Consideration and cash in lieu of fractional shares.
WHEREAS, Shareholder “beneficially owns” (as such term is defined in Rule 13d-3 promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) and is entitled to dispose of (or direct the disposition of) and to vote (or direct the voting of) directly or indirectly the number of shares of FSRL Stock indicated on the signature page of this Agreement under the heading “Total Number of Shares of FSRL Stock Subject to this Agreement;” provided, that such shares do not include shares beneficially owned by Shareholder but subject to the voting direction of a third party with regard to voting on the Merger (such shares, together with any additional shares of FSRL Stock subsequently acquired by Shareholder during the term of this Agreement, including through the exercise of any stock option or other equity award, warrant or similar instrument, being referred to collectively as the “Shares”); and
WHEREAS, it is a material inducement to and condition of CBAN’s willingness to enter into the Merger Agreement that Shareholder execute and deliver this Agreement.
AGREEMENT:
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of CBAN entering into the Merger Agreement and proceeding with the transactions contemplated thereby, and in consideration of the expenses incurred and to be incurred by CBAN in connection therewith, Shareholder and CBAN agree as follows:
Agreement to Vote Shares. Shareholder irrevocably and unconditionally agrees that, while this Agreement is in effect, at any meeting of shareholders of FSRL, however called, or at any adjournment thereof, or in any action proposed to be taken by written consent of the shareholders of FSRL, or in any other circumstances in which Shareholder is entitled to vote, consent or give any other approval, except as otherwise agreed to in writing in advance by CBAN, Shareholder shall:
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appear at each such meeting in person or by proxy or otherwise cause the Shares to be counted as present thereat for purposes of calculating a quorum; and
vote (or cause to be voted), in person or by proxy, all the Shares as to which the Shareholder has, directly or indirectly, the right to vote or direct the voting, (i) in favor of adoption and approval of the Merger Agreement and the consummation of the transactions contemplated thereby (including any amendments or modifications of the terms thereof approved by the board of directors of FSRL and adopted in accordance with the terms thereof); (ii) in favor of any proposal to adjourn or postpone such meeting, if necessary, to solicit additional proxies to approve the Merger Agreement; (iii) against any action or agreement that would result in a breach of any covenant, representation or warranty or any other obligation or agreement of FSRL contained in the Merger Agreement or of Shareholder contained in this Agreement; and (iv) against any Acquisition Proposal or any other action, agreement or transaction that is intended, or could reasonably be expected, to impede, interfere or be inconsistent with, delay, postpone, discourage or materially and adversely affect consummation of the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement or this Agreement.
Shareholder further agrees not to vote or execute any written consent to rescind or amend in any manner any prior vote or written consent, as a shareholder of FSRL, to approve or adopt the Merger Agreement unless this Agreement shall have been terminated in accordance with its terms.
No Inconsistent Agreements. Shareholder hereby covenants and agrees that, except for this Agreement, Shareholder (i) shall not enter into, at any time while this Agreement remains in effect, any voting agreement or voting trust or any other contract with respect to the Shares, (ii) shall not grant at any time while this Agreement remains in effect, a proxy (other than as required to effect Shareholder’s voting obligations in Section 1), consent or power of attorney in contravention of the obligations of Shareholder under this Agreement with respect to the Shares, (iii) shall not commit any act, except for transfers permitted under Section 3, that could restrict or affect his or her legal power, authority and right to vote any of the Shares then held of record or beneficially owned by Shareholder or otherwise reasonably expected to prevent or disable Shareholder from performing any of his or her obligations under this Agreement, and (iv) shall not take any action that would reasonably be expected to make any representation or warranty of Shareholder contained herein untrue or incorrect or have the effect of impeding, preventing, delaying, interfering with, disabling or adversely affecting the performance by, Shareholder of his or her obligations under this Agreement.
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No Transfers. Until the earlier of (i) the termination of this Agreement pursuant to Section 7 and (ii) receipt of the Requisite FSRL Shareholder Approval, Shareholder agrees not to, directly or indirectly, sell, transfer, pledge, assign or otherwise dispose of, enter into any swap or other arrangement that transfers to another, in whole or in part, any of the economic consequences of ownership of, or enter into any contract option, commitment or other arrangement or understanding with respect to the sale, transfer, pledge, assignment or other disposition of, any of the Shares, except the following transfers shall be permitted: (a) transfers by will or operation of Law, in which case this Agreement shall bind the transferee, (b) transfers pursuant to any pledge agreement, subject to the pledgee agreeing in writing, prior to such transfer, to be bound by the terms of this Agreement, (c) transfers in connection with estate and tax planning purposes, including transfers to relatives, trusts and charitable organizations, subject to each transferee agreeing in writing, prior to such transfer, to be bound by the terms of this Agreement, and (d) such transfers as CBAN may otherwise permit in its sole discretion. Any transfer or other disposition in violation of the terms of this Section 3 shall be null and void. As promptly as practicable following the date hereof, Shareholder shall notify FSRL’s transfer agent that there is a stop transfer order with respect to all of the Shares and that this Agreement places limits on the voting of the Shares; provided, that any such stop transfer order and notice will immediately be withdrawn and terminated by the Shareholder following the termination of this Agreement in accordance with Section 7.
Representations and Warranties of Shareholder. Shareholder represents and warrants to and agrees with CBAN as follows:
Shareholder has all requisite capacity and authority to enter into and perform his, her or its obligations under this Agreement.
This Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by Shareholder, and assuming the due authorization, execution and delivery by CBAN, constitutes a valid and legally binding obligation of Shareholder enforceable against Shareholder in accordance with its terms, subject to bankruptcy, insolvency, fraudulent transfer, reorganization, moratorium and similar laws of general applicability relating to or affecting creditors’ rights and to general equity principles.
The execution and delivery of this Agreement by Shareholder does not, and the performance by Shareholder of his, her or its obligations hereunder and the consummation by Shareholder of the transactions contemplated hereby will not, violate or conflict with, or constitute a default under, any agreement, instrument, contract or other obligation or any order, arbitration award, judgment or decree to which Shareholder is a party or by which Shareholder is bound, or any statute, rule or regulation to which Shareholder is subject or, in the event that Shareholder is a corporation, partnership, trust or other entity, any charter, bylaw or other organizational document of Shareholder.
Shareholder is the record and beneficial owner of, or is the trustee that is the record holder of, and whose beneficiaries are the beneficial owners of, and has good title to all of the Shares, and the Shares are owned free and clear of any liens, security interests, charges or other encumbrances. The Shares do not include shares over which Shareholder exercises control in a fiduciary capacity for any other person or entity that is not an Affiliate of Shareholder, and no representation by Shareholder is made with respect thereto. Shareholder has the right to vote the Shares, and none of the Shares is subject to any voting trust or other agreement, arrangement or restriction with respect to the voting of the Shares, except as contemplated by this Agreement. Shareholder does not own, of record or beneficially, any shares of capital stock of FSRL other than the Shares or any other securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for such capital stock.
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There is no legal action, suit, claim, investigation or proceeding pending against, or, to the knowledge of Shareholder, threatened against or affecting Shareholder, that would reasonably be expected to impair the ability of Shareholder to perform his, her or its obligations under this Agreement or to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby on a timely basis, or that questions the validity of this Agreement or any action taken or to be taken by Shareholder in connection with this Agreement.
No Solicitation and Non-Disparagement. From and after the date hereof until the termination of this Agreement pursuant to Section 7, Shareholder, in his, her or its capacity as a shareholder of FSRL, shall not, nor shall such Shareholder authorize any partner, officer, director, advisor or representative of, such Shareholder or any of his, her or its Affiliates to, directly or indirectly (and, to the extent applicable to Shareholder, such Shareholder shall use commercially reasonable efforts to prohibit any of his, her or its representatives or Affiliates to), (i) initiate, solicit, induce or knowingly encourage, or take any action to facilitate the making of, any inquiry, offer or proposal which constitutes, or could reasonably be expected to lead to, an Acquisition Proposal, (ii) except in his capacity as a director or officer of FSRL and under circumstances for which such actions are permitted for FSRL under the Merger Agreement, participate in any discussions or negotiations regarding any Acquisition Proposal or furnish, or otherwise afford access, to any person (other than CBAN) any information or data with respect to FSRL or otherwise relating to an Acquisition Proposal, (iii) enter into any agreement, agreement in principle or letter of intent with respect to an Acquisition Proposal or approve or resolve to approve any Acquisition Proposal or any agreement, agreement in principle or letter of intent relating to an Acquisition Proposal, (iv) solicit proxies with respect to an Acquisition Proposal (other than the Merger Agreement) or otherwise encourage or assist any party in taking or planning any action that would compete with, restrain or otherwise serve to interfere with or inhibit the timely consummation of the Merger in accordance with the terms of the Merger Agreement, (v) initiate a shareholders’ vote or action by consent of FSRL’s shareholders with respect to an Acquisition Proposal or (vi) make, publish or communicate any negative, defamatory or disparaging statements, remarks or comments concerning or alluding to FSRL, CBAN, First Reliance Bank, Colony Bank or their products, customers, suppliers, licensees, licensors, franchisees or employees.
Specific Performance; Remedies; Attorneys’ Fees. Shareholder acknowledges that it is a condition to the willingness of CBAN to enter into the Merger Agreement that Shareholder execute and deliver this Agreement and that it will be impossible to measure in money the damage to CBAN if Shareholder fails to comply with the obligations imposed by this Agreement and that, in the event of any such failure, CBAN will not have an adequate remedy at Law or in equity. Accordingly, Shareholder agrees that injunctive relief or other equitable remedy is the appropriate remedy for any such failure and will not oppose the granting of such relief on the basis that CBAN has an adequate remedy at Law. Shareholder further agrees that Shareholder will not seek, and agrees to waive any requirement for, the securing or posting of a bond in connection with CBAN’s seeking or obtaining such equitable relief. In addition, after discussing the matter with Shareholder, CBAN shall have the right to inform any third party that CBAN reasonably believes to be, or to be contemplating, participating with Shareholder or receiving from Shareholder assistance in violation of this Agreement, of the terms of this Agreement and of the rights of CBAN hereunder, and that participation by any such persons with Shareholder in activities in violation of Shareholder’s agreement with CBAN set forth in this Agreement may give rise to claims by CBAN against such third party.
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Term of Agreement; Termination. The term of this Agreement shall commence on the date hereof. This Agreement may be terminated at any time prior to consummation of the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement by the mutual written agreement of the parties hereto, and shall be automatically terminated upon the earlier to occur of (i) the Effective Time, (ii) the amendment of the Merger Agreement in any manner that materially and adversely affects any of Shareholder’s rights set forth therein (including, for the avoidance of doubt, any reduction to the Merger Consideration), (iii) termination of the Merger Agreement or (iv) three (3) years from the date hereof. Upon such termination, no party shall have any further obligations or liabilities hereunder; provided, however, that such termination shall not relieve any party from liability for any breach of this Agreement prior to such termination.
Entire Agreement. This Agreement represents the entire understanding of the parties hereto with reference to the transactions contemplated hereby, and this Agreement supersedes any and all other oral or written agreements heretofore made.
Modification and Waiver. No provision of this Agreement may be modified, waived or discharged unless such waiver, modification or discharge is agreed to in writing signed by each party. No waiver by either party hereto at any time of any breach by the other party hereto of, or compliance with, any condition or provision of this Agreement to be performed by such other party shall be deemed a waiver of dissimilar provisions or conditions at the same or any prior subsequent time.
Severability. In the event that any one or more provisions of this Agreement shall for any reason be held invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect, by any court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity, illegality or unenforceability shall not affect any other provisions of this Agreement and the parties shall use their commercially reasonable efforts to substitute a valid, legal and enforceable provision which, insofar as practical, implements the purposes and intents of this Agreement.
Capacity as Shareholder. This Agreement shall apply to Shareholder solely in his, her or its capacity as a shareholder of FSRL and it shall not apply in any manner to Shareholder in his, her or its capacity as a director of FSRL, if applicable. Nothing contained in this Agreement shall be deemed to apply to, or limit in any manner, the obligations of Shareholder to comply with his, her or its fiduciary duties as a director of FSRL, if applicable.
Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by, and interpreted and enforced in accordance with, the internal, substantive laws of the State of Georgia, without regard for conflict of law provisions.
Jurisdiction. Any civil action, counterclaim, proceeding or litigation arising out of or relating to this Agreement shall be brought in the courts of record of the State of Georgia in Ben Hill County or the United States District Court, Middle District of Georgia. Each party consents to the jurisdiction of such Georgia court in any such civil action, counterclaim, proceeding or litigation and waives any objection to the laying of venue of any such civil action, counterclaim, proceeding or litigation in such Georgia court. Service of any court paper may be effected on such party by mail, as provided in this letter, or in such other manner as may be provided under applicable Laws.
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WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL. EACH PARTY ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT ANY CONTROVERSY WHICH MAY ARISE UNDER THIS AGREEMENT IS LIKELY TO INVOLVE COMPLICATED AND DIFFICULT ISSUES, AND THEREFORE EACH SUCH PARTY HEREBY IRREVOCABLY AND UNCONDITIONALLY WAIVES ANY RIGHT SUCH PARTY MAY HAVE TO A TRIAL BY JURY IN RESPECT OF ANY LITIGATION DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT, OR THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED BY THIS AGREEMENT. EACH PARTY CERTIFIES AND ACKNOWLEDGES THAT (A) NO REPRESENTATIVE, AGENT OR ATTORNEY OF ANY OTHER PARTY HAS REPRESENTED, EXPRESSLY OR OTHERWISE, THAT SUCH OTHER PARTY WOULD NOT, IN THE EVENT OF LITIGATION, SEEK TO ENFORCE THE FOREGOING WAIVER, (B) EACH PARTY UNDERSTANDS AND HAS CONSIDERED THE IMPLICATIONS OF THIS WAIVER, (C) EACH PARTY MAKES THIS WAIVER VOLUNTARILY, AND (D) EACH PARTY HAS BEEN INDUCED TO ENTER INTO THIS AGREEMENT BY, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THE MUTUAL WAIVERS AND CERTIFICATIONS IN THIS SECTION 14.
Waiver of Appraisal Rights; Further Assurances. To the extent permitted by applicable Law, Shareholder hereby waives any rights of appraisal or rights to dissent from the Merger or demand fair value for his, her or its Shares in connection with the Merger, in each case, that Shareholder may have under applicable Law. From time to time prior to the termination of this Agreement, at CBAN’s request and without further consideration, Shareholder shall execute and deliver such additional documents and take all such further action as may be reasonably necessary or desirable to effect the actions and consummate the transactions contemplated by this Agreement. Shareholder further agrees not to commence or participate in, and to take all actions necessary to opt out of any class in any class action with respect to, any claim, derivative or otherwise, against CBAN, Colony Bank, FSRL, First Reliance Bank or any of their respective successors relating to the negotiation, execution or delivery of this Agreement or the Merger Agreement or the consummation of the Merger.
Disclosure. Shareholder hereby authorizes FSRL and CBAN to publish and disclose in any announcement or disclosure required by the Securities and Exchange Commission and in the Proxy Statement-Prospectus such Shareholder’s identity and ownership of the Shares and the nature of Shareholder’s obligations under this Agreement; provided, however, that CBAN shall provide Shareholder written drafts of any such disclosure and consider in good faith Shareholder’s comments thereto.
Ownership. Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed to give CBAN any rights to exercise or direct the exercise of voting power as owner of the Shares or to vest in CBAN any direct or indirect ownership or incidents of ownership of or with respect to any of the Shares. All rights, ownership and economic benefits of and relating to the Shares shall remain vested in and belong to the Shareholder, notwithstanding the provisions of this Agreement, and CBAN shall have no authority to manage, direct, superintend, restrict, regulate, govern or administer any of the policies or operations of FSRL or to exercise any power or authority to direct the Shareholder in voting any of the Shares, except as otherwise expressly provided herein.
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Assignment. Except as expressly contemplated hereby, neither this Agreement nor any of the rights, interests or obligations hereunder shall be assigned by any party hereto (whether by operation of Law, including by merger or consolidation, or otherwise) without the prior written consent of the other party. Subject to the foregoing sentence, this Agreement shall be binding upon, inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by the parties hereto and their respective successors and permitted assigns. Any purported assignment in violation of this Section 18 shall be null and void ab initio.
Third-Party Beneficiaries. Nothing in this Agreement, express or implied, is intended to confer upon any Person other than the parties hereto or their respective successors any rights, remedies, obligations or liabilities under or by reason of this Agreement.
Integration. Any singular term in this Agreement shall be deemed to include the plural, and any plural term the singular. Whenever the words “include,” “includes” or “including” are used in this Agreement, they shall be deemed followed by the words “without limitation,” unless the context otherwise requires. Unless the context otherwise requires, any reference herein to any Law shall refer to such Law as amended, modified or reenacted from time to time and any rules or regulations promulgated thereunder.
Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed and delivered by facsimile or by electronic data file and in one or more counterparts, all of which shall be considered one and the same agreement and shall become effective when one or more counterparts have been signed by each of the parties and delivered to the other party, it being understood that all parties need not sign the same counterpart. Signatures delivered by facsimile or by electronic data file shall have the same effect as originals.
[Signature Page Follows]
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed and delivered this Agreement as of the date first written above.
| COLONY BANKCORP, INC. | ||
| By: | _____________________________________ | |
| T. Heath Fountain | ||
| Chief Executive Officer | ||
| SHAREHOLDER | ||
| _________________________________________ | ||
| Printed Name: _____________________________ | ||
Number of Shares of FSRL Stock Subject to this Agreement:___________________________ | ||
[Signature Page – FSRL Voting Agreement]
EXHIBIT B
CBAN VOTING AGREEMENT
THIS VOTING AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”) is dated as of June 24, 2026, by and between the undersigned holder (“Shareholder”) of common stock of Colony Bankcorp, Inc., a Georgia corporation (“CBAN”), and First Reliance Bancshares, Inc., a South Carolina corporation (“FSRL”). All capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the meanings assigned to them in the Merger Agreement (defined below).
RECITALS:
WHEREAS, concurrently with the execution of this Agreement, CBAN and FSRL are entering into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (as such agreement may be subsequently amended or modified, the “Merger Agreement”), pursuant to which (i) FSRL will merge with and into CBAN, with CBAN as the surviving entity, and (ii) First Reliance Bank, a South Carolina state-chartered bank and a direct wholly-owned subsidiary of FSRL, will merge with and into Colony Bank, a Georgia state-chartered bank and a direct wholly owned subsidiary of CBAN, with Colony Bank as the surviving bank (collectively, the “Merger”), and in connection with the Merger, each issued and outstanding share of FSRL Stock immediately prior to the Effective Time (apart from the Dissenting Shares and the FSRL Cancelled Shares) will be converted into and exchanged for the right to receive the Merger Consideration and cash in lieu of fractional shares.
WHEREAS, Shareholder “beneficially owns” (as such term is defined in Rule 13d-3 promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) and is entitled to dispose of (or direct the disposition of) and to vote (or direct the voting of) directly or indirectly the number of shares of CBAN Common Stock indicated on the signature page of this Agreement under the heading “Number of Shares of CBAN Common Stock Subject to this Agreement;” provided, that such shares do not include shares beneficially owned by Shareholder but subject to the voting direction of a third party with regard to voting on the Merger (such shares, together with any additional shares of CBAN Common Stock subsequently acquired by Shareholder during the term of this Agreement, including through the exercise of any stock option or other equity award, warrant or similar instrument, being referred to collectively as the “Shares”); and
WHEREAS, it is a material inducement to and a condition of FSRL’s willingness to enter into the Merger Agreement that Shareholder execute and deliver this Agreement.
AGREEMENT:
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of FSRL entering into the Merger Agreement and proceeding with the transactions contemplated thereby, and in consideration of the expenses incurred and to be incurred by FSRL in connection therewith, Shareholder and FSRL agree as follows:
Section 1. Agreement to Vote Shares. Shareholder agrees that, while this Agreement is in effect, at any meeting of shareholders of CBAN, however called, for the purpose of voting on the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement, or at any adjournment thereof, or in any other circumstances in which Shareholder is entitled to vote, consent or give any other approval, except as otherwise agreed to in writing in advance by FSRL, Shareholder shall:
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(a) appear at each such meeting in person or by proxy or otherwise cause the Shares to be counted as present thereat for purposes of calculating a quorum; and
(b) vote (or cause to be voted), in person or by proxy, all the Shares as to which the Shareholder has, directly or indirectly, the right to vote or direct the voting, (i) in favor of the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement (including any amendments or modifications of the terms thereof approved by the board of directors of CBAN and adopted in accordance with the terms thereof); (ii) in favor of any proposal to adjourn or postpone such meeting, if necessary, to solicit additional proxies to approve the Merger Agreement; and (iii) against any action or agreement that would result in a breach of any covenant, representation or warranty or any other obligation or agreement of CBAN contained in the Merger Agreement or of Shareholder contained in this Agreement.
Shareholder further agrees not to vote or execute any written consent to rescind or amend in any manner any prior vote or written consent, as a shareholder of CBAN, to approve the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement unless this Agreement shall have been terminated in accordance with its terms.
Section 2. No Transfers. Until the earlier of (i) the termination of this Agreement pursuant to Section 5 and (ii) receipt of the approval of shareholders of CBAN of the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement, Shareholder agrees not to, directly or indirectly, sell, transfer, pledge, assign or otherwise dispose of, or enter into any contract option, commitment or other arrangement or understanding with respect to the sale, transfer, pledge, assignment or other disposition of, any of the Shares, except the following transfers shall be permitted: (a) transfers by will or operation of Law, in which case this Agreement shall bind the transferee, (b) transfers pursuant to any pledge agreement, subject to the pledgee agreeing in writing, prior to such transfer, to be bound by the terms of this Agreement, (c) transfers in connection with estate and tax planning purposes, including transfers to relatives, trusts and charitable organizations, subject to each transferee agreeing in writing, prior to such transfer, to be bound by the terms of this Agreement, and (d) such transfers as FSRL may otherwise permit in its sole discretion. Any transfer or other disposition in violation of the terms of this Section 2 shall be null and void.
Section 3. Representations and Warranties of Shareholder. Shareholder represents and warrants to and agrees with CBAN as follows:
(a) Shareholder has all requisite capacity and authority to enter into and perform his, her or its obligations under this Agreement.
(b) This Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by Shareholder, and assuming the due authorization, execution and delivery by FSRL, constitutes a valid and legally binding obligation of Shareholder enforceable against Shareholder in accordance with its terms, subject to bankruptcy, insolvency, fraudulent transfer, reorganization, moratorium and similar laws of general applicability relating to or affecting creditors’ rights and to general equity principles.
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(c) The execution and delivery of this Agreement by Shareholder does not, and the performance by Shareholder of his, her or its obligations hereunder and the consummation by Shareholder of the transactions contemplated hereby will not, violate or conflict with, or constitute a default under, any agreement, instrument, contract or other obligation or any order, arbitration award, judgment or decree to which Shareholder is a party or by which Shareholder is bound, or any statute, rule or regulation to which Shareholder is subject or, in the event that Shareholder is a corporation, partnership, trust or other entity, any charter, bylaw or other organizational document of Shareholder.
(d) Shareholder is the record and beneficial owner of, or is the trustee that is the record holder of, and whose beneficiaries are the beneficial owners of, and has good title to all of the Shares, and the Shares are owned free and clear of any liens, security interests, charges or other encumbrances. The Shares do not include shares over which Shareholder exercises control in a fiduciary capacity for any other person or entity that is not an Affiliate of Shareholder, and no representation by Shareholder is made with respect thereto. Shareholder has the right to vote the Shares, and none of the Shares is subject to any voting trust or other agreement, arrangement or restriction with respect to the voting of the Shares, except as contemplated by this Agreement. Shareholder does not own, of record or beneficially, any shares of capital stock of CBAN Common Stock other than the Shares or any other securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for such capital stock, other than any restricted stock issued by CBAN.
Section 4. Specific Performance; Remedies; Attorneys’ Fees. Shareholder acknowledges that it is a condition to the willingness of FSRL to enter into the Merger Agreement that Shareholder execute and deliver this Agreement and that it will be impossible to measure in money the damage to FSRL if Shareholder fails to comply with the obligations imposed by this Agreement and that, in the event of any such failure, FSRL will not have an adequate remedy at Law or in equity. Accordingly, Shareholder agrees that injunctive relief or other equitable remedy is the appropriate remedy for any such failure and will not oppose the granting of such relief on the basis that FSRL has an adequate remedy at Law. Shareholder further agrees that Shareholder will not seek, and agrees to waive any requirement for, the securing or posting of a bond in connection with FSRL’s seeking or obtaining such equitable relief. In addition, after discussing the matter with Shareholder, FSRL shall have the right to inform any third party that FSRL reasonably believes to be, or to be contemplating, participating with Shareholder or receiving from Shareholder assistance in violation of this Agreement, of the terms of this Agreement and of the rights of FSRL hereunder, and that participation by any such persons with Shareholder in activities in violation of Shareholder’s agreement with FSRL set forth in this Agreement may give rise to claims by FSRL against such third party.
Section 5. Term of Agreement; Termination. The term of this Agreement shall commence on the date hereof. This Agreement may be terminated at any time prior to consummation of the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement by the mutual written agreement of the parties hereto, and shall be automatically terminated upon the earlier to occur of (i) the Effective Time, (ii) the amendment of the Merger Agreement in any manner that materially and adversely affects any of Shareholder’s rights set forth therein (including, for the avoidance of doubt, any change to the Merger Consideration), (iii) termination of the Merger Agreement or (iv) three (3) years from the date hereof. Upon such termination, no party shall have any further obligations or liabilities hereunder; provided, however, that such termination shall not relieve any party from liability for any breach of this Agreement prior to such termination.
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Section 6. Entire Agreement. This Agreement represents the entire understanding of the parties hereto with reference to the transactions contemplated hereby, and this Agreement supersedes any and all other oral or written agreements heretofore made.
Section 7. Modification and Waiver. No provision of this Agreement may be modified, waived or discharged unless such waiver, modification or discharge is agreed to in writing signed by each party. No waiver by either party hereto at any time of any breach by the other party hereto of, or compliance with, any condition or provision of this Agreement to be performed by such other party shall be deemed a waiver of dissimilar provisions or conditions at the same or any prior subsequent time.
Section 8. Severability. In the event that any one or more provisions of this Agreement shall for any reason be held invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect, by any court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity, illegality or unenforceability shall not affect any other provisions of this Agreement and the parties shall use their commercially reasonable efforts to substitute a valid, legal and enforceable provision which, insofar as practical, implements the purposes and intents of this Agreement.
Section 9. Capacity as Shareholder. This Agreement shall apply to Shareholder solely in his, her or its capacity as a shareholder of CBAN and it shall not apply in any manner to Shareholder in his, her or its capacity as a director of CBAN, if applicable. Nothing contained in this Agreement shall be deemed to apply to, or limit in any manner, the obligations of Shareholder to comply with his, her or its fiduciary duties as a director of CBAN, if applicable.
Section 10. Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by, and interpreted and enforced in accordance with, the internal, substantive laws of the State of Georgia, without regard for conflict of law provisions.
Section 11. Jurisdiction. Any civil action, counterclaim, proceeding or litigation arising out of or relating to this Agreement shall be brought in the courts of record of the State of Georgia in Ben Hill County or the United States District Court, Middle District of Georgia. Each party consents to the jurisdiction of such Georgia court in any such civil action, counterclaim, proceeding or litigation and waives any objection to the laying of venue of any such civil action, counterclaim, proceeding or litigation in such Georgia court. Service of any court paper may be effected on such party by mail, as provided in this letter, or in such other manner as may be provided under applicable Laws.
Section 12. WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL. EACH PARTY ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT ANY CONTROVERSY WHICH MAY ARISE UNDER THIS AGREEMENT IS LIKELY TO INVOLVE COMPLICATED AND DIFFICULT ISSUES, AND THEREFORE EACH SUCH PARTY HEREBY IRREVOCABLY AND UNCONDITIONALLY WAIVES ANY RIGHT SUCH PARTY MAY HAVE TO A TRIAL BY JURY IN RESPECT OF ANY LITIGATION DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT, OR THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED BY THIS AGREEMENT. EACH PARTY CERTIFIES AND ACKNOWLEDGES THAT (A) NO REPRESENTATIVE, AGENT OR ATTORNEY OF ANY OTHER PARTY HAS REPRESENTED, EXPRESSLY OR OTHERWISE, THAT SUCH OTHER PARTY WOULD NOT, IN THE EVENT OF LITIGATION, SEEK TO ENFORCE THE FOREGOING WAIVER, (B) EACH PARTY UNDERSTANDS AND HAS CONSIDERED THE IMPLICATIONS OF THIS WAIVER, (C) EACH PARTY MAKES THIS WAIVER VOLUNTARILY, AND (D) EACH PARTY HAS BEEN INDUCED TO ENTER INTO THIS AGREEMENT BY, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THE MUTUAL WAIVERS AND CERTIFICATIONS IN THIS SECTION 12.
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Section 13. Ownership. Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed to give FSRL any rights to exercise or direct the exercise of voting power as owner of the Shares or to vest in CBAN any direct or indirect ownership or incidents of ownership of or with respect to any of the Shares. All rights, ownership and economic benefits of and relating to the Shares shall remain vested in and belong to the Shareholder, notwithstanding the provisions of this Agreement, and CBAN shall have no authority to manage, direct, superintend, restrict, regulate, govern or administer any of the policies or operations of CBAN or to exercise any power or authority to direct the Shareholder in voting any of the Shares, except as otherwise expressly provided herein.
Section 14. Assignment. Except as expressly contemplated hereby, neither this Agreement nor any of the rights, interests or obligations hereunder shall be assigned by any party hereto (whether by operation of Law, including by merger or consolidation, or otherwise) without the prior written consent of the other party. Subject to the foregoing sentence, this Agreement shall be binding upon, inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by the parties hereto and their respective successors and permitted assigns. Any purported assignment in violation of this Section 14 shall be null and void ab initio.
Section 15. Third-Party Beneficiaries. Nothing in this Agreement, express or implied, is intended to confer upon any Person other than the parties hereto or their respective successors any rights, remedies, obligations or liabilities under or by reason of this Agreement.
Section 16. Integration. Any singular term in this Agreement shall be deemed to include the plural, and any plural term the singular. Whenever the words “include,” “includes” or “including” are used in this Agreement, they shall be deemed followed by the words “without limitation,” unless the context otherwise requires. Unless the context otherwise requires, any reference herein to any Law shall refer to such Law as amended, modified or reenacted from time to time and any rules or regulations promulgated thereunder.
Section 17. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed and delivered by facsimile or by electronic data file and in one or more counterparts, all of which shall be considered one and the same agreement and shall become effective when one or more counterparts have been signed by each of the parties and delivered to the other party, it being understood that all parties need not sign the same counterpart. Signatures delivered by facsimile or by electronic data file shall have the same effect as originals.
[Signature Page Follows]
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed and delivered this Agreement as of the date first written above.
| FIRST RELIANCE BANCSHARES, INC. | ||
| By: | ______________________________________ | |
| Rick Saunders | ||
| Chief Executive officer | ||
| SHAREHOLDER | ||
| __________________________________________ | ||
| Printed Name: ______________________________ | ||
| Number of Shares of CBAN Common Stock Subject | ||
| to this Agreement:__________________________ | ||
[Signature Page – CBAN Voting Agreement]
EXHIBIT C
BANK PLAN OF MERGER AND MERGER AGREEMENT
This PLAN OF MERGER AND MERGER AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”) is made and entered into as of June [●], 2026, by and between First Reliance Bank, a South Carolina state-chartered bank with its main office located at 1901 Main Street, Suite 195, Columbia, SC 29201, and Colony Bank, a Georgia state-chartered banking institution with its main office located at 302 South Main Street, Fitzgerald, Georgia 31750, to provide for the merger of First Reliance Bank with and into Colony Bank (the “Bank Merger”). First Reliance Bank and Colony Bank are referred to herein as the “Merging Banks”.
WHEREAS, Colony Bankcorp, Inc. (“CBAN”), which owns all of the outstanding shares of Colony Bank, and First Reliance Bancshares, Inc. (“FSRL”), which owns all of the outstanding shares of First Reliance Bank, have entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “Merger Agreement”) which, among other things, contemplates the merger of FSRL with and into CBAN, all subject to the terms and conditions of such Merger Agreement (the “Merger”);
WHEREAS, the Merger Agreement contemplates the merger First Reliance Bank with and into Colony Bank, with Colony Bank as the surviving bank (the “Surviving Bank”), conditioned upon and immediately following consummation of the Merger;
WHEREAS, the respective boards of directors of FSRL, First Reliance Bank, CBAN and Colony Bank have approved the Bank Merger, upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this Agreement, and have determined that the Bank Merger and the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement are in the best interests of their respective shareholders; and
WHEREAS, the Bank Merger has been approved by a majority of the board of directors of Colony Bank, by CBAN, as the sole shareholder of Colony Bank, by a majority of the board of directors of First Reliance Bank, and by FSRL, as the sole shareholder of First Reliance Bank, in each case in accordance with the provisions of 12 U.S.C. § 215, O.C.G.A. § 7-1-531 and Chapter 25 of the South Carolina Banking and Branching Efficiency Act.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and of the covenants contained herein, and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are acknowledged, the Merging Banks, intending to be legally bound, hereby make, adopt and approve this Agreement, and hereby prescribe the terms and conditions of the Bank Merger and the mode of effecting the Bank Merger as follows:
TERMS OF BANK MERGER
The Bank Merger.
As a result of the Bank Merger, (i) each share of common stock of First Reliance Bank, par value $0.01 per share, issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time (as defined below) shall cease to be outstanding and shall be cancelled and (ii) each share of capital stock of Colony Bank, par value $10.00 per share, issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time shall remain issued and outstanding and shall constitute the only shares of capital stock of the Surviving Bank issued and outstanding immediately after the Effective Time. For purposes of this Agreement, the Bank Merger shall become effective on the date and time the Articles of Merger (“Articles of Merger”) reflecting the Bank Merger shall become effective with the Secretary of State of the State of Georgia (the “Effective Time”). Any shareholder of First Reliance Bank voting against the Bank Merger shall have dissenters’ rights of appraisal in accordance with applicable law.
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At the Effective Time, the Surviving Bank shall be considered the same business and corporate entity as each of the Merging Banks and thereupon and thereafter all the property, rights, privileges, powers and franchises of each of the Merging Banks shall vest in the Surviving Bank and the Surviving Bank shall be subject to and be deemed to have assumed all of the debts, liabilities, obligations and duties of each of the Merging Banks and shall have succeeded to all of each of their relationships, fiduciary or otherwise, as fully and to the same extent as if such property, rights, privileges, powers, franchises, debts, liabilities, obligations, duties and relationships had been originally acquired, incurred or entered into by the Surviving Bank. In addition, any reference to either of the Merging Banks in any contract, will or document, whether executed or taking effect before or after the Effective Time, shall be considered a reference to the Surviving Bank if not inconsistent with the other provisions of the contract, will or document; and any pending action or other judicial proceeding to which either of the Merging Banks is a party shall not be deemed to have abated or to have been discontinued by reason of the Bank Merger, but may be prosecuted to final judgment, order or decree in the same manner as if the Bank Merger had not been made or the Surviving Bank may be substituted as a party to such action or proceeding, and any judgment, order or decree may be rendered for or against it that might have been rendered for or against either of the Merging Banks if the Bank Merger had not occurred.
Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement and the Merger Agreement, each of the Merging Banks agrees to use commercially reasonable efforts in good faith to take, or cause to be taken, all actions, and to do, or cause to be done, all things necessary, proper or advisable under applicable law to permit consummation of the Bank Merger and the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and to reasonably cooperate with the other Merging Bank to that end.
Name of Surviving Bank and Principal Office. The name of the Surviving Bank shall be “Colony Bank.” The principal office of Colony Bank shall continue to be 302 South Main Street, Fitzgerald, Georgia 31750 after the Effective Time. The branch offices of Colony Bank and First Reliance Bank will be operated as branch offices of the Surviving Bank immediately following the Effective Time.
Articles of Incorporation. On and after the Effective Time, the Articles of Incorporation of Colony Bank shall be the Articles of Incorporation of the Surviving Bank until amended in accordance with applicable law.
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Bylaws. On and after the Effective Time, the Bylaws of Colony Bank shall be the Bylaws of the Surviving Bank until amended in accordance with applicable law.
Directors and Officers. On and after the Effective Time, until changed in accordance with the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws of the Surviving Bank, (i) the directors of the Surviving Bank shall be the directors of Colony Bank immediately prior to the Effective Time, together with such individuals as may be appointed to the Board of Directors of the Surviving Bank in accordance with the Merger Agreement and named in the Articles of Merger related to the Bank Merger, and (ii) the officers of the Surviving Bank shall be the officers of Colony Bank immediately prior to the Effective Time, together with such individuals as shall be named by the Board of Directors of the Surviving Bank following the Effective Time. The directors and officers of the Surviving Bank shall hold office in accordance with the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws of the Surviving Bank.
Capital of Surviving Bank. The amount of capital stock of the Surviving Bank authorized immediately following the Effective Time shall continue to be 150,000 shares of common stock, par value $10.000 per share, of which 90,000 shares of common stock are issued and outstanding as of the date hereof.
Income Tax Treatment. Each party to this Agreement agrees to treat the Bank Merger for all income tax purposes as a reorganization qualifying under Section 368(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended and hereby adopt this Agreement as a result of execution thereof as a plan of reorganization within the meaning of Treasury Regulations Section 1.368-2(g). None of the parties shall file a tax return or take any position with any taxing authority that is inconsistent with the tax treatment described in the preceding sentence.
MISCELLANEOUS
Conditions Precedent. The respective obligations of each party pursuant to this Agreement shall be subject to (i) the closing of the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement; (ii) the approval of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the “FDIC”), (iii) the approval of the Georgia Department of Banking and Finance (the “GDBF”); and (iv) the approval by the shareholders of each of the Merging Banks. Additionally, no order, injunction or decree issued by any court or governmental authority of competent jurisdiction or other legal restraint or prohibition preventing the consummation of the Bank Merger shall be in effect, and no law, statute, rule, regulation, order, injunction or decree shall have been enacted, entered, promulgated or enforced that prohibits or makes illegal the consummation of the Bank Merger.
Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the United States and the laws of the State of Georgia, without regard to any applicable principles of conflicts of laws that would result in the application of the law of another jurisdiction.
Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed (by facsimile or otherwise) by any one or more of the parties in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all such counterparts shall together constitute one and the same instrument.
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Amendments. To the extent permitted by the FDIC, the GDBF and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, this Agreement may be amended by a subsequent writing signed by the parties hereto upon the approval of the board of directors of each of the parties hereto.
Successors. This Agreement shall be binding on the successors of First Reliance Bank and Colony Bank.
Further Assignments. If at any time CBAN or the Colony Bank shall consider or be advised that any further assignments, conveyances or assurances are necessary or desirable to vest, perfect or confirm in Colony Bank full title to any property or rights of First Reliance Bank or otherwise carry out the provisions hereof, the proper officers and directors of First Reliance Bank, as of immediately prior to the Effective Time, and thereafter the officers of Colony Bank acting on behalf of First Reliance Bank, shall execute and deliver, or shall cause to be executed and delivered, any and all proper assignments, conveyances and assurances and do all things necessary or desirable to carry out the provisions hereof.
[Signature page follows]
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, First Reliance Bank and Colony Bank have caused this Plan of Bank Merger and Merger Agreement to be executed by their duly authorized officers as of the date first set forth above.
| COLONY BANK | ||||||
| ATTEST: | ||||||
| By: | ||||||
| Name: | Name: | |||||
| Title: | Title: | |||||
| FIRST RELIANCE BANK | ||||||
| ATTEST: | ||||||
| By: | ||||||
| Name: | Name: | |||||
| Title: | Title: | |||||
[Signature Page – Bank Plan of Merger and Merger Agreement]
EXHIBIT D
DIRECTOR NON-COMPETITION AND NON-DISCLOSURE AGREEMENT
This Director Non-Competition and Non-Disclosure Agreement (the “Agreement”), is dated as of June [___], 2026, by and between the undersigned director of First Reliance Bancshares, Inc. (“Director”), and Colony Bankcorp, Inc., a Georgia corporation (“CBAN”). All capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the meanings assigned to them in the Merger Agreement (defined below).
RECITALS:
WHEREAS, concurrently with the execution of this Agreement, CBAN and First Reliance Bancshares, Inc., a South Carolina corporation (“FSRL”), are entering into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (as such agreement may be subsequently amended or modified, the “Merger Agreement”), pursuant to which (i) FSRL will merge with and into CBAN, with CBAN as the surviving entity, and (ii) First Reliance Bank, a South Carolina state-chartered bank and a direct wholly-owned subsidiary of FSRL, will merge with and into Colony Bank, a Georgia state-chartered bank and a direct wholly-owned subsidiary of CBAN, with Colony Bank as the surviving bank (collectively, the “Merger”);
WHEREAS, Director is a shareholder of FSRL and, as a result of the Merger and pursuant to the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement, Director is expected to receive significant consideration in exchange for the shares of FSRL Stock held by Director;
WHEREAS, as of and prior to the date hereof, Director serves and has served as a member of the Board of Directors of FSRL or First Reliance Bank, and, therefore, Director has knowledge of the Confidential Information and Trade Secrets (each as hereinafter defined);
WHEREAS, as a result of the Merger, CBAN will succeed to all of the Confidential Information and Trade Secrets, for which CBAN as of the Effective Time will have paid valuable consideration and desires reasonable protection; and
WHEREAS, it is a material prerequisite to the consummation of the Merger that each director of FSRL and First Reliance Bank, including Director, enter into this Agreement.
AGREEMENT:
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of these premises and the mutual covenants and undertakings herein contained, CBAN and Director, each intending to be legally bound, covenant and agree as follows:
Restrictive Covenants.
Director acknowledges that (i) CBAN has separately bargained for the restrictive covenants in this Agreement; and (ii) the types and periods of restrictions imposed by the covenants in this Agreement are fair and reasonable to Director and such restrictions will not prevent Director from earning a livelihood.
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Having acknowledged the foregoing, solely in the event that the Merger is consummated, Director covenants and agrees with CBAN as follows:
From and after the date hereof, Director shall maintain in strict confidence and shall not, directly or indirectly, disclose, use or permit the use of any Confidential Information or Trade Secrets for so long as such information remains Confidential Information or a Trade Secret, as applicable, for any purpose, except for any disclosure that is required by applicable Law. In the event that Director is required by Law to disclose any Confidential Information, Director will: (A) if and to the extent permitted by such Law, provide CBAN with prompt notice of such requirement prior to the disclosure so that CBAN may waive the requirements of this Agreement or seek an appropriate protective order at CBAN’s sole expense; however, Director will cooperate fully with CBAN in seeking such protective measures and (B) use commercially reasonable efforts to obtain assurances that any Confidential Information disclosed will be accorded confidential treatment. If, in the absence of a waiver or protective order, Director is nonetheless, in the opinion of his or her counsel, required to disclose Confidential Information, disclosure may be made only as to that portion of the Confidential Information that counsel advises Director is required to be disclosed, and Director shall use his or her reasonable best efforts to ensure that such disclosed Confidential Information is accorded confidential treatment.
Except as expressly provided on Schedule I to this Agreement, for a period beginning on the date hereof and ending two (2) years after the Effective Time (the “Restricted Period”), Director will not (except on behalf of or with the prior written consent of CBAN), on Director’s own behalf or in the service or on behalf of others, solicit or attempt to solicit any customer of CBAN, Colony Bank, FSRL or First Reliance Bank (each a “Protected Party”), including actively sought prospective customers of First Reliance Bank as of the Effective Time, for the purpose of providing products or services that are Competitive (as hereinafter defined) with those offered or provided by any Protected Party. This restriction shall apply regardless of whether the customer relationship was established prior to or after the Effective Time.
Except as expressly provided on Schedule I to this Agreement, during the Restricted Period, Director will not (except on behalf of or with the prior written consent of CBAN), either directly or indirectly, on Director’s own behalf or in the service or on behalf of others, act as a director, manager, officer or employee of any business which offers products or services that are Competitive and which has an office located within the Restricted Territory (as hereinafter defined).
During the Restricted Period, Director will not, on Director’s own behalf or in the service or on behalf of others, solicit or recruit or attempt to solicit or recruit, directly or by assisting others, any employee of any Protected Party, whether or not such employee is a full-time employee or a temporary employee of such Protected Party, whether or not such employment is pursuant to a written agreement and whether or not such employment is for a determined period or is at will, to cease working for such Protected Party; provided that the foregoing will not prevent the placement of any general solicitation for employment not specifically directed towards employees of any Protected Party or hiring any such person as a result thereof.
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For purposes of this Section 1, the following terms shall be defined as set forth below:
“Competitive,” with respect to particular products or services, means products or services that are the same as or similar to the products or services of any Protected Party.
“Confidential Information” means data and information:
relating to the business of FSRL and its Subsidiaries, including First Reliance Bank, regardless of whether the data or information constitutes a Trade Secret;
disclosed to Director or of which Director became aware as a consequence of Director’s relationship with FSRL and/or First Reliance Bank;
having value to FSRL and/or First Reliance Bank and, as a result of the consummation of the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement, CBAN and/or Colony Bank; and
not generally known to competitors of FSRL or CBAN (including competitors to First Reliance Bank or Colony Bank).
Confidential Information shall include Trade Secrets, methods of operation, names of customers, price lists, financial information and projections, personnel data and similar information; provided, however, that the terms “Confidential Information” and “Trade Secrets” shall not mean data or information that (x) has been disclosed to the public, except where such public disclosure has been made by Director without authorization from FSRL or CBAN, (y) has been independently developed and disclosed by others, or (z) has otherwise entered the public domain through lawful means.
“Restricted Territory” means each county in South Carolina where First Reliance Bank operates a banking office at the Effective Time and each county contiguous to each of such counties.
“Trade Secret” means information, without regard to form, including technical or nontechnical data, a formula, a pattern, a compilation, a program, a device, a method, a technique, a drawing, a process, financial data, financial plans, product plans or a list of actual or potential customers or suppliers, that is not commonly known by or available to the public and which information:
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derives economic value, actual or potential, from not being generally known to, and not being readily ascertainable by proper means by, other persons who can obtain economic value from its disclosure or use; and
is the subject of efforts that are reasonable under the circumstances to maintain its secrecy.
Director acknowledges that irreparable loss and injury would result to CBAN upon the breach of any of the covenants contained in this Section 1 and that damages arising out of such breach would be difficult to ascertain. Director hereby agrees that, in addition to all other remedies provided at law or in equity, CBAN may petition and obtain from a court of law or equity, without the necessity of proving actual damages and without posting any bond or other security, both temporary and permanent injunctive relief to prevent a breach by Director of any covenant contained in this Section 1, and shall be entitled to an equitable accounting of all earnings, profits and other benefits arising out of any such breach. In the event that the provisions of this Section 1 should ever be determined to exceed the time, geographic or other limitations permitted by applicable Law, then such provisions shall be modified so as to be enforceable to the maximum extent permitted by Law. If such provision(s) cannot be modified to be enforceable, the provision(s) shall be severed from this Agreement to the extent unenforceable. The remaining provisions and any partially enforceable provisions shall remain in full force and effect.
Term and Termination. This Agreement may be terminated at any time by the written consent of the parties hereto, and this Agreement shall be automatically terminated upon the earlier of (a) termination of the Merger Agreement prior to the consummation of the Merger or; (ii) two (2) years following the Effective Time. For the avoidance of doubt, the provisions of Section 1 shall only become operative upon the consummation of the Merger but, in such event, shall survive the consummation of the Merger until the earlier of (a) two (2) years after the Effective Time or (b) upon a Change in Control of CBAN. Upon termination of this Agreement, no party shall have any further obligations or liabilities hereunder, except that termination of this Agreement will not relieve a breaching party from liability for any breach of any provision of this Agreement occurring prior to the termination of this Agreement.
Notices. All notices, requests and other communications hereunder to a party shall be in writing and shall be deemed properly given if delivered (a) personally, (b) by registered or certified mail (return receipt requested), with adequate postage prepaid thereon, (c) by properly addressed electronic mail delivery (with confirmation of delivery receipt) or (d) by reputable courier service to such party at its address set forth below, or at such other address or addresses as such party may specify from time to time by notice in like manner to the parties hereto. All notices shall be deemed effective upon delivery.
| If to CBAN: | Colony Bankcorp, Inc. | |
| 115 South Grant Street | ||
| Fitzgerald, GA 31750 | ||
| Attn: T. Heath Fountain, Chief Executive Officer | ||
| E-mail: heath.fountain@colonybank.com |
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| If to Director: |
The address of Director’s principal residence as it appears in FSRL’s records as of the date hereof, as subsequently modified by Director’s provision of notice regarding the same to CBAN. | |
Governing Law; Jurisdiction. This Agreement shall be governed by, and interpreted and enforced in accordance with, the internal, substantive laws of the State of Georgia, without regard for conflict of law provisions. Any civil action, counterclaim, proceeding or litigation arising out of or relating to this Agreement shall be brought in the courts of record of the State of Georgia in Ben Hill County or the United States District Court, Middle District of Georgia. Each party consents to the jurisdiction of such Georgia court in any such civil action, counterclaim, proceeding or litigation and waives any objection to the laying of venue of any such civil action, counterclaim, proceeding or litigation in such Georgia court. Service of any court paper may be effected on such party by mail, as provided in this letter, or in such other manner as may be provided under applicable Laws.
Modification and Waiver. No provision of this Agreement may be modified, waived or discharged unless such waiver, modification or discharge is agreed to in writing signed by Director and CBAN. No waiver by either party hereto at any time of any breach by the other party hereto of, or compliance with, any condition or provision of this Agreement to be performed by such other party shall be deemed a waiver of dissimilar provisions or conditions at the same or any prior subsequent time.
Severability. In the event that any one or more provisions of this Agreement shall for any reason be held invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect, by any court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity, illegality or unenforceability shall not affect any other provisions of this Agreement and the parties shall use their commercially reasonable efforts to substitute a valid, legal and enforceable provision which, insofar as practical, implements the purposes and intents of this Agreement.
Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed and delivered by facsimile or by electronic data file and in one or more counterparts, all of which shall be considered one and the same agreement and shall become effective when one or more counterparts have been signed by each of the parties and delivered to the other party, it being understood that all parties need not sign the same counterpart. Signatures delivered by facsimile or by electronic data file shall have the same effect as originals.
Entire Agreement. This Agreement represents the entire understanding of the parties hereto with reference to the transactions contemplated hereby, and this Agreement supersedes any and all other oral or written agreements heretofore made.
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Construction; Interpretation. Whenever the singular number is used in this Agreement and when required by the context, the same shall include the plural and vice versa, and the masculine gender shall include the feminine and neuter genders and vice versa. Whenever the words “include,” “includes” or “including” are used in this Agreement, they shall be deemed to be followed by the words “without limitation.” The headings in this Agreement are for convenience only and are in no way intended to describe, interpret, define or limit the scope, extent or intent of this Agreement or any of its provisions.
[SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS]
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed and delivered this Agreement as of the date first written above.
| COLONY BANKCORP, INC. | ||
| By: | ____________________________________ | |
| T. Heath Fountain | ||
| Chief Executive Officer | ||
| DIRECTOR | ||
| ________________________________________ | ||
| Printed Name: ____________________________ | ||
Signature Page – Director Non-Competition and Non-Disclosure Agreement
Schedule I
For avoidance of doubt, the parties acknowledge and agree that the restrictions set forth in Sections 1(b)(ii) and (iii) shall not apply to any of the following activities of Director:
| 1. | The provision of legal services by Director to any Person. |
| 2. | The provision of private equity/venture capital financing by Director to any Person. |
| 3. | The provision of accounting services by Director to any Person. |
| 4. | The ownership of 5% or less of any class of securities of any Person. |
| 5. | Obtaining banking-related services or products for entities owned or controlled by the Director. |
EXHIBIT E
CLAIMS LETTER
June [24], 2026
Colony Bankcorp, Inc.
115 South Grant Street
Fitzgerald, GA 31750
Ladies and Gentlemen:
This letter is delivered pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of June [24], 2026 (the “Merger Agreement”), by and between Colony Bankcorp, Inc., a Georgia corporation (“CBAN”), and First Reliance Bancshares, Inc., a South Carolina corporation (“FSRL”).
Concerning any claims which the undersigned may have against FSRL or any of its subsidiaries, including First Reliance Bank (each, a “FSRL Entity”), in his or her capacity as an officer, director or employee of any FSRL Entity, and in consideration of the promises and the mutual covenants contained herein and in the Merger Agreement and the mutual benefits to be derived hereunder and thereunder, and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are acknowledged, the undersigned, intending to be legally bound, hereby agrees as follows:
Definitions. Unless otherwise defined in this letter, capitalized terms used in this letter have the meanings given to them in the Merger Agreement.
Release of Certain Claims.
The undersigned hereby releases and forever discharges, effective upon the consummation of the Merger pursuant to the Merger Agreement, each FSRL Entity, and each of their respective directors and officers (in their capacities as such), and their respective successors and assigns, and each of them (hereinafter, individually and collectively, the “Released Parties”) of and from any and all liabilities, claims, demands, debts, accounts, covenants, agreements, obligations, costs, expenses, actions or causes of action of every nature, character or description (collectively, “Claims”), which the undersigned, solely in his or her capacity as an officer, director or employee of any FSRL Entity has or claims to have, or previously had or claimed to have, in each case as of the Effective Time, against any of the Released Parties, whether or not in law, equity or otherwise, based in whole or in part on any facts, conduct, activities, transactions, events or occurrences known or unknown, matured or unmatured, contingent or otherwise (individually a “Released Claim,” and collectively, the “Released Claims”), except for (i) compensation for services that have accrued but have not yet been paid in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice, including without limitation any accrued but unpaid salary, wages, bonuses (whether annual, signing, retention, or transaction-related), deferred compensation, retirement benefits, 401(k) or other retirement plan contributions or matching, pension benefits, health or welfare benefits, paid time off, or expense reimbursements which have been disclosed in writing to CBAN on or prior to the date of the Merger Agreement, or other contract rights relating to severance, employment, stock options and restricted stock grants which have been disclosed in writing to CBAN on or prior to the date of the Merger Agreement, and (ii) the items listed in Section 2(b) below.
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For avoidance of doubt, the parties acknowledge and agree that the Released Claims do not include any of the following:
any Claims that the undersigned may have in any capacity other than as an officer, director or employee of any FSRL Entity, including, but not limited to, (A) Claims as a borrower under written loan commitments and agreements between the undersigned and First Reliance Bank, (B) Claims as a depositor under any deposit account with First Reliance Bank, (C) Claims as the holder of any Certificate of Deposit issued by First Reliance Bank, (D) Claims on account of any services rendered by the undersigned in a capacity other than as an officer, director or employee of any FSRL Entity, (E) Claims in his or her capacity as a shareholder of FSRL and (F) Claims as a holder of any check issued by any other depositor of First Reliance Bank;
the Claims excluded in Section 2(a)(i) above;
any Claims that the undersigned may have under the Merger Agreement; or
any right to indemnification that the undersigned may have under the articles of incorporation or bylaws of any FSRL Entity, under Georgia or South Carolina law or the Merger Agreement.
Forbearance. The undersigned shall forever refrain and forebear from commencing, instituting or prosecuting any lawsuit, action, claim or proceeding before or in any court, regulatory, governmental, arbitral or other authority to collect or enforce any Released Claims which are released and discharged hereby.
Miscellaneous.
This letter shall be governed by, and interpreted and enforced in accordance with, the internal, substantive laws of the State of Georgia, without regard for conflict of law provisions.
This letter contains the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the Released Claims released hereby, and the release of Claims contained in this letter supersedes all prior agreements, arrangements or understandings (written or otherwise) with respect to such Released Claims, and no representation or warranty, oral or written, express or implied, has been made by or relied upon by any party hereto, except as expressly contained herein or in the Merger Agreement.
This letter shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the undersigned and the Released Parties and their respective heirs, legal representatives, successors and assigns.
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This letter may not be modified, amended or rescinded except by the written agreement of the undersigned and the Released Parties, it being the express understanding of the undersigned and the Released Parties that no term hereof may be waived by the action, inaction or course of delaying by or between the undersigned or the Released Parties, except in strict accordance with this paragraph, and further that the waiver of any breach of the terms of this letter shall not constitute or be construed as the waiver of any other breach of the terms hereof.
The undersigned represents, warrants and covenants that the undersigned is fully aware of the undersigned’s rights to discuss any and all aspects of this matter with any attorney chosen by him or her, and that the undersigned has carefully read and fully understands all the provisions of this letter, and that the undersigned is voluntarily entering into this letter.
This letter shall become effective upon the consummation of the Merger, and its operation to extinguish all of the Released Claims released hereby is not dependent on or affected by the performance or non-performance of any future act by the undersigned or the Released Parties. If the Merger Agreement is terminated for any reason, this letter shall be of no force or effect.
If any civil action, arbitration or other legal proceeding is brought for the enforcement of this letter, or because of an alleged dispute, breach, default or misrepresentation in connection with any provision of this letter, the successful or prevailing party or parties shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorneys’ fees, court costs, sales and use taxes and all reasonable expenses even if not taxable as court costs (including, without limitation, all such fees, taxes, costs and expenses incident to arbitration, appellate, bankruptcy and post-judgment proceedings), incurred in that proceeding, in addition to any other relief to which such party or parties may be entitled. Attorneys’ fees shall include, without limitation, paralegal fees, investigative fees, administrative costs, sales and use taxes and all other reasonable charges billed by the attorney to the prevailing party (including any fees and costs associated with collecting such amounts).
Each party acknowledges and agrees that any controversy which may arise under this letter is likely to involve complicated and difficult issues, and therefore each such party hereby irrevocably and unconditionally waives any right such party may have to a trial by jury in respect of any litigation directly or indirectly arising out of or relating to this letter, or the transactions contemplated by this letter. Each party certifies and acknowledges that (i) no representative, agent or attorney of any other party has represented, expressly or otherwise, that such other party would not, in the event of litigation, seek to enforce the foregoing waiver, (ii) each party understands and has considered the implications of this waiver, (iii) each party makes this waiver voluntarily and (iv) each party has been induced to enter into this letter by, among other things, the mutual waivers and certifications in this Section.
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Any civil action, counterclaim, proceeding or litigation arising out of or relating to this letter shall be brought in the courts of record of the State of Georgia in Ben Hill County or the United States District Court, Middle District of Georgia. Each party consents to the jurisdiction of such Georgia court in any such civil action, counterclaim, proceeding or litigation and waives any objection to the laying of venue of any such civil action, counterclaim, proceeding or litigation in such Georgia court. Service of any court paper may be effected on such party by mail, as provided in this letter, or in such other manner as may be provided under applicable laws, rules of procedure or local rules.
[SIGNATURE PAGES FOLLOW]
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| Sincerely, | |
| _______________________________ | |
| Signature of Director | |
| _______________________________ | |
| Printed Name of Director |
[Signature Page – Claims Letter]
On behalf of Colony Bankcorp, Inc., I hereby acknowledge receipt of this letter as of this [24th] day of [June] 2026.
| COLONY BANKCORP, INC. | ||
| By: | ___________________________ | |
| T. Heath Fountain | ||
| Chief Executive Officer | ||
[Signature Page – Claims Letter]