10-Q 1 form10-q.htm SEPTEMBER 10Q FILING September 10q Filing


FORM 10-Q
 
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
þ
Quarterly Report Under Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 for the Quarterly Period Ended September 30, 2005
or
¨
Transition Report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 for the Transition Period from _____________ to ___________
 
Commission File Number: 0-27384

 
CAPITAL CORP OF THE WEST
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
 

 
California
 
77-0405791
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
 
 
IRS Employer ID Number
 

 
550 West Main, Merced, CA 95340
(Address of principal executive offices)
 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (209) 725-2200

Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report: Not applicable

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 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes þ No ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes þ No ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ¨ No þ

The number of shares outstanding of the registrant’s common stock, no par value, as of September 30, 2005 was 10,543,205. No shares of preferred stock, no par value, were outstanding at September 30, 2005.

-1-


Table of Contents

PART I. -- FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 

PART II. -- OTHER INFORMATION
 
 
-2-

 
Consolidated Balance Sheets
(Unaudited)
   
(Unaudited)
September 30, 2005
 
 
December 31, 2004
 
(Dollars in thousands)
     
Assets
         
Cash and noninterest-bearing deposits in other banks
 
$
51,916
 
$
40,454
 
Federal funds sold
   
4,760
   
17,365
 
Time deposits at other financial institutions
   
350
   
3,350
 
Investment securities available for sale, at fair value
   
237,792
   
269,189
 
Investment securities held to maturity at cost, fair value of $182,864 and $168,265 at September 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004
   
183,779
   
166,987
 
Loans, net of allowance for loan losses of $14,598 and $13,605 at
September 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004
   
1,012,633
   
871,488
 
Interest receivable
   
6,613
   
5,979
 
Premises and equipment, net
   
26,725
   
22,426
 
Goodwill
   
1,405
   
1,405
 
Other intangibles
   
35
   
69
 
Cash value of life insurance
   
31,525
   
28,362
 
Investment in housing tax credit limited partnerships
   
8,217
   
8,623
 
Other assets
   
15,334
   
12,750
 
               
Total assets
 
$
1,581,084
 
$
1,448,447
 
               
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
             
Deposits:
             
Noninterest-bearing demand
 
$
288,791
 
$
262,315
 
Negotiable orders of withdrawal
   
189,776
   
170,870
 
Savings
   
372,761
   
360,319
 
Time, under $100,000
   
210,446
   
193,913
 
Time, $100,000 and over
   
226,734
   
166,740
 
Total deposits
   
1,288,508
   
1,154,157
 
               
Borrowed funds
   
145,149
   
164,119
 
Junior subordinated debentures
   
16,496
   
16,496
 
Accrued interest, taxes and other liabilities
   
12,952
   
10,194
 
Total liabilities
   
1,463,105
   
1,344,966
 
               
Preferred stock, no par value; 10,000,000 shares authorized; None outstanding
   
-
   
-
 
Common stock, no par value; 54,000,000 shares authorized; 10,543,205 and 10,429,754 issued & outstanding at September 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004
   
58,982
   
57,139
 
Retained earnings
   
60,194
   
45,981
 
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income
   
(1,197
)
 
361
 
               
Total shareholders’ equity
   
117,979
   
103,481
 
               
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
 
$
1,581,084
 
$
1,448,447
 
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.


Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income
(Unaudited)
 
   
For Three Months
 
For Nine Months
 
   
Ended September 30,
 
Ended September 30,
 
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
 
2005
 
2004
 
2005
 
2004
 
Interest income:
                 
Interest and fees on loans
 
$
19,106
 
$
13,918
 
$
51,572
 
$
40,657
 
Interest on deposits with other financial institutions
   
2
   
1
   
17
   
5
 
Interest on investments held to maturity:
                         
Taxable
   
1,065
   
563
   
3,243
   
1,728
 
Non-taxable
   
900
   
554
   
2,492
   
1,546
 
Interest on investments available for sale:
                         
Taxable
   
2,384
   
2,496
   
7,703
   
7,734
 
Non-taxable
   
11
   
11
   
33
   
32
 
Interest on federal funds sold
   
19
   
44
   
91
   
85
 
Total interest income
   
23,487
   
17,587
   
65,151
   
51,787
 
 
                         
Interest expense:
                         
Interest on negotiable orders of withdrawal
   
102
   
18
   
160
   
50
 
Interest on savings deposits
   
1,406
   
772
   
3,515
   
2,290
 
Interest on time deposits, under $100
   
1,578
   
1,129
   
4,248
   
3,264
 
Interest on time deposits, $100 and over
   
1,743
   
869
   
4,196
   
2,678
 
Interest on junior subordinated debentures
   
327
   
272
   
972
   
801
 
Interest on borrowed funds
   
1,364
   
1,196
   
4,152
   
3,428
 
Total interest expense
   
6,520
   
4,256
   
17,243
   
12,511
 
                           
Net interest income
   
16,967
   
13,331
   
47,908
   
39,276
 
Provision for loan losses
   
1,035
   
879
   
1,356
   
2,183
 
Net interest income after provision for loan losses
   
15,932
   
12,452
   
46,552
   
37,093
 
                           
Noninterest income:
                         
Service charges on deposit accounts
   
1,554
   
1,641
   
4,447
   
4,655
 
Increase in cash surrender value of life insurance policies
   
310
   
271
   
770
   
767
 
Other
   
802
   
707
   
2,458
   
2,228
 
Total noninterest income
   
2,666
   
2,619
   
7,675
   
7,650
 
                           
Noninterest expenses:
                         
Salaries and related benefits
   
5,538
   
4,976
   
16,748
   
15,470
 
Premises and occupancy
   
1,205
   
990
   
3,256
   
2,533
 
Equipment
   
1,035
   
789
   
2,936
   
2,361
 
Professional fees
   
418
   
335
   
1,620
   
1,103
 
Supplies
   
236
   
222
   
808
   
622
 
Marketing
   
231
   
281
   
855
   
781
 
Intangible amortization
   
11
   
167
   
34
   
500
 
Other
   
1,626
   
1,286
   
5,053
   
4,327
 
Total noninterest expenses
   
10,300
   
9,046
   
31,310
   
27,697
 
                           
Income before provision for income taxes
   
8,298
   
6,025
   
22,917
   
17,046
 
Provision for income taxes
   
2,845
   
2,042
   
7,350
   
5,539
 
Net income
 
$
5,453
 
$
3,983
 
$
15,567
 
$
11,507
 
Comprehensive income:
                         
Unrealized (loss) gain on securities arising during the period
   
(1,071
)
 
2,087
   
(1,558
)
 
(697
)
Comprehensive income
 
$
4,382
 
$
6,070
 
$
14,009
 
$
10,810
 
Basic earnings per share
 
$
0.52
 
$
0.38
 
$
1.49
 
$
1.12
 
Diluted earnings per share
 
$
0.50
 
$
0.37
 
$
1.44
 
$
1.08
 
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.Capital Corp of the West


(Unaudited)
   
Common Stock
     
Accumulated Other
     
(Amounts in thousands)
 
Number of Shares
 
Amounts
 
Retained Earnings
 
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net
 
Total
 
                       
Balance, December 31, 2004
   
10,430
 
$
57,139
 
$
45,981
 
$
361
 
$
103,481
 
                                 
Exercise of stock options, net of tax benefit of $394
   
101
   
1,543
               
1,543
 
                                 
Issuance of shares pursuant to 401K and ESOP plans
   
12
   
300
               
300
 
                                 
Net change in fair market value of investment securities, net of tax benefit of $1,128
                     
(1,558
)
 
(1,558
)
                                 
Cash dividends
               
(1,354
)
       
(1,354
)
                                 
Net income
               
15,567
         
15,567
 
                                 
Balance, September 30, 2005
   
10,543
 
$
58,982
 
$
60,194
 
$
(1,197
)
$
117,979
 
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements Capital Corp of the West


(Unaudited)
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Nine months ended
September 30,
2005
 
Nine months ended
September 30,
2004
 
Operating activities:
         
Net income
 
$
15,567
 
$
11,507
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
             
Provision for loan losses
   
1,356
   
2,183
 
Depreciation, amortization and accretion, net
   
5,571
   
4,846
 
Noncash earnings from bank owned life insurance
   
(770
)
 
(767
)
Death benefit income from bank owned life insurance
   
539
   
-
 
Net (increase) decrease in interest receivable & other assets
   
(2,732
)
 
87
 
Net increase (decrease) in accrued interest payable & other liabilities
   
2,758
   
(1,803
)
Net cash provided by operating activities
   
22,289
   
16,053
 
               
Investing activities:
             
Investment securities purchases - available for sale securities
   
(53,282
)
 
(57,719
)
Investment securities purchases - held to maturity securities
   
(28,996
)
 
(31,807
)
Proceeds from maturities of available for sale investment securities
   
51,434
   
47,951
 
Proceeds from maturities of held to maturity investment securities
   
12,204
   
8,228
 
Maturity of time deposits at other financial institutions
   
3,000
   
-
 
Proceeds from sales of available for sale securities
   
29,537
   
15,975
 
Proceeds from sales of loans
   
1,606
   
2,480
 
Net increase in loans
   
(146,315
)
 
(98,626
)
Purchases of premises and equipment
   
(6,097
)
 
(4,721
)
Net purchases of bank owned life insurance
   
(2,393
)
 
(3,157
)
Net cash used in investing activities
   
(139,302
)
 
(121,396
)
               
Financing activities:
             
Net increase in demand, NOW and savings deposits
   
57,824
   
55,217
 
Net increase in certificates of deposit
   
76,527
   
3,626
 
Net (repayments) proceeds from other borrowings
   
(18,970
)
 
47,342
 
Payment of cash dividends
   
(1,354
)
 
(864
)
Issuance of shares pursuant to 401K and ESOP plans
   
300
   
624
 
Exercise of stock options
   
1,543
   
1,720
 
Net cash provided by financing activities
   
115,870
   
107,665
 
               
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents
   
(1,143
)
 
2,322
 
               
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
   
57,819
   
45,482
 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
 
$
56,676
 
$
47,804
 
               
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow activity:
             
Interest paid
 
$
17,050
 
$
11,501
 
Income tax payments
   
5,275
   
7,561
 
Income tax benefit from stock options
   
394
   
587
 
Supplemental disclosure of noncash investing
and financing activities:
             
Investment securities and swaps unrealized losses, net of tax
 
$
(1,558
)
$
(697
)
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements


Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
As of September 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004 and for the
Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2005 and 2004
(Unaudited)

GENERAL - COMPANY

Capital Corp of the West (the “Company” or “Capital Corp”) is a bank holding company incorporated under the laws of the State of California on April 26, 1995. On November 1, 1995, the Company became registered as a bank holding company, and is the holder of all of the capital stock of County Bank (the “Bank”). The Company's primary asset is the Bank and the Bank is the Company's primary source of income. The Company’s securities consist of 54,000,000 shares of authorized common stock, no par value, and 10,000,000 shares of authorized preferred stock. As of September 30, 2005 there were 10,543,205 common shares outstanding. There were no preferred shares outstanding. The Bank has three wholly owned subsidiaries, Merced Area Investment & Development, Inc. ("MAID"), County Asset Advisors ("CAA"), and County Investment Trust (“REIT”). CAA is currently inactive. The Company also has two unconsolidated trusts, County Statutory Trust and County Statutory Trust II (the “Trusts”). In the second quarter of 2002, the Company purchased Regency Investment Advisors, Inc (“RIA”). RIA was sold in October 2004. The Company has one wholly owned subsidiary, Capital West Group, Inc. (“CWG”). CWG is currently inactive. All references herein to the "Company" include the Company, the Company’s subsidiaries, the Bank and the Bank's subsidiaries, unless the context otherwise requires.

GENERAL - BANK

The Bank was organized on August 1, 1977, as County Bank of Merced, a California state banking corporation. The Bank commenced operations on December 22, 1977. In November 1992, the Bank changed its legal name to County Bank. The Bank’s securities consist of one class of Common Stock, no par value which is wholly owned by the Company. The Bank’s deposits are insured under the Federal Deposit Insurance Act by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) up to applicable limits stated therein. The Bank is a member of the Federal Reserve system.

INDUSTRY AND MARKET AREA

The Bank engages in general commercial banking business primarily in Fresno, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, San Francisco, San Joaquin, Stanislaus and Tuolomne counties. The Bank has twenty full service branch offices; two of which are located in Merced with the branch located in downtown Merced currently serving as both a branch and as administrative headquarters. There are branch offices in Atwater, Dos Palos, Hilmar, Livingston, Los Banos, Madera, Mariposa, San Francisco, Sonora, Stockton, two offices in Modesto, four in Fresno and two offices in Turlock. The Bank also has a loan production office in Sacramento, California. The Bank’s administrative headquarters provides accommodations for all of its not banking activity. 

 
OTHER FINANCIAL NOTES

All adjustments which in the opinion of Management are necessary for a fair presentation of the Company’s financial position at September 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004 and the results of operations for the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2005 and 2004, and the statements of cash flows for the nine months ended September 30, 2005 and 2004 have been included. The interim results for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2005 are not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for the full year. These financial statements, notes and other information should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and the notes included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004.

The accompanying unaudited financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, instructions to Form 10-Q and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X.

Basic earnings per share (EPS) is computed by dividing net income available to shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share is computed by dividing net income available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period plus potential common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock or resulted in the issuance of common stock that then shared in the earnings of the Company. Earnings per share data is adjusted for the effect of the nine for five stock split announced on March 29, 2005 with a distribution date of April 29, 2005.

The following table provides a reconciliation of the numerator and denominator of the basic and diluted earnings per share computation of the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2005 and 2004:

   
For The Three Months Ended September 30,
 
For The Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
 
2005
 
2004
 
2005
 
2004
 
Basic EPS computation:
                 
Net income
 
$
5,453
 
$
3,983
 
$
15,567
 
$
11,507
 
Average common shares outstanding
   
10,506
   
10,376
   
10,480
   
10,292
 
Basic EPS
 
$
0.52
 
$
0.38
 
$
1.49
 
$
1.12
 
                           
Diluted EPS Computations:
                         
Net income
 
$
5,453
 
$
3,983
 
$
15,567
 
$
11,507
 
Average common shares outstanding
   
10,506
   
10,376
   
10,480
   
10,293
 
Effect of stock options
   
342
   
337
   
329
   
373
 
     
10,848
   
10,713
   
10,809
   
10,666
 
Diluted EPS
 
$
0.50
 
$
0.37
 
$
1.44
 
$
1.08
 
                           
 

INTANGIBLE ASSETS

The Company has intangible assets consisting of core deposit premiums and goodwill. Core deposit premiums are amortized using an accelerated method over a period of ten years. Intangible assets related to goodwill have not been amortized after December 31, 2001 but are reviewed periodically for potential impairment. During the third quarter of 2005, management determined there had been no impairment of goodwill. As of September 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004, the Company had unamortized core deposit premiums of $35,000 and $69,000, respectively. Amortization of core deposit premiums and other intangibles was $34,000 and $500,000 nine months ended September 30, 2005 and 2004, respectively. Core deposit premiums of $460,000 and $4,340,000 were initially recorded as a result of purchasing deposits from Town and Country Finance and Thrift in July, 1996 and the purchase of three branches from Bank of America in December, 1997, respectively. The decrease in intangible amortization was related to the complete amortization of the premium paid on branch deposits purchased from Bank of America in December 1997.

BORROWED FUNDS

During the nine months ended September 30, 2005, the Bank decreased its short term borrowings. The borrowings were decreased at the Federal Home Loan Bank, Pacific Coast Bankers’ Bank, and Fed Funds purchased. The decrease in borrowings totaled $18,970,000 between December 31, 2004 and September 30, 2005.

STOCK COMPENSATION

The Company provides stock-based compensation to certain officers and directors. The Company uses the intrinsic value method to account for its stock option plans (in accordance with the provisions of Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25). Under this method, compensation expense is recognized for awards of options to purchase shares of common stock to employees under compensatory plans only if the fair market value of the stock at the option grant date (or other measurement date, if later) is greater than the amount the employee must pay to acquire the stock. Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation (SFAS 123) permits companies to continue using the intrinsic value method or to adopt a fair value based model to account for stock option plans. The fair value based method results in recognizing as expense over the vesting period the fair value of all stock-based awards on the date of grant. The Company has elected to continue to use the intrinsic value method.


Had compensation cost for the Company’s option plans been determined in accordance with SFAS 123, the Company’s net income and earnings per share would have been reduced to the pro forma amounts indicated as follows:
 
   
Three months ended September, 30
 
Nine months ended September 30,
 
(Dollars in thousands except per share amounts)
 
2005
 
2004
 
2005
 
2004
 
Net income:
                 
As reported
 
$
5,453
 
$
3,983
 
$
15,567
 
$
11,507
 
Less stock based compensation expense determined under fair value based method for all awards net of related taxes
   
(231
)
 
(191
)
 
(854
)
 
(698
)
Pro forma
 
$
5,222
 
$
3,792
 
$
14,713
 
$
10,809
 
                           
Basic earnings per share:
                         
As reported
 
$
0.52
 
$
0.38
 
$
1.49
 
$
1.12
 
Pro forma
 
$
0.49
 
$
0.37
 
$
1.40
 
$
1.05
 
                           
Diluted earnings per share:
                         
As reported
 
$
0.50
 
$
0.37
 
$
1.44
 
$
1.08
 
Pro forma
 
$
0.48
 
$
0.35
 
$
1.36
 
$
1.01
 

Compensation expense related to the issuance of stock options that would have been reported pursuant to Financial Accounting Standards No. 123 (Revised 2004) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2005 was $228,000 and $947,000 compared to $204,000 and $782,000 for the same three and nine months in 2004. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2005, the Company would have reported an additional tax expense of $3,000 and an additional tax benefit of $93,000, which compares to a tax benefit of $13,000 and $84,000 for the same periods in 2004 related to compensation expense from the issuance of stock options. Beginning January 1, 2006, stock option expense will be presented in the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income on a prospective basis in conformity with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123 (Revised 2004).
 
RECLASSIFICATIONS

Certain amounts previously reported in the 2004 financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the 2005 presentation. Additionally, in the first quarter of 2005, the Company reclassified the reserve for unfunded commitments from the allowance for losses to other liabilities, and reclassified the provision for unfunded commitments from the provision for loan losses to other noninterest expense. These reclassifications did not affect previously reported net income or total shareholders’ equity. Share and per share data for all periods have been adjusted to reflect the nine-for-five stock split which was effective on April 29, 2005 to shareholders of record on April 8, 2005.


Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In May 2003, Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Statement No. 150, Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments with Characteristics of both Liabilities and Equity. This Statement establishes standards for the classification and measurement of certain financial instruments with characteristics of both liabilities and equity. The Statement also includes required disclosures for financial instruments within its scope. For the Company, the Statement was effective for instruments entered into or modified after May 11, 2004 and otherwise was effective as of January 1, 2004 except for mandatorily redeemable financial instruments. For certain mandatorily redeemable instruments, the Statement was effective for the Company on January 1, 2005. The effective date has been deferred indefinitely for certain other types of mandatorily redeemable financial instruments. The Company does not currently have any financial instruments that are within the scope of this Statement.

In December 2003, the Accounting Standards Executive Committee of the AICPA issued Statement of Position No. 03-3 (“SOP 03-3”), Accounting for Certain Loans or Debt Securites Acquired in a Transfer. SOP 03-3 addresses the accounting for differences between the contractual cash flows and the cash flows expected to be collected from purchased loans or debt securities if those differences are attributable, in part, to credit quality. SOP 03-3 requires purchased loans and debt securities to be recorded initially at fair value based on the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected with no carryover of any valuation allowance previously recognized by the seller. Interest income should be recognized based on the effective yield determine by reference to the purchase price and cash flows expected to be collected. To the extent that the purchased loans or debt securities experience subsequent deterioration in credit quality, a valuation allowance must be established for the present value of any estimated future cash flows that will not be collected. However, if more cash flows subsequently are expected to be received than originally estimated, the effective yield is to be adjusted on a prospective basis. SOP 03-3 was effective for loans and debt securities acquired after December 31, 2004. Although the Company anticipates that the implementation of SOP 03-3 may require loan system and operational changes to track credit related losses on loans purchased starting in 2005, the Company experienced no significant effect on the consolidated financial statements.
 
In March 2004, the Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) Issue No. 03-1 “The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment and its Application to Certain Investments” consensus was published. Issue No. 03-1 contained new guidance effectively adopting the provisions of SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 59. In September 2004, the FASB delayed the requirement to record impairment losses under EITF 03-1. The disclosure requirements of EITF 03-1 remain in effect. Management of the Company has done an analysis of the impact of this accounting pronouncement, which is discussed in the section of this report entitled, Financial Condition. The Company does not expect the adoption of the final EITF will have a material impact of the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
In December 2004, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 123 (Revised 2004), Share-Based Payment. The statement requires that compensation cost relating to share-based payment transactions be recognized in financial statements and that this cost be measured based on the fair value of the equity or liability instruments issued. SFAS No. 123 (Revised 2004) covers a wide range of share-based compensation arrangements including share options, restricted share plans, performance-based awards, share appreciation rights, and employee share purchase plans. In April, 2005, the SEC deferred the required adoption date for this standard until January 1, 2006. The Company will adopt SFAS No 123 (Revised 2004) on January 1, 2006 and is currently evaluating the impact the adoption of the standard will have on the Company's results of operations. The impact on the third quarter and first nine months of 2004 and 2005 is discussed in the “Other Financial Notes” section of this report. SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 107, Share-Based Payment provides guidance that will assist issuers in their initial implementation of FASB Statement No. 123 (revised 2004), Share-Based Payment. The SEC staff expressed its views regarding the interaction between Statement 123(R) and certain SEC rules and regulations. SAB 107 also provides the staff’s views on the valuation of share-based payment arrangements for public companies.
 
In May 2005, the FASB issued SFAS No. 154 Accounting Changes and Error Corrections - a replacement of APB Opinion No. 20 and FASB Statement No. 3. The Statement requires retrospective application to prior periods’ financial statements of voluntary changes in accounting principle, unless it is impracticable to determine either the period - specific effects of the cumulative effect of the change. When it is impracticable to determine the period - specific effects of an accounting change on one or more individual prior periods presented, the new accounting principle is to be applied to the balances of assets and liabilities as of the beginning of the earliest period for which retrospective application is practicable, with a corresponding adjustment made to the opening balance of retained earnings or other components of equity for that period. If it is impracticable to determine the cumulative effect of applying a change in accounting principle, the new accounting principle is to be applied prospectively from the earliest date practicable. If retrospective application for all periods is impracticable, the method used to report the change and the reason that retrospective application is impracticable are to be disclosed. The Company does not expect the adoption of FASB No. 154 to have a significant effect on the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements.
 

Item 2. Management's Discussion And Analysis Of Financial Condition And Results Of Operations

The following Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations contains forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties and include information about possible or assumed future results of operations. Many possible events or factors could affect the future financial results and performance of the company. This could cause results or performance to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements. Words such as “expects,”“anticipates,”“believes,”“estimates,”“intends,”“plans,”“assumes,”“projects,”“predicts,”“forecasts,” and variations of such words and other similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions which are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecasted in, or implied by, such forward-looking statements.

Readers of the Company’s Form 10-Q should not rely solely on forward looking statements but must also consider all uncertainties and risks discussed throughout this Form 10-Q, as well as those discussed in the Company’s 2004 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 15, 2005. These statements are representative only on the date hereof, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements made herein. Some possible events or factors that could occur that may cause differences from expected results include the following: the Company’s loan growth is dependent on economic conditions, as well as various discretionary factors, such as decisions to sell, or purchase certain loans or loan portfolios; or sell or buy participations of loans; the quality and adequacy of management of our borrowers; industry, product and geographic concentrations and the mix of the loan portfolio. The rate of charge-offs and provision expense can be affected by local, regional and international economic and market conditions, concentrations of borrowers, industries, products and geographical conditions, the mix of the loan portfolio and management’s judgements regarding the collectibility of loans. Liquidity requirements may change as a result of fluctuations in assets and liabilities and off-balance sheet exposures, which will impact the capital and debt financing needs of the Company and the mix of funding sources. Decisions to purchase, hold, or sell securities are also dependent on liquidity requirements and market volatility, as well as on and off-balance sheet positions. Factors that may impact interest rate risk include local, regional and international economic conditions, levels, mix, maturities, yields or rates of assets and liabilities and the wholesale and retail funding sources of the Company.

The Company is also exposed to the potential of losses arising from adverse changes in market rates and prices which can adversely impact the value of financial products, including securities, loans, and deposits. In addition, the banking industry in general is subject to various monetary and fiscal policies and regulations, which include those determined by the Federal Reserve Board, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and state regulators, whose policies and regulations could affect the Company’s results.

Other factors that may cause actual results to differ from the forward-looking statements include the following: competition with other local and regional banks, savings and loan associations, credit unions and other nonbank financial institutions, such as investment banking firms, investment advisory firms, brokerage firms, mutual funds and insurance companies, as well as other entities which offer financial services; interest rate, market and monetary fluctuations; inflation; market volatility; general economic conditions; introduction and acceptance of new banking-related products, services and enhancements; fee pricing strategies, mergers and acquisitions and their integration into the Company, civil disturbances or terrorist threats or acts, or apprehension about the possible future occurrences or acts of this type, outbreak or escalation of hostilities in which the United States is involved, any declaration of war by the U.S. Congress or any other national or international calamity, crisis or emergency changes in laws and regulations, recently issued accounting pronouncements, government policies, regulations, and their enforcement (including Bank Secrecy Act-related matters, taxing statutes and regulations); restrictions on dividends that our Bank subsidiaries are allowed to pay the Company; the ability to satisfy requirements related to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and other regulation on internal control; and management’s ability to manage these and other risks. For additional information relating to the risks of the Company's business see "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K.


Critical accounting policies and estimates

The Company’s discussion and analysis of its financial condition and results of operations is based upon the Company’s consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The preparation of these financial statements requires the Company to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. On an on-going basis, the Company evaluates its estimates, including those related to the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses, intangible assets, valuation of deferred income taxes and contingencies. The Company bases its estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. (See caption “Allowance for Loan Losses” for a more detailed discussion). The critical accounting policies and accounting estimates are further discussed in Note 1 of the Company’s 2004 Annual Report.
 
The following discussion and analysis is designed to provide a better understanding of the significant changes and trends related to the Company and its subsidiaries' financial condition, operating results, asset and liability management, liquidity and capital resources and should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company and the Notes thereto.

 
Results Of Operations

The Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2005 Compared With The Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2004
 
OVERVIEW
 
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2005 the Company reported net income of $5,453,000 and $15,567,000, respectively. This compares to $3,983,000 and $11,507,000 for the same periods in 2004 and represents an increase of $1,470,000 or 37% and $4,060,000 or 35% respectively. Basic and fully diluted earnings per share were $0.52 and $0.50 for the three months ended September 30, 2005 and $1.49 and $1.44 for the nine months ended September 30, 2005. This compares to basic and fully diluted earnings per share of $0.38 and $0.37 for the three months ended September 30, 2004 and $1.12 and $1.08 for the nine months ended September 30, 2004. This represents an increase of $0.14 for basic earnings per share and $0.13 for fully diluted earnings per share for the three months ended September 30, 2004 and $0.37 and $0.36 for the nine months ended September 30, 2004. The basic and fully diluted earnings per share are reflective of the nine for five stock split that was announced in March, 2005, with a distribution date of April 29, 2005. The annualized return on average assets was 1.39% and 1.37% for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2005 compared to 1.21% and 1.20% for the same periods in 2004. The Company's annualized return on average equity was 18.84% and 18.77% for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2005 compared to 16.26% and 16.14% for the same time periods in 2004.
 
NET INTEREST INCOME
 
The Company's primary source of income is net interest income and is determined by the difference between interest income and fees derived from interest earning assets and interest paid on interest-bearing liabilities. Net interest income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2005 totaled $16,967,000 and $47,908,000, respectively. This represents an increase of $3,636,000 and $8,632,000 or 27% and 22% when compared to the $13,331,000 and $39,276,000 earned during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2004.
 
Total interest and fees on earning assets were $23,487,000 and $65,151,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2005, rising 34% or $5,900,000 for the three month period ended September 30, 2005 and rising 26% or $13,364,000 for the nine month period ended September 30, 2005 when compared to the $17,587,000 and $51,787,000 earned during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2004. Total interest income is affected by changes in the volume of, and rates earned on, interest earning assets. Interest earning assets consist primarily of loans, investment securities and federal funds sold. The increase in total interest income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2005 was primarily the result of both an increase in volume of interest earning assets and the interest rate earned on those assets. Average interest-earning assets for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2004 were $1,444,974,000 and $1,397,244,000 compared with $1,211,253,000 and $1,186,843,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2004, an increase of $233,721,000 or 19% and $210,401,000 or 18% during both time periods.
 
Interest expense is a function of the volume of and the rates paid on interest-bearing liabilities. Interest-bearing liabilities consist primarily of certain deposits and borrowed funds. Total interest expense was $6,520,000 and $17,243,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2005, compared with $4,256,000 and $12,511,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2004, an increase of $2,264,000 or 53% and $4,732,000 or 38%, respectively. The increase in total interest expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2005 was the result of an increase in the volume and rates paid on interest-bearing liabilities. Average interest-bearing liabilities were $1,154,247,000 and $1,120,036,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2005 compared with $989,592,000 and $976,482,000 for the same three and nine months in 2004, an increase of $164,655,000 and $143,554,000 or 17% and 15%. Average interest rates paid on interest-bearing liabilities were 2.24% for the three months and 2.06% for nine months ended September 30, 2005 compared with 1.71% for both the three and nine months ended Spetember 30, 2004, an increase in interest rates paid of 53 and 35 basis points. The increases were primarily the result of increased prevailing market interest rates and the repricing of maturing, lower yielding liabilities during the periods.
 
The increase in volume of both interest earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2005, was primarily the result of increased market penetration within our target markets which was accomplished by increasing the utilization of existing facilities and the addition of branches in Fresno, California. The Company did not launch any new, significant product types for 2004 and 2005.
 
The Company's taxable equivalent net interest margin, the ratio of net interest income to average interest earning assets, was 4.75% and 4.67% for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2005 compared with 4.45% and 4.49% for the same periods in 2004. Net interest margin provides a measurement of the Company's ability to employ funds profitably during the period being measured. The Company's increase in net interest margin in 2005 was primarily attributable to a gain of 86 and 51 basis points in the loan portfolio yield for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2005. Average gross loans, as a percentage of average interest earning assets, increased to 70% and 68% for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2005 as compared to 69% and 67% for the same time periods in 2004 an increase of 1% over both the three and nine months ended September 30, 2004.

 
AVERAGE BALANCES AND RATES EARNED AND PAID
 
The following table presents consolidated average balance sheet information for the Company, together with interest rates earned and paid on the various interest eaning assets and interest-bearing liabilities of its funds for each of the periods indicated. Nonaccruing loans are included in the calculation of the average balances of loans, but the nonaccrued interest on such loans is excluded.

AVERAGE BALANCE SHEET & ANALYSIS OF NET INTEREST EARNINGS
   
Three months ended
 
Three months ended
 
   
September 30, 2005
 
September 30, 2004
 
   
 
Average
Balance
 
Taxable
Equivalent
Interest
 
Taxable
Equivalent
Yield/rate
 
 
Average
Balance
 
Taxable
Equivalent Interest
 
Taxable
Equivalent Yield/rate
 
 (Dollars in thousands)  
 
 
Assets
                         
Federal funds sold
 
$
2,101
 
$
19
   
3.59
%
$
12,284
 
$
44
   
1.42
%
Time deposits at other financial institutions
   
350
   
2
   
2.27
   
350
   
1
   
1.13
 
Taxable investment securities (1)
   
338,311
   
3,474
   
4.07
   
311,199
   
3,083
   
3.93
 
Nontaxable investment securities (1)
   
95,153
   
1,205
   
5.02
   
57,373
   
750
   
5.19
 
Loans, gross: (2)
   
1,009,059
   
19,106
   
7.51
   
830,047
   
13,918
   
6.65
 
Total interest-earning assets
 
$
1,444,974
 
$
23,806
   
6.54
  $
1,211,253
  $
17,796
   
5.83
 
Allowance for loan losses
   
(13,968
)
             
(13,490
)
           
Cash and due from banks
   
46,720
               
41,569
             
Premises and equipment, net
   
25,860
               
19,367
             
Interest receivable and other assets
   
60,418
               
54,224
             
Total assets
 
$
1,564,004
             
$
1,312,923
             
                                       
Liabilities And Shareholders' Equity
                                     
Negotiable order of withdrawal
 
$
180,577
 
$
102
   
0.22
 
$
149,659
 
$
18
   
0.05
 
Savings deposits
   
371,188
   
1,406
   
1.50
   
348,290
   
772
   
0.88
 
Time deposits
   
430,752
   
3,321
   
3.06
   
351,454
   
1,998
   
2.26
 
Other borrowings
   
155,234
   
1,364
   
3.49
   
123,693
   
1,196
   
3.84
 
Subordinated Debentures
   
16,496
   
327
   
7.86
   
16,496
   
272
   
6.54
 
Total interest-bearing liabilities
   
1,154,247
   
6,520
   
2.24
   
989,592
   
4,256
   
1.71
 
                                       
Noninterest-bearing deposits
   
281,328
               
219,849
             
Accrued interest, taxes and other liabilities
   
12,660
               
5,502
             
Total liabilities
   
1,448,235
               
1,214,943
             
                                       
Total shareholders' equity
   
115,769
               
97,980
             
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity
 
$
1,564,004
             
$
1,312,923
             
                                       
Net interest income and margin (3)
       
$
17,286
   
4.75
%
     
$
13,540
   
4.45
%
 
(1)
Tax-equivalent adjustments included in the nontaxable investment securities portfolio are $294,000 and $185,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2005 and 2004. Tax equivalent adjustments included in the taxable investment securities created by the dividends received deduction were $25,000 and $24,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2005 and 2004. The tax rate used was 35%.
(2)
Amounts of interest earned included net loan fees of $787,000 and $578,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2005 and 2004, respectively.
(3)
Net interest margin is computed by dividing net interest income by total average interest-earning assets.


AVERAGE BALANCE SHEET & ANALYSIS OF NET INTEREST EARNINGS
   
Nine months ended
 
Nine months ended
 
   
September 30, 2005
 
September 30, 2004
 
   
 
Average
Balance
 
Taxable
Equivalent
Interest
 
Taxable
Equivalent
Yield/rate
 
 
Average
Balance
 
Taxable
Equivalent Interest
 
Taxable
Equivalent
Yield/rate
 
 (Dollars in thousands)  
 
 
Assets
                         
Federal funds sold
 
$
4,411
 
$
91
   
2.76
%
$
9,605
 
$
85
   
1.18
%
Time deposits at other financial institutions
   
855
   
17
   
2.66
   
350
   
5
   
1.90
 
Taxable investment securities (1)
   
356,963
   
11,043
   
4.14
   
323,864
   
9,543
   
3.93
 
Nontaxable investment securities (1)
   
87,993
   
3,344
   
5.08
   
53,027
   
2,096
   
5.27
 
Loans, gross: (2)
   
947,022
   
51,572
   
7.28
   
799,997
   
40,657
   
6.77
 
Total interest-earning assets
 
$
1,397,244
 
$
66,067
   
6.32
  $
1,186,843
  $
52,386
   
5.88
 
Allowance for loan losses
   
(13,658
)
             
(13,120
)
           
Cash and due from banks
   
43,495
               
40,135
             
Premises and equipment, net
   
24,465
               
18,100
             
Interest receivable and other assets
   
59,095
               
50,959
             
Total assets
 
$
1,510,641
             
$
1,282,917
             
                                       
Liabilities And Shareholders' Equity
                                     
Negotiable order of withdrawal
 
$
174,734
 
$
160
   
0.12
 
$
142,725
 
$
50
   
0.05
 
Savings deposits
   
363,763
   
3,515
   
1.29
   
347,091
   
2,290
   
0.88
 
Time deposits
   
398,930
   
8,444
   
2.83
   
354,831
   
5,942
   
2.23
 
Other borrowings
   
166,113
   
4,152
   
3.34
   
115,339
   
3,428
   
3.96
 
Subordinated Debentures
   
16,496
   
972
   
7.88
   
16,496
   
801
   
6.47
 
Total interest-bearing liabilities
   
1,120,036
   
17,243
   
2.06
   
976,482
   
12,511
   
1.71
 
                                       
Noninterest-bearing deposits
   
268,343
               
205,897
             
Accrued interest, taxes and other liabilities
   
11,657
               
5,497
             
Total liabilities
   
1,400,036
               
1,187,876
             
                                       
Total shareholders' equity
   
110,605
               
95,041
             
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity
 
$
1,510,641
             
$
1,282,917
             
                                       
Net interest income and margin (3)
       
$
48,824
   
4.67
%
     
$
39,875
   
4.49
%
 
(1)
Tax-equivalent adjustments included in the nontaxable investment securities portfolio are $819,000 and $333,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2005 and 2004. Tax equivalent adjustments included in the taxable investment securities created by a dividends received deduction were $97,000 and $81,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2005 and 2004. The tax rate used was 35%.
(2)
Amounts of interest earned included net loan fees of $2,209,000 and $1,515,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2005 and 2004, respectively.
(3)
Net interest margin is computed by dividing net interest income by total average interest-earning assets.

 
NET INTEREST INCOME CHANGES DUE TO VOLUME AND RATE
 
The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, a summary of the changes in average asset and liability balances and interest earned and interest paid resulting from changes in average asset and liability balances (volume) and changes in average interest rates and the total net change in interest income and expenses. The changes in interest due to both rate and volume have been allocated to volume and rate changes in proportion to the relationship of the absolute dollar amount of the change in each.

Net Interest Income Variance Analysis:

   
Three months ended
 
   
September 30, 2005 compared to September 30, 2004
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Volume
 
Rate
 
Total
 
Increase (decrease) in interest income:
             
Federal funds sold
 
$
(56
)
$
31
 
$
(25
)
Time deposits at other financial institutions
   
-
   
1
   
1
 
Taxable investment securities
   
276
   
115
   
391
 
Tax-exempt investment securities
   
479
   
(24
)
 
455
 
Loans
   
3,244
   
1,944
   
5,188
 
Total:
 
$
3,943
 
$
2,067
 
$
6,010
 
                     
Increase (decrease) in interest expense:
                   
Interest bearing demand
 
$
4
 
$
80
 
$
84
 
Savings deposits
   
54
   
580
   
634
 
Time deposits
   
513
   
810
   
1,323
 
Other borrowings
   
283
   
(115
)
 
168
 
Subordinated Debentures
   
-
   
55
   
55
 
Total:
 
$
854
 
$
1,410
 
$
2,264
 
                     
Increase in net interest income
 
$
3,089
 
$
657
 
$
3,746
 
 

   
Nine months ended
 
   
September 30, 2005 compared to September 30, 2004
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Volume
 
Rate
 
Total
 
Increase (decrease) in interest income:
             
Federal funds sold
 
$
(20
)
$
26
 
$
6
 
Time deposits at other financial institutions
   
9
   
3
   
12
 
Taxable investment securities
   
983
   
517
   
1,500
 
Tax-exempt investment securities
   
1,272
   
(24
)
 
1,248
 
Loans
   
7,738
   
3,177
   
10,915
 
Total:
 
$
9,982
 
$
3,699
 
$
13,681
 
                     
Increase (decrease) in interest expense:
                   
Interest bearing demand
 
$
13
 
$
97
 
$
110
 
Savings deposits
   
114
   
1,111
   
1,225
 
Time deposits
   
791
   
1,711
   
2,502
 
Other borrowings
   
798
   
(74
)
 
724
 
Subordinated Debentures
   
-
   
171
   
171
 
Total:
 
$
1,716
 
$
3,016
 
$
4,732
 
                     
Increase in net interest income
 
$
8,266
 
$
683
 
$
8,949
 
 
 
PROVISION FOR LOAN LOSSES
 
The provision for loan losses for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2005 was $1,035,000 and $1,356,000 compared with $879,000 and $2,183,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2004, an increase of $156,000 and a decrease of $827,000 or 18% and 38%. See "Allowance for Loan Losses" contained herein. As of September 30, 2005 the allowance for loan losses was $14,598,000 or 1.42% of total loans which compares to the allowance for loan losses of $13,605,000 or 1.54% of total loans as of December 31, 2004. At September 30, 2005, nonperforming assets totaled $2,111,000 or 0.13% of total assets, nonperforming loans totaled $2,051,000 or 0.20% of total loans and the allowance for loan losses totaled 712% of nonperforming loans. At December 31, 2004, nonperforming assets totaled $4,454,000 or 0.31% of total assets, nonperforming loans totaled $4,394,000 or 0.50% of total loans and the allowance for loan losses totaled 310% of nonperforming loans. The primary reason the provision for loan loss decreased in 2005 compared to 2004 is a lower volume of charged-off and nonperforming loans. The Company had a net recovery of $159,000 and a net charge-off of $156,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2005 and September 30, 2004, respectively. The increased recoveries in 2005 were realized in the commercial and agricultural portfolios. The Company's charge-offs, net of recoveries, were $363,000 and $903,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2005 and September 30, 2004, respectively. No assurance can be given that nonperforming loans will not increase or that the allowance for loan losses will be adequate to cover future losses inherent in the loan portfolio.
 
NONINTEREST INCOME
 
Noninterest income increased by $47,000 and $25,000 or 2% and less than 1% to $2,666,000 and $7,675,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2005 compared with $2,619,000 and $7,650,000 for the same periods during 2004. Service charges on deposit accounts decreased by $87,000 and $208,000 or 5% and 4% to $1,554,000 and $4,447,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2005 compared with $1,641,000 and $4,655,000 earned during for the same period in 2004. The decrease was primarily the result of demand deposit account growth obtained from existing customers in 2005 that resulted in larger balances per customer and a relatively smaller number of fee paying deposit customers. Also, the larger account balances reduced fees paid by deposit customers, especially commercial accounts that utilize account analysis to determine customer fees charged. Other noninterest income increased by $95,000 and $230,000 or 13% and 10% for the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2005 when compared to the same periods in 2004. The primary reason for the increased other noninterest income in the current year was the receipt of $539,000 in death benefits received from a bank owned life insurance policy on a retired executive manager during the first quarter of 2005.

NONINTEREST EXPENSE

Noninterest expenses increased by $1,254,000 and $3,613,000 or 14% and 13% to $10,300,000 and $31,310,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2005 compared with the $9,046,000 and $27,697,000 recorded during for the same periods in 2004. The primary components of noninterest expenses were salaries and related benefits, equipment expense, premises and occupancy expense, professional fees, marketing expense, supplies expense and other noninterest expenses.
 
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2005, salaries and related benefits increased by $562,000 and $1,278,000 or 11% and 8% to $5,538,000 and $16,748,000 from the $4,976,000 and $15,470,000 recorded for the same periods in 2004. The increase was primarily the result of normal salary progression and increased support staff used in operations and regulatory compliance support functions. Premises and occupancy expenses increased by $215,000 or 22% and $723,000 or 29% to $1,205,000 and $3,256,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2005 from $990,000 and $2,533,000 during the same periods in 2004. The primary reason for the increase in 2005 was the addition of a new customer support center in late 2004. Equipment expense increased by $246,000 and $575,000 or 31% and 24% to $1,035,000 and $2,936,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2005 from the $789,000 and $2,361,000 recorded during the same periods in 2004. The additional equipment expenses were primarily the result of branch and department equipment upgrades. When comparing the results of the three and nine months ended September 30, 2005 to the three and nine months ended September 30, 2004, professional fees increased by $83,000 or 25% for the three month period and increased $517,000 or 47% for the nine month period, supplies expense increased by $14,000 and $186,000 or 6% and 30%, marketing expenses decreased by $50,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2005 and increased $74,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2005 or 18% and 9%, goodwill and intangible amortization expense decreased by $156,000 and $466,000 or 93% for both periods, and other noninterest expenses increased $340,000 and $726,000 or 26% and 17% from 2004 levels. Increased professional fees in 2005 were attributable to the costs associated with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and Bank Secrecy Act (“BSA”) compliance efforts and increased internal and external audit expenses. The overall increase in marketing expenses was primarily the result of increased advertising expenses. The decreased marketing expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2005 when compared to the same period in 2004 were the result of decreased media marketing expenditures. The increase in supplies expenses was related to increased administrative supplies for the Company’s new customer support center. The decrease in intangible amortization expense was related to the complete amortization of the premium paid on branch deposits purchased from Bank of America in December 1997. The increase in other noninterest expenses was primarily the result of increased spending for telecommunications expenses related to the Company’s customer support center.
 
PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES
 
The Company recorded an increase of $803,000 and $1,811,000 or 39% and 33% in the income tax provision to $2,845,000 and $7,350,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2005 compared to the $2,042,000 and $5,539,000 recorded for the same periods in 2004. In 2005, the Company recorded an effective tax rate of 34% and 32% for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2005. This compares to an effective tax rate of 34%and 32% for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2004. The effective tax rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2005 was equivalent to the rate recorded during the same period in 2004 primarily due to the receipt of $539,000 in nontaxable bank owned life insurance death benefits during the first quarter of 2005, and increased nontaxable municipal interest income in 2005 that was offset by increased fully taxable income in 2005 over 2004 levels. The increased effective tax rate for the third quarter of 2005 was primarily the result of increased fully taxable income coupled with lower than anticipated Enterprise Zone related tax credits in the Company’s 2004 state tax return that was filed in September, 2005.
 
Financial Condition
 
Total assets at September 30, 2005 were $1,581,084,000, an increase of $132,637,000 or 9% compared with total assets of $1,448,447,000 at December 31, 2004. Net loans were $1,012,633,000 at September 30, 2005, an increase of $141,145,000 or 16% compared with net loans of $871,488,000 at December 31, 2004. Deposits were $1,288,508,000 at September 30, 2005, an increase of $134,351,000 or 12% compared with deposits of $1,154,157,000 at December 31, 2004. The increase in total assets of the Company between December 31, 2004 and September 30, 2005 was primarily funded by an increase in customer deposits. Cash inflows generated from the increased deposits were primarily used to fund growth in the loan portfolio, and to fund increased expenditures on branch and support operations facilities and equipment.
 
Total shareholders' equity was $117,979,000 at September 30, 2005, an increase of $14,498,000 or 14% from $103,481,000 at December 31, 2004. The growth was primarily due to retained earnings.
 
OFF-BALANCE SHEET COMMITMENTS
 
The following table shows the distribution of the Company's undisbursed loan commitments at the dates indicated.

   
September 30,
 
December 31,
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
2005
 
2004
 
Letters of credit
 
$
16,610
 
$
13,875
 
Commitments to extend credit
   
462,402
   
393,039
 
Total
 
$
479,012
 
$
406,914
 
               

In 2005, the Company reclassified the reserve for unfunded lending commitments from the allowance for loan losses to other liabilities. The reclassifications had no effect on the income before provision for income taxes as reported. The reclassified allowance for loan losses for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2005 and 2004, and for the year ended December 31, 2004, is presented on page 21 and 22 and the reserve for unfunded commitments is presented on page 24.

 
CASH VALUE OF LIFE INSURANCE
 
The Bank maintains certain cash surrender value life insurance policies to help offset the cost of employee benefit programs. They are also associated with a salary continuation plan for the Company's executive management and deferred retirement benefits for participating board members. Income from these policies is reflected in noninterest income. At September 30, 2005, the Bank held $31,525,000 in cash surrender value life insurance, an increase of $3,163,000 from the $28,362,000 maintained at December 31, 2004.
 
INVESTMENT IN HOUSING TAX CREDIT LIMITED PARTNERSHIPS
 
The Bank invests in housing tax credit limited partnerships to help meet the Bank’s Community Reinvestment Act low income housing investment requirements and to obtain federal and state income tax credits. These partnerships provide the funding for low-income housing projects that might not otherwise be created. The Bank had invested $11,024,000 in these partnerships as of September 30, 2005 and $10,901,000 as of the year ended December 31, 2004, which represents an increase of $123,000 or 1%. The Company does not anticipate making additional significant investments in these partnerships during the remainder of 2005.

INVESTMENT SECURITIES

At September 30, 2005 equity securities included $14.7 million of preferred stock issued by the Federal National Mortgage Association and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation. These issues of preferred stock are tied to various short term indexes ranging from the one year LIBOR interest rate to the five year U.S. Treasury rate. These securities have investment grade credit ratings from the securities rating agencies and are callable by the issuer at par. At September 30, 2005, the unrealized loss on these securities totaled $219,000 compared to a $209,000 unrealized gain at December 31, 2004, after recording a $3,709,000 other than temporary impairment charge during the fourth quarter of 2004.

NONPERFORMING ASSETS

Nonperforming assets include nonaccrual loans, loans 90 days or more past due, restructured loans and other real estate owned.
 
Nonperforming loans are those which the borrower fails to perform in accordance with the original terms of the obligation and include loans on nonaccrual status, loans past due 90 days or more and restructured loans. The Company generally places loans on nonaccrual status and accrued but unpaid interest is reversed against the current year's income when interest or principal payments become 90 days or more past due unless the outstanding principal and interest is adequately secured and, in the opinion of Company management, is deemed in the process of collection. Interest income on nonaccrual loans is recorded on a cash basis. Payments may be treated as interest income or return of principal depending upon management's opinion of the ultimate risk of loss on the individual loan. Cash payments are treated as interest income where management believes the remaining principal balance is fully collectible. Additional loans not 90 days past due may also be placed on nonaccrual status if management reasonably believes the borrower will not be able to comply with the contractual loan repayment terms and collection of principal or interest is in question.
 
A "restructured loan" is a loan on which interest accrues at a below market rate or upon which certain principal has been forgiven so as to aid the borrower in the final repayment of the loan, with any interest previously accrued, but not yet collected, being reversed against current income. Interest is reported on a cash basis until the borrower's ability to service the restructured loan in accordance with its terms is established. The Company had no restructured loans as of the dates indicated in the table below.

 
The following table summarizes nonperforming assets of the Company at September 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004:

   
September 30,
 
December 31,
 
   
2005
 
2004
 
(Dollars in thousands)
         
Nonaccrual loans
 
$
2,042
 
$
4,394
 
Accruing loans past due 90 days or more
   
9
   
-
 
Total nonperforming loans
   
2,051
   
4,394
 
Other real estate owned
   
60
   
60
 
Total nonperforming assets
 
$
2,111
 
$
4,454
 
               
Nonperforming loans to total loans
   
0.20
%
 
0.50
%
Nonperforming assets to total assets
   
0.13
%
 
0.31
%
             
 
Contractual accrued interest income on loans on nonaccrual status as of September 30, 2005 and 2004, that would have been recognized if the loans had been current in accordance with their original terms was approximately $152,000 and $93,000, respectively.
 
At September 30, 2005, nonperforming assets represented 0.13% of total assets, a decrease of 18 basis points when compared to the 0.31% at December 31, 2004. Nonperforming loans represented 0.20% of total loans at September 30, 2005, a decrease of 30 basis points compared to the 0.50% at December 31, 2004. Nonperforming loans that were secured by first deeds of trust on real property were $1,958,000 and $4,390,000 at September 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004. The decrease in nonperforming loans and nonperforming assets was primarily the result of the continuation of a strong real estate market that has allowed for successful workouts on a few struggling commercial real estate and agricultural properties. Other forms of collateral such as inventory and equipment secured a portion of the nonperforming loans as of each date. No assurance can be given that the collateral securing nonperforming loans will be sufficient to prevent losses on such loans.
 
At September 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004, the Company had $60,000 invested in one property that had been acquired through foreclosure. The property was carried at the lower of its estimated market value, as evidenced by an independent appraisal, or the recorded investment in the related loan, less estimated selling expenses. At foreclosure, if the fair value of the real estate, net of estimated selling costs, is less than the Company's recorded investment in the related loan, a charge is made to the allowance for loan losses. The Company does not expect to sell its one remaining property within the next twelve month period due to the fact that the property is subject to a lifetime tenancy for the current occupant of the residence. During the third quarter of 2005, no new foreclosure properties were acquired or sold. No assurance can be given that the Company will sell the remaining property during 2005, or at any time, or for the assigned value.
 
Management defines impaired loans, regardless of past due status on loans, as those on which principal and interest are not expected to be collected under the original contractual loan repayment terms. An impaired loan is charged off at the time management believes the collection process has been exhausted. At September 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004, impaired loans were measured based on the present value of future cash flows discounted at the loan's effective rate, the loan's observable market price or the fair value of collateral if the loan is collateral-dependent. Impaired loans at September 30, 2005 were $2,051,000 for which the Company has made provisions to the allowance for loan losses of approximately $305,000.
 
Except for loans that are disclosed above, there were no assets as of September 30, 2005, where known information about possible credit problems of the borrower caused the Bank’s management to have serious doubts as to the ability of the borrower to comply with the present loan repayment terms and which may become nonperforming assets. Given the volume and complexity of the Bank's loan portfolio, however, it is always possible that current credit problems may exist that may not have been discovered by management.

 
Allowance for Loan Losses
 
The following table summarizes the loan loss experience of the Company for the three months ended September 30, 2005 and 2004.

   
September 30
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
2005
 
2004
 
Allowance for Loan Losses:
         
Balance at beginning of period
 
$
13,404
 
$
13,081
 
Provision for loan losses
   
1,035
   
879
 
Charge-offs:
             
Commercial and agricultural
   
108
   
226
 
Real estate - mortgage
   
-
   
-
 
Consumer
   
89
   
164
 
Total charge-offs
   
197
   
390
 
Recoveries
             
Commercial and agricultural
   
313
   
162
 
Real-Estate - mortgage
   
-
   
-
 
Consumer
   
43
   
72
 
Total recoveries
   
356
   
234
 
Net charge-offs
   
(159
)
 
156
 
Balance at end of period
 
$
14,598
 
$
13,804
 
               
Loans outstanding at period-end
 
$
1,027,231
 
$
857,980
 
Average loans outstanding
 
$
1,009,059
 
$
830,047
 
 

The following table summarizes the loan loss experience of the Company for the nine months ended September 30, 2005 and 2004, and for the year ended December 31, 2004.

   
September 30
 
December 31
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
2005
 
2004
 
2004
 
Allowance for Loan Losses:
             
Balance at beginning of period
 
$
13,605
 
$
12,524
 
$
12,524
 
Provision for loan losses
   
1,356
   
2,183
   
2,731
 
Charge-offs:
                   
Commercial and agricultural
   
1,078
   
1,104
   
1,860
 
Real estate - mortgage
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
Consumer
   
240
   
316
   
436
 
Total charge-offs
   
1,318
   
1,420
   
2,296
 
Recoveries
                   
Commercial and agricultural
   
783
   
305
   
344
 
Real-Estate - mortgage
   
-
   
-
   
12
 
Consumer
   
172
   
212
   
290
 
Total recoveries
   
955
   
517
   
646
 
Net charge-offs
   
363
   
903
   
1,650
 
Balance at end of period
 
$
14,598
 
$
13,804
 
$
13,605
 
                     
Loans outstanding at period-end
 
$
1,027,231
 
$
857,980
 
$
885,093
 
Average loans outstanding
 
$
947,022
 
$
799,997
 
$
813,050
 
                     
Annualized net charge-offs to average loans
   
0.05
%
 
0.15
%
 
0.20
%
Allowance for loan losses
                   
To total loans
   
1.42
%
 
1.61
%
 
1.54
%
To nonperforming loans
   
711.75
%
 
325.11
%
 
309.63
%
To nonperforming assets
   
691.52
%
 
320.58
%
 
305.46
%
 
The Company maintains an allowance for loan losses at a level considered by the Company’s management to be adequate to cover the inherent risks of loss associated with its loan portfolio under prevailing and anticipated economic conditions. In determining the overall adequacy of the allowance for loan losses, management takes into consideration growth trends in the portfolio, examinations by financial institution supervisory authorities, prior loan loss experience, concentrations of credit risk, delinquency trends, general and local economic conditions, loan security, the interest rate environment and internal and external credit reviews. In addition, the risks management considers vary depending on the nature of specific loans. The normal risks considered by management with respect to agricultural loans include the fluctuating value of the collateral, changes in weather conditions and the availability of adequate water resources in the Company's local market area. The normal risks considered by management with respect to real estate construction loans include fluctuation in real estate values, the demand for improved commercial and industrial properties and housing, the availability of permanent financing in the Company's market area and the borrowers' ability to obtain permanent financing. The normal risks considered by management with respect to real estate mortgage loans include fluctuations in the value of real estate. Additionally, the Company relies on data obtained through independent appraisals for significant properties to determine loss exposure on nonperforming loans.

 
The Company uses a method developed by management for determining the appropriate level of its allowance for loan losses. This method applies relevant risk factors to the entire loan portfolio, including nonperforming loans. The methodology is based, in part, on the Company's loan grading and classification system. The Company grades its loans through internal reviews. In addition, the Company periodically subjects loans to external reviews whose reports are assessed by the Company's audit committee and management. Credit reviews are performed on a monthly basis and the quality grading process occurs on a quarterly basis. Risk factors applied to the performing loan portfolio are based on the Company's past loss history considering the current portfolio's characteristics, current economic conditions and other relevant factors. General reserves are applied to various categories of loans at percentages ranging up to 1.8% based on the Company's assessment of credit risks for each category. Risk factors are applied to the carrying value of each classified loan: (i) loans internally graded "Watch" or "Special Mention" carry a risk factor from 1.0% to 2.0%; (ii) "Substandard" loans carry a risk factor from 15% to 40% depending on collateral securing the loan, if any; (iii) "Doubtful" loans carry a 50% risk factor; and (iv) "Loss" loans are charged off 100%. In addition, a portion of the allowance is specially allocated to identified problem credits. The analysis also includes reference to factors such as the delinquency status of the loan portfolio, inherent risk by type of loans, industry statistical data, recommendations made by the Company's regulatory authorities and outside loan reviewers, and current economic environment. Important components of the overall credit rating process are the asset quality rating process and the internal loan review process.
 
The balance in the allowance is affected by the amounts provided from operations, amounts charged off and recoveries of loans previously charged off. The Company recorded a provision for loan losses in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2005 of $1,035,000 and $1,356,000 compared with $879,000 and $2,183,000 in the same periods of 2004. The increase in loan loss provision for the three months ended September 30, 2005 compared to the same period in 2004 was caused by an increase in graded loans. In the opinion of management the increase in graded loans relates to individual borrower difficulties, and are not indicative of any industry or market deterioration in our marketplace. The decrease for the first nine months of 2005 compared to the same periods in 2004 was related to an overall improvement in nonperforming loans. The Company had a net recovery of $159,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2005 compared to a net charge-off of $156,000 for the same period in 2004. The increased recoveries in 2005 were realized in the commercial and agricultural portfolios. The Company's charge-offs, net of recoveries, were $363,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2005 compared with $903,000 for the same nine months in 2004. The decrease primarily occurred due to increased recoveries obtained from the commercial and agricultural segment of the loan portfolio that occurred in the third quarter of 2005. The increased recoveries in this segment were primarily attributable to recoveries specific to individual borrowers rather than market or industry conditions that apply to a broader customer base.
 
As of September 30, 2005, the allowance for loan losses was $14,598,000 or 1.42% of total loans outstanding, compared with $13,605,000 or 1.54% of total loans outstanding as of December 31, 2004 and $13,804,000 or 1.61% of total loans outstanding as of September 30, 2004.
 
The allowance is based on estimates and ultimate future losses may vary from current estimates. It is possible that future economic or other factors may adversely affect the Company's borrowers, and thereby cause future loan losses to exceed the current allowance. In addition, there can be no assurance that future economic or other factors will not adversely affect the Company's borrowers, or that the Company's asset quality will not deteriorate through rapid growth, failure to enforce underwriting standards, failure to maintain appropriate underwriting standards, failure to maintain an adequate number of qualified loan personnel, failure to identify and monitor potential problem loans, increased market competition, adverse economic conditions, or for other reasons, and thereby cause loan losses to exceed the current allowance.
 
The allocation of the allowance to loan categories is an estimate by management of the relative risk characteristics of loans in those categories. No assurance can be given that future losses in one or more loan categories will not exceed the portion of the allowance allocated to that category or even exceed the entire allowance.


RESERVE FOR UNFUNDED LENDING COMMITMENTS
 
The reserve for unfunded lending commitments at September 30, 2005 and 2004, and December 31, 2004, is presented below.

   
September 30
 
December 31
 
   
2005
 
2004
 
2004
 
 (Dollars in thousands)  
 
 
Balance at the beginning of period
 
$
679
 
$
739
 
$
739
 
Increase (reduction) in accruals for credit commitment losses
   
24
   
(182
)
 
(60
)
Balance at the end of period
 
$
703
 
$
557
 
$
679
 
 
In 2005, the Company reclassified the reserve for unfunded lending commitments from the allowance for loan losses to other liabilities. The reclassifications had no effect on the income before provision for income taxes as reported. Prior periods have been adjusted for the reclassification.
 
EXTERNAL FACTORS AFFECTING ASSET QUALITY
 
As a result of the Company's loan portfolio mix, the future quality of its assets could be affected by adverse economic trends in its region or in the agricultural community. These trends are beyond the control of the Company.
 
California is an earthquake-prone region. Accordingly, a major earthquake could result in material loss to the Company. At times the Company's service area has experienced other natural disasters such as floods and droughts. The Company's properties and substantially all of the real and personal property securing loans in the Company's portfolio are located in California. The Company faces the risk that many of its borrowers face uninsured property damage, interruption of their businesses or loss of their jobs from earthquakes, floods or droughts. As a result these events, borrowers may be unable to repay their loans in accordance with their terms and the collateral for such loans may decline significantly in value. The Company's service area is a largely agricultural region and therefore is highly dependent on a reliable supply of quality water for irrigation purposes. Water supply can be adversely affected by light snowfall over one or more winters, draught or by any diversion of water from its present natural courses. Any such natural disaster could impair the ability of many of the Company's borrowers to meet their obligations to the Company.
 
Parts of California have experienced significant floods in the late 1990s. No assurance can be given that future flooding will not have an adverse impact on the Company and its borrowers and depositors.
 
LIQUIDITY
 
In order to maintain adequate liquidity, the Company must have sufficient resources available at all times to meet its cash flow requirements. The need for liquidity in a banking institution arises principally to provide for deposit withdrawals, the credit needs of its customers and to take advantage of investment opportunities as they arise. The Company may achieve desired liquidity from both assets, liabilities and retained earnings. The Company considers cash and deposits held in other banks, federal funds sold, other short term investments, maturing loans and investments, payments of principal and interest on loans and investments and potential sales of loans, investments and real estate as sources of asset liquidity. Deposit growth and access to credit lines established with correspondent banks and market sources of funds are considered by the Company as sources of liability liquidity. The company’s primary source of liquidity is from dividends received from the Bank. Dividends from the Bank are subject to certain regulatory restrictions.
 
The Company reviews its liquidity position on a regular basis based upon its current position and expected trends of loans and deposits. The Company's liquid assets, as defined above totaled $294,818,000 and $330,358,000 on September 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004, respectively, and constituted 19% and 23% of total assets on both those dates. Liquidity is also affected by the collateral requirements of its public deposits and certain borrowings. Total pledged securities were $364,612,000 at September 30, 2005 compared with $321,688,000 at December 31, 2004.
 
Although the Company's primary sources of liquidity include liquid assets and a stable deposit base, the Company maintains lines of credit with the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco, Pacific Coast Bankers' Bank, Union Bank of California, Wells Fargo Bank and First Tennessee Bank aggregating $283,407,000 of which $140,650,000 was outstanding as of September 30, 2005, and lines of credit aggregating $217,832,000 as of December 31, 2004 of which $155,326,000 was outstanding as of December 31, 2004. The decrease in borrowings outstanding during the first nine months of 2005 was mainly the result of a decrease in the investment portfolio. Management believes that the Company maintains adequate amounts of liquid assets to meet its liquidity needs. The Company's liquidity might be insufficient if deposit withdrawals were to exceed foreseeable levels. Deposit withdrawals can increase if the Bank experiences financial difficulties, receives adverse publicity for other reasons, or if its pricing, products or services are not competitive with those offered by other institutions.
 
CAPITAL RESOURCES
 
The Company’s capital serves as a source of funds and helps protect depositors against potential losses. The primary source of capital for the Company has been internally generated capital through retained earnings. The Company's shareholders' equity increased by $14,498,000 or 14% from December 31, 2004 to September 30, 2005. This increase was caused by the retention of accumulated earnings.
 
The Company is subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by the federal banking agencies. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate mandatory and possibly additional discretionary actions by the regulators that, if undertaken, could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition and liquidity. Management believes, as of September 30, 2005, that the Company and the Bank met all applicable capital requirements. The Company’s leverage capital ratio at September 30, 2005 was 8.53% as compared with 8.46% as of December 31, 2004. The Company’s total risk based capital ratio at September 30, 2005 was 11.50% as compared to 11.55% as of December 31, 2004.

 
In the opinion of management, the Company’s and Bank’s actual capital amounts and ratios met all regulatory requirements as of September 30, 2005 and were summarized as follows:
 
Dollars in thousands
 
Actual
 
For Capital
Adequacy Purposes
 
To Be Well Capitalized
Under Prompt Corrective
Action Provisions:
 
Consolidated
 
Amount
 
Ratio
 
Amount 
 
Ratio 
 
Amount 
 
Ratio
 
As of September 30, 2005
                         
Total capital (to risk weighted assets)
 
$
148,629
   
11.50
%
$
103,416
   
8.0
%
$
129,270
   
10.0
%
Tier 1 capital (to risk weighted assets)
   
133,328
   
10.31
   
51,708
   
4.0
   
77,562
   
6.0
 
Leverage ratio*
   
133,328
   
8.53
   
62,503
   
4.0
   
78,128
   
5.0
 
                                       
The Bank:
                                     
As of September 30, 2005
                                     
Total capital (to risk weighted assets)
 
$
136,149
   
10.56
%
$
103,154
   
8.0
%
$
128,942
   
10.0
%
Tier 1 capital (to risk weighted assets)
   
120,848
   
9.37
   
51,577
   
4.0
   
77,365
   
6.0
 
Leverage ratio*
   
120,848
   
7.75
   
62,403
   
4.0
   
78,004
   
5.0
 
 
* The leverage ratio consists of Tier 1 capital divided by adjusted quarterly average assets. The minimum leverage ratio is 3 percent for banking organizations that do not anticipate significant growth and that have well-diversified risk, excellent asset quality and in general, are considered top-rated banks.

 
The Company issues dividends solely at the discretion of the Company’s Board of Directors, subject to compliance with regulatory requirements. In order to pay any cash dividends, the Company must receive payments of dividends or management fees from the Bank. There are certain regulatory limitations on the payment of cash dividends by banks.

On October 26, 2004, the Bank entered into a written agreement (the “Agreement”) with the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco (“FRBSF”) relating to certain deficiencies identified by the FRBSF with respect to the Bank’s compliance with Bank Secrecy Act (“BSA”) and other applicable laws and regulations relating to anti-money laundering (“AML”). CCOW has filed a Form 8-K on October 28, 2004.

The banking industry, including the Bank, is subject to significantly increased regulatory scrutiny and enforcement regarding BSA matters. Under the Agreement, the Bank will, among other actions to be taken, (i) develop a written program designed to improve the Bank’s system of internal controls to ensure compliance with applicable provisions of the BSA; (ii) develop an enhanced written customer due diligence program designed to reasonably ensure the identification and reporting of all known or suspected violations of law and suspicious transactions against or involving the Bank; (iii) establish enhanced written policies and procedures designed to strengthen the Bank’s internal controls and internal audit program, and (iv) submit quarterly progress reports to the FRBSF detailing actions taken to secure compliance with the Agreement.

The Bank has made significant progress in addressing the deficiencies identified by the FRBSF. The compliance effort has entailed certain additional expenditures. In addition, while the Agreement is in place, its effect may be to limit the Bank’s ability to engage in certain expansionary activity. Neither of these effects are expected to have a material adverse impact on the financial condition nor results of operations of the Bank or the Company.
 
DEPOSITS
 
Deposits are the Company's primary source of operating and investment funds. At September 30, 2005, the Company had a deposit mix of 29% in savings deposits, 34% in time deposits, 15% in interest-bearing checking accounts and 22% in noninterest-bearing demand accounts. Noninterest-bearing demand deposits enhance the Company's net interest income by lowering its costs of funds.
 
The Company obtains deposits primarily from within the communities it serves. No material portion of its deposits has been obtained from, or is dependent, on any one person or industry. The Company's business is not seasonal in nature. The Company accepts deposits in excess of $100,000 from customers. These deposits are priced competitively. At September 30, 2005, the Company had brokered deposits of $20,966,000 and $99,000 at December 31, 2004.
 
Maturities of time certificates of deposits of $100,000 or more outstanding at September 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004 are summarized as follows:
 
   
September 30, 2005
 
December 31, 2004
 
(Dollars in thousands)
     
Three months or less
 
$
64,450
 
$
77,105
 
Over three to six months
   
71,046
   
20,366
 
Over six to twelve months
   
45,907
   
38,086
 
Over twelve months
   
45,331
   
31,183
 
Total
 
$
226,734
 
$
166,740
 

Borrowed Funds
 
Borrowed funds decreased by $18,970,000 or 12% to $145,149,000 at September 30, 2005 compared to the $164,119,000 outstanding at December 31, 2004. The decrease in borrowed funds during the first nine months of 2005 was primarily due to the decrease in investments including held to maturity, available for sale, and fed funds sold.
 
Return on Equity and Assets
 
   
Three months ended
 
Three months ended
 
Year ended
 
   
September 30
 
September 30
 
December 31
 
   
2005
 
2004
 
2004
 
               
Annualized return on average assets
   
1.39
%
 
1.21
%
 
0.94
%
Annualized return on average equity
   
18.84
%
 
16.26
%
 
12.69
%
Dividend payout ratio
   
9.62
%
 
13.16
%
 
16.81
%
Average equity to average assets
   
7.40
%
 
7.46
%
 
7.41
%
 
   
Nine months ended
 
Nine months ended
 
Year ended
 
   
September 30
 
September 30
 
December 31
 
   
2005
 
2004
 
2004
 
               
Annualized return on average assets
   
1.37
%
 
1.20
%
 
0.94
%
Annualized return on average equity
   
18.77
%
 
16.14
%
 
12.69
%
Dividend payout ratio
   
10.05
%
 
13.42
%
 
16.81
%
Average equity to average assets
   
7.32
%
 
7.41
%
 
7.41
%
 
Impact of Inflation
 
The primary impact of inflation on the Company is its effect on interest rates. The Company’s primary source of income is net interest income which is affected by changes in interest rates. The Company attempts to limit inflation’s impact on its net interest margin through management of rate sensitive assets and liabilities and the ongoing analysis of interest rate sensitivity. The effect of inflation on premises and equipment, as well as on interest expenses, was not significant for the periods covered in this report.

 
Item 3.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

In the normal course of business, the Company is exposed to market risk which includes both price and liquidity risk. Price risk is created from fluctuations in interest rates and the mismatch in repricing characteristics of assets, liabilities, and off balance sheet instruments at a specified point in time. Mismatches in interest rate repricing among assets and liabilities arise primarily through the interaction of the various types of loans versus the types of deposits that are maintained as well as from management's discretionary investment and funds gathering activities. Liquidity risk arises from the possibility that the Company may not be able to satisfy current and future financial commitments or that the Company may not be able to liquidate financial instruments at market prices. Risk management policies and procedures have been established and are utilized to manage the Company's exposure to market risk. Quarterly analysis of the Company’s assets and liabilities under both increasing and decreasing interest rate environments are performed to insure the Company does not assume a magnitude of risk that is outside approved policy limits.

The Company’s success is largely dependent upon its ability to manage interest rate risk. Interest rate risk can be defined as the exposure of the Company’s net interest income to adverse movements in interest rates. Although the Company manages other risks, such as credit and liquidity risk in the normal course of its business, management considers interest rate risk to be its most significant market risk and could potentially have the largest material impact on the Company’s financial condition and results of operations. Correspondingly, the overall strategy of the Company is to manage interest rate risk, through its balance sheet structure, to be interest rate neutral.

The Company’s interest rate risk management is the responsibility of the Asset/Liability Management Committee (“ALCO”). ALCO establishes policies that monitor and coordinate the Company’s sources, uses and pricing of funds. ALCO is also involved in formulating the economic projections for the Company’s annual budget and strategic plan. ALCO sets specific rate sensitivity limits for the Company. ALCO monitors and adjusts the Company’s exposure to changes in interest rates to achieve predetermined risk targets that it believes are consistent with current and expected market conditions. Balance sheet management personnel monitor the asset and liability changes on an ongoing basis and provide report information and recommendations to ALCO in regards to those changes.

The marketplace has experienced a significant increase in short term interest rates over the last fifteen months. In June, 2004, the federal funds rate was 1% and the prime rate was 4%. By September 20, 2005, after consecutive 25 basis point increases in the fed funds rate by the Federal Reserve Board of Governors, the federal funds rate was 3.75% and the prime rate was 6.75%. In order to reduce some of the interest rate sensitivity in the Company’s balance sheet, on August 26, 2005, the Company purchased an option contract at a premium of $1,270,000 from Wachovia Bank that specifies the Company shall receive the difference between 6.5% and the prime rate for the month if the prime rate falls below 6.5% on the measurement date each month, during the five year term ending August 25, 2010, on $100,000,000 of the Company’s prime indexed loans. Management believes this option contract will lower the interest rate sensitivity, of the Company’s balance sheet, to declining interest rates, at a reasonable cost. If interest rates were to suddenly and materially decline from levels experienced during 2005, the Company could become susceptible to an increased level of market risk.
 
It is the opinion of management, with the purchase of the option contract described in the preceding paragraph, there has been no material change in the Company’s market risk position exposure during the first nine months of 2005 when compared to the level of market risk at December 31, 2004. If interest rates were to suddenly and materially fall from levels experienced during the first nine months of 2005, the Company could become susceptible to an increased level of market risk.
 

Item 4.  Controls and Procedures

Evaluation Of Disclosure Controls And Procedures

Under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including its chief executive officer and chief financial officer, the Company conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of its disclosure controls and procedures as defined by Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

Based on the evaluation, the chief executive officer and chief financial officer concluded that as of the end of the period covered by this report the disclosure controls and procedures were adequate and effective, and that the material information required to be included in this report, including information from the Company’s consolidated subsidiaries, was properly recorded, processed, summarized and reported, and was made known to the chief executive officer and chief financial officer by others within the Company in a timely manner, particularly during the period when this quarterly report on Form 10-Q was being prepared.

Changes In Internal Control over Financial Reporting

There was no significant change in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during our most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
 
 
PART II - Other Information
 
 
The Company is a party to routine litigation in the ordinary course of its business. In the opinion of management, pending and threatened litigation is not likely to have a material adverse effect on the financial condition or results of operations of the Company.
 
 
None.
 
 
None.
 
 
None.
 
 
In the opinion of management, there is no additional information relating to these periods being reported which warrants inclusion in the report.
 
 
See Exhibit Index

 
 
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.
 
CAPITAL CORP OF THE WEST
 
(Registrant)
 

Date: November 3, 2005
By /s/ Thomas T. Hawker
 
Thomas T. Hawker
 
President and
 
Chief Executive Officer


Date: November 3, 2005
By /s/ R. Dale McKinney
 
R. Dale McKinney
 
Executive Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer


 
Exhibit Description
Certification of Registrant's Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
   
Certification of Registrant's Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
   
Certification of Registrant’s Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350
   
Certification of Registrant’s Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350
 

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