Western New England Bancorp
WNEB
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Western New England Bancorp - 10-Q quarterly report FY


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


FORM 10-Q
 
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2009

Commission file number 001-16767

Westfield Financial, Inc.
 (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Massachusetts
 
73-1627673
(State or other jurisdiction of
 
(I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)
 
Identification No.)

141 Elm Street, Westfield, Massachusetts 01086
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)

(413) 568-1911
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

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

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files.) Yes £  No£.

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.  See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act (Check one):

Large accelerated filer £
Accelerated filer x
 
   
Non-accelerated filer £
Smaller reporting company £
 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes £  Nox

At November 2, 2009, the registrant had 30,497,498 shares of common stock, $0.01 par value, issued and outstanding.

 
 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
  
Page
   
PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
Item 1.
Financial Statements of Westfield Financial, Inc. and Subsidiaries
 
   
 
Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited) – September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008
2
   
 
Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited) – nine months ended
3
 
September 30, 2009 and 2008
 
   
 
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity and Comprehensive
 
 
Income (Unaudited) – Nine Months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008
4
   
 
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) – Nine Months ended
 
 
September 30, 2009 and 2008
5
   
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)
6
   
Item 2.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
 
 
Results of Operations
23
   
Item 3.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
35
   
Item 4.
Controls and Procedures
36
   
PART II – OTHER INFORMATION
   
Item 1.
Legal Proceedings
37
   
Item 1A.
Risk Factors
37
   
Item 2.
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
37
   
Item 3.
Defaults upon Senior Securities
38
   
Item 4.
Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
38
   
Item 5.
Other Information
38
   
Item 6.
Exhibits
38
   
Signatures
39
  
Exhibits
 

 
 

 

FORWARD – LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contains “forward-looking statements.”  These forward-looking statements are made in good faith pursuant to the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  The words “may,” “could,” “should,” “would,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements.  These forward-looking statements may be subject to significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, including, but not limited to, changes in the real estate market or local economy, changes in interest rates, changes in laws and regulations to which we are subject, and competition in our primary market area.

Although we believe that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, actual results may differ materially from the results discussed in these forward-looking statements.  You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof.  Westfield Financial undertakes no obligation to republish revised forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

 
1

 

PART I
ITEM 1: FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
WESTFIELD FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - UNAUDITED
(Dollars in thousands)

  
September 30,
  
December 31,
 
  
2009
  
2008
 
ASSETS
      
Cash and due from banks
 $12,313  $11,525 
Federal funds sold
  11,217   42,338 
Interest-bearing deposits and other short-term investments
  1,075   2,670 
Cash and cash equivalents
  24,605   56,533 
         
SECURITIES:
        
Available for sale - at fair value
  19,759   24,396 
         
Held to Maturity - at amortized cost (fair value of $73,297 at September 30, 2009, and $82,491 at December 31, 2008)
  69,272   79,303 
         
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES:
        
Available for sale - at fair value
  301,597   233,747 
         
Held to maturity - at amortized cost (fair value $243,121 at September 30, 2009, and $168,716 at December 31, 2008)
  237,580   168,332 
         
FEDERAL HOME LOAN BANK OF BOSTON AND OTHER
        
RESTRICTED STOCK - AT COST
  10,003   8,456 
         
LOANS - Net of allowance for loan losses of $7,857 at September 30, 2009, and $8,796 at December 31, 2008
  466,808   472,135 
         
PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT, Net
  12,414   12,066 
         
ACCRUED INTEREST RECEIVABLE
  5,195   5,261 
         
BANK-OWNED LIFE INSURANCE
  37,184   36,100 
         
DEFERRED TAX ASSET, Net
  6,859   10,521 
         
DUE FROM BROKER FOR SECURITIES SOLD
  66,532   - 
         
OTHER ASSETS
  3,829   2,206 
TOTAL ASSETS
 $1,261,637  $1,109,056 
         
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
        
LIABILITIES:
        
DEPOSITS:
        
Noninterest-bearing
 $81,070  $50,860 
Interest-bearing
  573,120   537,169 
Total deposits
  654,190   588,029 
         
SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS
  55,843   49,824 
         
LONG-TERM DEBT
  218,813   173,300 
         
DUE TO BROKER FOR SECURITIES PURCHASED
  66,123   27,603 
         
OTHER LIABILITIES
  9,491   10,381 
TOTAL LIABILITIES
  1,004,460   849,137 
         
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:
        
Preferred stock – $0.01 par value 5,000,000 shares authorized.  None outstanding at September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008.
  -   - 
Common stock - $0.01 par value, 75,000,000 shares authorized, 30,608,713 shares issued and outstanding at September 30, 2009;  31,307,881 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2008
  306   313 
Additional paid-in capital
  199,709   204,866 
Unearned compensation – ESOP
  (10,453)  (10,913)
Unearned compensation - Equity Incentive Plan
  (3,469)  (4,337)
Retained earnings
  73,220   78,898 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
  (2,136)  (8,908)
Total stockholders' equity
  257,177   259,919 
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
 $1,261,637  $1,109,056 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.
 
 
2

 
 
WESTFIELD FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME – UNAUDITED
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
 
  
Three Months
  
Nine Months
 
  
Ended September 30,
  
Ended September 30,
 
  
2009
  
2008
  
2009
  
2008
 
INTEREST AND DIVIDEND INCOME:
            
Debt securities, taxable
 $6,370  $5,952  $18,666  $18,539 
Residential and commercial real estate loans
  4,629   4,711   13,828   13,952 
Commercial and industrial loans
  1,809   2,133   5,390   6,057 
Debt securities, tax-exempt
  367   351   1,102   1,030 
Consumer loans
  65   78   203   247 
Equity securities
  56   121   176   452 
Federal funds sold and other short-term investments
  2   158   11   544 
Total interest and dividend income
  13,298   13,504   39,376   40,821 
INTEREST EXPENSE:
                
Deposits
  3,221   3,551   9,785   11,686 
Short-term borrowings
  78   204   271   768 
Long-term debt
  1,757   1,650   5,251   4,606 
Total interest expense
  5,056   5,405   15,307   17,060 
Net interest and dividend income
  8,242   8,099   24,069   23,761 
PROVISION FOR LOAN LOSSES
  620   275   2,360   690 
Net interest and dividend income after provision for loan losses
  7,622   7,824   21,709   23,071 
NONINTEREST INCOME (LOSS):
                
Total other-than-temporary impairment losses on securities
  (1,343)  (651)  (1,343)  (961)
Portion of other-than-temporary impairment losses recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss
  1,157   -   1,157   - 
Net other-than-temporary impairment losses recognized in income
  (186)  (651)  (186)  (961)
Service charges and fees
  580   605   2,023   1,768 
Income from bank-owned life insurance
  371   359   1,084   1,002 
(Loss) gain on sales of securities, net
  (774)  486   (565)  805 
Loss on disposal of premises and equipment, net
  -   -   (8)  - 
Loss on prepayment of borrowings
  -   -   (142)  - 
Loss on sale of other real estate owned
  (110)  -   (110)    
Total noninterest income (loss)
  (119)  799   2,096   2,614 
NONINTEREST EXPENSE:
                
Salaries and employees benefits
  3,817   3,662   11,800   10,759 
Occupancy
  632   593   1,948   1,819 
Professional fees
  290   356   1,210   1,203 
Computer operations
  442   422   1,299   1,276 
Stationery, supplies and postage
  119   111   308   360 
FDIC insurance assessment
  102   24   950   65 
Other
  662   615   1,966   1,818 
Total noninterest expense
  6,064   5,783   19,481   17,300 
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES
  1,439   2,840   4,324   8,385 
INCOME TAXES
  197   793   804   2,357 
NET INCOME
 $1,242  $2,047  $3,520  $6,028 
                 
EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE:
                
Basic earnings per share
 $0.04  $0.07  $0.12  $0.20 
Weighted average shares outstanding (1)
  29,330,638   29,719,961   29,522,327   29,877,284 
Diluted earnings per share
 $0.04  $0.07  $0.12  $0.20 
Weighted average diluted shares outstanding (1)
  29,591,706   30,019,924   29,791,421   30,246,927 
 
(1)
Weighted-average shares outstanding for 2008 have been adjusted retrospectively for restricted shares that were determined to be “participating” with Financial Accounting Standards Board ASC 260, “Determining Whether Instruments Granted in Share-Based Payment Transactions are Participating Securities.”
 
See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.
 
 
3

 

WESTFIELD FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME- UNAUDITED
NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2009 AND 2008
(Dollars in thousands, except share data)

  
Common Stock
                   
  
Shares
  
Par
Value
  
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
  
Unearned
Compensation
- ESOP
  
Unearned
Compensation
- Equity
Incentive Plan
  
Retained
Earnings
  
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss
  
Total
 
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2008
  31,307,881  $313  $204,866  $(10,913) $(4,337) $78,898  $(8,908) $259,919 
Comprehensive income:
                                
Net income
  -   -   -   -   -   3,520   -   3,520 
Noncredit portion of other-than-temporary impairment losses on available-for-sale securities, net of reclassification and tax effects
  -   -   -   -   -   -   (764)  (764)
Net unrealized gains on securities available for sale arising during the period, net reclassification adjustment and tax effects
  -   -   -   -   -   -   7,474   7.474 
Change in pension gains or losses and transition assets, net of tax
  -   -   -   -   -   -   62   62 
Total comprehensive income
                              10.292 
Common stock held by ESOP committed to be released (91,493 shares)
  -   -   183   460   -   -   -   643 
Share-based compensation - stock options
  -   -   703   -   -   -   -   703 
Share-based compensation - equity incentive plan
  -   -   -   -   1,002   -   -   1.002 
Excess tax benefits from equity incentive plan
  -   -   43   -   -   -   -   43 
Common stock repurchased
  (758,889)  (8)  (6,897)  -   -   -   -   (6.905)
Issuance of common stock in connection with stock option exercises
  59,721   1   574   -   -   (313)  -   262 
Issuance of common stock in connection with equity incentive plan
  -   -   138   -   (138)  -   -   - 
Forfeiture of common stock in connection with equity incentive plan
  -   -   (4)  -   4   -   -   - 
Excess tax benefits in connection with stock option exercises
  -   -   103   -   -   -   -   103 
Cash dividends declared ($0.30 per share)
  -   -   -   -   -   (8,885)  -   (8.885)
BALANCE AT SEPTEMBER 30, 2009
  30,608,713  $306  $199,709  $(10,453) $(3,469) $73,220  $(2,136) $257,177 
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2007
  31,933,549  $319  $209,497  $(11,542) $(5,493) $92,702  $1,049  $286,532 
Comprehensive income:
                                
Net income
  -   -   -   -   -   6,028   -   6,028 
Net unrealized losses on securities available for sale arising during the period, net reclassification adjustment and tax effects
  -   -   -   -   -   -   (4,652)  (4,652)
Total comprehensive income
                              1,376 
Common stock held by ESOP committed to be released (93,947 shares)
  -   -   216   472   -   -   -   688 
Share-based compensation - stock options
  -   -   521   -   -   -   -   521 
Share-based compensation - equity incentive plan
  -   -   -   -   752   -   -   752 
Common stock repurchased
  (983,471)  (10)  (9,769)  -   -   -   -   (9,779)
Issuance of common stock in connection with stock option exercises
  433,110   4   4,447   -   -   (2,550)  -   1,901 
Excess tax benefits in connection with stock option exercises
  -   -   345   -   -   -   -   345 
Cash dividends declared ($0.30 per share)
  -   -   -   -   -   (9,025)  -   (9,025)
BALANCE AT SEPTEMBER 30, 2008
  31,383,188  $313  $205,257  $(11,070) $(4,741) $87,155  $(3,603) $273,311 
See the accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 
4

 

WESTFIELD FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - UNAUDITED
(Dollars in thousands)
  
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
  
2009
  
2008
 
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
      
Net income
 $3,520  $6,028 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
        
Provision for loan losses
  2,360   690 
Depreciation and amortization of premises and equipment
  929   889 
Net amortization of premiums and discounts on securities, mortgage-backed securities and mortgage loans
  1,098   140 
Share-based compensation expense
  1,705   1,273 
Amortization of ESOP expense
  643   688 
Excess tax benefits from equity incentive plan
  (43)  - 
Excess tax benefits in connection with stock option exercises
  (103)  (345)
Net losses (gains) on sales of securities
  565   (805)
Other-than-temporary impairment losses of securities
  186   961 
Write-downs of other real estate owned
  17   - 
Loss on sale of other real estate owned
  110   - 
Loss on disposal of premises and equipment, net
  8   - 
Loss on prepayment of borrowings
  142   - 
Deferred income tax benefit
  (188)  (135)
Income from bank-owned life insurance
  (1.084)  (1,002)
Changes in assets and liabilities:
        
Accrued interest receivable
  (107)  643 
Other assets
  (1,623)  (1,006)
Other liabilities
  (650)  (1,152)
Net cash provided by operating activities
  7,485   6,867 
         
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
        
Securities, held to maturity:
        
Purchases
  (10,112)  (1,094)
Proceeds from calls, maturities, and principal collections
  20,090   23,000 
Securities, available for sale:
        
Purchases
  (433)  (17,291)
Proceeds from sales
  5,107   15,242 
Proceeds from calls, maturities, and principal collections
  154   14,992 
Mortgage-backed securities, held to maturity:
        
Purchases
  (113,622)  (23,726)
Principal collections
  43,845   28,091 
Mortgage-backed securities, available for sale:
        
Purchases
  (174,202)  (80,114)
Proceeds from sales
  39,148   43,802 
Principal collections
  48,479   35,278 
Purchase of residential mortgages
  (14,521)  (1,366)
Net other decrease (increase) in loans
  17,169   (41,233)
Purchase of Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston stock
  (1,547)  (936)
Proceeds from sale of other real estate owned
  148   - 
Purchases of premises and equipment
  (1,285)  (335)
Purchase of bank-owned life insurance
  -   (2,000)
Net cash used in investing activities
  (141,582)  (7,457)
         
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
        
Net increase (decrease) in deposits
  66,161   (16,638)
Net change in short-term borrowings
  6,019   1,425 
Repayment of long-term debt
  (45,142)  (15,000)
Proceeds from long-term debt
  90,513   78,500 
Cash dividends paid
  (8,885)  (9,025)
Common stock repurchased
  (6,905)  (9,779)
Issuance of common stock in connection with stock option exercises
  262   1,901 
Excess tax benefits in connection with equity incentive plan
  43   - 
Excess tax benefits in connection with stock option exercises
  103   345 
Net cash provided by financing activities
  102,169   31,729 
NET CHANGE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS:
  (31,928)  31,139 
Beginning of period
  56,533   37,623 
End of period
 $24,605  $68,762 
Supplemental cash flow information:
        
Due to broker
 $66,123  $- 
Due from broker
  66,532   - 
Transfer of loans to other real estate owned
  275   - 
Interest paid
  15,287   17,077 
Taxes paid
  1,761   2,880 

See the accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 
5

 

WESTFIELD FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

1.  SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Nature of Operations –Westfield Financial, Inc. (the “Company” or “Westfield Financial”) is the bank holding company for Westfield Bank, a federally-chartered stock savings bank.

Westfield Bank’s deposits are insured to the limits specified by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”).  Westfield Bank operates ten branches in Western Massachusetts.  Westfield Bank’s primary source of revenue is earnings on loans to small and middle-market businesses and to residential property homeowners.

Elm Street Securities Corporation and WFD Securities Corporation, Massachusetts-chartered security corporations, were formed by Westfield Financial for the primary purpose of holding qualified securities.

Principles of Consolidation – The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Westfield Financial, Westfield Bank, Elm Street Securities Corporation, and WFD Securities Corporation.  All material intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Estimates – The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of income and expenses for each.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.  Estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant change in the near-term relate to the determination of the allowance for loan losses, other-than-temporary impairment of securities, and the valuation of deferred tax assets.

Basis of Presentation – In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring adjustments) necessary for a fair presentation of Westfield Financial’s financial condition as of September 30, 2009, and the results of operations, changes in stockholders’ equity and cash flows for the interim periods presented.  The results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009 are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations for the year ending December 31, 2009.  Certain information and disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP have been omitted pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

These unaudited consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2008.

Reclassifications- - Certain amounts in the prior period financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation.

 
6

 

2.  EARNINGS PER SHARE

Basic earnings per share represent income available to shareholders divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period.  Diluted earnings per share reflect additional common shares that would have been outstanding if dilutive potential shares had been issued, as well as any adjustment to income that would result from the assumed issuance.  Potential common shares that may be issued by Westfield Financial relate solely to outstanding stock awards and options and are determined using the treasury stock method.

Earnings per common share for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008 have been computed based on the following:
  
Three Months Ended
  
Nine Months Ended
 
  
September 30,
  
September 30,
 
  
2009
  
2008
  
2009
  
2008
 
  
(In thousands, except per share data)
 
             
Net income applicable to common stock
 $1,242  $2,047  $3,520  $6,028 
                 
Average number of common shares issued
  30,888   31,383   31,103   31,564 
Less: Average unallocated ESOP Shares
  (1,506)  (1,598)  (1,528)  (1,622)
Less: Average ungranted equity incentive plan shares
  (51)  (65)  (53)  (65)
                 
Average number of common shares outstanding used to calculate basic earnings per common share (1) 
  
29,331
   
29,720 
   
29,522 
   
29,877 
 
                 
Effect of dilutive stock options
  261   300   269   370 
                 
Average number of common shares outstanding used to calculate diluted earnings per common share
  29,592   30,020   29,791   30,247 
                 
Basic earnings per share
 $0.04  $0.07  $0.12  $0.20 
                 
Diluted earnings per share
 $0.04  $0.07  $0.12  $0.20 
 

(1)
Weighted-average shares outstanding for 2008 have been adjusted retrospectively for restricted shares that were     determined to be “participating” in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board ASC 260, “Determining Whether Instruments Granted in Share-Based Payment Transactions Are Participating Securities.”

Stock options that would have an antidilutive effect on diluted earnings per share are excluded from the calculation.  At September 30, 2009 and 2008, 1,538,357 and 1,501,857 shares were antidilutive, respectively.
 
 
7

 

3.  COMPREHENSIVE INCOME/LOSS

Accounting principles generally require that recognized revenue, expenses, gains and losses be included in net income.  Although certain changes in assets and liabilities are reported as a separate component of the equity section of the balance sheet, such items, along with net income are components of comprehensive income.

The components of other comprehensive income (loss) and related tax effects are as follows:

  
Nine Months Ended September 30
 
  
2009
  
2008
 
  
(In thousands)
 
Unrealized holding (losses) gains on available-for-sale securities
 $12,277  $(6,798)
Reclassification adjustment for losses (gains) realized in income
  565   (805)
Noncredit portion of other-than-temporary impairment losses on available-for-sale securities
  (1,157)  - 
Net realized gains (losses)
  11,685   (7,603)
Tax effect
  (4,211)  2,951 
Net of tax amount
  7,474   (4,652)
         
Gains and losses arising during the periods pertaining to defined benefit plan
  103   - 
Reclassification adjustment for transition asset recognized in net periodic benefit cost pertaining to defined benefit plan
  (9)  - 
Net adjustments pertaining to defined benefit plan
  94   - 
Tax Effect
  (32)  - 
Net-of-tax amount
  62   - 
         
Net accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income
 $7,536  $(4,652)

The components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) included in stockholders’ equity are as follows:

  
September 30,
  
December 31,
 
  
2009
  
2008
 
  
(In thousands)
 
Net unrealized gain (loss) on securities available-for-sale
 $772  $(10,913)
Tax effect
  (179)  4,032 
Net-of-tax amount
  593   (6,881)
         
Noncredit portion of other-than-temporary impairment losses on available-for-sale securities
  (1,157)  - 
Tax effect
  393   - 
Net of tax amount
  (764)  - 
         
Unrecognized deferred loss pertaining to defined benefit plan
  (3,035)  (3,138)
Unrecognized transition asset pertaining to defined benefit plan
  59   68 
Net components pertaining to defined benefit plan
  (2,976)  (3,070)
Tax Effect
  1,011   1,043 
Net-of-tax amount
  (1,965)  (2,027)
         
Net accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income
 $(2,136) $(8,908)

 
8

 

4.      SECURITIES

Securities are summarized as follows:
  
September 30, 2009
 
  
Amortized
Cost
  
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
  
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
  
Fair Value
 
  
(In thousands)
 
Held to maturity:
            
Government-sponsored enterprises
 $34,903  $2,013  $-  $36,916 
Municipal bonds
  34,369   2,012   -   36,381 
                 
Total held to maturity
  69,272   4,025   -   73,297 
                 
Available for sale:
                
Government-sponsored enterprises
  11,000   55   -   11,055 
Municipal bonds
  1,956   183   -   2,139 
Equity securities
  6,580   30   (45)  6,565 
                 
Total available for sale
  19,536   268   (45)  19,759 
                 
Total securities
 $88,808  $4,293  $(45) $93,056 

  
December 31, 2008
 
  
Amortized
Cost
  
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
  
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
  
Fair Value
 
  
(In thousands)
 
Held to maturity:
            
Government-sponsored enterprises
 $44,906  $2,900  $-  $47,806 
Municipal bonds
  34,397   467   (179)  34,685 
                 
Total held to maturity
  79,303   3,367   (179)  82,491 
                 
Available for sale:
                
Government-sponsored enterprises
  16,018   281   -   16,299 
Municipal bonds
  1,957   27   (14)  1,970 
Equity securities
  6,301   -   (174)  6,127 
                 
Total available for sale
  24,276   308   (188)  24,396 
                 
Total securities
 $103,579  $3,675  $(367) $106,887 
 
 
9

 

Information pertaining to securities with gross unrealized losses at September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, aggregated by investment category and length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous loss position, follows:

  
September 30, 2009
 
   
Less Than Twelve Months
  
Over Twelve Months
 
   
Gross
Unrealized
Losses 
  
Fair Value
  
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
  
Fair Value
 
  
(In thousands)
 
Available for sale:
            
    Equity securities
 $-  $-  $(45) $1,470 
                 
Total available for sale
  -   -   (45)  1,470 
                 
Total
 $-  $-  $(45) $1,470 

  
December 31, 2008
 
   
Less Than Twelve Months
  
Over Twelve Months
 
   
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
  
Fair Value
  
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
  
Fair Value
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Held to maturity:
            
    Municipal bonds
 $(155) $6,677  $(24) $1,585 
                 
Total held to maturity
  (155)  6,667   (24)  1,585 
                 
Available for sale:
                
    Municipal bonds
  (14)  1,093   -   - 
    Equity securities
  -   -   (174)  3,842 
                 
Total available for sale
  (14)  1,093   (174)  3,842 
                 
Total
 $(169) $7,770  $(198) $5,427 
 
 
10

 

At September 30, 2009, one equity security had a gross unrealized loss with aggregate depreciation of 3.0% from Westfield Financial’s cost basis existing for greater than twelve months and was principally related to fluctuations in interest rates.  This loss relates to a mutual fund which invests primarily in short-term debt instruments and adjustable rate mortgage-backed securities.  Because this loss was the result of fluctuations in interest rates, and Westfield Financial does not intend to sell the security and it is more likely than not that it will not be required to sell it prior to the recovery of its amortized cost basis the loss is deemed temporary.  At September 30, 2009, no securities had gross unrealized losses from Westfield Financial’s amortized cost basis existing for less than twelve months.

Westfield Financial recorded write-downs on preferred stock issued by Freddie Mac of $651,000 and $961,000 during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008, respectively.  Freddie Mac was placed into conservatorship by the United States Treasury in September 2008.  Westfield Financial’s book value remaining on preferred stock issued by Freddie Mac was $39,000 at September 30, 2009.  Westfield Financial recorded no write-downs on these securities during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009.

The amortized cost and fair value of debt securities at September 30, 2009, by maturity, are shown below.  Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because certain issuers have the right to call or repay obligations.

  
September 30, 2009
 
  
Amortized
Cost
  
Fair Value
 
  
(In thousands)
 
Held to maturity:
      
Due in one year or less
 $5,068  $5,083 
Due after one year through five years
  17,934   18,820 
Due after five years through ten years
  33,631   35,987 
Due after ten years
  12,639   13,407 
         
Total held to maturity
 $69,272  $73,297 
         
Available for sale:
        
Due after five years through ten years
 $1,391  $1,521 
Due after ten years
  11,565   11,673 
         
Total available for sale
 $12,956  $13,194 

Proceeds from the sale of securities available for sale amounted to $5.1 million and $15.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

Gross realized gains of $89,000 and $231,000 and gross realized losses of $2,000 and $12,000 were recorded on the sales of securities during the nine months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively.  No gains or losses were recorded on the sales of securities during the three months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008.  Westfield Financial recorded gross losses of $651,000 and $961,000 due to other-than-temporary impairment in value of securities during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008, respectively.  Westfield Financial recorded no impairment losses on debt securities during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009.

At September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, one security with a carrying value of $4.9 million was pledged as collateral to the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston to secure public deposits.
 
 
11

 

5.
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES
 
Mortgage-backed securities are summarized as follows:

  
September 30, 2009
 
   
Amortized
Cost
  
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
  
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
  
Fair Value
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Held to maturity:
            
    Fannie Mae
 $114,751  $3,297  $(35) $118,013 
    Freddie Mac
  77,545   2,800   (30)  80,315 
    Ginnie Mae
  6,903   52   -   6,955 
    Collateralized mortgage obligations
  38,381   71   (614)  37,838 
                 
Total held to maturity
  237,580   6,220   (679)  243,121 
                 
Available for sale:
                
    Fannie Mae
  155,609   1,928   (407)  157,130 
    Freddie Mac
  89,867   1,187   (544)  90,510 
    Ginnie Mae
  3,594   26   (5)  3,615 
    Collateralized mortgage obligations
  53,135   46   (2,839)  50,342 
                 
Total available for sale
  302,205   3,187   (3,795)  301,597 
                 
Total mortgage-backed securities
 $539,785  $9,407  $(4,474) $544,718 
 
 
12

 
 
  
December 31, 2008
 
  
Amortized
Cost
  
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
  
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
  
Estimated
Fair Value
 
  
(In thousands)
 
Held to maturity:
            
    Fannie Mae
 $89,910  $1,207  $(341) $105,304 
    Freddie Mac
  64,067   1,264   (225)  65,106 
    Ginnie Mae
  7,892   1   (340)  7,553 
    Collateralized mortgage obligations
  6,463   -   (1,182)  5,281 
                 
Total held to maturity
  168,332   2,472   (2,088)  168,716 
                 
Available for sale:
                
    Fannie Mae
  105,397   476   (569)  105,304 
    Freddie Mac
  56,529   642   (199)  56,972 
    Ginnie Mae
  40,401   181   (158)  40,424 
    Collateralized mortgage obligations
  42,453   -   (11,406)  31,047 
                 
Total available for sale
  244,780   1,299   (12,332)  233,747 
                 
Total mortgage-backed securities
 $413,112  $3,771  $(14,420) $402,463 
                 

Proceeds from the sale of mortgage-backed securities available for sale amounted to $39.1 million and $43.8 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

Gross realized gains of $1.4 million and $486,000 and gross realized losses of $2.2 million and $0 were recorded on sales of mortgage-backed securities during the three months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Gross realized gains of $1.6 million and $585,000 and gross realized losses of $2.2 million and $0 were recorded on sales of mortgage-backed securities during the nine months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively.  The loss of $2.2 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009 was primarily due to a loss of on the sale of a single collateralized mortgage obligation management opted to sell due to deterioration in its credit quality.  The carrying value of private-label collateralized mortgage obligations was $28.0 million and $37.5 million at September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively.

Westfield Financial recorded write-downs of $1.3 million due to other-than-temporary impairment on mortgage-backed securities during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009.  The write-down is related to a single private-label collateralized mortgage obligation in which $1.2 million of the other-than-temporary impairment loss was recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income and a net impairment loss of $186,000 was recognized in income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009.

 
13

 

Information pertaining to mortgage-backed securities with gross unrealized losses at September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008 aggregated by investment category and length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous loss position, follows:

  
September 30, 2009
 
  
Less Than Twelve Months
  
Over Twelve Months
 
  
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
  
Fair Value
  
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
  
Fair Value
 
  
(In thousands)
 
Held to maturity:
            
    Fannie Mae
 $(2) $929  $(33) $2,817 
    Freddie Mac
  (5)  1,704   (25)  1,377 
    Collateralized mortgage obligations
  (236)  17,900   (378)  3,319 
                 
Total held to maturity
  (243)  20,533   (436)  7,513 
                 
Available for sale:
                
    Fannie Mae
  (403)  60,000   (4)  1,231 
    Freddie Mac
  (541)  34,707   (3)  166 
    Ginnie Mae
  -   -   (5)  1,440 
    Collateralized mortgage obligations
  (306)  27,648   (2,533)  13,944 
                 
Total available for sale
  (1,250)  122,355   (2,545)  16,781 
                 
Total
 $(1,493) $142,888  $(2,981) $24,294 

  
December 31, 2008
 
  
Less Than Twelve Months
  
Over Twelve Months
 
  
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
  
Fair Value
  
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
  
Fair Value
 
  
(In thousands)
 
Held to maturity:
            
    Fannie Mae
 $(216) $14,402  $(125) $8,662 
    Freddie Mac
  (141)  13,742   (84)  2,667 
    Ginnie Mae
  (266)  5,482   (74)  1,867 
    Collateralized mortgage obligations
  (1,182)  5,282   -   - 
                 
Total held to maturity
  (1,805)  38,908   (283)  13,196 
                 
Available for sale:
                
    Fannie Mae
  (479)  42,746   (90)  11,416 
    Freddie Mac
  (147)  9,802   (52)  10,794 
    Ginnie Mae
  (147)  3,842   (11)  251 
    Collateralized mortgage obligations
  (6,953)  28,423   (4,453)  2,624 
                 
Total available for sale
  (7,726)  84,813   (4,606)  25,085 
                 
Total
 $(9,531) $123,721  $(4,889) $38,281 
 
 
14

 

At September 30, 2009, thirty-four mortgage-backed securities had gross unrealized losses with aggregate depreciation of 1.1% from Westfield Financial’s amortized cost basis existing for less than twelve months.  These losses relate to mortgage-backed securities, which were primarily issued by government-sponsored enterprises, and such losses are the result of an illiquid market.  As Westfield Financial does not intend to sell these securities and it is more likely than not that it will not be required to sell these securities prior to the recovery of its amortized cost basis less any credit losses, no declines are deemed to be other than temporary at September 30, 2009.

At September 30, 2009, twenty-nine mortgage-backed securities issued by government-sponsored enterprises had gross unrealized losses with aggregate depreciation of 1.0% from Westfield Financial’s amortized cost basis existing for greater than twelve months.  These losses relate to mortgage-backed securities and such losses are the result of an illiquid market.  As Westfield Financial does not intend to sell these securities and it is more likely than not that it will not be required to sell these securities prior to the recovery of its amortized cost basis less any credit losses, no declines are deemed to be other than temporary at September 30, 2009.

At September 30, 2009, seven collateralized mortgage obligations had gross unrealized losses of 14.4% from Westfield Financial’s amortized cost basis of temporarily impaired debt securities which existed for greater than twelve months.  The securities are privately issued collateralized mortgage obligations.  Management hired a third party experienced in analyzing private-label mortgage-backed securities to determine if credit losses existed for these securities.  In preparing the analysis, the third party determined the performance of the underlying assets in the securities by measuring the default rates for loans that are currently delinquent or in foreclosure, severity rates of loss for loans currently delinquent or in foreclosure and default rates for loans that are current.  As a result of this analysis, one collateralized mortgage obligation was deemed to have other than temporary impairment loss.  Westfield Financial recorded a write-down of $1.3 million due to other-than-temporary impairment on mortgage-backed securities during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009 related to that collateralized mortgage obligation. $1.2 million of the other-than-temporary impairment loss was recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income and a net impairment loss of $186,000 due to credit losses was recognized in income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009.

6.  SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION

Under the Westfield Financial, Inc. 2007 Recognition and Retention Plan and 2007 Stock Option Plan, Westfield Financial may grant up to 624,041 stock awards and 1,631,682 stock options to its directors, officers, and employees, respectively.

Stock award allocations are recorded as unearned compensation based on the market price at the date of grant.  Unearned compensation is amortized over the vesting period.

Westfield Financial may grant both incentive and non-statutory stock options.  The exercise price of each option equals the market price of Westfield Financial’s stock on the date of grant with a maximum term of ten years.

The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the grant date using the binomial option pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions:
 
  
Nine Months Ended
September 30, 2009
 
Expected dividend yield
  6.07
Expected life
 10years 
Expected volatility
  35.70
Risk-free interest rate
  2.59% 
 
All stock awards and stock options currently vest at 20% per year.  At September 30, 2009, 51,441 stock awards and 171,899 stock options were available for future grants.
 
 
15

 

Westfield Financial’s stock award and stock option plans activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008 is summarized below:

  
Unvested Stock Awards
Outstanding
  
Stock Options Outstanding
 
  
Shares
  
Weighted
Average
Grant
Date Fair
Value
  
Shares
  
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
 
             
Outstanding at December 31, 2008
  465,192  $10.04   2,276,223  $8.15 
Granted
  14,000   9.89   39,000   9.89 
Stock options exercised
  -   -   (59,721)  4.39 
Stock awards vested
  (15,206)  10.06   -   - 
Forfeited
  (400)  10.04   (2,500)  10.04 
Outstanding at September 30, 2009
  463,586   10.03   2,253,002   8.28 
                 
Outstanding at December 31, 2007
  582,966  $10.04   2,709,333  $8.15 
Stock options exercised
  -   -   (433,110)  4.39 
Stock awards vested
  (4,005)  10.11   -   - 
Outstanding at September 30, 2008
  578,961   10.04   2,276,223   8.87 

Westfield Financial recorded compensation cost related to the stock awards of $288,000 and $252,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively, and $1.0 million and $752,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

Westfield Financial recorded compensation costs relating to stock options of $197,000 and $703,000, with a related tax benefit of $54,000 and $188,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009, respectively.  Westfield Financial recorded compensation costs relating to stock options of $175,000 and $521,000, with a related tax benefit of $45,000 and $135,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008, respectively.

7.  SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS AND LONG-TERM DEBT

Westfield Bank utilizes short-term borrowings and long-term debt as an additional source of funds to finance its lending and investing activities and to provide liquidity for daily operations.  Short-term borrowings are made up of Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) advances with an original maturity of less than one year as well as customer repurchase agreements, which have an original maturity of one day.  Short-term borrowings issued by the FHLB were $36.0 million and $28.5 million at September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively.  Customer repurchase agreements were $19.8 million at September 30, 2009 and $21.3 million at December 31, 2008.  A customer repurchase agreement is an agreement by Westfield Bank to sell to and repurchase from the customer an interest in specific securities issued by or guaranteed by the United States Government.  This transaction settles immediately on a same day basis in immediately available funds.  Interest paid is commensurate with other products of equal interest and credit risk.  All of Westfield Bank’s customer repurchase agreements at September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008 were held by commercial customers.

Long-term debt consists of FHLB advances with an original maturity of one year or more as well as securities sold under repurchase agreements.  At September 30, 2009, Westfield Bank had $132.5 million in long-term debt with the FHLB and $81.3 million in securities sold under repurchase agreements with an approved broker-dealer.  This compares to $115.0 million in long-term debt with FHLB advances and $58.3 million in securities sold under repurchase agreements with an approval broker-dealer at December 31, 2008.  Customer repurchase agreements were $5.0 million at September 30, 2009 and none at December 31, 2008.  The securities sold under agreements to repurchase are callable at the issuer’s option beginning in the year 2010.

 
16

 

8.  PENSION AND POSTRETIREMENT LIFE INSURANCE BENEFITS

The following table provides information regarding net pension benefit costs for the periods shown:
 
  
Three Months Ended
September 30,
  
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
  
2009
  
2008
  
2009
  
2008
 
  
(In thousands)
 
Service cost
 $216  $175  $647  $525 
Interest cost
  183   162   548   486 
Expected return on assets
  (169)  (190)  (506)  (570)
Transition obligation
  (3)  (3)  (9)  (9)
Actuarial loss (gain)
  34   (10)  102   (29)
Net periodic pension cost
 $261  $134  $782  $403 

Westfield Bank maintains a pension plan for its eligible employees.  Westfield Financial plans to contribute to the pension plan the amount required to meet the minimum funding standards under Section 412 of the Internal Revenue Code.  Additional contributions will be made as deemed appropriate by management in conjunction with the pension plan’s actuaries.  Westfield Financial expects to contribute $466,000 to its pension plan in 2009.

9.  FAIR VALUE OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

Determination of Fair Value

Westfield Financial uses fair value measurements to record fair value adjustments to certain assets and liabilities and to determine fair value disclosures.  The fair value of a financial instrument is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Fair value is best determined based upon quoted market prices. However, in many instances, there are no quoted market prices for Westfield Financial’s various financial instruments. In cases where quoted market prices are not available, fair values are based on estimates using present value or other valuation techniques. Those techniques are significantly affected by the assumptions used, including the discount rate and estimates of future cash flows. Accordingly, the fair value estimates may not be realized in an immediate settlement of the instrument.

Fair Value Hierarchy

Westfield Financial groups its financial assets and financial liabilities generally measured at fair value in three levels, based on the markets in which the assets and liabilities are traded and the reliability of the assumptions used to determine fair value.

Level 1 – Valuation is based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Level 1 assets and liabilities generally include debt and equity securities that are traded in an active exchange market. Valuations are obtained from readily available pricing sources for market transactions involving identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2 – Valuation is based on observable inputs other than Level 1 prices, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities. For example, Level 2 assets and liabilities may include debt securities with quoted prices that are traded less frequently than exchange-traded instruments or mortgage loans held for sale, for which the fair value is based on what the securitization market is currently offering for mortgage loans with similar characteristics.

 
17

 

Level 3 – Valuation is based on unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities. Level 3 assets and liabilities include financial instruments whose value is determined using pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies, or similar techniques, as well as instruments for which the determination of fair value requires significant management judgment or estimation. This category generally includes certain asset-backed securities, certain private equity investments, residential mortgage servicing rights, and long-term derivative contracts.

Methods and assumptions for valuing Westfield Financial’s financial instruments are set forth below for financial instruments that have fair values different than their carrying values.  Estimated fair values are calculated based on the value without regard to any premium or discount that may result from concentrations of ownership of a financial instrument, possible tax ramifications or estimated transaction cost.

Cash and cash equivalents - The carrying amounts of cash and short-term instruments approximate fair values based on the short-term nature of the assets.

Interest-bearing deposits in banks - The carrying amounts of interest-bearing deposits maturing within ninety days approximate their fair values. Fair values of other interest-bearing deposits are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses based on current market rates for similar types of deposits.

Securities and mortgage-backed securities - The securities measured at fair value in Level 1 are based on quoted market prices in an active exchange market. These securities include marketable equity securities.  All other securities are measured at fair value in Level 2 and are based on pricing models that consider standard input factors such as observable market data, benchmark yields, interest rate volatilities, broker/dealer quotes, credit spreads and new issue data.

Federal Home Loan Bank and other stock - These investments are carried at cost which is their estimated redemption value.

Loans receivable - For variable-rate loans that reprice frequently and with no significant change in credit risk, fair values are based on carrying values. Fair values for certain mortgage loans (e.g., one-to-four family residential), credit card loans, and other consumer loans are based on quoted market prices of similar loans sold in conjunction with securitization transactions, adjusted for differences in loan characteristics. Fair values for other loans (e.g., commercial real estate and investment property mortgage loans, commercial and industrial loans) are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses, using market interest rates currently being offered for loans with similar terms to borrowers of similar credit quality. Fair values for non-performing loans are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses or underlying collateral values, where applicable.

Accrued interest - The carrying amounts of accrued interest approximate fair value.

Deposit liabilities - The fair values disclosed for demand deposits (e.g., interest and non-interest checking, passbook savings, and certain types of money market accounts) are, by definition, equal to the amount payable on demand at the reporting date (i.e., their carrying amounts). The carrying amounts of variable-rate, fixed-term money market accounts and certificates of deposit approximate their fair values at the reporting date. Fair values for fixed-rate certificates of deposit are estimated using a discounted cash flow calculation that applies market interest rates currently being offered on certificates to a schedule of aggregated expected monthly maturities on time deposits.

Short-term borrowings - For short-term borrowings maturing within ninety days, carrying values approximate fair values. Fair values of other short-term borrowings are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses based on the current incremental borrowing rates in the market for similar types of borrowing arrangements.

Long-term debt - The fair values of Westfield Financial’s long-term debt are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses based on the current incremental borrowing rates in the market for similar types of borrowing arrangements.


 
18

 

Commitments to extend credit - The stated value of commitments to extend credit approximates fair value as the current interest rates for similar commitments do not differ significantly.  For fixed-rate loan commitments, fair value also considers the difference between current levels of interest rates and the committed rates.  Such differences are not considered significant.

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


  
September 30, 2009
 
   
Level 1
  
Level 2
  
Level 3
  
Total
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Securities available for sale
 $6,565  $13,194  $-  $19,759 
Mortgage-backed securities available for sale
  -   301,597   -   301,597 
  $6,565  $314,791  $-  $321,356 

  
September 30, 2008
 
   
Level 1
  
Level 2
  
Level 3
  
Total
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Securities available for sale
 $6,178  $17,236  $-  $23,414 
Mortgage-backed securities available for sale
  -   201,189   -   201,189 
  $6,178  $218,425  $-  $224,603 

Also, Westfield Financial may be required, from time to time, to measure certain other financial assets and liabilities on a non-recurring basis in accordance with GAAP.  These adjustments to fair value usually result from application of lower-of-cost-or-market accounting or write-downs of individual assets.  The following table summarizes the fair value hierarchy used to determine each adjustment and the carrying value of the related individual assets at and for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008.

  
At September 30, 2009
  
Three Months
Ended
September 30,
2009
  
Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
2009
 
            
Total
  
Total
 
   
Level 1
  
Level 2
  
Level 3
  
Gains (Losses)
  
Gains (Losses)
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Impaired loans
 $-  $-  $1,271  $(482) $(879)
Total assets
 $-  $-  $1,271  $(482) $(879)

  
At September 30, 2008
  
Three Months
Ended
September 30,
2008
  
Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
2008
 
   
Level 1
  
Level 2
  
Level 3
  
Total
Gains (Losses)
  
Total
Gains (Losses)
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Impaired loans
 $-  $-  $1,534  $-  $(91)
Total assets
 $-  $-  $1,534  $-  $(91)
 
 
19

 

The amount of loans represents the carrying value and related write-down and valuation allowance of impaired loans for which adjustments are based on the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral.  The resulting losses were recognized in earnings through the provision for loan losses.
Westfield Financial does not measure any liabilities at fair value on a recurring or non-recurring basis on the consolidated balance sheets.

The estimated fair values of Westfield Financial’s financial instruments are as follows:

  
September 30, 2009
  
December 31, 2008
 
  
Carrying
  
Estimated
  
Carrying
  
Estimated
 
  
Value
  
Fair Value
  
Value
  
Fair Value
 
  
(In thousands)
 
Assets:
            
Cash and cash equivalents
 $24,605  $24,605  $56,533  $56,533 
Securities:
                
Available for sale
  19,759   19,759   24,396   24,396 
Held to maturity
  69,272   73,297   79,303   82,491 
                 
Mortgage-backed securities:
                
Available for sale
  301,597   301,597   233,747   233,747 
Held to maturity
  237,580   243,121   168,332   168,716 
Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston and other restricted stock
  10,003   10,003   8,456   8,456 
                 
Loans- net
  466,808   475,390   472,135   492,121 
                 
Accrued interest receivable
  5,195   5,195   5,261   5,261 
                 
Liabilities:
                
Deposits
  654,190   655,881   588,029   591,244 
                 
Short-term borrowings
  55,843   55,843   49,824   49,824 
                 
Long-term debt
  218,813   222,625   173,300   177,567 
                 
Accrued interest payable
  782   782   762   762 

Limitations- - Fair value estimates are made at a specific point in time, based on relevant market information and information about the financial instrument.  These estimates do not reflect any premium or discount that could result from offering for sale at one time Westfield Financial’s entire holdings of a particular financial instrument.  Where quoted market prices are not available, fair value estimates are based on judgments regarding future expected loss experience, current economic conditions, risk characteristics of various financial instruments, and other factors.  These estimates are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment. Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the estimates.

10.  SUBSEQUENT EVENT

Management evaluated all events or transactions that occurred after September 30, 2009 up through November 5, 2009, the date Westfield Financial issued these financial statements.  During this period, Westfield Financial did not have any material recognized or unrecognized subsequent events.
 
 
20

 
11.  RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
 
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141(revised 2007) (“SFAS 141R”), Business Combinations (ASC Topic 141). The Statement requires that all business combinations be accounted for under the "acquisition method." The Statement requires that the assets, liabilities and noncontrolling interests of a business combination be measured at fair value at the acquisition date. The acquisition date is defined as the date an acquirer obtains control of the entity, which is typically the closing date. The Statement requires that all acquisition and restructuring related costs be expensed as incurred and that any contingent consideration be measured at fair value and recorded as either equity or a liability with the liability remeasured at fair value in subsequent periods. The Statement bcame effective January 1, 2009 and is not applicable to Westfield Financial, and therefore, will not have an impact on its consolidated financial statements.
 
In December 2008, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued FASB Staff Position (“FSP”) No. 132(R)-1, Employers’ Disclosures about Postretirement Benefit Plan Assets (“FSP 132(R)-1”) (ASC Topic 715). This FASB staff position amends FASB Statement No. 132 to provide guidance on an employer’s disclosures about plan assets of a defined benefit pension or other postretirement plan. FSP FAS 132(R)-1 requires disclosure of the fair value of each major category of plan assets for pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans. This FASB staff position becomes effective for the Company on January 1, 2010. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adopting FSP FAS 132(R)-1 on the consolidated financial statements, but it is not expected to have a material impact. 
 
In June 2008, the FASB issued Staff Position No. EITF 03-6-1 (“FSP 03-6-1”), Determining Whether Instruments Granted in Share-Based Payment Transactions Are Participating Securities (ASC Topic 718), which addresses whether instruments granted in share-based payment transactions are participating securities prior to vesting and, therefore, need to be included in the earnings allocation in computing earnings per share under the two-class method described in paragraphs 60 and 61 of FASB Statement No. 128, Earnings Per Share. FSP 03-6-1 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, and interim periods within those years. All prior-period earnings per share data presented shall be adjusted retrospectively (including interim financial statements, summaries of earnings and selected financial data) to conform with the provisions of FSP 03-6-1.  Early application is not permitted. The adoption of FSP 03-6-1 did not have a material impact on Westfield Financial’s consolidated financial statements.
 
In April 2009, the FASB issued FSP No. 115-2 (“FSP 115-2”), Recognition and Presentation of Other-Than-Temporary Impairments (ASC Topic 320). FSP 115-2 amends the other-than-temporary impairment guidance in U.S. GAAP for debt securities to make the guidance more operational and to improve the presentation and disclosure of other-than-temporary impairments on debt and equity securities in the financial statements. FSP 115-2 does not amend existing recognition and measurement guidance related to other-than-temporary impairments of equity securities. FSP 115-2 is effective for interim and annual reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009, with early adoption permitted for periods ending after March 15, 2009. Westfield Financial applied the guidance contained in FSP 115-2 effective in January 2009 resulting in a cumulative effect adjustment of $1.034 million ($1.566 million before taxes) that increased retained earnings and increased accumulated other comprehensive loss.
 
In April 2009, the FASB issued FSP No. 157-4 (“FSP 157-4”), Determining Fair Value When the Volume and Level of Activity for the Asset or Liability Have Significantly Decreased and Identifying Transactions That Are Not Orderly (ASC Topic 820). FSP 157-4 provides additional guidance for estimating fair value in accordance with FASB Statement No. 157, Fair Value Measurements, when the volume and level of activity for the asset or liability have significantly decreased. This FSP also includes guidance on identifying circumstances that indicate a transaction is not orderly. FSP 157-4 emphasizes that even if there has been a significant decrease in the volume and level of activity for the asset or liability and regardless of the valuation technique(s) used, the objective of a fair value measurement remains the same. Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction (that is, not a forced liquidation or distressed sale) between market participants at the measurement date under current market conditions. FSP 157-4 is effective for interim and annual reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009, and shall be applied prospectively.
 
 
21

 
 
In April 2009, the FASB issued FSP No. 107-1 (“FSP 107-1”), Interim Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments (ASC Topic 270). This FSP amends FASB Statement No. 107, Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments, to require disclosures about fair value of financial instruments for interim reporting periods of publicly traded companies as well as in annual financial statements. This FSP also amends APB Opinion No. 28, Interim Financial Reporting, to require those disclosures in summarized financial information at interim reporting periods. FSP 107-1 was effective for interim reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009, with early adoption permitted for periods ending after March 15, 2009. The adoption of this pronouncement did not have a material impact on Westfield Financial’s consolidated financial statements.
 
In May 2009, the FASB issued SFAS No. 165 Subsequent Events (SFAS No. 165) (ASC Topic 855). SFAS No. 165 establishes general standards of accounting for and disclosure of events that occur after the balance sheet date but before financial statements are issued or are available to be issued.  The statement sets forth (1) the period after the balance sheet date during which management of a reporting entity should evaluate events or transactions that may occur for potential recognition or disclosure in the financial statements; (2) the circumstances under which an entity should recognize events or transactions occurring after the balance sheet date in its financial statements and (3) the disclosure that an entity should make about events or transactions that occurred after the balance sheet date.  SFAS No. 165 is effective for fiscal years and interim periods ending after June 15, 2009, and shall be applied prospectively.  Westfield Financial adopted this statement as of June 30, 2009 and such adoption did not have an impact on the results of operations or financial position.

In June 2009, the FASB issued two related accounting pronouncements changing the accounting principles and disclosures requirements related to securitizations and special-purpose entities.  Specifically, these pronouncements eliminate the concept of a “qualifying special-purpose entity”, change the requirements for derecognizing financial assets and change how a company determines when an entity that is insufficiently capitalized or is not controlled through voting (or similar rights) should be consolidated.  These pronouncements also expand existing disclosure requirements to include more information about transfers of financial assets, including securitization transactions, and where companies have continuing exposure to the risks related to transferred financial assets.  These pronouncements will be effective as of the beginning of each reporting entity’s first annual reporting period that begins after November 15, 2009, for interim periods within that first annual reporting period and for interim and annual reporting periods thereafter.  Earlier application is prohibited.  The recognition and measurement provisions regarding transfers of financial assets shall be applied to transfers that occur on or after the effective date.   The adoption of these pronouncements is not expected to have a material impact on Westfield Financial’s consolidated financial statements.

In June 2009, the FASB issued Financial Accounting Standard No. 168, “The FASB Accounting Standards Codification and the Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles – a replacement of FASB Statement No. 162” (FAS 168). In addition in June 2009, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2009-01, “ASC Topic 205 – Generally Accepted Accounting Principles - amendments based on Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 168 – The FASB Accounting Standards Codification and the Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles” (ASU 2009-1). Both FAS 168 and ASU 2009-1 recognize the FASB Accounting Standards Codification as the source of authoritative U.S. generally accepted accounting principles to be utilized by nongovernmental entities. FAS 168 and ASU 2009-1 are effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009.  This statement is not expected to have a material impact on Westfield Financial’s consolidated financial statements.

In August 2009, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2009-05 (ASU 2009-5) which provides clarification that in circumstances in which a quoted price in an active market for the identical liability is not available, a reporting entity is required to measure fair value using one or more of the following techniques:

 
1.
A valuation technique that uses:
 
a.
The quoted price of the identical liability when traded as an asset
 
b.
Quoted prices for similar liabilities or similar liabilities when traded as assets.
 
2.
Another valuation technique that is consistent with the principles of Topic 820.  Two examples would be an income approach, such as a present value technique, or a market approach, such as a technique that is based on the amount at the measurement date that the reporting entity would pay to transfer the identical liability or would receive to enter into the identical liability.

ASU 2009-5 also clarifies that:

 
22

 

 
·
When estimating the fair value of a liability, a reporting entity is not required to include a separate input or adjustment to other inputs relating to the existence of a restriction that prevents the transfer of the liability; and
 
·
That both a quoted price in an active market for the identical liability at the measurement date and the   quoted price for the identical liability when traded as an asset in an active market when no adjustments to the quoted price of the asset are required are Level 1 fair value measurements.

This guidance is effective for the first reporting period (including interim periods) beginning after issuance, which is October 1, 2009 for Westfield Financial and is not expected to have a material effect on its consolidated financial statements.

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

Overview

We strive to remain a leader in meeting the financial service needs of the local community and to provide quality service to the individuals and businesses in the market areas that it has served since 1853.  Historically, we have been a community-oriented provider of traditional banking products and services to business organizations and individuals, including products such as residential and commercial real estate loans, consumer loans and a variety of deposit products.  We meet the needs of our local community through a community-based and service-oriented approach to banking.

We have adopted a growth-oriented strategy that has focused on increased emphasis on commercial lending.  Our strategy also calls for increasing deposit relationships and broadening its product lines and services.  We believe that this business strategy is best for its long-term success and viability, and complements its existing commitment to high-quality customer service.  In connection with its overall growth strategy, we seek to:

 
·
grow our commercial and industrial and commercial real estate loan portfolio by targeting businesses in our primary market area and in northern Connecticut as a means to increase the yield on and diversify our loan portfolio and build transactional deposit account relationships;

 
·
focus on expanding our retail banking franchise and increasing the number of households served within our market area; and

 
·
depending on market conditions, refer substantially all of the fixed-rate residential real estate loans to a third-party mortgage company that underwrites, originates and services these loans in order to diversify our loan portfolio, increase fee income and reduce interest rate risk.

Please review our financial results for the quarter ended September 30, 2009 in the context of this strategy.

 
·
Net income was $1.2 million, or $0.04 per diluted share, for the quarter ended September 30, 2009 compared to $2.0 million, or $0.07 per diluted share for the same period in 2008.  For the nine months ended September 30, 2009, net income was $3.5 million, or $0.12 per diluted share compared to $6.0 million or $0.20 per diluted share for the same period in 2008.

 
·
FDIC insurance expense increased $78,000 to $102,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2009 from $24,000 for the same period in 2008.  The FDIC insurance expense increased $885,000 to $950,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 from $65,000 for the same period in 2008.  The nine months ended September 30, 2009 includes $453,000 for a special assessment that was imposed upon all banks at June 30, 2009.

 
·
The provision for loans losses was $620,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2009 compared to $275,000 for the same period in 2008.  For the nine months ended September 30, 2009, the provision for loan losses was $2.4 million compared to $690,000 for the same period in 2008.  The factors that influenced the increase in the provision for loan losses primarily include an increase in charge-offs and the continued weakening of the local and national economy.

 
23

 
 
 
·
The three and nine months ended September 30, 2009 includes net losses on the sale of securities of $774,000 and $565,000, respectively, compared to net gains of $486,000 and $805,000, respectively for the same periods in 2008.  We incurred losses on the sale of securities of $2.2 million for both the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009, due to a loss on the sale of a single security.  The credit quality of the security had deteriorated and management opted to sell it in the third quarter of 2009.  The losses were partially offset by gains on the sale of other securities of $1.4 million and $1.6 million, respectively, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Our critical accounting policies, given our current business strategy and asset/liability structure, are revenue recognition on loans, the accounting for allowance for loan losses and provision for loan losses, the classification of securities as either held to maturity or available for sale, other than-temporary-impairment of securities and the valuation of deferred taxes.

Our general policy is to discontinue the accrual of interest when principal or interest payments are delinquent 90 days or more, or earlier if the loan is considered impaired. Any unpaid amounts previously accrued on these loans are reversed from income.  Subsequent cash receipts are applied to the outstanding principal balance or to interest income if, in the judgment of management, collection of principal balance is not in question. Loans are returned to accrual status when they become current as to both principal and interest and when subsequent performance reduces the concern as to the collectability of principal and interest.  Loan fees and certain direct loan origination costs are deferred, and the net fee or cost is recognized as an adjustment to interest income over the estimated average lives of the related loans.

Our methodology for assessing the appropriateness of the allowance consists of two key components: a specific allowance for identified problem or impaired loans, and a general allowance for the remainder of the portfolio.  Measurement of impairment can be based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate, the loan’s observable market price or the fair value of the collateral, if the loan is collateral dependent.  This evaluation is inherently subjective as it requires material estimates that may be susceptible to significant change.  The appropriateness of the allowance is also reviewed by management based upon its evaluation of then-existing economic and business conditions affecting our key lending areas and other conditions, such as new loan products, credit quality trends (including trends in nonperforming loans expected to result from existing conditions), collateral values, loan volumes and concentrations, specific industry conditions within portfolio segments that existed as of the balance sheet date and the impact that such conditions were believed to have had on the collectability of the loan portfolio.  Although management believes it has established and maintained the allowance for loan losses at adequate levels, if management’s assumptions and judgments prove to be incorrect due to continued deterioration in economic, real estate and other conditions, and the allowance for loan losses is not adequate to absorb inherent losses, our earnings and capital could be significantly and adversely affected.

Securities, including mortgage-backed securities, that management has the positive intent and ability to hold until maturity are classified as held to maturity and are carried at amortized cost. Securities, including mortgage-backed securities, that have been identified as assets for which there is not a positive intent to hold to maturity are classified as available for sale and are carried at fair value with unrealized gains and losses, net of income taxes, reported as a separate component of equity.  Accordingly, a misclassification would have a direct effect on stockholders’ equity. Sales or reclassification as available for sale (except for certain permitted reasons) of held to maturity securities may result in the reclassification of all such securities to available for sale.  We have never sold held to maturity securities or reclassified such securities to available for sale other than in specifically permitted circumstances.  We do not acquire securities or mortgage-backed securities for purposes of engaging in trading activities.
 
 
24

 

On a quarterly basis, we review securities with unrealized depreciation on a judgmental basis to assess whether the decline in fair value is temporary or other-than-temporary.  Declines in the fair value of held to maturity and available for sale securities below their amortized cost basis that are deemed to be other-than-temporarily impaired are recognized in earnings to the extent the impairment is related to credit losses.  The amount of the other-than-temporary impairment related to other factors is recognized in other comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes.  In estimating other-than-temporary impairment losses, management considers (1) the length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been less than cost, (2) the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer, and (3) the likelihood that it will be required to sell the securities prior to the recovery of their amortized cost basis less any credit losses.

We must make certain estimates in determining income tax expense for financial statement purposes.  These estimates occur in the calculation of the deferred tax assets and liabilities, which arise from the temporary differences between the tax basis and financial statement basis of our assets and liabilities.  The carrying value of our net deferred tax asset is based on our historic taxable income for the two prior years as well as our belief that it is more likely than not that we will generate sufficient future taxable income to realize these deferred tax assets.  Judgments regarding future taxable income may change due to changes in market conditions, changes in tax laws or other factors which could result in a change in the assessment of the realization of the net deferred tax assets.

COMPARISON OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AT SEPTEMBER 30, 2009 AND DECEMBER 31, 2008

Total assets increased $152.5 million to $1.3 billion at September 30, 2009.  Securities increased $124.0 million to $638.2 million at September 30, 2009 from $514.2 million at December 31, 2008.  The increase in securities was the result of reinvesting funds from deposits, short-term borrowings and long-term debt into securities.

The composition of our loan portfolio at September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008 is summarized as follows:

  
September 30,
  
December 31,
 
  
2009
  
2008
 
  
(In thousands)
 
       
Commercial real estate
 $226,218  $223,857 
Residential real estate
  65,045   62,810 
Home equity
  34,302   35,562 
Commercial and industrial
  145,125   153,861 
Consumer
  3,636   4,248 
Total loans
  474,326   480,338 
Unearned premiums and deferred loan fees and costs, net
  339   593 
Allowance for loan losses
  (7,857)  (8,796)
  $466,808  $472,135 

Net loans decreased by $5.3 million to $466.8 million at September 30, 2009 from $472.1 million at December 31, 2008.  The decrease in net loans was primarily the result of a decrease in commercial and industrial loans, partially offset by an increase in commercial real estate loans and residential loans.  Commercial and industrial loans decreased $8.8 million to $145.1 million at September 30, 2009 from $153.9 million at December 31, 2008.  This was primarily the result of customers decreasing their balances on lines of credit, the charge-off of a single commercial loan relationship for $3.1 million, the majority of which was recorded in the first quarter of 2009, and normal loan payments and payoffs.  Commercial real estate loans increased $2.3 million to $226.2 million at September 30, 2009 from $223.9 million at December 31, 2008.  Owner occupied commercial real estate loans totaled $99.1 million at September 30, 2009 and $96.3 million at December 31, 2008, while non-owner occupied commercial real estate loans totaled $127.1 million at September 30, 2009 and $127.6 million at December 31, 2008.  Residential loans increased $975,000 to $99.3 million.

Nonperforming loans decreased $2.5 million to $6.3 million at September 30, 2009 compared to $8.8 million at December 31, 2008.  This represented 1.33 % of total loans at September 30, 2009 and 1.83% of total loans at December 31, 2008.  The decrease in nonperforming loans was related to a single commercial manufacturing relationship of $5.5 million.  The business was sold in 2009 and resulted in a charge-off of $3.1 million, the majority of which was recorded in the first quarter of 2009.
 
 
25

 

The following table presents information regarding nonperforming mortgage, consumer and other loans and foreclosed real estate as of the dates indicated.  All loans where the interest payment is 90 days or more in arrears as of the closing date of each month are placed on nonaccrual status.  At September 30, 2009, we had $6.3 million of nonaccrual loans and no foreclosed real estate.  At December 31, 2008, we had $8.8 million of nonaccrual loans and no foreclosed real estate.  If all nonaccrual loans had been performing in accordance with their terms, we would have earned additional interest income of $174,000 and $200,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 and the year ended December 31, 2008, respectively.
 
  
September 30, 2009
  
December 31, 2008
 
  
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Nonaccrual real estate loans:
      
Residential
 $1,277  $905 
Home equity
  195   239 
Commercial real estate
  1,366   1,460 
Total nonaccrual real estate loans
  2,838   2,604 
         
Other loans:
        
Commercial and industrial
  3,473   6,195 
Consumer
  3   6 
Total nonaccrual consumer and other loans
  3,476   6,201 
Total nonperforming loans
  6,314   8,805 
Foreclosed real estate, net
  -   - 
Total nonperforming assets
 $6,314  $8,805 
Nonperforming loans to total loans
  1.33%  1.83%
Nonperforming assets to total assets
  0.50   0.79 

Asset growth was funded primarily through a $66.2 million increase in deposits and a $45.5 million increase in long-term debt.  Total deposits increased $66.2 million to $654.2 million at September 30, 2009 from $588.0 million at December 31, 2008.  The increase in deposits was due to an increase in checking accounts and regular savings accounts.  Checking accounts increased $31.1 million to $165.7 million at September 30, 2009 from $134.6 million for December 31, 2008.  Regular savings accounts increased $25.8 million to $93.9 million at September 30, 2009.  The increases in both checking and savings accounts were primarily due to accounts which pay a higher interest rate than comparable products.  Time deposit accounts increased $15.3 million to $342.9 million at September 30, 2009.

Long-term debt, which includes FHLB advances and securities sold under repurchase agreements with an original maturity of one year or more, was $218.8 million at September 30, 2009 and $173.3 million at December 31, 2008.
 
Stockholders’ equity at September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008 was $257.2 million and $259.9 million, respectively, which represented 20.4% of total assets as of September 30, 2009 and 23.4% of total assets as of December 31, 2008.  The change in stockholders’ equity is comprised of the repurchase of 758,889 shares for $6.9 million related to the stock repurchase plan and dividends declared amounting to $8.9 million.  This was partially offset by $6.8 million decrease in other comprehensive loss, net income of $3.5 million and share-based compensation expense of $2.4 million.

COMPARISON OF OPERATING RESULTS FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2009 AND SEPTEMBER 30, 2008

General

Net income was $1.2 million, or $0.04 per diluted share, for the quarter ended September 30, 2009 as compared to $2.0 million, or $0.07 per diluted share, for the same period in 2008.  Net interest and dividend income was $8.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2009 and $8.1 million for the same period in 2008.
 
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Net Interest and Dividend Income

The following tables set forth the information relating to our average balance at, and net interest income for, the three months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008 and reflect the average yield on interest-earning assets and average cost of interest-bearing liabilities for the periods indicated.  Yields and costs are derived by dividing interest income by the average balance of interest-earning assets and interest expense by the average balance of interest-bearing liabilities for the periods shown.  The interest rate spread is the difference between the total average yield on interest-earning assets and the cost of interest-bearing liabilities.  Net interest margin represents tax-equivalent net interest and dividend income as a percentage of average interest earning assets.  Average balances are derived from actual daily balances over the periods indicated.  Interest income includes fees earned from making changes in loan rates and terms and fees earned when the real estate loans are prepaid or refinanced.  For analytical purposes, the interest earned on tax-exempt assets is adjusted to a tax-equivalent basis to recognize the income tax savings which facilities comparison between taxable and tax-exempt assets.
 
 
27

 
 
  
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
  
2009
  
2008
 
  
Average
     
Average
Yield /
  
Average
     
Average
Yield /
 
  
Balance
  
Interest
  
Cost
  
Balance
  
Interest
  
Cost
 
  
(Dollars in thousands)
 
ASSETS:
                  
Interest-earning assets
                  
Loans(1)(2)
 $480,950  $6,530   5.43% $456,407  $6,958   6.10%
Securities(2)
  618,599   6,913   4.47   508,210   6,542   5.15 
Short-term investments(3)
  12,459   2   0.06   33,390   158   1.89 
Total interest-earning assets
  1,112,008   13,445   4.84   998,007   13,658   5.47 
Total noninterest-earning assets
  73,550           71,483         
Total assets
 $1,185,558          $1,069,490         
                         
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY:
                        
Interest-bearing liabilities
                        
NOW accounts
 $80,674   392   1.94  $86,203   328   1.52 
Savings accounts
  89,869   254   1.13   63,906   211   1.32 
Money market accounts
  52,194   113   0.87   65,613   189   1.15 
Time deposits
  341,443   2,462   2.88   322,038   2,823   3.51 
Short-term borrowings and long-term debt
  271,615   1,835   2.70   204,011   1,854   3.64 
Total interest-bearing liabilities
  835,795   5,056   2.42   741,771   5,405   2.91 
Noninterest-bearing deposits
  81,421           46,178         
Other noninterest-bearing liabilities
  11,270           8,600         
Total noninterest-bearing liabilities
  92,691           54,778         
Total liabilities
  928,486           796,549         
Total equity
  257,072           272,941         
Total liabilities and equity
 $1,185,558          $1,069,490         
Less:  Tax-equivalent adjustment(2)
      (147)          (154)    
Net interest and dividend income
     $8,242          $8,099     
Net interest rate spread(4)
          2.42%          2.56%
Net interest margin(5)
          2.99%          3.29%
 

(1)
Loans, including non-accrual loans, are net of deferred loan origination costs, and unadvanced funds.
(2)
Securities, loan income and net interest income are presented on a tax-equivalent basis using a tax rate of 34%.  The tax-equivalent adjustment is deducted from tax-equivalent net interest and dividend income to agree to the amount reported in the statements of income.
(3)
Short-term investments include federal funds sold.
(4)
Net interest rate spread represents the difference between the weighted average yield on interest-earning assets and the weighted average cost of interest-bearing liabilities.
(5)
Net interest margin represents tax-equivalent net interest and dividend income as a percentage of average interest earning assets.

The following table shows how changes in interest rates and changes in the volume of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities have affected our interest income and interest expense during the periods indicated.  Information is provided in each category with respect to:

·
Interest income changes attributable to changes in volume (changes in volume multiplied by prior rate);
·
Interest income changes attributable to changes in rate (changes in rate multiplied by current volume); and
·
The net change.
 
 
28

 

The changes attributable to the combined impact of volume and rate have been allocated proportionately to the changes due to volume and the changes due to rate.

  
Three Months Ended September 30, 2009 compared
 
  
to Three Months Ended September 30, 2008
 
  
Increase (Decrease) Due to
    
  
Volume
  
Rate
  
Net
 
  
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Interest-earning assets
         
Short-term investments
 $(99) $(57) $(156)
Investment securities (1)
  1,421   (1,050)  371 
Loans (1)
  374   (802)  (428)
Total interest earning assets
  1,696   (1,909)  (213)
             
Interest-bearing liabilities
            
NOW accounts
  (21)  85   64 
Savings accounts
  86   (43)  43 
Money market accounts
  (39)  (37)  (76)
Time deposits
  170   (531)  (361)
Short-term borrowing and long-term debt
  614   (633)  (19)
Total interest-bearing liabilities
  810   (1,159)  (349)
Change in net interest and dividend income
 $886  $(750) $136 
 

(1)
 Securities and loan income and net interest income are presented on a tax-equivalent basis using a tax rate of 34%. The tax-equivalent adjustment is deducted from tax-equivalent net interest income.

Net interest and dividend income increased $143,000 to $8.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2009 from $8.1 million for the same period in 2008.  The net interest margin, on a tax-equivalent basis, was 2.99% for the three months ended September 30, 2009 as compared to 3.29% for the same period in 2008.  Interest and dividend income, on a tax-equivalent basis, decreased $213,000 to $13.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2009 from $13.7 million for the same period in 2008.  The average yield on interest-earning assets decreased 63 basis points to 4.84% for the three months ended September 30, 2009 from 5.47% for the same period in 2008.

The decrease in interest income was partially offset by a decrease in interest expense.  Interest expense decreased $349,000 to $5.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2009 from $5.4 million for the same period in 2008.  The average cost of interest-bearing liabilities decreased 49 basis points to 2.42% for the three months ended September 30, 2009 from 2.91% for the same period in 2008, as a result of the declining rate environment.

Provision for Loan Losses

The amount that we provided for loan losses during the three months ended September 30, 2009 was based upon the changes that occurred in the loan portfolio during that same period. The changes in the loan portfolio, described in detail below, include an increase in charge-offs, the continued weakening of the local and national economy.  After evaluating these factors, we provided $620,000 for loan losses for the three months ended September 30, 2009, compared to $275,000 for the same period in 2008.  The allowance was $7.9 million at September 30, 2009 and $6.4 million at September 30, 2008.  The allowance for loan losses was 1.66% of total loans at September 30, 2009 and 1.38% at September 30, 2008.

Net charge-offs were $99,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2009.  This was comprised of charge-offs of $117,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2009, partially offset by recoveries of $18,000 for the same period.  Net recoveries were $6,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2008.  This was comprised of charge-offs of $11,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2008, partially offset by recoveries of $17,000 for the same period.

 
29

 
 
Although management believes it has established and maintained the allowance for loan losses at adequate levels, future adjustments may be necessary if economic, real estate and other conditions differ substantially from the current operating environment.

Noninterest Income

Noninterest income decreased $918,000 to $(119,000) for the three months ended September 30, 2009 from $799,000 for the same period in 2008.  The three months ended September 30, 2009 includes a net loss on the sale of securities of $774,000 compared to a net gain of $486,000 for the same period in 2008.  We incurred losses on the sale of securities of $2.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2009, due to a loss on the sale of a single security.  The credit quality of the security had deteriorated and management opted to sell it in the third quarter of 2009.  The losses were partially offset by gains on the sale of other securities of $1.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2009.

Noninterest Expense

Noninterest expense for the three months ended September 30, 2009 was $6.1 million, compared to $5.8 million for the same period in 2008.

Salaries and benefits increased $155,000 to $3.8 million for the three months ended September 30, 2009 from $3.7 million for the same period in 2008.  Expenses related to the defined benefit pension plan increased $184,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2009.  The increase was due to a decline in the value of assets held by the pension plan.

Income Taxes

For the three months ended September 30, 2009, we had a tax provision of $197,000 as compared to $793,000 for the same period in 2008.  The effective tax rate was 13.7% for the three months ended September 30, 2009 and 27.9% for the same period in 2008.  The decrease in effective tax rate from September 30, 2009 is due primarily to lower pre-tax income while maintaining the same level of tax-advantaged income such as BOLI and tax-exempt municipal obligations.

COMPARISON OF OPERATING RESULTS FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2009 AND SEPTEMBER 30, 2008

General

Net income was $3.5 million, or $0.12 per diluted share, for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 as compared to $6.0 million, or $0.20 per diluted share, for the same period in 2008.  Net interest and dividend income was $24.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 and $23.8 million for the same period in 2008.

Net Interest and Dividend Income

The following tables set forth the information relating to our average balance at, and net interest income for, the nine months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008 and reflect the average yield on interest-earning assets and average cost of interest-bearing liabilities for the periods indicated.  Yields and costs are derived by dividing interest income by the average balance of interest-earning assets and interest expense by the average balance of interest-bearing liabilities for the periods shown.  The interest rate spread is the difference between the total average yield on interest-earning assets and the cost of interest-bearing liabilities.  Net interest margin represents tax-equivalent net interest and dividend income as a percentage of average interest earning assets.  Average balances are derived from actual daily balances over the periods indicated.  Interest income includes fees earned from making changes in loan rates and terms and fees earned when the real estate loans are prepaid or refinanced.  For analytical purposes interest earned on tax-exempt assets is adjusted to a tax-equivalent basis to recognize the income tax savings which facilities comparison between taxable and tax-exempt assets.

 
30

 

  
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
  
2009
  
2008
 
  
Average
     
Average
Yield /
  
Average
     
Average
Yield /
 
  
Balance
  
Interest
  
Cost
  
Balance
  
Interest
  
Cost
 
  
(Dollars in thousands)
 
ASSETS:
                  
Interest-earning assets
                  
Loans(1)(2)
 $476,945  $19,497   5.45% $436,537  $20,362   6.22%
Securities(2)
  573,971   20,302   4.72   530,296   20,343   5.11 
Short-term investments(3)
  17,507   11   0.08   31,779   544   2.28 
Total interest-earning assets
  1,068,423   39,810   4.97   998,612   41,249   5.51 
Total noninterest-earning assets
  72,389           67,809         
Total assets
 $1,140,812          $1,066,421         
                         
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY:
                        
Interest-bearing liabilities
                        
NOW accounts
 $67,451   967   1.91  $86,681   947   1.46 
Savings accounts
  80,913   682   1.12   57,995   553   1.27 
Money market accounts
  53,876   369   0.91   69,195   608   1.17 
Time deposits
  335,699   7,767   3.08   332,213   9,578   3.84 
Short-term borrowings and long-term debt
  252,492   5,522   2.92   190,159   5,374   3.77 
Total interest-bearing liabilities
  790,431   15,307   2.58   736,243   17,060   3.09 
Noninterest-bearing deposits
  79,650           42,972         
Other noninterest-bearing liabilities
  11,486           8,862         
Total noninterest-bearing liabilities
  91,136           51,834         
Total liabilities
  881,567           788,077         
Total equity
  259,245           278,344         
Total liabilities and equity
 $1,140,812          $1,066,421         
Less:  Tax-equivalent adjustment(2)
      (434)          (428)    
Net interest and dividend income
     $24,069          $23,761     
Net interest rate spread(4)
          2.39%          2.42%
Net interest margin(5)
          3.07%          3.24%
 

(1)
Loans, including non-accrual loans, are net of deferred loan origination costs, and unadvanced funds.
(2)
Securities, loan income and net interest income are presented on a tax-equivalent basis using a tax rate of 34%.  The tax-equivalent adjustment is deducted from tax-equivalent net interest and dividend income to agree to the amount reported in the statements of income.
(3)
Short-term investments include federal funds sold.
(4)
Net interest rate spread represents the difference between the weighted average yield on interest-earning assets and the weighted average cost of interest-bearing liabilities.
(5)
Net interest margin represents tax-equivalent net interest and dividend income as a percentage of average interest earning assets.

The following table shows how changes in interest rates and changes in the volume of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities have affected our interest income and interest expense during the periods indicated.  Information is provided in each category with respect to:

·
Interest income changes attributable to changes in volume (changes in volume multiplied by prior rate);
·
Interest income changes attributable to changes in rate (changes in rate multiplied by current volume); and
·
The net change.

The changes attributable to the combined impact of volume and rate have been allocated proportionately to the changes due to volume and the changes due to rate.

 
31

 

  
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2009 compared
 
  
to Nine Months Ended September 30, 2008
 
  
Increase (Decrease) Due to
    
  
Volume
  
Rate
  
Net
 
  
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Interest-earning assets
 
 
 
Loans (1)
 $1,885  $(2,750) $(865)
Securities (1)
  1,675   (1,716)  (41)
Short-term investments
  (244)  (289)  (533)
Total interest-earning assets
  3,316   (4,755)  (1,439)
             
Interest-bearing liabilities
            
NOW accounts
  (210)  230   20 
Savings accounts
  219   (90)  129 
Money market accounts
  (135)  (104)  (239)
Time deposits
  101   (1,912)  (1,811)
Short-term borrowing and long-time debt
  1,762   (1,614)  148 
Total interest-bearing liabilities
  1,737   (3,490)  (1,753)
Change in net interest and dividend income
 $1,579  $(1,265) $314 
 

(1)
Securities and loan income and net interest income are presented on a tax-equivalent basis using a tax rate of 34%. The tax-equivalent adjustment is deducted from tax-equivalent net interest income.

Net interest and dividend income increased $308,000 to $24.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 from $23.8 million for the same period in 2008.  The net interest margin, on a tax-equivalent basis, was 3.07% for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 as compared to 3.24% for the same period in 2008.  The primary reason for the increase in net interest and dividend income was that the cost of interest-bearing liabilities decreased more than the yield on interest-earning assets for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 compared to the same period in 2008.  Interest expense decreased $1.8 million to $15.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 compared to the same period for 2008.  The average cost of interest-bearing liabilities decreased 51 basis points to 2.58% for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 from 3.09% for the same period in 2008.  The decrease in the cost of interest-bearing liabilities was primarily due to a decrease in rates on time deposits, repurchase agreements and borrowings.

Interest and dividend income, on a tax-equivalent basis, decreased $1.4 million to $39.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 from $41.2 million for the same period in 2008.  The primary reason for the decrease in interest and dividend income was a decrease in the rate on interest-earning assets.  The yield on average interest-earning assets decreased 54 basis points to 4.97% for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 from 5.51% for the same period in 2008.  This was partially offset by an increase of $69.8 million in the balance of average earning assets to $1.1 billion for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 from $998.6 million for the same period in 2008.

Provision for Loan Losses

The amount that we provided for loan losses during the nine months ended September 30, 2009 was based upon the changes that occurred in the loan portfolio during that same period. The changes in the loan portfolio, described in detail below, include an increase in charge-offs and the continued weakening of the local and national economy.  After evaluating these factors, we provided $2.4 million for loan losses for the nine months ended September 30, 2009, compared to $690,000 for the same period in 2008.  The allowance was $7.9 million at September 30, 2009 and $8.8 million at December 31, 2008.  The allowance for loan losses was 1.66% of total loans at September 30, 2009 and 1.83% at December 31, 2008.

 
32

 

Net charge-offs were $3.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 as compared to $8,000 for the same period in 2008.  This was comprised of charge-offs of $3.3 million offset by recoveries of $41,000.  The increase in charge-offs was the related to a single commercial manufacturing relationship.  The business was sold in 2009 and resulted in a charge-off of $3.1 million, the majority of which was recorded in the first quarter of 2009.    Net charge-offs for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 were $8,000.  This was comprised of charge-offs of $62,000 offset by recoveries of $54,000.

Noninterest Income

Noninterest income decreased $518,000 to $2.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 from the same period in 2008.  This was primarily the result of an increase of $412,000 in fees received from the third-party mortgage program as we experienced an increased in mortgage referrals due to a decrease in interest rates.  This was partially offset by a decrease in net checking processing fee income of $187,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2009, primarily due to a decrease in overdraft fee income.  In addition, income from bank-owned life insurance (“BOLI”) increased $83,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2009.

The nine months ended September 30, 2009 includes a net loss on the sale of securities of $565,000 compared to a net gain of $805,000 for the same period in 2008.  We incurred losses on the sale of securities of $2.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2009, due to a loss on the sale of a single security.  The credit quality of the security had deteriorated and management opted to sell it in the third quarter of 2009.  The loss was partially offset by gains on the sale of other securities of $1.6 million, for the nine months ended September 30, 2009.

The nine months ended September 30, 2009 includes net impairment losses of $186,000, compared to net impairment losses of $961,000 for the same period in 2008.  The 2009 impairment was on a single collateralized mortgage obligation and was recognized in the third quarter of 2009.  The 2008 impairment loss was primarily on preferred stock issued by Freddie Mac, which was placed into conservatorship by the United States Treasury in September 2008.

Noninterest Expense

Noninterest expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 was $19.5 million, compared to $17.3 million for the same period in 2008.   Salaries and benefits increased $1.0 to $11.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 from $10.8 million for the same period in 2008.  Expenses related to the defined benefit pension plan increased $540,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2009.  The increase was due to a decline in the value of assets held by the pension plan.  Expenses related to share-based compensation increased $387,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2009.  The increase in share-based compensation was primarily due to accelerated vesting of share-based compensation in the first quarter of 2009 for certain employees who were retirement eligible.

FDIC insurance expense increased $885,000 to $950,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 from $65,000 for the same period in 2008.  The six months ended June 30, 2009 includes the accrual of $453,000 for a special assessment that was imposed upon all banks at June 30, 2009.

Income Taxes

For the nine months ended September 30, 2009, we had a tax provision of $804,000 as compared to $2.4 million for the same period in 2008.  The effective tax rate was 18.6% for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 and 28.1% for the same period in 2008.  The decrease in effective tax rate from September 30, 2008 is due primarily to additional provision for loan loss expense recorded in the first quarter of 2009 reducing pre-tax income while maintaining the same level of tax-advantaged income such as BOLI and tax-exempt municipal obligations.

 
33

 

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

The term “liquidity” refers to our ability to generate adequate amounts of cash to fund loan originations, loan purchases, withdrawals of deposits and operating expenses.  Our primary sources of liquidity are deposits, scheduled amortization and prepayments of loan principal and mortgage-backed securities, maturities and calls of securities and funds provided by operations.  We also can borrow funds from the FHLB based on eligible collateral of loans and securities.  Our maximum additional borrowing capacity from the FHLB at September 30, 2009 was $96.2 million.

Liquidity management is both a daily and long-term function of business management.  The measure of a company’s liquidity is its ability to meet its cash commitments at all times with available cash or by conversion of other assets to cash at a reasonable price.  Loan repayments and maturing investment securities are a relatively predictable source of funds.  However, deposit flow, calls of securities and repayments of loans and mortgage-backed securities are strongly influenced by interest rates, general and local economic conditions and competition in the marketplace.  These factors reduce the predictability of the timing of these sources of funds.  Management believes that we have sufficient liquidity to meet its current operating needs.

At September 30, 2009, we exceeded each of its applicable regulatory capital requirements.  As of September 30, 2009, the most recent notification from the Office of Thrift Supervision (the “OTS”) categorized us as “well capitalized” under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action.  To be categorized as “well capitalized” we must maintain minimum total risk-based, Tier 1 risk based and Tier 1 leverage ratios as set forth in the following table.  There are no conditions or events since that notification that management believes have changed our category.  Our actual capital ratios of September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008 are also presented in the following table.

  
Actual
  
Minimum For Capital
Adequacy Purpose
  
Minimum To Be Well
Capitalized Under Prompt
Corrective Action Provisions
 
  
Amount
  
Ratio
  
Amount
  
Ratio
  
Amount
  
Ratio
 
  
(Dollars in thousands)
 
September 30, 2009
                  
Total Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets):
                
Consolidated
 $267,162   35.14% $60,829   8.00%  N/A   - 
Bank
  232,827   30.91   60,256   8.00  $75,320   10.00%
Tier 1 Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets):
                     
Consolidated
  259,305   34.10   30,414   4.00   N/A   - 
Bank
  225,926   30.00   30,128   4.00   45,192   6.00 
Tier 1 Capital (to Adjusted Total Assets):
                     
Consolidated
  259,305   20.55   50,463   4.00   N/A   - 
Bank
  225,926   18.35   49,250   4.00   61,562   5.00 
Tangible Equity (to Tangible Assets):
                        
Consolidated
  N/A   -   N/A   -   N/A   - 
Bank
  225,926   18.35   18,469   1.50   N/A   - 
                         
December 31, 2008
                        
Total Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets):
                     
Consolidated
 $276,857   42.56% $52,042   8.00%  N/A   - 
Bank
  226,314   35.55   50,930   8.00  $63,662   10.00%
Tier 1 Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets):
                     
Consolidated
  268,725   41.31   26,021   4.00   N/A   - 
Bank
  219,744   34.52   25,465   4.00   38,197   6.00 
Tier 1 Capital (to Adjusted Total Assets):
                     
Consolidated
  268,725   23.97   44,836   4.00   N/A   - 
Bank
  219,744   20.51   42,854   4.00   53,567   5.00 
Tangible Equity (to Tangible Assets):
                        
Consolidated
  N/A   -   N/A   -   N/A   - 
Bank
  219,744   20.51   16,070   1.50   N/A   - 

 
34

 
 
We also have outstanding, at any time, a significant number of commitments to extend credit and provide financial guarantees to third parties.  These arrangements are subject to strict credit control assessments.  Guarantees specify limits to our obligations.  Because many commitments and almost all guarantees expire without being funded in whole or in part, the contract amounts are not estimates of future cash flows.  We are obligated under leases for certain of its branches and equipment.  A summary of lease obligations and credit commitments at September 30, 2009 follows:

        
After
1 Year
  
After
3 Years
       
  
Within
     
But Within
  
But Within
  
After
    
  
1 Year
     
3 Years
  
5 Years
  
5 Years
  
Total
 
  
(In thousands)
 
                   
Lease Obligations
                  
Operating lease obligations
 $515     $937  $799  $10,369  $12,620 
                        
Borrowings and Debt
                       
Federal Home Loan Bank
  86,000      65,800   16,650   -   168,450 
Securities sold under
                       
agreements to repurchase
  24,906      -   42,800   38,500   106,206 
Total borrowings and debt
  110,906      65,800   59,450   38,500   274,656 
                        
Credit Commitments
                       
Available lines of credit
  64,563      -   -   17,427   81,990 
Other loan commitments
  20,014   -   -   1,917   -   21,931 
Letters of credit
  3,944       -   -   505   4,449 
Total credit commitments
  88,521       -   1,917   17,932   108,370 
                         
  $199,942      $66,737  $62,166  $66,801  $395,646 

OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

We do not have any off-balance sheet arrangements that have or are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on our financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources that is material to investors.

ITEM 3: QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Quantitative measures established by regulation to ensure capital adequacy require us to maintain minimum amounts and ratios (set forth in the table above) of total and Tier I capital to risk weighted assets and to adjusted total assets.  Management believes, as of September 30, 2009, that we met all capital adequacy requirements to which it was subject.  As of September 30, 2009, the most recent notification from the OTS categorized us as “well capitalized” under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action.

Management uses a simulation model to monitor interest rate risk.  This model reports the net interest income at risk primarily under seven different interest rate environments.  Specifically, net interest income is measured in one scenario that assumes no change in interest rates, and six scenarios where interest rates increase 100, 200, and 300 basis points, and decrease 100, 200, and 300 basis points immediately following the current consolidated financial statements.  Income from tax-exempt assets is calculated on a fully taxable equivalent basis.  Management believes that the risk associated with a 200 or 300 basis point drop in interest rates is mitigated by the already historically low rate environment.

 
35

 

The changes in interest income and interest expense due to changes in interest rates reflect the rate sensitivity of our interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities.  For example, in a rising interest rate environment, the interest income from an adjustable rate loan is likely to increase depending on its repricing characteristics while the interest income from a fixed rate loan would not increase until the funds were repaid and loaned out at a higher interest rate.

The table below sets forth as of September 30, 2010 the estimated changes in net interest and dividend income that would result from incremental changes in interest rates over the applicable twelve-month period.

For the Twelve Months Ending September 30, 2010
 
Changes in Interest Rates
(Basis Points)
 
Net Interest and
Dividend Income
  
% Change
 
   
(Dollars in thousands)
    
300
  33,910   24.7%
200
  31,905   17.3%
100
  28,827   6.0%
   0
  27,203   0.0%
-100
  23,267   -14.5%
-200
  18,950   -30.3%
-300
  16,875   -38.0%

Management believes that there have been no significant changes in market risk since September 30, 2009.

The income simulation analysis was based upon a variety of assumptions.  These assumptions include, but are not limited to, asset mix, prepayment speeds, the timing and level of interest rates, and the shape of the yield curve.  As market conditions vary from the assumptions in the income simulation analysis, actual results will differ.  As a result, the income simulation analysis does not serve as a forecast of net interest income, nor do the calculations represent any actions that management may undertake in response to changes in interest rates.

ITEM 4: CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)), as of the end of the period covered by this report.  Based upon the evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the disclosure controls and procedures were effective, to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports we file and submit under the Exchange Act is (i) recorded, processed, summarized and reported as and when required and (ii) accumulated and communicated to our management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely discussion regarding required disclosure.

There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting identified in connection with the evaluation that occurred during our last fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or that are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 
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PART II – OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

None.

ITEM 1A.
RISK FACTORS

For a summary of risk factors relevant to our operations, see Part 1, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” in our 2008 Annual Report on Form 10-K.  There are no material changes in the risk factors relevant to our operations, except as discussed below.

Stress on the Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) system may cause our results of operations and financial condition to be adversely affected.

In recent months, the financial media has disclosed that the nation’s FHLB system may be under stress due to deterioration in the financial markets, particularly in relation to valuation of mortgage securities. Several of the FHLBs have announced impairment charges of these and other assets and, as such, their capital positions have deteriorated to the point that they have or may suspend dividend payments to their members. We are a member of the FHLB of Boston (“FHLBB”).  In the first quarter of 2009, the FHLBB notified its members of its focus on preserving capital in response to the ongoing market volatility. That notice outlined that actions taken by the FHLBB included an excess stock repurchase moratorium, an increased retained earnings target, and suspension of its quarterly dividend payment. If there are any further developments that cause the value of our stock investment in the FHLBB to become impaired, we would be required to write down the value of its investment, which in turn could affect our net income and stockholders’ equity.  At September 30, 2009, our investment in FHLBB stock was $9.8 million.

ITEM 2.
UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

The following table sets forth information with respect to purchases made by us of our common stock during the three months ended September 30, 2009.

Period
 
Total number
of shares
purchased
  
Average price
paid per share
($)
  
Total number of
shares purchased
as part of publicly
announced
programs
  
Maximum
number of shares
that may yet be
purchased under
the program (1)
 
             
July 1 - 31, 2009
  -   -   -   1,698,706 
                 
August 1 - 31, 2009
  1,053   8.99   1,053   1,697,653 
                 
September 1 - 30, 2009
  301,563   8.93   301,563   1,396,090 
                 
Total
  302,616   8.93   302,616   1,396,090 

(1)
In January 2008, the Board of Directors voted to authorize the commencement of a repurchase program (“Repurchase Program”) authorizing the Company to repurchase up to 3,194,000 shares, or ten percent of its outstanding shares of common stock. The Repurchase Program will continue until it is completed. The repurchases may be made from time to time at the discretion of management of the Company.
 
There were no sales by us of unregistered securities during the three months ended September 30, 2009.

 
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ITEM 3.
DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES

None.

ITEM 4.
SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

None

ITEM 5.
OTHER INFORMATION

None.

ITEM 6.
EXHIBITS

The following exhibits are furnished with this report:

  2.1
 
Amended and Restated Plan of Conversion and Stock Issuance of Westfield Mutual Holding Company, Westfield Financial, Inc. and Westfield Bank.(1)
   
  3.1
 
Articles of Organization of Westfield Financial, Inc. (2)
   
  3.2
 
Bylaws of Westfield Financial, Inc. (2)
   
  4.1
 
Form of Stock Certificate of Westfield Financial, Inc. (1)
   
31.1
 
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002*
   
31.2
 
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002*
   
32.1
 
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002*
   
32.2
 
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002*
 

  *           Filed herewith.

(1)
Incorporated by reference to the Registration Statement No. 333-137024 on Form S-1 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 31, 2006, as amended.
(2)
Incorporated by reference to the Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 5, 2007.

 
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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 
Westfield Financial, Inc.
 
(Registrant)
  
 
By:
/s/ James C. Hagan
  
James C. Hagan
  
President and Chief Executive Officer
  
 
By:
/s/ Leo R. Sagan, Jr.
  
Leo R. Sagan, Jr.
  
Vice President/Chief Financial Officer
 
November 5, 2009

 
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