-----BEGIN PRIVACY-ENHANCED MESSAGE----- Proc-Type: 2001,MIC-CLEAR Originator-Name: webmaster@www.sec.gov Originator-Key-Asymmetric: MFgwCgYEVQgBAQICAf8DSgAwRwJAW2sNKK9AVtBzYZmr6aGjlWyK3XmZv3dTINen TWSM7vrzLADbmYQaionwg5sDW3P6oaM5D3tdezXMm7z1T+B+twIDAQAB MIC-Info: RSA-MD5,RSA, O4yCjldDMkb9d2LLEriinUgH21sBPVT8rwPu/kzwmiCZo73t2Mli/pVrW8REAM4w uVXqCiRecu0/oFmRmcaNcA== 0000950168-00-000761.txt : 20000329 0000950168-00-000761.hdr.sgml : 20000329 ACCESSION NUMBER: 0000950168-00-000761 CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE: 10KSB PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT: 4 CONFORMED PERIOD OF REPORT: 19991231 FILED AS OF DATE: 20000328 FILER: COMPANY DATA: COMPANY CONFORMED NAME: ECB BANCORP INC CENTRAL INDEX KEY: 0001066254 STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION: STATE COMMERCIAL BANKS [6022] IRS NUMBER: 562090738 STATE OF INCORPORATION: NC FISCAL YEAR END: 1231 FILING VALUES: FORM TYPE: 10KSB SEC ACT: SEC FILE NUMBER: 000-24753 FILM NUMBER: 581377 BUSINESS ADDRESS: STREET 1: P O BOX 337 STREET 2: HWY 264 CITY: ENGELHARD STATE: NC ZIP: 27824 BUSINESS PHONE: 2529259411 10KSB 1 ECB BANCORP, INC. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549 FORM 10-KSB ANNUAL REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1999 COMMISSION FILE NO. 0-24753 ECB BANCORP, INC. ------------------------------------------------------------------- (Name of small business issuer in its charter) - ----------------------------------------------- ----- ------------------------- NORTH CAROLINA 56-2090738 - ----------------------------------------------- -------------------------- (State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer incorporation or organization) Identification No.) - ----------------------------------------------- ----- ------------------------- - ----------------------------------------------- ----- ------------------------- POST OFFICE BOX 337 ENGELHARD, NORTH CAROLINA 27824 - ----------------------------------------------- ----- ------------------------- (Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code) - ----------------------------------------------- ----- ------------------------- (252) 925-9411 -------------------------------------------------------------- Registrant's telephone number, including area code Securities registered under Section 12(b) of the Act: NONE -----------------
Securities registered under Section 12(g) of the Act: COMMON STOCK, $3.50 PAR VALUE PER SHARE ----------------------------------------- (Title of class) Check whether the issuer (1) filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act during the past 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 X NO ------ ------ Check if disclosure of delinquent filers in response to Item 405 of Regulation S-B is not contained in this form, and no disclosure will be contained, to the best of Registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-KSB or any amendment to this Form 10-KSB. [ X ] Registrant's revenues for its most recent fiscal year were:. $ 17,957,609 --------------
On March 23, 2000, the aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by nonaffiliates (computed by reference to the price at which the common equity was sold, or the average bid and asked price of such common equity) was $14,866,560 . ----------- On March 23, 2000, the number of outstanding shares of Registrant's common stock was 2,120,854. --------- DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE Portions of Registrant's Annual Report to Shareholders for the year ended December 31, 1999, are incorporated herein in Part II. Portions of Registrant's definitive Proxy Statement dated March 20, 2000, are incorporated herein in Part III. 1 PART I ITEM 1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS GENERAL. Registrant is a bank holding company headquartered in Engelhard, North Carolina. Registrant operates through, and its principal asset is its investment in, The East Carolina Bank (the "Bank") which operates as Registrant's wholly-owned subsidiary. Registrant was organized on March 4, 1998, by the Bank and at the direction of the Bank's Board of Directors, to serve as the Bank's parent holding company. Effective July 22, 1998, and to effect the reorganization, (i) an "interim bank" subsidiary of Registrant (newly formed for the purpose of such transaction) was merged into the Bank (with the Bank as the surviving corporation), (ii) the outstanding shares of the Bank's common stock were converted into an identical number of shares of Registrant's Common Stock with the result that the then current shareholders of the Bank became shareholders of Registrant (with the same relative ownership interests that they had in the Bank) and (iii) Registrant became the Bank's sole shareholder. The Bank continues to exist under its separate charter and bylaws but as the wholly-owned subsidiary of Registrant, and continues to conduct its banking business at all its previous banking offices. THE BANK. The Bank is an FDIC-insured, North Carolina-chartered bank which was organized in 1919 and is engaged in a general, community-oriented commercial and consumer banking business. The Bank currently maintains 15 full-service banking offices in six counties in North Carolina, together with one mortgage loan production office, and its deposits are insured under the FDIC's Bank Insurance Fund ("BIF") to the maximum amount permitted by law. The Bank has two wholly-owned subsidiaries. Carolina Financial Realty, Inc. ("CFR") holds title to five of the Bank's branch offices which it leases to the Bank. The second subsidiary, Carolina Financial Courier, Inc., formerly provided courier services to the Bank but currently contracts with a third-party for such services. The Bank's operations are primarily retail oriented and directed toward individuals, small- and medium-sized businesses and local governmental units located in its banking markets, and its deposits and loans are derived primarily from customers in its banking markets. While the Bank provides most traditional commercial and consumer banking services, its principal activities are the taking of demand and time deposits and the making of secured and unsecured loans. The Bank's primary source of revenue is interest income from its lending activities, and it has pursued a strategy of growth through internal expansion by establishing branch offices in communities within its banking markets. The Bank's banking markets are located in the east central and northeastern portions of North Carolina and along North Carolina's Outer Banks. The Bank makes a variety of types of consumer and commercial loans to individuals and small- and medium-sized businesses located primarily in its banking markets for various personal, business and agricultural purposes, including term and installment loans, equity lines of credit and overdraft checking credit. The Bank's deposit services include business and individual checking accounts, savings accounts, NOW accounts, certificates of deposit and money market checking accounts. It is the Bank's policy to monitor its competition in order to keep the rates paid on its deposits at a competitive level. The Bank's 2 banking markets include primarily smaller communities where its emphasis on customer service provides it with a stable source of core funding. The vast majority of the Bank's deposits are generated from within its banking markets, and the Bank does not accept brokered deposits but does actively solicit public funds deposits in its markets. COMPETITION. The Bank competes for deposits in its banking markets with other commercial banks, savings banks and other thrift institutions, credit unions, agencies issuing United States government securities and all other organizations and institutions engaged in money market transactions. In its lending activities, the Bank competes with all other financial institutions as well as consumer finance companies, mortgage companies and other lenders. Commercial banking in the Bank's banking markets and in North Carolina as a whole is extremely competitive. North Carolina is the home of three of the largest commercial banks in the Southeast, each of which has branches located in certain of the Bank's markets, and 14 other commercial banks, thrift institutions and credit unions also are represented in its banking markets. Interest rates, both on loans and deposits, and prices of fee-based services, are significant competitive factors among financial institutions generally. Other important competitive factors include office location, office hours, the quality of customer service, community reputation, continuity of personnel and services, and, in the case of larger commercial customers, relative lending limits and the ability to offer more sophisticated cash management and other commercial banking services. Many of the Bank's competitors have greater resources, broader geographic markets and higher lending limits than the Bank, and they can offer more products and services and can better afford and make more effective use of media advertising, support services and electronic technology than can the Bank. The Bank depends on its reputation as a community bank in its local markets, its direct customer contact, its ability to make credit and other business decisions locally, and its personalized service, to counter these competitive disadvantages. In recent years, federal and state legislation has heightened the competitive environment in which all financial institutions must conduct their business, and the potential for competition among financial institutions of all types has increased significantly. Additionally, with the elimination of restrictions on interstate banking, a North Carolina commercial bank may be required to compete not only with other North Carolina-based financial institutions, but also with out-of-state financial institutions which may acquire North Carolina institutions, establish or acquire branch offices in North Carolina, or otherwise offer financial services across state lines, thereby adding to the competitive atmosphere of the industry in general. In terms of assets, the Bank is one of the smaller commercial banks in North Carolina, and there is no assurance that the Bank will be or continue to be an effective competitor in the current financial services environment. SUPERVISION AND REGULATION. Registrant is a bank holding company registered with the Federal Reserve Board (the "FRB") under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended (the "BHCA") and, as such, is subject to supervision and examination by, and the regulations and reporting requirements of, the FRB under the BHCA. Registrant's activities are limited to those permitted for bank holding companies under the BHCA, and it is required to obtain the prior approval of the FRB before it may acquire direct or indirect control of more than 5% of the outstanding voting stock, or substantially all of the assets of, any other financial institution or bank holding company. Additionally, the BHCA prohibits Registrant from acquiring ownership or control of more than 5% of the outstanding voting stock of any company engaged in an activity that is not permitted for bank holding companies. Bank holding companies are required to serve as a source of financial strength for its depository institution subsidiaries, and, if their depository institution subsidiaries become undercapitalized, bank holding companies may be required to guarantee the subsidiaries' compliance with capital restoration plans filed with their regulators, subject to certain limits. As an insured, state-chartered bank that is not a member of the Federal Reserve System, the Bank is subject to supervision and examination by, and the regulations and reporting requirements of, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC") and the North Carolina Commissioner of Banks (the 3 "Commissioner"). Absent approval of the FDIC, it is prohibited from engaging as principal in activities that are not permitted for national banks, and it is prohibited from acquiring or retaining any equity investment of a type not permitted for national banks. As a subsidiary of Registrant, the Bank subject to restrictions under Federal law on the amount of, and its ability to enter into, transactions with, or investments in the securities of, Registrant and other entities considered to be "affiliates" of the Bank. Though it is not a member of the Federal Reserve System, the Bank is subject to the FRB's reserve requirements applicable to all banks, and its business is significantly influenced by the fiscal policies of the FRB. The actions and policy directives of the FRB determine to a significant degree the Bank's cost and the availability of funds and the rates of interest charged on its loans and paid on its deposits. The FRB, the FDIC and the Commissioner have broad powers to enforce laws and regulations applicable to Registrant and the Bank and to require corrective action of conditions affecting the Bank's safety and soundness. Among others, these powers include cease and desist orders, the imposition of civil penalties and the removal of officers and directors. EMPLOYEES. Registrant does not have any separate employees. As of December 31, 1999, the Bank employed 143 full-time employees (including its and Registrant's executive officers) and 16 part-time employees. The Bank and its employees are not parties to any collective bargaining agreement, and the Bank considers its relations with its employees to be good. ITEM 2. DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY. Registrant's offices are located in the Bank's corporate offices in Engelhard, North Carolina, and Registrant does not own or lease any separate properties. The Bank maintains the following 15 offices, seven of which it owns, five of which are owned by CFR and leased to the Bank, two of which are held under leases with unaffiliated third parties, and one of which was constructed by the Bank on property held under a ground lease with an unaffiliated third party. All of the Bank's existing banking offices are in good condition and fully equipped for the Bank's purposes.
CENTRAL REGION: Engelhard main banking and corporate office (owned) Swan Quarter branch office (owned) Fairfield branch office (leased from CFR) Columbia branch office (leased from CFR) Creswell branch office (owned) Washington branch office (leased) WESTERN REGION: Greenville Arlington branch office (owned) Greenville University Medical Center branch office (owned) OUTER BANKS REGION: Barco branch office (ground lease) Southern Shores/Kitty Hawk branch office (leased from CFR) Nags Head branch office (leased from CFR) Manteo branch office (owned) Avon branch office (leased) Hatteras branch office (leased from CFR) Ocracoke branch office (owned)
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS. 4 At December 31, 1999, Registrant was not a party to any legal proceeding that is expected to have a material effect on its financial condition or results of operations. ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS. Not applicable. PART II ITEM 5. MARKET FOR COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS Incorporated herein by reference to page 8 of Registrant's 1999 Annual Report to Shareholders. ITEM 6. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OR PLAN OF OPERATION. Incorporated herein by reference to pages 29 through 43 of Registrant's 1999 Annual Report to Shareholders. ITEM 7. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS. Incorporated herein by reference to pages 11 through 28 of Registrant's 1999 Annual Report to Shareholders. ITEM 8. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE. Not applicable. PART III ITEM 9. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS, PROMOTERS AND CONTROL PERSONS; COMPLIANCE WITH SECTION 16(A) OF THE EXCHANGE ACT. Incorporated herein by reference from pages 3 through 5 (under the captions "Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance," "Proposal 1: Election of Directors" and "Executive Officers") of Registrant's definitive Proxy Statement dated March 20, 2000. ITEM 10. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION. Incorporated herein by reference from pages 5 through 7 (under the caption "Director Compensation," "Executive Compensation" and "Stock Options") of Registrant's definitive Proxy Statement dated March 20, 2000. ITEM 11. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT. Incorporated herein by reference to page 2 (under the caption "Beneficial Ownership of Securities") of Registrant's definitive Proxy Statement dated March 20, 2000. ITEM 12. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS. Incorporated herein by reference to page 7 (under the caption "Transactions with Management") of Registrant's definitive Proxy Statement dated March 20, 2000. 5 ITEM 13. EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K. (A) EXHIBITS. The following exhibits are filed herewith or incorporated herein by reference as part of this Report. EXHIBIT NUMBER DESCRIPTION ------ ----------- 3.1 Registrant's Articles of Incorporation (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3.1 Registrant's Registration Statement on Form SB-2, Reg. No. 333-61839) 3.2 Registrant's Bylaws (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3.2 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form SB-2, Reg. No. 333-61839) 10.1 Employment Agreement between Arthur H. Keeney, III and the Bank (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.1 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form SB-2, Reg. No. 333-61839) 10.2 Omnibus Stock Ownership and Long Term Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.2 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form SB-2, Reg. No. 333-61839) 10.3 Form of Employee Stock Option Agreement (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.3 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form SB-2, Reg. No. 333-61839) 10.4 Form of Restricted Stock Agreement (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.4 to Registrant's Registration Statement Form S-8, Reg. No. 333-77689) 13.1 Registrant's 1999 Annual Report to Shareholders (filed herewith) 21 List of subsidiaries of Registrant (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 21.1 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form SB-2, Reg. No. 333-61839) 23 Consent of KPMG LLP (filed herewith) 27 Financial data schedule (filed herewith) 99 Registrant's definitive Proxy Statement dated March 20, 2000, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (not being refiled) (B) REPORTS ON FORM 8-K. None. 6 SIGNATURES In accordance with Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, Registrant caused this Report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized. ECB BANCORP, INC. DATE: MARCH 23, 2000 BY: /s/ Arthur H. Keeney, III -------------------------------------- Arthur H. Keeney, III President and Chief Executive Officer In accordance with Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this Report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
SIGNATURE TITLE DATE --------- ----- ---- /s/ Arthur H. Keeney, III President, Chief Executive March 23, 2000 - --------------------------------- Arthur H. Keeney, III Officer and Director (principal executive officer) /s/ Gary M. Adams Senior Vice President and March 23, 2000 - --------------------------------- Chief Financial Officer Gary M. Adams (principal financial and accounting officer) /s/ R. S. Spencer, Jr. Chairman March 23, 2000 - --------------------------------- R. S. Spencer, Jr. /s/ George T. Davis, Jr. Director March 23, 2000 - --------------------------------- George T. Davis, Jr. /s/ C. Gilbert Gibbs Director March 23, 2000 - --------------------------------- C. Gilbert Gibbs /s/ Gregory C. Gibbs Director March 23, 2000 - --------------------------------- Gregory C. Gibbs
7
/s/ John F. Hughes, Jr. Director March 23, 2000 - --------------------------------- John F. Hughes, Jr. /s/ J. Bryant Kittrell, III Director March 23, 2000 - --------------------------------- J. Bryant Kittrell, III Director March 23, 2000 - --------------------------------- Joseph T. Lamb, Jr. /s/ B. Martelle Marshall Director March 23, 2000 - --------------------------------- B. Martelle Marshall /s/ Robert L. Mitchell Director March 23, 2000 - --------------------------------- Robert L. Mitchell /s/ Ray M. Spencer Director March 23, 2000 - --------------------------------- Ray M. Spencer
8 EXHIBIT INDEX EXHIBIT NUMBER DESCRIPTION ------ ----------- 3.1 Registrant's Articles of Incorporation (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3.1 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form SB-2, Reg. No. 333-61839) 3.2 Registrant's Bylaws (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3.2 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form SB-2, Reg. No. 333-61839) 10.1 Employment Agreement between Arthur H. Keeney, III and the Bank (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.1 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form SB-2, Reg. No. 333-61839) 10.2 Omnibus Stock Ownership and Long Term Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.2 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form SB-2, Reg. No. 333-61839) 10.3 Form of Employee Stock Option Agreement (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.3 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form SB-2, Reg. No. 333-61839) 10.4 Form of Restricted Stock Agreement (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 99.4 to Registrant's Registration Statement Form S-8, Reg. No. 333-77689) 13.1 Registrant's 1999 Annual Report to Shareholders (filed herewith) 21 List of subsidiaries of Registrant (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 21.1 Registrant's Registration Statement on Form SB-2, Reg. No. 333-61839) 23 Consent of KPMG LLP (filed herewith) 27 Financial data schedule (filed herewith) 99 Registrant's definitive Proxy Statement dated March 20, 2000, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (not being refiled) 9 EX-13.1 2 1999 ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS [LOGO] THE EAST CAROLINA BANK EXCELLENCE IN ECB COMMUNITY BANKING SINCE 1920 ECB BANCORP, INC. 1999 ANNUAL REPORT COMMUNITY BANKING AS YOU WANT IT TO BE... [GRAPHIC] 15 Convenient Branch Locations Avon o Barco o Columbia o Creswell o Engelhard o Fairfield Greenville o Hatteras o Manteo o Nags Head o Ocracoke Southern Shores o Swan Quarter o Washington [GRAPHIC] Automated Teller Machines [GRAPHIC] www.ecbbancorp.com [GRAPHIC] XPRESS PHONE BANKING [LOGO]EQUAL HOUSING LENDER Member FDIC (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) TABLE OF CONTENTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1999 ANNUAL REPORT Shareholder Reference ...................................... 3 Letter to Shareholders ..................................... 4-5 Mission Statement .......................................... 7 Financial Highlights ....................................... 8-9 Consolidated Five Year Financial Summary ................... 10 Independent Auditors' Report ............................... 11 Consolidated Balance Sheets ................................ 12 Consolidated Statements of Income .......................... 13 Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity ............ 14 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows ...................... 15 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements .................16-28 Management's Discussion and Analysis .......................29-43 Board of Directors and Subsidiary Corporations ............. 44 Bank Senior Management and Corporate Officers .............. 45 Bank Officers and Department Managers ...................... 46 Branch Officers ............................................ 47 Attorneys and Correspondent Banks .......................... 48 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS This discussion may contain statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act, which statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements are statements that include projections, predictions, expectations or beliefs about future events or results or otherwise are not statements of historical fact. Such statements are often characterized by the use of qualifying words (and their derivatives) such as "expect," "believe," "estimate," "plan," "project," "anticipate," or other statements concerning opinions or judgment of Bancorp and its management about future events. Factors that could influence the accuracy of such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the financial success or changing strategies of Bancorp's customers, actions of government regulators, the level of market interest rates, and general economic conditions. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 SHAREHOLDER REFERENCE (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ANNUAL MEETING The Annual Shareholders' Meeting will be held Wednesday, April 19, 2000 at 11:00 a.m. at the Lodge at Lake Mattamuskeet, Hyde County, North Carolina. HEADQUARTERS 35080 US Highway 264 Post Office Box 337 Engelhard, North Carolina 27824 (252) 925-9411 FORM 10-KSB Copies of ECB Bancorp, Inc.'s Annual Report on Form 10-KSB to the Securities and Exchange Commission may be obtained without charge by writing to Gary M. Adams, Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer, The East Carolina Bank, P.O. Box 337, Engelhard, North Carolina 27824. ANNUAL DISCLOSURE STATEMENT A copy of the Bank's Annual Disclosure Statement may be obtained without charge by contacting Gary M. Adams, Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer, The East Carolina Bank, P.O. Box 337, Engelhard, North Carolina 27824. STOCK TRANSFER AND REGISTRAR First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company P.O. Box 29522 Raleigh, North Carolina 27626 SHAREHOLDER ACCOUNT INQUIRIES Communications regarding transfer requirements and lost certificates should be directed to: The East Carolina Bank 35080 US Highway 264 P.O. Box 337 Engelhard, North Carolina 27824 Attention: Corporate Secretary INDEPENDENT CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS KPMG LLP Suite 1200, 150 Fayetteville Street Mall P.O. Box 29543 Raleigh, North Carolina 27626-0543 INVESTMENT BANKING ADVISOR Wachovia/IJL IJL Financial Center 201 N. Tryon Street Charlotte, North Carolina 28202 COUNSEL Davis & Davis Attorneys at Law P.O. Box 277 Swan Quarter, North Carolina 27885 BUSINESS PROFILE ECB Bancorp, Inc. ("Bancorp") is a bank holding company headquartered in Engelhard, North Carolina, whose wholly-owned subsidiary, The East Carolina Bank (the "Bank" or "ECB") (collectively referred to hereafter as the "Company"), is a state-chartered, independent, community bank founded in 1919. At year-end 1999, The East Carolina Bank had 143 full-time employees. ECB is a member of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the American Bankers Association, the North Carolina Bankers Association, and the Independent Bankers Association of America. The Bank currently operates 15 full-service branches, a mortgage office and 14 automated teller machines in eastern North Carolina. Nine of these offices are located in mainland Beaufort, Currituck, Hyde, Pitt, Tyrrell, and Washington counties, and six are on North Carolina's famed Outer Banks, from Ocracoke Island in Hyde County to Southern Shores in Dare County. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Excellence in Community Banking 3 (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) LETTER TO SHAREHOLDERS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Dear Shareholder: Well we made it! As I write this letter early in the year 2000, I am pleased to report that we came through the Y2K adventure absolutely unscathed. All of our systems worked flawlessly and we joined the rest of the world in a large, collective sigh of relief! We learned quite a bit about ourselves and our organization through the process of creating a thorough contingency plan to deal with Y2K. We liked what we found, and the knowledge gleaned during this planning process will help us be a better bank going forward. The year 2000 also represents our 80th year of delivering quality community bank services to communities in northeastern North Carolina. We have come a long way since the doors of the Bank of Engelhard (located in a former barbershop) first opened on January 20, 1920. It is our intent to have several events during the year commemorating this anniversary and inviting the general public to participate. I am pleased to report that for the year-ended December 31, 1999, ECB Bancorp, Inc. generated a consolidated net income of $2,143,000 or $1.01 per share, which is a 9.4% increase over the $1,959,000, or $1.08 per share earned for the period ended December 31, 1998, (the per share results include the full year's effect of a 345,000 share stock offering in the 4th quarter of 1998). Consolidated total assets at year-end 1999 were $233,113,000 or a 10.5% increase over total assets of $210,902,000 at December 31, 1998. Deposits of $203,301,000 at December 31, 1999, represented a 10.3% increase over the previous year-end balance of $184,267,000. Loans grew 11.0% to $147,676,000 at December 31, 1999, up from $133,024,000 at December 31, 1998. These financial results equate to a .97% return on average assets and a 9.71% return on average equity and again reflect the effect of the aforementioned 1998 stock offering. We are quite satisfied with these results and proud that the organization earned more than $2 million for the first time in its history. This was achieved in spite of the fact that significant organizational energy and attention (and expense) were paid to Y2K and its related issues. That is now behind us and management and bank employees can again focus their time and energies on the core strategic initiatives of the company. I am pleased to report that several of our goals were achieved in 1999. In April we organized the ECB Mortgage Company under the leadership of Staton Martin who was formerly with Dare Mortgage Company. Satisfactory progress was made in growing this business, notwithstanding the increased rate environment in which we functioned, as we moved through the year. The Bank has decided to accelerate this progress and, in that regard, has recently hired Edith Corbman primarily to cover the Washington and Greenville markets. In addition to the continued growth of our Avon and Currituck branches which opened in 1998, we opened the Bank's 15th full-service branch in Washington, NC in June 1999. Steady progress has been achieved in this competitive market and we are pleased to bring our style of community banking to Beaufort County. In August 1999, we also completed the move of our Manteo Branch to a more visible location on Highway 64/264. In early March 2000, the Town of Manteo completed the renovation of our previous facility and proudly moved into its new municipal offices. As this letter goes to press, we are also finalizing plans to move our Currituck branch from its temporary location in Barco to a new permanent location approximately six miles north in the Town of Currituck. Management feels this move, which is expected to occur later this year, will only accelerate our steady market penetration in that corner of North Carolina. At the same time we were dealing with Y2K issues in 1999, we also were making substantial progress on ECB's technology strategic plan. As this is being written, the finishing touches are being put on our wide area network (WAN) which is comprised of a series of smaller local area networks (LAN's) and will link all the Bank's facilities. In addition, all departments and branches will have access to the Internet. We are also close to completion of many major improvements to our telephone system. The net result of all this will be an enhanced, state of the art ability to communicate by moving both voice and data simultaneously and rapidly throughout the system. This has significant implications for enhanced product delivery, customer satisfaction and efficiency issues. In November 1999, we installed a Check Image Processing system. After several months of testing, we rolled out a redesigned and improved bank statement to our retail and commercial customers in late February 2000. In our opinion, check imaging has changed from being a luxury to an absolute necessity in order to achieve improved efficiency and a higher level of customer service. Switching from microfilm to digital imaging can be compared to the technological changes that have been made in the way consumers listen to music - it's the difference between listening to your favorite songs on cassette or compact disc. With check imaging (like a CD), the quality is higher and crisper. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4 LETTER TO SHAREHOLDERS (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- One of the drivers of ECB's future success will be the ability to increase fee income as we add to our product base. To that end, (and in the very near future), we will be introducing a leasing product, a new accounts receivable financing product, various insurance products marketed through ECB Financial Services, and an array of products designed to appeal to and facilitate the management of small businesses, under the banner "ECB Best Business Solutions." In the fall of 1999, we also began the design and construction of a WEB page as the precursor of taking the East Carolina Bank into the world of Internet banking. I am pleased to report that this project is almost complete and, by the time of the annual meeting, our WEB site (www.ecbbancorp.com) should be functional. We welcome you to visit it and give us your feedback. The next stage (goal) of this technology initiative is to bring home banking and small business banking (principally cash management services) via the Internet to our customers by the end of the third quarter 2000. The idea of introducing an ECB-style community bank Internet service is to give customers the choice of banking in person, on the phone, or on the Internet, thus keeping their loyalty and hopefully broadening their relationship with the Bank. We anticipate that the ECB branded approach, together with our theme of "Excellence in Community Banking," will generate high recognition by putting quality customer service and a friendly face on Internet technology. We think this is currently lacking in the marketplace. It is our intent to actually deliver "high tech and high touch." While the Company ended the past century on a high note, our thoughts and prayers continue to go out to all individuals and families throughout eastern North Carolina, but particularly to those in our market area that were heavily impacted by the floods and tidal surge wrought by Hurricanes Dennis and Floyd. While contributing along with many others to the Governor's Hurricane Relief Fund to help all flood victims, ECB spent the majority of its limited resources on our friends and neighbors from Greenville to the East. Hyde County was particularly hard hit. The Bank played a key role in gathering public donations throughout all its branches for the Hyde County Relief Fund and donating the use of a building in Swan Quarter as the centralized point for food, clothing, and other essentials for those hardest hit. I am also saddened to report the passing of Lewis Combs of Creswell, an East Carolina Bank Director from 1969 to 1996. Mr. Combs was a member of the Executive Committee when I came to the Bank. Although he elected not to stand for reelection in 1996, his comments and observations for the months we worked together were always well reasoned and on target with common sense. His friends within The East Carolina Bank family will miss him but will also be thankful that he gave his talents to the governance of the organization for so many years. The year 1999 was also highlighted by three increases in interest rates by the Federal Reserve. It is believed that the year 2000 will see the Feds continue its bias toward tightening in its effort to cool the economy and contain any potential signs of inflation. Management believes that the East Carolina Bank will be minimally impacted in this environment given our current asset/liability mix. We are obviously disappointed in the weak performance of our stock during 1999. For a variety of reasons including the interest rate increases mentioned above, most bank stocks were under severe pressure this past year and did poorly regardless of how well the banks themselves were performing. Investors were simply not focusing on value during the year. We hope to see a reversal of this trend in 2000. In closing, I would once again like to thank the directors for their confidence and contributions and to acknowledge the continued display of teamwork throughout the organization, particularly among the management team. Additionally, I will again thank the employees as I try to do all year long for their support and dedication to the principles upon which the successes of this Bank are being built. Lastly I want to thank the shareholders for their support and patience as we put together a top-performing bank which will reward their investment over time. Watch for our new series of advertisements featuring a renewed emphasis on our customers and their ECB banking relationship. While we will continue with the theme of "Excellence in Community Banking (ECB), we will also be guided by the following: "The East Carolina Bank, community banking as you want it to be, the excellence of ECB." Sincerely, /s/ Arthur H. Keeney, III Arthur H. Keeney, III President and CEO March 20, 2000 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Excellence in Community Banking 5 (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- [LOGO] THE EAST CAROLINA BANK ECB SINCE 1920 EXCELLENCE IN COMMUNITY BANKING - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6 (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- MISSION STATEMENT THE EAST CAROLINA BANK WILL BE OPERATED IN A FINANCIALLY SOUND MANNER AND WILL ACHIEVE ITS GROWTH AND PROFIT OBJECTIVES THROUGH THE DELIVERY OF SELECT, QUALITY FINANCIAL PRODUCTS AND SERVICES TO INDIVIDUALS, SMALL BUSINESS, AND AGRICULTURAL CUSTOMERS IN EASTERN NORTH CAROLINA. WE WILL BE DEDICATED TO EMPLOYEE DEVELOPMENT, STRIVE TO EXCEED THE PUBLIC'S EXPECTATIONS WITH OUR SERVICE ORIENTATION, AND SEEK TO HAVE OUR CORPORATE VALUES REFLECT THOSE OF THE COMMUNITY. THE RESULT SHALL BE A HIGH PERFORMANCE INDEPENDENT BANK PROVIDING CAREER OPPORTUNITIES FOR OUR EMPLOYEES, SUPERIOR RETURNS FOR OUR SHAREHOLDERS, AND EXCELLENCE IN COMMUNITY BANKING FOR OUR CUSTOMERS. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Excellence in Community Banking 7 (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NET INCOME (Bar graph appears here with the following plot points.) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 $1,190,183 $1,333,763 $1,673,251 $1,959,040 $2,143,390 MARKET PRICE OF COMMON STOCK AND DIVIDENDS Bancorp's Common Stock was first issued on July 22, 1998, when it became the Bank's parent holding company. The Common Stock was listed on the Nasdaq Small Cap Market on November 23, 1998, under the trading symbol "ECBE." Previously, it had been traded on the Nasdaq Bulletin Board. The following table sets forth the high and low published prices of the Common Stock during each calendar quarter since the listing date on the Nasdaq Small Cap Market, and the amounts of dividends declared on the Common Stock during each calendar quarter for the past two calendar years.
PRICE(1) ------------------------------- QUARTER HIGH LOW DIVIDENDS DECLARED - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 First - - - Second - - - Third - - - Fourth(1) $17.125 $14.25 $0.255* 1999 First $16.25 $11.00 $0.0725 Second $15.75 $11.50 $0.0725 Third $12.625 $10.50 $0.0725 Fourth $12.50 $ 9.125 $0.0725
(1) Beginning November 23, 1998, which was the date the Common Stock was listed on the Nasdaq Small Cap Market. Bancorp's sole source of funds for the payment of dividends on its Common Stock is dividends paid to it by the Bank on the shares of the Bank's Common Stock held by the Bancorp, and the declaration and payment of future dividends by the Bank will continue to depend on its earnings and financial condition, capital requirements, general economic conditions, compliance with regulatory requirements generally applicable to North Carolina banks, and other factors. Bancorp's ability to pay dividends also is subject to its own separate factors, including its earnings and financial condition, capital requirements and regulatory restrictions applicable to bank holding companies. *Historically, the Company has paid its dividends on an annual basis. In 1998, the annual dividend was 25.5 cents per share. On an annualized basis, the 1999 quarterly per share dividend represents a 13.7% increase over the 1998 dividend. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PERCENT 1999 1998 CHANGE - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE YEAR: Operating income $ 17,957,609 $ 16,909,358 6.2% Operating expense 15,814,219 14,950,318 5.8% Net income 2,143,390 1,959,040 9.4% Per share (basic and diluted) 1.01 1.08 (6.4)% Cash dividends declared 616,119 453,965 35.7% Per share $ .290 $ .255 13.7% Average number of common shares outstanding 2,122,354 1,817,117 16.8% - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- AT YEAR END: Assets $ 233,113,296 $ 210,901,939 10.5% Earning assets 213,887,681 191,418,473 11.7% Loans 147,675,538 133,024,004 11.0% Investment securities 58,939,340 58,394,469 0.9% Allowance for probable loan losses 2,700,000 2,750,000 (1.8)% Deposits 203,301,393 184,266,912 10.3% Shareholders' equity 22,062,399 21,852,346 1.0% Book value per share $ 10.40 $ 10.28 1.2% - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- AVERAGES: Assets $ 221,598,000 $ 194,618,000 13.9% Earning assets 203,300,000 179,290,000 13.4% Loans, gross 141,564,000 127,650,000 10.9% Deposits 194,609,000 175,857,000 10.7% Shareholders' equity 22,066,000 17,295,000 27.6% (Bar graphs appear here with the following plot points.) RETURN ON ASSETS RETURN ON EQUITY 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 .74% .80% .93% 1.01% *.97% 9.16% 9.55% 11.07% 11.33% *9.71%
*Results include the full year's effect of a 345,000 share stock offering in the 4th quarter of 1998. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Excellence in Community Banking 9 (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) CONSOLIDATED FIVE YEAR FINANCIAL SUMMARY - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASSETS AND LIABILITIES 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 - ----------------------------------------------------------- -------------- -------------- --------------- ------------ Deposits $ 203,301,393 $ 184,266,912 $ 170,908,861 $ 151,335,562 $ 150,435,845 Demand 104,261,971 86,375,845 73,153,398 66,263,148 61,617,488 Savings and time 99,039,422 97,891,067 97,755,463 85,072,414 88,818,357 Loans 147,675,538 133,024,004 121,208,810 112,655,981 94,488,919 Securities: 58,939,340 58,394,469 47,119,973 34,588,505 47,771,754 Taxable 44,438,517 40,969,145 33,062,817 25,334,366 38,259,514 Tax exempt 14,500,823 17,425,324 14,057,156 9,254,139 9,512,240 Allowance for probable loan losses 2,700,000 2,750,000 2,660,000 2,400,000 1,950,000 Shareholders' equity 22,062,399 21,852,346 15,713,293 14,249,546 13,426,644 Assets $ 233,113,296 $ 210,901,939 $ 188,227,722 $ 167,217,594 $ 165,407,814 =========================================================== ============== ============== =============== ============ OPERATING SUMMARY Interest income: Interest and fees on loans $ 12,512,479 $ 12,104,838 $ 10,887,327 $ 9,521,265 $ 8,754,549 Interest on securities 3,079,605 2,625,600 2,261,265 2,390,995 2,677,175 Interest on federal funds sold 302,071 241,595 490,623 301,265 371,806 - ----------------------------------------------------------- -------------- -------------- --------------- ------------- Total interest income 15,894,155 14,882,033 13,639,215 12,213,525 11,803,530 Interest expense: Interest on deposits 5,542,047 5,351,026 5,363,757 4,831,397 5,207,179 Interest on short-term borrowings 30,201 8,853 786 9,459 8,746 Interest on long-term obligations 130,609 - - - - - ----------------------------------------------------------- -------------- -------------- --------------- ------------ Total interest expense 5,702,857 5,359,879 5,364,543 4,840,856 5,215,925 - ----------------------------------------------------------- -------------- -------------- --------------- ------------- Net interest income 10,191,298 9,522,154 8,274,672 7,372,669 6,587,605 Provision for probable loan losses 242,319 242,396 353,513 496,914 515,066 Non-interest income 2,063,454 2,027,325 1,920,249 1,718,064 1,669,518 Non-interest expenses 9,169,043 8,703,043 7,518,157 6,785,056 6,167,874 - ----------------------------------------------------------- -------------- -------------- --------------- ------------ Income before taxes and cumulative effect of a change in accounting for postretirement benefits 2,843,390 2,604,040 2,323,251 1,808,763 1,574,183 Income taxes 700,000 645,000 650,000 475,000 384,000 - ----------------------------------------------------------- -------------- -------------- --------------- ------------- Income before cumulative effect of a change in accounting for postretirement benefits 2,143,390 1,959,040 1,673,251 1,333,763 1,190,183 - ----------------------------------------------------------- -------------- -------------- --------------- ------------ Cumulative effect for years prior to January 1, 1995 of a change in accounting for postretirement benefits, net of income tax - - - - (278,555) - ----------------------------------------------------------- -------------- -------------- --------------- ------------ Net income $ 2,143,390 $ 1,959,040 $ 1,673,251 $ 1,333,763 $ 911,628 =========================================================== ============== ============== =============== ============ Weighted average outstanding shares of common stock 2,122,354 1,817,117 1,780,254 1,780,254 1,780,254 Per share amounts: Income before cumulative effect of a change in accounting for postretirement benefits $ 1.01 $ 1.08 $ 0.94 $ 0.75 $ 0.67 Cumulative effect for years prior to January 1, 1995 of a change in accounting for postretirement benefits - - - (0.16) - ----------------------------------------------------------- -------------- -------------- --------------- ------------ Net income per common share (basic and diluted) $ 1.01 $ 1.08 $ .94 $ .75 $ .51 =========================================================== ============== ============== =============== ============
10 INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS ECB BANCORP, INC.: We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of ECB Bancorp, Inc. and subsidiary (the "Company") as of December 31, 1999 and 1998, and the related consolidated statements of income, shareholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 1999. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of ECB Bancorp, Inc. and subsidiary as of December 31, 1999 and 1998, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 1999, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. Raleigh, North Carolina February 4, 2000 KPMG LLP - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Excellence in Community Banking 11 (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DECEMBER 31, 1999 AND 1998 ASSETS 1999 1998 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- Non-interest bearing deposits and cash (note 13) $ 11,138,810 $ 11,965,108 Federal funds sold 6,650,000 - - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- Total cash and cash equivalents 17,788,810 11,965,108 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- INVESTMENT SECURITIES (NOTE 2) Available-for-sale (cost: $59,797,382 and $57,374,975, respectively) 58,939,340 58,394,469 LOANS (NOTE 3) 147,675,538 133,024,004 Allowance for probable loan losses (note 4) (2,700,000) (2,750,000) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- Loans, net 144,975,538 130,274,004 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- Real estate acquired in settlement of loans, net 182,672 50,000 Federal Home Loan Bank stock, at cost 632,800 564,800 Bank premises and equipment, net (note 5) 6,727,460 7,006,508 Accrued interest receivable 2,259,371 2,096,424 Other assets (note 6) 1,607,305 550,626 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- Total $ 233,113,296 $ 210,901,939 ======================================================================================================= ================ LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- DEPOSITS (NOTE 10): Demand, noninterest bearing $ 43,638,449 $ 38,264,627 Demand, interest bearing 60,623,522 48,111,218 Savings 14,822,699 14,561,072 Time 84,216,723 83,329,995 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- Total deposits 203,301,393 184,266,912 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- Short-term borrowings 2,737,649 2,725,000 Accrued interest payable 816,980 829,104 Long-term obligations 3,000,000 - Other liabilities (note 7) 1,194,875 1,228,577 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- Total liabilities 211,050,897 189,049,593 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (NOTES 11, 13 AND 16): Common stock, par value $3.50 per share; authorized 10,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding 2,121,529 and 2,125,254 shares at December 31, 1999 and 1998, respectively 7,425,352 7,438,389 Capital surplus 6,229,452 6,260,392 Retained earnings 9,008,846 7,480,699 Deferred compensation - restricted stock (34,945) - Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income (566,306) 672,866 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- Total shareholders' equity 22,062,399 21,852,346 ======================================================================================================= ================ COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (NOTES 12 AND 14) Total $ 233,113,296 $ 210,901,939 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
12 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1999, 1998 AND 1997 1999 1998 1997 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- -------------- INTEREST INCOME: Interest and fees on loans $ 12,512,479 $ 12,014,838 $ 10,887,327 Interest on investment securities: Interest exempt from federal income taxes 760,243 751,990 511,653 Taxable interest income 2,319,362 1,873,610 1,749,612 Interest on federal funds sold 302,071 241,595 490,623 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- -------------- Total interest income 15,894,155 14,882,033 13,639,215 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- -------------- INTEREST EXPENSE: Deposits (note 10): Demand accounts 1,253,138 686,085 698,635 Savings 223,373 284,094 308,012 Time 4,065,536 4,380,847 4,357,110 Short-term borrowings 30,201 8,853 786 Long-term obligations 130,609 - - - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- -------------- Total interest expense 5,702,857 5,359,879 5,364,543 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- -------------- NET INTEREST INCOME 10,191,298 9,522,154 8,274,672 Provision for probable loan losses (note 4) 242,319 242,396 353,513 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- -------------- NET INTEREST INCOME AFTER PROVISION FOR PROBABLE LOAN LOSSES 9,948,979 9,279,758 7,921,159 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- -------------- NON-INTEREST INCOME: Service charges on deposit accounts 1,316,222 1,334,958 1,391,136 Other service charges and fees 600,623 590,832 524,638 Net loss on sale of securities (27,122) - (25,818) Other 173,731 101,535 30,293 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- -------------- Total non-interest income 2,063,454 2,027,325 1,920,249 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- -------------- NON-INTEREST EXPENSE: Salaries 3,541,511 3,186,103 2,938,570 Retirement and other employee benefits (note 7) 1,073,039 1,083,843 971,474 Occupancy 718,356 720,257 623,134 Equipment 992,213 875,232 768,244 Professional fees 333,159 318,336 209,038 Supplies 239,925 251,076 221,978 Telephone 285,828 265,386 216,821 Postage 172,759 171,747 150,311 Other 1,812,253 1,831,063 1,418,587 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- -------------- Total non-interest expense 9,169,043 8,703,043 7,518,157 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- -------------- INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES 2,843,390 2,604,040 2,323,251 INCOME TAXES (NOTE 6) 700,000 645,000 650,000 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- -------------- NET INCOME $ 2,143,390 $ 1,959,040 $ 1,673,251 ================================================================================== ================ ============== NET INCOME PER SHARE (BASIC AND DILUTED) $ 1.01 $ 1.08 $ 0.94 WEIGHTED AVERAGE COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING 2,122,354 1,817,117 1,780,254 ================================================================================== ================ ============== See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Excellence in Community Banking
13 (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1999, 1998 AND 1997 ACCUMULATED DEFERRED OTHER COMMON STOCK COMPENSATION- COMPREHENSIVE NUMBER CAPITAL RETAINED RESTRICTED (LOSS) COMPREHENSIVE OF SHARES AMOUNT SURPLUS EARNINGS STOCK INCOME INCOME TOTAL - --------------------------------------------- --------- ---------- ---------- ------------ --------- ---------- ---------- BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1996 1,780,254 $6,230,889 $3,200,000 $4,717,766 - $100,891 - $14,249,546 Unrealized gain, net of income taxes of $106,000 - - - - - 205,889 205,889 205,889 Net income - - - 1,673,251 - - 1,673,251 1,673,251 Total comprehensive income $ 1,879,140 Cash dividends ($.23 per share) - - - (415,393) - - ========= (415,393) - --------------------------------------------- --------- ---------- ---------- ------------ --------- --------- BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1997 1,780,254 6,230,889 3,200,000 5,975,624 - 306,780 15,713,293 Unrealized gain, net of income taxes of $188,590 - - - - - 366,086 366,086 366,086 Net income - - - 1,959,040 - - 1,959,040 1,959,040 Total comprehensive income $ 2,325,126 Common stock issued (note 11) 345,000 1,207,500 3,060,392 - - - ========= 4,267,892 Cash dividends ($.255 per share) - - - (453,965) - - (453,965) - --------------------------------------------- --------- ---------- ---------- ------------ --------- ---------- ---------- BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1998 2,125,254 7,438,389 6,260,392 7,480,699 672,866 21,852,346 Unrealized losses, net of income taxes of $638,364 - - - - - (1,239,172) (1,239,172) (1,239,172) Net income - - - 2,143,390 - - 2,143,390 2,143,390 Total comprehensive income $ 904,218 Deferred compensation - ========== restricted stock issuance 3,575 12,513 28,599 - (41,112) - - Recognition of deferred stock compensation - restricted stock - - - - 6,167 - 6,167 Repurchase of common stock (7,300) (25,550) (59,539) - - - (85,089) Cash dividends ($.29 per share) - - - (615,243) - - (615,243) - --------------------------------------------- --------- ---------- ---------- ------------ --------- ---------- BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1999 2,121,529 $7,425,352 $6,229,452 $9,008,846 $(34,945) $(566,306) $22,062,399 ============================================= ========= ========== ========== ============ ========= ==========
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. 14 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1999, 1998 AND 1997 1999 1998 1997 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- ----------------- CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: Net income $ 2,143,390 $ 1,959,040 $ 1,673,251 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Depreciation 660,762 668,383 545,852 Amortization of premium on investment securities, net 41,651 54,862 51,838 Provision for probable loan losses 242,319 242,396 353,513 Provision for loss on real estate held for sale - - 50,000 Deferred income taxes 61,500 72,000 (33,700) Loss on sale of available-for-sale securities 27,122 - 25,818 Loss on disposal of premises and equipment 47,486 6,285 7,242 Deferred compensation - restricted stock 6,167 - - Increase in accrued interest receivable (162,947) (173,610) (403,494) Decrease (increase) in other assets (612,487) 93,092 (819) Increase (decrease) in accrued interest payable (12,124) 130,107 115,265 Increase in postretirement benefit liability 12,739 20,747 42,000 Increase (decrease) in other liabilities (200,289) (34,833) (184,183) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- ----------------- Net cash provided by operating activities 2,255,289 3,038,469 2,242,583 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- ----------------- CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: Proceeds from sales of investment securities classified as available-for-sale 3,346,458 - 3,015,439 Proceeds from maturities of investment securities classified as available-for-sale 18,818,876 9,913,543 13,349,710 Purchases of investment securities classified as available-for-sale (24,656,514) (20,688,225) (28,662,322) Purchases of Federal Home Loan Bank stock (68,000) (61,800) (503,000) Proceeds from disposal of premises and equipment 2,286,397 12,063 23,665 Purchases of premises and equipment (2,715,597) (1,426,956) (1,304,813) Proceeds from disposal of real estate acquired in settlement of loans and real estate held for sale - 446,476 50,263 Net loan originations (14,943,853) (11,967,590) (9,075,362) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- ----------------- Net cash used by investing activities (17,932,233) (23,772,489) (23,106,420) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- ----------------- CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: Net increase in deposits 19,034,481 13,454,507 19,573,299 Net increase in short-term borrowings 12,649 2,725,000 - Proceeds from long-term borrowings 3,000,000 - - Dividends paid (461,395) (453,965) (415,393) Proceeds from issuance of common stock - 4,267,892 - Repurchase of common stock (85,089) - - - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- ---------------- Net cash provided by financing activities 21,500,646 19,993,434 19,157,906 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- ----------------- Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 5,823,702 (740,586) (1,705,931) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 11,965,108 12,705,694 14,411,625 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- ---------------- CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF YEAR $ 17,788,810 $ 11,965,108 $ 12,705,694 ====================================================================================== ================ ================ Supplemental disclosure of noncash financing and investing activities: Unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities, net of deferred taxes $ (1,239,172) $ 366,086 $ 205,889 ====================================================================================== ================ ================ Dividends declared but not paid $ 153,848 - - ====================================================================================== ================ ================ See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Excellence in Community Banking
15 (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (1) SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING AND REPORTING POLICIES -------------------------------------------------------- (a) CONSOLIDATION ------------- The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of ECB Bancorp, Inc. ("Bancorp") (see note 11) and its wholly-owned subsidiary, The East Carolina Bank (the "Bank") (collectively referred to hereafter as the "Company"). The Bank has two wholly-owned subsidiaries, Carolina Financial Realty, Inc. and Carolina Financial Courier, Inc. Significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. (b) BASIS OF FINANCIAL STATEMENT PRESENTATION ------------------------------------------ The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles 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 balance sheets and the reported amounts of income and expenses for the periods presented. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates. Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant change in the near-term relate to the determination of the allowance for probable loan losses. In connection with the determination of the allowance for probable loan losses, management obtains independent appraisals for significant properties held as collateral for loans. (c) BUSINESS --------- Bancorp is a bank holding company incorporated in North Carolina. The principal activity of Bancorp is ownership of the Bank. The Bank provides financial services through its branch network located in eastern North Carolina. The Bank competes with other financial institutions and numerous other non-financial services commercial entities offering financial services products. The Bank is further subject to the regulations of certain federal and state agencies and undergoes periodic examinations by those regulatory authorities. The Company has no foreign operations, and the Company's customers are principally located in eastern North Carolina. (d) CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS ------------------------- Cash and cash equivalents include demand and time deposits (with original maturities of ninety days or less) at other financial institutions and federal funds sold. Generally, federal funds are purchased and sold for one-day periods. (e) INVESTMENT SECURITIES --------------------- Management determines the appropriate classification of investment securities at the time of purchase and reevaluates such designation at each reporting date. Securities are classified as held-to-maturity ("HTM") when the Company has both the positive intent and ability to hold the securities to maturity. HTM securities are stated at amortized cost. Securities not classified at HTM are classified as available-for-sale ("AFS"). AFS securities are stated at fair value as determined by reference to published sources, with the unrealized gains and losses, net of income taxes, reported as a separate component of shareholders' equity. The Company has no trading securities. The amortized cost of securities classified as HTM or AFS is adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts to maturity. Such amortization is included in interest income from investments. Realized gains and losses, and declines in value judged to be other-than-temporary, are included in net securities gains (losses). The cost of securities sold is based on the specific identification method. (f) LOANS RECEIVABLE ---------------- Loans are generally stated at their outstanding unpaid principal balances net of any deferred fees or costs. Loan origination fees net of certain direct loan origination costs are deferred and amortized as a yield adjustment over the contractual life of the related loans using the level-yield method. 16 NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (1) SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING AND REPORTING POLICIES (continued) -------------------------------------------------------------------- Interest on loans is recorded based on the principal amount outstanding. The Company ceases accruing interest on loans (including impaired loans) when, in management's judgment, the collection of interest income appears doubtful or the loan is past due 90 days or more. Management may return a loan classified as nonaccrual to accrual status when the obligation has been brought current, has performed in accordance with its contractual terms over an extended period of time, and the ultimate collectibility of the total contractual principal and interest is no longer in doubt. (g) ALLOWANCE FOR PROBABLE LOAN LOSSES ---------------------------------- The allowance for probable loan losses ("AFLL") is established through provisions for losses charged against income. Loan amounts deemed to be uncollectible are charged against the AFLL, and subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance. The AFLL represents management's estimate of the amount necessary to absorb estimated probable losses in the loan portfolio. Management believes that the AFLL is adequate. Management's periodic evaluation of the adequacy of the allowance is based on individual loan reviews, past loan loss experience, economic conditions in the Company's market areas, the fair value and adequacy of underlying collateral, and the growth and risk composition of the loan portfolio. This evaluation is inherently subjective as it requires material estimates, including the amounts and timing of future cash flows expected to be received on impaired loans, that may be susceptible to significant change. Thus, future additions to the AFLL may be necessary based on the impact of changes in economic conditions. In addition, various regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination process, periodically review the company's AFLL. Such agencies may require the Company to recognize additions to the AFLL based on their judgments about information available to them at the time of their examination. Under the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 114, "Accounting by Creditors for Impairment of a Loan," as amended by SFAS No. 118, "Accounting by Creditors for Impairment of a Loan - Income Recognition and Disclosures" (collectively referred to hereafter as "SFAS No. 114"), the AFLL related to loans that are identified for evaluation in accordance with these standards is based on discounted cash flows using the loan's initial effective interest rate, the loan's observable market price, or the fair value of the collateral for collateral dependent loans. (h) REAL ESTATE ACQUIRED IN SETTLEMENT OF LOANS ------------------------------------------- Real estate acquired in settlement of loans consists of property acquired through a foreclosure proceeding or acceptance of a deed-in-lieu of foreclosure and loans classified as in-substance foreclosure. In accordance with SFAS No. 114, a loan is classified as in-substance foreclosure when the Company has taken possession of the collateral regardless of whether formal foreclosure proceedings have taken place. Real estate acquired in settlement of loans is recorded initially at the lower of the loan balance plus unpaid accrued interest or estimated fair value of the property less estimated selling costs at the date of foreclosure. The initial recorded value may be subsequently reduced by additional allowances, which are charged to earnings, if the estimated fair value of the property less estimated selling costs declines below the initial recorded value. Costs related to the improvement of the property are capitalized, whereas those related to holding the property are expensed. Such properties are held for sale and, accordingly, no depreciation or amortization expense is recognized. Loans with outstanding principal balances totalling $132,672 and $390,358 were foreclosed on during the years ended December 1999 and 1997, respectively. There were no such foreclosures in 1998. (i) MEMBERSHIP/INVESTMENT IN FEDERAL HOME LOAN BANK STOCK ----------------------------------------------------- The Company is a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta ("FHLB"). Membership, along with a signed blanket collateral agreement, provides the Company with the ability to draw $13 million of advances from the FHLB. At December 31, 1999, the Company had advances totaling $3 million from the FHLB. These advances, which are classified as long-term borrowings, mature in January 2004 and carry an interest rate of 4.7 percent at December 31, 1999. No advances were drawn by the Company in 1998. As a requirement for membership, the Company invests in stock of the FHLB in the amount of 1% of its outstanding residential loans or 5% of its outstanding advances from the FHLB, whichever is greater. Such stock is pledged as - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Excellence in Community Banking 17 (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (1) SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING AND REPORTING POLICIES (continued) collateral for any FHLB advances drawn by the Company. At December 31, 1999, the Company owned 6,328 shares of the FHLB's $100 par value capital stock. No ready market exists for such stock, which is carried at cost. (j) PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT ---------------------- Premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed by the straight-line method and is charged to operations over the estimated useful lives of the assets which range from 25 to 50 years for bank premises and 3 to 10 years for furniture and equipment. Maintenance, repairs, renewals and minor improvements are charged to expense as incurred. Major improvements are capitalized and depreciated. (k) INCOME TAXES ------------ The Company records income taxes using the asset and liability method. Under this method, deferred income taxes are determined based on temporary differences between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates expected to be in effect when such amounts are realized or settled. (l) EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS ---------------------- The Company has in place a postretirement benefit plan covering certain retirees and a defined contribution 401(k) plan that covers all eligible employees. (m) STOCK OPTION PLAN ----------------- As discussed in note 8, the Company adopted a stock option plan in 1998. The Company accounts for its stock option plan in accordance with the provisions of Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25 (APB Opinion No. 25), "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees," and related interpretations. As such, compensation expense is recorded on the date of grant only if the market price of the underlying stock on the date of grant exceeds the exercise price. SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation" (SFAS No. 123), requires entities to recognize as expense over the vesting period the fair value of all stock-based awards on the date of grant. Alternatively, SFAS No. 123 also allows entities to continue to apply the provisions of APB Opinion No. 25 and provide pro forma net income and pro forma earnings per share disclosures for employee stock option grants made as if the fair-value-based method defined in SFAS No. 123 had been applied. The Company has elected to apply the provision of APB Opinion No. 25 and provide the pro forma disclosure provisions of SFAS No. 123. (n) NET INCOME/DIVIDENDS PER SHARE ------------------------------ Basic Earnings Per Share is calculated by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted Earnings Per Share is computed by assuming the issuance of common shares for all dilutive potential common shares outstanding during the reporting period. Currently, the Company's only dilutive potential common stock issuances relate to options that have been issued under the Company's stock option plan. In computing Diluted Earnings Per Share, it is assumed that all such dilutive stock options are exercised during the reporting period at their respective exercise prices, with the proceeds from the exercises used by the Company to buy back stock in the open market at the average market price in effect during the reporting period. The difference between the number of shares assumed to be exercised and the number of shares bought back is added to the number of weighted average common shares outstanding during the period. The sum is used as the denominator to calculate Diluted Earnings Per Share for the Company. Dividends per share are based on the shares outstanding at the time of dividend declaration. All shares and per share amounts have been restated to give effect to the three-for-one stock split on July 22, 1998 (see note 11). - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 18 NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (1) SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING AND REPORTING POLICIES (continued) (o) COMPREHENSIVE INCOME -------------------- Comprehensive income is defined as the change in equity during a period for non-owner transactions and is divided into net income and other comprehensive income. Other comprehensive income includes revenues, expenses, gains, and losses that are excluded from earnings under current accounting standards. As of and for the periods presented, the sole component of other comprehensive income for the Company has consisted of unrealized gains and losses, net of taxes, of the Company's available-for-sale securities portfolio.
1999 1998 1997 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- ----------------- Unrealized (losses) gains arising during the period $ (1,904,655) $ 554,676 $ 286,071 Tax benefit (expense) 647,582 (188,590) (97,222) Reclassification to realized losses 27,119 - 25,818 Tax benefit (9,218) - (8,778) - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- ----------------- Other comprehensive (loss) income $ (1,239,172) $ 366,086 $ 205,889 ================================================================================= ================ ================= (p) RECLASSIFICATIONS --------------------- Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified in the financial statements to conform with the current year presentation. The reclassifications had no effect on previously reported net income or retained earnings. (2) INVESTMENT SECURITIES --------------------- The following is a summary of the securities portfolios by major classification: DECEMBER 31, 1999 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- GROSS GROSS AMORTIZED UNREALIZED UNREALIZED FAIR COST GAINS LOSSES VALUE - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SECURITIES AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE: U.S. Treasury obligations $16,005,692 $ 21,821 $ (70,011) $ 15,957,502 Securities of other U.S. government agencies and corporations 26,279,605 - (356,839) 25,922,766 Obligations of states and political subdivisions 14,875,182 67,157 (441,516) 14,500,823 Mortgage-backed securities 2,636,903 - (78,654) 2,558,249 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------- -------------- ------------------- Total $ 59,797,382 $ 88,978 $ (947,020) $ 58,939,340 ====================================================================== ============= ============== =================== DECEMBER 31, 1998 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SECURITIES AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE: U.S. Treasury obligations $ 19,045,593 $ 406,297 $ - $ 19,451,890 Securities of other U.S. government agencies and corporations 20,913,647 70,740 (21,802) 20,962,585 Obligations of states and political subdivisions 16,867,122 563,438 (5,236) 17,425,324 Mortgage-backed securities 548,613 6,057 - 554,670 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------- --------------- ----------------- Total $ 57,374,975 $ 1,046,532 $ (27,038) $ 58,394,469 ====================================================================== ============= =============== ================= Gross realized gains and losses on sales of securities for the years ended December 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997 were as follows: 1999 1998 1997 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------ -------------- Gross realized gains $ - $ - $ - Gross realized losses (27,122) - (25,818) - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------ -------------- Net realized gains (losses) $ (27,122) $ - $ (25,818) ========================================================================================= ============ ============== - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Excellence in Community Banking
19 (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (2) INVESTMENT SECURITIES (continued) The aggregate amortized cost and fair value of the available-for-sale securities portfolio at December 31, 1999, by remaining contractual maturity are as follows:
AMORTIZED FAIR COST VALUE - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------ U.S. Treasury obligations: Due in one year or less $ 5,997,194 $ 6,006,889 Due in one year through five years 10,008,498 9,956,812 Securities of other U.S. government agencies and corporations: Due in one year or less 3,998,759 3,976,560 Due in one year through five years 22,280,846 21,946,206 Obligations of states and political subdivisions: Due in one year or less 1,815,500 1,819,314 Due in one year through five years 3,392,103 3,418,137 Due after five through ten years 6,619,071 6,360,426 Due after ten years 3,048,508 2,902,947 Mortgage-backed securities 2,636,903 2,558,249 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------ Total securities $ 59,797,382 $ 58,939,340 ================================================================================================= ================== Securities with an amortized cost of approximately $25,531,000 at December 31, 1999 are pledged as collateral for deposits. (3) LOANS ----- Loans at December 31, 1999 and 1998 classified by type, are as follows: 1999 1998 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ----------------- Commercial, financial and agricultural $ 56,343,257 $ 48,893,329 Real estate loans: Construction 1,865,625 4,560,418 Mortgage, commercial and residential 74,248,848 64,687,018 Installment 15,379,233 15,033,205 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ----------------- 147,836,963 133,173,970 Less deferred fees and costs, net 161,425 149,966 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ----------------- $ 147,675,538 $ 133,024,004 ====================================================================================================== ================= Included in the above: Nonaccrual loans $ 407,649 $ 88,170 Restructured loans $ 127,774 $ 92,000 ====================================================================================================== =================
At December 31, 1999, the recorded investment in loans that are considered to be impaired under SFAS No. 114 was $366,631 (all on a non-accrual basis), which had a related allowance for probable loan losses of approximately $55,000. The average recorded investment in impaired loans during the year ended December 31, 1999 was approximately $192,220. For the year ended December 31, 1999, the Company recognized interest income on those impaired loans of $30,510, all of which was recognized using the cash basis method of income recognition. At December 31, 1998, the recorded investment in loans that are considered to be impaired under SFAS No. 114 was $46,000 (all on a non-accural basis), the entire balance of which has been reserved in the AFLL. The average recorded investment in impaired loans during the year ended December 31, 1998 was approximately $354,000. For the year ended December 31, 1998, the Company recognized interest on those impaired loans of $234,683, all of which was recognized using the cash basis method of income recognition. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 20 NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (3) LOANS (continued) Loans at December 31, 1999 and 1998 include loans to officers and directors and their associates totaling approximately $656,000 and $800,000, respectively. During 1999, $783,163 in loans were disbursed to officers, directors and their associates and principal repayments of $927,004 were received on such loans. The Company, through its normal lending activity, originates and maintains loans receivable which are substantially concentrated in the Eastern region of North Carolina, where its offices are located. The Company's policy calls for collateral or other forms of repayment assurance to be received from the borrower at the time of loan origination. Such collateral or other form of repayment assurance is subject to changes in economic value due to various factors beyond the control of the Company and such changes could be significant. At December 31, 1999, and 1998, included in mortgage, commercial, and residential loans were loans collateralized by owner-occupied residential real estate of approximately $21,877,000 and $21,152,000, respectively. (4) ALLOWANCE FOR PROBABLE LOAN LOSSES ---------------------------------- An analysis of the allowance for probable loan losses for the years ended December 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997 follows:
DECEMBER 31, - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1999 1998 1997 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- ---------------- Beginning balance $ 2,750,000 $ 2,660,000 $ 2,400,000 Provision for probable loan losses 242,319 242,396 353,513 Recoveries 74,046 78,538 100,838 Loans charged off (366,365) (230,934) (194,351) - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ---------------- Ending balance $ 2,700,000 $ 2,750,000 $ 2,660,000 =================================================================================== ================= ================ (5) PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT ---------------------- An analysis of premises and equipment at December 31, 1999 and 1998 follows: ACCUMULATED UNDEPRECIATED COST DEPRECIATION COST - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------ ------------------ DECEMBER 31, 1999: Land $ 1,431,212 $ - $ 1,431,212 Land improvements 191,842 106,242 85,600 Buildings 5,453,747 1,546,467 3,907,280 Furniture and equipment 4,737,681 3,434,313 1,303,368 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------ ------------------ Total $ 11,814,482 $ 5,087,022 $ 6,727,460 ================================================================================= ================== ================= DECEMBER 31, 1998: Land $ 1,787,138 $ - $ 1,787,138 Land improvements 242,744 179,286 63,458 Buildings 5,599,256 1,739,986 3,859,270 Furniture and equipment 4,594,566 3,297,924 1,296,642 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- Total $ 12,223,704 $ 5,217,196 $ 7,006,508 ================================================================================= ================= ================= - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Excellence in Community Banking
21 (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(6) INCOME TAXES ------------ The components of income tax expense (benefit) are as follows: CURRENT DEFERRED TOTAL - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Year ended December 31, 1999: Federal $ 638,500 $ 61,500 $ 700,000 State - - - - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- ---------------- $ 638,500 $ 61,500 $ 700,000 =================================================================================== ================ ================ Year ended December 31, 1998: Federal $ 556,700 $ 72,000 $ 628,700 State 16,300 - 16,300 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- --------------- $ 573,000 $ 72,000 $ 645,000 =================================================================================== ================ =============== Year ended December 31, 1997: Federal $ 660,700 $ (33,700) $ 627,000 State 23,000 - 23,000 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- --------------- $ 683,700 $ (33,700) $ 650,000 =================================================================================== ================ =============== Total income tax expense was less than the amount computed by applying the federal income tax rate of 34% to income before income taxes. The reasons for the difference were as follows: YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1999 1998 1997 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------- -------------- Income taxes at statutory rate $ 967,000 $ 885,000 $ 790,000 Increase (decrease) resulting from: Effect of non-taxable interest income (256,000) (268,000) (187,000) Other, net (11,000) 28,000 47,000 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------- -------------- APPLICABLE INCOME TAXES $ 700,000 $ 645,000 $ 650,000 ================================================================================== ============= ============== The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities at December 31, 1999 and 1998 are presented below: 1999 1998 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -------------- Deferred tax assets: Allowance for probable loan losses $ 693,600 $ 710,600 Unrealized losses on securities available for sale 295,000 - Postretirement benefits 186,200 183,500 Other 13,400 3,700 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -------------- Total gross deferred tax assets $ 1,188,200 $ 897,800 ====================================================================================================== ============== Deferred tax liabilities: Bank premises and equipment, principally due to differences in depreciation $ 325,700 $ 280,800 Unrealized gains on securities available for sale - 347,000 Other 36,000 30,900 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -------------- Total gross deferred tax liabilities 361,700 658,700 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -------------- Net deferred tax asset included in other assets $ 826,500 $ 239,100 ====================================================================================================== ==============
The Company has no valuation allowance at December 31, 1999 or 1998, because management has determined that it has sufficient taxable income in the carryback period to support the realizability of the net deferred tax asset. Income taxes paid during each of the three years ended December 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997 were $654,500, $555,700 and $749,400, respectively. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 22 NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (7) RETIREMENT PLANS AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS -------------------------------------------------- The Company has a defined contribution 401(k) plan that covers all eligible employees. The Company matches employee contributions up to certain amounts as defined in the plan. Total expense related to this plan was $136,242, $98,089 and $117,355 in 1999, 1998 and 1997, repectively. The Company also has a postretirement benefit plan whereby the Company pays postretirement health care benefits for certain of its retirees that have met minimum age and service requirements. The following tables provide information relating to the Company's postretirement benefit plan:
POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1999 1998 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- RECONCILIATION OF BENEFIT OBLIGATION Net benefit obligation, January 1 $ 427,776 $ 449,495 Service Cost 4,815 5,662 Interest cost 29,944 31,465 Actuarial gain 2,341 (42,601) Benefits paid (18,165) (16,245) - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- Net benefit obligation, December 31 446,711 427,776 ========================================================================================================== ================ FAIR VALUE OF PLAN ASSETS - - FUNDED STATUS Funded status, December 31 446,711 427,776 Unrecognized actuarial gain 82,836 89,032 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- Net amount recognized, included in other liabilities $ 529,547 $ 516,808 ========================================================================================================= ================= Net periodic postretirement benefit cost for 1999, 1998 and 1997 includes the following components: 1999 1998 1997 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ---------------- ---------------- Service cost $ 4,815 $ 5,662 $ 6,478 Interest cost 29,944 31,465 32,517 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ---------------- ---------------- NET PERIODIC POSTRETIREMENT BENEFIT COST $ 34,759 $ 37,127 $ 38,995 ==================================================================================== ================ ================ The following table presents assumptions relating to the plan at December 31, 1999 and 1998: 1999 1998 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------- Weighted average discount rate in determining benefit obligation 7.0% 7.0% Annual health care cost trend rate 9.0 9.0 Ultimate medical trend rate 8.0 8.0 Medical trend rate period (in years) 5 5 Effect of 1% increase in assumed health care cost on: Service and interest cost 15.8% 16.2% Benefit obligation 14.3 14.6 Effect of 1% decrease in assumed health care cost on: Service and interest cost (12.9) (13.3) Benefit obligation (11.8) (12.0)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Excellence in Community Banking 23 (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (8) STOCK OPTION PLAN ----------------- During 1998, the Company adopted an Omnibus Stock Ownership and Long-Term Incentive Plan ("the Omnibus Plan") which was approved by the Company's shareholders at the May 13, 1998 annual meeting and which provides for the issuance of up to an aggregate of 159,000 shares of common stock of the Company pursuant to stock options and other awards granted or issued under its terms. At that time, the Board of Directors also awarded to certain officers of the Bank options to purchase an aggregate of 9,516 shares of the Company's common stock pursuant to the terms of the Omnibus Plan at a price equal to the then current market value of $12.50 per share. These options expire on May 13, 2008, and are all currently outstanding as of December 31, 1999. Beginning January 2001, one-third of the options become exercisable each year. If the Company had elected to recognize compensation cost for its stock-based compensation plans in accordance with the fair value based accounting method of SFAS No. 123, net income and earnings per share would have been as follows: 1999 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PRO FORMA AS REPORTED - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net Income $ 2,135,492 $ 2,143,390 Basic and diluted EPS 1.01 1.01 (9) RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS -------------------------- The Company has banking transactions in the ordinary course of business with several of its directors and officers, and their associates. Such transactions are on the same terms as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with others. In the opinion of management, loans made to directors, officers and their associates do not involve more than the normal risk of collectibility or present any other unfavorable features (see note 3). (10) DEPOSITS -------- At December 31, 1999 and 1998, certificates of deposit of $100,000 or more amounted to approximately $32,588,000 and $26,855,000, respectively. Time deposit accounts as of December 31, 1999, mature in the following years and amounts: 2000 - $78,202,969; 2001 - $4,559,352; and 2002 - $1,454,402. For the years ended December 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997, interest expense on certificates of deposit of $100,000 or more amounted to approximately $1,460,000, $1,254,000 and $1,057,000, respectively. The Company made interest payments of $5,714,981, $5,229,772 and $5,249,278 during the years ended December 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997, respectively. (11) STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY AND FORMATION OF HOLDING COMPANY ----------------------------------------------------- On July 22, 1998, and pursuant to a charter amendment, the Bank effected a three-for-one stock split of the Bank's common stock increasing the number of shares of common stock from 593,418 to 1,780,254. Additionally, by way of the same charter amendment, the Bank increased the post-split par value of the common stock from $3.33 per share to $3.50 per share. In connection with the stock split and increase in par value, the Bank increased the capital surplus account in accordance with North Carolina General Statutes Section 53-88. All references to the number of common shares and per share amounts in the financial statements have been restated as appropriate to reflect the effect of the split, for all periods presented. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 24 NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (11) STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY AND FORMATION OF HOLDING COMPANY (continued) On July 22, 1998, the Bank was acquired by Bancorp, which was newly-formed on March 4, 1998, for purposes of such transaction. Each outstanding share of the Bank's common stock was exchanged for one share of Bancorp's common stock with the Bank becoming a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bancorp. Bancorp's primary purpose is to serve as the parent of the Bank. This transaction was accounted for in a manner similar to a pooling-of-interests whereby the historical book values of the Bank's accounts were combined with Bancorp's accounts on the date of the merger. On November 23, 1998 the Company issued 345,000 shares of common stock to the public at a price of $14.25 per share. The net proceeds of the offering were approximately $4,268,000. (12) LEASES ------ The Company also has several noncancellable operating leases for three branch locations. These leases generally contain renewal options for periods ranging from three to twenty years and require the Company to pay all executory costs such as maintenance and insurance. Rental expense for operating leases during 1999, 1998, and 1997 was $94,107, $65,795 and $69,758, respectively. Future minimum lease payments under noncancellable operating leases (with initial or remaining lease terms in excess of one year) as of December 31, 1999 are as follows: Year ending December 31, 2000 $ 172,417 2001 149,017 2002 116,499 2003 106,620 2004 106,620 Thereafter 1,545,990 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total minimum lease payments $ 2,197,163 ================================================================================ (13) RESERVE REQUIREMENTS -------------------- The aggregate net reserve balances maintained under the requirements of the Federal Reserve, which are noninterest bearing, were approximately $3,498,000 at December 31, 1999. (14) COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES ----------------------------- The Company has various financial instruments (outstanding commitments) with off-balance sheet risk that are issued in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of its customers. These financial instruments included commitments to extend credit of $23,346,000 and standby letters of credit of $264,000, at December 31, 1999. The Company's exposure to credit loss for commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit is the contractual amount of those financial instruments. The Company uses the same credit policies for making commitments and issuing standby letters of credit as it does for on-balance sheet financial instruments. Each customer's creditworthiness is evaluated on an individual case-by-case basis. The amount and type of collateral, if deemed necessary by management, is based upon this evaluation of creditworthiness. Collateral obtained varies, but may include marketable securities, deposits, property, plant and equipment, investment assets, real estate, inventories and accounts receivable. Management does not anticipate any significant losses as a result of these financial instruments and anticipates their funding from normal operations. The Company is not involved in any legal proceedings which, in management's opinion, could have a material effect on the consolidated financial position of the Company. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Excellence in Community Banking 25 (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (15) FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS ----------------------------------- Fair value estimates are made by management at a specific point in time, based on relevant information about the financial instrument and the market. These estimates do not reflect any premium or discount that could result from offering for sale at one time the Company's entire holdings of a particular financial instrument nor are potential taxes and other expenses that would be incurred in an actual sale considered. Fair value estimates are based on judgments regarding future expected loss experience, current economic conditions, risk characteristics of various financial instruments, and other factors. These estimates are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment and therefore cannot be determined with precision. Changes in assumptions and/or the methodology used could significantly affect the estimates disclosed. Similarly, the fair values disclosed could vary significantly from amounts realized in actual transactions. Fair value estimates are based on existing on- and off-balance sheet financial instruments without attempting to estimate the value of anticipated future business and the value of assets and liabilities that are not considered financial instruments. The following table presents the carrying values and estimated fair values of the Company's financial instruments at December 31, 1999 and 1998:
1999 1998 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CARRYING ESTIMATED CARRYING ESTIMATED VALUE FAIR VALUE VALUE FAIR VALUE - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Financial assets: Non-interest bearing deposits and cash $ 11,030,000 $ 11,030,000 $ 11,787,000 $ 11,787,000 Federal funds sold 6,650,000 6,650,000 - - Investment securities 58,939,000 58,939,000 58,394,000 58,394,000 FHLB common stock 632,800 632,800 564,800 564,800 Accrued interest receivable 2,259,000 2,259,000 2,096,000 2,096,000 Net loans 144,975,000 151,708,000 130,274,000 130,770,000 Financial liabilities: Deposits $ 203,211,000 $ 205,542,000 $ 184,088,000 $ 175,722,000 Short-term borrowings 2,738,000 2,741,000 2,725,000 2,725,000 Accrued interest payable 816,980 816,980 829,104 829,104 Long-term borrowings 3,000,000 2,796,000 2,725,000 2,725,000
The estimated fair values of net loans and deposits at December 31 are based on cash flows discounted at market interest rates. The carrying values of other financial instruments, including various receivables and payables, approximate fair value. (16) REGULATORY MATTERS ------------------ The Company is subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by the federal banking agencies. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory, and possibly additional discretionary actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on the Company's financial statements. Under capital adequacy guidelines and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, the Bank must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of the Company's assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. The Company's capital amounts and classification are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings, and other factors. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 26 NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (16) REGULATORY MATTERS (continued) The Bank, as a North Carolina chartered bank, may pay dividends only out of undivided profits as determined pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes Section 53-87. However, regulatory authorities may limit payment of dividends by any bank when it is determined that such a limitation is in the public interest and is necessary to ensure the financial soundness of the Bank. Quantitative measures established by regulation to ensure capital adequacy require the Bank to maintain minimum amounts and ratios (set forth in the table below) of total and Tier I capital (as defined in the regulations) to risk-weighted assets (as defined), and of Tier I capital to average assets (as defined). Management believes, as of December 31, 1999, that the Bank meets all capital adequacy requirements to which it is subject. Based on the most recent notification from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC"), the Bank is well-capitalized under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action. To be categorized as well-capitalized, the Bank must maintain minimum total risk-based, Tier I risk-based, and Tier I leverage ratios as set forth in the table. There are no conditions or events since that notification that management believes have changed the Bank's category. The Bank's actual capital amounts, in thousands, and ratios are presented in the following table:
TO BE WELL CAPITALIZED UNDER PROMPT FOR CAPITAL CORRECTIVE ACTUAL ADEQUACY PURPOSES ACTION PROVISIONS - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- AMOUNT RATIO RATIO RATIO - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- As of December 31, 1999: Total Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets) $24,626 15.48% > 8.0% >10.00% Tier I Capital - - (to Risk Weighted Assets) 22,628 14.22% > 4.0% >6.00% Tier I Capital _ - (to Average Assets) 22,268 9.75% > 4.0% >5.00% - - As of December 31, 1998: Total Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets) $22,957 16.25% >8.0% >10.00% Tier I Capital - - (to Risk Weighted Assets) 21,179 15.00% >4.0% >6.00% Tier I Capital - - (to Average Assets) 21,179 10.45% >4.0% >5.00% - - - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Excellence in Community Banking
27 (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (17) ECB BANCORP, INC. (PARENT COMPANY) ECB Bancorp, Inc.'s principal asset is its investment in the Bank, and its principal source of income is dividends from the Bank. The Parent Company condensed balance sheet as of December 31, 1999 and 1998, and the related condensed statements of income and cash flows from the year ended December 31, 1999 and for the period July 22, 1998 (see note 11) to December 31, 1998 are as follows:
CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS 1999 1998 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------ ASSETS Receivable from subsidiary $ 153,848 $ - Investment in subsidiary 22,062,399 21,852,346 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------ Total assets $ 22,216,247 $ 21,852,346 ====================================================================================================== ================== LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Dividends payable $ 153,848 $ - Total shareholders' equity 22,062,399 21,852,346 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------ TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY $ 22,216,247 $ 21,852,346 ====================================================================================================== ================== CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF INCOME Dividends from bank subsidiary $ 540,317 $ 453,965 Equity in undistributed net income of subsidiary 1,603,073 603,168 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------ Net income $ 2,143,390 $ 1,057,133 ====================================================================================================== ================== CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS 1999 1998 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------ Operating activities: Net income $ 2,143,390 $ 1,057,133 Undistributed net income of subsidiary (1,603,073) (603,168) Deferred compensation - restricted stock 6,167 - - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------ Net cash provided by operating activities 546,484 453,965 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------ Investing activities: Investment in subsidiary - (4,267,892) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------ Net cash used by investing activities - (4,267,892) ====================================================================================================== ================== Financing activities: Proceeds from issuance of common stock - 4,267,892 Repurchase of common stock (85,089) - Cash dividends paid (461,395) (453,965) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------ Net cash (used) provided by financing activities (546,484) 3,813,927 ====================================================================================================== ================== Net change in cash $ - $ - ====================================================================================================== ==================
As discussed in note 11, on July 22, 1998 the Parent Company exchanged its common stock for that of the Bank, resulting in an increase in shareholders' equity at the Parent Company of $16,679,425. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 28 MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ECB Bancorp, Inc. ("Bancorp") is a bank holding company headquartered in Engelhard, North Carolina. Bancorp's wholly-owned subsidiary, The East Carolina Bank (the "Bank") (collectively referred to hereafter as the "Company"), is a state-chartered community bank which was founded in 1919. As part of the Bank's growth strategy, management of the Bank perceived that the formation of a holding company likely would result in certain advantages, including additional flexibility in expansion of the Bank's business through the acquisition of other financial institutions or of branch offices of other institutions, in the raising of additional capital through borrowing (if needed) and provide the flexibility to engage in other financial services activities through newly formed subsidiaries or through the acquisition of existing companies. The Bank offers a full range of banking services through 15 branches serving eastern North Carolina, including the communities of Engelhard, Swan Quarter, Columbia, Creswell, Fairfield, Nags Head, Manteo, Southern Shores, Barco, Avon, Hatteras, Ocracoke, Washington and Greenville (two branches). Management's discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations are presented to assist in understanding the financial condition and results of operations of ECB Bancorp, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiary, The East Carolina Bank, for the years 1999, 1998, and 1997. This discussion and the related financial data should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and related footnotes. The operations of the Company and depository institutions in general are significantly influenced by general economic conditions and by related monetary, fiscal and other policies of depository institution regulatory agencies, including the Federal Reserve Board, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the "FDIC") and the North Carolina State Banking Commission. The net income of the Company is dependent, to a large extent, on the differences between interest earned on loans and investments and interest paid on deposits. Deposit flows and costs of funds are influenced by interest rates on competing investments and general market rates of interest. Lending activities are affected by the demand for financing of real estate and other types of loans, which in turn are affected by the interest rates at which such financing may be offered and other factors affecting local demand and availability of funds. Liquidity is the Bank's ability to generate cash to fund asset growth, to meet deposit withdrawals, to maintain regulatory reserve requirements and to pay operating expenses. The principal sources of liquidity are the Bank's investment portfolio, interest from loans and investments, loan principal repayments, and increases in deposits. Sufficient levels of capital are necessary to sustain growth and absorb losses. To this end, the FDIC has established capital adequacy guidelines. These guidelines relate to the Bank's Leverage Capital, Tier 1 and Total Risk Based Capital ("RBC"). For The East Carolina Bank, Leverage Capital consists of total shareholders' equity less unrealized gains or losses, net of income taxes, on securities available-for-sale. As of December 31, 1999, the Bank's Leverage Ratio was 9.75% compared to 10.45% and 8.53%, respectively, at year-end 1998 and 1997. For regulatory purposes, a well-capitalized financial institution must have a Tier 1 Leverage Ratio of at least 5.00%. Within the RBC calculations, The East Carolina Bank's assets, including loan commitments and other off-balance sheet items, are weighted according to Federal regulatory guidelines for risk considered inherent in the assets. The East Carolina Bank's Tier 1 RBC ratio as of December 31, 1999 was 14.22% which is, along with a ratio of 15.00% and 12.40% for 1998 and 1997, respectively, representative of a well-capitalized institution. The calculation of the Total RBC ratio allows, in The East Carolina Bank's circumstances, the inclusion of the allowance for loan losses in capital, but only to the maximum of 1.25% of risk-weighted assets. As of December 31, 1999, The Bank's Total RBC was 15.48% which is representative of a well-capitalized institution. The Total RBC ratios for 1998 and 1997 were 16.25% and 13.66%, respectively, both of which were representative of a well-capitalized financial institution. As of December 31, 1999, shareholders' equity totaled $22.1 million compared to $21.9 million at December 31, 1998. On November 23, 1998 the Company issued 345,000 shares of common stock to the public at a price $14.25 per share. The net proceeds of the offering were approximately $4,268,000. Shareholders' equity included net unrealized securities losses of $566,306 in 1999 and $672,866 of net unrealized securities gains in 1998. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Excellence in Community Banking 29 MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- An adequate capital position provides the Company with expansion capabilities. Retention of sufficient earnings to maintain that adequate capital position is an important factor in determining dividends. During 1999, the Company declared $615,243 in dividends, versus $453,965 in 1998 and $415,393 in 1997. As a percentage of net income in 1999, dividends were 28.7%. On a per share basis, dividends declared in 1999 represented an increase of 13.7% over dividends per share paid in 1998. In 1999, the Company had net income of $2,143,390, or $1.01 basic and diluted earnings per share, compared to $1,959,040 or $1.08 basic and diluted earnings per share (as restated for three-for-one stock split effected July 22, 1998), for the year ended December 31, 1998. Net interest income after the provision for probable loan losses increased $669,221 as a result of an increase in interest income of $1,012,122 and an increase in interest expense of $342,978. This increase in the Company's net interest margin is attributable to loans representing a larger portion of the Company's total earning assets and a lower cost of funds. During 1998, the Bank collected interest on non-accrual loans in the amount of $245,700. Management continuously analyzes the growth and risk characteristics of the total loan portfolio under current economic conditions in order to evaluate the adequacy of the allowance for probable loan losses. The factors that influence management's judgment in determining the amount charged to operating expense include past loan loss experience, composition of the loan portfolio, evaluation of probable loan losses and current economic conditions. The Company's watch committee, which includes three members of senior management as well as regional managers and other credit administration personnel, conducts a quarterly review of all credits classified as substandard. This review follows a re-evaluation by the account officer who has primary responsibility for the relationship. Following hurricanes Dennis and Floyd, management reviewed and assessed its larger credits to determine to what extent the storms may have had on certain borrower's ability to repay. No significant adverse effects are expected on the portfolio. Various regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination process, periodically review the Company's allowance for probable loan losses. Such agencies may require the Company to recognize additions to the allowance for probable loan losses based on their judgments about information available to them at the time of their examination. Nonperforming assets, which consist of loans not accruing interest, restructured loans and real estate acquired in settlement of loans, were $706,000 and $230,000 at December 31, 1999 and 1998, respectively. The increase in nonperforming assets is primarily due to a large farm credit of approximately $365,000 placed on non-accrual status and foreclosure on two properties that totaled $129,000 during the fourth quarter of 1999. At December 31, 1999, the recorded investment in loans that are considered to be impaired under SFAS No. 114 was $366,631 compared to $46,000 at December 31, 1998. Non-interest income, principally charges for the use of the Company's services, is a significant contributor to net earnings. Non-interest income for 1999 increased $37,000 or 1.8% when compared to 1998. Service charges on deposit accounts increased $23,000 or 4.6%, but were offset by a decrease in Non-Sufficient Funds (NSF) service charges of $46,000, resulting in a $19,000 or 1.4% net decrease when compared to 1998. Other service charges and fees increased $10,000 as a result of increased mortgage loan origination fees of $52,000 generated by the Company's new mortgage loan product and payment processing fee income of $38,000. These increases were offset by decreases in net merchant discount fees of $47,000, decreased credit-life loan insurance fees of $19,000 and decreased ATM transaction fees of $15,000. Other non-interest operating income increased $72,000 over the prior period. This increase is principally the result of a net gain on the sale of fixed assets of approximately $42,000. Generally, the Company has been able to increase other income by increasing the prices of its services to partially offset increases in other operating expenses. During 1999, the Company had a net loss on the sale of securities of $27,000 and had no such losses in 1998. Non-interest expenses increased by $466,000 or 5.4% to $9,169,000 in 1999. This increase is principally due to general increases in salary and employee benefits expense of $344,000. The opening of the Washington office in mid-year 1999 accounted for approximately $112,000 of the personnel expense increase while additional staffing within the Company's home offices accounted for an additional $145,000 of personnel expense. Occupancy expense decreased slightly during 1999 as the result of the Company closing the Greenville Wal-Mart office at the end of the first quarter of 1999. The opening of the new Washington office offset this reduction in occupancy expense. Equipment expense increased $117,000 as the Company continues to upgrade its branch platform automation. Professional fees increased $15,000 to $333,000 for 1999. This increase in professional fees is a combination of increased loan-related legal fees of approximately $65,000 resulting from a home equity loan campaign during the first half of 1999 partially offset by decreases in consultant fees of $30,000 and other non-loan-related fees of approximately $29,000. Telephone expense increased approximately $21,000 during 1999 as the Company continues to implement its technology plan to provide the Company a wide area communications network. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 30 MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- In 1998, the Company had net income of $1,959,040, or $1.08 basic and diluted earnings per share, compared to $1,673,251 or $0.94 basic and diluted earnings per share (as restated for three-for-one stock split effected July 22, 1998), for the year ended December 31, 1997. Net interest income after the provision for probable loan losses increased $1,358,599 as a result of an increase in interest income of $1,242,818 and a decrease in interest expense of $4,664. This increase in the Company's net interest margin is attributable to loans representing a larger portion of the Company's total earning assets and, in part, to interest recoveries on certain non-accrual loans and a lower cost of funds. During 1998, the Bank had interest recoveries on non-accrual loans in the amount of $245,700. The provision for probable loan losses decreased $111,117 when compared to 1997 provision expense of $353,513 due primarily to lower levels of nonperforming assets. Nonperforming assets, which consist of loans not accruing interest, restructured debt and real estate acquired in settlement of loans, were $230,000 and $2,325,000 at December 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively. The decrease in nonperforming assets was primarily due to the pay-off of two large nonperforming lending relationships during the year and the sale of a significant portion of real estate acquired in settlement of loans. Through sales, the Company liquidated all other real estate owned reducing the balance to $50,000 at December 31, 1998 from $490,000 at December 31, 1997. Non-interest income, principally charges for the use of the Company's services, is a significant contributor to net earnings. Non-interest income for 1998 increased $107,000 or 5.6% when compared to 1997. Service charges on deposit accounts increased $31,000 or 6.2%, but were offset by a decrease in Non-Sufficient Funds (NSF) service charges of $87,000, resulting in a $56,000 or 4.0% net decrease when compared to 1997. Other service charges and fees increased $66,000 or 12.6% as a result of increased ATM transaction fees of $55,000 that were effected by the Company after the first quarter of 1997. Other non-interest operating income increased $71,000 principally due to mortgage loan origination fees of $54,000 generated by the Company's new mortgage loan product. Generally, the Company has been able to increase other income by increasing the prices of its services to partially offset increases in other operating expenses. Non-interest expenses increased by $1,185,000 or 15.8% in 1998 and by 11.2% in 1997. This increase was caused in part by the opening of new full service branches in Avon and Barco, and a loan production office in Washington, North Carolina. A significant component of non-interest expense is salaries and employee benefits. Salary expense increased $247,000 over 1997 partially as a result of opening the aforementioned offices, and employee benefits increased approximately $112,000 as the Company increased cash awards paid to employees participating in the Company's performance based incentive program. When compared to 1997, net occupancy expense increased $97,000 or 15.6% as a result of opening the aforementioned offices, and equipment expense increased $107,000 due to the Company upgrading its host processor and continued introduction of branch automation. The Company's telephone expense increased $48,000 over last year as a result of increased usage of the Company's Xpress phone banking system introduced during the second quarter of 1997. Professional fees increased $109,000 in connection with non-recurring legal and accounting fees incurred related to the formation of Bancorp in 1998. Other non-interest expenses increased $412,000 from $1,419,000 in 1997 to $1,831,000 in 1998. This increase is principally attributable to increases in marketing expense and non-recurring expenses related to the planned closing of the Company's Wal-Mart Supercenter office in March of 1999. Marketing expense increased approximately $182,000 over 1997 as the Company launched a broad range of mortgage products and its new Club 7 Visa Card, a program done in conjunction with a local television station. During December of 1998, the Company expensed approximately $157,000 relating to the closing of the Wal-Mart Supercenter office. These expenses consisted primarily of obligated lease payments of $50,000 and write-off of leasehold improvements of approximately $87,000. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Excellence in Community Banking 31 MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- TABLE 1. AVERAGE BALANCES AND NET INTEREST INCOME ANALYSIS
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1999 1998 1997 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- AVERAGE YIELD/ INCOME/ AVERAGE YIELD/ INCOME/ AVERAGE YIELD/ INCOME/ BALANCE RATE EXPENSE BALANCE RATE EXPENSE BALANCE RATE EXPENSE - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS) ASSETS - ---------------------- Loans - net (1) $138,837 9.01% $12,512 $124,794 9.63% $12,015 $115,487 9.43% $10,887 Taxable securities 39,712 5.84% 2,320 31,721 5.91% 1,874 29,705 5.89% 1,750 Non-taxable securities (2) 15,940 7.22% 1,152 15,318 7.44% 1,139 10,254 7.57% 776 Federal funds sold 6,084 4.96% 302 4,601 5.26% 242 9,125 5.38% 491 - ----------------------- ----------- ------- --------- --------- -------- -------- -------- ------- --------- Total interest- earning assets 200,573 8.12% 16,286 176,434 8.66% 15,270 164,571 8.45% 13,904 Cash and due from banks 10,918 9,122 7,715 Bank premises and equipment, net 7,282 6,542 5,929 Other assets 2,825 2,520 2,300 - ----------------------- ----------- --------- -------- TOTAL ASSETS $221,598 $194,618 $180,515 ======================== =========== ========= ========= LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY - ------------------------- Interest-bearing deposits $154,668 3.58% $ 5,542 $140,585 3.81% $ 5,351 $135,789 3.95% $ 5,364 Short-term borrowings 711 4.22% 30 152 5.92% 9 - - - Long-term obligations 2,827 4.63% 131 - - - - - - - ----------------------- ----------- ------- --------- --------- -------- -------- -------- ------- --------- Total interest- bearing liabilities 158,206 3.60% 5,703 140,737 3.81% 5,360 135,789 3.95% 5,364 Non-interest-bearing deposits 39,941 35,272 28,574 Other liabilities 1,385 1,314 1,039 Shareholders' equity 22,066 17,295 15,113 - ----------------------- ----------- --------- -------- Total liabilities and SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY $221,598 $194,618 $180,515 ======================== =========== ========= ========= Net interest income and net yield on interest-earning assets (FTE) 5.28% $10,583 5.62% $ 9,910 5.19% $ 8,540 ======================== ====== ======= ===== ======= ===== ======= Interest rate spread (FTE) 4.52% 4.85% 4.50%
(1) Average loans, net of the allowance for probable loan losses and unearned income. These figures include non-accruing loans, the effect of which is to lower the average rates. (2) Yields on tax-exempt investments have been adjusted to a fully taxable-equivalent basis (FTE) using the federal income tax rate of 34%. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 32 MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Changes in interest income and interest expense can result from variances in both volume and rates. Table 2 below analyzes the effect of variances in volume and rate on taxable-equivalent interest income, interest expenses and net interest income. TABLE 2. VOLUME AND RATE VARIANCE ANALYSIS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1999 COMPARED TO 1998 1998 COMPARED TO 1997 VOLUME (1) RATE (1) NET VOLUME (1) RATE (1) NET - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS) Loans $ 1,309 $ (812) $ 497 $ 887 $ 241 $ 1,128 Taxable securities 469 (23) 446 119 5 124 Non-taxable securities (2) 46 (33) 13 380 (17) 363 Federal funds sold 76 (16) 60 (241) (8) (249) - --------------------------------------------------------------- ------- ---------- ---------- -------- ------- Interest income 1,900 (884) 1,016 1,145 221 1,366 Interest-bearing deposits 520 (329) 191 186 (199) (13) Short-term borrowings 28 (7) 21 5 4 9 Long-term obligations 66 65 131 - - - - --------------------------------------------------------------- ------- ---------- ---------- -------- ------- Interest expense 614 (271) 343 191 (195) (4) - --------------------------------------------------------------- ------- ---------- ---------- -------- ------- Net interest income $ 1,286 $ (613) $ 673 $ 954 $ 416 $ 1,370 =============================================================== ======= ========== ========== ======== ========
(1) The combined rate/volume variance for each category has been allocated equally between rate and volume variances. (2) Yields on tax-exempt investments have been adjusted to a taxable-equivalent basis using the federal income tax rate of 34%. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Excellence in Community Banking 33 MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Rate sensitivity analysis, an important aspect of achieving satisfactory levels of net interest income, is the management of the composition and maturities of rate-sensitive assets and liabilities. The following table sets forth the Company's interest sensitivity analysis at December 31, and describes, at various cumulative maturity intervals, the gap ratios (ratios of rate-sensitive assets to rate-sensitive liabilities) for assets and liabilities that management considers rate sensitive. TABLE 3. RATE SENSITIVITY ANALYSIS AS OF DECEMBER 31, 1999
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3 MONTHS 4 TO 12 TOTAL WITHIN OVER 12 OR LESS MONTHS 12 MONTHS MONTHS TOTAL - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS) EARNING ASSETS Loans-gross $ 58,650 $ 8,096 $ 66,746 $ 80,930 $ 147,676 Investment securities 5,087 6,715 11,802 47,127 58,929 FHLB stock 633 - 633 - 633 Federal funds sold 6,650 - 6,650 - 6,650 - ----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------- ---------- ---------- ------------ Total earning assets $ 71,020 $ 14,811 $ 85,831 $ 128,057 $ 213,888 ================================================================= =========== ========== ========== ============ Percent of total earning assets 33.2% 6.9% 40.1% 59.9% 100.0% Cumulative % of total earnings assets 33.2% 40.1% 40.1% 100.0% INTEREST-BEARING LIABILITIES Time deposits of $100,000 or more $ 14,139 $ 17,936 $ 32,075 $ 513 $ 32,588 Savings, NOW and Money Market deposits 75,447 - 75,447 - 75,447 Other time deposits 18,149 27,954 46,103 5,526 51,629 Short-term borrowings 2,738 - 2,738 - 2,738 Long-term obligations - - - 3,000 3,000 - ----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------- ---------- ---------- ------------ Total interest-bearing liabilities $ 110,473 $ 45,890 $ 156,363 $ 9,039 $ 165,402 ================================================================= =========== ========== ========== ============ Percent of total interest-bearing liabilities 66.8% 27.7% 94.5% 5.5% 100.0% Cumulative percent of total interest-bearing liabilities 66.8% 94.5% 94.5% 100.0% RATIOS Ratio of earning assets to interest-bearing liabilities (gap ratio) 64.3% 32.3% 54.9% 1416.8% Cumulative ratio or earning assets to interest-bearing liabilities (cumulative gap ratio) 64.3% 54.9% 54.9% 129.3% Interest sensitivity gap $ (39,453) $ (31,079) $ (70,532) $ 119,028 $ 48,496 Cumulative interest sensitivity gap $ (39,453) $ (70,532) $ (70,532) $ 48,496 $ 48,496 As a percent of total earning assets (18.4)% (33.0)% (33.0)% 22.7% 22.7%
In periods of rising interest rates, the Company's rate-sensitive assets cannot be repriced as quickly as its rate-sensitive liabilities. Thus, the Company's net interest income generally will decrease during a period of rising interest rates. In periods of declining interest rates the opposite effect occurs. As of December 31, 1999, approximately 40.1% of the Company's interest-earning assets could be repriced within one year and approximately 87.2% of interest-earning assets could be repriced with in five years. Approximately 94.5% of interest-bearing liabilities could be repriced within one year and substantially all interest-bearing liabilities could be repriced within five years. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 34 MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- INTEREST SENSITIVITY Deregulation of interest rates and short-term, interest bearing deposits which are more volatile, have created a need for shorter maturities of earning assets. As a result, an increasing percentage of commercial, installment and mortgage loans are being made with variable rates or shorter maturities to increase liquidity and interest rate sensitivity. The difference between interest sensitive asset and interest sensitive liability repricing within time periods is referred to as the interest rate sensitivity gap. Gaps are identified as either positive (interest sensitive assets in excess of interest sensitive liabilities) or negative (interest sensitive liabilities in excess of interest sensitive assets). As of December 31, 1999 the Company had a negative one year cumulative gap of 33.0%. The Company has interest earning assets of $86 million maturing or repricing within one year and interest bearing liabilities of $156 million repricing or maturing within one year. This is primarily the result of stable core deposits being used to fund longer term interest earning assets, such as loans and investment securities. A negative gap position implies that interest bearing liabilities (deposits) will reprice at a faster rate than interest earning assets (loans and investments). In a falling rate environment, this position will generally have a positive effect on earnings, while in a rising rate environment this will generally have a negative effect on earnings. The Company's savings and core time deposits of $127 million include interest bearing checking and savings accounts of $75 million. These deposits are considered as repricing in the earliest period because the rate can be changed weekly. However, history has shown that the decreases in the rates paid on these deposits have little, if any, effect on their movement out of the Company. Therefore, in reality, they are not sensitive to changes in market rates and could be considered in the Non-Rate Sensitive column. If this change were made, the Company's rate sensitive liabilities would be more closely matched at the end of the one year period.
TABLE 4. MARKET RISK Principal Maturing in Years ended December 31, - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FAIR 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 THEREAFTER TOTAL VALUE - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS) Assets Loans Fixed rate $12,304 $10,942 $11,116 $18,684 $23,633 $16,555 $93,234 $99,966 Average rate (%) 8.89% 9.39% 8.98% 8.58% 8.40% 7.74% 8.57% Variable rate 26,548 4,421 3,343 4,823 8,656 6,651 54,442 54,442 Average rate (%) 9.33% 8.43% 8.69% 8.42% 8.60% 8.59% 9.12% Investment securities Fixed rate 11,811 12,267 14,524 6,369 1,980 12,846 59,797 58,939 Average rate (%) 6.13% 6.27% 6.08% 6.02% 7.13% 6.54% 6.25% Liabilities Savings and interest bearing checking Variable rate 75,447 - - - - - 75,447 75,447 Average rate (%) 2.01% - - - - - 2.01% Certificates of deposits Fixed rate 77,874 4,580 1,459 - - - 83,913 86,243 Average rate (%) 5.15% 5.12% 5.63% - - - 5.16% Variable rate 304 - - - - - 304 304 Average rate (%) 3.92% - - - - 3.92% Short-term borrowings Variable rate 2,738 - - - - - 2,738 2,741 Average rate (%) 4.24% - - - - - 4.24% Long-term obligations Fixed rate - - - - 3,000 - 3,000 2,796 Average rate (%) - - - - 4.70% - 4.70% - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Excellence in Community Banking
35 MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Non-interest income, principally charges for the use of the Company's services, is a significant contributor to net earnings. Non-interest income for 1999 increased $37,000 or 1.8% when compared to 1998. Service charges on deposit accounts increased $23,000 or 4.6% but was offset by a decrease in NSF service charges of $46,000, resulting in a $19,000 or 1.4% net decrease when compared to the same period in 1998. Other service charges and fees increased $10,000 as a result of increased mortgage loan origination fees of $52,000 generated by the Company's new mortgage loan product and payment processing fee income of $38,000. These increases were offset by decreases in net merchant discount fees of $47,000, decreased credit-life loan insurance fees of $19,000 and decreased ATM fees of $15,000. Other operating income increased $72,000 over the prior year period. This increase is primarily the result of a net gain on the sale of fixed assets of approximately $42,000. TABLE 5. NON-INTEREST INCOME YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1999 1998 1997 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS) Service charges on deposit accounts $1,316 $1,335 $1,391 Other service charges and fees 601 591 525 Net loss on sale of securities (27) - (26) Other 174 101 30 - ------------------------------------------------------- --------- --------- Total $2,064 $2,027 $1,920 ======================================================= ========= ========= Non-interest expense increased by $466,000 or 5.4% to $9,169,000 in 1999. This increase is principally due to general increases in salary and employee benefits expense of $344,000. The opening of the Washington office in mid-year 1999 accounted for approximately $112,000 of the personnel expense increase while additional staffing within the Company's home offices accounted for an additional $145,000 of personnel expense. Occupancy expense decreased slightly during 1999 as the result of the Company closing the Greenville Wal-Mart office at the end of the first quarter of 1999. This reduction in occupancy expense offset the opening on the new Washington office. Equipment expense increased $117,000 as the Company continues to upgrade its branch platform automation. Professional fees increased $15,000 to $333,000 for 1999. This increase in professional fees is a combination of increased loan-related legal fees of approximately $65,000 resulting from a home equity loan campaign during the first half of 1999 partially offset by decreases in consultant fees of $30,000 and other non-loan-related legal fees of approximately $29,000. Telephone expense increased approximately $21,000 during 1999 as the Company continues to implement its technology plan to provide the Company a wide area communications network. TABLE 6. NON-INTEREST EXPENSE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1999 1998 1997 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS) Salaries $3,542 $3,186 $2,939 Retirement and other employee benefits 1,073 1,084 971 Occupancy 718 720 623 Equipment 992 875 768 Professional fees 333 318 209 Supplies 240 251 222 Telephone 286 265 217 Postage 173 172 150 Other 1,812 1,832 1,419 - ----------------------------------------------------- -------- --------- Total $9,169 $8,703 $7,518 ===================================================== ======== ========= - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 36 MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION Management believes the Company's financial condition is sound. The following discussion focuses on the factors considered by management to be important in assessing the Company's financial condition. The following table sets forth the percentage of significant components of the Company's balance sheets at December 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997.
TABLE 7. DISTRIBUTION OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES DECEMBER 31, - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1999 1998 1997 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS) ASSETS Loans (net) $144,976 62.2% $130,274 61.9% $118,549 63.0% Investment securities 58,939 25.3% 58,394 27.7% 47,120 25.0% FHLB stock 633 0.3% 565 0.3% 503 0.3% Federal funds sold 6,650 2.8% - - 4,425 2.4% - ------------------------------------------------------- -------- ---------- -------- ---------- ---------- Total earning assets 211,198 90.6% 189,233 89.9% 170,597 90.7% Cash and due from banks 11,139 4.7% 11,965 5.6% 8,281 4.4% Bank premises and equipment, net 6,727 2.9% 7,007 3.3% 6,266 3.3% Other assets 4,049 1.8% 2,697 1.2% 3,084 1.6% - ------------------------------------------------------- -------- ---------- -------- ---------- ---------- Total assets $233,113 100.0% $210,902 100.0% $188,228 100.0% ======================================================= ======== ========== ======== ========== ========== LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Demand deposits $ 43,637 18.7% $ 38,265 18.1% $ 31,897 16.9% Savings, NOW and Money market deposits 75,447 32.4% 62,672 29.7% 55,969 29.7% Time deposits of $100,000 or more 32,588 14.0% 26,855 12.7% 19,503 10.4% Other time deposits 51,629 22.1% 56,475 26.8% 63,540 33.8% - ------------------------------------------------------- -------- ---------- -------- ---------- ---------- Total deposits 203,301 87.2% 184,267 87.3% 170,909 90.8% Short-term borrowings 2,738 1.2% 2,725 1.3% - - Accrued expense and other liabilities 2,012 0.8% 2,058 1.0% 1,606 0.9% Long-term obligations 3,000 1.3% - - - - - ------------------------------------------------------- -------- ---------- -------- ---------- ---------- Total liabilities 211,051 90.5% 189,050 89.6% 172,515 91.7% Shareholders' equity 22,062 9.5% 21,852 10.4% 15,713 8.3% - ------------------------------------------------------- -------- ---------- -------- ---------- ---------- Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $233,113 100.0% $210,902 100.0% $188,228 100.0% ======================================================= ======== ========== ======== ========== ==========
(Bar graphs appear here with the following plot points.) In Thousands TOTAL ASSETS 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 $165,408 $167,218 $188,228 $210,902 $233,113 In Thousands TOTAL DEPOSITS 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 $150,436 $151,336 $170,909 $184,267 $203,301 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Excellence in Community Banking 37 MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO The carrying values of investment securities held by the Company at the dates indicated are summarized as follows:
TABLE 8. INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO COMPOSITION DECEMBER 31, - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1999 1998 1997 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS) SECURITIES AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE U.S. Treasury $15,958 27.1% $19,452 33.3% $25,228 53.6% U.S. Government agencies 25,922 44.0% 20,962 35.9% 7,052 14.9% Mortgage-backed securities 2,559 4.3% 555 1.0% 783 1.7% State and political subdivisions 14,500 24.6% 17,425 29.8% 14,057 29.8% - ---------------------------------- -------- -------- --------- --------- -------- ------- Total investments $58,939 100.0% $58,394 100.0% $47,120 100.0% - ---------------------------------- -------- -------- --------- --------- -------- ------- The following table shows maturities of the carrying values of investment securities held by the Company at December 31, 1999, and the weighted average yields. TABLE 9. INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO MATURITY SCHEDULES AFTER ONE YEAR AFTER FIVE YEARS WITHIN BUT WITHIN BUT WITHIN AFTER ONE YEAR FIVE YEARS TEN YEARS TEN YEARS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ AMOUNT YIELD AMOUNT YIELD AMOUNT YIELD AMOUNT YIELD TOTAL YIELD - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS) AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE: U.S. Treasury $ 6,007 6.21% $ 9,951 6.01% - - - - $15,958 6.09% U.S. Government agencies 3,976 5.35% 21,946 6.05% - - - - 25,922 5.95% Mortgage-backed securities - - 1,581 7.07% $ 978 6.99% - - 2,559 7.04% State and political subdivisions (1) 1,819 7.57% 3,418 7.64% 6,360 6.24% 2,903 6.89% 14,500 6.86% - ------------------------------- ------- -------- ------- -------- ------- ------- ------ ------- ------ TOTAL $11,802 6.13% $36,896 6.23% $7,338 6.34% $2,903 6.89% $58,939 6.25% =============================== ======= ======== ======= ======== ======= ======= ====== ======== ======
(1) Yields on tax-exempt investments have been adjusted to a fully taxable-equivalent basis using the federal income tax rate of 34%. The weighted average yields shown are calculated on the basis of cost and effective yields for the scheduled maturity of each security. At December 31, 1999 the market value of the investment portfolio was approximately $858,000 below its book value, which is the result of higher market interest rates compared to the interest rates on the investments in the portfolio. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 38 MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- LOAN PORTFOLIO The Company's management believes the loan portfolio is adequately diversified and contains no foreign loans. Real estate loans represent approximately 57.4% of the Company's loan portfolio. Real estate loans are primarily loans secured by real estate, mortgage, and construction loans. The Company does not have a large portfolio of home mortgage loans. See note (1) below. Commercial loans are spread throughout a variety of industries, with no particular industry or group of related industries accounting for a significant portion of the commercial loan portfolio. At December 31, 1999, the ten largest loans of the Company accounted for approximately 6.4% of the Company's outstanding loans. As of December 31, 1999, the Company had outstanding loan commitments of approximately $23,346,000. The amounts of loans outstanding at the indicated dates are shown in the following table according to loan type.
TABLE 10. LOAN PORTFOLIO COMPOSITION DECEMBER 31, - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS) Real estate (1) $ 83,116 $ 64,538 $ 63,300 $ 65,253 $ 58,095 Installment loans 11,622 11,339 25,424 18,472 13,353 Credit cards and related plans 3,817 3,694 3,415 3,183 3,017 Commercial and all other loans 49,121 53,453 29,070 25,748 20,024 - --------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- --------- Total $147,676 $133,024 $121,209 $112,656 $ 94,489 ===================================================================== ========== ========== ========== ========= (1) The majority of these loans are various consumer and commercial loans with approval based on cash flow and not the real estate. The majority of the commercial real estate is owner-occupied and operated. MATURITIES AND SENSITIVITIES OF LOANS TO CHANGES IN INTEREST RATES The following table sets forth the maturity distribution of the Company's loans as of December 31, 1999. A significant majority of loans maturing after one year are repriced at two and three year intervals. In addition, approximately 36.9% of the Company's loan portfolio is comprised of variable rate loans. TABLE 11. LOAN MATURITIES - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CREDIT CARDS COMMERCIAL REAL AND RELATED AND ALL ESTATE INSTALLMENT PLANS OTHER LOANS TOTAL - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS) Due in 1 year or less $10,012 $ 1,313 $3,595 $23,933 $ 38,853 Due after 1 year through 5 years: Floating interest 14,352 394 156 8,188 23,090 Fixed interest rates 45,725 9,692 - 13,192 68,609 Due after 5 years: Floating interest rates 3,135 9 66 1,594 4,804 Fixed interest rates 9,892 214 - 2,214 12,320 - ------------------------------------------------------------- ----------- ---------- ----------- ---------- Total $83,116 $11,622 $3,817 $49,121 $147,676 ============================================================= =========== ========== =========== ==========
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Excellence in Community Banking 39 MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NONPERFORMING ASSETS AND PAST DUE LOANS A loan is placed on non-accrual status when, in management's judgment, the collection of interest income appears doubtful or the loan is past due 90 days or more. Interest receivable that has been accrued and is subsequently determined to have doubtful collectibility is charged to the appropriate interest income account. Interest on loans that are classified as non-accrual is recognized when received. In some cases, where borrowers are experiencing financial difficulties, loans may be restructured to provide terms significantly different from the original terms. Foreclosed properties are included in other assets and represent other real estate that has been acquired through loan foreclosures or deeds in lieu of foreclosure. Such properties are initially recorded at the lower of cost or fair value less estimated costs to sell. Thereafter the properties are maintained at the lower of cost or fair value. The following table summarizes the Company's nonperforming assets and past due loans at the dates indicated. TABLE 12. NONPERFORMING ASSETS AND PAST DUE LOANS
DECEMBER 31, - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS) Non-accrual loans $408 $ 88 $1,463 $1,017 $531 Loans past due 90 or more days still accruing 34 - - 35 - Restructured loans 81 92 49 57 65 Foreclosed properties 183 50 340 - 296 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------- ------- -------- ------- Total $706 $230 $1,852 $1,109 $892 =========================================================================== ======== ======= ======== ======= As of December 31, 1999 and 1998, nonperforming assets and past due loans were approximately 0.48% and 0.17%, respectively, of the loans outstanding at such dates. SUMMARY OF LOAN LOSS EXPERIENCE The allowance for probable loan losses is created by direct charges to operations. Losses on loans are charged against the allowance in the period in which such loans, in management's opinion, become uncollectible. Recoveries during the period are credited to this allowance. The factors that influence management's judgment in determining the amount charged to operating expense include past loan loss experience, composition of the loan portfolio, evaluation of estimated probable loan losses and current economic conditions. The Company's loan watch committee, which includes three members of senior management as well as regional managers and other credit administration personnel, conducts a quarterly review of all credits classified as substandard. This review follows a re-evaluation by the account officer who has primary responsibility for the relationship. The following table sets forth the allocation of allowance for probable loan losses and percent of total loans in each loan for each of the years presented. TABLE 13. ALLOCATION OF ALLOWANCE FOR PROBABLE LOAN LOSSES DECEMBER 31, - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 AMOUNT PERCENT AMOUNT PERCENT AMOUNT PERCENT AMOUNT PERCENT AMOUNT PERCENT - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS) Real estate $1,647 56.2% $1,619 48.5% $1,690 52.2% $1,388 57.9% $1,192 61.5% Installment loans 237 7.9% 166 8.5% 389 21.0% 337 16.4% 165 14.1% Credit cards and related plans 166 2.6% 160 2.8% 390 2.8% 167 2.8% 143 3.2% Commercial and all other items 646 33.3% 624 40.2% 149 24.0% 445 22.9% 337 21.2% - ------------------------------------------ ------- ------ ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ----------- Total allocated 2,696 100.0% 2,569 100.0% 2,618 100.0% 2,337 100.0% 1,837 100.0% Unallocated 4 181 42 63 113 - ------------------------------------------ --------- -------- --------- ------- Total $2,700 $2,750 $2,660 $2,400 $1,950 ========================================== ========= ======== ========= =======
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 40 MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Management considers the allowance for probable loan losses adequate to cover estimated probable loan losses on the loans outstanding as of each reporting period. It must be emphasized, however, that the determination of the allowance using the Company's procedures and methods rests upon various judgments and assumptions about economic conditions and other factors affecting loans. No assurance can be given that the Company will not in any particular period sustain loan losses that are sizable in relation to the amount reserved or that subsequent evaluations of the loan portfolio, in light of conditions and factors then prevailing, will not require significant changes in the allowance for probable loan losses or future charges to earnings. The following table summarizes the Company's balances of loans outstanding, average loans outstanding, changes in the allowance arising from charge-offs and recoveries by category, and additions to the allowance that have been charged to expense.
TABLE 14. LOAN LOSS AND RECOVERY EXPERIENCE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS) Total loans outstanding at end of year $147,676 $133,024 $121,209 $112,656 $94,489 ========================================================================== =========== ========== =========== ========== Average loans outstanding during year 141,564 127,650 118,185 104,297 93,584 ========================================================================== =========== ========== =========== ========== Allowance for probable loan losses at beginning of year $2,750 $2,660 $2,400 $1,950 $1,900 Loans charged off: Real estate 69 21 6 12 89 Installment loans 80 89 62 62 72 Credit cards and related plans 72 119 110 111 49 Commercial and all other loans 145 2 17 81 338 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------- ---------- ----------- ---------- Total charge-offs 366 231 195 266 548 Recoveries of loans previously charged off: Real estate 6 - - 118 - Installment loans 25 22 22 26 31 Credit cards and related plans 27 23 36 34 19 Commercial and all other loans 16 34 43 41 33 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------- ---------- ----------- ---------- Total recoveries 74 79 101 219 83 Net charge-offs 292 152 94 47 465 Additions to the allowance charged to expense 242 242 354 497 515 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------- ---------- ----------- ---------- Allowance for probable loan losses at end of year $2,700 $2,750 $2,660 $2,400 $1,950 ========================================================================== =========== ========== =========== ========== RATIOS Net charge-offs during year to average loans outstanding 0.21% 0.12% 0.08% 0.05% 0.50% Net charge-offs during year to loans at year-end 0.20% 0.11% 0.08% 0.04% 0.49% Allowance for probable loan losses to average loans 1.91% 2.15% 2.25% 2.30% 2.08% Allowance for probable loan losses to loans at year-end 1.83% 2.07% 2.19% 2.13% 2.06% Net charge-offs to allowance for probable loan losses 10.81% 5.53% 3.53% 1.96% 23.85% Net charge-offs to provision for probable loan losses 120.66% 62.81% 26.55% 9.46% 90.29% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Excellence in Community Banking
41 MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPOSITS The average amounts of deposits of the Company for the years ended December 31, 1999 and 1998 are summarized below: TABLE 15. AVERAGE DEPOSITS
DECEMBER 31, - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1999 1998 1997 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- AVERAGE AVERAGE AVERAGE BALANCE RATE BALANCE RATE BALANCE RATE - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS) Interest-bearing demand deposits $ 59,105 2.12% $ 42,807 1.60% $ 40,029 1.75% Savings deposits 14,115 1.58% 14,648 1.94% 14,956 2.06% Time deposits 81,448 4.99% 83,130 5.27% 80,804 5.39% - ------------------------------------------------------ --------- ---------- --------- ----------- --------- Total interest-bearing deposits 154,668 3.58% 140,585 3.81% 135,789 3.95% - ------------------------------------------------------ --------- ---------- --------- ----------- --------- Non-interest-bearing deposits 39,941 - 35,272 - 28,574 - - ------------------------------------------------------ --------- ---------- --------- ----------- --------- Total deposits $194,609 2.85% $175,857 3.04% $164,363 3.26% ====================================================== ========= ========== ========= =========== ========= The Company has a large, stable base of time deposits with little dependence on volatile deposits of $100,000 or more. The time deposits are principally certificates of deposits and individual retirement accounts obtained from individual customers. Deposits of certain local governments and municipal entities represented approximately 9.3% of the Company's total deposits at December 31, 1999. All such public funds are collateralized by investment securities. The Company does not purchase brokered deposits. As of December 31, 1999, the Company held approximately $32,588,000 in time deposits of $100,000 or more and time deposits less than $100,000 of $51,629,000. The following table is a maturity schedule of time deposits as of December 31, 1999. TABLE 16. TIME DEPOSIT MATURITY SCHEDULE - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3 MONTHS 4 TO 6 7 TO 12 OVER 12 OR LESS MONTHS MONTHS MONTHS TOTAL - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS) Time certificates of deposit of $100,000 or more $14,139 $ 9,307 $ 8,629 $ 513 $32,588 Time certificates of deposit less than $100,000 18,149 13,959 13,995 5,526 51,629 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ---------- --------- --------- ------------ Total time deposits $32,288 $23,266 $22,624 $6,039 $84,217 ======================================================================== ========== ========= ========= ============
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 42 MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- RETURN ON ASSETS AND EQUITY The following table shows return on assets (net income divided by average assets), return on equity (net income divided by average shareholders' equity), dividend payout ratio (dividends declared per share divided by net income per share) and shareholders' equity to assets ratio (average shareholders' equity divided by average total assets) for each of the years presented. TABLE 17. RETURN ON ASSETS AND EQUITY YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1999 1998 1997 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Return on assets 0.97% 1.01% 0.93% Return on equity 9.71% 11.33% 11.07% Dividend payout 28.69% 23.64% 24.82% Shareholders' equity to assets 9.96% 8.89% 8.37% ACCOUNTING AND OTHER MATTERS In June 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities." This statement establishes accounting and reporting standards for derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts, and for hedging activities. It requires that an entity recognize all derivatives as either assets or liabilities in the balance sheet and measure those instruments at fair value. The accounting for changes in the fair value of a derivative depends on the intended use of the derivative and the resulting designation. This statement, as amended, is effective for all fiscal quarters of fiscal years beginning after June 15, 2000. Earlier application of all of the provisions of this statement is encouraged. The Company plans to adopt this statement at January 1, 2001 and does not anticipate any material effect on its consolidated financial statements. The FASB also issues exposure drafts for proposed statements of financial accounting standards. Such exposure drafts are subject to comment from the public, to revisions by the FASB and to final issuance by the FASB as statements of financial accounting standards. Management considers the effect of the proposed statements on the consolidated financial statements of the Company and monitors the status of changes to issued exposure drafts and to proposed effective dates. YEAR 2000 PREPARATIONS Bancorp has not experienced any significant impact on the operations due to Year 2000 problems. The date change has resulted in no major interruptions in service. Although Bancorp has not been informed of any material risks associated with the Year 2000 problem from third parties, there can be no assurance that Bancorp will not be impacted in the future. Bancorp will continue to reevaluate its Year 2000 operations and monitor its progress. Management does not expect Year 2000 issues to have a material adverse effect on operations or financial results during 2000. During 1999 the Company expensed approximately $119,000 and life-to-date expensed approximately $166,000 relating to Y2K compliance. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Excellence in Community Banking 43 (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND SUBSIDIARY CORPORATIONS - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BOARD OF DIRECTORS - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- GEORGE THOMAS DAVIS, JR. ARTHUR H. KEENEY, III ROBERT L. MITCHELL Vice Chairman of the Board President and CEO Barber and Retired Magistrate Attorney at Law The East Carolina Bank Mitchell's Barber Shop Davis & Davis Attorneys Engelhard, North Carolina Columbia, North Carolina Swan Quarter, North Carolina J. BRYANT KITTRELL, III R.S. SPENCER, JR. C. GILBERT GIBBS President and Owner Chairman of the Board Farmer and Merchant Kittrell & Associates, Inc. President, R.S. Spencer, Inc. C.G. Gibbs Hardware Greenville, North Carolina Merchant Engelhard, North Carolina Engelhard, North Carolina JOSEPH T. LAMB, JR. GREGORY C. GIBBS President RAY MITCHELL SPENCER Financial Planner Joe Lamb, Jr. & Associates, Inc. Retired Farmer Piedmont Carolinas Group, LLC Real Estate Sales and Rentals Swan Quarter, North Carolina Raleigh, North Carolina Nags Head, North Carolina JOHN F. HUGHES, JR. B. MARTELLE MARSHALL JO ELLEN G. CUTRELL Resident Manager Co-owner and Operator Corporate Secretary North Carolina Power Martelle's Restaurant & Catering Manteo, North Carolina Engelhard, North Carolina THE EAST CAROLINA BANK SUBSIDIARY CORPORATIONS - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CAROLINA FINANCIAL REALTY, INC. CAROLINA FINANCIAL COURIER, INC. - ------------------------------- -------------------------------- GREGORY C. GIBBS GREGORY C. GIBBS President President B. MARTELLE MARSHALL B. MARTELLE MARSHALL Vice President Vice President ARTHUR H. KEENEY, III ARTHUR H. KEENEY, III Corporate Secretary and Treasurer Corporate Secretary and Treasurer
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 44 BANK SENIOR MANAGEMENT and CORPORATE OFFICERS (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BANK SENIOR MANAGEMENT * ARTHUR H. KEENEY, III * GARY M. ADAMS JO ELLEN G. CUTRELL President and Senior Vice President Corporate Secretary Chief Executive Officer Chief Financial Officer * J. DORSON WHITE, JR. * WILLIAM F. PLYLER, II Executive Vice President Senior Vice President Branch Administration Chief Credit Officer * Denotes Policy-making Officers of the Bank - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CORPORATE OFFICERS ARTHUR H. KEENEY, III GARY M. ADAMS JO ELLEN G. CUTRELL President and Senior Vice President Corporate Secretary Chief Executive Officer Chief Financial Officer - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Excellence in Community Banking 45 (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) BANK OFFICERS AND DEPARTMENT MANAGERS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BANK OFFICERS
ACCOUNTING BANK CARD SERVICES MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS JUDITH C. TOMLINSON T. ANN WILLIAMS EDWARD H. HEFLIN Vice President Vice President Vice President AGRI-BUSINESS BANK OPERATIONS CANDIS GEORGE ARTHUR R. "BUCK" SPRUILL, III EDNA H. SUKEFORTH Assistant Vice President Vice President Vice President Agri-Business Officer MARKETING CREDIT ADMINISTRATION MIMI W. VAN NORTWICK WALTER T. "TOM" FELTON MARLA C. GIBBS Assistant Vice President Banking Officer Vice President Agri-Business Officer ELIZABETH C. STANLEY MATTHEW J. BYRNE Assistant Vice President AUDIT/COMPLIANCE Vice President THOMAS B. HEGGIE, III MORTGAGE Vice President MURRAY T. BALLANCE J. STATON MARTIN Banking Officer Vice President
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BANK DEPARTMENT MANAGERS CENTRAL PURCHASING DATA PROCESSING GENERAL ACCOUNTING DENISE L. GIBBS C. TODD MASON TINA L. DUNBAR DATA ENTRY FACILITIES MAINTENANCE ITEM PROCESSING JEAN M. RACZENSKI-CLARKE JERRY W. GIBBS DEVONDA HOWARD - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46 BRANCH OFFICERS (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CENTRAL REGION CRESWELL FAIRFIELD BETTY B. CABARRUS FAYE C. SADLER COLUMBIA Vice President Vice President DAVID W. NOELL Branch Manager Branch Manager Banking Officer Branch Manager ELOISE F. HASSELL SWAN QUARTER Branch Operations Manager FAYE C. SADLER Vice President DAWN L. HARRELL ENGELHARD Branch Manager Branch Operation Manager BEVERLY B. MEEKINS Banking Officer WASHINGTON Branch Manager JOHN E. WOJCIK Vice President LORI G. CAHOON Branch Manager Branch Operations Manager
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- EASTERN REGION HATTERAS NAGS HEAD R. DREW PULLEN RICHARD N. "SKIPPER" HINES, III T. OLIN DAVIS Vice President Vice President Vice President Branch Manager Branch Manager Eastern Region Manager CORA A. SIMMONS LINDA H. ALGOOD RICHARD N. "SKIPPER" HINES, III Assistant Vice President Assistant Vice President Vice President Loan Officer Loan Officer Business Development Officer MANTEO OCRACOKE T. OLIN DAVIS R. DREW PULLEN AVON Vice President Vice President K. NORMAN CAMPBELL Branch Manager Branch Manager Branch Manager SUSAN H. BERRY AGNES G. GARRISH BARCO/CURRITUCK Vice President Banking Officer LEWIS G. BARNETT Loan Officer Assistant Vice President Branch Manager ROY O. "CHIP" PHILLIPS JUDITH G. GARRISH Banking Officer Banking Officer Loan Officer Branch Operations Manager SOUTHERN SHORES THOMAS J. KERN Vice President Branch Manager - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WESTERN REGION GREENVILLE UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER MARY M. LAWRENCE EDWIN J. "JERRY" BRETT RED BANKS ROAD Banking Officer Vice President BARRY G. ALLEN Branch Manager Western Region Manager Assistant Vice President Branch Manager THOMAS W. PAULING Vice President Business Development Officer
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Excellence in Community Banking 47 (ECB BANCORP, INC. LOGO) ATTORNEYS AND CORRESPONDENT BANKS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ATTORNEYS DAVIS & DAVIS Attorneys at Law Swan Quarter, North Carolina WARD AND SMITH, P.A. Attorneys at Law New Bern, North Carolina CHARLES W. OGLETREE Attorney at Law Columbia, North Carolina CORRESPONDENT BANKS CENTURA BANK Rocky Mount, North Carolina FEDERAL HOME LOAN BANK OF ATLANTA Atlanta, Georgia FEDERAL RESERVE BANK OF RICHMOND Charlotte Branch Charlotte, North Carolina FEDERAL RESERVE BANK OF RICHMOND Richmond, Virginia FIRST-CITIZENS BANK & TRUST COMPANY Raleigh, North Carolina BANK OF AMERICA Charlotte, North Carolina SUNTRUST BANK Atlanta, Georgia WACHOVIA BANK & TRUST COMPANY Winston-Salem, North Carolina - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 48 EX-23 3 CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT The Board of Directors ECB Bancorp, Inc. We consent to incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement of ECB Bancorp, Inc. on Form S-8 relating to the ECB Bancorp, Inc. Omnibus Stock Ownership and Long-Term Incentive Plan, of our report dated February 4, 2000, relating to the consolidated balance sheets of ECB Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiary as of December 31, 1999 and 1998, and the related consolidated statements of income, shareholders' equity and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 1999, which report appears in the December 31, 1999 Annual Report on Form 10-KSB of ECB Bancorp, Inc. KPMG LLP Raleigh, North Carolina March 23, 2000 EX-27 4 FINANCIAL DATA SCHEDULE
9 YEAR DEC-31-1999 JAN-01-1999 DEC-31-1999 11,139 0 6,650 0 58,939 0 0 147,676 2,700 233,113 203,301 2,738 2,012 3,000 0 0 7,425 14,637 233,113 12,512 3,080 302 15,894 5,542 5,703 10,191 242 (27) 9,169 2,843 2,843 0 0 2,143 1.01 1.01 5.28 408 34 81 0 2,750 366 74 2,700 2,700 0 4
-----END PRIVACY-ENHANCED MESSAGE-----