SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2018
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES [Abstract]
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES	NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Shore Bancshares, Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively referred to in these Notes as the “Company”), with all significant intercompany transactions eliminated. The investments in subsidiaries are recorded on the Company’s books (Parent only) on the basis of its equity in the net assets of the subsidiaries. The accounting and reporting policies of the Company conform to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). For purposes of comparability, certain reclassifications have been made to amounts previously reported to conform with the current period presentation. Nature of Operations The Company engages in the banking business through Shore United Bank, a Maryland commercial bank with trust powers. The Company’s primary source of revenue is interest earned on commercial, real estate and consumer loans made to customers located in Maryland, Delaware and the Eastern Shore of Virginia. The Company engages in the trust services business through the trust department at Shore United Bank under the trade name Wye Financial & Trust. Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements, and affect the reported amounts of revenues earned and expenses incurred during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Estimates that could change significantly relate to the determination of the allowance for loan losses, the determination of fair values related to impaired loans and other real estate owned, fair values initially assigned in an acquisition and subsequent evaluations of the related goodwill and intangible assets for impairment, and the valuation of deferred tax assets. Investment Securities Available for Sale Investment securities available for sale are stated at estimated fair value based on quoted prices. They represent those debt securities which management may sell as part of its asset/liability management strategy or which may be sold in response to changing interest rates, changes in prepayment risk or other similar factors. Realized gains and losses are recorded in noninterest income and are determined on a trade date basis using the specific identification method. Premiums and discounts are amortized or accreted into interest income using the interest method over the expected lives of the individual securities. Interest on investment securities is recognized in interest income on an accrual basis. Net unrealized holding gains and losses on these securities are reported as accumulated other comprehensive income, a separate component of stockholders’ equity, net of related income taxes. Declines in the fair value of individual available-for-sale securities below their cost that are other than temporary result in write-downs of the individual securities to their fair value and are reflected in earnings as realized losses. Factors affecting the determination of whether an other-than-temporary impairment has occurred include a downgrade of the security by a rating agency, a significant deterioration in the financial condition of the issuer, or a determination that management has the intent to sell the security or will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost. Investment Securities Held to Maturity Investment securities held to maturity are stated at cost adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts. Purchase premiums and discounts are recognized in interest income using the interest method over the terms of the securities. The Company intends and has the ability to hold such securities until maturity. Declines in the fair value of individual held-to-maturity securities below their cost that are other than temporary result in write-downs of the individual securities to their fair value. Factors affecting the determination of whether an other-than-temporary impairment has occurred include a downgrade of the security by a rating agency, a significant deterioration in the financial condition of the issuer, or a determination that management has the intent to sell the security or will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost. Equity Securities Equity securities with readily determinable fair values are carried at fair value, with changes in fair value reported in net income. Any equity securities without readily determinable fair values are carried at cost, minus impairment, if any, plus or minus changes resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for identical or similar investments. Restricted equity securities are carried at cost and are periodically evaluated for impairment based on the ultimate recovery of par value. The entirety of any impairment on equity securities is recognized in earnings. Loans Loans are stated at their principal amount outstanding net of any deferred fees, premiums, discounts and costs and net of any partial charge-offs. Interest income on loans is accrued at the contractual rate based on the principal amount outstanding. Fees charged and costs capitalized for originating loans are being amortized substantially on the interest method over the term of the loan. A loan is placed on nonaccrual (i.e., interest income is no longer accrued) when it is specifically determined to be impaired or when principal or interest is delinquent for 90 days or more, unless the loan is well secured and in the process of collection. Any unpaid interest previously accrued on those loans is reversed from income. Interest payments received on nonaccrual loans are applied as a reduction of the loan principal balance unless collectability of the principal amount is reasonably assured, in which case interest is recognized on a cash basis. Loans are returned to accrual status when all principal and interest amounts contractually due are brought current and future payments are reasonably assured. A loan is considered impaired if it is probable that the Company will not collect all principal and interest payments according to the loan’s contractual terms. An impaired loan may show deficiencies in the borrower’s overall financial condition, payment history, support available from financial guarantors and/or the fair market value of collateral. The impairment of a loan is measured at the present value of expected future cash flows using the loan’s effective interest rate, or at the loan’s observable market price or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. Generally, the Company measures impairment on such loans by reference to the fair value of the collateral. Once the amount of impairment has been determined, the uncollectible portion is charged off. Income on impaired loans is recognized on a cash basis, and payments are first applied against the principal balance outstanding (i.e., placing impaired loans on nonaccrual status). Generally, interest income is not recognized on impaired loans unless the likelihood of further loss is remote. The allowance for credit losses may include specific reserves related to impaired loans. Specific reserves remain until charge offs are made. Impaired loans do not include groups of smaller balance homogeneous loans such as residential mortgage and consumer installment loans that are evaluated collectively for impairment. Reserves for probable credit losses related to these loans are based on historical loss ratios and an analysis of qualitative factors and are included in the formula portion of the allowance for credit losses. See additional discussion below under the section, “Allowance for Credit Losses”. A loan is considered a troubled debt restructuring (“TDR”) if a borrower is experiencing financial difficulties and a creditor has granted a concession. Concessions may include interest rate reductions or below market interest rates, principal forgiveness, restructuring amortization schedules and other actions intended to minimize potential losses. Loans are identified to be restructured when signs of impairment arise such as borrower interest rate reduction request, slowness to pay, or when an inability to repay becomes evident. The terms being offered are evaluated to determine if they are more liberal than those that would be indicated by policy or industry standards for similar, untroubled credits. In those situations where the terms or the interest rates are considered to be more favorable than industry standards or the current underwriting guidelines of the Company’s banking subsidiary, the loan is classified as a TDR. All loans designated as TDRs are considered impaired loans and may be on either accrual or nonaccrual status. In instances where the loan has been placed on nonaccrual status, six consecutive months of timely payments are required prior to returning the loan to accrual status. All loans classified as TDRs which are restructured and accrue interest under revised terms require a full and comprehensive review of the borrower’s financial condition, capacity for repayment, realistic assessment of collateral values, and the assessment of risk entered into any workout agreement. Current financial information on the borrower, guarantor, and underlying collateral is analyzed to determine if it supports the ultimate collection of principal and interest. For commercial loans, the cash flows are analyzed, both for the underlying project and globally. For consumer loans, updated salary, credit history and cash flow information is obtained. Current market conditions are also considered. Following a full analysis, the determination of the appropriate loan structure is made. The Company does not participate in any specific government or Company sponsored loan modification programs. All TDR loan agreements are contracts negotiated with each of the borrowers. Allowance for Credit Losses The allowance for credit losses is maintained at a level believed adequate by management to absorb losses inherent in the loan portfolio as of the balance sheet date and is based on the size and current risk characteristics of the loan portfolio, an assessment of individual problem loans and actual loss experience, current economic events in specific industries and geographical areas, including unemployment levels, and other pertinent factors, including regulatory guidance and general economic conditions and other observable data. Determination of the allowance is inherently subjective as it requires significant estimates, including the amounts and timing of expected future cash flows or collateral value of impaired loans, estimated losses on pools of homogeneous loans that are based on historical loss experience, and consideration of current economic trends, all of which may be susceptible to significant change. Loans, or portions thereof, that are considered uncollectible are charged off against the allowance, while recoveries of amounts previously charged off are credited to the allowance. The criteria for charge offs are addressed in the Bank’s Collection and Workout Policy. Per the policy, the recognition of the loss of loans or portions of loans will occur when there is a reasonable probability of loss. When the amount of loss can be readily calculated, the loss will be recognized. In cases where a probable charge-off amount cannot be calculated, specific reserves will be maintained. A provision for credit losses is charged to income based on management’s periodic evaluation of the factors previously mentioned, as well as other pertinent factors. Evaluations are conducted at least quarterly and more often if deemed necessary. The allowance for credit losses is an estimate of the losses that may be sustained in the loan portfolio. The allowance is based on two basic principles of accounting: (i) Topic 450, “ Contingencies ”, of the Financial Accounting Standards Board’s Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”), which requires that losses be accrued when they are probable of occurring and estimable; and (ii) ASC Topic 310, “ Receivables ”, which requires that losses be accrued based on the differences between the loan balance and the value of collateral, present value of future cash flows or values that are observable in the secondary market. Management uses many factors to estimate the inherent loss that may be present in our loan portfolio, including economic conditions and trends, the value and adequacy of collateral, the volume and mix of the loan portfolio, and our internal loan processes. Actual losses could differ significantly from management’s estimates. In addition, GAAP itself may change from one previously acceptable method to another. Although the economics of transactions would be the same, the timing of events that would impact the transactions could change. Three basic components comprise our allowance for credit losses: (i) the specific allowance; (ii) the historical formula allowance; and (iii) the qualitative formula allowance. Each component is determined based on estimates that can and do change when the actual events occur. The specific allowance is established against impaired loans (i.e., nonaccrual loans and troubled debt restructurings (“TDRs”)) based on our assessment of the losses that may be associated with the individual loans. The specific allowance remains until charge-offs are made. An impaired loan may show deficiencies in the borrower’s overall financial condition, payment history, support available from financial guarantors and/or the fair market value of collateral. The historical formula allowance is used to estimate the loss on internally risk-rated loans, exclusive of those identified as impaired. Loans are grouped by type (construction, residential real estate, commercial real estate, commercial or consumer). Each loan type is assigned allowance factors based on management’s estimate of the risk, complexity and size of individual loans within a particular category using average historical charge-offs by segment over the last 16 quarters. Loans identified as pass-watch, special mention, substandard, and doubtful are considered to have elevated credit risk. These loans are assigned higher allowance factors than favorably rated loans due to management’s concerns regarding collectability or management’s knowledge of particular elements regarding the borrower. The qualitative formula allowance captures losses that have impacted the portfolio but have yet to be recognized in either the specific or historical formula allowance. A pass-watch loan has adequate risk and may include loans which may have been upgraded from another higher risk category. A special mention loan has potential weaknesses that could result in a future loss to the Company if the weaknesses are realized. A substandard loan has certain deficiencies that could result in a future loss to the Company if these deficiencies are not corrected. A doubtful loan has enough risk that there is a high probability that the Company will sustain a loss. Management has significant discretion in making the adjustments inherent in the determination of the provision and allowance for credit losses, including in connection with the valuation of collateral, the estimation of a borrower’s prospects of repayment, and the establishment of the allowance factors in the formula allowance and unallocated allowance components of the allowance. The establishment of allowance factors is a continuing exercise, based on management’s ongoing assessment of the totality of all factors, including, but not limited to, delinquencies, loss history, trends in volume and terms of loans, effects of changes in lending policy, the experience and depth of management, national and local economic trends, concentrations of credit, the quality of the loan review system and the effect of external factors such as competition and regulatory requirements, and their impact on the portfolio. Allowance factors may change from period to period, resulting in an increase or decrease in the amount of the provision or allowance, based on the same volume and classification of loans. Changes in allowance factors will have a direct impact on the amount of the provision, and a corresponding effect on net income. Errors in management’s perception and assessment of these factors and their impact on the portfolio could result in the allowance not being adequate to cover losses in the portfolio, and may result in additional provisions or charge-offs. Premises and Equipment Land is carried at cost and premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization are calculated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Useful lives range from three to 10 years for furniture, fixtures and equipment; three to five years for computer hardware and data handling equipment; and 10 to 40 years for buildings and building improvements. Land improvements are amortized over a period of 15 years and leasehold improvements are amortized over the term of the respective lease. Sale-leaseback transactions are considered normal leasebacks and any realized gains are deferred and amortized to other income on a straight-line basis over the initial lease term. Maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred, while improvements which extend the useful life of an asset are capitalized and depreciated over the estimated remaining life of the asset. Long-lived assets are evaluated periodically for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount may not be recoverable. Impairment exists when the expected undiscounted future cash flows of a long-lived asset are less than its carrying value. In that event, the Company recognizes a loss for the difference between the carrying amount and the estimated fair value of the asset. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of the net assets acquired. Other intangible assets represent purchased assets that also lack physical substance but can be distinguished from goodwill because of contractual or other legal rights or because the asset is capable of being sold or exchanged either on its own or in combination with a related contract, asset or liability. Goodwill and other intangible assets are initially required to be recorded at fair value. Determining fair value is subjective, requiring the use of estimates, assumptions and management judgment. Goodwill and other intangible assets with indefinite lives are tested at least annually for impairment, usually during the fourth quarter, or on an interim basis if circumstances dictate. Intangible assets that have finite lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives and also are subject to impairment testing. Impairment testing requires that the fair value of each of the Company’s reporting units be compared to the carrying amount of its net assets, including goodwill. If the fair value of a reporting unit is less than book value, an expense may be required to write down the related goodwill or purchased intangibles to record an impairment loss. As of December 31, 2018, the Company had one reporting unit and operating segment the (i.e., the Bank). During the fourth quarter of 2018 and 2017, goodwill and other intangible assets were subjected to the annual assessment for impairment. As a result of the assessment, it was determined that it was not more likely than not that the fair values of the Company’s reporting units were less than their carrying amounts so no impairment was recorded. Other Real Estate Owned Other real estate owned represents assets acquired in satisfaction of loans either by foreclosure or deeds taken in lieu of foreclosure. Properties acquired are recorded at fair value less estimated selling costs at the time of acquisition, establishing a new cost basis. Thereafter, costs incurred to operate or carry the properties as well as reductions in value as determined by periodic appraisals are charged to operating expense. Gains and losses resulting from the final disposition of the properties are included in noninterest income. Borrowings Short-term and long-term borrowings are comprised primarily of FHLB borrowings. A portion of the Company’s short-term borrowings are repurchase agreements. The repurchase agreements are securities sold to the Company’s customers, at the customers’ request, under a continuing “roll-over” contract that matures in one business day. The underlying securities sold are U.S. Government agency securities, which are segregated from the Company’s other investment securities by its safekeeping agents. Income Taxes The Company and its subsidiaries file a consolidated federal income tax return. The Company accounts for income taxes using the liability method in accordance with required accounting guidance. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined by applying the applicable federal and state income tax rates to cumulative temporary differences. These temporary differences represent differences between financial statement carrying amounts and the corresponding tax bases of certain assets and liabilities. Deferred taxes result from such temporary differences. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance, if needed, reduces deferred tax assets to the expected amount most likely to be realized. Realization of deferred tax assets is dependent on the generation of a sufficient level of future taxable income, recoverable taxes paid in prior years and tax planning strategies. The Company evaluates all positive and negative evidence before determining if a valuation allowance is deemed necessary regarding the realization of deferred tax assets. The Company recognizes accrued interest and penalties as a component of tax expense. Significant judgement is required in evaluating the Company’s uncertain tax positions and determining its provision for income taxes. The U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (“Tax Act”) was enacted on December 22, 2017 and introduced significant changes to U.S. income tax law. Effective in 2018, the Tax Act reduces the U.S. statutory tax rate from 35% to 21% and creates new taxes on certain foreign-sourced earnings and certain related-party payments, which are referred to as the global intangible low-taxes income tax and base erosion tax, respectively. In addition, in 2017 the Company was subject to a one-time transition tax on accumulated foreign subsidiary earnings not previously subject to U.S. income tax. Accounting for the income tax effects of the Tax Act required significant judgements and estimates in the interpretation and calculations of the provisions of the Tax Act. The provision for income taxes includes the impact of reserve provisions and changes in the reserves that are considered appropriate as well as the related net interest and penalties. In addition, the Company is subject to the continuous examination of its income tax returns by the IRS and other tax authorities which may assert assessments against the Company. The Company regularly assesses the likelihood of adverse outcomes resulting from these examinations and assessments to determine the adequacy of its provision for income taxes. The Company remains subject to examination for tax years ending on or after December 31, 2015. Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Common Share Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income available to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding and does not include the effect of any potentially dilutive common stock equivalents. Included in this calculation due to dividend participation rights are restricted stock awards which have been granted. Diluted earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of shares outstanding, adjusted for the effect of any potentially dilutive common stock equivalents. Transfers of Financial Assets Transfers of financial assets are accounted for as sales, when control over the assets has been surrendered. Control over transferred assets is deemed to be surrendered when (i) the assets have been isolated from the Company, (ii) the transferee obtains the right (free of conditions that constrain it from taking advantage of that right) to pledge or exchange the transferred assets, and (iii) the Company does not maintain effective control over the transferred assets through an agreement to repurchase them before their maturity. Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and due from banks, interest-bearing deposits with other banks and federal funds sold are considered “cash and cash equivalents” for financial reporting purposes. Certain interest-bearing deposits with banks may exceed balances that are recoverable under Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) insurance. Balances in excess of FDIC insurance at December 31, 2018 were approximately $2.0 million. Share-Based Compensation The Company may grant share-based compensation to employees and non-employee directors in the form of restricted stock, restricted stock units and stock options. The fair value of restricted stock is determined based on the closing price of the Parent’s common stock on the date of grant. The Company recognizes compensation expense related to restricted stock on a straight-line basis over the vesting period for service-based awards, plus additional recognition of costs associated with accelerated vesting based on the projected attainment of Company performance measures. Restricted stock units (“RSUs”) are payable solely in cash which are accounted for as other liabilities in the consolidated statements of condition. The fair value of RSUs is initially valued based on the closing price of the Parent’s common stock on the date of grant and is amortized in the statement of income over the vesting period. The RSUs are subsequently remeasured in the same manner described above at the end of each reporting period until settlement. The fair value of stock options is estimated at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and related assumptions. The Company uses historical data to predict option exercise and employee termination behavior. Expected volatilities are based on the historical volatility of the Parent’s common stock. The expected term of options granted is derived from actual historical exercise activity and represents the period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding. The risk-free rate is derived from the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant based on the expected life of the option. The dividend yield is equal to the dividend yield of the Parent’s common stock at the time of grant. The timing of the expense related to stock options reflects estimated forfeitures, adjusted for actual forfeiture experience. Expense related to stock options is recorded in the statements of income as a component of salaries and benefits for employees and as a component of other noninterest expense for non-employee directors, with a corresponding increase to capital surplus in shareholders’ equity. As the expense related to stock options is recognized, a deferred tax asset is established that represents an estimate of future income tax deductions from the release of restrictions or the exercise of stock options. See Note 13 for a further discussion. Fair Value The Company measures certain financial assets and liabilities at fair value, with the measurements made on a recurring or nonrecurring basis. Significant financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis are investment securities available for sale. Impaired loans and other real estate owned are significant financial instruments measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. Fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. In determining fair value, the Company is required to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs, reducing subjectivity. See Note 20 for a further discussion of fair value. Advertising Costs Advertising costs are generally expensed as incurred. The Company incurred advertising costs for continuing operations of approximately $509 thousand for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Comprehensive Income Changes in unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities is the only component of accumulated other comprehensive income for the Company. There were no reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in 2018. In 2017, the amount reclassified out of other accumulated comprehensive income (loss) was a gain on call of available-for-sale securities of $5 thousand. The related tax effect for the reclassification was $2 thousand. In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-02, “Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (“AOCI”). The Company early adopted this new standard in 2017. ASU 2018-01 requires reclassification from AOCI to retained earnings for stranded tax effects resulting from the impact of newly enacted federal corporate income tax rate on items included in AOCI. The amount of this reclassification in 2017 was $226 thousand. Discontinued Operations During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company completed the sale of its Insurance Agency, Avon Dixon (“Avon”), which represented the Company's Insurance segment. In accordance with ASC 205-20, the Company determined that the sale of Avon and the discontinued operation of the Company’s Premium Finance Company, Mubell Finance, LLC (“Mubell”), assets and liabilities that will be sold or settled separately within one year met the criteria to be classified as a discontinued operation and the related operating results and financial condition have been presented as discontinued operations on the consolidated financial statements. See Note 2 for additional information. Unless otherwise indicated, information included in these notes to the consolidated financial statements is presented on a consolidated operations basis, which includes results from both continuing and discontinued operations, for all periods presented. Segment Reporting In connection with the sale of Avon and the discontinued operation of Mubell, which represented the Company's Insurance segment, the Company reassessed its reportable operating segments. Based on this internal evaluation, the Company determined that its previously disclosed reportable segment, Insurance products and services, is no longer applicable. Accordingly, to better reflect how the Company is now managed and how information is reviewed by the chief operating decision maker, the Company's chief executive officer, the Company determined that all services offered by the Company relate to Commercial Banking. As a result, the Company's only reportable segment is Commercial Banking. Recent Accounting Standards ASU No. 2016-02 - In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842).” Among other things, in the amendments in ASU 2016-02, lessees will be required to recognize the following for all leases (with the exception of short-term leases) at the commencement date: (1) A lease liability, which is a lessee‘s obligation to make lease payments arising from a lease, measured on a discounted basis; and (2) A right-of-use asset, which is an asset that represents the lessee’s right to use, or control the use of, a specified asset for the lease term. Under the new guidance, lessor accounting is largely unchanged. Certain targeted improvements were made to align, where necessary, lessor accounting with the lessee accounting model and Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. The amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Lessees (for capital and operating leases) and lessors (for sales-type, direct financing, and operating leases) must apply a modified retrospective transition approach for leases existing at, or entered into after, the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the financial statements. The modified retrospective approach would not require any transition accounting for leases that expired before the earliest comparative period presented. Lessees and lessors may not apply a full retrospective transition approach. The FASB made subsequent amendments to Topic 842 in July 2018 through ASU 2018-10 (“Codification Improvements to Topic 842, Leases.”) and ASU 2018-11 (“Leases (Topic 842): Targeted Improvements.”) Among these amendments is the provision in ASU 2018-11 that provides entities with an additional (and optional) transition method to adopt the new leases standard. Under this new transition method, an entity initially applies the new leases standard at the adoption date and recognizes a cumulative-effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings in the period of adoption. Consequently, an entity’s reporting for the comparative periods presented in the financial statements in which it adopts the new leases standard will continue to be in accordance with current GAAP (Topic 840, Leases). The Company is currently assessing the impact that ASU No. 2016-02 will have on its consolidated financial statements. The Company has put together an inventory of all leases and accumulated the lease data necessary to apply the amended guidance. The effect of adopting this standard on January 1, 2019 was an approximate $3.8 million increase in assets and liabilities on our balance sheet. ASU No. 2016-13 - In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, “Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments.” The amendments in this ASU, among other things, require the measurement of all expected credit losses for financial assets held at the reporting date based on historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. Financial institutions and other organizations will now use forward-looking information to better inform their credit loss estimates. Many of the loss estimation techniques applied today will still be permitted, although the inputs to those techniques will change to reflect the full amount of expected credit losses. In addition, the ASU amends the accounting for credit losses on available-for-sale debt securities and purchased financial assets with credit deterioration. The amendments in this ASU are effective for SEC filers for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019. The Company believes this ASU will have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements and the method in which we calculate our credit losses, primarily on loans and held to maturity securities. At this time, the Company has established a project management team which meets periodically to discuss and assign roles and responsibilities, key tasks to complete, and a general time line to be followed for implementation. The team has been working with an advisory consultant and has purchased a vendor model for implementation. Historical data has been collected and uploaded to the new model and the team is in the process of finalizing the methodologies that will be utilized. The team expects to be running a parallel simulation to its current incurred loss impairment model in the first quarter of 2019. The Company is continuing to evaluate the extent of the potential impact of this standard and continues to keep current on evolving interpretations and industry practices via webcasts, publications, conferences, and peer bank meetings. ASU No. 2017-04 – In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-04, “Intangibles – Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment”. The amendments in this ASU simplify how an entity is required to test goodwill for impairment by eliminating Step 2 from the goodwill impairment test. Step 2 measures a goodwill impairment loss by comparing the implied fair value of a reporting unit’s goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill. Instead, under the amendments in this ASU, an entity should perform its annual, or interim, goodwill impairment test by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount. An entity still has the option to perform the qualitative assessment for a reporting unit to determine if the quantitative impairment test is necessary. Public business entities that are U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filers should adopt the amendments in this ASU for annual or interim goodwill impairment tests in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption is permitted for interim or annual goodwill impairment tests performed on testing dates after January 1, 2017. The guidance is not expected to have a significant impact on the Company’s financial positions, results of operations or disclosures. ASU No. 2017-08 – In March 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017‐08, “Receivables—Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs (Subtopic 310‐20), Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities.” The amendments in this ASU shorten the amortization period for certain callable debt securities purchased at a premium. Upon adoption of the standard, premiums on these qualifying callable debt securities will be amortized to the earliest call date. Discounts on purchased debt securities will continue to be accreted to maturity. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Upon transition, entities should apply the guidance on a modified retrospective basis, with a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings as of the beginning of the period of adoption and provide the disclosures required for a change in accounting principle. The adoption of ASU No. 2017-08 is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. ASU No. 2018-02 – In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-02, “Income Statement – Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income.” The amendments provide financial statement preparers with an option to reclassify stranded tax effects within accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings in each period in which the effect of the change in the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (or portion thereof) is recorded. The amendments are effective for all organizations for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted. Organizations should apply the proposed amendments either in the period of adoption or retrospectively to each period (or periods) in which the effect of the change in the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is recognized. The Company elected to reclassify the stranded income tax effects from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in the financial statements for the period ending December 31, 2017. The amount of this reclassification in 2017 was $226 thousand. ASU No. 2018-07 - In June 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-07, “Compensation- Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Nonemployee Share-Based Payment Accounting.” The amendments expand the scope of Topic 718 to include share-based payments issued to non-employees for goods or services, which were previously excluded. The amendments will align the accounting for share-based payments to nonemployees and employees more similarly. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted. The adoption of ASU No. 2018-07 is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. ASU No. 2018-13 – In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-13, “Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework—Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement.” The amendments modify the disclosure requirements in Topic 820 to add disclosures regarding changes in unrealized gains and losses, the range and weighted average of significant unobservable inputs used to develop Level 3 fair value measurements and the narrative description of measurement uncertainty. Certain disclosure requirements in Topic 820 are also removed or modified. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Certain of the amendments are to be applied prospectively while others are to be applied retrospectively. Early adoption is permitted. As ASU No. 2018-13 only revises disclosure requirements, it will not have a material impact on the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements.

NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Shore Bancshares, Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively referred to in these Notes as the “Company”), with all significant intercompany transactions eliminated. The investments in subsidiaries are recorded on the Company’s books (Parent only) on the basis of its equity in the net assets of the subsidiaries. The accounting and reporting policies of the Company conform to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). For purposes of comparability, certain reclassifications have been made to amounts previously reported to conform with the current period presentation.

Nature of Operations

The Company engages in the banking business through Shore United Bank, a Maryland commercial bank with trust powers. The Company’s primary source of revenue is interest earned on commercial, real estate and consumer loans made to customers located in Maryland, Delaware and the Eastern Shore of Virginia. The Company engages in the trust services business through the trust department at Shore United Bank under the trade name Wye Financial & Trust.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements, and affect the reported amounts of revenues earned and expenses incurred during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Estimates that could change significantly relate to the determination of the allowance for loan losses, the determination of fair values related to impaired loans and other real estate owned, fair values initially assigned in an acquisition and subsequent evaluations of the related goodwill and intangible assets for impairment, and the valuation of deferred tax assets.

Investment Securities Available for Sale

Investment securities available for sale are stated at estimated fair value based on quoted prices. They represent those debt securities which management may sell as part of its asset/liability management strategy or which may be sold in response to changing interest rates, changes in prepayment risk or other similar factors. Realized gains and losses are recorded in noninterest income and are determined on a trade date basis using the specific identification method. Premiums and discounts are amortized or accreted into interest income using the interest method over the expected lives of the individual securities. Interest on investment securities is recognized in interest income on an accrual basis. Net unrealized holding gains and losses on these securities are reported as accumulated other comprehensive income, a separate component of stockholders’ equity, net of related income taxes. Declines in the fair value of individual available-for-sale securities below their cost that are other than temporary result in write-downs of the individual securities to their fair value and are reflected in earnings as realized losses. Factors affecting the determination of whether an other-than-temporary impairment has occurred include a downgrade of the security by a rating agency, a significant deterioration in the financial condition of the issuer, or a determination that management has the intent to sell the security or will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost.

Investment Securities Held to Maturity

Investment securities held to maturity are stated at cost adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts. Purchase premiums and discounts are recognized in interest income using the interest method over the terms of the securities. The Company intends and has the ability to hold such securities until maturity. Declines in the fair value of individual held-to-maturity securities below their cost that are other than temporary result in write-downs of the individual securities to their fair value. Factors affecting the determination of whether an other-than-temporary impairment has occurred include a downgrade of the security by a rating agency, a significant deterioration in the financial condition of the issuer, or a determination that management has the intent to sell the security or will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost.

Equity Securities

Equity securities with readily determinable fair values are carried at fair value, with changes in fair value reported in net income. Any equity securities without readily determinable fair values are carried at cost, minus impairment, if any, plus or minus changes resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for identical or similar investments. Restricted equity securities are carried at cost and are periodically evaluated for impairment based on the ultimate recovery of par value. The entirety of any impairment on equity securities is recognized in earnings.

Loans

Loans are stated at their principal amount outstanding net of any deferred fees, premiums, discounts and costs and net of any partial charge-offs. Interest income on loans is accrued at the contractual rate based on the principal amount outstanding. Fees charged and costs capitalized for originating loans are being amortized substantially on the interest method over the term of the loan. A loan is placed on nonaccrual (i.e., interest income is no longer accrued) when it is specifically determined to be impaired or when principal or interest is delinquent for 90 days or more, unless the loan is well secured and in the process of collection. Any unpaid interest previously accrued on those loans is reversed from income. Interest payments received on nonaccrual loans are applied as a reduction of the loan principal balance unless collectability of the principal amount is reasonably assured, in which case interest is recognized on a cash basis. Loans are returned to accrual status when all principal and interest amounts contractually due are brought current and future payments are reasonably assured.

A loan is considered impaired if it is probable that the Company will not collect all principal and interest payments according to the loan’s contractual terms. An impaired loan may show deficiencies in the borrower’s overall financial condition, payment history, support available from financial guarantors and/or the fair market value of collateral. The impairment of a loan is measured at the present value of expected future cash flows using the loan’s effective interest rate, or at the loan’s observable market price or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. Generally, the Company measures impairment on such loans by reference to the fair value of the collateral. Once the amount of impairment has been determined, the uncollectible portion is charged off. Income on impaired loans is recognized on a cash basis, and payments are first applied against the principal balance outstanding (i.e., placing impaired loans on nonaccrual status). Generally, interest income is not recognized on impaired loans unless the likelihood of further loss is remote. The allowance for credit losses may include specific reserves related to impaired loans. Specific reserves remain until charge offs are made. Impaired loans do not include groups of smaller balance homogeneous loans such as residential mortgage and consumer installment loans that are evaluated collectively for impairment. Reserves for probable credit losses related to these loans are based on historical loss ratios and an analysis of qualitative factors and are included in the formula portion of the allowance for credit losses. See additional discussion below under the section, “Allowance for Credit Losses”.

A loan is considered a troubled debt restructuring (“TDR”) if a borrower is experiencing financial difficulties and a creditor has granted a concession. Concessions may include interest rate reductions or below market interest rates, principal forgiveness, restructuring amortization schedules and other actions intended to minimize potential losses. Loans are identified to be restructured when signs of impairment arise such as borrower interest rate reduction request, slowness to pay, or when an inability to repay becomes evident. The terms being offered are evaluated to determine if they are more liberal than those that would be indicated by policy or industry standards for similar, untroubled credits. In those situations where the terms or the interest rates are considered to be more favorable than industry standards or the current underwriting guidelines of the Company’s banking subsidiary, the loan is classified as a TDR. All loans designated as TDRs are considered impaired loans and may be on either accrual or nonaccrual status. In instances where the loan has been placed on nonaccrual status, six consecutive months of timely payments are required prior to returning the loan to accrual status.

All loans classified as TDRs which are restructured and accrue interest under revised terms require a full and comprehensive review of the borrower’s financial condition, capacity for repayment, realistic assessment of collateral values, and the assessment of risk entered into any workout agreement. Current financial information on the borrower, guarantor, and underlying collateral is analyzed to determine if it supports the ultimate collection of principal and interest. For commercial loans, the cash flows are analyzed, both for the underlying project and globally. For consumer loans, updated salary, credit history and cash flow information is obtained. Current market conditions are also considered. Following a full analysis, the determination of the appropriate loan structure is made. The Company does not participate in any specific government or Company sponsored loan modification programs. All TDR loan agreements are contracts negotiated with each of the borrowers.

Allowance for Credit Losses

The allowance for credit losses is maintained at a level believed adequate by management to absorb losses inherent in the loan portfolio as of the balance sheet date and is based on the size and current risk characteristics of the loan portfolio, an assessment of individual problem loans and actual loss experience, current economic events in specific industries and geographical areas, including unemployment levels, and other pertinent factors, including regulatory guidance and general economic conditions and other observable data. Determination of the allowance is inherently subjective as it requires significant estimates, including the amounts and timing of expected future cash flows or collateral value of impaired loans, estimated losses on pools of homogeneous loans that are based on historical loss experience, and consideration of current economic trends, all of which may be susceptible to significant change. Loans, or portions thereof, that are considered uncollectible are charged off against the allowance, while recoveries of amounts previously charged off are credited to the allowance. The criteria for charge offs are addressed in the Bank’s Collection and Workout Policy. Per the policy, the recognition of the loss of loans or portions of loans will occur when there is a reasonable probability of loss. When the amount of loss can be readily calculated, the loss will be recognized. In cases where a probable charge-off amount cannot be calculated, specific reserves will be maintained. A provision for credit losses is charged to income based on management’s periodic evaluation of the factors previously mentioned, as well as other pertinent factors. Evaluations are conducted at least quarterly and more often if deemed necessary.

The allowance for credit losses is an estimate of the losses that may be sustained in the loan portfolio. The allowance is based on two basic principles of accounting: (i) Topic 450, “ Contingencies ”, of the Financial Accounting Standards Board’s Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”), which requires that losses be accrued when they are probable of occurring and estimable; and (ii) ASC Topic 310, “ Receivables ”, which requires that losses be accrued based on the differences between the loan balance and the value of collateral, present value of future cash flows or values that are observable in the secondary market. Management uses many factors to estimate the inherent loss that may be present in our loan portfolio, including economic conditions and trends, the value and adequacy of collateral, the volume and mix of the loan portfolio, and our internal loan processes. Actual losses could differ significantly from management’s estimates. In addition, GAAP itself may change from one previously acceptable method to another. Although the economics of transactions would be the same, the timing of events that would impact the transactions could change.

Three basic components comprise our allowance for credit losses: (i) the specific allowance; (ii) the historical formula allowance; and (iii) the qualitative formula allowance. Each component is determined based on estimates that can and do change when the actual events occur. The specific allowance is established against impaired loans (i.e., nonaccrual loans and troubled debt restructurings (“TDRs”)) based on our assessment of the losses that may be associated with the individual loans. The specific allowance remains until charge-offs are made. An impaired loan may show deficiencies in the borrower’s overall financial condition, payment history, support available from financial guarantors and/or the fair market value of collateral.

The historical formula allowance is used to estimate the loss on internally risk-rated loans, exclusive of those identified as impaired. Loans are grouped by type (construction, residential real estate, commercial real estate, commercial or consumer). Each loan type is assigned allowance factors based on management’s estimate of the risk, complexity and size of individual loans within a particular category using average historical charge-offs by segment over the last 16 quarters. Loans identified as pass-watch, special mention, substandard, and doubtful are considered to have elevated credit risk. These loans are assigned higher allowance factors than favorably rated loans due to management’s concerns regarding collectability or management’s knowledge of particular elements regarding the borrower. The qualitative formula allowance captures losses that have impacted the portfolio but have yet to be recognized in either the specific or historical formula allowance. A pass-watch loan has adequate risk and may include loans which may have been upgraded from another higher risk category. A special mention loan has potential weaknesses that could result in a future loss to the Company if the weaknesses are realized. A substandard loan has certain deficiencies that could result in a future loss to the Company if these deficiencies are not corrected. A doubtful loan has enough risk that there is a high probability that the Company will sustain a loss.

Management has significant discretion in making the adjustments inherent in the determination of the provision and allowance for credit losses, including in connection with the valuation of collateral, the estimation of a borrower’s prospects of repayment, and the establishment of the allowance factors in the formula allowance and unallocated allowance components of the allowance. The establishment of allowance factors is a continuing exercise, based on management’s ongoing assessment of the totality of all factors, including, but not limited to, delinquencies, loss history, trends in volume and terms of loans, effects of changes in lending policy, the experience and depth of management, national and local economic trends, concentrations of credit, the quality of the loan review system and the effect of external factors such as competition and regulatory requirements, and their impact on the portfolio. Allowance factors may change from period to period, resulting in an increase or decrease in the amount of the provision or allowance, based on the same volume and classification of loans. Changes in allowance factors will have a direct impact on the amount of the provision, and a corresponding effect on net income. Errors in management’s perception and assessment of these factors and their impact on the portfolio could result in the allowance not being adequate to cover losses in the portfolio, and may result in additional provisions or charge-offs.

Premises and Equipment

Land is carried at cost and premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization are calculated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Useful lives range from three to 10 years for furniture, fixtures and equipment; three to five years for computer hardware and data handling equipment; and 10 to 40 years for buildings and building improvements. Land improvements are amortized over a period of 15 years and leasehold improvements are amortized over the term of the respective lease. Sale-leaseback transactions are considered normal leasebacks and any realized gains are deferred and amortized to other income on a straight-line basis over the initial lease term. Maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred, while improvements which extend the useful life of an asset are capitalized and depreciated over the estimated remaining life of the asset.

Long-lived assets are evaluated periodically for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount may not be recoverable. Impairment exists when the expected undiscounted future cash flows of a long-lived asset are less than its carrying value. In that event, the Company recognizes a loss for the difference between the carrying amount and the estimated fair value of the asset.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of the net assets acquired. Other intangible assets represent purchased assets that also lack physical substance but can be distinguished from goodwill because of contractual or other legal rights or because the asset is capable of being sold or exchanged either on its own or in combination with a related contract, asset or liability. Goodwill and other intangible assets are initially required to be recorded at fair value. Determining fair value is subjective, requiring the use of estimates, assumptions and management judgment.

Goodwill and other intangible assets with indefinite lives are tested at least annually for impairment, usually during the fourth quarter, or on an interim basis if circumstances dictate. Intangible assets that have finite lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives and also are subject to impairment testing.

Impairment testing requires that the fair value of each of the Company’s reporting units be compared to the carrying amount of its net assets, including goodwill. If the fair value of a reporting unit is less than book value, an expense may be required to write down the related goodwill or purchased intangibles to record an impairment loss. As of December 31, 2018, the Company had one reporting unit and operating segment the (i.e., the Bank).

During the fourth quarter of 2018 and 2017, goodwill and other intangible assets were subjected to the annual assessment for impairment. As a result of the assessment, it was determined that it was not more likely than not that the fair values of the Company’s reporting units were less than their carrying amounts so no impairment was recorded.

Other Real Estate Owned

Other real estate owned represents assets acquired in satisfaction of loans either by foreclosure or deeds taken in lieu of foreclosure. Properties acquired are recorded at fair value less estimated selling costs at the time of acquisition, establishing a new cost basis. Thereafter, costs incurred to operate or carry the properties as well as reductions in value as determined by periodic appraisals are charged to operating expense. Gains and losses resulting from the final disposition of the properties are included in noninterest income.

Borrowings

Short-term and long-term borrowings are comprised primarily of FHLB borrowings. A portion of the Company’s short-term borrowings are repurchase agreements. The repurchase agreements are securities sold to the Company’s customers, at the customers’ request, under a continuing “roll-over” contract that matures in one business day. The underlying securities sold are U.S. Government agency securities, which are segregated from the Company’s other investment securities by its safekeeping agents.

Income Taxes

The Company and its subsidiaries file a consolidated federal income tax return. The Company accounts for income taxes using the liability method in accordance with required accounting guidance. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined by applying the applicable federal and state income tax rates to cumulative temporary differences. These temporary differences represent differences between financial statement carrying amounts and the corresponding tax bases of certain assets and liabilities. Deferred taxes result from such temporary differences.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance, if needed, reduces deferred tax assets to the expected amount most likely to be realized. Realization of deferred tax assets is dependent on the generation of a sufficient level of future taxable income, recoverable taxes paid in prior years and tax planning strategies. The Company evaluates all positive and negative evidence before determining if a valuation allowance is deemed necessary regarding the realization of deferred tax assets.

The Company recognizes accrued interest and penalties as a component of tax expense. Significant judgement is required in evaluating the Company’s uncertain tax positions and determining its provision for income taxes.

The U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (“Tax Act”) was enacted on December 22, 2017 and introduced significant changes to U.S. income tax law. Effective in 2018, the Tax Act reduces the U.S. statutory tax rate from 35% to 21% and creates new taxes on certain foreign-sourced earnings and certain related-party payments, which are referred to as the global intangible low-taxes income tax and base erosion tax, respectively. In addition, in 2017 the Company was subject to a one-time transition tax on accumulated foreign subsidiary earnings not previously subject to U.S. income tax. Accounting for the income tax effects of the Tax Act required significant judgements and estimates in the interpretation and calculations of the provisions of the Tax Act.

The provision for income taxes includes the impact of reserve provisions and changes in the reserves that are considered appropriate as well as the related net interest and penalties. In addition, the Company is subject to the continuous examination of its income tax returns by the IRS and other tax authorities which may assert assessments against the Company. The Company regularly assesses the likelihood of adverse outcomes resulting from these examinations and assessments to determine the adequacy of its provision for income taxes. The Company remains subject to examination for tax years ending on or after December 31, 2015.

Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Common Share

Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income available to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding and does not include the effect of any potentially dilutive common stock equivalents. Included in this calculation due to dividend participation rights are restricted stock awards which have been granted. Diluted earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of shares outstanding, adjusted for the effect of any potentially dilutive common stock equivalents.

Transfers of Financial Assets

Transfers of financial assets are accounted for as sales, when control over the assets has been surrendered. Control over transferred assets is deemed to be surrendered when (i) the assets have been isolated from the Company, (ii) the transferee obtains the right (free of conditions that constrain it from taking advantage of that right) to pledge or exchange the transferred assets, and (iii) the Company does not maintain effective control over the transferred assets through an agreement to repurchase them before their maturity.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and due from banks, interest-bearing deposits with other banks and federal funds sold are considered “cash and cash equivalents” for financial reporting purposes. Certain interest-bearing deposits with banks may exceed balances that are recoverable under Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) insurance. Balances in excess of FDIC insurance at December 31, 2018 were approximately $2.0 million.

Share-Based Compensation

The Company may grant share-based compensation to employees and non-employee directors in the form of restricted stock, restricted stock units and stock options. The fair value of restricted stock is determined based on the closing price of the Parent’s common stock on the date of grant. The Company recognizes compensation expense related to restricted stock on a straight-line basis over the vesting period for service-based awards, plus additional recognition of costs associated with accelerated vesting based on the projected attainment of Company performance measures. Restricted stock units (“RSUs”) are payable solely in cash which are accounted for as other liabilities in the consolidated statements of condition. The fair value of RSUs is initially valued based on the closing price of the Parent’s common stock on the date of grant and is amortized in the statement of income over the vesting period. The RSUs are subsequently remeasured in the same manner described above at the end of each reporting period until settlement. The fair value of stock options is estimated at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and related assumptions. The Company uses historical data to predict option exercise and employee termination behavior. Expected volatilities are based on the historical volatility of the Parent’s common stock. The expected term of options granted is derived from actual historical exercise activity and represents the period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding. The risk-free rate is derived from the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant based on the expected life of the option. The dividend yield is equal to the dividend yield of the Parent’s common stock at the time of grant. The timing of the expense related to stock options reflects estimated forfeitures, adjusted for actual forfeiture experience. Expense related to stock options is recorded in the statements of income as a component of salaries and benefits for employees and as a component of other noninterest expense for non-employee directors, with a corresponding increase to capital surplus in shareholders’ equity. As the expense related to stock options is recognized, a deferred tax asset is established that represents an estimate of future income tax deductions from the release of restrictions or the exercise of stock options. See Note 13 for a further discussion.

Fair Value

The Company measures certain financial assets and liabilities at fair value, with the measurements made on a recurring or nonrecurring basis. Significant financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis are investment securities available for sale. Impaired loans and other real estate owned are significant financial instruments measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. Fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. In determining fair value, the Company is required to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs, reducing subjectivity. See Note 20 for a further discussion of fair value.

Advertising Costs

Advertising costs are generally expensed as incurred. The Company incurred advertising costs for continuing operations of approximately $509 thousand for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

Comprehensive Income

Changes in unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities is the only component of accumulated other comprehensive income for the Company. There were no reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in 2018. In 2017, the amount reclassified out of other accumulated comprehensive income (loss) was a gain on call of available-for-sale securities of $5 thousand. The related tax effect for the reclassification was $2 thousand.

In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-02, “Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (“AOCI”). The Company early adopted this new standard in 2017. ASU 2018-01 requires reclassification from AOCI to retained earnings for stranded tax effects resulting from the impact of newly enacted federal corporate income tax rate on items included in AOCI. The amount of this reclassification in 2017 was $226 thousand.

Discontinued Operations

During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company completed the sale of its Insurance Agency, Avon Dixon (“Avon”), which represented the Company's Insurance segment. In accordance with ASC 205-20, the Company determined that the sale of Avon and the discontinued operation of the Company’s Premium Finance Company, Mubell Finance, LLC (“Mubell”), assets and liabilities that will be sold or settled separately within one year met the criteria to be classified as a discontinued operation and the related operating results and financial condition have been presented as discontinued operations on the consolidated financial statements. See Note 2 for additional information. Unless otherwise indicated, information included in these notes to the consolidated financial statements is presented on a consolidated operations basis, which includes results from both continuing and discontinued operations, for all periods presented.

Segment Reporting

In connection with the sale of Avon and the discontinued operation of Mubell, which represented the Company's Insurance segment, the Company reassessed its reportable operating segments. Based on this internal evaluation, the Company determined that its previously disclosed reportable segment, Insurance products and services, is no longer applicable. Accordingly, to better reflect how the Company is now managed and how information is reviewed by the chief operating decision maker, the Company's chief executive officer, the Company determined that all services offered by the Company relate to Commercial Banking. As a result, the Company's only reportable segment is Commercial Banking.

Recent Accounting Standards

ASU No. 2016-02 - In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842).” Among other things, in the amendments in ASU 2016-02, lessees will be required to recognize the following for all leases (with the exception of short-term leases) at the commencement date: (1) A lease liability, which is a lessee‘s obligation to make lease payments arising from a lease, measured on a discounted basis; and (2) A right-of-use asset, which is an asset that represents the lessee’s right to use, or control the use of, a specified asset for the lease term. Under the new guidance, lessor accounting is largely unchanged. Certain targeted improvements were made to align, where necessary, lessor accounting with the lessee accounting model and Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. The amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Lessees (for capital and operating leases) and lessors (for sales-type, direct financing, and operating leases) must apply a modified retrospective transition approach for leases existing at, or entered into after, the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the financial statements. The modified retrospective approach would not require any transition accounting for leases that expired before the earliest comparative period presented. Lessees and lessors may not apply a full retrospective transition approach. The FASB made subsequent amendments to Topic 842 in July 2018 through ASU 2018-10 (“Codification Improvements to Topic 842, Leases.”) and ASU 2018-11 (“Leases (Topic 842): Targeted Improvements.”) Among these amendments is the provision in ASU 2018-11 that provides entities with an additional (and optional) transition method to adopt the new leases standard. Under this new transition method, an entity initially applies the new leases standard at the adoption date and recognizes a cumulative-effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings in the period of adoption. Consequently, an entity’s reporting for the comparative periods presented in the financial statements in which it adopts the new leases standard will continue to be in accordance with current GAAP (Topic 840, Leases). The Company is currently assessing the impact that ASU No. 2016-02 will have on its consolidated financial statements. The Company has put together an inventory of all leases and accumulated the lease data necessary to apply the amended guidance. The effect of adopting this standard on January 1, 2019 was an approximate $3.8 million increase in assets and liabilities on our balance sheet.

ASU No. 2016-13 - In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, “Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments.” The amendments in this ASU, among other things, require the measurement of all expected credit losses for financial assets held at the reporting date based on historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. Financial institutions and other organizations will now use forward-looking information to better inform their credit loss estimates. Many of the loss estimation techniques applied today will still be permitted, although the inputs to those techniques will change to reflect the full amount of expected credit losses. In addition, the ASU amends the accounting for credit losses on available-for-sale debt securities and purchased financial assets with credit deterioration. The amendments in this ASU are effective for SEC filers for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019. The Company believes this ASU will have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements and the method in which we calculate our credit losses, primarily on loans and held to maturity securities. At this time, the Company has established a project management team which meets periodically to discuss and assign roles and responsibilities, key tasks to complete, and a general time line to be followed for implementation. The team has been working with an advisory consultant and has purchased a vendor model for implementation. Historical data has been collected and uploaded to the new model and the team is in the process of finalizing the methodologies that will be utilized. The team expects to be running a parallel simulation to its current incurred loss impairment model in the first quarter of 2019. The Company is continuing to evaluate the extent of the potential impact of this standard and continues to keep current on evolving interpretations and industry practices via webcasts, publications, conferences, and peer bank meetings.

ASU No. 2017-04 – In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-04, “Intangibles – Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment”. The amendments in this ASU simplify how an entity is required to test goodwill for impairment by eliminating Step 2 from the goodwill impairment test. Step 2 measures a goodwill impairment loss by comparing the implied fair value of a reporting unit’s goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill. Instead, under the amendments in this ASU, an entity should perform its annual, or interim, goodwill impairment test by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount. An entity still has the option to perform the qualitative assessment for a reporting unit to determine if the quantitative impairment test is necessary. Public business entities that are U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filers should adopt the amendments in this ASU for annual or interim goodwill impairment tests in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption is permitted for interim or annual goodwill impairment tests performed on testing dates after January 1, 2017. The guidance is not expected to have a significant impact on the Company’s financial positions, results of operations or disclosures.

ASU No. 2017-08 – In March 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017‐08, “Receivables—Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs (Subtopic 310‐20), Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities.” The amendments in this ASU shorten the amortization period for certain callable debt securities purchased at a premium. Upon adoption of the standard, premiums on these qualifying callable debt securities will be amortized to the earliest call date. Discounts on purchased debt securities will continue to be accreted to maturity. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Upon transition, entities should apply the guidance on a modified retrospective basis, with a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings as of the beginning of the period of adoption and provide the disclosures required for a change in accounting principle. The adoption of ASU No. 2017-08 is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

ASU No. 2018-02 – In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-02, “Income Statement – Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income.” The amendments provide financial statement preparers with an option to reclassify stranded tax effects within accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings in each period in which the effect of the change in the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (or portion thereof) is recorded. The amendments are effective for all organizations for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted. Organizations should apply the proposed amendments either in the period of adoption or retrospectively to each period (or periods) in which the effect of the change in the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is recognized. The Company elected to reclassify the stranded income tax effects from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in the financial statements for the period ending December 31, 2017. The amount of this reclassification in 2017 was $226 thousand.

ASU No. 2018-07 - In June 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-07, “Compensation- Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Nonemployee Share-Based Payment Accounting.” The amendments expand the scope of Topic 718 to include share-based payments issued to non-employees for goods or services, which were previously excluded. The amendments will align the accounting for share-based payments to nonemployees and employees more similarly. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted. The adoption of ASU No. 2018-07 is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

ASU No. 2018-13 – In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-13, “Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework—Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement.” The amendments modify the disclosure requirements in Topic 820 to add disclosures regarding changes in unrealized gains and losses, the range and weighted average of significant unobservable inputs used to develop Level 3 fair value measurements and the narrative description of measurement uncertainty. Certain disclosure requirements in Topic 820 are also removed or modified. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Certain of the amendments are to be applied prospectively while others are to be applied retrospectively. Early adoption is permitted. As ASU No. 2018-13 only revises disclosure requirements, it will not have a material impact on the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements.