SUMMARY OF RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS (Policies)	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
SUMMARY OF RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates In preparing the financial statements in conformity with GAAP, management has made estimates and assumptions based on available information. These estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expense during the reported periods. Actual results could differ from those estimated. Information available that could affect these judgements include, but are not limited to, changes in interest rates, changes in the performance of the economy, and changes in the financial condition of borrowers.
Cash Flows	Cash Flows Cash and cash equivalents are defined as cash on hand and amounts due from banks and money market funds. Net cash flows are reported for customer loan and deposit transactions, and other investments.
Securities	Securities Debt securities are classified as HTM and carried at amortized cost when management has the positive intent and ability to hold them to maturity. Debt securities are classified as AFS when they might be sold before maturity. Securities classified as AFS are carried at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses reported in other comprehensive income, net of tax. Equity securities with readily determinable fair values are carried at fair value, with changes in fair value reported in net income. Interest income includes amortization of purchase premiums or discounts. Premiums and discounts on securities are amortized using the level yield method without anticipating prepayments, except for MBS where prepayments are anticipated. Gains and losses on sales are recorded on the trade date and determined using the specific identification method. Gains and losses on sales of securities are recognized in the consolidated statements of operations upon sale. Effective January 1, 2023, the Company estimates and recognizes an ACL for HTM debt securities pursuant to ASC 326. The Company has a zero loss expectation for nearly all of its HTM securities portfolio, and has no ACL related to these securities. For the small portion of HTM securities portfolio that does not have a zero loss expectation, the ACL is based on the amortized cost of the securities, excluding interest receivable, and represents the portion of the amortized cost that the Company does not expect to collect over the life of the securities. The ACL is determined using average industry credit ratings and historical loss experience, and is initially recognized upon acquisition of the securities, and subsequently remeasured on a recurring basis. The Company evaluates AFS debt securities that experienced a decline in fair value below amortized cost for credit impairment. In performing an assessment of whether any decline in fair value is due to a credit loss, the Company considers the extent to which the fair value is less than the amortized cost, changes in credit ratings, any adverse economic conditions, as well as all relevant information at the individual security level, such as credit deterioration of the issuer, explicit or implicit guarantees by the federal government or the collateral underlying the security. If it is determined that the decline in fair value was due to credit, an ACL is recorded, limited to the amount the fair value is less than the amortized cost basis. The non-credit related decrease in the fair value, such as a decline due to changes in market interest rates, is recorded in other comprehensive income, net of tax. If the Company intends to sell the AFS security, or it is more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost, the Company will write down the security’s amortized cost basis to its fair value, write off any existing ACL, and recognize any incremental impairment in net income. Prior to the adoption of ASC 326 Management evaluated AFS and HTM debt securities for OTTI on at least a quarterly basis, and more frequently when economic or market conditions warranted such an evaluation. For securities in an unrealized loss position, management considered the extent and duration of the unrealized loss, and the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer. Management also assessed whether it intended to sell, or it was more likely than not that it would be required to sell, a security in an unrealized loss position before recovery of its amortized cost basis. If either of the criteria regarding intent or requirement to sell were met, the entire difference between amortized cost and fair value was recognized as an impairment through earnings. For securities that did not meet the aforementioned criteria, the amount of impairment would be split into two components as follows: (1) OTTI related to credit loss, which must be recognized in the statement of operations and (2) OTTI related to other factors, which is recognized in other comprehensive income. The credit loss is defined as the difference between the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected and the amortized cost basis.
Receivable from Global Payments Business, Net	Receivable from Global Payments Business, Net Receivables from the global payments business are short-term in nature and predominantly related to prepaid debit card programs.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition Any revenues from contracts with customers, which are not exempt from the accounting requirements under ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, are accounted for using the five-step method prescribed by the ASC. These revenue items are debit card income, service charges on deposit accounts and other service charges. In accordance with the ASC, revenue is recognized when a customer obtains control of promised services. The amount of revenue recognized reflects the consideration which the Company expects to be entitled to receive in exchange for these services. The Company applies the following five steps to properly recognize revenue: (i) identify the contract(s) with a customer, (ii) identify the performance obligations in the contract, (iii) determine the transaction price, (iv) allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract and (v) recognize revenue when (or as) the entity satisfies a performance obligation. The majority of the Company’s revenue is derived from interest income on loans, which is not subject to the ASC.
Licensing Fees	Licensing Fees Licensing fees on certain deposit accounts held by bankruptcy trustees are expensed as incurred. These accounts require the use of a software interface provided by a third party. Bankruptcy accounts subject to the licensing fees amounted to $312.2 million and $425.3 million at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Transfers of Financial Assets	Transfers of Financial Assets Transfers of financial assets are accounted for as sales when control over the assets has been relinquished. Control over transferred assets is deemed to be surrendered when the assets have been isolated from the Company, the transferee obtains the right (free of conditions that constrain it from taking advantage of that right) to pledge or exchange the transferred assets, and the Company does not maintain effective control over the transferred assets through an agreement to repurchase them before their maturity. Transfers of financial assets that do not meet the criteria to be accounted for as sales are recorded as secured borrowings.
Loans and Allowance for Loan Losses	Loans and Allowance for Loan Losses Loans receivable that management has the intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future or until maturity or payoff are reported at their outstanding principal balances, adjusted for any charge-offs, and any deferred fees or costs on originated loans. Loan origination fees, net of certain direct origination costs, are deferred and recognized in interest income using the level-yield method without anticipating prepayments. Interest income on loans is accrued and credited to operations based upon the principal amounts outstanding. Loans are normally placed on non-accrual if it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect the full payment of principal and interest when due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement, or the loan is past due for a period of 90 days or more, unless the obligation is well-secured and is in the process of collection. Any unpaid interest previously accrued on those loans is reversed from income. Interest payments received on such loans are applied as a reduction of the loan principal balance when the collectability of principal, wholly or partially, is in doubt. Interest payments received may be recognized as interest income when the principal balance of the non-accrual loan is deemed to be collectible. Interest income is recognized when all the principal and interest amounts contractually due are brought current and the loans are returned to accrual status. The following loan portfolio segments have been identified: CRE, Construction, Multi-Family, One-to Four-Family, C&I, and Consumer. The risk characteristics of each of the identified portfolio segments are as follows: Commercial Real Estate — CRE loans are secured by nonresidential real estate and generally have larger balances and involve a greater degree of risk than residential real estate loans. Repayment of CRE loans depends on the cash flow of the borrower and the net operating income of the property, the borrower’s profitability, and the value of the underlying property. Of primary concern in CRE lending is the borrower’s creditworthiness and the cash flows from the property. Payments on loans secured by income properties often depend on successful operation and management of the properties. As a result, repayment of such loans may be subject, to a greater extent than residential real estate loans, to adverse conditions in the real estate market or the economy. CRE is also subject to adverse market conditions that cause a decrease in market value or lease rates, obsolescence in location or function and market conditions associated with oversupply of units in a specific region. Construction — Construction financing is generally considered to involve a higher degree of risk of loss than long-term financing on improved, occupied real estate. Risk of loss on a construction loan depends largely upon the accuracy of the initial estimate of the property’s value at completion of construction and the estimated cost of construction. During the construction phase, a number of factors could result in delays and cost overruns. If the estimate of construction costs proves to be inaccurate, additional funds may be required to be advanced in excess of the amount originally committed to permit completion of the building. If the estimate of value proves to be inaccurate, the value of the building may be insufficient to assure full repayment if liquidation is required. If foreclosure is required on a building before or at completion due to a default, there can be no assurance that all of the unpaid balance of, and accrued interest on, the loan as well as related foreclosure and holding costs will be recovered. Multi-family — Multi-family real estate loans are secured by real estate of five or more units and generally have larger balances and involve a greater degree of risk than residential real estate loans. Repayment of multi-family real estate loans depends on the cash flow analysis of the property, occupancy rates, and unemployment rates, combined with the net operating income of the property, the borrower’s profitability, and the value of the underlying property. Payments on these loans depend on successful operation and management of the properties, and repayment of such loans may be subject to adverse conditions in the real estate market and/or the economy. One-to Four-Family — One-to four-family loans for primary residences are generally made on the basis of the borrower’s ability to make repayment from his or her employment income or other income, and which are secured by real property whose value tends to be more easily ascertainable. Repayment of one-to four-family loans is subject to adverse employment conditions in the local economy leading to increased default rates and decreased market values, including from oversupply in a geographic area. In general, these loans depend on the borrower’s continuing financial stability and, therefore, are likely to be adversely affected by various factors, including job loss, divorce, illness, or personal bankruptcy. Furthermore, the application of various federal and state laws, including federal and state bankruptcy and insolvency laws, may limit the amount that can be recovered on such loans. Commercial & Industrial — C&I loans are generally of higher risk and typically are made on the basis of the borrower’s ability to make repayment from the cash flows of the borrower’s business. As a result, the availability of funds for the repayment of commercial loans may depend substantially on the success of the business itself. Furthermore, any collateral securing such loans may depreciate over time, may be difficult to appraise, and may fluctuate in value. Consumer — Historically, the Company purchased loans made to licensed medical professionals on an unsecured basis. However, this practice was discontinued in 2019. Consumer loans are comprised of these loans and student loans, which were also purchased. As a result, repayment of such loans are subject, to a greater extent than loans secured by collateral, to the financial condition of the borrower. In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (“ASC 326”), which requires the measurement of all expected credit losses for financial assets held at amortized cost to be based on historical experience, current condition, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. The Company adopted this guidance effective January 1, 2023. See “NOTE 3 — SUMMARY OF RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS,” for a discussion on the adoption of this ASC. The ACL for loans is measured on the loan’s amortized cost basis, excluding interest receivable, and is initially recognized upon origination or purchase of the loans and subsequently remeasured on a recurring basis. The ACL is recognized as a contra-asset, and credit loss expense is recorded as a provision for credit losses in the consolidated statements of operation. Loan losses are charged-off against the ACL when management believes the loan is uncollectible. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the ACL. The Company does not recognize an ACL on accrued interest receivables, consistent with its policy to reverse interest income when interest is 90 days or more past due. The Company also records an ACL on unfunded loan commitments, which is based on the same assumptions as funded loans and also considers the probability of funding. The ACL is recognized as a liability, and credit loss expense is recorded as a provision for unfunded loan commitments within the provision for credit losses in the consolidated statements of operation. Upon funding of the loan, any related ACL previously recorded on the unfunded amount is reversed and an ACL is subsequently recognized on the outstanding loan. To calculate the ACL for loans and loan commitments collectively evaluated, the Company uses models developed by a third party. The CRE, C&I, and Consumer lifetime loss rate models calculate the expected losses over the life of the loan based on exposure at default loan attributes and reasonable, supportable economic forecasts. The exposure at default considers the current unpaid balance, prepayment assumptions, and expected utilization assumptions. Key assumptions used in the models include portfolio segmentation, prepayments, risk rating, a peer scalar, and the expected utilization of unfunded commitments among others. The portfolios are segmented by loan level attributes such as loan type, loan size, date of origination, and delinquency status to create homogenous loan pools. Pool level metrics are calculated, and loss rates are subsequently applied to the pools as the loans have similar characteristics. Prepayment assumptions, if applicable, are embedded within the models and are based on the same data used for model development and incorporate adjustments for reasonable and supportable forecasts. The models employ mean reversion techniques to predict credit losses for loans that are expected to mature beyond the forecast period. To account for economic uncertainty, the Company uses multiple economic scenarios provided by the model vendor in determining the ACL. The forecasts include various projections based on variables such as, Gross Domestic Product, interest rates, property price indices, and employment measures, among others. The forecasts are probability-weighted based on available information at the time the calculation is conducted. Scenario weightings and model parameters are reviewed for each calculation and are subject to change. The CRE and CRE lifetime loss rate models were developed using the historical loss experience of all banks in the model’s developmental dataset. Banks in the model’s developmental dataset may have different loss experiences due to geography and portfolio as well as operational and underwriting procedures that vary from those of the Company, and therefore, the Company calibrates expected losses using a peer scalar function provided by the models. The peer scalar was calculated by examining the loss rates of peer banks that have similar asset bases and that operate in similar markets as the Company and comparing these peer group loss rates to the model results. The Company also considers qualitative adjustments to expected credit loss estimates for information not already captured in the quantitative loss estimation models. Qualitative factor adjustments may increase or decrease management’s estimate of expected credit losses. Qualitative loss factors are based on the Company’s judgment of market, industry or business specific data, changes in loan composition, performance trends, regulatory changes, uncertainty of macroeconomic forecasts, and other asset specific risk characteristics. When loans do not share risk characteristics with other financial assets they are evaluated individually. Management applies its normal loan review procedures in making these judgments. Individually evaluated loans consist of nonaccrual loans and loans that have been modified due to financial difficulty. In determining the ACL, the Company generally applies a discounted cash flow method for instruments that are individually assessed. For collateral dependent financial assets where the Company has determined that foreclosure of the collateral is probable and where the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty, the ACL is measured based on the difference between the fair value of the collateral and the amortized cost basis of the asset as of the measurement date. Fair value is generally calculated based on the value of the underlying collateral less an appraisal discount and the estimated cost to sell. Prior to the adoption of ASC 326 Prior to the adoption of ASC 326, the ALLL was maintained at an amount management deemed adequate to cover probable incurred credit losses (the “incurred loss method”). The allowance for non-impaired loans was based on historical loss experience adjusted for current factors. The historical loss experience was determined by portfolio segment and was based on the actual loss history experienced by the Company over a rolling two-year period. This actual loss experience was supplemented with other qualitative and economic factors based on the risks present for each portfolio segment. These qualitative and economic factors included economic and business conditions, the nature and volume of the portfolio, and lending terms and volume and severity of past due loans. A loan was considered to be impaired when it was probable that the Company would be unable to collect all principal and interest amounts according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Management applied its normal loan review procedures in making these judgments. Impaired loans include individually classified non-accrual loans and TDRs. Impairment was determined based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate. For loans that were collateral dependent, the fair value of the collateral was used to determine the fair value of the loan. The fair value of the collateral was determined based on recent appraised values. The fair value of the collateral or present value of expected cash flows was compared to the carrying value to determine if any write-down or specific loan loss allowance allocation was required. Loan Modifications In March 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-02, Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (ASC 326): Troubled Debt Restructurings and Vintage Disclosures. ASU 2022-02 eliminated the accounting guidance for TDRs by creditors while enhancing disclosure requirements for certain loan refinancings and restructurings by creditors when a borrower is experiencing financial difficulty. The Company adopted ASU 2022-02 effective January 1, 2023 and the impact was immaterial. See “NOTE 3 — SUMMARY OF RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS,” for a discussion on the adoption of this ASC. Prior to the adoption of ASU 2022-02, when a loan was modified and concessions were made to the original contractual terms, such as reductions in interest rate or deferral of interest or principal payments, due to the borrower’s financial condition, the modification was known as a TDR. TDRs were separately identified for impairment disclosures and were measured at the present value of estimated future cash flows using the loan’s effective rate at inception.
Goodwill	Goodwill Goodwill and certain other intangibles generally arise from business combinations accounted for under the purchase method of accounting. Goodwill and other intangibles deemed to have indefinite lives generated from business combinations are not subject to amortization and are instead tested for impairment not less than annually or more frequently if events and circumstances exist that indicate that a goodwill impairment test should be performed. The Company changed its annual goodwill impairment testing date from December 31 to October 1 to better align with the timing of our annual planning process. Accordingly, management determined that the change in accounting principle is preferable under the circumstance. This change has been applied starting with the October 1, 2022 impairment test. This change was not material to our consolidated financial statements as it did not delay, accelerate, or avoid any potential goodwill impairment charges. The goodwill of $9.7 million is associated with a purchase of the prepaid third-party debit card business. Based on the Company’s annual impairment assessments no impairment of goodwill existed as of October 1, 2023 and 2022.
Stock-Based Compensation	Stock-Based Compensation Compensation cost is recognized for stock options, restricted stock awards and restricted stock units, based on the fair value of these awards at the date of grant. A Black-Scholes model is utilized to estimate the fair value of options. The market price of the Company’s common stock at the date of grant is used for restricted stock awards and restricted stock units. Compensation cost is recognized over the required service period, generally defined as the vesting period. For awards with time-based vesting, compensation cost is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for the entire award. The Company also awards PRSUs to certain employees. The PRSUs are classified as either equity or a liability, depending on certain criteria provided in ASC 718, Stock Based Compensation. This classification affects whether the measurement of fair value is fixed (i.e., measured only once) on the grant date or whether fair value will be remeasured each reporting period until settled. On the grant date, the estimate of equity-classified awards’ fair value would be fixed, the cumulative amount of previously recognized compensation cost would be adjusted, and the Company would no longer have to remeasure the award. If the award is liability-classified, the awards would continue to be marked to fair value each reporting period until settlement. The Company recognizes compensation cost for awards with performance conditions if and when it concludes that it is probable that the performance conditions will be achieved. The Company assesses the probability of vesting (i.e., that the performance conditions will be met) at each reporting period and, if required, adjusts compensation cost based on its probability assessment.
Concentrations of Credit Risk	Concentrations of Credit Risk Financial instruments, which potentially subject the Company to concentration of credit risk, consist primarily of temporary cash investments including due from banks, interest-bearing deposits with banks and real estate loans receivable. A significant portion of real estate loans are collateralized by property in the New York metropolitan area. The ultimate collectability of these loans may be susceptible to changes in the real estate market in this area.
Leases	Leases As of December 31, 2022, the Company follows ASC 842, Leases. The Company’s real estate leases are recognized as operating leases. The related ROU lease assets and liabilities are recognized to reflect our right to use the underlying assets and contractual obligations associated with future rent payments. ROU assets are included in other assets and lease liabilities are included in other liabilities on the consolidated statements of financial condition. Operating lease expense for lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. On a periodic basis, ROU assets are assessed for impairment and an impairment loss would be recognized if the carrying amount of the ROU asset is not recoverable. See “NOTE 3 — SUMMARY OF RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS,” for a discussion on the adoption of this ASC. Prior to 2022, operating leases were not recognized on the Company’s consolidated statements of financial condition. Operating lease expense for lease payments were recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations.
Premises and Equipment	Premises and Equipment Premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation is computed over the estimated useful lives of the assets by the straight-line method with useful lives ranging from three to thirty years. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of the terms of the respective leases or the estimated lives of the improvements.
Other Investments	Other Investments Other investments include FRB and FHLB stock. The Company is a member of the FRB and the FHLB systems. FHLB members are required to own membership stock and purchase activity-based stock that is based on the level of outstanding borrowings. FRB and FHLB stock are carried at cost, classified as a restricted security, and periodically evaluated for impairment based on ultimate recovery of par value. Both cash and stock dividends are reported as income. The Company held FRB and FHLB stock of $11.4 million and $25.6 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2023. As of December 31, 2022, the Company held FRB and FHLB stock of $11.4 million and $9.2 million, respectively. Other investments at December 31, 2023 and 2022 also includes a $1.5 million and $1.0 million investment in The Disability Opportunity Fund, respectively, which is an equity equivalent investment in a community development financial institution.
Derivatives	Derivatives On occasion, the Company enters into derivative contracts as a part of its asset liability management strategy to help manage its interest rate risk position. The derivatives are designated as cash flow hedges. A cash flow hedge is a hedge of a forecasted transaction or the variability of cash flows to be received or paid related to a recognized asset or liability. For a cash flow hedge, the gain or loss on the derivative is reported in accumulated other comprehensive income and is reclassified into earnings in the same periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. Changes in the fair value of the derivative that are not highly effective in hedging the changes in expected cash flows of the hedged item are recognized immediately in current earnings. The amounts are reclassified to earnings in the same income statement line item that is used to present the earnings effect of the hedged item when the hedged item affects earnings. The Company formally documents the relationship between derivatives and hedged items, as well as the risk management objective and the strategy for undertaking hedged transactions at the inception of the hedging relationship. The documentation includes linking the cash flow hedges to specific assets and liabilities on the balance sheet or to specific forecasted transactions or group of forecasted transactions. The Company also formally assesses, both at the hedge’s inception and on an ongoing basis, whether the derivative instruments that are used are highly effective in offsetting changes in cash flows of the hedged items. The Company discontinues hedge accounting when it determines that the derivative is no longer effective in offsetting changes in the cash flows of the hedged item, the derivative is settled or terminates, a hedged forecasted transaction is no longer probable, or treatment of the derivative as a hedge is no longer appropriate or intended. When a cash flow hedge is discontinued but the hedged cash flows or forecasted transactions are still expected to occur, gains or losses that were in accumulated other comprehensive income are amortized into earnings over the same periods in which the hedged transactions will affect earnings. If the forecasted transaction is deemed probable to not occur, the derivative gain or loss reported in accumulated other comprehensive income is reclassified into current earnings. The Company also periodically enters into certain commercial loan interest rate swap agreements to provide commercial loan customers the ability to convert loans from variable to fixed interest rates. These derivative instruments are marked to market in earnings with changes in fair value reported as non-interest income.
Comprehensive Income	Comprehensive Income Comprehensive income consists of net income and other comprehensive income (loss). Other comprehensive income (loss) includes unrealized gains and losses and reclassification to earnings related to AFS securities and unrealized gain (loss) related to the cash flow hedges.
Restrictions on Cash	Restrictions on Cash At December 31, 2023 and 2022, Overnight deposits included $236.4 million and $226.7 million, respectively, of cash on hand or on deposit with the FRB to meet regulatory reserve and clearing requirements. Also included in cash was $11.5 million and $13.3 million of cash held in escrow and collateral accounts for third-party debit card program managers at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Additionally, there was $726,000 and $693,000 of cash pledged for a related collateral account at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Earnings per Common Share	Earnings per Common Share Basic earnings per common share is computed by dividing net income available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the applicable period, including outstanding participating securities. Diluted earnings per common share is computed using the weighted average number of shares determined for the basic computation plus the dilutive effect of potential common shares issuable under certain stock compensation plans. Unvested share-based awards and preferred shares that contain non-forfeitable rights to dividends or dividend equivalents (whether paid or unpaid) are participating securities and are included in the computation of earnings per share pursuant to the two-class method.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes Income tax expense is the total of the current year income tax due or refundable and the change in deferred tax assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the difference between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities as measured by the enacted tax rates which will be in effect when these differences reverse. A valuation allowance is recorded, as necessary, to reduce deferred tax assets to an estimated amount expected to be realized. A tax position is recognized as a benefit only if it is “more likely than not” that the tax position would be sustained in a tax examination, with a tax examination being presumed to occur. The amount recognized is the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized on examination. For tax positions not meeting the “more likely than not” test, no tax benefit is recorded. The Company recognizes interest and/or penalties related to income tax matters in income tax expense.
Loan Commitments and Related Financial Instruments	Loan Commitments and Related Financial Instruments Financial instruments include off-balance sheet credit instruments, such as commitments to make loans and commercial letters of credit, issued to meet customer financing needs. The face amount for these items represents the exposure to loss, before considering customer collateral or ability to repay. Such financial instruments are recorded when they are funded.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair values of financial instruments are estimated using relevant market information and other assumptions, as more fully disclosed in a separate note. Fair value estimates involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment regarding interest rates, credit risk, prepayments, and other factors, especially in the absence of liquid markets for certain items. Changes in assumptions or in market conditions could significantly affect the estimates.
Loss Contingencies	Loss Contingencies Loss contingencies, including claims and legal actions arising in the ordinary course of business, are recorded as liabilities when the likelihood of loss is probable and an amount or range of loss can be reasonably estimated.
Reclassifications	Reclassifications Some items in the prior year financial statements may have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation. Reclassification had no effect on prior year net income or stockholders’ equity.
Operating Segment	Operating Segment While department heads monitor the revenue streams of the various products and services, operations are managed and financial performance is evaluated on a Company-wide basis. Accordingly, all of the financial service operations are considered by management to be aggregated in one reportable operating segment.

SUMMARY OF RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2023

SUMMARY OF RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

In preparing the financial statements in conformity with GAAP, management has made estimates and assumptions based on available information. These estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expense during the reported periods. Actual results could differ from those estimated. Information available that could affect these judgements include, but are not limited to, changes in interest rates, changes in the performance of the economy, and changes in the financial condition of borrowers.

Cash Flows

Cash and cash equivalents are defined as cash on hand and amounts due from banks and money market funds. Net cash flows are reported for customer loan and deposit transactions, and other investments.

Securities

Debt securities are classified as HTM and carried at amortized cost when management has the positive intent and ability to hold them to maturity. Debt securities are classified as AFS when they might be sold before maturity. Securities classified as AFS are carried at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses reported in other comprehensive income, net of tax. Equity securities with readily determinable fair values are carried at fair value, with changes in fair value reported in net income.

Interest income includes amortization of purchase premiums or discounts. Premiums and discounts on securities are amortized using the level yield method without anticipating prepayments, except for MBS where prepayments are anticipated. Gains and losses on sales are recorded on the trade date and determined using the specific identification method. Gains and losses on sales of securities are recognized in the consolidated statements of operations upon sale.

Effective January 1, 2023, the Company estimates and recognizes an ACL for HTM debt securities pursuant to ASC 326. The Company has a zero loss expectation for nearly all of its HTM securities portfolio, and has no ACL related to these securities. For the small portion of HTM securities portfolio that does not have a zero loss expectation, the ACL is based on the amortized cost of the securities, excluding interest receivable, and represents the portion of the amortized cost that the Company does not expect to collect over the life of the securities. The ACL is determined using average industry credit ratings and historical loss experience, and is initially recognized upon acquisition of the securities, and subsequently remeasured on a recurring basis.

The Company evaluates AFS debt securities that experienced a decline in fair value below amortized cost for credit impairment. In performing an assessment of whether any decline in fair value is due to a credit loss, the Company considers the extent to which the fair value is less than the amortized cost, changes in credit ratings, any adverse economic conditions, as well as all relevant information at the individual security level, such as credit deterioration of the issuer, explicit or implicit guarantees by the federal government or the collateral underlying the security. If it is determined that the decline in fair value was due to credit, an ACL is recorded, limited to the amount the fair value is less than the amortized cost basis. The non-credit related decrease in the fair value, such as a decline due to changes in market interest rates, is recorded in other comprehensive income, net of tax. If the Company intends to sell the AFS security, or it is more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost, the Company will write down the security’s amortized cost basis to its fair value, write off any existing ACL, and recognize any incremental impairment in net income.

Prior to the adoption of ASC 326

Management evaluated AFS and HTM debt securities for OTTI on at least a quarterly basis, and more frequently when economic or market conditions warranted such an evaluation. For securities in an unrealized loss position, management considered the extent and duration of the unrealized loss, and the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer. Management also assessed whether it intended to sell, or it was more likely than not that it would be required to sell, a security in an unrealized loss position before recovery of its amortized cost basis. If either of the criteria regarding intent or requirement to sell were met, the entire difference between amortized cost and fair value was recognized as an impairment through earnings. For securities that did not meet the aforementioned criteria, the amount of impairment would be split into two components as follows: (1) OTTI related to credit loss, which must be recognized in the statement of operations and (2) OTTI related to other factors, which is recognized in other comprehensive income. The credit loss is defined as the difference between the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected and the amortized cost basis.

Receivable from Global Payments Business, Net

Receivables from the global payments business are short-term in nature and predominantly related to prepaid debit card programs.

Revenue Recognition

Any revenues from contracts with customers, which are not exempt from the accounting requirements under ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, are accounted for using the five-step method prescribed by the ASC. These revenue items are debit card income, service charges on deposit accounts and other service charges. In accordance with the ASC, revenue is recognized when a customer obtains control of promised services. The amount of revenue recognized reflects the consideration which the Company expects to be entitled to receive in exchange for these services. The Company applies the following five steps to properly recognize revenue: (i) identify the contract(s) with a customer, (ii) identify the performance obligations in the contract, (iii) determine the transaction price, (iv) allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract and (v) recognize revenue when (or as) the entity satisfies a performance obligation. The majority of the Company’s revenue is derived from interest income on loans, which is not subject to the ASC.

Licensing Fees

Licensing fees on certain deposit accounts held by bankruptcy trustees are expensed as incurred. These accounts require the use of a software interface provided by a third party. Bankruptcy accounts subject to the licensing fees amounted to $312.2 million and $425.3 million at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Transfers of Financial Assets

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

Loans and Allowance for Loan Losses

Loans receivable that management has the intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future or until maturity or payoff are reported at their outstanding principal balances, adjusted for any charge-offs, and any deferred fees or costs on originated loans. Loan origination fees, net of certain direct origination costs, are deferred and recognized in interest income using the level-yield method without anticipating prepayments.

Interest income on loans is accrued and credited to operations based upon the principal amounts outstanding. Loans are normally placed on non-accrual if it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect the full payment of principal and interest when due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement, or the loan is past due for a period of 90 days or more, unless the obligation is well-secured and is in the process of collection. Any unpaid interest previously accrued on those loans is reversed from income. Interest payments received on such loans are applied as a reduction of the loan principal balance when the collectability of principal, wholly or partially, is in doubt. Interest payments received may be recognized as interest income when the principal balance of the non-accrual loan is deemed to be collectible. Interest income is recognized when all the principal and interest amounts contractually due are brought current and the loans are returned to accrual status.

The following loan portfolio segments have been identified: CRE, Construction, Multi-Family, One-to Four-Family, C&I, and Consumer.

The risk characteristics of each of the identified portfolio segments are as follows:

Commercial Real Estate — CRE loans are secured by nonresidential real estate and generally have larger balances and involve a greater degree of risk than residential real estate loans. Repayment of CRE loans depends on the cash flow of the borrower and the net operating income of the property, the borrower’s profitability, and the value of the underlying property. Of primary concern in CRE lending is the borrower’s creditworthiness and the cash flows from the property. Payments on loans secured by income properties often depend on successful operation and management of the properties. As a result, repayment of such loans may be subject, to a greater extent than residential real estate loans, to adverse conditions in the real estate market or the economy. CRE is also subject to adverse market conditions that cause a decrease in market value or lease rates, obsolescence in location or function and market conditions associated with oversupply of units in a specific region.

Construction — Construction financing is generally considered to involve a higher degree of risk of loss than long-term financing on improved, occupied real estate. Risk of loss on a construction loan depends largely upon the accuracy of the initial estimate of the property’s value at completion of construction and the estimated cost of construction. During the construction phase, a number of factors could result in delays and cost overruns. If the estimate of construction costs proves to be inaccurate, additional funds may be required to be advanced in excess of the amount originally committed to permit completion of the building.

If the estimate of value proves to be inaccurate, the value of the building may be insufficient to assure full repayment if liquidation is required. If foreclosure is required on a building before or at completion due to a default, there can be no assurance that all of the unpaid balance of, and accrued interest on, the loan as well as related foreclosure and holding costs will be recovered.

Multi-family — Multi-family real estate loans are secured by real estate of five or more units and generally have larger balances and involve a greater degree of risk than residential real estate loans. Repayment of multi-family real estate loans depends on the cash flow analysis of the property, occupancy rates, and unemployment rates, combined with the net operating income of the property, the borrower’s profitability, and the value of the underlying property. Payments on these loans depend on successful operation and management of the properties, and repayment of such loans may be subject to adverse conditions in the real estate market and/or the economy.

One-to Four-Family — One-to four-family loans for primary residences are generally made on the basis of the borrower’s ability to make repayment from his or her employment income or other income, and which are secured by real property whose value tends to be more easily ascertainable. Repayment of one-to four-family loans is subject to adverse employment conditions in the local economy leading to increased default rates and decreased market values, including from oversupply in a geographic area. In general, these loans depend on the borrower’s continuing financial stability and, therefore, are likely to be adversely affected by various factors, including job loss, divorce, illness, or personal bankruptcy. Furthermore, the application of various federal and state laws, including federal and state bankruptcy and insolvency laws, may limit the amount that can be recovered on such loans.

Commercial & Industrial — C&I loans are generally of higher risk and typically are made on the basis of the borrower’s ability to make repayment from the cash flows of the borrower’s business. As a result, the availability of funds for the repayment of commercial loans may depend substantially on the success of the business itself. Furthermore, any collateral securing such loans may depreciate over time, may be difficult to appraise, and may fluctuate in value.

Consumer — Historically, the Company purchased loans made to licensed medical professionals on an unsecured basis. However, this practice was discontinued in 2019. Consumer loans are comprised of these loans and student loans, which were also purchased. As a result, repayment of such loans are subject, to a greater extent than loans secured by collateral, to the financial condition of the borrower.

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (“ASC 326”), which requires the measurement of all expected credit losses for financial assets held at amortized cost to be based on historical experience, current condition, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. The Company adopted this guidance effective January 1, 2023. See “NOTE 3 — SUMMARY OF RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS,” for a discussion on the adoption of this ASC.

The ACL for loans is measured on the loan’s amortized cost basis, excluding interest receivable, and is initially recognized upon origination or purchase of the loans and subsequently remeasured on a recurring basis. The ACL is recognized as a contra-asset, and credit loss expense is recorded as a provision for credit losses in the consolidated statements of operation. Loan losses are charged-off against the ACL when management believes the loan is uncollectible. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the ACL. The Company does not recognize an ACL on accrued interest receivables, consistent with its policy to reverse interest income when interest is 90 days or more past due.

The Company also records an ACL on unfunded loan commitments, which is based on the same assumptions as funded loans and also considers the probability of funding. The ACL is recognized as a liability, and credit loss expense is recorded as a provision for unfunded loan commitments within the provision for credit losses in the consolidated statements of operation. Upon funding of the loan, any related ACL previously recorded on the unfunded amount is reversed and an ACL is subsequently recognized on the outstanding loan.

To calculate the ACL for loans and loan commitments collectively evaluated, the Company uses models developed by a third party. The CRE, C&I, and Consumer lifetime loss rate models calculate the expected losses over the life of the loan based on exposure at default loan attributes and reasonable, supportable economic forecasts. The exposure at default considers the current unpaid balance, prepayment assumptions, and expected utilization assumptions.

Key assumptions used in the models include portfolio segmentation, prepayments, risk rating, a peer scalar, and the expected utilization of unfunded commitments among others. The portfolios are segmented by loan level attributes such as loan type, loan size, date of origination, and delinquency status to create homogenous loan pools. Pool level metrics are calculated, and loss rates are subsequently applied to the pools as the loans have similar characteristics. Prepayment assumptions, if applicable, are embedded within the models and are based on the same data used for model development and incorporate adjustments for reasonable and supportable forecasts. The models employ mean reversion techniques to predict credit losses for loans that are expected to mature beyond the forecast period.

To account for economic uncertainty, the Company uses multiple economic scenarios provided by the model vendor in determining the ACL. The forecasts include various projections based on variables such as, Gross Domestic Product, interest rates, property price indices, and employment measures, among others. The forecasts are probability-weighted based on available information at the time the calculation is conducted. Scenario weightings and model parameters are reviewed for each calculation and are subject to change.

The CRE and CRE lifetime loss rate models were developed using the historical loss experience of all banks in the model’s developmental dataset. Banks in the model’s developmental dataset may have different loss experiences due to geography and portfolio as well as operational and underwriting procedures that vary from those of the Company, and therefore, the Company calibrates expected losses using a peer scalar function provided by the models. The peer scalar was calculated by examining the loss rates of peer banks that have similar asset bases and that operate in similar markets as the Company and comparing these peer group loss rates to the model results.

The Company also considers qualitative adjustments to expected credit loss estimates for information not already captured in the quantitative loss estimation models. Qualitative factor adjustments may increase or decrease management’s estimate of expected credit losses. Qualitative loss factors are based on the Company’s judgment of market, industry or business specific data, changes in loan composition, performance trends, regulatory changes, uncertainty of macroeconomic forecasts, and other asset specific risk characteristics.

When loans do not share risk characteristics with other financial assets they are evaluated individually. Management applies its normal loan review procedures in making these judgments. Individually evaluated loans consist of nonaccrual loans and loans that have been modified due to financial difficulty. In determining the ACL, the Company generally applies a discounted cash flow method for instruments that are individually assessed. For collateral dependent financial assets where the Company has determined that foreclosure of the collateral is probable and where the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty, the ACL is measured based on the difference between the fair value of the collateral and the amortized cost basis of the asset as of the measurement date. Fair value is generally calculated based on the value of the underlying collateral less an appraisal discount and the estimated cost to sell.

Prior to the adoption of ASC 326

Prior to the adoption of ASC 326, the ALLL was maintained at an amount management deemed adequate to cover probable incurred credit losses (the “incurred loss method”). The allowance for non-impaired loans was based on historical loss experience adjusted for current factors. The historical loss experience was determined by portfolio segment and was based on the actual loss history experienced by the Company over a rolling two-year period. This actual loss experience was supplemented with other qualitative and economic factors based on the risks present for each portfolio segment. These qualitative and economic factors included economic and business conditions, the nature and volume of the portfolio, and lending terms and volume and severity of past due loans.

A loan was considered to be impaired when it was probable that the Company would be unable to collect all principal and interest amounts according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Management applied its normal loan review procedures in making these judgments. Impaired loans include individually classified non-accrual loans and TDRs. Impairment was determined based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate. For loans that were collateral dependent, the fair value of the collateral was used to determine the fair value of the loan. The fair value of the collateral was determined based on recent appraised values. The fair value of the collateral or present value of expected cash flows was compared to the carrying value to determine if any write-down or specific loan loss allowance allocation was required.

Loan Modifications

In March 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-02, Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (ASC 326): Troubled Debt Restructurings and Vintage Disclosures. ASU 2022-02 eliminated the accounting guidance for TDRs by creditors while enhancing disclosure requirements for certain loan refinancings and restructurings by creditors when a borrower is experiencing financial difficulty. The Company adopted ASU 2022-02 effective January 1, 2023 and the impact was immaterial. See “NOTE 3 — SUMMARY OF RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS,” for a discussion on the adoption of this ASC.

Prior to the adoption of ASU 2022-02, when a loan was modified and concessions were made to the original contractual terms, such as reductions in interest rate or deferral of interest or principal payments, due to the borrower’s financial condition, the modification was known as a TDR. TDRs were separately identified for impairment disclosures and were measured at the present value of estimated future cash flows using the loan’s effective rate at inception.

Goodwill

Goodwill and certain other intangibles generally arise from business combinations accounted for under the purchase method of accounting. Goodwill and other intangibles deemed to have indefinite lives generated from business combinations are not subject to amortization and are instead tested for impairment not less than annually or more frequently if events and circumstances exist that indicate that a goodwill impairment test should be performed. The Company changed its annual goodwill impairment testing date from December 31 to October 1 to better align with the timing of our annual planning process. Accordingly, management determined that the change in accounting principle is preferable under the circumstance. This change has been applied starting with the October 1, 2022 impairment test. This change was not material to our consolidated financial statements as it did not delay, accelerate, or avoid any potential goodwill impairment charges.

The goodwill of $9.7 million is associated with a purchase of the prepaid third-party debit card business. Based on the Company’s annual impairment assessments no impairment of goodwill existed as of October 1, 2023 and 2022.

Stock-Based Compensation

Compensation cost is recognized for stock options, restricted stock awards and restricted stock units, based on the fair value of these awards at the date of grant. A Black-Scholes model is utilized to estimate the fair value of options. The market price of the Company’s common stock at the date of grant is used for restricted stock awards and restricted stock units. Compensation cost is recognized over the required service period, generally defined as the vesting period. For awards with time-based vesting, compensation cost is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for the entire award.

The Company also awards PRSUs to certain employees. The PRSUs are classified as either equity or a liability, depending on certain criteria provided in ASC 718, Stock Based Compensation. This classification affects whether the measurement of fair value is fixed (i.e., measured only once) on the grant date or whether fair value will be remeasured each reporting period until settled. On the grant date, the estimate of equity-classified awards’ fair value would be fixed, the cumulative amount of previously recognized compensation cost would be adjusted, and the Company would no longer have to remeasure the award. If the award is liability-classified, the awards would continue to be marked to fair value each reporting period until settlement. The Company recognizes compensation cost for awards with performance conditions if and when it concludes that it is probable that the performance conditions will be achieved. The Company assesses the probability of vesting (i.e., that the performance conditions will be met) at each reporting period and, if required, adjusts compensation cost based on its probability assessment.

Concentrations of Credit Risk

Financial instruments, which potentially subject the Company to concentration of credit risk, consist primarily of temporary cash investments including due from banks, interest-bearing deposits with banks and real estate loans receivable. A significant portion of real estate loans are collateralized by property in the New York metropolitan area. The ultimate collectability of these loans may be susceptible to changes in the real estate market in this area.

Leases

As of December 31, 2022, the Company follows ASC 842, Leases. The Company’s real estate leases are recognized as operating leases. The related ROU lease assets and liabilities are recognized to reflect our right to use the underlying assets and contractual obligations associated with future rent payments. ROU assets are included in other assets and lease liabilities are included in other liabilities on the consolidated statements of financial condition. Operating lease expense for lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. On a periodic basis, ROU assets are assessed

for impairment and an impairment loss would be recognized if the carrying amount of the ROU asset is not recoverable. See “NOTE 3 — SUMMARY OF RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS,” for a discussion on the adoption of this ASC.

Prior to 2022, operating leases were not recognized on the Company’s consolidated statements of financial condition. Operating lease expense for lease payments were recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations.

Premises and Equipment

Premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation is computed over the estimated useful lives of the assets by the straight-line method with useful lives ranging from three to thirty years. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of the terms of the respective leases or the estimated lives of the improvements.

Other Investments

Other investments include FRB and FHLB stock. The Company is a member of the FRB and the FHLB systems. FHLB members are required to own membership stock and purchase activity-based stock that is based on the level of outstanding borrowings. FRB and FHLB stock are carried at cost, classified as a restricted security, and periodically evaluated for impairment based on ultimate recovery of par value. Both cash and stock dividends are reported as income. The Company held FRB and FHLB stock of $11.4 million and $25.6 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2023. As of December 31, 2022, the Company held FRB and FHLB stock of $11.4 million and $9.2 million, respectively. Other investments at December 31, 2023 and 2022 also includes a $1.5 million and $1.0 million investment in The Disability Opportunity Fund, respectively, which is an equity equivalent investment in a community development financial institution.

Derivatives

On occasion, the Company enters into derivative contracts as a part of its asset liability management strategy to help manage its interest rate risk position. The derivatives are designated as cash flow hedges. A cash flow hedge is a hedge of a forecasted transaction or the variability of cash flows to be received or paid related to a recognized asset or liability. For a cash flow hedge, the gain or loss on the derivative is reported in accumulated other comprehensive income and is reclassified into earnings in the same periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. Changes in the fair value of the derivative that are not highly effective in hedging the changes in expected cash flows of the hedged item are recognized immediately in current earnings. The amounts are reclassified to earnings in the same income statement line item that is used to present the earnings effect of the hedged item when the hedged item affects earnings.

The Company formally documents the relationship between derivatives and hedged items, as well as the risk management objective and the strategy for undertaking hedged transactions at the inception of the hedging relationship. The documentation includes linking the cash flow hedges to specific assets and liabilities on the balance sheet or to specific forecasted transactions or group of forecasted transactions. The Company also formally assesses, both at the hedge’s inception and on an ongoing basis, whether the derivative instruments that are used are highly effective in offsetting changes in cash flows of the hedged items. The Company discontinues hedge accounting when it determines that the derivative is no longer effective in offsetting changes in the cash flows of the hedged item, the derivative is settled or terminates, a hedged forecasted transaction is no longer probable, or treatment of the derivative as a hedge is no longer appropriate or intended.

When a cash flow hedge is discontinued but the hedged cash flows or forecasted transactions are still expected to occur, gains or losses that were in accumulated other comprehensive income are amortized into earnings over the same periods in which the hedged transactions will affect earnings. If the forecasted transaction is deemed probable to not occur, the derivative gain or loss reported in accumulated other comprehensive income is reclassified into current earnings.

The Company also periodically enters into certain commercial loan interest rate swap agreements to provide commercial loan customers the ability to convert loans from variable to fixed interest rates. These derivative instruments are marked to market in earnings with changes in fair value reported as non-interest income.

Comprehensive Income

Comprehensive income consists of net income and other comprehensive income (loss). Other comprehensive income (loss) includes unrealized gains and losses and reclassification to earnings related to AFS securities and unrealized gain (loss) related to the cash flow hedges.

Restrictions on Cash

At December 31, 2023 and 2022, Overnight deposits included $236.4 million and $226.7 million, respectively, of cash on hand or on deposit with the FRB to meet regulatory reserve and clearing requirements. Also included in cash was $11.5 million and $13.3 million of cash held in escrow and collateral accounts for third-party debit card program managers at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Additionally, there was $726,000 and $693,000 of cash pledged for a related collateral account at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Earnings per Common Share

Basic earnings per common share is computed by dividing net income available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the applicable period, including outstanding participating securities. Diluted earnings per common share is computed using the weighted average number of shares determined for the basic computation plus the dilutive effect of potential common shares issuable under certain stock compensation plans. Unvested share-based awards and preferred shares that contain non-forfeitable rights to dividends or dividend equivalents (whether paid or unpaid) are participating securities and are included in the computation of earnings per share pursuant to the two-class method.

Income Taxes

Income tax expense is the total of the current year income tax due or refundable and the change in deferred tax assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the difference between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities as measured by the enacted tax rates which will be in effect when these differences reverse. A valuation allowance is recorded, as necessary, to reduce deferred tax assets to an estimated amount expected to be realized.

A tax position is recognized as a benefit only if it is “more likely than not” that the tax position would be sustained in a tax examination, with a tax examination being presumed to occur. The amount recognized is the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized on examination. For tax positions not meeting the “more likely than not” test, no tax benefit is recorded.

The Company recognizes interest and/or penalties related to income tax matters in income tax expense.

Loan Commitments and Related Financial Instruments

Financial instruments include off-balance sheet credit instruments, such as commitments to make loans and commercial letters of credit, issued to meet customer financing needs. The face amount for these items represents the exposure to loss, before considering customer collateral or ability to repay. Such financial instruments are recorded when they are funded.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

Fair values of financial instruments are estimated using relevant market information and other assumptions, as more fully disclosed in a separate note. Fair value estimates involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment regarding interest rates, credit risk, prepayments, and other factors, especially in the absence of liquid markets for certain items. Changes in assumptions or in market conditions could significantly affect the estimates.

Loss Contingencies

Loss contingencies, including claims and legal actions arising in the ordinary course of business, are recorded as liabilities when the likelihood of loss is probable and an amount or range of loss can be reasonably estimated.

Reclassifications

Some items in the prior year financial statements may have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation. Reclassification had no effect on prior year net income or stockholders’ equity.

Operating Segment

While department heads monitor the revenue streams of the various products and services, operations are managed and financial performance is evaluated on a Company-wide basis. Accordingly, all of the financial service operations are considered by management to be aggregated in one reportable operating segment.