EX-99.3 11 d183032dex99_3.htm EX-99.3 HTML

Exhibit 99.3

PRO FORMA VALUATION REPORT

SECOND-STEP CONVERSION

Ponce Financial Group, Inc. | Bronx, New York

PROPOSED HOLDING COMPANY FOR:

Ponce Bank | Bronx, New York

Dated as of June 1, 2021

 

LOGO

1311-A Dolley Madison Boulevard

Suite 2A

McLean, Virginia 22101

703.528.1700

rpfinancial.com


LOGO

June 1, 2021                                                         

Boards of Directors

Ponce Bank Mutual Holding Company

PDL Community Bancorp

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Ponce Bank

2244 Westchester Avenue

Bronx, New York 10462

Members of the Boards of Directors:

At your request, we have completed and hereby provide an independent appraisal (“Appraisal”) of the estimated pro forma market value of the common stock which is to be issued in connection with the mutual-to-stock conversion transaction described below.

This Appraisal is furnished pursuant to the requirements stipulated in the Code of Federal Regulations and has been prepared in accordance with the “Guidelines for Appraisal Reports for the Valuation of Savings and Loan Associations Converting from Mutual to Stock Form of Organization” (the “Valuation Guidelines”) of the Office of Thrift Supervision (“OTS”) and accepted by the Federal Reserve Board (“FRB”), the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (“OCC”), and applicable regulatory interpretations thereof.

Description of Plan of Conversion

On May 25, 2021, the Boards of Directors of Ponce Bank Mutual Holding Company (the “MHC”) and PDL Community Bancorp, Inc. (“PDLB”) adopted a plan of conversion and reorganization whereby the MHC will convert to stock form. As a result of the conversion, PDLB, which currently owns all of the issued and outstanding common stock of Ponce Bank (the “Bank”), will be succeeded by a new Maryland corporation with the name of Ponce Financial Group, Inc. (“Ponce Financial” or the “Company”). Following the conversion, the MHC will no longer exist. For purposes of this document, the existing consolidated entity will hereinafter also be referred to as Ponce Financial or the Company, unless otherwise identified as PDLB. As of March 31, 2021, the MHC had a majority ownership interest in, and its principal asset consisted of, approximately 56.09% of the common stock (the “MHC Shares”) of PDLB. The remaining 43.91% of PDLB’s common stock is owned by public stockholders.

It is our understanding that Ponce Financial will offer its stock, representing the majority ownership interest held by the MHC, in a subscription offering to Eligible Account Holders, Tax-Qualified Plan consisting of the Bank’s employee stock ownership plan (the “ESOP”), Supplemental Eligible Account Holders and Other Members. To the extent that shares remain available for purchase after satisfaction of all subscriptions received in the subscription offering, the shares may be offered for sale to the public at large in a community

 

Washington Headquarters         

1311-A Dolley Madison Boulevard

     Telephone:   (703) 528-1700

Suite 2A

     Fax No.:  (703) 528-1788

McLean, VA 22101

     Toll-Free No.:  (866) 723-0594

www.rpfinancial.com

     E-Mail: mail@rpfinancial.com


Boards of Directors

June 1, 2021

Page 2

 

offering and a syndicated offering. Upon completing the mutual-to- stock conversion and stock offering (the “second-step conversion”), the Company will be 100% owned by public shareholders, the publicly-held shares of PDLB will be exchanged for shares in the Company at a ratio that retains their ownership interest at the time the conversion is completed and the MHC assets will be consolidated with the Company.

The plan of conversion provides for a contribution to the Ponce De Leon Foundation (the “Foundation”). The Foundation contribution will be funded with 3.0% of the number of shares of common stock sold in the second-step stock offering and $1.0 million of cash funded by the net proceeds retained by the Company. The purpose of the Foundation is to provide financial support to charitable organizations in the communities in which Ponce Bank operates and to enable those communities to share in the Bank’s long-term growth. The Foundation is dedicated completely to community activities and the promotion of charitable causes.

RP® Financial, LC.

RP® Financial, LC. (“RP Financial”) is a financial consulting firm serving the financial services industry nationwide that, among other things, specializes in financial valuations and analyses of business enterprises and securities, including the pro forma valuation for savings institutions converting from mutual-to-stock form. The background and experience of RP Financial is detailed in Exhibit V- 1. We believe that, except for the fee we will receive for the Appraisal, we are independent of the Company, PDLB, the Bank, the MHC and the other parties engaged by the Bank or the Company to assist in the second-step conversion process.

Valuation Methodology

In preparing our Appraisal, we have reviewed the regulatory applications of the Company, the Bank and the MHC, including the prospectus as filed with the FRB and the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). We have conducted a financial analysis of the Company, the Bank and the MHC that has included a review of audited financial information for the years ended December 31, 2016 through December 31, 2020, a review of various unaudited information and internal financial reports through March 31, 2021, and due diligence related discussions with the Company’s management; Mazars USA, LLP, the Company’s independent auditor; Locke Lord LLP, the Company’s conversion counsel and Janney Montgomery Scott LLC, the Company’s marketing advisor in connection with the stock offering. All assumptions and conclusions set forth in the Appraisal were reached independently from such discussions. In addition, where appropriate, we have considered information based on other available published sources that we believe are reliable. While we believe the information and data gathered from all these sources are reliable, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of such information.

We have investigated the competitive environment within which Ponce Financial operates and have assessed Ponce Financial’s relative strengths and weaknesses. We have kept abreast of the changing regulatory and legislative environment for financial institutions and analyzed the potential impact on Ponce Financial and the industry as a whole. We have analyzed the potential effects of the stock conversion on Ponce Financial’s operating characteristics and financial performance as they relate to the pro forma market value of Ponce Financial. We have analyzed the assets held by the MHC, which will be consolidated with


Boards of Directors

June 1, 2021

Page 3

 

Ponce Financial’s assets and equity pursuant to the completion of the second-step conversion. We have reviewed the economic and demographic characteristics of the Company’s primary market area. We have compared Ponce Financial’s financial performance and condition with selected publicly-traded thrifts in accordance with the Valuation Guidelines, as well as all publicly-traded thrifts and thrift holding companies. We have reviewed the current conditions in the securities markets in general and the market for thrift stocks in particular, including the market for existing thrift issues, initial public offerings by thrifts and thrift holding companies and second-step conversion offerings. We have excluded from such analyses thrifts subject to announced or rumored acquisition, and/or institutions that exhibit other unusual characteristics.

The Appraisal is based on Ponce Financial’s representation that the information contained in the regulatory applications and additional information furnished to us by Ponce Financial and its independent auditor, legal counsel and other authorized agents are truthful, accurate and complete. We did not independently verify the financial statements and other information provided by Ponce Financial, or its independent auditor, legal counsel and other authorized agents nor did we independently value the assets or liabilities of Ponce Financial. The valuation considers Ponce Financial only as a going concern and should not be considered as an indication of Ponce Financial’s liquidation value.

Our appraised value is predicated on a continuation of the current operating environment for Ponce Financial and for all thrifts and their holding companies. Changes in the local, state and national economy, the legislative and regulatory environment for financial institutions and mutual holding companies, the stock market, interest rates, and other external forces (such as natural disasters or significant world events) may occur from time to time, often with great unpredictability and may materially impact the value of thrift stocks as a whole or the value of Ponce Financial’s stock alone. It is our understanding that there are no current plans for selling control of Ponce Financial following completion of the second-step conversion. To the extent that such factors can be foreseen, they have been factored into our analysis.

The estimated pro forma market value is defined as the price at which Ponce Financial’s common stock, immediately upon completion of the second-step stock offering, would change hands between a willing buyer and a willing seller, neither being under any compulsion to buy or sell and both having reasonable knowledge of relevant facts.

In preparing the pro forma pricing analysis we have taken into account the pro forma impact of the MHC’s net assets (i.e., unconsolidated equity) that will be consolidated with the Company and thus will increase equity. After accounting for the impact of the MHC’s net assets, the public shareholders’ ownership interest was reduced by approximately 0.02%. Accordingly, for purposes of the Company’s pro forma valuation, the public shareholders’ pro forma ownership interest was reduced from 43.91% to 43.89% and the MHC’s ownership interest was increased from 56.09% to 56.11%.


Boards of Directors

June 1, 2021

Page 4

 

Valuation Conclusion

It is our opinion that, as of June 1, 2021, the estimated aggregate pro forma valuation of the shares of the Company to be issued and outstanding at the end of the conversion offering – including (1) newly-issued shares representing the MHC’s current ownership interest in the Company; (2) exchange shares issued to existing public shareholders of PDLB; and (3) shares issued to the Foundation – was $190,282,790 at the midpoint, equal to 19,028,279 shares at $10.00 per share. The resulting range of value and pro forma shares, all based on $10.00 per share, are as follows: $161,740,370 or 16,174,037 shares at the minimum, $218,825,210 or 21,882,521 shares at the maximum and $251,648,990 or 25,164,899 shares at the super maximum.

Based on this valuation and taking into account the ownership interest represented by the shares owned by the MHC, the midpoint of the offering range is $105,000,000 equal to 10,500,000 shares at $10.00 per share. The resulting offering range and offering shares, all based on $10.00 per share, are as follows: $89,250,000 or 8,925,000 shares at the minimum, $120,750,000 or 12,075,000 shares at the maximum and $138,862,500 or 13,886,250 shares at the super maximum.

Establishment of the Exchange Ratio

The conversion regulations provide that in a conversion of a mutual holding company, the minority stockholders are entitled to exchange the public shares for newly issued shares in the fully converted company. The Boards of Directors of the MHC and PDLB have independently determined the exchange ratio, which has been designed to preserve the current aggregate percentage ownership in the Company (adjusted for the dilution resulting from the consolidation of the MHC’s unconsolidated equity into the Company). The exchange ratio to be received by the existing minority shareholders of the Company will be determined at the end of the offering, based on the total number of shares sold in the offering and the final appraisal. Based on the valuation conclusion herein, the resulting offering value and the $ 10.00 per share offering price, the indicated exchange ratio at the midpoint is 1.0991 shares of the Company’s stock for every one share held by public shareholders. Furthermore, based on the offering range of value, the indicated exchange ratio is 0.9342 at the minimum, 1.2639 at the maximum and 1.4535 at the super maximum. RP Financial expresses no opinion on the proposed exchange of newly issued Company shares for the shares held by the public stockholders or on the proposed exchange ratio.

Limiting Factors and Considerations

The valuation is not intended, and must not be construed, as a recommendation of any kind as to the advisability of purchasing shares of the common stock. Moreover, because such valuation is determined in accordance with applicable regulatory guidelines and is necessarily based upon estimates and projections of a number of matters, all of which are subject to change from time to time, no assurance can be given that persons who purchase shares of common stock in the conversion offering, or prior to that time, will thereafter be able to buy or sell such shares at prices related to the foregoing valuation of the estimated pro forma market value thereof. The appraisal reflects only a valuation range as of this date for the pro forma market value of Ponce Financial immediately upon issuance of the stock and does not take into account any trading activity with respect to the purchase and sale of common stock in the secondary market on the date of issuance of such securities or at anytime thereafter following the completion of the second-step conversion.


Boards of Directors

June 1, 2021

Page 5

 

RP Financial’s valuation was based on the financial condition, operations and shares outstanding of PDLB as of March 31, 2021, the date of the financial data included in the prospectus. The proposed exchange ratio to be received by the current public stockholders of PDLB and the exchange of the public shares for newly issued shares of Ponce Financial’s common stock as a full public company was determined independently by the Boards of Directors of the MHC and PDLB. RP Financial expresses no opinion on the proposed exchange ratio to public stockholders or the exchange of public shares for newly issued shares.

RP Financial is not a seller of securities within the meaning of any federal and state securities laws and any report prepared by RP Financial shall not be used as an offer or solicitation with respect to the purchase or sale of any securities. RP Financial maintains a policy which prohibits RP Financial, its principals or employees from purchasing stock of its client institutions.

This valuation may be updated as provided for in the conversion regulations and guidelines. These updates will consider, among other things, any developments or changes in the financial performance and condition of Ponce Financial, management policies, and current conditions in the equity markets for thrift shares, both existing issues and new issues. These updates may also consider changes in other external factors which impact value including, but not limited to: various changes in the legislative and regulatory environment for financial institutions, the stock market and the market for thrift stocks, and interest rates. Should any such new developments or changes be material, in our opinion, to the valuation of the shares, appropriate adjustments to the estimated pro forma market value will be made. The reasons for any such adjustments will be explained in the update at the date of the release of the update. The valuation will also be updated at the completion of Ponce Financial’s stock offering.

 

Respectfully submitted,
RP® FINANCIAL, LC.
LOGO
Ronald S. Riggins
President and Managing Director
LOGO
Gregory E. Dunn
Director


RP® Financial, LC.       TABLE OF CONTENTS
      i

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PONCE FINANCIAL GROUP, INC.

PONCE BANK

Bronx, New York

 

DESCRIPTION

   PAGE
NUMBER
 

CHAPTER ONE      OVERVIEW AND FINANCIAL ANALYSIS

  

Introduction

     I.1  

Plan of Conversion

     I.2  

Strategic Overview

     I.3  

Balance Sheet Trends

     I.5  

Income and Expense Trends

     I.9  

Interest Rate Risk Management

     I.12  

Lending Activities and Strategy

     I.13  

Asset Quality

     I.16  

Funding Composition and Strategy

     I.17  

Subsidiaries

     I.18  

Legal Proceedings

     I.18  

CHAPTER TWO       MARKET AREA ANALYSIS

  

Introduction

     II.1  

National Economic Factors

     II.1  

Market Area Demographics

     II.5  

Local Economy

     II.7  

Unemployment Trends

     II.8  

Market Area Deposit Characteristics and Competition

     II.9  

CHAPTER THREE      PEER GROUP ANALYSIS

  

Peer Group Selection

      III.1  

Financial Condition

      III.5  

Income and Expense Components

      III.8  

Loan Composition

     III.10  

Interest Rate Risk

     III.12  

Credit Risk

     III.14  

Summary

     III.14  


RP® Financial, LC.       TABLE OF CONTENTS
      ii

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PONCE FINANCIAL GROUP, INC.

PONCE BANK

Bronx, New York

(continued)

 

 

DESCRIPTION

   PAGE
NUMBER
 

CHAPTER FOUR     VALUATION ANALYSIS

  

Introduction

     IV.1  

Appraisal Guidelines

     IV.1  

RP Financial Approach to the Valuation

     IV.1  

Valuation Analysis

     IV.2  

1.  Financial Condition

     IV.2  

2.  Profitability, Growth and Viability of Earnings

     IV.4  

3.  Asset Growth

     IV.6  

4.  Primary Market Area

     IV.6  

5.  Dividends

     IV.7  

6.  Liquidity of the Shares

     IV.8  

7.  Marketing of the Issue

     IV.8  

A. The Public Market

     IV.9  

B. The New Issue Market

     IV.15  

C. The Acquisition Market

     IV.15  

D. Trading in PDLB’s Stock

     IV.17  

8.  Management

     IV.18  

9.  Effect of Government Regulation and Regulatory Reform

     IV.18  

Summary of Adjustments

     IV.18  

Valuation Approaches

     IV.19  

1.  Price-to-Earnings (“P/E”)

     IV.21  

2.  Price-to-Book (“P/B”)

     IV.21  

3.  Price-to-Assets (“P/A”)

     IV.23  

Comparison to Recent Offerings

     IV.23  

Valuation Conclusion

     IV.24  

Establishment of the Exchange Ratio

     IV.24  


RP® Financial, LC.       LIST OF TABLES
      iii

 

LIST OF TABLES

PONCE FINANCIAL GROUP, INC.

PONCE BANK

Bronx, New York

 

TABLE

    NUMBER    

 

DESCRIPTION

   PAGE  
1.1  

Historical Balance Sheet Data

     I.6  
1.2  

Historical Income Statements

     I.10  
2.1  

Summary Demographic Data

     II.6  
2.2  

Primary Market Area Employment Sectors

     II.7  
2.3  

Market Area Largest Employers

     II.8  
2.4  

Unemployment Trends

     II.9  
2.5  

Deposit Summary

     II.10  
2.6  

Market Area Deposit Competitors

     II.11  
3.1  

Peer Group of Publicly-Traded Thrifts

     III.3  
3.2  

Balance Sheet Composition and Growth Rates

     III.6  
3.3  

Income as a % of Average Assets and Yields, Costs, Spreads

     III.9  
3.4  

Loan Portfolio Composition and Related Information

     III.11  
3.5  

Interest Rate Risk Measures and Net Interest Income Volatility

     III.13  
3.6  

Credit Risk Measures and Related Information

     III.15  
4.1  

Market Area Unemployment Rates

     IV.7  
4.2  

Pricing Characteristics and After-Market Trends

     IV.16  
4.3  

Market Pricing Versus Peer Group

     IV.22  


RP® Financial, LC.       OVERVIEW AND FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
      I.1

 

I. OVERVIEW AND FINANCIAL ANALYSIS

Introduction

Ponce Bank, or the “Bank”, established in 1960, is a federally-chartered stock savings association headquartered in Bronx, New York. Ponce Bank serves the New York City metropolitan area through its headquarters office and 13 full service branch offices. The Bank’s branch network covers a four-county market area in New York: Bronx County (4 branches), Queens County (3 branches), Kings County (3 branches) and New York County (2 branches). Ponce Bank also maintains one branch location in Hudson County, New Jersey. A map of Ponce Bank’s full serve branch office locations is provided in Exhibit I-1. Ponce Bank is a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) system and its deposits are insured up to the maximum allowable amount by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”). The Bank is designated as a Minority Depository Institution (“MDI”) and a Community Development Financial Institution (“CDFI”) under applicable regulations and is a certified Small Business Administration (“SBA”) lender.

PDL Community Bancorp, Inc. (“PDLB”) is the federally chartered mid-tier holding company of the Bank and Mortgage World Bankers, Inc. (“Mortgage World”), a licensed New York State mortgage banker. PDLB completed its initial public offering on September 29, 2017, pursuant to which it sold 8,308,362 shares or 45.0% of its outstanding common stock to the public and issued 9,545,388 shares or 51.7% of its common stock outstanding to Ponce Bank Mutual Holding Company (the “MHC”), the mutual holding company parent of PDLB. Additionally, PDLB issued 609,279 shares of common stock or 3.3% of its common stock outstanding to The Ponce De Leon Foundation (the “Foundation”). The MHC and PDLB are subject to supervision and regulation by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (the “Federal Reserve Board” or the “FRB”). At March 31, 2021, PDLB had total consolidated assets of $1.434 billion, deposits of $1.139 billion and equity of $161.2 million or 11.24% of total assets. PDLB’s audited financial statements for the most recent period are included by reference as Exhibit I-2.


RP® Financial, LC.       OVERVIEW AND FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
      I.2

 

Plan of Conversion

On May 25, 2021, the respective Board of Directors of PDLB and the MHC adopted a plan of conversion and reorganization, whereby the MHC will convert to stock form. As a result of the conversion, PDLB, which currently owns all of the issued and outstanding common stock of the Bank, will be succeeded by Ponce Financial Group, Inc. (“Ponce Financial” or the “Company”), a newly formed Maryland corporation. Following the conversion, the MHC will no longer exist. For purposes of this document, the existing consolidated entity will also hereinafter be also referred to as Ponce Financial or the Company, unless otherwise identified as PDLB. As of March 31, 2021, the MHC had a majority ownership interest of approximately 56.09% in and its principal asset consisted of 9,545,388 common stock shares of PDLB (the “MHC Shares”). The remaining 7,472,864 shares or approximately 43.91% of PDLB’s common stock was owned by public shareholders.

It is our understanding that Ponce Financial will offer its stock, representing the majority ownership interest held by the MHC, in a subscription offering to Eligible Account Holders, Tax-Qualified Plan consisting of the Bank’s employee stock ownership plan (the “ESOP”), Supplemental Eligible Account Holders and Other Members. To the extent that shares remain available for purchase after satisfaction of all subscriptions received in the subscription offering, the shares may be offered for sale to the public at large in a community offering and a syndicated offering. Upon completing the mutual-to-stock conversion and stock offering (the “second-step conversion”), the Company will be 100% owned by public shareholders, the publicly-held shares of PDLB will be exchanged for shares in the Company at a ratio that retains their ownership interest at the time the conversion is completed and the MHC assets will be consolidated with the Company.

The plan of conversion provides for a contribution to the Foundation. The Foundation contribution will be funded with 3.0% of the number of shares of common stock sold in the second-step stock offering and $1.0 million of cash funded by the net proceeds retained by the Company. The purpose of the Foundation is to provide financial support to charitable organizations in the communities in which Ponce Bank operates and to enable those communities to share in the Bank’s long-term growth. The Foundation is dedicated completely to community activities and the promotion of charitable causes.


RP® Financial, LC.       OVERVIEW AND FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
      I.3

 

Strategic Overview

Ponce Financial maintains a local community banking emphasis, with a primary strategic objective of meeting the borrowing and savings needs of its local customer base. The Company is pursuing a strategy of strengthening its community bank franchise dedicated to meeting the banking needs of business and retail customers in the communities that are served by the Company. Growth strategies are emphasizing loan growth that is primarily targeting growth of multi-family and commercial real estate loans, as well as loans originated through the Company’s community lending programs as an authorized direct lender under SBA and a CDFI. Pursuant to implementation of lending growth strategies, the Company has been in the process of selling selected office facilities at gains to the net book value of the properties for purposes of adding liquidity and capital to provide an additional funding source and to increase leverage capacity.

On July 10, 2020, the Company completed its acquisition of Mortgage World. Mortgage World is a mortgage banking company subject to regulation and examination by the New York State Department of Financial Services. Mortgage World is headquartered in Astoria, New York, with a primary market area in the New York City metropolitan area. In addition to its headquarters office, Mortgage World maintains five office locations in the New York cities of Garden City, Brooklyn and Flushing and the New Jersey cities of Englewood Cliffs and Bergenfield.

The Company’s objective is to fund asset growth primarily through deposit growth, emphasizing growth of lower cost core deposits. Core deposit growth is expected to be in part facilitated by growth of commercial lending relationships, pursuant to which the Company is seeking to establish a full-service banking relationship with its commercial loan customers through offering a full range of commercial loan products that can be packaged with lower cost commercial deposit products.

Cash and investments serve as a supplement to the Company’s lending activities, in which cash and cash equivalents currently account for the largest portion of the Company’s cash and investment holdings for purposes of managing liquidity and interest rate risk. The investment portfolio consists of corporate debt securities, U.S. Government bonds and mortgage-backed securities that are guaranteed or insured by government sponsored enterprises (“GSEs”) or backed by Ginnie Mae.

Deposits have consistently served as the primary funding source for the Company, supplemented with borrowings as an alternative funding source for purposes of managing funding costs and interest rate risk, as well as funding Mortgage World’s operations. Core deposits, consisting of transaction and savings account deposits, constitute the largest portion of the Company’s deposit base. Borrowings currently held by the Company consist of FHLB advances and warehouse lines of credit maintained by Mortgage World for the purpose of funding the origination and sale of residential mortgage loans.


RP® Financial, LC.       OVERVIEW AND FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
      I.4

 

Ponce Financial’s earnings base is largely dependent upon net interest income and operating expense levels. The Company has experienced net interest margin compression during recent years, as the result a narrowing yield-cost spread. Comparatively, the Company experienced net interest margin expansion during the first quarter of 2021, as the result of a widening yield-cost spread. Overall, the Company has maintained a relatively strong net interest margin over the past five and one-quarter years, which has been facilitated through lending diversification into loans with relatively high yields. Operating expense ratios have increased in recent years, primarily in connection with implementation of strategic initiatives discussed below and the acquisition of Mortgage World’s mortgage banking operations. Non-interest operating income has been a growing contributor to the Company’s earnings, which has been mostly attributable to revenues generated by Mortgage World. Loan loss provisions have had a varied impact on the Company’s earnings over the past five and one-quarter years, based on loan growth, credit quality trends and more recently to address the economic uncertainty resulting from the Covid-19 pandemic.

In recent years the Company has pursued implementation of strategic initiatives to upgrade infrastructure, add experienced bankers, lending and relationship staff, adopt electronic banking services and restructure its retail business model (“Vision 2020”). As part of Vision 2020, the Company partnered with Sales Force to deploy applications throughout the organization including retail services, lending processes, back-office operations, digital banking and loan underwriting. The infrastructure upgrade has focused primarily on implementing technology, cybersecurity and network progression while establishing a Virtual Private Network (“VPN”)

A key component of the Company’s business plan is to complete a second-step conversion offering. The Company’s strengthened capital position will increase operating flexibility and facilitate implementation of planned growth strategies, including increasing lending capacity to the Company’s current loan customers as well as to prospective loans customers of the Company. Additionally, in the near term, the second-step offering will serve to substantially increase regulatory capital and liquidity and, thereby, facilitate building and maintaining loss reserves while also providing the Company with greater flexibility to work with borrowers affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. The Company’s strengthened capital position will also


RP® Financial, LC.       OVERVIEW AND FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
      I.5

 

provide more of a cushion against potential credit quality related losses in future periods. Ponce Financial’s higher capital position resulting from the infusion of stock proceeds will also serve to reduce interest rate risk, particularly through enhancing the Company’s interest-earning assets/interest-bearing liabilities (“IEA/IBL”) ratio. The additional funds realized from the stock offering will serve to raise the level of interest-earning assets funded with equity and, thereby, reduce the ratio of interest-earning assets funded with interest-bearing liabilities as the balance of interest-bearing liabilities will initially remain relatively unchanged following the conversion, which may facilitate a reduction in Ponce Financial’s funding costs. Ponce Financial’s strengthened capital position will also position the Company to pursue additional expansion opportunities. Such expansion could potentially include establishing or acquiring additional banking offices to gain a market presence in nearby markets that are complementary to the Company’s existing branch network. As a fully-converted institution, the Company’s stronger capital position and greater capacity to offer stock as consideration for an acquisition may also facilitate increased opportunities to grow through acquisitions. At this time, the Company has no specific plans for expansion through acquisitions.

The projected uses of proceeds are highlighted below.

 

   

Ponce Financial. The Company is expected to retain up to 50% of the net offering proceeds. At present, funds at the Company level, net of the loan to the ESOP, are expected to be invested initially into liquid funds, in which some or all may be held as a deposit at the Bank, and into Mortgage World’s operations. Over time, the funds may be utilized for various corporate purposes, possibly including acquisitions, infusing additional equity into the Bank, repurchases of common stock and the payment of cash dividends.

 

   

Ponce Bank. Approximately 50% of the net stock proceeds will be infused into the Bank in exchange for all of the Bank’s stock. Cash proceeds (i.e., net proceeds less deposits withdrawn to fund stock purchases) infused into the Bank are anticipated to become part of general operating funds and are expected to be primarily utilized to fund loan growth over time.

Overall, it is the Company’s objective to pursue growth that will serve to increase returns, while, at the same time, growth will not be pursued that could potentially compromise the overall risk associated with Ponce Financial’s operations.

Balance Sheet Trends

Table 1.1 shows the Company’s historical balance sheet data for the past five and one-quarter years. From yearend 2016 through March 31, 2021, Ponce Financial’s assets increased at a 16.65% annual rate. Asset growth was largely driven by loan growth and was primarily funded by deposit growth. A summary of Ponce Financial’s key operating ratios over the past five and one-quarter years is present in Exhibit I-3.


RP® Financial, LC.       OVERVIEW AND FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
      I.6

 

Table 1.1

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Historical Balance Sheet Data

 

                                                                           

12/31/16-

3/31/21

Annual

 
                                                                         
    At December 31,     At March 31,  
    2016     2017     2018     2019     2020     2021     Growth Rate  
    Amount     Pct(1)     Amount     Pct(1)     Amount     Pct(1)     Amount     Pct(1)     Amount     Pct(1)     Amount     Pct(1)     Pct  
    ($000)     (%)     ($000)     (%)     ($000)     (%)     ($000)     (%)     ($000)     (%)     ($000)     (%)     (%)  

Total Amount of:

  $ 744,983       100.00   $ 925,522       100.00   $ 1,059,901       100.00   $ 1,053,756       100.00   $ 1,355,231       100.00   $ 1,433,707       100.00     16.65

Assets

                         

Cash and cash equivalents

    11,716       1.57     59,724       6.45     69,778       6.58     27,677       2.63     72,078       5.32     90,122       6.29     61.62

Investment securities

    52,690       7.07     28,897       3.12     27,144       2.56     21,504       2.04     19,241       1.42     32,661       2.28     -10.64

Loans held for sale

    2,143       0.29     —         0.00     —         0.00     1,030       0.10     35,406       2.61     13,725       0.96     101.61

Loans receivable, net

    642,148       86.20     798,703       86.30     918,509       86.66     955,737       90.70     1,158,640       85.49     1,230,458       85.82     16.53

FHLB stock

    964       0.13     1,511       0.16     2,915       0.28     5,735       0.54     6,426       0.47     6,057       0.42     54.10

Deposits

  $ 643,078       86.32   $ 713,985       77.14   $ 809,758       76.40   $ 782,043       74.21   $ 1,029,579       75.97   $ 1,138,546       79.41     14.39

Borrowings

    3,000       0.40     36,400       3.93     69,404       6.55     104,404       9.91     148,699       10.97     121,595       8.48     138.95

Equity

  $ 92,992       12.48   $ 164,785       17.80   $ 169,172       15.96   $ 158,402       15.03   $ 159,544       11.77   $ 161,204       11.24     13.82

Loans/Deposits

      99.86       111.87       113.43       122.21       112.54       108.07  

Number of Offices

      14         14         14         14         20         20    

 

(1)

Ratios are as a percent of ending assets.

Sources: Ponce Financial’s prospectus, audited and unaudited financial statements, and RP Financial calculations.


RP® Financial, LC.       OVERVIEW AND FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
      I.7

 

Ponce Financial’s loans receivable portfolio increased at a 16.53% annual rate from yearend 2016 through March 31, 2021, which provided for a slight decrease in the loans-to-assets ratio from 86.20% at yearend 2016 to 85.82% at March 31, 2021.

Trends in the Company’s loan portfolio composition since yearend 2016 show that the concentration of 1-4 family mortgage loans comprising total loans decreased from 49.88% of total loans receivable at yearend 2016 to 33.53% of total loans receivable at March 31, 20201. Commercial real estate loans also decreased from 18.64% of total loans receivable at yearend 2016 to 17.28% of total loans receivable at March 31, 2021. Comparatively, from yearend 2016 through March 31, 2021, the concentration of multi-family loans increased slightly to equal 25.28% of total loans receivable at March 31, 2021 and construction and land loans increased from 4.66% of total loans receivable to 9.57% of total loans receivable. Over the same time period, the relative concentrations of commercial business loans increased from 2.41% of total loans receivable to 11.40% of total loans receivable and consumer loans increased from 0.13% of total loans receivable to 2.94% of total loans receivable. Additionally, loans held for sale, fluctuated from a zero balance at year ends 2017 and 2018 to a high of $35.4 million at yearend 2020 and equaled $13.7 million or 0.96% of assets at March 31, 2021.

The intent of the Company’s investment policy is to provide adequate liquidity and to generate a favorable return within the context of supporting overall credit and interest rate risk objectives. It is anticipated that proceeds retained at the holding company level will initially be invested into liquid funds held as a deposit at the Bank and into Mortgage World’s operations. Since yearend 2016, the Company’s level of cash and investment securities (inclusive of FHLB stock) ranged from a low of 5.21% of assets at yearend 2019 to a high of 9.74% of assets at yearend 2017 and equaled 8.99% of assets at March 31, 2021. As of March 31, 2021, the Company held investment securities totaling $32.7 million or 2.28% of assets. Mortgage-backed securities totaling $16.1 million comprised the most significant component of the Company’s investment securities portfolio at March 31, 2021. Other investments held by the Company at March 31, 2021 consisted of corporate bonds ($13.6 million) and U.S. Government bonds ($3.0 million). As of March 31, 2021, $30.9 million of the investment securities portfolio was maintained as available for sale and $1.7 million was maintained as held to maturity. As of


RP® Financial, LC.       OVERVIEW AND FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
      I.8

 

March 31, 2021, the available for sale investment portfolio had a net unrealized gain of $97,000. Exhibit I-4 provides historical detail of the Company’s investment portfolio. As of March 31, 2021, the Company also held $90.1 million of cash and cash equivalents and $6.1 million of FHLB stock.

Ponce Financial’s funding needs have been addressed through a combination of deposits, borrowings and internal cash flows. From yearend 2016 through March 31, 2021, the Company’s deposits increased at a 14.39% annual rate. Total deposits increased throughout the period covered in Table 1.1, with the exception of 2019. Deposits as a percent of assets ranged from a low of 74.21% at yearend 2019 to a high of 86.32% at yearend 2016. As of March 31, 2021, deposits equaled 79.41% of assets. Transaction and savings account deposits comprise the largest concentration of the Company’s deposits and accounted for 61.65% of the Company’s average total deposits during the three months ended March 31, 2021, with the remaining 38.35% of total deposits consisting of CDs.

Borrowings serve as an alternative funding source for the Company to address funding needs for growth, funding Mortgage World’s operations and to support management of deposit costs and interest rate risk. Over the five and one-quarter year period covered in Table 1.1, borrowings ranged from a low of $3.0 million or 0.40% of assets at yearend 2016 to a high of $148.7 million or 10.97% of assets at yearend 2020. As of March 31, 2021, borrowings totaled $121.6 million or 8.48% of assets and consisted of FHLB advances ($109.3 million), warehouse lines of credit ($11.7 million) and mortgage loan fundings payable ($676,000).

The Company’s equity increased at a 13.82% annual rate from yearend 2016 through March 31, 2021, with most of the growth occurring in 2017 in connection with the capital raised in the Company’s first-step public stock offering. Stronger asset growth relative to capital growth provided for a decrease in the Company’s equity-to-assets ratio from 12.48% at yearend 2016 to 11.24% at March 31, 2021. The Bank maintained capital surpluses relative to all of its regulatory capital requirements at March 31, 2021. The addition of stock proceeds will serve to strengthen the Company’s capital position, as well as support growth opportunities. At the same time, the significant increase in Ponce Financial’s pro forma capital position will initially depress its ROE.


RP® Financial, LC.       OVERVIEW AND FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
      I.9

 

Income and Expense Trends

Table 1.2 shows the Company’s historical income statements for the years ended December 31, 2016 through December 31, 2020 and for the twelve months ended March 31, 2021. During the period covered in Table 1.2, the Company’s reported earnings ranged from a net loss of $5.1 million or 0.49% of average assets during 2019 to a high of $7.5 million or 0.59% of average assets during the twelve months ended March 31, 2021. Net interest income and operating expenses represent the primary components of the Company’s earnings, while non-interest operating income has been a growing contributor to the Company’s earnings. Loan loss provisions and non-operating income and losses have had a varied impact on the Company’s earnings during the period covered in Table 1.2

For the period covered in Table 1.2, the Company’s net interest income to average assets ratio ranged from a low of 3.51% during 2020 to a high of 3.83% during 2016. The Company’s net interest income to average assets ratio increased slightly to 3.54% during the twelve months ended March 31, 2021. The decrease in the Company’s net interest income ratio from 2016 to 2020 occurred mostly during 2019 and 2020, as the result of interest rate spread compression. Interest rate spread compression during 2019 was due to a more significant increase in the cost of interest-bearing liabilities compared to the increase in the yield on interest earning asset, while interest rate spread compression during 2020 was due to a more significant decrease in the yield on interest-earning assets relative to the decrease in the cost of interest-bearing liabilities. The slight increase in the net interest income ratio during the twelve months ended March 31, 2021 was facilitated by a higher interest rate spread during the first quarter of 2021 compared to the year ago quarter, which was the result of a more significant decrease in the cost of interest-bearing liabilities relative to the decrease in the yield on interest-earning assets. Overall, during the past five and one-quarter years, the Company’s interest rate spread decreased from a high of 3.82% during 2016 to a low of 3.37% during 2020. For the three months ended March 31, 2021, the Company’s interest rate spread equaled 3.76% compared to 3.51% for the three months ended March 31, 2020. The Company’s net interest rate spreads and yields and costs for the past five and one-quarter years are set forth in Exhibit I-3 and Exhibit I-5.

Pursuant to the Company’s acquisition of Mortgage World in 2020, non-interest operating income has become a more significant contributor to the Company’s earnings in 2020 and the first quarter of 2021. Throughout the period shown in Table 1.2, sources of non-interest


RP® Financial, LC.       OVERVIEW AND FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
      I.10

 

Table 1.2

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Historical Income Statements

 

     For the Year Ended December 31,     For the 12 Months
Ended 03/31/2021
 
     2016     2017     2018     2019     2020  
     Amount     Pct(1)     Amount     Pct(1)     Amount     Pct(1)     Amount     Pct(1)     Amount     Pct(1)     Amount     Pct(1)  
     ($000)     (%)     ($000)     (%)     ($000)     (%)     ($000)     (%)     ($000)     (%)     ($000)     (%)  

Interest income

   $ 33,741       4.65   $ 38,989       4.56   $ 46,156       4.76   $ 50,491       4.85   $ 53,339       4.46   $ 55,486       4.37

Interest expense

     (5,936     -0.82     (6,783     -0.79     (9,490     -0.98     (12,358     -1.19     (11,369     -0.95     (10,548     -0.83
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net interest income

   $ 27,805       3.83   $ 32,206       3.77   $ 36,666       3.78   $ 38,133       3.66   $ 41,970       3.51   $ 44,938       3.54

Provision for loan losses

     57       0.01     (1,716     -0.20     (1,249     -0.13     (258     -0.02     (2,443     -0.20     (1,983     -0.16
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net interest income after provisions

   $ 27,862       3.84   $ 30,490       3.57   $ 35,417       3.65   $ 37,875       3.63   $ 39,527       3.31   $ 42,955       3.38

Non-interest operating income

   $ 2,431       0.34   $ 3,104       0.36   $ 2,938       0.30   $ 2,683       0.26   $ 4,950       0.41   $ 6,050       0.48

Gain on sale of mortgage loans

     0       0.00     0       0.00     0       0.00     0       0.00     4,120       0.34     5,628       0.44

Operating expense

     (27,863     -3.84     (30,264     -3.54     (34,557     -3.56     (36,677     -3.52     (47,539     -3.98     (49,632     -3.90
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net operating income

   $ 2,430       0.34   $ 3,330       0.39   $ 3,798       0.39   $ 3,881       0.37   $ 1,058       0.09   $ 5,001       0.39

Non-Operating Income/(Losses)

                        

Charitable foundation contribution

     —         0.00   ($ 6,293     -0.74     —         0.00     —         0.00     —         0.00     —         0.00

Loss on termination of pension plan

     —         0.00     —         0.00     —         0.00   ($ 9,930     -0.95     —         0.00     —         0.00

Gain on sale of property

     —         0.00     —         0.00     —         0.00     —         0.00   $ 4,177       0.35   $ 4,840       0.38
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net non-operating income(losses)

   $ 0       0.00   ($ 6,293     -0.74   $ 0       0.00   ($ 9,930     -0.95     4,177       0.35     4,840       0.38

Net income before tax

   $ 2,430       0.34   ($ 2,963     -0.35   $ 3,798       0.39   ($ 6,049     -0.58   $ 5,235       0.44   $ 9,841       0.77

Income tax provision

     (1,005     -0.14     (1,424     -0.17     (1,121     -0.12     924       0.09     (1,382     -0.12     (2,323     -0.18

Net income (loss)

   $ 1,425       0.20   ($ 4,387     -0.51   $ 2,677       0.28   ($ 5,125     -0.49   $ 3,853       0.32   $ 7,518       0.59

Adjusted Earnings

                        

Net income

   $ 1,425       0.20   ($ 4,387     -0.51   $ 2,677       0.28   ($ 5,125     -0.49   $ 3,853       0.32   $ 7,518       0.59

Add(Deduct): Non-operating income

     0       0.00     6,293       0.74     0       0.00     9,930       0.95     (4,177     -0.35     (4,840     -0.38

Tax effect (2)

     0       0.00     (2,140     -0.25     0       0.00     (2,284     -0.22     961       0.08     1,113       0.09

Adjusted earnings

   $ 1,425       0.20   ($ 234     -0.03   $ 2,677       0.28   $ 2,521       0.24   $ 637       0.05   $ 3,791       0.30
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Expense Coverage Ratio (3)

     1.00x         1.06x         1.06x         1.04x         0.88x         0.91x    

Efficiency Ratio (4)

     92.09       85.71       87.25       89.80       93.43       87.44  

 

(1)

Ratios are as a percent of average assets.

 

(2)

Assumes a 34.0% effective tax rate for 2016 and 2017 and a 23.0% effective tax rate for 2018 through the twelve months ended March 31,2021

 

(3)

Expense coverage ratio calculated as net interest income before provisions for loan losses divided by operating expenses.

 

(4)

Efficiency ratio calculated as operating expenses divided by the sum of net interest income before provisions for loan losses plus non-interest operating income.

Sources: Ponce Financial’s prospectus, audited and unaudited financial statements and RP Financial calculations.


RP® Financial, LC.       OVERVIEW AND FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
      I.11

 

operating income ranged from a low of $2.4 million or 0.34% of average assets during 2016 to a high of $11.7 million or 0.92% of average assets during the twelve months ended March 31, 2021. In addition to gains on the sale of mortgage loans, non-interest operating income generated through Mortgage World include loan origination fees, brokerage commissions and other non-interest operating income. For the twelve months ended March 31, 2021, Mortgage World’s non-interest operating income totaled $8.6 million, which accounted for approximately 73% of the Company’s non-interest operating income during the twelve month period. Other sources of non-operating income for the Company consist primarily of fees and service charges and other non-interest operating income.

Operating expenses represent the other major component of the Company’s earnings, ranging from a low of $27.9 million or 3.84% of average assets during 2016 to a high of $49.6 million or 3.90% of average assets during the twelve months ended March 31, 2021. The upward trend in the Company’s operating expenses since 2016 reflects the Company’s investment in personnel and infrastructure to facilitate implementation of growth strategies. Higher operating expenses have also been the result of acquiring Mortgage World’s operations and absorbing the cost of being a public company.

Overall, the general trends in the Company’s net interest income ratio and operating expense ratio showed a decrease in core earnings, as indicated by the Company’s expense coverage ratios (net interest income divided by operating expenses). Ponce Financial’s expense coverage ratio equaled 1.00 times during 2016, versus a ratio of 0.91 times during the twelve months ended March 31, 2021. The decrease in the expense coverage ratio was largely related to the acquisition of Mortgage World, which had a fairly significant impact on operating expenses and a nominal impact on net interest income. Comparatively, largely as the result of non-operating income generated by Mortgage World, Ponce Financial’s efficiency ratio (operating expenses as a percent of the sum of net interest income and other operating income) of 92.09% during 2016 was less favorable compared to its efficiency ratio of 87.44% during the twelve months ended March 31,2021.

During the period covered in Table 1.2, the amount of loan loss provisions recorded by the Company ranged from a recovery of $57,000 or 0.01% of average assets during 2016 to loan loss provisions of $2.4 million or 0.20% of average assets during 2020. For the twelve months ended March 31, 2021, loan loss amounted to $2.0 million or 0.16% of average assets. The higher loan loss provisions established during 2020 and the twelve months ended March


RP® Financial, LC.       OVERVIEW AND FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
      I.12

 

31, 2021 were the result of loan growth, as well as the economic uncertainty associated with the Covid-19 pandemic and the resulting impact it could have on the Company’s credit quality. As of March 31, 2021, the Company maintained valuation allowances of $15.5 million, equal to 1.24% of total loans and 126.07% of non-performing loans. As of March 31, 2021, non-performing loans totaled $12.3 million or 0.99% of total loans. Exhibit I-6 sets forth the Company’s loan loss allowance activity during the past five and one-quarter years.

Non-operating income and losses have had a varied impact on the Company’s earnings over the past five and one-quarter years. No non-operating income or losses were recorded in 2016 and 2018. In 2017, the Company recorded an expense of $6.3 million or 0.74% of average assets for the contribution to the charitable Foundation, which was done in connection with the Company’s first-step public stock offering. In 2019, the termination of the Company’s pension plan resulted in a non-operating loss of $9.9 million or 0.95% of average assets. In 2020 and for the twelve months ended March 31, 2021, the Company recorded gains on the sale of property equal to $4.2 million or 0.35% of average assets and $4.8 million or 0.38% of average assets, respectively. Overall, the items that comprise the Company’s non-operating income and losses are not viewed to be part of the Company’s core or recurring earnings base.

The Company’s effective tax rate ranged from a tax benefit of 15.28% during 2019 to a tax expense of 48.06% during 2017 and equaled 23.61% during the twelve months ended March 31, 2021. The relatively high effective tax rate recorded for 2017 includes a reduction in the value of Ponce Financial’s deferred tax assets and a corresponding charge to income tax expense of $2.1 million as a result of the enactment of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, which reduced the maximum federal corporate income tax rate to 21% from 35%. As set forth in the prospectus, the Company’s effective marginal tax rate is 23.0%.

Interest Rate Risk Management

The Company analyzes its sensitivity to changes in interest rates in two ways: 1) the change in net interest income caused by a change in interest rates; and 2) the change in market value of portfolio equity caused by changes in the values of assets and liabilities, which fluctuate due to changes in interest rates. The market value of portfolio equity, also referred to as the economic value of equity (“EVE”), is defined as the present value of expected cash flows from existing assets, minus the present value of expected cash flows from existing liabilities adjusted for the value of off-balance sheet contracts. As shown in Exhibit I-7, the Company’s interest rate risk analysis as of March 31, 2021 indicated that in the event of a 200 basis point increase in interest rates over a one year period, assuming a permanent parallel and immediate shifts in the yield curve over such period, net interest income would decrease by 2.33% and EVE would decrease by 3.99%, which were within policy limits.


RP® Financial, LC.       OVERVIEW AND FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
      I.13

 

The Company pursues a number of strategies to manage interest rate risk, particularly with respect to seeking to limit the repricing mismatch between interest rate sensitive assets and liabilities. The Company manages interest rate risk from the asset side of the balance sheet through investing in investment securities with adjustable interest rates, maintaining most of the investment securities portfolio as available for sale, maintaining a relatively high level of liquidity in the prevailing low interest rate environment, emphasizing origination of adjustable rate and shorter term fixed rate loans for retention in the Company’s loan portfolio and selling originations of longer term fixed rate 1-4 family permanent mortgage loans in the secondary market. As of March 31, 2021, of the Company’s total loans due after March 31, 2022, adjustable rate loans comprised 69.30%% of total loans receivable (see Exhibit I-8). On the liability side of the balance sheet, management of interest rate risk has been pursued through emphasizing growth of lower costing and less interest rate sensitive transaction and savings accounts, seeking to extend CD maturities through offering attractive rates on certain longer term CDs and utilizing fixed rate FHLB advances with terms of more than one year. Transaction and savings account deposits comprised 61.43% of the Company’s total deposits at March 31, 2021.

The infusion of stock proceeds will serve to further limit the Company’s interest rate risk exposure, as most of the net proceeds will be redeployed into interest-earning assets and the increase in the Company’s capital position will lessen the proportion of interest rate sensitive liabilities funding assets.

Lending Activities and Strategy

Pursuant to the Company’s strategic plan, the Company is pursuing a diversified lending strategy emphasizing commercial real estate/multi-family loans and commercial business loans as the primary areas of targeted loan growth. Historically, Ponce Financial’s lending activities emphasized the origination of 1-4 family permanent mortgage loans and such loans continue to comprise a significant component of the Company’s loan portfolio. Other areas of lending diversification for the Company include construction loans and consumer loans. The origination of 1-4 family permanent mortgage loans is expected to remain a highly active area of lending for the Company, particularly with respect to loan production generated through Mortgage World.


RP® Financial, LC.       OVERVIEW AND FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
      I.14

 

However, growth of the 1-4 family loan portfolio will be constrained by the sale of most originations of longer term, fixed rate 1-4 family permanent mortgage loans. Exhibit I-9 provides historical detail of Ponce Financial’s loan portfolio composition for the past five and one-quarter years and Exhibit I-10 provides the contractual maturity of the Company’s loan portfolio by loan type as of March 31, 2021.

1-4 Family Residential Loans. Ponce Financial offers both fixed rate and adjustable rate 1-4 family permanent mortgage loans with terms of up to 30 years. Loans originated by Ponce Financial are generally retained for portfolio, while loans originated by Mortgage World are sold to investors, including Ponce Bank. The Bank generally limits owner-occupied 1-4 family loans to loan-to-value (“LTV”) ratios of up to 80% for a refinance and 90% for a purchase. Investor-owned 1-4 family loans are generally originated up to a maximum LTV ratio of 70% on purchases and 65% on refinances. A minimum debt-coverage ratio of 1.2 times is required for investor owned 1-4 family loans. Adjustable rate loans offered by the Bank generally have repricing terms of 5/1 or 5/5 and are indexed to the comparable term FHLB of New York advance rate. As of March 31, 2021, the Company’s outstanding balance of 1-4 family loans equaled $417.9 million or 33.52% of total loans receivable and consisted of $317.9 million of investor-owned loans and $100.0 million of owner-occupied loans.

Home Equity Loans and Lines of Credit. Included in the Company’s 1-4 family loan portfolio are home equity loans and lines of credit, which totaled $11.1 million at March 31, 2021. Home equity loans are originated with comparable terms as 1-4 family permanent mortgage loans. Home equity lines of credit are tied to the prime rate as published in The Wall Street Journal and are offered for terms of a five-to-ten year draw period followed by a 15 year repayment period. The Bank will originate home equity loans and lines of credit up to a maximum LTV ratio of 75%, inclusive of other liens on the property.

Commercial Real Estate and Multi-Family Loans. Commercial real estate and multi-family loans consist largely of loans originated by the Company, which are collateralized by properties in the Company’s regional lending area. Ponce Financial generally originates commercial real estate and multi-family loans up to a LTV ratio of 75% (70% on the refinance of commercial real estate properties) and generally requires a minimum debt-coverage ratio of 1.2 times. In connection with the Covid-19 pandemic, the Company adopted temporary guidelines which lowered LTV ratios by 5% and increased debt coverage ratios by 10%. Currently, the Company still requires the higher debt coverage ratios, but no longer requires lower LTV ratios.


RP® Financial, LC.       OVERVIEW AND FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
      I.15

 

Commercial real estate and multi-family loans are originated with amortization terms of up to 30 years. Loan terms offered on commercial real estate and multi-family loans generally consist of adjustable rate loans, which are indexed to the 5-year FHLB of New York advance rate. Properties securing the commercial real estate and multi-family loan portfolio include office buildings, industrial and warehouses, retail and wholesale, apartments, churches, service, doctor, dentist, daycare and schools, restaurants, hotels and motels, medical, nursing homes and hospitals. At March 31, 2021, the Company’s largest commercial real estate loan had an outstanding balance of $10.9 million and was performing in accordance with its original terms. At March 31, 2021, the Company’s largest multi-family loan had an outstanding balance of $12.3 million and was performing in accordance with its original terms. As of March 31, 2021, the Company’s outstanding balance of commercial real estate and multi-family loans totaled $530.4 million equal to 42.55% of total loans outstanding and included $315.1 million of multi-family loans.

Construction Loans. Construction loans originated by the Company consist primarily of loans to finance the construction of multi-family properties and, to a lesser extent, to finance the construction of commercial properties and 1-4 family residences. Construction loans are generally offered as fixed rate interest only loans during the construction period, which is typically up to 24 months. Construction loans are generally offered up to a maximum LTV ratio of 65% of the appraised value of the completed property and a maximum loan-to-cost ratio of 70%. The Company’s 1-4 family construction lending activities consist of originations to professional developers, contractors and builders, and individuals. As of March 31, 2021, the Company’s outstanding balance of construction loans equaled $119.3 million or 9.57% of total loans receivable.

Commercial Business Loans. The commercial business loan portfolio is generated through extending loans to businesses operating in the local market area. Currently, most of the commercial business loans held in the Company’s loan portfolio consist of loans generated through the Payroll Protection Program (“PPP”). Expansion of commercial business lending activities is a desired area of loan growth for the Company, pursuant to which the Company is seeking to become a full service community bank to its commercial loan customers through offering a full range of commercial loan products that can be packaged with lower cost commercial deposit products. Commercial business loans offered by the Company consist of lines of credit and term loans, with terms of generally no more than seven years. Commercial business loans are typically indexed to The Wall Street Journal prime rate. The commercial business loan portfolio consists substantially of loans secured by business assets such as accounts receivable, inventory, equipment and real estate. As of March 31, 2021, the Company’s outstanding balance of commercial business loans equaled $142.1 million or 11.40% of total loans receivable and included $132.5 million of PPP loans.


RP® Financial, LC.       OVERVIEW AND FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
      I.16

 

Consumer Loans. Historically, consumer lending has been a very limited area of lending diversification for the Company, with such loans consisting of passbook loans and other secured and unsecured personal loans. In 2020, the Company entered into a consumer lending partnership with Grain Technologies, LLC. (“Grain”). Grain provides a line of credit using a mobile application generated nationally to the underbanked and new generations entering the financial services market that uses non-traditional underwriting methodologies. As of March 31, 2021, the Company held $36.7 million of consumer loans or 2.94% of total loans receivable and included $35.9 million of loans originated and serviced by the Company pursuant to its arrangement with Grain.

Exhibit I-11 provides a summary of Ponce Bank’s lending activities over the past five and one-quarter years. Total loans originated ranged from a low of $162.8 million during 2016 to a high of $372.8 million during 2020. The increase in loans originated was primarily realized through increased originations of commercial business loans, multi-family loans and construction loans. The increase in commercial business loan originations was driven by originations of PPP loans, as PPP loans accounted for $85.3 million of the $89.1 million of commercial business loans originated during 2020. Consumer loans originated under the Bank’s arrangement with Grain accounted for $25.5 million of the $26.0 million of consumer loans originated during 2020. The Bank did not purchase any loans over the past five and one-quarter years, while loans sold ranged from zero during 2016 to $6.8 million during 2018. Loan growth was recorded in each of past five years and in the first quarter of 2021, with net loan activity ranging from $36.3 million during 2019 to $206.0 million during 2020.

Asset Quality

Over the past five and one-quarter years, Ponce Financial’s balance of non-performing assets ranged from a low of $6.8 million or 0.64% of assets at December 31, 2018 to a high of $12.3 million or 0.86% of assets at March 31, 2021. As shown in Exhibit I-12, non-performing assets at March 31, 2021 consisted entirely of non-accruing loans. Loans secured by 1-4 family residences comprised the largest concentration of the non-accruing loan balance, with the second largest concentration consisting of loans secured by commercial properties.


RP® Financial, LC.       OVERVIEW AND FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
      I.17

 

To track the Company’s asset quality and the adequacy of valuation allowances, the Company has established detailed asset classification policies and procedures which are consistent with regulatory guidelines. Detailed asset classifications are reviewed on a regular basis by senior management and the Board. Pursuant to these procedures, when needed, the Company establishes additional valuation allowances to cover anticipated losses in classified or non-classified assets. As of March 31, 2021, the Company maintained loan loss allowances of $15.5 million, equal to 1.24% of total loans receivable and 126.07% of non-performing loans.

Funding Composition and Strategy

Deposits have consistently served as the Company’s primary funding source and at March 31, 2021 deposits accounted for 90.35% of Ponce Financial’s combined balance of deposits and borrowings. Exhibit I-13 sets forth the Company’s deposit composition for the past three and one-quarter years. Transaction and savings account deposits constituted 61.65% of average total deposits during the three months ended March 31, 2021, as compared to 41.68% of average total deposits during 2018. The increase in the concentration of core deposits comprising total deposits during the three months ended March 31, 2021 compared to during 2018 was due to growth of core deposits and a decline in CDs.

The balance of the Company’s deposits consists of CDs, which equaled 38.35% of average total deposits during the three months ended March 31, 2021 compared to 58.32% of average total deposits during 2018. Ponce Financial’s current CD composition reflects a higher concentration of short-term CDs (maturities of one year or less). The CD portfolio totaled $439.2 million at March 31, 2021 and 58.10% of the CDs were scheduled to mature in one year or less. Exhibit I-14 sets forth the maturity schedule of the Company’s CDs as of March 31, 2021. As of March 31, 2021, jumbo CDs (CD accounts with balances of $100,000 or more) amounted to $220.4 million or 50.18% of total CDs. The Company held $96.0 million of brokered CDs at March 31, 2021.

Borrowings serve as an alternative funding source for the Company to address funding needs for growth, funding Mortgage World’s operations and to support management of deposit costs and interest rate risk. As of March 31, 2021, the Company’s borrowings totaled $121.6 million and consisted of FHLB advances ($109.3 million), two warehouse lines of credit for purposes of funding Mortgage World’s origination and sale of loans ($11.7 million) and mortgage loan fundings payable ($676,000). Exhibit I-15 provides further detail of the Company’s borrowings activities during the past three and one-quarter years.


RP® Financial, LC.       OVERVIEW AND FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
      I.18

 

Subsidiaries

The Company has two subsidiaries, Ponce Bank and Mortgage World. The Bank maintains two subsidiaries:

Ponce de Leon Mortgage Corp. is a New York state chartered mortgage brokerage entity, whose employees are registered in New York and New Jersey.

PFS Services Corp. owned one of the Bank’s properties as of March 31, 2021.

Legal Proceedings

From time to time, the Company is involved in routine legal proceedings in the ordinary course of business. Such routine legal proceedings, in the aggregate, are believed by management to be immaterial to the Company’s financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.


RP® Financial, LC.       MARKET AREA
      II.1

 

II. MARKET AREA

Introduction

Headquartered in Bronx, New York, Ponce Financial serves the New York City metropolitan area through its headquarters office and 13 full service branch offices. The Company’s branch network covers a four-county market area in New York: Bronx County (4 branches), Queens County (3 branches), Kings County (3 branches) and New York County (2 branches). Ponce Financial also maintains one branch location in Hudson County, New Jersey. The New York City metropolitan also constitutes the primary market area for Mortgage World. In addition to its executive offices in Astoria, New York, Mortgage World maintains five office locations in the New York cities of Garden City, Brooklyn and Flushing and the New Jersey cities of Englewood Cliffs and Bergenfield. Exhibit II-1 provides information on the Company’s office facilities.

With operations in a major metropolitan area, the Company’s competitive environment includes a significant number of commercial banks, thrifts and other financial services companies, some of which have a regional or national presence. These institutions also have greater resources at their disposal than the Company. The New York metropolitan area has a highly developed economy, with a relatively high concentration of highly skilled workers who are employed in a number of different industry clusters including financial services, healthcare and technology.

Future growth opportunities for Ponce Financial depend on the future growth and stability of the local and regional economy, demographic growth trends, and the nature and intensity of the competitive environment. These factors have been briefly examined to help determine the growth potential that exists for the Company, the relative economic health of the Company’s market area, and the resultant impact on value.

National Economic Factors

The future success of the Company’s operations is partially dependent upon various national and local economic trends. In assessing national economic trends over the past few quarters, manufacturing activity for October 2020 expanded at its quickest pace in more than two years with an index reading of 59.3. Comparatively, October service sector activity declined to an index reading of 56.6. U.S. employers added 638,000 jobs in October and the October


RP® Financial, LC.       MARKET AREA
      II.2

 

unemployment rate dropped to 6.9%. October existing home sales rose to a 14-year high with an increase of 4.3% from September existing home sales, as low borrowing costs and a shift in living preferences during the pandemic fueled a surge in home purchases. November manufacturing and service activity slowed to respective index readings of 57.5 and 55.9. The U.S. economy added 245,000 jobs in November, which was less than expected, and the November unemployment rate dropped to 6.7%. November retail sales dropped 1.1%, amid a surge in coronavirus infections and new business restrictions. Existing home sales declined 2.5% in November, versus an 11.0% decline in November new home sales. Manufacturing activity for December accelerated to an index reading of 60.7, while service sector activity for December accelerated to an index reading of 57.2. U.S. payrolls for December declined by 140,000 which was the first decline since April. The December unemployment rate remained at 6.7%. Retail sales for December were down 0.7%. Existing and new home sales for December increased by 0.7% and 1.6%, respectively. Fourth quarter GDP increased at a 4.0% annualized rate, while GDP for all of 2020 contracted 3.5%.

January 2021 manufacturing activity slowed to an index reading of 58.7, while service sector activity for January accelerated to an index reading of 58.7. U.S. employers added 49,000 jobs in January and the January unemployment rate fell to 6.3%. January retail sales jumped 5.3%, as consumer spending was boosted by stimulus checks. January sales for new and existing homes increased by 4.3% and 0.6%, respectively. Manufacturing activity expanded in February to an index reading of 60.8, which was at a three-year high. Comparatively, February service sector activity slowed to an index reading of 55.3. The U.S. economy added 372,000 jobs in February, which was the most jobs added in four months, and the February unemployment rate dropped to 6.2%. February existing home sales dropped 6.6%, as a lack of housing supply limited home purchases. Likewise, tight inventories and record cold weather translated into new home sales falling 18.2% in February. March manufacturing activity surged to a 37-year high with an index reading of 64.7, while service sector activity for March rose to a record high index reading of 63.7. Stimulus checks, easing social distancing standards and administration of more Covid-19 vaccines helped to spur a 9.8% increase in retail sales for March. With the supply of existing home sales remaining tight, March existing home sales declined 3.7%. Comparatively, March new home sales surged 20.7%, which was the highest level since August 2006. First quarter GDP increased at a 6.4% annual rate.


RP® Financial, LC.       MARKET AREA
      II.3

 

Both manufacturing and service sector activity expanded at slower rates in April 2021, with respective readings of 60.7 and 62.7. U.S. employers added 266,000 jobs in April, which was well below expectations, and the April unemployment rate increased to 6.1%. Retail sales for April were unchanged from March retail sales. Existing and new home sales for April dropped 2.7% and 5.9%, respectively, as limited inventory and record high prices limited potential buyers. Initial weekly jobless claims fell to consecutive pandemic lows in the final two weeks of May, declining from 444,000 claims in the third week of May to 406,000 in the fourth week of May.

In terms of interest rates trends over the past few quarters, economic reports indicating the U.S. economy was continuing to improve and hopes of a new coronavirus relief deal pushed the 10-year Treasury yield above 0.75% in early-October 2020, which was followed by long-term Treasury yields stabilizing through mid-October. After increasing to a yield of 0.85% heading into late-October, the 10-year Treasury edged lower at the beginning of the last week of October as a surge in coronavirus cases added to worries about the economic outlook in the absence of a stimulus deal. Stronger-than-expected third quarter GDP growth pushed the 10-year Treasury yield up to 0.88% at the end of October. After edging lower with the release of the October employment report, long-term Treasury yields surged higher in the second week of November on news that a coronavirus vaccine being developed was 90% effective. Long-term Treasury yields edged lower going into the second half of November, as states implemented new lockdown measures amid a resurgence of coronavirus infections. Promising results for multiple Covid-19 vaccines and signs that U.S. lawmakers were committed to completing a new Covid-19 relief package contributed to long-term Treasury yields edging higher in early-December, which was followed by interest rates stabilizing for the balance of 2020. At its final meeting of the year in mid-December, the Federal Reserve left its benchmark rate at near zero and made no changes to its asset purchase program.

Interest rates remained stable at the start of 2021 and then edged higher following the Georgia Senate election run-offs in early-January, as the 10-year Treasury yield climbed above 1.0% on expectations that additional fiscal stimulus would be forthcoming with Democrats taking control of the Senate. The 10-year Treasury yield stabilized around 1.10% going into the last week of January and then edged lower at the end of January, amid concerns of delays in distribution of the Covid-19 vaccine and the ability to end lockdowns or other restrictions. The Federal Reserve concluded its late-January meeting leaving its benchmark rate near zero and keeping its easy money policies in place. Expectations of more stimulus pushed long-term


RP® Financial, LC.       MARKET AREA
      II.4

 

Treasury yields higher at the end of January and the first week of February, which provided for some steepening of the yield curve. With data pointing towards that the recovering U.S. economy was gaining traction, the upward trend in long-term Treasury yields continued through mid-March as the 10-year Treasury yield rose to its highest level in a year. The Federal Reserve concluded its mid-March meeting with no change in its target rate and vowed to maintain its easy monetary policies until the economy showed further recovery, while also highlighting an improved economic outlook. Long-term Treasury yields stabilized at the end of the first quarter, with the 10-year Treasury yield equaling 1.74% as of March 31, 2021.

Long-term Treasury yields edged lower during the first half of April 2021 and then settled into a narrow range for the balance of April. At the conclusion of its late-April meeting, the Federal Reserve held its key interest rate near zero and said it plans to continue to support the economic recovery, while acknowledging recent progress in growth and employment. The stable interest rate environment continued through the first full week of May, as markets reacted to April’s employment report which showed lower-than-expected job growth. Long-term Treasury yields edged higher heading into mid-May after data showed consumer prices surged in April, which was followed by long-term Treasury yields pulling back slightly through the end of May. As of June 1, 2021, the bond equivalent yields for U.S. Treasury bonds with terms of one and ten years equaled 0.04% and 1.62%, respectively, versus comparable year ago yields of 0.17% and 0.66%. Exhibit II-2 provides historical interest rate trends.

Based on the consensus outlook of economists surveyed by The Wall Street Journal in April 2021, GDP growth was projected to increase 6.4% in 2021 and then decrease to 3.2% in 2022. The U.S. unemployment rate was forecasted to equal 5.6% in June 2021 and then decrease to 4.8% in December 2021. An average of 547,000 jobs were projected to be added per month over the next four quarters. On average, the economists forecasted that the federal funds rate would equal 0.12% in June 2021 and then edge up to 0.16% in December 2021. On average, the economists forecasted that the 10-year Treasury yield would equal 1.77% in June 2021 and then increase to 1.93% in December 2021.

The May 2021 mortgage finance forecast from the Mortgage Bankers Association (the “MBA”) was for 2021 existing home sales to increase by 8.3% from 2020 sales and 2021 new home sales were forecasted to increase by 12.7% from sales in 2020. The 2021 median sale prices for existing and new homes were forecasted to increase by 3.1% and 1.5%, respectively. Total mortgage production was forecasted to decrease in 2021 to $3.400 trillion, compared to $3.828 trillion in 2020. The forecasted decrease in 2021 originations was based on a 15.6% increase in purchase volume and a 27.2% decrease in refinancing volume. Purchase mortgage originations were forecasted to total $1.656 trillion in 2021, versus refinancing volume totaling $1.744 trillion. Housing starts for 2021 were projected to increase by 12.6% to total 1.571 million.


RP® Financial, LC.       MARKET AREA
      II.5

 

Market Area Demographics

Demographic and economic growth trends, measured by changes in population, number of households, age distribution and median household income, provide key insight into the health of the market area served by Ponce Financial (see Table 2.1). The primary market area counties are densely populated markets, ranking among the largest populations in New Jersey and New York. Kings County (Brooklyn) has the largest population among the four primary market area counties and is the largest county in New York, followed by Queens County and New York County as the second and third largest counties in New York. Bronx County is the fifth largest county in New York and Hudson County is the fourth largest county in New Jersey. All five of primary market area counties served by Ponce Financial’s branches, as well as the state of New York, experienced population shrinkage during the 2016 to 2021 period. All four of the New York primary market area counties, as well as the state of New York, also recorded a decline in households during the past five years, while Hudson County recorded a slight increase in households during the past five years. Comparatively, annual population and household growth rates for the U.S. equaled 0.5% and 0.6%, respectively. The New York primary market area counties, as well as the state of New York, are projected to experience little change in population and households over the next five years, while Hudson County is projected to record population and household growth that will be slightly less than the comparable projected U.S. growth rates. Age distribution measures reflect that the primary market area counties have somewhat similarly-aged populations relative to the state of New York and the U.S.

Income measures show New York County is a relatively affluent market. Comparatively, income measures for Bronx County, which has a relatively broad socioeconomic spectrum, were well below the comparable state measures as well as the other four primary market area counties. Projected income growth rates for the primary market area counties were generally slightly stronger or consistent with the projected income growth rates for New York and the U.S., with the highest income growth rates projected for the counties of Hudson and Kings and the lowest income growth rates projected for the counties of New York and Bronx.


RP® Financial, LC.       MARKET AREA
      II.6

 

Table 2.1

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Summary Demographic Data

 

     Year      Growth Rate  
     2016      2021      2026      2016-2021     2021-2026  
                          (%)     (%)  

Population (000)

             

USA

     322,431        330,946        340,574        0.5     0.6

New York

     19,853        19,402        19,339        -0.5     -0.1

Bronx, NY

     1,456        1,415        1,415        -0.6     0.0

Kings, NY

     2,658        2,552        2,550        -0.8     0.0

New York, NY

     1,648        1,630        1,638        -0.2     0.1

Queens, NY

     2,352        2,243        2,231        -0.9     -0.1

Hudson, NJ

     679        675        686        -0.1     0.3

Households (000)

             

USA

     122,265        125,733        129,596        0.6     0.6

New York

     7,544        7,402        7,397        -0.4     0.0

Bronx, NY

     510        496        496        -0.6     0.0

Kings, NY

     982        950        954        -0.7     0.1

New York, NY

     797        789        794        -0.2     0.1

Queens, NY

     822        783        778        -1.0     -0.1

Hudson, NJ

     267        267        273        0.1     0.4

Median Household Income ($)

             

USA

     55,551        67,761        73,868        4.1     1.7

New York

     60,445        74,462        83,994        4.3     2.4

Bronx, NY

     33,942        43,015        47,779        4.9     2.1

Kings, NY

     49,716        68,871        79,563        6.7     2.9

New York, NY

     74,526        93,854        104,246        4.7     2.1

Queens, NY

     59,327        75,973        87,352        5.1     2.8

Hudson, NJ

     59,589        82,696        95,829        6.8     3.0

Per Capita Income ($)

             

USA

     30,002        37,689        41,788        4.7     2.1

New York

     34,045        43,801        49,170        5.2     2.3

Bronx, NY

     17,828        23,001        26,126        5.2     2.6

Kings, NY

     27,827        39,799        46,294        7.4     3.1

New York, NY

     63,858        80,041        86,845        4.6     1.6

Queens, NY

     27,453        36,387        41,948        5.8     2.9

Hudson, NJ

     33,956        49,580        57,450        7.9     3.0

2021 Age Distribution (%)

   0-14 Yrs.      15-34 Yrs.      35-54 Yrs.      55-69 Yrs.     70+ Yrs.  

USA

     18.3        26.8        25.1        18.4       11.4  

New York

     17.2        26.9        25.2        19.0       11.8  

Bronx, NY

     20.7        29.1        25.1        15.8       9.2  

Kings, NY

     19.8        28.5        26.2        15.7       9.9  

New York, NY

     12.6        31.5        27.3        16.5       12.2  

Queens, NY

     17.2        25.4        27.4        18.7       11.2  

Hudson, NJ

     18.1        30.2        28.3        15.0       8.4  

2021 HH Income Dist. (%)

   Less Than
25,000
     $25,000 to
50,000
     $50,000 to
100,000
     $100,000+        

USA

     18.0        20.3        29.0        32.7    

New York

     18.4        17.5        26.0        38.1    

Bronx, NY

     33.6        22.3        25.5        18.7    

Kings, NY

     22.4        17.6        23.9        36.2    

New York, NY

     19.8        12.7        19.8        47.7    

Queens, NY

     15.7        18.4        28.1        37.7    

Hudson, NJ

     17.0        15.9        24.9        42.2    

Source: S&P Global Market Intelligence


RP® Financial, LC.       MARKET AREA
      II.7

 

The relative affluence of New York County is further evidenced by a comparison of household income distribution measures, as New York County maintains a relatively high percentage of households with incomes over $100,000 relative to the U.S and New York. Comparatively, Bronx County maintains a relatively high percentage of households with incomes of less than $25,000 and a relatively low percentage of households with income over $100,000.

Local Economy

The markets served by the Company have large and diverse economies. Comparative employment data in Table 2.2 shows that employment in services constitutes the primary source of employment in all of the primary area counties with the exception of Bronx County. Jobs in the education/healthcare/social services sector were the largest source of employment in Bronx County, as well as the state of New York, and was the second largest employment sector in the other three New York primary market area counties. Finance/insurance/real estate jobs were the second largest source of jobs in Hudson County and service jobs were the second largest source of jobs for Bronx County and the state of New York. The prominence of Wall Street jobs on the primary market area economy is highlighted by the relatively high concentration of jobs that are in finance/insurance/real estate sector, with such jobs constituting the third largest employment for all of the New York primary market area counties and the state of New York.

Table 2.2

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Primary Market Area Employment Sectors

(Percent of Labor Force)

 

Employment Sector

   New York     Bronx
New York
    Kings
New York
    New York
New York
    Queens
New York
    Hudson
New Jersey
 
     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)  

Services

     26.3     25.0     28.3     34.0     27.3     28.7

Education, Healthcare, Soc. Serv.

     27.8     32.4     28.2     22.9     24.2     18.5

Government

     2.3     3.6     2.7     4.0     2.8     2.1

Wholesale/Retail Trade

     8.2     5.0     5.4     4.7     5.5     10.0

Finance/Insurance/Real Estate

     15.8     13.9     13.7     19.1     14.6     19.9

Manufacturing

     5.0     5.5     5.3     4.4     6.4     4.3

Construction

     5.7     4.9     5.1     2.0     7.5     5.3

Information

     2.9     1.5     4.4     6.2     2.5     3.5

Transportation/Utility

     5.6     8.1     6.8     2.7     9.1     7.4

Agriculture

     0.5     0.1     0.1     0.1     0.1     0.1
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
     100.0     100.0     100.0     100.0     100.0     100.0


RP® Financial, LC.       MARKET AREA
      II.8

 

The market area served by the Company, characterized primarily as the New York MSA, has a highly developed and diverse economy, Banking and professional services constitute major sources of employment in the Company’s market area. Tourism also is a prominent component of the market area’s economy, as New York City annually ranks as one of the nation’s top tourist destinations. Table 2.3 lists in detail the major employers in the New York metropolitan area.

Table 2.3

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Market Area Largest Employers

 

Employer

  

Industry

JP Morgan Chase & Co.    Banking
Citigroup Inc.    Banking
AMB Industries Inc.    Facility Mangaement
Pfizer Inc.    Pharmaceutical
Ichan Enterprises LP    Conglomerate
Philip Morris International Inc    Tobacco
Omnicom Group, Inc.    Communications
PwC    Professional Services
Alcoa Corporation    Industrial
Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc.    Professional Services

Source: Money Inc

Unemployment Trends

Comparative unemployment rates for the primary market area counties, as well as for the U.S, and New York, are shown in Table 2.4. May 2021 unemployment rates for the primary market area counties ranged from a low of 7.5% for New York County to a high of 13.5% for Bronx County. May 2021 unemployment rates for all of the primary market counties were higher than the comparable U.S. and New York unemployment rates of 5.5% and 6.9%, respectively. Pursuant to the ongoing economic recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic, May 2021 unemployment rates for all of the primary market area counties, the state of New York and the U.S. were lower compared to a year ago.


RP® Financial, LC.       MARKET AREA
      II.9

 

Table 2.4

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Unemployment Trends

 

Region

   Unemployment Rate     Net
Change
 
     May 2020     May 2021  

USA

     13.0     5.5     -7.5

New York

     15.7     6.9     -8.8

Bronx, NY

     24.6     13.5     -11.1

Kings, NY

     20.4     10.0     -10.4

New York, NY

     15.2     7.5     -7.7

Queens, NY

     21.8     9.7     -12.1

Hudson, NJ

     17.7     7.6     -10.1

Source: S&P Global Market Intelligence

Market Area Deposit Characteristics and Competition

The Company’s retail deposit base is closely tied to the New York metropolitan market area and, in particular, to the markets that are nearby to the Company’s branch locations. Table 2.5 displays deposit market trends from June 30, 2015 through June 30, 2020 for the primary market counties. Additional data is also presented for the state of New York. The data indicates that commercial banks gained deposit market share in all five of the primary market area counties during the five year period covered in Table 2.5. Similar to the states of New York, commercial banks maintained a significantly larger market share of deposits than savings institutions in all five of the Company’s primary market area counties.

Ponce Financial’s largest holding and highest market share of deposits is in Bronx County, where the Company is headquartered and maintains its largest branch presence. The Company’s $270.9 million of deposits at the Bronx County branches represented a 1.7% market share of bank and thrift deposits at June 30, 2020. The Company’s deposit market share in the remaining four counties was nominal, based on deposit market shares of 0.3% or less in those four counties.


RP® Financial, LC.       MARKET AREA
      II.10

 

Table 2.5

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Deposit Summary

 

     As of June 30,      Deposit
Growth Rate
2015-2020
 
     2015      2020  
            Market     No. of             Market     No. of  
     Deposits      Share     Branches      Deposits      Share     Branches  
     (Dollars in Thousands)      (%)  

New York

   $ 1,339,440,000        100.0     5,270      $ 2,141,550,000        100.0     4,634        9.8

Commercial Banks

     1,272,782,000        95.0     4,449        2,071,807,000        96.7     4,011        10.2

Savings Institutions

     66,658,000        5.0     813        69,743,000        3.3     623        0.9

Bronx

   $ 11,529,000        100.0     153      $ 15,746,000        100.0     140        6.4

Commercial Banks

     9,731,000        84.4     126        13,673,000        86.8     115        7.0

Savings Institutions

     1,798,000        15.6     27        2,073,000        13.2     25        2.9

Ponce Financial

     228,969        2.0     4        270,916        1.7     4        3.4

Kings

   $ 44,979,000        100.0     371      $ 67,774,000        100.0     358        8.5

Commercial Banks

     38,387,000        85.3     285        63,317,000        93.4     303        10.5

Savings Institutions

     6,592,000        14.7     86        4,457,000        6.6     55        -7.5

PDL Community Bancorp

     103,433        0.2     3        100,974        0.1     3        -0.5

New York

   $ 879,056,000        100.0     699      $ 1,485,790,000        100.0     632        11.1

Commercial Banks

     873,620,000        99.4     652        1,478,120,000        99.5     589        11.1

Savings Institutions

     5,436,000        0.6     40        7,670,000        0.5     36        7.1

Ponce Financial

     61,264        0.0     2        339,175        0.0     2        40.8

Queens

   $ 53,366,000        100.0     441      $ 71,649,000        100.0     404        6.1

Commercial Banks

     42,166,000        79.0     328        61,524,000        85.9     324        7.8

Savings Institutions

     11,200,000        21.0     113        10,125,000        14.1     80        -2.0

Ponce Financial

     168,997        0.3     3        200,313        0.3     3        3.5

Hudson, NJ

   $ 27,545,000        100.0     166      $ 43,327,000        100.0     155        9.5

Commercial Banks

     23,931,000        86.9     123        41,001,000        94.6     31        11.4

Savings Institutions

     3,614,000        13.1     43        2,326,000        5.4     124        -8.4

Ponce Financial

     35,593        0.1     1        40,671        0.1     1        2.7

Source: FDIC.

As implied by the Company’s low market shares of deposits, the Company faces significant competition. Among the Company’s competitors are much larger and more diversified institutions, which have greater resources than maintained by Ponce Financial. Financial institution competitors in the Company’s primary market area include other locally based thrifts and banks, as well as regional, super regional and money center banks. Table 2.6 lists the Company’s largest competitors in the five counties currently served by its branches, based on deposit market share.


RP® Financial, LC.       MARKET AREA
      II.11

 

Table 2.6

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Market Area Deposit Competitors - As of June 30, 2020

 

Location

  

Name

  

Market Share

    

Rank

 
          (%)         

Bronx County

  

JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NY)

     37.82     
  

Citigroup Inc. (NY)

     16.45     
  

Apple Financial Holdings Inc. (NY)

     7.93     
  

The Toronto-Dominion Bank

     6.57     
  

Capital One Financial Corp. (VA)

     6.20     
  

Ponce Financial

     1.72        12 of 24  

Kings County

  

JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NY)

     33.31     
  

Citigroup Inc. (NY)

     10.71     
  

Banco Santander S.A.

     8.31     
  

The Toronto-Dominion Bank

     7.80     
  

Signature Bank (NY)

     6.93     
  

Ponce Financial

     0.15        28 of 41  

New York County

  

JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NY)

     48.85     
  

The Bank New York Mellon (NY)

     13.35     
  

HSBC Holdings plc

     8.82     
  

Bank of America Corporation (NC)

     7.19     
  

Citigroup Inc. (NY)

     5.72     
  

Ponce Financial

     0.03        46 of 85  

Queens County

  

JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NY)

     27.91     
  

Citigroup Inc. (NY)

     13.80     
  

The Toronto-Dominion Bank

     8.06     
  

Capital One Financial Corp. (VA)

     7.56     
  

New York Community Bancorp (NY)

     5.53     
  

Ponce Financial

     0.28        35 of 55  

Hudson County

  

Bank of America Corporation (NC)

     58.65     
  

JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NY)

     8.79     
  

The Toronto-Dominion Bank

     5.02     
  

Capital One Financial Corp. (VA)

     3.21     
  

BCB Bancorp Inc. (NJ)

     2.70     
  

Ponce Financial

     0.09        24 of 27  

Source: S&P Global Market Intelligence


RP® Financial, LC.       PEER GROUP ANALYSIS
      III.1

 

III. PEER GROUP ANALYSIS

This chapter presents an analysis of Ponce Financial’s operations versus a group of comparable savings institutions (the “Peer Group”) selected from the universe of all publicly-traded savings institutions in a manner consistent with the regulatory valuation guidelines. The basis of the pro forma market valuation of Ponce Financial is derived from the pricing ratios of the Peer Group institutions, incorporating valuation adjustments for key differences in relation to the Peer Group. Since no Peer Group can be exactly comparable to Ponce Financial, key areas examined for differences are: financial condition; profitability, growth and viability of earnings; asset growth; primary market area; dividends; liquidity of the shares; marketing of the issue; management; and effect of government regulations and regulatory reform.

Peer Group Selection

The Peer Group selection process is governed by the general parameters set forth in the regulatory valuation guidelines. Accordingly, the Peer Group is comprised of only those publicly-traded savings institutions whose common stock is either listed on the NYSE or NASDAQ, since their stock trading activity is regularly reported and generally more frequent than non-publicly traded and closely-held institutions. Institutions that are not listed on the NYSE or NASDAQ are inappropriate, since the trading activity for thinly-traded or closely-held stocks are typically highly irregular in terms of frequency and price and thus may not be a reliable indicator of market value. We have also excluded from the Peer Group those companies under acquisition or subject to rumored acquisition, mutual holding companies and recent conversions, since their pricing ratios are subject to unusual distortion and/or have limited trading history. A recent listing of the universe of all publicly-traded savings institutions is included as Exhibit III-1.

Ideally, the Peer Group, which must have at least 10 members to comply with the regulatory valuation guidelines, should be comprised of locally- or regionally-based institutions with comparable resources, strategies and financial characteristics. There are approximately 42 fully-converted, publicly-traded institutions nationally and, thus, it is typically the case that the Peer Group will be comprised of institutions with relatively comparable characteristics. To the extent that differences exist between the converting institution and the Peer Group, valuation adjustments will be applied to account for the differences. Since Ponce Financial will be a full public company upon completion of the offering, we considered only full public companies to be viable candidates for inclusion in the Peer Group. From the universe of publicly-traded thrifts, we selected ten institutions with characteristics similar to those of Ponce Financial. In the selection process, we applied two “screens” to the universe of all public companies that were eligible for consideration:


RP® Financial, LC.       PEER GROUP ANALYSIS
      III.2

 

   

Screen #1 Mid-Atlantic and New England institutions with assets between $725 million and $3.0 billion, tangible equity/assets ratios of greater than 8.0% and positive core earnings. Nine companies met the criteria for Screen #1 and seven were included in the Peer Group: ESSA Bancorp, Inc. of Pennsylvania, Hingham Institution for Savings of Massachusetts, PCSB Financial Corporation of New York, Provident Bancorp, Inc. of Massachusetts, Prudential Bancorp, Inc. of Pennsylvania, Randolph Bancorp, Inc. of Massachusetts and Western New England Bancorp, Inc. of Massachusetts. Severn Bancorp, Inc. of Maryland was excluded from the Peer Group, as the result of being the target of an announced acquisition. William Penn Bancorp of Pennsylvania was excluded from the Peer Group, as the result of completing its second-step stock offering within the past year. Exhibit III-2 provides financial and public market pricing characteristics of all publicly-traded Mid-Atlantic and New England thrifts.

 

   

Screen #2 Midwest institutions with assets between $725 million and $3.0 billion, tangible equity/assets ratios of greater than 8.0% and positive core earnings. Three companies met the criteria for Screen #2 and all three were included in the Peer Group: IF Bancorp, Inc. of Illinois, HMN Financial, Inc. of Minnesota and Waterstone Financial, Inc. of Wisconsin. Exhibit III-3 provides financial and public market pricing characteristics of all publicly-traded Midwest thrifts.

Table 3.1 shows the general characteristics of each of the ten Peer Group companies and Exhibit III-4 provides summary demographic and deposit market share data for the primary market areas served by each of the Peer Group companies. While there are expectedly some differences between the Peer Group companies and Ponce Financial, we believe that the Peer Group companies, on average, provide a good basis for valuation subject to valuation adjustments. The following sections present a comparison of Ponce Financial’s financial condition, income and expense trends, loan composition, interest rate risk and credit risk versus the Peer Group as of the most recent publicly available date. Comparative data for all publicly-traded thrifts has been included in the Chapter III tables as well.

In addition to the selection criteria used to identify the Peer Group companies, a summary description of the key comparable characteristics of each of the Peer Group companies relative to Ponce Financial’s characteristics is detailed below.

 

   

ESSA Bancorp, Inc. of Pennsylvania. Comparable due to similar impact of loan loss provisions on earnings, similar concentrations of 1-4 family loans, commercial real estate loans and commercial business loans as a percent of assets and similar ratio of non-performing assets as a percent of assets.


RP® Financial, LC.       Peer Group Analysis
      Page III.3

 

Table 3.1

Peer Group of Publicly-Traded Thrifts

As of March 31, 2021 or the Most Recent Date Available

 

                                                        As of
June 1, 2021
 
                              Total             Fiscal    Conv.      Stock      Market  

Ticker

  

Financial Institution

   Exchange    Region    City   

State

   Assets      Offices      Mth End    Date      Price      Value  
                              ($Mil)                         ($)      ($Mil)  

ESSA

   ESSA Bancorp, Inc.    NASDAQGS    MA    Stroudsburg    PA    $ 1,970        23      Sep      4/3/2007      $ 16.01      $ 161  

HIFS

   Hingham Institution for Savings    NASDAQGM    NE    Hingham    MA    $ 2,844        9      Dec      12/13/1988      $ 295.74      $ 634  

HMNF

   HMN Financial, Inc.    NASDAQGM    MW    Rochester    MN    $ 971        14      Dec      6/30/1994      $ 20.74      $ 95  

IROQ

   IF Bancorp, Inc.    NASDAQCM    MW    Watseka    IL    $ 745        8      Jun      7/7/2011      $ 22.59      $ 69  

PCSB

   PCSB Financial Corporation    NASDAQCM    MA    Yorktown
Heigh
   NY    $ 1,855        16      Jun      4/20/2017      $ 18.32      $ 273  

PVBC

   Provident Bancorp, Inc.    NASDAQCM    NE    Amesbury    MA    $ 1,552        7      Dec      7/15/2015      $ 16.39      $ 275  

PBIP

   Prudential Bancorp, Inc.    NASDAQGM    MA    Philadelphia    PA    $ 1,204        10      Sep      3/29/2005      $ 13.90      $ 109  

RNDB

   Randolph Bancorp, Inc.    NASDAQGM    NE    Stoughton    MA    $ 738        5      Dec      7/1/2016      $ 22.32      $ 110  

WSBF

   Waterstone Financial, Inc.    NASDAQGS    MW    Wauwatosa    WI    $ 2,198        16      Dec      10/4/2005      $ 19.95      $ 476  

WNEB

   Western New England Bancorp, Inc.    NASDAQGS    NE    Westfield    MA    $ 2,464        27      Dec      12/27/2001      $ 8.46      $ 208  

Source: S&P Global Market Intelligence.


RP® Financial, LC.       PEER GROUP ANALYSIS
      III.4

 

   

Hingham Institution for Savings of Massachusetts. Comparable due to similar interest-earning asset composition, similar concentrations of deposits and borrowings funding assets, similar net interest income to average assets ratio and similar concentration of multi-family loans as a percent of assets.

 

   

HMN Financial, Inc. of Minnesota. Comparable due to similar size of branch network, similar impact of loan loss provisions on earnings and similar concentration of commercial business loans as a percent of assets.

 

   

IF Bancorp, Inc. of Illinois. Comparable due to similar concentrations of deposits and borrowings funding assets, similar earnings contribution from sources of non-interest operating income and similar concentration of commercial real estate loans as a percent of assets.

 

   

PCSB Financial Corporation of New York. Comparable due to New York MSA market area, similar size of branch network, similar concentrations of deposits and borrowings funding assets and similar return on average assets ratio.

 

   

Provident Bancorp, Inc. of Massachusetts. Comparable due to completed second-step offering in 2019, similar asset size, similar interest-earning asset composition, similar concentration of deposits funding assets, similar impact of loan loss provisions on earnings and similar ratio of non-performing assets as a percent of assets.

 

   

Prudential Bancorp, Inc. Pennsylvania. Comparable due to completed second-step conversion in 2013, similar size of branch network, similar asset size, similar return on average assets ratio, similar impact of loan loss provisions on earnings, similar concentration of commercial real estate loans as a percent of assets and similar ratio of non-performing assets as a percent of assets.

 

   

Randolph Bancorp, Inc. of Massachusetts. Comparable due to similar concentrations of deposits and borrowings funding assets, similar impact of loan loss provisions on earnings, similar concentration of commercial real estate loans as a percent of assets and similar ratio of non-performing assets as a percent of assets.

 

   

Waterstone Financial, Inc. of Wisconsin. Comparable due to completed second-step conversion in 2014, similar size of branch network, similar impact of loan loss provisions on earnings and similar concentrations of 1-4 family loans, multi-family loans and commercial real estate loans as a percent of assets.

 

   

Western New England Bancorp, Inc. of Massachusetts. Similar return on average assets ratio, similar impact of loan loss provisions on earnings and similar concentration of 1-4 family loans as a percent of assets.

In aggregate, the Peer Group companies maintained a slightly higher level of tangible equity compared to the industry average (12.34% of assets versus 11.52% for all public companies), generated higher earnings as a percent of average assets (1.57% core ROAA versus 1.08% for all public companies) and earned a higher ROE (11.79% core ROE versus 8.76% for all public companies). Overall, the Peer Group’s average P/TB ratio and average core P/E multiple were below the respective averages for all publicly-traded thrifts.


RP® Financial, LC.       PEER GROUP ANALYSIS
      III.5

 

 

     All        
     Publicly-Traded     Peer Group  

Financial Characteristics (Averages)

   $ 4,625     $ 1,654  

Assets ($Mil)

    

Market capitalization ($Mil)

   $ 647     $ 237  

Tangible equity/assets (%)

     11.52     12.34

Core return on average assets (%)

     1.08       1.57  

Core return on average equity (%)

     8.76       11.79  

Pricing Ratios (Averages)(1)

    

Core price/earnings (x)

     14.28x       13.00x  

Price/tangible book (%)

     126.45       114.62

Price/assets (%)

     14.24       14.31  

(1) As of June 1, 2021.

Ideally, the Peer Group companies would be comparable to Ponce Financial in terms of all of the selection criteria, but the universe of publicly-traded thrifts does not provide for an appropriate number of such companies. However, in general, the companies selected for the Peer Group were fairly comparable to Ponce Financial, as will be highlighted in the following comparative analysis. Comparative data for all publicly-traded thrifts has been included in the Chapter III tables as well.

Financial Condition

Table 3.2 shows comparative balance sheet measures for Ponce Financial and the Peer Group, reflecting the expected similarities and some differences given the selection procedures outlined above. The Company’s and the Peer Group’s ratios reflect balances as of March 31, 2021. Ponce Financial’s equity-to-assets ratio of 11.24% was below the Peer Group’s average net worth ratio of 12.58%. The Company’s pro forma capital position will increase with the addition of stock proceeds, which will provide the Company with an equity-to-assets ratio that exceeds the Peer Group’s ratio. Tangible equity-to-assets ratios for the Company and the Peer Group equaled 11.24% and 12.34%, respectively. The increase in Ponce Financial’s pro forma capital position will be favorable from a risk perspective and in terms of future earnings potential that could be realized through leverage and lower funding costs. At the same time, the Company’s higher pro forma capitalization will initially depress return on equity. Both Ponce Financial’s and the Peer Group’s capital ratios reflected capital surpluses with respect to the regulatory capital requirements.


RP® Financial, LC.       Peer Group Analysis
      Page III.6

 

Table 3.2

Balance Sheet Composition and Growth Rates

Comparable Institution Analysis

As of March 31, 2021

 

               Balance Sheet as a Percent of Assets     Balance Sheet Annual Growth Rates     Regulatory Capital  
               Cash &     MBS &           Net           Borrowed     Sub.     Total     Goodwill     Tangible          

MBS,

Cash

                Borrows.     Total     Tangible     Tier 1      Tier 1     

Risk-

Based

 
               Equival.     Invest     BOLI     Loans (1)     Deposits     Funds     Debt     Equity     &
Intang
    Equity     Assets     Invests     Loans     Deposits     &
Subdebt
    Equity     Equity     Leverage      Risk-
Based
     Capital  

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

   NY                                           

March 31, 2021

        6.29     2.70     0.00     86.78     79.41     8.48     0.00     11.24     0.00     11.24     24.57     -1.64     27.74     37.22     -20.15     3.51     3.51     10.78      14.54      15.80

All Non-MHC Public Thrifts

                                             

Averages

        11.26     14.72     1.57     69.02     77.40     8.02     0.44     12.83     0.91     11.52     16.15     62.27     7.09     23.49     -18.40     12.60     14.69     11.25      15.91      17.44

Medians

        9.42     12.25     1.71     70.11     79.26     5.10     0.00     11.61     0.32     10.57     12.77     55.30     6.07     22.92     -18.23     4.59     5.10     10.67      13.47      15.48

Comparable Group

                                             

Averages

        9.09     13.54     1.71     72.90     78.51     7.43     0.00     12.58     0.23     12.34     10.00     42.95     6.00     22.14     -42.53     8.24     8.30     11.35      16.04      17.13

Medians

        8.79     9.94     1.63     72.96     81.37     5.13     0.00     11.02     0.06     11.02     9.16     35.63     5.35     21.02     -37.26     3.83     4.01     10.73      15.69      16.94

Comparable Group

                                             

ESSA

   ESSA Bancorp, Inc.    PA      15.79     8.69     1.88     70.45     88.34     0.34     0.00     10.08     0.73     9.35     0.75     -3.04     2.18     31.07     -98.33     2.55     2.91     9.62      12.65      13.86

HIFS

   Hingham Institution for Savings    MA      7.54     2.92     0.45     88.18     79.94     8.69     0.00     10.84     0.00     10.84     7.14     3.18     8.08     32.73     -63.51     24.03     24.03     10.96      13.47      14.24

HMNF

   HMN Financial, Inc.    MN      11.88     18.59     0.00     66.82     88.08     0.31     0.00     10.82     0.09     10.73     23.86     114.89     4.26     26.27     -21.11     10.55     10.76     10.00      13.97      15.22

IROQ

   IF Bancorp, Inc.    IL      4.80     24.14     1.24     67.67     82.80     4.52     0.00     11.20     0.00     11.20     8.95     30.55     2.01     15.78     -45.56     5.10     5.10     11.24      NA        NA  

PCSB

   PCSB Financial Corporation    NY      9.13     19.04     1.37     68.00     78.41     5.73     0.00     14.63     0.34     14.29     9.36     30.44     3.32     13.65     -9.69     -0.41     -0.39     12.76      17.72      18.33

PVBC

   Provident Bancorp, Inc.    MA      8.56     2.29     2.38     84.29     82.82     1.16     0.00     15.09     0.00     15.09     22.53     120.88     15.84     43.84     -86.14     0.64     0.64     9.99      18.77      20.02

PBIP

   Prudential Bancorp, Inc.    PA      11.41     32.15     2.73     51.57     65.92     21.01     0.00     10.82     0.53     10.29     -4.99     -17.39     8.52     8.51     -28.97     -1.50     -1.50     10.49      16.55      17.74

RNDB

   Randolph Bancorp, Inc.    MA      7.44     7.82     1.17     79.27     75.90     8.13     0.00     13.66     0.00     13.66     13.07     40.71     9.37     10.94     15.40     27.74     27.77     12.15      15.69      16.94

WSBF

   Waterstone Financial, Inc.    WI      9.03     8.60     2.91     75.47     55.49     22.66     0.00     19.59     0.03     19.57     6.87     52.78     0.00     12.30     -6.10     15.83     15.87     17.44      22.93      24.01

WNEB

   Western New England Bancorp, Inc.    MA      5.36     11.20     2.98     77.27     87.44     1.74     0.00     9.05     0.62     8.42     12.47     56.50     6.45     26.27     -81.29     -2.17     -2.16     8.81      12.60      13.85

 

(1)

Includes loans held for sale.

 

Source:

S&P Global Market Intelligence and RP® Financial, LC. calculations. The information provided in this table has been obtained from sources we believe are reliable, but we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of such information.

Copyright (c) 2021 by RP® Financial, LC.


RP® Financial, LC.       PEER GROUP ANALYSIS
      III.7

 

The interest-earning asset compositions for the Company and the Peer Group were somewhat similar, with loans constituting the largest concentration of interest-earning assets for both Ponce Financial and the Peer Group. The Company’s loans-to-assets ratio of 86.78% was higher than the comparable Peer Group ratio of 72.90%. Comparatively, the Company’s cash and investments-to-assets ratio of 8.99% was lower than the comparable Peer Group ratio of 22.63%. Overall, Ponce Financial’s interest-earning assets amounted to 95.77% of assets, which approximated the comparable Peer Group ratio of 95.53%. The Peer Group’s non-interest earning assets included bank-owned life insurance (“BOLI”) equal to 1.71% of assets and goodwill/intangibles equal to 0.23% of assets, while the Company maintained zero balances for both BOLI and goodwill/intangibles.

Ponce Financial’s funding liabilities reflected a funding composition that was somewhat similar to that of the Peer Group’s funding composition. The Company’s deposits equaled 79.41% of assets, which was slightly above the Peer Group’s ratio of 78.51%. The Company also maintained a slightly higher level of borrowings than the Peer Group, as indicated by borrowings-to-assets ratios of 8.48% and 7.43% for Ponce Financial and the Peer Group, respectively. Total interest-bearing liabilities maintained by the Company and the Peer Group, as a percent of assets, equaled 87.89% and 85.94%, respectively.

A key measure of balance sheet strength for a thrift institution is its interest-earning assets/interest-bearing liabilities (“IEA/IBL”) ratio. Presently, the Company’s IEA/IBL ratio is lower than the Peer Group’s ratio, based on IEA/IBL ratios of 108.97% and 111.16%, respectively. The additional capital realized from stock proceeds should serve to provide Ponce Financial with an IEA/IBL ratio that exceeds the Peer Group’s ratio, as the increase in capital provided by the infusion of stock proceeds will serve to lower the level of interest-bearing liabilities funding assets and will be primarily deployed into interest-earning assets.

The growth rate section of Table 3.2 shows annual growth rates for key balance sheet items. Ponce Financial’s and the Peer Group’s growth rates are based on annual growth for the twelve months ended March 31, 2021. Ponce Financial recorded a 24.57% increase in assets, versus asset growth of 10.00% recorded by the Peer Group. Asset growth for Ponce Financial included a 27.74% increase in loans, which was in part funded by a 1.64% decline in cash and investments. Asset growth for the Peer Group included a 6.00% increase in loans and a 42.95% increase in cash and investments.


RP® Financial, LC.       PEER GROUP ANALYSIS
      III.8

 

A 37.22% increase in deposits funded the Company’s asset growth, as well as a 20.15% reduction in borrowings. Similarly, asset growth for the Peer Group was funded through deposit growth of 22.14%, which also funded a 42.53% reduction in the Peer Group’s borrowings. The Company’s tangible capital increased by 3.51%, which was less the Peer Group’s tangible capital growth rate of 8.30%. The Company’s post-conversion capital growth rate will initially be constrained by maintenance of a higher pro forma capital position. Additionally, implementation of any stock repurchases and initiation of any dividend payments, pursuant to regulatory limitations and guidelines, could also slow the Company’s capital growth rate in the longer term following the stock offering.

Income and Expense Components

Table 3.3 displays statements of operations for the Company and the Peer Group. The Company’s and the Peer Group’s ratios are based on earnings for the twelve months ended March 31, 2021. Ponce Financial and the Peer Group reported net income to average assets ratios of 0.59% and 1.62%, respectively. Higher ratios of net interest income and non-operating income represented earnings advantages for the Company, while a higher ratio of non-interest operating income and a lower operating expense ratio represented earnings advantages for the Peer Group.

The Company’s higher net interest income to average assets ratio was realized through a higher interest income ratio, which was facilitated by a higher yield earned on interest-earning assets (4.59% versus 3.67% for the Peer Group). Likewise, the Peer Group’s lower interest expense ratio was facilitated by a lower cost of funds (0.87% versus 1.16% for the Company). Overall, Ponce Financial and the Peer Group reported net interest income to average assets ratios of 3.54% and 2.85%, respectively.

In another key area of core earnings strength, the Company maintained a higher level of operating expenses than the Peer Group. For the period covered in Table 3.3, the Company and the Peer Group reported operating expense to average assets ratios of 3.90% and 3.13%, respectively. The Peer Group’s lower operating expense ratio was in part realized through maintaining a comparatively lower number of employees relative to its asset size. Assets per full time equivalent employee equaled $7.708 million for the Company, versus $10.211 million for the Peer Group.

When viewed together, net interest income and operating expenses provide considerable insight into a thrift’s earnings strength, since those sources of income and expenses are typically the most prominent components of earnings and are generally more predictable than losses and gains realized from the sale of assets or other non-recurring


RP® Financial, LC.       Peer Group Analysis
      Page III.9

 

Table 3.3

Income as Percent of Average Assets and Yields, Costs, Spreads

Comparable Institution Analysis

For the 12 Months Ended March 31, 2021 or the Most Recent 12 Months Available

 

                     Net Interest Income           Non-Interest Income           NonOp Items           Yields, Costs, and Spreads               
                                       Loss     NII     Gain     Other     Total                 Provision                       MEMO:      MEMO:  
               Net                       Provis.     After     on Sale of     Non-Int     Non-Int     Net Gains/     Extrao.     for     Yield     Cost     Yld-Cost     Assets/      Effective  
               Income     Income     Expense     NII     on IEA     Provis.     Loans     Income     Expense     Losses (1)     Items     Taxes     On IEA     Of IBL     Spread     FTE Emp.      Tax Rate  
               (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     ($000)      (%)  

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

   NY                                    

March 31, 2021

        0.59     4.37     0.83     3.54     0.16     3.38     0.44     0.48     3.90     0.38     0.00     0.18     4.59     1.16     3.43   $ 7,708        23.61

All Non-MHC Public Thrifts

                                      

Averages

        1.04     3.50     0.61     2.90     0.18     2.70     1.01     0.39     2.71     0.04     0.00     0.31     3.73     0.82     2.91   $ 8,749        22.35

Medians

        0.83     3.41     0.55     2.79     0.15     2.65     0.08     0.38     2.45     0.00     0.00     0.25     3.66     0.76     2.87   $ 7,592        22.84

Comparable Group

                                      

Averages

        1.62     3.50     0.65     2.85     0.15     2.69     2.19     0.31     3.13     0.08     0.00     0.52     3.67     0.87     2.80   $ 10,211        23.08

Medians

        0.94     3.43     0.58     2.73     0.20     2.60     0.08     0.32     2.32     0.01     0.00     0.36     3.61     0.73     2.70   $ 7,963        23.58

Comparable Group

                                      

ESSA

   ESSA Bancorp, Inc.    PA      0.83     3.13     0.52     2.60     0.22     2.39     0.14     0.46     2.01     0.03     0.00     0.18     3.30     0.72     2.58   $ 7,997        17.79

HIFS

   Hingham Institution for Savings    MA      2.36     3.88     0.54     3.34     0.05     3.28     0.00     0.04     0.79     0.70     0.00     0.87     3.94     0.68     3.26   $ 33,859        26.86

HMNF

   HMN Financial, Inc.    MN      1.38     3.58     0.27     3.31     0.19     3.13     1.14     0.61     2.97     0.01     0.00     0.54     3.69     0.43     3.26   $ 5,955        28.27

IROQ

   IF Bancorp, Inc.    IL      0.79     3.42     0.70     2.72     0.01     2.71     0.23     0.57     2.47     0.06     0.00     0.31     3.53     0.88     2.65   $ 6,902        27.93

PCSB

   PCSB Financial Corporation    NY      0.67     3.22     0.63     2.59     -0.02     2.61     0.00     0.17     1.93     0.01     0.00     0.18     3.36     0.88     2.48   $ 11,296        21.61

PVBC

   Provident Bancorp, Inc.    MA      1.05     4.34     0.34     4.00     0.23     3.77     0.00     0.25     2.44     -0.12     0.00     0.41     4.54     0.63     3.91   $ 9,519        27.96

PBIP

   Prudential Bancorp, Inc.    PA      0.64     3.21     1.37     1.84     0.20     1.64     0.02     0.17     1.38     0.28     0.00     0.08     3.40     1.62     1.78   $ 12,286        11.29

RNDB

   Randolph Bancorp, Inc.    MA      3.49     3.27     0.53     2.74     0.23     2.52     8.16     0.46     6.57     -0.07     0.00     1.00     3.48     0.73     2.75   $ 3,765        22.29

WSBF

   Waterstone Financial, Inc.    WI      4.40     3.51     1.01     2.51     0.20     2.30     12.19     0.00     8.51     -0.13     0.00     1.46     3.79     1.39     2.40   $ 2,603        24.87

WNEB

   Western New England Bancorp, Inc.    MA      0.62     3.45     0.61     2.84     0.24     2.60     0.01     0.40     2.20     0.00     0.00     0.18     3.69     0.72     2.97   $ 7,929        21.94

 

(1)

Net gains/losses includes gain/loss on sale of securities and nonrecurring income and expense.

 

Source:

S&P Global Market Intelligence and RP ® Financial, LC. calculations. The information provided in this table has been obtained from sources we believe are reliable, but we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of such information.

Copyright (c) 2021 by RP® Financial, LC.


RP® Financial, LC.       PEER GROUP ANALYSIS
      III.10

 

activities. In this regard, as measured by their expense coverage ratios (net interest income divided by operating expenses), the Company’s earnings were the same as the Peer Group’s earnings. Expense coverage ratios for Ponce Financial and the Peer Group both equaled 0.91x.

Sources of non-interest operating income provided a larger contribution to the Peer Group’s earnings, with such income amounting to 0.92% and 2.50% of Ponce Financial’s and the Peer Group’s average assets, respectively. Taking non-interest operating income into account in comparing the Company’s and the Peer Group’s earnings, Ponce Financial’s efficiency ratio (operating expenses, as a percent of the sum of non-interest operating income and net interest income) of 87.44% was less favorable than the Peer Group’s efficiency ratio of 58.50%.

Loan loss provisions had a similar impact on the Company’s and the Peer Group’s earnings, as loan loss provisions established by the Company and the Peer Group equaled 0.16% and 0.15% of average assets, respectively

The Company and the Peer Group recorded net non-operating gains equal to 0.38% and 0.08% of average assets, respectively. Typically, gains and losses generated from the sale of assets and other non-operating activities are viewed as earnings with a relatively high degree of volatility, and, thus, are not considered to be part of an institution’s core earnings. Extraordinary items were not a factor in either the Company’s or the Peer Group’s earnings.

The Company recorded an effective tax rate of 23.61%, which approximated the Peer Group’s effective tax rate of 23.08%. As indicated in the prospectus, the Company’s effective marginal tax rate is equal to 23.00%.

Loan Composition

Table 3.4 presents data related to the Company’s and the Peer Group’s loan portfolio compositions (including the investment in mortgage-backed securities). In comparison to the Peer Group, the Company’s loan portfolio composition reflected a slightly lower combined concentration of 1-4 family permanent mortgage loans and mortgage-backed securities (31.22% of assets versus 34.32% for the Peer Group), as the Peer Group’s higher concentration of mortgage-backed securities was partially offset by the Company’s higher concentration of 1-4 family loans. Loan servicing intangibles constituted a more significant balance sheet item for


RP® Financial, LC.       Peer Group Analysis
      Page III.11

 

Table 3.4

Loan Portfolio Composition and Related Information

Comparable Institution Analysis

As of March 31, 2021

 

            Portfolio Composition as a Percent of Assets  
                 MBS     1-4     Constr.     Multi-           Commerc.           RWA/     Servicing  
           

 

    Family     & Land     Family     Comm RE     Business     Consumer     Assets     Assets  
            (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     ($000)  

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

     NY                     

March 31, 2021

        1.12     30.10     8.32     21.98     15.02     9.91     2.56     70.12   $ 0  

All Non-MHC Public Thrifts

                     

Averages

        8.52     26.30     3.73     11.09     16.71     9.85     2.22     67.10   $ 2,951  

Medians

        6.73     23.92     2.66     5.60     15.14     6.52     0.18     69.32   $ 167  

Comparable Group

                     

Averages

        8.58     25.74     4.60     9.90     21.10     11.73     0.59     69.22   $ 2,844  

Medians

        7.64     23.51     4.00     5.81     21.33     7.87     0.22     69.41   $ 413  

Comparable Group

                     

ESSA

   ESSA Bancorp, Inc.      PA        3.89     33.95     4.42     5.77     16.59     9.31     1.28     NA     $ 639  

HIFS

   Hingham Institution for Savings      MA        0.00     36.14     5.37     22.86     24.11     0.30     0.01     80.50   $ 0  

HMNF

   HMN Financial, Inc.      MN        13.74     17.77     4.54     4.48     29.93     9.27     1.87     68.68   $ 3,114  

IROQ

   IF Bancorp, Inc.      IL        21.30     16.69     3.38     14.20     19.47     13.77     1.01     NA     $ 930  

PCSB

   PCSB Financial Corporation      NY        10.80     13.91     0.81     10.79     35.61     6.48     0.02     70.13   $ 0  

PVBC

   Provident Bancorp, Inc.      MA        0.95     3.13     2.41     2.82     23.39     53.51     0.26     52.64   $ 0  

PBIP

   Prudential Bancorp, Inc.      PA        15.47     17.53     14.46     4.36     12.39     3.49     0.04     61.81   $ 0  

RNDB

   Randolph Bancorp, Inc.      MA        5.46     54.49     4.06     1.84     15.33     3.24     1.19     77.30   $ 14,744  

WSBF

   Waterstone Financial, Inc.      WI        4.37     34.56     2.60     26.03     11.00     2.18     0.03     75.19   $ 8,831  

WNEB

   Western New England Bancorp, Inc.      MA        9.82     29.25     3.93     5.85     23.18     15.73     0.18     67.53   $ 186  

 

Source:

S&P Global Market Intelligence and RP® Financial, LC. calculations. The information provided in this table has been obtained from sources we believe are reliable, but we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of such information.

Copyright (c) 2021 by RP® Financial, LC.


RP® Financial, LC.       PEER GROUP ANALYSIS
      III.12

 

the Peer Group, equal to an average of $2.8 million for the Peer Group compared to a zero balance for the Company.

Diversification into higher risk and higher yielding types of lending was more significant for the Company. The Company’s loan portfolio composition reflected higher concentrations of construction/land loans (8.32% of assets versus 4.60% of assets for the Peer Group), multi-family loans (21.98% of assets versus 9.90% of assets for the Peer Group) and consumer loans (2.56% of assets versus 0.59% for the Peer Group). Comparatively, the Peer Group maintained higher concentrations of commercial real estate loans (21.10% of assets versus 15.02% of assets for the Company) and commercial business loans (11.73% of assets versus 9.91% of assets for the Company). In total, construction/land, commercial real estate, multi-family, commercial business and consumer loans comprised 57.79% and 47.92% of the Company’s and the Peer Group’s assets, respectively. Overall, the Company’s asset composition provided for a similar risk weighted assets-to-assets ratio of 70.12% compared to 69.22% for the Peer Group.

Interest Rate Risk

Table 3.5 reflects various key ratios highlighting the relative interest rate risk exposure of the Company versus the Peer Group. In terms of balance sheet composition, Ponce Financial’s interest rate risk characteristics implied a slightly higher degree of interest rate risk exposure relative to the comparable measures for the Peer Group. In particular, the Company’s tangible equity-to-assets ratio and IEA/IBL ratio were lower than the respective Peer Group ratios. At the same time, the Company’s slightly lower ratio of non-interest earning assets as a percent of assets implied a slightly lesser degree of balance sheet interest rate risk exposure for the Company. On a pro forma basis, the infusion of stock proceeds should serve to strengthen the Company’s balance sheet interest rate risk characteristics, given the increases that will be realized in Company’s tangible equity-to-assets and IEA/IBL ratios.

To analyze interest rate risk associated with the net interest margin, we reviewed quarterly changes in net interest income as a percent of average assets for Ponce Financial and the Peer Group. In general, the comparative fluctuations in the Company’s and the Peer Group’s net interest income ratios implied that a greater degree of interest rate risk was associated with the Company’s net interest margin, based on the interest rate environment that prevailed during the period covered in Table 3.5. The stability of the Company’s net interest margin should be enhanced by the infusion of stock proceeds, as interest rate sensitive


RP® Financial, LC.       Peer Group Analysis
      Page III.13

 

Table 3.5

Interest Rate Risk Measures and Net Interest Income Volatility

Comparable Institution Analysis

As of March 31, 2021 or the Most Recent Date Available.

 

               Balance Sheet Measures                                           
               Tangible           Non-Earn     Quarterly Change in Net Interest Income  
               Equity/     IEA/     Assets/                                           
               Assets     IBL     Assets     3/31/2021      12/31/2020      9/30/2020      6/30/2020      3/31/2020      12/31/2019  
               (%)     (%)     (%)     (change in net interest income is annualized in basis points)  

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

   NY            

March 31, 2021

        11.2     109.0     4.2     16        15        28        -46        11        -11  

All Non-MHC Public Thrifts

                          

Average

        11.5     110.6     5.0     -3        6        0        -16        -4        -6  

Median

        10.6     108.8     8.2     -3        8        -2        -13        -4        -5  

Comparable Group

                          

Average

        12.4     111.3     4.5     -5        15        4        -6        -5        -4  

Median

        11.0     111.0     4.9     -2        12        3        -9        -5        -2  

Comparable Group

                          

ESSA

   ESSA Bancorp, Inc.    PA      9.4     107.0     5.1     5        18        10        -14        -8        4  

HIFS

   Hingham Institution for Savings    MA      10.8     111.3     1.4     11        -3        30        33        2        2  

HMNF

   HMN Financial, Inc.    MN      10.7     110.1     2.7     -21        11        -11        -18        -4        -20  

IROQ

   IF Bancorp, Inc.    IL      11.2     110.6     3.4     -5        11        -2        1        11        -12  

PCSB

   PCSB Financial Corporation    NY      14.3     114.3     3.8     0        1        -3        -17        -3        -9  

PVBC

   Provident Bancorp, Inc.    MA      15.1     113.3     4.9     -27        19        5        -13        -13        2  

PBIP

   Prudential Bancorp, Inc.    PA      10.3     109.4     4.9     3        13        4        -7        -15        -4  

RNDB

   Randolph Bancorp, Inc.    MA      13.7     112.5     5.5     -3        18        -7        -5        3        -9  

WSBF

   Waterstone Financial, Inc.    WI      19.6     119.1     6.9     1        12        1        -6        -15        0  

WNEB

   Western New England Bancorp, Inc.    MA      8.4     105.2     6.2     -12        47        9        -11        -7        2  

NA=Change is greater than 100 basis points during the quarter.

 

Source:

S&P Global Market Intelligence and RP® Financial, LC. calculations. The information provided in this table has been obtained from sources we believe are reliable, but we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of such information.

Copyright (c) 2021 by RP® Financial, LC.


RP® Financial, LC.       PEER GROUP ANALYSIS
      III.14

 

liabilities will be funding a lower portion of Ponce Financial’s assets and the proceeds will be substantially deployed into interest-earning assets.

Credit Risk

Overall, based on a comparison of credit risk measures, the Company’s implied credit risk exposure was viewed to be slightly greater than the Peer Group’s implied credit risk exposure. As shown in Table 3.6, the Company’s ratios for non-performing/assets and non-performing loans/loans equaled 1.32% and 1.51%, respectively, versus comparable measures of 0.77% and 1.08% for the Peer Group. These ratios include accruing loans that are classified as troubled debt restructurings, which accounted for 35% of the Company’s non-performing loan balance. The Company’s and Peer Group’s loss reserves as a percent of non-performing loans equaled 82.14% and 175.43%, respectively. Loss reserves maintained as percent of loans receivable equaled 1.24% for the Company, versus 1.14% for the Peer Group. Net loan charge-offs were a slightly larger factor for the Peer Group, as net loan charge-offs for the Peer Group equaled 0.02% of loans compared to a nominal net recovery for the Company.

Summary

Based on the above analysis, RP Financial concluded that the Peer Group forms a reasonable basis for determining the pro forma market value of the Company. Such general characteristics as asset size, capital position, interest-earning asset composition, funding composition, core earnings measures, loan composition, credit quality and exposure to interest rate risk all tend to support the reasonability of the Peer Group from a financial standpoint. Those areas where differences exist will be addressed in the form of valuation adjustments to the extent necessary.


RP® Financial, LC.       Peer Group Analysis
      Page III.15

 

Table 3.6

Credit Risk Measures and Related Information

Comparable Institution Analysis

As of March 31, 2021

 

                       NPAs &                       Rsrves/               
                 REO/     90+Del/     NPLs/     Rsrves/     Rsrves/     NPAs &     Net Loan      NLCs/  
                 Assets     Assets (1)     Loans (2)     Loans HFI     NPLs (2)     90+Del (1)     Chargeoffs (3)      Loans  
            (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     ($000)      (%)  

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

     NY                    

March 31, 2021

        0.00     1.32     1.51     1.24     82.14     82.14   -$ 41        0.00

All Non-MHC Public Thrifts

                    

Averages

        0.03     0.72     1.02     1.16     175.74     153.51    $ 3,357        0.07

Medians

        0.01     0.54     0.76     1.17     119.34     117.83    $ 222        0.02

Comparable Group

                    

Averages

        0.01     0.77     1.08     1.14     175.43     151.53    $ 194        0.02

Medians

        0.00     0.66     0.84     1.23     119.02     117.83    $ 165        0.01

Comparable Group

                    

ESSA

   ESSA Bancorp, Inc.      PA        0.02     1.55     2.14     1.22     57.02     56.29    $ 225        0.02

HIFS

   Hingham Institution for Savings      MA        0.00     0.06     0.07     0.70     NA       NA     -$ 420        -0.02

HMNF

   HMN Financial, Inc.      MN        0.07     0.33     0.38     1.55     401.43     320.63    $ 567        0.08

IROQ

   IF Bancorp, Inc.      IL        0.03     0.21     0.24     1.24     518.87     409.21    $ 218        0.04

PCSB

   PCSB Financial Corporation      NY        0.00     0.29     0.38     0.63     166.60     144.74    $ 112        0.01

PVBC

   Provident Bancorp, Inc.      MA        0.00     1.50     2.10     0.98     46.93     46.93    $ 893        0.00

PBIP

   Prudential Bancorp, Inc.      PA        0.00     1.08     2.07     1.33     63.99     63.99    $ 8        0.00

RNDB

   Randolph Bancorp, Inc.      MA        0.02     1.38     1.69     1.32     65.49     64.64    $ 49        0.01

WSBF

   Waterstone Financial, Inc.      WI        0.01     0.69     0.89     1.33     119.02     117.83   -$ 69        0.00

WNEB

   Western New England Bancorp, Inc.      MA        0.00     0.62     0.79     1.10     139.53     139.53    $ 360        0.02

 

(1)

NPAs are defined as nonaccrual loans, accruing loans 90 days or more past due, performing TDRs, and OREO.

(2)

NPLs are defined as nonaccrual loans, accruing loans 90 days or more past due and performing TDRs.

(3)

Net loan chargeoffs are shown on a last twelve month basis.

 

Source:

S&P Global Market Intelligence and RP® Financial, LC. calculations. The information provided in this table has been obrained from sources we believe are reliable, but we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of such information.

Copyright (c) 2021 by RP® Financial, LC.


RP® Financial, LC.       VALUATION ANALYSIS
      IV.1

 

IV. VALUATION ANALYSIS

Introduction

This chapter presents the valuation analysis and methodology, prepared pursuant to the regulatory valuation guidelines, and valuation adjustments and assumptions used to determine the estimated pro forma market value of the common stock to be issued in conjunction with the Company’s conversion transaction.

Appraisal Guidelines

The federal regulatory appraisal guidelines required by the FRB, the OCC, the FDIC and state banking agencies specify the pro forma market value methodology for estimating the pro forma market value of a converting thrift. Pursuant to this methodology: (1) a peer group of comparable publicly-traded institutions is selected; (2) a financial and operational comparison of the subject company to the peer group is conducted to discern key differences; and (3) a valuation analysis in which the pro forma market value of the subject company is determined based on the market pricing of the peer group as of the date of valuation, incorporating valuation adjustments for key differences. In addition, the pricing characteristics of recent conversions, both at conversion and in the aftermarket, must be considered.

RP Financial Approach to the Valuation

The valuation analysis herein complies with such regulatory approval guidelines. Accordingly, the valuation incorporates a detailed analysis based on the Peer Group, discussed in Chapter III, which constitutes “fundamental analysis” techniques. Additionally, the valuation incorporates a “technical analysis” of recently completed stock conversions, particularly second-step conversions, including closing pricing and aftermarket trading of such offerings. It should be noted that these valuation analyses cannot possibly fully account for all the market forces which impact trading activity and pricing characteristics of a particular stock on a given day.

The pro forma market value determined herein is a preliminary value for the Company’s to-be-issued stock. Throughout the conversion process, RP Financial will: (1) review changes in Ponce Financial’s operations and financial condition; (2) monitor Ponce Financial’s operations and financial condition relative to the Peer Group to identify any fundamental changes; (3) monitor the external factors affecting value including, but not limited to, local and national


RP® Financial, LC.       VALUATION ANALYSIS
      IV.2

 

economic conditions, interest rates, and the stock market environment, including the market for thrift stocks and PDLB’s stock specifically; and (4) monitor pending conversion offerings, particularly second-step conversions, (including those in the offering phase), both regionally and nationally. If during the second-conversion process material changes occur, RP Financial will determine if updated valuation reports should be prepared to reflect such changes and their related impact on value, if any. RP Financial will also prepare a final valuation update at the closing of the offering to determine if the prepared valuation analysis and resulting range of value continues to be appropriate.

The appraised value determined herein is based on the current market and operating environment for the Company and for all thrifts. Subsequent changes in the local and national economy, the legislative and regulatory environment, the stock market, interest rates, and other external forces (such as natural disasters or major world events), which may occur from time to time (often with great unpredictability) may materially impact the market value of all thrift stocks, including Ponce Financial’s value or Ponce Financial’s value alone. To the extent a change in factors impacting the Company’s value can be reasonably anticipated and/or quantified, RP Financial has incorporated the estimated impact into the analysis.

Valuation Analysis

A fundamental analysis discussing similarities and differences relative to the Peer Group was presented in Chapter III. The following sections summarize the key differences between the Company and the Peer Group and how those differences affect the pro forma valuation. Emphasis is placed on the specific strengths and weaknesses of the Company relative to the Peer Group in such key areas as financial condition, profitability, growth and viability of earnings, asset growth, primary market area, dividends, liquidity of the shares, marketing of the issue, management and the effect of government regulations and/or regulatory reform. We have also considered the market for thrift stocks, in particular new issues, to assess the impact on value of the Company coming to market at this time.

 

1.

Financial Condition

The financial condition of an institution is an important determinant in pro forma market value because investors typically look to such factors as liquidity, capital, asset composition and quality and funding sources in assessing investment attractiveness. The similarities and differences in the Company’s and the Peer Group’s financial strengths are noted as follows:


RP® Financial, LC.       VALUATION ANALYSIS
      IV.3

 

 

   

Overall A/L Composition. In comparison to the Peer Group, the Company’s interest-earning asset composition showed a higher concentration of loans and a lower concentration of cash and investments. Diversification into higher risk and higher yielding types of loans was more significant for the Company, while the Company also maintained a higher concentration of 1-4 family loans. Overall, in comparison to the Peer Group, the Company’s interest-earning asset composition provided for higher yield earned on interest-earning assets with a similar risk weighted assets-to-assets ratio. Ponce Financial’s funding composition reflected slightly higher levels of deposits and borrowings relative to the comparable Peer Group measures, which translated into a higher cost of funds for the Company. Overall, as a percent of assets, the Company maintained a similar level of interest-earning assets and a slightly higher level of interest-bearing liabilities compared to the Peer Group’s ratios, which resulted in a lower IEA/IBL ratio for the Company. After factoring in the impact of the net stock proceeds, the Company’s IEA/IBL ratio should exceed the Peer Group’s IEA/IBL ratio. On balance, RP Financial concluded that asset/liability composition was a slightly positive factor in our adjustment for financial condition.

 

   

Credit Quality. The Company’s ratios for non-performing assets as a percent of assets and non-performing loans as a percent of loans were higher than the comparable ratios for the Peer Group. In comparison to the Peer Group, the Company maintained lower loss reserves as a percent of non-performing loans and slightly higher loss reserves as a percent of loans. Net loan charge-offs as a percent of loans were similar for the Company and the Peer Group. The Company’s risk weighted assets-to-assets ratio was similar to the Peer Group’s ratio. Overall, RP Financial concluded that credit quality was a slightly negative factor in our adjustment for financial condition.

 

   

Balance Sheet Liquidity. The Company operated with a lower level of cash and investment securities relative to the Peer Group (8.99% of assets versus 22.63% for the Peer Group). Following the infusion of stock proceeds, the Company’s cash and investments ratio is expected to increase as the net proceeds realized from the second-step offering will be initially deployed into cash and investments. The Company was viewed as having similar future borrowing capacity relative to the Peer Group, based on the fairly similar levels of borrowings currently funding the Company’s and the Peer Group’s assets. Overall, RP Financial concluded that balance sheet liquidity was a neutral factor in our adjustment for financial condition.

 

   

Funding Liabilities. The Company’s interest-bearing funding composition reflected slightly higher concentrations of deposits and borrowings relative to the comparable Peer Group ratios, which translated into a higher cost of funds for the Company. Total interest-bearing liabilities as a percent of assets were higher for the Company. Following the stock offering, the increase in the Company’s capital position will reduce the level of interest-bearing liabilities funding the Company’s assets. Overall, RP Financial concluded that funding liabilities was a neutral factor in our adjustment for financial condition.

 

   

Capital. The Company currently operates with a slightly lower tangible equity-to-assets ratio than the Peer Group. Following the stock offering, Ponce Financial’s pro forma tangible capital position will exceed the Peer Group’s tangible equity-to-assets ratio. Also, consideration was given to the potential increase in capital that may be realized from the gains on sale of some of the Company’s office properties. The increase in the Company’s pro forma capital position will result in greater leverage potential and reduce the level of interest-bearing liabilities utilized to fund assets. At the same time, the Company’s more significant capital surplus will likely result in a lower ROE. On balance, RP Financial concluded that capital strength was a slightly positive factor in our adjustment for financial condition.


RP® Financial, LC.       VALUATION ANALYSIS
      IV.4

 

On balance, Ponce Financial’s balance sheet strength was considered to be more favorable relative to the Peer Group’s balance sheet strength and, thus, a slight upward adjustment was applied for the Company’s financial condition.

 

2.

Profitability, Growth and Viability of Earnings

Earnings are a key factor in determining pro forma market value, as the level and risk characteristics of an institution’s earnings stream and the prospects and ability to generate future earnings heavily influence the multiple that the investment community will pay for earnings. The major factors considered in the valuation are described below.

 

   

Reported Earnings. The Company’s reported earnings were lower than the Peer Group’s on a ROAA basis (0.59% of average assets versus 1.62% for the Peer Group). The Company maintained earnings advantages with respect to higher net interest income and non-operating income ratios, while the Peer Group maintained earnings advantages with respect to a higher non-interest operating income ratio and a lower operating expense ratio. Reinvestment of stock proceeds into interest-earning assets will serve to increase the Company’s earnings, with the benefit of reinvesting proceeds expected to be somewhat offset by implementation of additional stock benefit plans in connection with the second-step offering. Overall, the Company’s pro forma reported earnings were considered to be less favorable than the Peer Group’s reported earnings and, thus, RP Financial concluded that this was a slightly negative factor in our adjustment for profitability, growth and viability of earnings.

 

   

Core Earnings. Net interest income, operating expenses, non-interest operating income and loan loss provisions were reviewed in assessing the relative strengths and weaknesses of the Company’s and the Peer Group’s core earnings. The Company maintained a higher net interest income ratio, a higher operating expense ratio and a lower level of non-interest operating income. The Company’s higher net interest income and operating expense ratios translated into an expense coverage ratio that equaled the Peer Group’s expense coverage ratio of 0.91x. Comparatively, the Company’s efficiency ratio of 87.44% was less favorable than the Peer Group’s efficiency ratio of 58.50%. Loan loss provisions had a similar impact on the Company’s and the Peer Group’s earnings. After adjusting for non-operating losses and gains, the Company’s ROAA ratio remained below the comparable Peer Group ratio. Overall, these measures, as well as the expected earnings benefits the Company should realize from the redeployment of stock proceeds into interest-earning assets and leveraging of post-conversion capital, which will be somewhat negated by expenses associated with the stock benefit plans, indicate that the Company’s pro forma core earnings will remain slightly less favorable than the Peer Group’s core earnings. Therefore, RP Financial concluded that this was a slightly negative factor in our adjustment for profitability, growth and viability of earnings.


RP® Financial, LC.       VALUATION ANALYSIS
      IV.5

 

   

Interest Rate Risk. Quarterly changes in the Company’s and the Peer Group’s net interest income to average assets ratios indicated a greater degree of volatility was associated with the Company’s net interest margin. Other measures of interest rate risk, such as capital, IEA/IBL and non-interest earning asset ratios were slightly more favorable for the Peer Group, with the exception of the Company’s lower ratio of non-interest earning assets. On a pro forma basis, the infusion of stock proceeds can be expected to provide the Company with higher equity-to-assets and IEA/ILB ratios and perhaps provide greater stability in the quarterly net interest margin. On balance, RP Financial concluded that interest rate risk was a neutral factor in our adjustment for profitability, growth and viability of earnings.

 

   

Credit Risk. Loan loss provisions were a similar factor in the Company’s and the Peer Group’s earnings (0.16% of average assets versus 0.15% of average assets for the Peer Group). In terms of future exposure to credit quality related losses, lending diversification into higher risk types of loans was more significant for the Company Group. The Company’s credit quality measures generally implied a greater degree of credit risk exposure relative to the comparable credit quality measures indicated for the Peer Group. Overall, RP Financial concluded that credit risk was a slightly negative factor in our adjustment for profitability, growth and viability of earnings.

 

   

Earnings Growth Potential. Several factors were considered in assessing earnings growth potential. First, the Company maintained a higher interest rate spread than the Peer Group, which would tend to facilitate continuation of a higher net interest margin for the Company going forward based on the current prevailing interest rate environment. The reinvestment of the net proceeds will add to net interest income, but the initial reinvestment yields are expected to reduce the overall spread. Second, the infusion of stock proceeds will provide the Company with greater growth potential through leverage than currently maintained by the Peer Group. Third, the Peer Group’s higher ratio of non-interest operating income and lower operating expense ratio were viewed as advantages to sustain earnings growth during periods when net interest margins come under pressure as the result of adverse changes in interest rates. Overall, earnings growth potential was considered to be a slightly positive factor in our adjustment for profitability, growth and viability of earnings.

 

   

Return on Equity. Currently, the Company’s core ROE is lower than the Peer Group’s core ROE. As the result of the increase in capital that will be realized from the infusion of net stock proceeds into the Company’s equity, the Company’s pro forma return equity on a core earnings basis will remain lower than the Peer Group’s core ROE. Accordingly, this was a slightly negative factor in the adjustment for profitability, growth and viability of earnings.

On balance, Ponce Financial’s pro forma earnings strength was considered to be less favorable than the Peer Group’s earnings strength and, thus, a slight downward adjustment was applied for profitability, growth and viability of earnings.


RP® Financial, LC.       VALUATION ANALYSIS
      IV.6

 

 

3.

Asset Growth

Comparative asset growth rates for the Company and the Peer Group showed respective increases of 24.57% and 10.00%. The Company’s asset growth was realized through a 27.74% increase in loans, which was partially funded by a 1.64% decrease in cash and investments. Comparatively, asset growth for the Peer Group consisted of a 42.95% increase in cash and investments and a 6.00% increase in loans. On a pro forma basis, the Company’s tangible equity-to-assets ratio will exceed the Peer Group’s tangible equity-to-assets ratio, indicating greater leverage capacity for the Company. On balance, a slight upward adjustment was applied for asset growth.

 

4.

Primary Market Area

The general condition of an institution’s market area has an impact on value, as future success is in part dependent upon opportunities for profitable activities in the local market served. Ponce Financial serves the New York metropolitan area through the headquarters office and 13 full service branches. Operating in a densely populated market area provides the Company with growth opportunities, but such growth must be achieved in a highly competitive market environment. The Company competes against significantly larger institutions that provide a larger array of services and have significantly larger branch networks than maintained by Ponce Financial.

The Peer Group companies generally operate in markets with smaller populations compared to Bronx County. Population growth for the primary market area counties served by the Peer Group companies reflected a range of growth rates, but, overall, population growth rates in the markets served by the Peer Group companies were stronger than Bronx County’s recent historical and projected population growth rates. Bronx County has a lower per capita income compared to the Peer Group’s average per capita income and, on average, the Peer Group’s primary market area counties were more affluent markets within their respective states compared to Bronx County’s per capita income as a percent of New York’s per capita income (94.5% for the Peer Group versus 52.5% for Bronx County). The average and median deposit market shares maintained by the Peer Group companies were greater than the Company’s market share of deposits in Bronx County. Overall, the degree of competition faced by the Peer Group companies was viewed as less than the Company’s competitive environment in Bronx County, while the growth potential in the markets served by the Peer Group companies was for the most part viewed to be slightly more favorable than provided by the Company’s primary


RP® Financial, LC.       VALUATION ANALYSIS
      IV.7

 

market area. Summary demographic and deposit market share data for the Company and the Peer Group companies is provided in Exhibit III-4. As shown in Table 4.1, the average unemployment rate for the primary market area counties served by the Peer Group companies was well below the unemployment rate reflected for Bronx County. On balance, we concluded that a slight downward adjustment was appropriate for the Company’s market area.

Table 4.1

Market Area Unemployment Rates

Ponce Financial Group, Inc. and the Peer Group Companies(1)

 

     County    May 2021
Unemployment
 

Ponce Financial Group, Inc. - NY

   Bronx      13.5

Peer Group Average

        6.0

Prudential Bancorp, Inc. – PA

   Philadelphia      8.7  

Hingham Institution for Savings - MA

   Plymouth      6.4  

HMN Financial, Inc. – MN

   Olmstead      3.0  

ESSA Bancorp, Inc. – PA

   Monroe
     7.1  

Waterstone Financial, Inc. - WI

   Milwaukee      5.8  

IF Bancorp, Inc. – IL

   Iroquois      3.8  

Randolph Bancorp, Inc. - MA

   Norfolk      5.6  

Western New England Bancorp, Inc. - MA Hampden

     8.2  

PCSB Financial Corporation - NY

   Westchester      4.8  

Provident Bancorp, Inc. – MA

   Essex      6.9  

 

(1)

Unemployment rates are not seasonally adjusted.

Source: S&P Global Market Intelligence.

5. Dividends

The Company currently does not pay a dividend. Initially, following the second-step conversion, the Company expects to pay quarterly dividends of $0.02 per share or $0.08 per share annually, which equals a yield of 0.8% based on a price of $10.00 per share. The initial dividend and future declarations of dividends by the Board of Directors will depend upon a number of factors, including investment opportunities, growth objectives, financial condition, profitability, tax considerations, minimum capital requirements, regulatory limitations, stock market characteristics and general economic conditions.


RP® Financial, LC.       VALUATION ANALYSIS
      IV.8

 

Eight out of the ten Peer Group companies pay regular cash dividends, with implied dividend yields ranging from 0.66% to 4.01%. The average dividend yield on the stocks of the Peer Group institutions was 1.57% as of June 1, 2021. Comparatively, as of June 1, 2021, the average dividend yield on the stocks of all fully-converted publicly-traded thrifts equaled 2.19%.

Overall, following the second-step conversion, the Company will have the capacity to pay a dividend comparable to the Peer Group’s average dividend yield based on pro forma earnings and capitalization. On balance, we concluded that no adjustment was warranted for this factor.

6. Liquidity of the Shares

The Peer Group is by definition composed of companies that are traded in the public markets. All of the Peer Group companies trade on NASDAQ. Typically, the number of shares outstanding and market capitalization provides an indication of how much liquidity there will be in a particular stock. The market capitalization of the Peer Group companies ranged from $68.7 million to $633.6 million as of June 1, 2021, with average and median market values of $236.8 million and $181.1 million, respectively. The shares issued and outstanding of the Peer Group companies ranged from 2.1 million to 23.9 million, with average and median shares outstanding equal to 11.0 million and 8.9 million, respectively. The Company’s second-step stock offering is expected to provide for a pro forma market value that will be similar to the Peer Group’s average market capitalization and at the high end or exceed the Peer Group’s range of shares outstanding. Following the second-step conversion, the Company’s stock will be traded on the NASDAQ Capital Market. Overall, we anticipate that the Company’s stock will have a fairly comparable trading market as the Peer Group companies on average and, therefore, concluded no adjustment was necessary for this factor.

7. Marketing of the Issue

We believe that four separate markets exist for thrift stocks, including those coming to market such as Ponce Financial: (A) the after-market for public companies, in which trading activity is regular and investment decisions are made based upon financial condition, earnings, capital, ROE, dividends and future prospects; (B) the new issue market in which converting thrifts are evaluated on the basis of the same factors, but on a pro forma basis without the benefit of prior operations as a fully-converted company; (C) the acquisition market for thrift and bank franchises based in New York; and (D) the market for the public stock of PDLB. All of these markets were considered in the valuation of the Company’s to-be-issued stock.


RP® Financial, LC.       VALUATION ANALYSIS
      IV.9

 

A. The Public Market

The value of publicly-traded thrift stocks is easily measurable, and is tracked by most investment houses and related organizations. Exhibit IV-1 provides pricing and financial data on all publicly-traded thrifts. In general, thrift stock values react to market stimuli such as interest rates, inflation, perceived industry health, projected rates of economic growth, regulatory issues and stock market conditions in general. Exhibit IV-2 displays historical stock market trends for various indices and includes historical stock price index values for publicly-traded thrifts and commercial banks. Exhibit IV-3 displays various stock price indices as of June 1, 2021.

In terms of assessing general stock market conditions, the performance of the overall stock market has generally shown an upward trend in recent quarters. Stocks started out the third quarter of 2020 trading mixed ahead of the release of the June employment report and then rallied higher with the release of the June employment report, which showed the U.S. economy added more jobs than expected. Volatility prevailed in the broader stock market through mid-July, as investors weighed hopes of a Covid-19 vaccine after two companies received “fast track” designations for the development of their coronavirus vaccine candidates against a resurgence in Covid-19 positive cases that was providing for an uneven reopening of the U.S. economy. Stocks retreated heading into the last week of July, as the first weekly increase in new unemployment claims since March raised concerns that mounting coronavirus infections and a renewed wave of mandated lockdowns could slow an economic recovery. The broader stock market continued to trade unevenly in the final week of July, as investors reacted to mixed second quarter earnings reports by some large companies, a record decline in second quarter GDP and the Federal Reserve’s reiteration that it would continue to support the U.S. economy. Overall, technology stocks were the strongest performing stocks during July, as the NASDAQ closed out July at a new record high. Progress in Congressional negotiations for a new coronavirus relief package and initial weekly unemployment claims falling to their lowest level since the coronavirus hit the U.S. in March fueled stock market gains during the first week of August. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (“DJIA”) extended its winning streak to seven sessions on August 10th, as investors assessed the likelihood of another round of stimulus spending and the slowing pace of new coronavirus infections. Led by advances in technology


RP® Financial, LC.       VALUATION ANALYSIS
      IV.10

 

shares, the broader stock market continued to surge higher through the second half of August with the NASDAQ and S&P 500 posting a number of new record highs. Overall, the month of August was the best month for U.S. stocks since April, with stimulus from the U.S. Government, signs of economic revival and progress toward a coronavirus vaccine fueling the gains in the broader stock market. An upbeat report on August manufacturing activity helped to extend the stock market rally into early-September, as the DJIA closed above 29000 for the first time since February. A sell-off in technology stocks led the stock market lower going into the second week of September, as NASDAQ fell into correction territory amid concerns that technology shares had become overvalued. Stocks rebounded heading into mid-September, as technology stocks led the broader stock market higher on large acquisitions announced by Oracle and Nvidia. A decline in oil and gold prices pressured economically sensitive shares lower going in the second half of September, which was followed by a one-day sell-off in technology shares as hopes for additional fiscal stimulus dimmed and investors continued to question the valuation of tech stocks. Stocks regained some lost ground in the final week of the third quarter, which was led by a rebound in economically sensitive shares.

Stocks traded lower at the start of the fourth quarter of 2020, as investors reacted to the September employment report that showed job growth was less than expected. News of President Trump’s improving health propelled stocks higher at the beginning of the second week of October, which was followed by a one-day sell-off caused by a halt in negotiations for a new economic relief package. Stocks rallied higher following the one-day sell-off on revived hopes for a new stimulus deal, as Democratic and White House negotiators resumed negotiations for a coronavirus relief bill. Mixed earnings reports at the start of the third quarter earnings season pressured stocks lower going into mid-October. The sell-off in the broader stock market sharpened during the second half of October, as a surge in coronavirus cases added to worries about the economic outlook in the absence of a stimulus deal. Better-than-expected economic data for third quarter GDP growth and October manufacturing activity contributed to stocks rallying ahead of the election in early-November. The stock market rallied continued on Election Day and the following day, as Wall Street reacted to election results that indicated a Biden presidency gridlocked by a Republican-controlled Senate. News of promising results for two Covid-19 vaccines bolstered stock markets gains through the end of November, which included the DJIA closing above 30000 for the first time. Overall, for the month of November, the DJIA increased 12%, marking its best month since January 1987, while the NASDAQ and S&P 500 posted respective gains of 12% and 11%. Signs of progress on a


RP® Financial, LC.       VALUATION ANALYSIS
      IV.11

 

stimulus relief package and the effectiveness rates for the forthcoming Covid-19 vaccines helped to sustain the broader stock market rally through the first week of December, with the NASDAQ and S&P 500 closing at new record highs. Stocks retreated going into mid-December, as negotiations over a coronavirus relief package stalled. As Congress neared a deal on a new coronavirus relief package, all three major U.S. stock indexes closed at record highs going into the second half of December. Stocks paused after closing at new record highs, as Covid-19 concerns overshadowed Congress’s approval of a coronavirus relief package. All three major U.S. stock indexes closed at record highs in the final week of 2020, as the rollout of the coronavirus vaccine and passage of a new stimulus package buoyed investors’ sentiment.

A wave of new Covid-19 infections prompted a sell-off in the broader stock at the at the start of 2021, which was followed by stocks rallying higher on expectations that there would be a big boost in government spending under a Democrat-controlled Senate. Stocks fell in mid-January, as initial jobless claims posted their biggest weekly increase since the Covid-19 pandemic hit in March. After all three major U.S. stock indexes closed at record highs going into the second half of January, all three major U.S. stock indexes suffered their sharpest losses in late-January amid concerns about how effectively the Covid-19 vaccine was being distributed. Robust fourth quarter earnings posted by some large-cap stocks and a decline in initial jobless claims for a third straight week contributed to stocks rallying higher in the first week of February. All three major U.S. stock indexes closed at record highs going into mid-February, as expectations of a new round of stimulus aid, strong corporate earnings and progress with the rollout of the Covid-19 vaccine fueled stock market gains. The DJIA closed at a new record high at the conclusion of the Federal Reserve’s policy meeting on February 24th, as the Federal Reserve signaled that it was committed to keeping east-monetary policies unchanged. Led by a decline in technology shares, stocks retreated at the end of February on inflation concerns and rising Treasury yields. The DJIA surged to several record highs during the first half of March, as investors rotated into cyclical stocks following a stronger-than-expected employment report for February and progress on a new stimulus bill. Comparatively, with long-term Treasury yields continuing to rise, the NASDAQ fell into correction territory in the second week of March. After the Federal Reserve pledged to maintain its easy-money policies, the DJIA closed above 33000 for the first time heading into the second half of March. As long-term Treasury yields continued to rise, technology and other high growth stocks experienced further selling pressure heading into the second half of March. Stocks retreated going into late-March and then rallied on signs that the U.S. economy was positioned for a period of rapid growth. For the first quarter overall, the DJIA was up 7.8%, the S&P 500 gained 5.8% and the NASDAQ added 2.8%.


RP® Financial, LC.       VALUATION ANALYSIS
      IV.12

 

Led by rebound in technology stocks, the S&P 500 closed above 4000 for the first time at the start of the second quarter of 2021. March jobs data, which showed stronger-than-expected job growth, and a rebound in March service sector activity powered the DJIA and S&P 500 to record highs in the second week of April, as investors bet that economic growth would pick up with more people getting Covid-19 vaccines and increased government spending. Some strong first quarter earnings reports pushed the DJIA and S&P 500 to more record highs in mid-April, which was followed by stocks trading lower across all sectors heading into the second half of April. Stocks traded unevenly heading into the last week of April, as investors weighed fresh evidence that a strong economic recovery was underway against rising Covid-19 infection levels in some countries and consideration by the Biden administration to raise capital gain taxes. For the month of April, the DJIA, S&P 500 and NASDAQ posted monthly gains of 2.7%, 5.2% and 5.4% respectively.

Economically sensitive shares led the stock market higher at the start of May, as investors reacted to data showing economic growth was picking up and continuation of a strong earnings season. A lackluster April jobs report sparked a rebound in technology shares and other growth stocks, while the DJIA and S&P 500 closed at record highs on May 7th. Stock market turbulence prevailed heading into mid-May, with the broader stock market selling off after a sharp increase in April consumer prices heightened inflation concerns and then ended the week rallying higher. Economically sensitive shares led the market lower going in the second half of May, as the Federal Reserve signaled an eventual shift away from its easy-money pandemic policies amid evidence of mounting inflation and a robust economic recovery. Two consecutive weeks of initial weekly jobless claims hitting new pandemic lows contributed to stocks rallying in late-May, with the DJIA and S&P 500 recording gains for the month of May versus a slight decline in the NASDAQ and, thereby, snapping a six-month winning streak. On June 1, 2021, the DJIA closed at 34575.31, an increase of 34.3% from one year ago and an increase of 13.0% year-to-date, and the NASDAQ closed at 13736.48, an increase of 43.0% from one year ago and an increase of 6.6% year-to-date. The S&P 500 Index closed at 4202.04 on June 1, 2021, an increase of 36.4% from one year ago and an increase of 11.9% year-to-date.


RP® Financial, LC.       VALUATION ANALYSIS
      IV.13

 

The market for thrift stocks has also generally been positive in recent quarters. Financial shares pulled back in early-July 2020 amid a dramatic surge in confirmed coronavirus infections in the south and west regions of the U.S., which forced several states to pause or reverse plans to reopen businesses. Growing optimism of a Covid-19 vaccine being developed in the near term contributed to financial shares trading higher along with the broader stock market heading into mid-July, which was followed by a slight pullback in financial shares as big bank second quarter earnings reports warned of a protracted downturn for the U.S. economy. Financial shares traded unevenly throughout the second half of July, in light of uncertainty over the outlook for the U.S. economy and related impact on credit quality. After trading lower the first few trading days of August, financial shares participated in the broader stock market rally going into mid-August. Financial shares diverged from the broader stock market rally in the second half of August and into early-September, as economic uncertainty revolving around the Covid-19 pandemic weighed on the shares of economically sensitive stocks. After trading higher with the release of the better-than-expected employment report for August 2020, thrift stocks retreated in the second week of September. Financial shares edged higher at the conclusion of the Federal Reserve’s mid-September policy meeting, whereby the Federal Reserve pledged to support the economic recovery by setting a higher bar to raise interest rates and by signaling it expected to hold rates near zero for at least three more years. The sell-off in economically sensitive shares going into the second half of September translated into market losses for bank and thrift stocks, which was followed by an uptick in financial shares at the close of the third quarter.

The positive trend in thrift stocks continued through the first two weeks of October 2020, as economically sensitive stocks climbed on hopes for passage of a new coronavirus stimulus bill. Despite better-than-expected third quarter earnings results posted by some big banks at the start of the third quarter earnings season, financial shares traded lower in mid-October. Financial shares rallied going into late-October, as news that weekly initial jobless claims fell by 55,000 pushed the 10-year Treasury yield up to 0.85%. Financial shares sold-off along with the broader stock market during the last week of October, as rising coronavirus cases shook investors’ confidence in the economic recovery. Financial shares also participated in the broader stock market rally during the first two trading days of November and on Election Day, but then diverged from the broader stock market rally the day following the election as investors bet that the election results and a potentially long period of vote counting would delay and potentially reduce another round of stimulus. Amid building hopes that drug-makers were on the brink of pushing out vaccines effective enough to fight the coronavirus, economically sensitive stocks, such as bank stocks, were among the strongest performing sectors for the


RP® Financial, LC.       VALUATION ANALYSIS
      IV.14

 

balance of November. After trading lower on last day of November, the positive trend in thrift stocks resumed through the first half of December on signs of a progress in negotiations over a coronavirus relief package. Amid a surge in coronavirus infections and the Federal Reserve leaving its benchmark interest rate near zero, thrift shares edged lower going into final week of 2020 and then rebounded in the last week of 2020 after President Trump signed a Covid-19 relief bill.

Thrift shares traded flat at the start of 2021 and then rallied higher in the second week of January on expectations of additional stimulus after Democrats took control of the Senate. Thrift shares reversed course and trended lower in the second half of January on concerns over the lingering economic impact of the coronavirus and related impact on loan demand and credit quality. A decline in coronavirus cases across the U.S. helped thrift shares to rebound in the first week of February. Expectations of more stimulus, some positive economic reports and rising bond yields contributed to thrift shares trading higher going into late-February. After trading lower in late-February on inflation concerns, thrift shares rallied during the first half of March. The SNL Thrift Index for all publicly-traded thrifts was up 9.1% during the first half of March, as investors rotated into economically shares on signs that the U.S. economy was gaining traction in light of the favorable jobs report for March, the signing of a $1.9 trillion relief package and more people getting vaccinated. Thrift shares pulled back towards the close of the first quarter on concerns about the strength of the economic recovery, the Federal Reserve’s ending of a yearlong reprieve that eased capital requirements for big banks and a large investment fund unwound billions of dollars in holdings.

Strong job growth reflected in the March employment data and an improving economic outlook propelled thrift stocks higher at the start of the second quarter of 2021. Despite favorable first quarter earnings posted by Wall Street’s big banks, financial shares edged lower in mid-April as investors focused on the lack of loan growth and net interest margins coming under further pressure. A pick-up in bank merger activity contributed to financial shares trading higher going into the last week of April, which was followed by thrift shares pulling back in the last week of April on signs that inflation was accelerating. Signs that economic growth was accelerating helped to lift thrift shares in early-May. After spiking lower on signs that inflation was heating up, thrift shares powered higher to close out the second week of trading in May as investors saw value in bank stocks that underperformed the broader stock market during 2020 and were trading at relatively low P/E multiples compared to the S&P 500. After financial shares retreated in late-May, as the Federal Reserve’s top supervisory official


RP® Financial, LC.       VALUATION ANALYSIS
      IV.15

 

came under criticism during his semi-annual congressional testimony, bank and thrift stocks traded higher to closeout May and the start of June on news that initial weekly jobless claims hit a new pandemic low for a second consecutive week. On June 1, 2021, the SNL Thrift Index for all publicly-traded thrifts closed at 1,005.5, an increase of 54.3% from one year ago and an increase of 23.1% year-to-date.

B. The New Issue Market

In addition to thrift stock market conditions in general, the new issue market for converting thrifts is also an important consideration in determining the Company’s pro forma market value. The new issue market is separate and distinct from the market for seasoned thrift stocks in that the pricing ratios for converting issues are computed on a pro forma basis, specifically: (1) the numerator and denominator are both impacted by the conversion offering amount, unlike existing stock issues in which price change affects only the numerator; and (2) the pro forma pricing ratio incorporates assumptions regarding source and use of proceeds, effective tax rates, stock plan purchases, etc. which impact pro forma financials, whereas pricing for existing issues are based on reported financials. The distinction between pricing of converting and existing issues is perhaps no clearer than in the case of the price/book (“P/B”) ratio in that the P/B ratio of a converting thrift will typically result in a discount to book value whereas in the current market for existing thrifts the P/B ratio may reflect a premium to book value. Therefore, it is appropriate to also consider the market for new issues, both at the time of the conversion and in the aftermarket.

As shown in Table 4.2, three second-step conversion offerings have been completed during the past twelve months. Two of the second-step conversion offerings were completed in January 2021 and one was completed in March 2021. The average closing pro forma price/tangible book ratio of the three second-step conversion offerings equaled 70.5%. On average, the three second-step conversion offerings reflected price appreciation of 5.6% after the first week of trading. As of June 1, 2021, the three second-step conversion offerings reflected a 12.6% increase in price on average from their IPO prices.

C. The Acquisition Market

Also considered in the valuation was the potential impact on Ponce Financial’s stock price of recently completed and pending acquisitions of other thrift and bank


RP® Financial, LC.       Valuation Analysis
      IV.16

 

Table 4.2

Pricing Characteristics and After-Market Trends

Conversions Completed in Trailing 12 Months

 

Institutional Information

  Pre-Conversion Data     Offering Information     Contribution
to Char.
Found.
    Insider Purchases           Pro Forma Data           Post-IPO Pricing Trends  
            Financial Info.     Asset Quality                                         % Off Incl. Fdn.+Merger
Shares
          Pricing
Ratios(2)(5)
    Financial
Charac.
          Closing Price:  
                                    Excluding Foundation                 Benefit Plans                                                                                                        

Institution

 

Conversion
Date

 

Ticker

  Assets     Equity/
Assets
    NPAs/
Assets
    Res.
Cov.
    Gross
Proc.
    %
Offer
    % of
Mid.
    Exp./
Proc.
    Form     % of
Public
Off.
Inc.
Fdn.
    ESOP     Recog.
Plans
    Stk
Option
    Mgmt.&
Dirs.
    Initial
Div.
Yield
    P/
TB
    Core
P/E
    P/A     Core
ROA
    TE/
A
    Core
ROE
    IPO
Price
    First
Trading
Day
    %
Chg
    After
First
Week(3)
    %
Chg
    After
First
Month(4)
    %
Chg
    Thru
6/1/2021
    %
Chg
 
            ($Mil)     (%)     (%)     (%)     ($Mil.)     (%)     (%)     (%)           (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)(1)     (%)     (%)     (x)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     ($)     ($)     (%)     ($)     (%)     ($)     (%)     ($)     (%)  

Standard Conversions

                                                           

Eastern Bankshares, Inc., MA*

  10/15/20   EBC-NASDAQ   $ 13,997       12.10     0.04     211   $ 1,797.1       100     118     1.6     S       4.0     8.0     4.0     10.0     0.1     0.00     65.0     22.8x       12.0     0.5     19.0     2.5   $ 10.00     $ 12.15       21.5   $ 12.48       24.8   $ 13.62       36.2   $ 22.21       122.1

Systematic Savings Bank, MO

  10/14/20   SSSB-OTCPink   $ 40       12.64     8.00     NM     $ 6.0       100     132     14.3     N.A.       N.A.       0.0     0.0     0.0     18.0     0.00     58.6     46.5x       13.2     0.3     22.5     1.3   $ 10.00     $ 10.00       0.0   $ 10.00       0.0   $ 10.00       0.0   $ 10.00       0.0

Averages - Standard Conversions:

  $ 7,018       12.37     4.02     211   $ 901.5       100     125     7.9     N.A.       N.A.       4.0     2.0     5.0     9.1     0.00     61.8     34.7x       12.6     0.4     20.8     1.9   $ 10.00     $ 11.08       10.8   $ 11.24       12.4   $ 11.81       18.1   $ 16.11       61.1

Medians - Standard Conversions:

  $ 7,018       12.37     4.02     211   $ 901.5       100     125     7.9     N.A.       N.A.       4.0     2.0     5.0     9.1     0.00     61.8     34.7x       12.6     0.4     20.8     1.9   $ 10.00     $ 11.08       10.8   $ 11.24       12.4   $ 11.81       18.1   $ 16.11       61.1

Second Step Conversions

                                                           

William Penn Bancorporation, PA*

  3/25/21   WMPN-NASDAQ   $ 737       13.70     0.67     75   $ 126.4       83     115     2.0     N.A.       N.A.       8.0     4.0     10.0     1.0     1.29     74.5     106.6x       17.9     0.2     24.3     0.7   $ 10.00     $ 11.41       14.1   $ 11.36       13.6   $ 11.39       13.9   $ 11.28       12.8

Affinity Bancshares, Inc., GA*

  1/21/21   AFBI-NASDAQ   $ 888       8.93     0.56     154   $ 37.0       54     132     4.1     N.A.       N.A.       8.0     4.0     10.0     3.5     0.00     75.3     17.6x       7.5     0.4     10.2     3.6   $ 10.00     $ 10.85       8.5   $ 10.75       7.5   $ 11.30       13.0   $ 12.55       25.5

Generations Bancorp NY, Inc.

  1/13/21   GBNY-NASDAQ   $ 368       8.10     1.08     54   $ 14.8       60     98     8.8     N.A.       N.A.       8.0     4.0     10.0     3.1     0.00     61.7     15.0x       6.5     0.4     10.5     4.0   $ 10.00     $ 10.05       0.5   $ 9.56       -4.4   $ 9.48       -5.2   $ 9.95       -0.5

Averages - Second Step Conversions:

  $ 664       10.24     0.77     94   $ 59.4       66     115     5.0     N.A.       N.A.       8.0     4.0     10.0     2.5     0.43     70.5     46.4x       10.6     0.3     15.0     2.7   $ 10.00     $ 10.77       7.7   $ 10.56       5.6   $ 10.72       7.2   $ 11.26       12.6

Medians - Second Step Conversions

  $ 737       8.93     0.67     75   $ 37.0       60     115     4.1     N.A.       N.A.       8.0     4.0     10.0     3.1     0.00     74.5     17.6x       7.5     0.4     10.5     3.6   $ 10.00     $ 10.85       8.5   $ 10.75       7.5   $ 11.30       13.0   $ 11.28       12.8

Mutual Holding Companies

                                                           

Marathon Bancorp, Inc., WI*

  4/20/21   MBBC-OTCPink   $ 174       12.39     0.22     562   $ 10.0       45     124     12.2     N.A.       N.A.       8.7     4.4     10.9     7.0     0.00     55.8     35.4x       11.6     0.4     16.0     2.6   $ 10.00     $ 10.10       1.00   $ 10.27       2.7   $ 10.40       4.0   $ 10.45       4.5

Averages - MHC Conversions:

  $ 174       12.39     0.22     562   $ 10.0       45     124     12.2     N.A.       N.A.       8.7     4.4     10.9     7.0     0.00     55.8     35.4x       11.6     0.4     16.0     2.6   $ 10.00     $ 10.10       1.0   $ 10.27       2.7   $ 10.40       4.0   $ 10.45       4.5

Medians - MHC Conversions

  $ 174       12.39     0.22     562   $ 10.0       45     124     12.2     N.A.       N.A.       8.7     4.4     10.9     7.0     0.00     55.8     35.4x       11.6     0.4     16.0     2.6   $ 10.00     $ 10.10       1.0   $ 10.27       2.7   $ 10.40       4.0   $ 10.45       4.5

Averages - All Conversions

  $ 2,701       11.31     1.76     211   $ 331.9       74     120     7.2     N.A.       N.A.       6.8     3.4     8.5     5.4     0.21     65.1     40.7x       11.4     0.4     17.1     2.4   $ 10.00     $ 10.76       7.6   $ 10.74       7.4   $ 11.03       10.3   $ 12.74       27.4

Medians - All Conversions

  $ 552       12.25     0.62     154   $ 25.9       72     121     6.5     N.A.       N.A.       8.0     4.0     10.0     3.3     0.00     63.4     29.1x       11.8     0.4     17.5     2.6   $ 10.00     $ 10.48       4.8   $ 10.51       5.1   $ 10.85       8.5   $ 10.87       8.6

 

Note:

* - Appraisal performed by RP Financial; BOLD = RP Financial assisted in the business plan preparation, “NT”—Not Traded; “NA”—Not Applicable, Not Available; C/S-Cash/Stock.

 

(1)

As a percent of MHC offering for MHC transactions.

(2)

Does not take into account the adoption of SOP 93-6.

(3)

Latest price if offering is less than one week old.

(4)

Latest price if offering is more than one week but less than one month old.

(5)

Mutual holding company pro forma data on full conversion basis.

(6)

Simultaneously completed acquisition of another financial institution.

(7)

Simultaneously converted to a commercial bank charter.

(8)

Former credit union.

6/1/2021


RP® Financial, LC.       VALUATION ANALYSIS
      IV.17

 

institutions operating in New York. As shown in Exhibit IV-4, there were 17 acquisitions of New York based bank and savings institutions completed from the beginning of 2017 through June 1, 2021 and there are currently three acquisitions pending for a New York based bank or savings institutions. The recent acquisition activity involving New York bank and savings institutions may imply a certain degree of acquisition speculation for the Company’s stock. To the extent that acquisition speculation may impact the Company’s offering, we have largely taken this into account in selecting companies for the Peer Group that could be subject to the same type of acquisition speculation that may influence Ponce Financial’s stock. However, since converting thrifts are subject to a three-year regulatory moratorium from being acquired, acquisition speculation in Ponce Financial’s stock would tend to be less compared to the stocks of the Peer Group companies.

D. Trading in PDLB’s Stock

Since PDLB’s minority stock currently trades under the symbol “PDLB” on the NASDAQ Global Select Market, RP Financial also considered the recent trading activity in the valuation analysis. PDLB had a total of 17,018,252 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2021, of which 7,472,864 shares were held by public shareholders and traded as public securities. The Company’s stock has had a 52 week trading range of $8.11 to $14.40 per share and its closing price on June 1, 2021 was $13.78 per share. There are significant differences between the Company’s minority stock (currently being traded) and the conversion stock that will be issued by the Company. Such differences include different liquidity characteristics, a different return on equity for the conversion stock and the stock is currently traded based on its MHC ownership structure. Since the pro forma impact has not been publicly disseminated to date, it is appropriate to discount the current trading level. As the pro forma impact is made known publicly, the trading level will become more informative.

* * * * * * * * * * *

In determining our valuation adjustment for marketing of the issue, we considered trends in both the overall thrift market, the new issue market including the new issue market for second-step conversions, the acquisition market and recent trading activity in the Company’s minority stock. Taking these factors and trends into account, RP Financial concluded that no adjustment was appropriate in the valuation analysis for purposes of marketing of the issue.


RP® Financial, LC.       VALUATION ANALYSIS
      IV.18

 

8. Management

The Company’s management team appears to have experience and expertise in all of the key areas of the Company’s operations. Exhibit IV-5 provides summary resumes of the Company’s Board of Directors and senior management. The financial characteristics of the Company suggest that the Board and senior management have been effective in implementing an operating strategy that can be well managed by the Company’s present organizational structure. The Company currently does not have any senior management positions that are vacant.

Similarly, the returns, equity positions and other operating measures of the Peer Group companies are indicative of well-managed financial institutions, which have Boards and management teams that have been effective in implementing competitive operating strategies. Therefore, on balance, we concluded no valuation adjustment relative to the Peer Group was appropriate for this factor.

9. Effect of Government Regulation and Regulatory Reform

As a fully-converted regulated institution, Ponce Financial will operate in substantially the same regulatory environment as the Peer Group members — all of whom are adequately capitalized institutions and are operating with no apparent restrictions. Exhibit IV-6 reflects the Bank’s pro forma regulatory capital ratios. On balance, no adjustment has been applied for the effect of government regulation and regulatory reform.

Summary of Adjustments

Overall, based on the factors discussed above, we concluded that the Company’s pro forma market value should reflect the following valuation adjustments relative to the Peer Group:

 

Key Valuation Parameters:

  

Valuation Adjustment

Financial Condition    Slight Upward
Profitability, Growth and Viability of Earnings    Slight Downward
Asset Growth    Slight Upward
Primary Market Area    Slight Downward
Dividends    No Adjustment
Liquidity of the Shares    No Adjustment
Marketing of the Issue    No Adjustment
Management    No Adjustment
Effect of Govt. Regulations and Regulatory Reform    No Adjustment


RP® Financial, LC.       VALUATION ANALYSIS
      IV.19

 

Valuation Approaches

In applying the accepted valuation methodology promulgated by the FRB, i.e., the pro forma market value approach, we considered the three key pricing ratios in valuing the Company’s to-be-issued stock — price/earnings (“P/E”), price/book (“P/B”), and price/assets (“P/A”) approaches — all performed on a pro forma basis including the effects of the stock proceeds. In computing the pro forma impact of the conversion and the related pricing ratios, we have incorporated the valuation parameters disclosed in the Company’s prospectus for reinvestment rate, effective tax rate, stock benefit plan assumptions and expenses (summarized in Exhibits IV-7 and IV-8). In our estimate of value, we assessed the relationship of the pro forma pricing ratios relative to the Peer Group and recent conversion offerings.

RP Financial’s valuation placed an emphasis on the following:

 

   

P/E Approach. The P/E approach is generally the best indicator of long-term value for a stock and we have given it significant weight among the valuation approaches. Given certain similarities between the Company’s and the Peer Group’s earnings composition and overall financial condition, the P/E approach was carefully considered in this valuation. At the same time, recognizing that (1) the earnings multiples will be evaluated on a pro forma basis for the Company; and (2) the Peer Group companies have had the opportunity to realize the benefit of reinvesting and leveraging their offering proceeds, we also gave weight to the other valuation approaches.

 

   

P/B Approach. P/B ratios have generally served as a useful benchmark in the valuation of thrift stocks, particularly in the context of a public offering, as the earnings approach involves assumptions regarding the use of proceeds. RP Financial considered the P/B approach to be a valuable indicator of pro forma value, taking into account the pricing ratios under the P/E and P/A approaches. We have also modified the P/B approach to exclude the impact of intangible assets (i.e., price/tangible book value or “P/TB”), in that the investment community frequently makes this adjustment in its evaluation of this pricing approach.

 

   

P/A Approach. P/A ratios are generally a less reliable indicator of market value, as investors typically assign less weight to assets and attribute greater weight to book value and earnings. Furthermore, this approach as set forth in the regulatory valuation guidelines does not take into account the amount of stock purchases funded by deposit withdrawals, thus understating the pro forma P/A ratio. At the same time, the P/A ratio is an indicator of franchise value, and, in the case of highly capitalized institutions, high P/A ratios may limit the investment community’s willingness to pay market multiples for earnings or book value when ROE is expected to be low.


RP® Financial, LC.       VALUATION ANALYSIS
      IV.20

 

   

Trading of PDLB stock. Converting institutions generally do not have stock outstanding. PDLB, however, has public shares outstanding due to the mutual holding company form of ownership and first-step minority stock offering. Since PDLB’s stock is currently traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market, it is an indicator of the Company’s current market value and therefore received some weight in our valuation. Based on the June 1, 2021 closing stock price of $13.78 per share and the 17,018,252 shares of PDLB common stock outstanding, the Company’s implied market value of $234.5 million was considered in the valuation process. However, since the Company’s conversion stock will have different characteristics than the minority shares, and the pro forma information has not been publicly disseminated to date, the current trading price of PDLB’s stock was somewhat discounted herein but will become more important towards the closing of the offering.

The Company has adopted “Employers’ Accounting for Employee Stock Ownership Plans” (“ASC 718-40”), which causes earnings per share computations to be based on shares issued and outstanding excluding unreleased ESOP shares. For purposes of preparing the pro forma pricing analyses, we have reflected all shares issued in the offering, including all ESOP shares, to capture the full dilutive impact, particularly since the ESOP shares are economically dilutive, receive dividends and can be voted. However, we did consider the impact of ASC 718-40 in the valuation.

In preparing the pro forma pricing analysis we have taken into account the pro forma impact of the MHC’s net assets (i.e., unconsolidated equity) that will be consolidated with the Company and, thus, will increase equity. At March 31, 2021, the MHC had net assets of $90,000, which has been added to the Company’s March 31, 2021 pro forma equity to reflect the consolidation of the MHC into the Company’s operations. Exhibit IV-9 shows that after accounting for the impact of the MHC’s net assets, the public shareholders’ ownership interest was reduced by approximately 0.02%. Accordingly, for purposes of the Company’s pro forma valuation, the public shareholders’ ownership interest was reduced from 43.91% to 43.89% and the MHC’s ownership interest was increased from 56.09% to 56.11%.

Based on the application of the three valuation approaches, taking into consideration the valuation adjustments discussed above, RP Financial concluded that as of June 1, 2021, the aggregate pro forma market value of Ponce Financial’s conversion stock, including shares issued to the Foundation, equaled $190,282,790 at the midpoint, equal to 19,028,279 shares at $10.00 per share. The $10.00 per share price was determined by the Boards of Directors of PDLB and the MHC. The midpoint and resulting valuation range is based on the sale of an 56.11% ownership interest to the public, which provides for a $105,000,000 public offering at the midpoint value.


RP® Financial, LC.       VALUATION ANALYSIS
      IV.21

 

1. Price-to-Earnings (“P/E”). The application of the P/E valuation method requires calculating the Company’s pro forma market value by applying a valuation P/E multiple to the pro forma earnings base. In applying this technique, we considered both reported earnings and a recurring earnings base, that is, earnings adjusted to exclude any one-time non-operating items, plus the estimated after-tax earnings benefit of the reinvestment of the net proceeds. The Company’s reported earnings equaled $7.518 million for the twelve months ended March 31, 2021. In deriving Ponce Financial’s core earnings, the only adjustment made to reported earnings was eliminating gain on sale of property of $4.840 million. As shown below, on a tax effected basis, assuming an effective marginal tax rate of 23.0% for the earnings adjustments, the Company’s core earnings were determined to equal $3.791 million for the twelve months ended March 31, 2021.

 

     Amount  
     ($000)  

Net income(loss)

   $ 7,518  

Deduct: Gain on sale of property(1)

     (3,727
  

 

 

 

Core earnings estimate

   $ 3,791  

 

  (1)

Tax effected at 23.0%.

Based on the Company’s reported earnings and incorporating the impact of the pro forma assumptions discussed previously, the Company’s pro forma reported and core P/E multiples at the $190.3 million midpoint value equaled 29.66x and 70.75x, respectively, indicating premiums of 145.33% and 444.23% relative to the Peer Group’s average reported and core earnings multiples of 12.09x and 13.00x, respectively (see Table 4.3). In comparison to the Peer Group’s median reported and core earnings multiples of 11.17x and 12.95x, respectively, the Company’s pro forma reported and core P/E multiples at the midpoint value indicated premiums of 165.53% and 446.33%, respectively. The Company’s pro forma P/E ratios based on reported earnings at the minimum and the super maximum equaled 24.59x and 41.47x, respectively, and based on core earnings at the minimum and the super maximum equaled 56.73x and 107.46x respectively.

2. Price-to-Book (“P/B”). The application of the P/B valuation method requires calculating the Company’s pro forma market value by applying a valuation P/B ratio, as derived from the Peer Group’s P/B ratio, to the Company’s pro forma book value. Based on the $190.3 million midpoint valuation, the Company’s pro forma P/B and P/TB ratios both equaled 76.16%. In comparison to the average P/B and P/TB ratios for the Peer Group of 112.47% and 114.62%,


RP® Financial, LC.       Valuation Analysis
      IV.22

 

Table 4.3

Market Pricing Versus Peer Group

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

As of June 1, 2021

 

        Market     Per Share Data                                
        Capitalization     Core     Book     Pricing Ratios(2)     Dividends(3)     Financial Characteristics(5)              
        Price/
Share
    Market
Value
    12 Month
EPS(1)
    Value/
Share
    Amount/
Share
          Payout
Ratio(4)
    Total
Assets
    Equity/
Assets
    Tang. Eq./
T. Assets
    NPAs/
Assets
    Reported     Core     Exchange
Ratio
    Offering
Size
 
        P/E     P/B     P/A     P/TB     P/Core     Yield     ROAA     ROAE     ROAA     ROAE  
        ($)     ($Mil)     ($)     ($)     (x)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (x)     ($)     (%)     (%)     ($Mil)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (x)     ($Mil)  

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

  NY                                            

Super Maximum

    $ 10.00     $ 251.65     $ 0.09     $ 11.11       41.47x       90.01     16.21     90.01     107.46x     $ 0.00       0.00     0.00   $ 1,552       18.01     18.01     1.22     0.39     2.17     0.15     0.84     1.4535x     $ 138.86  

Maximum

    $ 10.00     $ 218.83     $ 0.12     $ 12.05       34.99x       82.99     14.24     82.99     86.57x     $ 0.00       0.00     0.00   $ 1,536       17.16     17.16     1.23     0.41     2.37     0.16     0.96     1.2639x     $ 120.75  

Midpoint

    $ 10.00     $ 190.28     $ 0.14     $ 13.13       29.66x       76.16     12.50     76.16     70.75x     $ 0.00       0.00     0.00   $ 1,522       16.41     16.41     1.24     0.42     2.57     0.18     1.08     1.0991x     $ 105.00  

Minimum

    $ 10.00     $ 161.74     $ 0.18     $ 14.60       24.59x       68.49     10.72     68.49     56.73x     $ 0.00       0.00     0.00   $ 1,509       15.65     15.65     1.25     0.44     2.79     0.19     1.21     0.9342x     $ 89.25  

All Non-MHC Public Thrifts(6)

                                             

Averages

    $ 27.52     $ 646.78     $ 2.30     $ 20.95       13.52       114.11     14.24     126.45     14.28     $ 0.48       2.19     46.74   $ 4,625       12.83     11.61     0.73     1.04     8.42     1.08     8.76    

Median

    $ 16.35     $ 186.68     $ 1.14     $ 16.88       13.42       105.02     13.33     112.14     13.67     $ 0.36       2.01     34.71   $ 1,718       11.61     10.60     0.54     0.83     7.09     0.88     7.22    

All Non-MHC State of NY(6)

                                             

Averages

    $ 16.93     $ 1,128.67     $ 0.77     $ 17.32       14.10       93.77     9.31     107.44     17.37     $ 0.58       2.95     45.24   $ 11,214       10.49     9.44     0.86     0.52     4.36     0.42     3.31    

Medians

    $ 13.18     $ 161.82     $ 0.88     $ 17.03       11.57       93.47     8.77     106.38     13.70     $ 0.60       3.60     48.88   $ 1,271       10.21     8.67     0.55     0.67     6.95     0.66     5.76    

Comparable Group

                                             

Averages

    $ 45.44     $ 236.81     $ 4.06     $ 30.14       12.09x       112.47     14.31     114.62     13.00x     $ 0.44       1.57     19.10   $ 1,654       12.58     12.37     0.75     1.62     12.42     1.57     11.79    

Medians

    $ 19.14     $ 181.13     $ 1.64     $ 17.79       11.17x       100.80     12.96     105.29     12.95x     $ 0.26       1.32     19.27   $ 1,703       11.02     11.02     0.65     0.94     7.54     0.98     7.48    

Comparable Group

                                             

ESSA

  ESSA Bancorp, Inc.   PA   $ 16.01     $ 160.03     $ 1.53     $ 18.51       10.26x       86.51     8.72     93.30     10.43x     $ 0.48       3.00     29.49   $ 1,970       10.08     9.42     1.27     0.83     8.21     0.81     8.08    

HIFS

  Hingham Institution for Savings   MA   $ 295.74     $ 633.59     $ 22.69     $ 144.12       9.96x       205.20     22.25     205.20     13.03x     $ 1.96       0.66     8.56   $ 2,844       10.84     10.84     0.06     2.36     23.21     1.81     17.74    

HMNF

  HMN Financial, Inc.   MN   $ 20.74     $ 94.75     $ 2.66     $ 22.11       7.80x       93.78     10.14     94.53     7.79x     $ 0.00       0.00     0.00   $ 971       10.82     10.74     0.37     1.38     12.33     1.38     12.34    

IROQ

  IF Bancorp, Inc.   IL   $ 22.59     $ 68.73     $ 1.75     $ 25.76       12.08x       87.66     9.82     87.66     12.88x     $ 0.30       1.33     16.04   $ 745       11.20     11.20     0.20     0.79     6.87     0.74     6.45    

PCSB

  PCSB Financial Corporation   NY   $ 18.32     $ 273.42     $ 0.80     $ 16.99       22.90x       107.82     15.77     110.37     22.95x     $ 0.24       1.31     22.50   $ 1,855       14.63     14.34     0.29     0.67     4.38     0.67     4.37    

PVBC

  Provident Bancorp, Inc.   MA   $ 16.39     $ 239.39     $ 0.92     $ 12.61       19.51x       130.02     19.62     130.02     17.90x     $ 0.16       0.98     15.48   $ 1,552       15.09     15.09     1.50     1.05     6.31     1.14     6.88    

PBIP

  Prudential Bancorp, Inc.   PA   $ 13.90     $ 109.24     $ 0.64     $ 16.40       14.63x       84.77     9.17     89.15     21.71x     $ 0.28       2.01     29.47   $ 1,204       10.82     10.34     1.12     0.64     5.96     0.43     3.99    

RNDB

  Randolph Bancorp, Inc.   MA   $ 22.32     $ 110.15     $ 4.90     $ 18.80       4.63x       118.71     16.22     118.75     4.56x     $ 0.00       0.00     0.00   $ 738       13.66     13.66     1.38     3.49     26.37     3.55     26.80    

WSBF

  Waterstone Financial, Inc.   WI   $ 19.95     $ 476.59     $ 4.08     $ 17.07       5.00x       116.87     22.90     117.04     4.89x     $ 0.80       4.01     36.09   $ 2,198       19.59     19.57     0.69     4.40     24.03     4.50     24.58    

WNEB

  Western New England Bancorp, Inc.   MA   $ 8.46     $ 202.23     $ 0.61     $ 9.07       14.10x       93.32     8.44     100.22     13.81x     $ 0.20       2.36     33.33   $ 2,464       9.05     8.48     0.62     0.62     6.49     0.64     6.64    

 

(1)

Core income, on a diluted per-share basis. Core income is net income after taxes and before extraordinary items, less net income attributable to noncontrolling interest, gain on the sale of securities, amortization of intangibles, goodwill and nonrecurring items. Assumed tax rate is 35%.

 

(2)

P/E = Price to earnings; P/B = Price to book; P/A = Price to assets; P/TB = Price to tangible book value; and P/Core = Price to core earnings. P/E and P/Core =NM if the ratio is negative or above 35x.

 

(3)

Indicated 12 month dividend, based on last quarterly dividend declared.

 

(4)

Indicated 12 month dividend as a percent of trailing 12 month earnings.

 

(5)

Equity and tangible equity equal common equity and tangible common equity, respectively. ROAA (return on average assets) and ROAE (return on average equity) are indicated ratios based on trailing 12 month earnings and average equity and assets balances.

 

(6)

Excludes from averages and medians those companies the subject of actual or rumored acquisition activities or unusual operating characteristics.

Source: S&P Global Market Intelligence and RP Financial, LC. calculations. The information provided in this report has been obtained from sources we believe are reliable, but we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of such information.

Copyright (c) 2021 by RP® Financial, LC.


RP® Financial, LC.       VALUATION ANALYSIS
      IV.23

 

respectively, the Company’s ratios reflected discounts of 32.28% on a P/B basis and 33.55% on a P/TB basis. In comparison to the Peer Group’s median P/B and P/TB ratios of 100.80% and 105.29%, respectively, the Company’s pro forma P/B and P/TB ratios at the midpoint value reflected discounts of 24.44% on a P/B basis and 27.67% on a P/TB basis. At the super maximum of the range, the Company’s P/B and P/TB ratios equaled 90.01%. In comparison to the Peer Group’s average P/B and P/TB ratios, the Company’s P/B and P/TB ratios at the super maximum of the range reflected discounts of 19.97% and 21.47%, respectively. In comparison to the Peer Group’s median P/B and P/TB ratios, the Company’s P/B and P/TB ratios at the super maximum of the range reflected discounts of 10.70% and 14.51%, respectively.

3. Price-to-Assets (“P/A”). The P/A valuation methodology determines market value by applying a valuation P/A ratio to the Company’s pro forma asset base, conservatively assuming no deposit withdrawals are made to fund stock purchases. In all likelihood there will be deposit withdrawals, which results in understating the pro forma P/A ratio which is computed herein. At the $190.3 million midpoint of the valuation range, the Company’s value equaled 12.50% of pro forma assets. Comparatively, the Peer Group companies exhibited an average P/A ratio of 14.31%, which implies a discount of 12.65% has been applied to the Company’s pro forma P/A ratio. In comparison to the Peer Group’s median P/A ratio of 12.96%, the Company’s pro forma P/A ratio at the midpoint value reflects a discount of 3.55%.

Comparison to Recent Offerings

As indicated at the beginning of this chapter, RP Financial’s analysis of recent conversion offering pricing characteristics at closing and in the aftermarket has been limited to a “technical” analysis and, thus, the pricing characteristics of recent conversion offerings cannot be a primary determinate of value. Particular focus was placed on the P/TB approach in this analysis, since the P/E multiples do not reflect the actual impact of reinvestment and the source of the stock proceeds (i.e., external funds vs. deposit withdrawals). As discussed previously, two second-step offerings were completed in January 2021 and one was completed in March 2021. In comparison to the 70.50% average closing pro P/TB ratio of the three second-step offerings, the Company’s pro forma P/TB ratio of 76.16% at the midpoint value reflects an implied premium of 8.03%. At the super maximum of the offering range, the Company’s P/TB ratio of 90.01% reflects an implied premium of 27.67% relative to the three second-step offerings average P/TB ratio at closing.


RP® Financial, LC.       VALUATION ANALYSIS
      IV.24

 

Valuation Conclusion

Based on the foregoing, it is our opinion that, as of June 1, 2021, the estimated aggregate pro forma valuation of the shares of the Company to be issued and outstanding at the end of the conversion offering – including (1) newly-issued shares representing the MHC’s current ownership interest in the Company; (2) exchange shares issued to existing public shareholders of the Company; and (3) shares issued to the Foundation—was $190,282,790 at the midpoint, equal to 19,028,279 shares at a per share value of $10.00. The resulting range of value and pro forma shares, all based on $10.00 per share, are shown below.

 

     Total Shares     Exchange Shares
Issued to Public
Shareholders
    Offering
Shares
    Foundation
Shares
    Exchange
Ratio
 

Shares

          

Maximum, as Adjusted

     25,164,899       10,862,061       13,886,250       416,588       1.4535x  

Maximum

     21,882,521       9,445,271       12,075,000       362,250       1.2639x  

Midpoint

     19,028,279       8,213,279       10,500,000       315,000       1.0991x  

Minimum

     16,174,037       6,981,287       8,925,000       267,750       0.9342x  

Distribution of Shares

          

Maximum, as Adjusted

     100.00     43.16     55.18     1.66  

Maximum

     100.00     43.16     55.18     1.66  

Midpoint

     100.00     43.16     55.18     1.66  

Minimum

     100.00     43.16     55.18     1.66  

Aggregate Market Value at $10.00 per share

          

Maximum, as Adjusted

   $ 251,648,990     $ 108,620,610     $ 138,862,500     $ 4,165,880    

Maximum

   $ 218,825,210     $ 94,452,710     $ 120,750,000     $ 3,622,500    

Midpoint

   $ 190,282,790     $ 82,132,790     $ 105,000,000     $ 3,150,000    

Minimum

   $ 161,740,370     $ 69,812,870     $ 89,250,000     $ 2,677,500    

The pro forma valuation calculations relative to the Peer Group are shown in Table 4.3 and are detailed in Exhibit IV-7 and Exhibit IV-8.

Establishment of the Exchange Ratio

Conversion regulations provide that in a conversion of a mutual holding company, the minority shareholders are entitled to exchange the public shares for newly issued shares in the fully converted company. The Boards of Directors of the MHC and PDLB have independently determined the exchange ratio, which has been designed to preserve the current aggregate percentage ownership in the Company (adjusted for the dilution resulting from the consolidation


RP® Financial, LC.       VALUATION ANALYSIS
      IV.25

 

of the MHC’s unconsolidated equity into the Company). The exchange ratio to be received by the existing minority shareholders of the Company will be determined at the end of the offering, based on the total number of shares sold in the second-step conversion offering and the final appraisal. Based on the valuation conclusion herein, the resulting offering value and the $10.00 per share offering price, the indicated exchange ratio at the midpoint is 1.0991 shares of the Company for every one public share held by public shareholders. Furthermore, based on the offering range of value, the indicated exchange ratio is 0.9342 at the minimum, 1.2639 at the maximum and 1.4535 at the super maximum. RP Financial expresses no opinion on the proposed exchange of newly issued Company shares for the shares held by the public shareholders or on the proposed exchange ratio.


EXHIBITS


LIST OF EXHIBITS

 

Exhibit
Number
  

Description

I-1    Map of Office Locations
I-2    Audited Financial Statements
I-3    Key Operating Ratios
I-4    Investment Portfolio Composition
I-5    Yields and Costs
I-6    Loan Loss Allowance Activity
I-7    Interest Rate Risk Analysis
I-8    Fixed and Adjustable Rate Loans
I-9    Loan Portfolio Composition
I-10    Contractual Maturity by Loan Type
I-11    Loan Originations, Purchases, Sales and Repayments
I-12    Non-Performing Assets
I-13    Deposit Composition
I-14    Maturity of Time Deposits
I-15    Borrowing Activity
II-1    Description of Office Properties
II-2    Historical Interest Rates
III-1    Characteristics of Publicly-Traded Thrifts
III-2    Public Market Pricing of Mid-Atlantic and New England Thrifts
III-3    Public Market Pricing of Midwest Thrifts
III-4    Peer Group Market Area Comparative Analysis


LIST OF EXHIBITS (continued)

 

  

Exhibit
Number

  

Description

IV-1    Stock Prices: As of June 1, 2021
IV-2    Historical Stock Price Indices
IV-3    Stock Price Indices as of June 1, 2021
IV-4    New York Bank and Thrift Acquisitions 2017—Present
IV-5    Director and Senior Management Summary Resumes
IV-6    Pro Forma Regulatory Capital Ratios
IV-7    Pro Forma Analysis Sheet
IV-8    Pro Forma Effect of Conversion Proceeds
IV-9    Calculation of Minority Ownership Dilution in a Second-Step Offering
V-1    Firm Qualifications Statement


EXHIBIT I-1

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Map of Office Locations


Exhibit I-1

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Map of Office Locations

 

LOGO


EXHIBIT I-2

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Audited Financial Statements

[Incorporated by Reference]


EXHIBIT I-3

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Key Operating Ratios


Exhibit I-3

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Key Operating Ratios

 

     At or For the Three                                
     Months Ended March 31,    

At or For the Years Ended December 31,

 
     2021     2020     2020     2019     2018     2017     2016  

Performance Ratios:

              

Return on average assets

     0.72     (0.46 %)      0.32     (0.49 %)      0.28     (0.51 %)      0.20

Return on average equity

     6.16     (3.07 %)      2.42     (3.08 %)      1.60     (3.52 %)      1.53

Net interest rate spread (2)

     3.76     3.51     3.37     3.40     3.57     3.76     3.82

Net interest margin (3)

     4.00     3.87     3.69     3.79     3.92     4.02     4.02

Noninterest expense to average assets

     3.82     4.07     3.98     4.47     3.56     4.28     3.84

Efficiency ratio (4)

     76.94     102.62     86.09     114.19     87.26     103.53     92.15

Average interest-earning assets to average interest- bearing liabilities

     133.25     129.16     131.65     132.25     134.52     130.35     123.84

Average equity to average assets

     11.77     14.85     13.31     15.96     17.26     14.58     12.81

Capital Ratios:

              

Total capital to risk weighted assets (bank only)

     15.80     17.84     15.95     18.62     19.39     20.73     19.21

Tier 1 capital to risk weighted assets (bank only)

     14.54     16.59     14.70     17.37     18.14     19.48     17.96

Common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets ( bank only)

     14.54     16.59     14.70     17.37     18.14     19.48     17.96

Tier 1 capital to average assets (bank only)

     10.78     12.76     11.19     12.92     13.66     14.67     13.32

Asset Quality Ratios:

              

Allowance for loan losses as a percentage of total loans

     1.24     1.37     1.27     1.28     1.36     1.37     1.57

Allowance for loan losses as a percentage of nonperforming loans

     126.07     138.47     127.28     106.30     186.77     97.05     132.15

Net (charge-offs) recoveries to average outstanding loans

     (0.02 %)      0.00     0.01     (0.06 %)      0.04     (0.12 %)      0.13

Non-performing loans as a percentage of total loans

     0.99     1.00     1.00     1.20     0.73     1.41     1.19

Non-performing loans as a percentage of total assets

     0.86     0.85     0.86     1.10     0.64     1.23     1.04

Total non-performing assets as a percentage of total assets

     0.86     0.85     0.86     1.10     0.64     1.23     1.04

Total non-performing assets, accruing loans past due 90 days or more, and accruing troubled debt restructured loans as a percentage of total assets

     1.32     1.49     1.35     1.92     1.63     2.72     3.50

Other:

              

Number of offices (5)

     20       14       20       14       14       14       14  

Number of full-time equivalent employees (6)

     236       184       227       183       181       177       174  

 

(1)

Annualized where appropriate.

(2)

Net interest rate spread represents the difference between the weighted average yield on interest-earning assets and the weighted average rate of interest-bearing liabilities.

(3)

Net interest margin represents net interest income divided by average total interest-earning assets.

(4)

Efficiency ratio represents noninterest expense divided by the sum of net interest income and noninterest income.

(5)

Number of offices at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 included 6 offices due to acquisition of Mortgage World.

(6)

Number of full-time equivalent employees at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 included 46 full-time equivalent employees related to Mortgage World.

Source: Ponce Financial’s prospectus.


EXHIBIT I-4

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Investment Portfolio Composition


Exhibit I-4

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Investment Portfolio Composition

 

     At March 31,      At December 31,  
     2021      2020      2019      2018      2017      2016  
     Amortized      Fair      Amortized      Fair      Amortized      Fair      Amortized      Fair      Amortized      Fair      Amortized      Fair  
     Cost      Value      Cost      Value      Cost      Value      Cost      Value      Cost      Value      Cost      Value  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Available-for -Sale Securities:

                                   

U.S. Government and Federal Agencies

   $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ 16,373      $ 16,354      $ 20,924      $ 20,515      $ 24,911      $ 24,552      $ 41,906      $ 41,559  

U.S. Government Bonds

   $ 2,978      $ 2,988      $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —    

US Treasury

     —          —          —          —          —          —          4,997        4,995        —          —          —          —    

Corporate Bonds

     13,408        13,557        10,381        10,463        —          —          —          —          —          —          —          —    

Certificates of Deposit

     —          —          —          —          —          —          —          —          —          —          500        500  

Mortgage-Backed Securities

                                   

FHLMC Certificates

     —          —          3,201        3,196        —          —          —          —          —          —          192        216  

Collateralized Mortgage Obligations

     7,044        6,975        —          —          —          —          —          —          —          —          —          —    

FNMA Certificates

     7,161        7,161        3,506        3,567        4,680        4,659        778        759        1,118        1,103        3,600        3,606  

GNMA Certificates

     241        248        263        272        482        491        870        875        3,205        3,242        6,744        6,809  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total available-for-sale securities

   $ 30,832      $ 30,929      $ 17,351      $ 17,498      $ 21,535      $ 21,504      $ 27,569      $ 27,144      $ 29,234      $ 28,897      $ 52,942      $ 52,690  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Held-to-Maturity Securities:

                                   

FHLMC Certificates

   $ 1,732      $ 1,661      $ 1,743      $ 1,722      $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total held-to-maturity securities

   $ 1,732      $ 1,661      $ 1,743      $ 1,722      $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Source: Ponce Financial’s prospectus.


EXHIBIT I-5

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Yields and Costs


Exhibit I-5

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Yields and Costs

 

     For the Three Months Ended March 31,  
     2021     2020  
     Average                   Average                
     Outstanding             Average     Outstanding             Average  
     Balance      Interest      Yield/Rate (1)     Balance      Interest      Yield/Rate (1)  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Interest-earning assets:

                

Loans (2)

   $ 1,239,127      $ 14,925        4.88   $ 975,499      $ 12,782        5.27

Securities (3)

     22,516        176        3.17     18,218        83        1.83

Other (4)

     46,581        76        0.66     38,220        165        1.73

Total interest-earning assets

     1,308,224        15,177        4.70     1,031,937        13,030        5.07

Non-interest-earning assets

     63,951             37,467        

Total assets

   $ 1,372,175           $ 1,069,404        
  

 

 

         

 

 

       

Interest-bearing liabilities:

                

NOW/IOLA

   $ 33,085      $ 38        0.47   $ 29,026      $ 38        0.53

Money market

     277,104        304        0.44     160,471        618        1.54

Savings

     126,961        39        0.12     113,710        35        0.12

Certificates of deposit

     405,980        1,219        1.22     379,154        1,827        1.93

Total deposits

     843,130        1,600        0.77     682,361        2,518        1.48

Advance payments by borrowers

     8,899        1        0.05     7,980        1        0.05

Borrowings

     129,755        684        2.14     108,640        587        2.17
  

 

 

    

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

    

Total interest-bearing liabilities

     981,784        2,285        0.94     798,981        3,106        1.56

Non-interest-bearing liabilities:

                

Non-interest-bearing demand

     215,116        —            108,646        —       

Other non-interest-bearing liabilities

     13,754        —            2,968        —       
  

 

 

    

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

    

Total non-interest-bearing liabilities

     228,870        —            111,614        —       

Total liabilities

     1,210,654        2,285          910,595        3,106     

Total equity

     161,521             158,809        

Total liabilities and total equity

   $ 1,372,175           0.94   $ 1,069,404           1.56
  

 

 

         

 

 

       

Net interest income

      $ 12,892           $ 9,924     
     

 

 

         

 

 

    

Net interest rate spread (5)

  

 

 

          3.76  

 

 

          3.51

Net interest-earning assets (6)

   $ 326,440           $ 232,956        
  

 

 

         

 

 

       

Net interest margin (7)

           4.00           3.87

Average interest-earning assets to interest-bearing liabilities

           133.25           129.16

 

(1)

Annualized where appropriate.

(2)

Loans include loans and mortgage loans held for sale, at fair value.

(3)

Securities include available-for-sale securities and held-to-maturity securities.

(4)

Includes FHLBNY demand account and FHLBNY stock dividends.

(5)

Net interest rate spread represents the difference between the weighted average yield on interest-earning assets and the weighted average rate of interest-bearing liabilities.

(6)

Net interest-earning assets represent total interest-earning assets less total interest-earning liabilities.

(7)

Net interest margin represents net interest income divided by average total interest-earning assets.


Exhibit I-5 (continued)

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Yields and Costs

 

     For the Years Ended December 31,  
     2020     2019  
     Average                   Average                
     Outstanding             Average     Outstanding             Average  
     Balance      Interest      Yield/Rate     Balance      Interest      Yield/Rate  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Interest-earning assets:

                

Loans (1)

   $ 1,068,785      $ 52,389        4.90   $ 946,159      $ 49,306        5.21

Securities (2)

     16,473        515        3.13     24,778        362        1.46

Other (3)

     53,683        435        0.81     35,517        823        2.32
  

 

 

    

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

    

Total interest-earning assets

     1,138,941        53,339        4.68     1,006,454        50,491        5.02

Non-interest-earning assets

     56,415             35,504        
  

 

 

         

 

 

       

Total assets

   $ 1,195,356           $ 1,041,958        
  

 

 

         

 

 

       

Interest-bearing liabilities:

                

NOW/IOLA

   $ 29,792      $ 153        0.51   $ 27,539      $ 122        0.44

Money market

     207,454        1,869        0.90     124,729        2,548        2.04

Savings

     118,956        148        0.12     119,521        153        0.13

Certificates of deposit

     379,276        6,576        1.73     403,010        7,677        1.90

Total deposits

     735,478        8,746        1.19     674,799        10,500        1.56

Advance payments by borrowers

     8,463        4        0.05     8,608        4        0.05

Borrowings

     121,193        2,619        2.16     77,621        1,854        2.39
  

 

 

    

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

    

Total interest-bearing liabilities

     865,134        11,369        1.31     761,028        12,358        1.62

Non-interest-bearing liabilities:

                

Non-interest-bearing demand

     164,555        —            110,745        —       

Other non-interest-bearing liabilities

     6,603        —            3,900        —       

Total non-interest-bearing liabilities

     171,158        —            114,645        —       
  

 

 

    

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

    

Total liabilities

     1,036,292        11,369          875,673        12,358     

Total equity

     159,064             166,285        
  

 

 

         

 

 

       

Total liabilities and total equity

   $ 1,195,356           1.31   $ 1,041,958           1.62
  

 

 

         

 

 

       

Net interest income

      $ 41,970           $ 38,133     
     

 

 

         

 

 

    

Net interest rate spread (4)

           3.37           3.40
  

 

 

         

 

 

       

Net interest-earning assets (5)

   $ 273,807           $ 245,426        
  

 

 

         

 

 

       

Net interest margin (6)

           3.69           3.79

Average interest-earning assets to interest-bearing liabilities

           131.65           132.25

 

(1)

Loans include loans and mortgage loans held for sale, at fair value.

(2)

Securities include available-for-sale securities and held-to-maturity securities.

(3)

Includes FHLBNY demand account and FHLBNY stock dividends.

(4)

Net interest rate spread represents the difference between the weighted average yield on interest-earning assets and the weighted average rate of interest-bearing liabilities.

(5)

Net interest-earning assets represent total interest-earning assets less total interest-earning liabilities.

(6)

Net interest margin represents net interest income divided by average total interest-earning assets.

Source: Ponce Financial’s prospectus.


EXHIBIT I-6

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Loan Loss Allowance Activity


Exhibit I-6

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Loan Loss Allowance Activity

 

     For the Three Months                                
     Ended March 31,     For the Years Ended December 31,  
     2021     2020     2020     2019     2018     2017     2016  
                 (Dollars in thousands)  

Allowance at beginning of the period

   $ 14,870     $ 12,329     $ 12,329     $ 12,659     $ 11,071     $ 10,205     $ 9,484  

Provision (recovery) for loan losses

     686       1,146       2,443       258       1,249       1,716       (57

Charge-offs:

              

Mortgage loans:

              

1-4 family residential

              

Investor-owned

                       (8                 (38

Owner-occupied

                                          

Multifamily residential

                                         (3

Nonresidential properties

                                          

Construction and land

                                         (85

Nonmortgage loans:

              

Business

                       (724     (34     (1,423      

Consumer

     (50           (6           (14     (6     (13
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total charge-offs

     (50           (6     (732     (48     (1,429     (139

Recoveries:

              

Mortgage loans:

              

1-4 family residential

              

Investor-owned

                       23       1       25       18  

Owner-occupied

                             250       176       142  

Multifamily residential

                                   2       1  

Nonresidential properties

           2       4       9       9       9       9  

Construction and land

                                   2       5  

Nonmortgage loans:

              

Business

     2       7       95       110       122       359       733  

Consumer

                 5       2       5       6       9  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total recoveries

     2       9       104       144       387       579       917  

Net recoveries (charge-offs)

     (48     9       98       (588     339       (850     778  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Allowance at end of the period

   $ 15,508     $ 13,484     $ 14,870     $ 12,329     $ 12,659     $ 11,071     $ 10,205  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Allowance for loan losses as a percentage of nonperforming loans

     126.07     138.47     127.28     106.30     186.77     97.05     132.15

Allowance for loan losses as a percentage of total loans

     1.24     1.37     1.27     1.28     1.36     1.37     1.57

Net recoveries (charge-offs) to average loans outstanding during the period

     (0.02 %)      0.00     0.01     (0.06 %)      0.04     (0.12 %)      0.13

Source: Ponce Financial’s prospectus.


EXHIBIT I-7

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Interest Rate Risk Analysis


Exhibit I-7

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Interest Rate Risk Analysis

 

     Net Interest Income      Year 1 Change  
Rate Shift (1)    Year 1 Forecast      from Level  
     (Dollars in thousands)         

+400

   $ 47,318        (7.74 %) 

+300

     48,888        (4.68 %) 

+200

     50,095        (2.33 %) 

+100

     50,933        (0.69 %) 

Level

     51,289        —  

-100

     50,316        (1.90 %) 

 

(1)

Assumes an instantaneous uniform change in interest rates at all maturities.

 

                               EVE as a Percentage of
Present
Value of Assets (3)
 
            Estimated Increase                     
            (Decrease) in                  Increase  
Change in Interest    Estimated      EVE            EVE     (Decrease)  
Rates (basis points) (1)    EVE (2)      Amount     Percent            Ratio (4)     (basis points)  
                        (Dollars in thousands)               

+400

   $ 153,943      $ (19,157     (11.07 %)         11.39     (1,107

+300

     160,540        (12,560     (7.26 %)         11.68     (726

+200

     166,189        (6,911     (3.99 %)         11.89     (399

+100

     170,914        (2,186     (1.26 %)         12.02     (126

Level

     173,100        —                11.98     —    

-100

     184,496        11,396       6.58        12.56     658  

 

(1)

Assumes an instantaneous uniform change in interest rates at all maturities.

Source: Ponce Financial’s prospectus.


EXHIBIT I-8

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Fixed and Adjustable Rate Loans


Exhibit I-8

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Fixed and Adjustable Rate Loans

 

     Due After March 31, 2022  
     Fixed      Adjustable      Total  
     (In thousands)  

Mortgage loans:

        

1-4 family residential

        

Investor-owned

   $ 66,372      $ 246,377      $ 312,749  

Owner-occupied

     45,488        53,479        98,967  

Multifamily residential

     72,372        241,710        314,082  

Nonresidential properties

     33,464        178,058        211,522  

Construction and land

     —          31,779        31,779  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total mortgage loans

     217,696        751,403        969,099  

Nonmortgage loans:

        

Business loans (1)

     132,514        2,610        135,124  

Consumer loans (2)

     —          36,632        36,632  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total nonmortgage loans

     132,514        39,242        171,756  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 350,210      $ 790,645      $ 1,140,855  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1)

Includes $132.5 million of PPP loans at March 31, 2021.

(2)

Includes $35.9 million of loans related to Grain at March 31, 2021.

Source: Ponce Financial’s prospectus.


EXHIBIT I-9

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Loan Portfolio Composition


Exhibit I-9

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Loan Portfolio Composition

 

     At March 31,                             At December 31,                          
     2021     2020     2019     2018     2017     2016  
     Amount     Percent     Amount     Percent     Amount     Percent     Amount     Percent     Amount     Percent     Amount     Percent  
                                         (Dollars in thousands)                          

Mortgage loans:

                        

1-4 family residential

                        

Investor-owned

   $ 317,895       25.51   $ 319,596       27.27   $ 305,272       31.60   $ 303,197       32.61   $ 287,158       35.51   $ 227,409       34.90

Owner-occupied

     99,985       8.02     98,795       8.43     91,943       9.52     92,788       9.98     100,854       12.47     97,631       14.98

Multifamily residential

     315,078       25.28     307,411       26.23     250,239       25.90     232,509       25.01     188,550       23.31     158,200       24.28

Nonresidential properties

     215,340       17.28     218,929       18.68     207,225       21.45     196,917       21.18     151,193       18.70     121,500       18.64

Construction and land

     119,339       9.57     105,858       9.03     99,309       10.28     87,572       9.42     67,240       8.31     30,340       4.66
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total mortgage loans

     1,067,637       85.66     1,050,589       89.64     953,988       98.75     912,983       98.20     794,995       98.30     635,080       97.46

Nonmortgage loans:

                        

Business loans (1)

     142,135       11.40     94,947       8.10     10,877       1.13     15,710       1.69     12,873       1.59     15,719       2.41
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Consumer loans (2)

     36,706       2.94     26,517       2.26     1,231       0.12     1,068       0.11     886       0.11     843       0.13
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total nonmortgage loans

     178,841       14.34     121,464       10.36     12,108       1.25     16,778       1.80     13,759       1.70     16,562       2.54
     1,246,478       100.00     1,172,053       100.00     966,096       100.00     929,761       100.00     808,754       100.00     651,642       100.00
    

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net deferred loan origination costs

     (512       1,457         1,970         1,407         1,020         711    

Allowance for losses on loans

     (15,508       (14,870       (12,329       (12,659       (11,071       (10,205  
  

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

   

Loans, net

   $ 1,230,458       $ 1,158,640       $ 955,737       $ 918,509       $ 798,703       $ 642,148    
  

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

(1)

As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, business loans include $132.5 million and $85.3 million, respectively, of PPP loans.

(2)

As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, consumer loans include $35.9 million and $25.5 million, respectively, related to Grain.

Source: Ponce Financial’s prospectus.


EXHIBIT I-10

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Contractual Maturity by Loan Type


Exhibit I-10

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Contractual Maturity by Loan Type

 

            March 31, 2021         
            More than                
     One year      one year      More than         
     or less      to five years      five years      Total  
            (In thousands)         

Mortgage loans:

           

1-4 family residential

           

Investor-owned

   $ 5,146      $ 11,574      $ 301,175      $ 317,895  

Owner-occupied

     1,018        2,760        96,207        99,985  

Multifamily residential

     996        17,644        296,438        315,078  

Nonresidential properties

     3,818        24,162        187,360        215,340  

Construction and land

     87,560        31,779        —          119,339  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total mortgage loans

     98,538        87,919        881,180        1,067,637  

Nonmortgage loans:

           

Business loans (1)

     7,011        133,172        1,952        142,135  

Consumer loans (2)

     74        36,632        —          36,706  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total nonmortgage loans

     7,085        169,804        1,952        178,841  

Total

   $ 105,623      $ 257,723      $ 883,132      $ 1,246,478  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1)

Includes $132.5 million of PPP loans at March 31, 2021.

(2)

Includes $35.9 million of loans originated through Grain at March 31, 2021.

Source: Ponce Financial’s prospectus.


EXHIBIT I-11

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Loan Originations, Purchases, Sales and Repayments


Exhibit I-11

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Loan Originations, Purchases, Sales and Repayments

 

     Three
Months

Ended

March 31,

    Years Ended December 31,  
     2021     2020     2019     2018     2017     2016  
                       (in thousands)              

Total loans at beginning of the period

   $ 1,172,053     $ 966,096     $ 929,761     $ 808,754     $ 651,642     $ 576,611  

Loans originated:

            

Mortgage loans:

            

1-4 family residential

            

Investor-owned

     4,343       36,522       32,827       38,738       85,333       57,167  

Owner-occupied

     3,353       15,090       9,117       6,430       15,278       14,741  

Multifamily residential

     9,469       90,481       53,288       66,674       51,451       51,876  

Nonresidential properties

     5,815       34,154       37,975       72,926       56,327       31,408  

Construction and land

     25,250       81,465       69,240       55,295       69,011       5,693  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total mortgage loans

     48,230       257,712       202,447       240,063       277,400       160,885  

Nonmortgage loans:

            

Business (1)

     55,958       89,110       1,175       5,101       17,873       1,222  

Consumer (2)

     10,469       25,999       755       697       597       718  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total nonmortgage loans

     66,427       115,109       1,930       5,798       18,470       1,940  

Total loans originated

     114,657       372,821       204,377       245,861       295,870       162,825  

Loans purchased:

            

Mortgage loans:

            

1-4 family residential

     —         —         —         —         —         —    

Investor-owned

     —         —         —         —         —         —    

Owner-occupied

     —         —         —         —         —         —    

Multifamily residential

     —         —         —         —         —         —    

Nonresidential properties

     —         —         —         —         —         —    

Construction and land

     —         —         —         —         —         —    

Total mortgage loans

     —         —         —         —         —         —    

Nonmortgage loans:

            

Business

     —         —         —         —         —         —    

Consumer

     —         —         —         —         —         —    
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total nonmortgage loans

     —         —         —         —         —         —    

Total loans purchased

     —         —         —         —         —         —    

Loans sold:

            

Mortgage loans:

            

1-4 family residential

            

Investor-owned

     (1,029)       (781)       (3,520)       (1,759)       (139)       —    

Owner-occupied

     —         —         —         (2,502)       (819)       —    

Multifamily residential

     —         (2,748)       —         (535)       —         —    

Nonresidential properties

     —         (510)       (196)       (2,045)       (2,010)       —    

Construction and land

     —         —         —         —         —         —    

Total mortgage loans

     (1,029)       (4,039)       (3,716)       (6,841)       (2,968)       —    

Nonmortgage loans:

            

Business

     —         —         —         —         —         —    

Consumer

     —         —         —         —         —         —    
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total nonmortgage loans

     —         —         —         —         —         —    

Total loans sold

     (1,029     (4,039     (3,716     (6,841     (2,968     —    

Principal repayments and other

     (39,203     (162,825     (164,326     (118,013     (135,790     (87,794
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net loan activity

     74,425       205,957       36,335       121,007       157,112       75,031  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total loans at end of the period

   $ 1,246,478     $ 1,172,053     $ 966,096     $ 929,761     $ 808,754     $ 651,642  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1)

As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, business loans include $132.5 million and $85.3 million, respectively, of PPP loans.

(2)

As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, consumer loans include $35.9 million and $25.5 million, respectively, of loans originated pursuant to the Bank’s arrangement with Grain.

Source: Ponce Financial’s prospectus.


EXHIBIT I-12

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Non-Performing Assets


Exhibit I-12

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Non-Performing Assets

 

     At March                                
     31,     At December 31,  
     2021     2020     2019     2018     2017     2016  
                 (Dollars in
thousands)
             

Nonaccrual loans:

            

Mortgage loans:

            

1-4 family residential

            

Investor-owned

   $ 2,907     $ 2,808     $ 2,312     $ 205     $ 1,034     $ 809  

Owner-occupied

     1,585       1,053       1,009       1,092       2,624       1,463  

Multifamily residential

     946       946       —         16       521       —    

Nonresidential properties

     3,761       3,776       3,555       706       1,387       1,614  

Construction and land

     —         —         1,118       1,115       1,075       1,145  

Nonmortgage loans:

            

Business

     —         —         —         —         147       22  

Consumer

     —         —         —         —         —         —    
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total nonaccrual loans (not including non-accruing troubled debt restructured loans)

   $ 9,199     $ 8,583     $ 7,994     $ 3,134     $ 6,788     $ 5,053  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Non-accruing troubled debt restructured loans:

            

Mortgage loans:

            

1-4 family residential

            

Investor-owned

   $ 246     $ 249     $ 467     $ 1,053     $ 1,144     $ 1,240  

Owner-occupied

     2,195       2,197       2,491       1,987       2,693       646  

Multifamily residential

     —         —         —         —         —         —    

Nonresidential properties

     661       654       646       604       783       783  

Construction and land

     —         —         —         —         —         —    

Nonmortgage loans:

            

Business

     —         —         —         —         —         —    

Consumer

     —         —         —         —         —         —    
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total non-accruing troubled debt restructured loans

     3,102       3,100       3,604       3,644       4,620       2,669  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total nonaccrual loans

   $ 12,301     $ 11,683     $ 11,598     $ 6,778     $ 11,408     $ 7,722  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total nonperforming assets

   $ 12,301     $ 11,683     $ 11,598     $ 6,778     $ 11,408     $ 7,722  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Accruing loans past due 90 days or more:

            

Mortgage loans:

            

1-4 family residential

            

Investor-owned

   $ —       $ —       $ —       $ —       $ 7     $ —    

Owner-occupied

     —         —         —         —         —         —    

Multifamily residential

     —         —         —         —         —         —    

Nonresidential properties

     —         —         —         —         —         —    

Construction and land

     —         —         —         —         —         —    

Nonmortgage loans:

            

Business

     —         —         —         —         —         —    

Consumer

     —         —         —         —         —         —    
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total accruing loans past due 90 days or more

   $ —       $ —       $ —       $ —       $ 7     $ —    
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Accruing troubled debt restructured loans:

            

Mortgage loans:

            

1-4 family residential

            

Investor-owned

   $ 3,362     $ 3,378     $ 5,191     $ 5,192     $ 6,559     $ 6,422  

Owner-occupied

     2,466       2,505       2,090       3,456       4,756       7,271  

Multifamily residential

     —         —         —         —         —         —    

Nonresidential properties

     750       754       1,306       1,438       1,958       4,066  

Construction and land

     —         —         —         —         —         —    

Nonmortgage loans:

            

Business

     —         —         14       374       477       593  

Consumer

     —         —         —         —         —         —    
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total accruing troubled debt restructured loans

   $ 6,578     $ 6,637     $ 8,601     $ 10,460     $ 13,750     $ 18,352  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total nonperforming assets, accruing loans past due 90 days or more and accruing troubled debt restructured loans

   $ 18,879     $ 18,320     $ 20,199     $ 17,238     $ 25,165     $ 26,074  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total nonperforming loans to total gross loans

     99.00     1.00     1.20     0.73     1.41     1.20

Total nonperforming assets to total assets

     86.00     0.86     1.10     0.64     1.23     1.04
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total nonperforming assets, accruing loans past due 90 days or more and accruing troubled debt restructured loans to total assets

     1.32     1.35     1.92     1.63     2.72     3.50

Source: Ponce Financial’s prospectus.


EXHIBIT I-13

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Deposit Composition


Exhibit I-13

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Deposit Composition

 

     For the Three Months Ended                                                           
            March 31,                              For the Years Ended December 31,                     
     2021     2020     2019     2018  
                  Weighted                  Weighted                  Weighted                  Weighted  
     Average            Average     Average            Average     Average            Average     Average            Average  
     Balance      Percent     Rate     Balance      Percent     Rate     Balance      Percent     Rate     Balance      Percent     Rate  
                        (Dollars in thousands)                                        

Deposit type:

                            

NOW/IOLA

   $ 33,085        3.13     0.47   $ 29,792        3.31     0.51   $ 27,539        3.51     0.44   $ 28,182        3.74     0.36

Money market

     277,104        26.19     0.44     207,454        23.05     0.90     124,729        15.88     2.04     60,113        7.97     1.17

Savings

     126,961        12.00     0.12     118,956        13.22     0.12     119,521        15.22     0.13     125,395        16.63     0.61

Certificates of deposit

     405,980        38.35     1.22     379,276        42.14     1.73     403,010        51.30     1.90     439,737        58.32     1.73

Interest-bearing deposits

     843,130        79.67     0.77     735,478        81.72     1.19     674,799        85.90     1.56     653,427        86.66     1.31

Non-interest bearing demand

     215,116        20.33         164,555        18.28         110,745        14.10         100,628        13.34    

Total deposits

   $ 1,058,246        100.00     0.61   $ 900,033        100.00     0.97   $ 785,544        100.00     1.34   $ 754,055        100.00     1.14
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Source: Ponce Financial’s prospectus.


EXHIBIT I-14

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Maturity of Time Deposits


Exhibit I-14

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Maturity of Time Deposits

 

     Period to Maturity  
            More      More                       
            Than      Than      More                
     Less Than      One to      Two to      Than             Percent  
     or Equal to      Two      Three      Three             of  
     One Year      Years      Years      in Years      Total      Total  
                   (Dollars in thousands)                

Interest Rate Range:

                 

0.05% - 0.99%

   $ 139,125      $ 13,165      $ 552      $ 82,962      $ 235,804        53.69

1.00% - 1.49%

     46,025        15,483        9,346        4,241        75,095        17.11

1.50%- 1.99%

     25,567        5,977        2,391        6,094        40,029        9.11

2.00% - 2.49%

     36,591        30,233        2,255        3,718        72,797        16.58

2.50% - 2.99%

     7,031        1,482        505        3,486        12,504        2.85

3.00% and greater

     829        —          945        1,169        2,943        0.66

Total

   $ 255,168      $ 66,340      $ 15,994      $ 101,670      $ 439,172        100.00
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Source: Ponce Financial’s prospectus.


EXHIBIT I-15

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Borrowing Activity


Exhibit I-15

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Borrowing Activity

 

     At or For
the Three
Months
March 31,
    At or For the Years
December 31,
 
     2021     2020     2019     2018     2017     2016  
                 (Dollars in     Thousands)              

FHLBNY Advances:

            

Balance outstanding at end of period

   $ 109,255     $ 117,255     $ 104,404     $ 44,404     $ 16,400     $ 3,000  

Average amount outstanding during the period

     109,255       116,947       81,404       32,157       9,738       1,145  

Maximum outstanding at any month-end during the period

     109,255       152,284       169,404       44,404       55,000       12,000  

Weighted average interest rate during the period

     2.02     2.03     2.32     1.87     1.08     0.61

Weighted average interest rate at the end of the period

     2.02     1.90     2.21     2.72     2.02     0.78

Correspondent Borrowings:

            

Balance outstanding at end of period

   $ —       $ —       $ —          $ 25,000     $ 20,000     $ —    

Average amount outstanding during the period

     —         —         —         2,729       548       —    

Maximum outstanding at any month-end during the period

     —         —         —         25,000       20,000       —    

Weighted average interest rate during the period

     —         —         —         2.26     1.64     —    

Weighted average interest rate at the end of the period

     —         —         —         2.64     1.64     —    

Warehouse Lines of Credit:

            

Balance outstanding at end of period

   $ 11,664     $ 29,961     $ —       $ —       $ —       $ —    

Average amount outstanding during the period

     6,875       8,461       —         —         —         —    

Maximum outstanding at any month-end during the period

     17,385       29,961       —         —         —         —    

Weighted average interest rate during the period

     3.38     3.34     —         —         —         —    

Weighted average interest rate at the end of the period

     3.37     3.37     —         —         —         —    

Source: Ponce Financial’s prospectus.


EXHIBIT II-1

Description of Office Properties


Exhibit II-1

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Description of Office Properties

 

Location

   Leased or
Owned
     Year Acquired
or Leased
     Net Book Value of
Real Property (In
 
                   thousands)  

Main Office:

        

2244 Westchester Avenue (1)

     Owned        1995      $ 10,006  

Bronx, NY 10462

        

Other Properties:

        

980 Southern Blvd.

     Leased        1990        1,017  

Bronx, NY 10459

        

37-60 82nd Street

     Owned        2006        8,006  

Jackson Heights, NY 11372 51 East 170th Street

     Leased        2018        852  

Bronx, NY 10452 169-174 Smith Street

     Owned        1988        38  

Brooklyn, NY 11201 1925 Third Avenue

     Leased        2019        1,727  

New York, NY 1996 2244 Westchester Avenue (1)

     Owned        1995        811  

Bronx, NY 10462 5560 Broadway (2)

     Owned        1998        1,128  

Bronx, NY 10463 3405-3407 Broadway

     Leased        2001        427  

Astoria, NY 11106 3821 Bergenline Avenue

     Leased        2021        —    

Union City, NJ 07087 1900-1960 Ralph Avenue

     Leased        2007        471  

Brooklyn, NY 11234 20-47 86th Street

     Owned        2010        3,590  

Brooklyn, NY 11214 100-20 Queens Blvd

     Leased        2010        374  

Forest Hills, NY 11375

        

319 First Avenue

     Leased        2010        759  

New York, NY 10003 32-75 Steinway Street

     Leased        2020        242  

Astoria, NY 11103

        

375 Sylvan Avenue

     Leased        2020        —    

Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632

        

26-58 Coney Island Avenue

     Leased        2020        10  

Brooklyn, NY 11223

        

42 South Washington Avenue

     Leased        2020        3  

Bergenfield, NJ 07621

        

135-14 Northern Blvd.

     Leased        2020        —    

Flushing, NY 11354

        
        

 

 

 
         $ 29,461  
        

 

 

 

 

(1)

On May 19, 2021, PFS Services Corp., a subsidiary of Ponce Bank, signed a letter of intent to enter into the sale of the real property located at 2244 Westchester Avenue, Bronx, New York. Concurrent with the sale, Ponce Bank and the purchaser will enter into a fifteen-year agreement whereby the Bank lease back the real property.

(2)

On June 4, 2021, Ponce Bank completed the sale of the real property located at 5560 Broadway, Bronx, New York. Concurrent with the sale of the real property, the Ponce Bank and the purchaser entered into a fifteen-year agreement whereby the Bank lease back the real property.

Source: Ponce Financial’s prospectus.


EXHIBIT II-2

Historical Interest Rates


Exhibit II-2

Historical Interest Rates(1)

 

Year/Qtr. Ended

   Prime
Rate
    90 Day
T-Note
    One Year
T-Note
    10 Year
T-Note
 

2008: Quarter 1

     5.25     1.38     1.55     3.45

Quarter 2

     5.00     1.90     2.36     3.99

Quarter 3

     5.00     0.92     1.78     3.85

Quarter 4

     3.25     0.11     0.37     2.25

2009: Quarter 1

     3.25     0.21     0.57     2.71

Quarter 2

     3.25     0.19     0.56     3.53

Quarter 3

     3.25     0.14     0.40     3.31

Quarter 4

     3.25     0.06     0.47     3.85

2010: Quarter 1

     3.25     0.16     0.41     3.84

Quarter 2

     3.25     0.18     0.32     2.97

Quarter 3

     3.25     0.18     0.32     2.97

Quarter 4

     3.25     0.12     0.29     3.30

2011: Quarter 1

     3.25     0.09     0.30     3.47

Quarter 2

     3.25     0.03     0.19     3.18

Quarter 3

     3.25     0.02     0.13     1.92

Quarter 4

     3.25     0.02     0.12     1.89

2012: Quarter 1

     3.25     0.07     0.19     2.23

Quarter 2

     3.25     0.09     0.21     1.67

Quarter 3

     3.25     0.10     0.17     1.65

Quarter 4

     3.25     0.05     0.16     1.78

2013: Quarter 1

     3.25     0.07     0.14     1.87

Quarter 2

     3.25     0.04     0.15     2.52

Quarter 3

     3.25     0.02     0.10     2.64

Quarter 4

     3.25     0.07     0.13     3.04

2014: Quarter 1

     3.25     0.05     0.13     2.73

Quarter 2

     3.25     0.04     0.11     2.53

Quarter 3

     3.25     0.02     0.13     2.52

Quarter 4

     3.25     0.04     0.25     2.17

2015: Quarter 1

     3.25     0.03     0.26     1.94

Quarter 2

     3.25     0.01     0.28     2.35

Quarter 3

     3.25     0.00     0.33     2.06

Quarter 4

     3.50     0.16     0.65     2.27

2016: Quarter 1

     3.50     0.21     0.59     1.78

Quarter 2

     3.50     0.26     0.45     1.49

Quarter 3

     3.50     0.29     0.59     1.60

Quarter 4

     3.75     0.51     0.85     2.45

2017: Quarter 1

     4.00     0.76     1.03     2.40

Quarter 2

     4.25     1.03     1.24     2.31

Quarter 3

     4.25     1.06     1.31     2.33

Quarter 4

     4.50     1.39     1.76     2.40

2018: Quarter 1

     4.75     1.73     2.09     2.74

Quarter 2

     5.00     1.93     2.33     2.85

Quarter 3

     5.25     2.19     2.59     3.05

Quarter 4

     5.50     2.45     2.63     2.69

2019: Quarter 1

     5.50     2.40     2.40     2.41

Quarter 2

     5.00     2.12     1.92     2.00

Quarter 3

     4.75     1.88     1.75     1.68

Quarter 4

     4.75     1.55     1.59     1.92

2020: Quarter 1

     3.25     0.11     0.17     0.70

Quarter 2

     3.25     0.16     0.16     0.66

Quarter 3

     3.25     0.10     0.12     0.69

Quarter 4

     3.25     0.09     0.10     0.93

2021: Quarter 1

     3.25     0.05     0.07     1.74

As of June 1, 2021

     3.25     0.02     0.04     1.62

 

(1)

End of period data.

Sources: Federal Reserve and The Wall Street Journal.


EXHIBIT III-1

Characteristics of Publicly-Traded Thrifts


Exhibit III-1

Characteristics of Publicly-Traded Thrifts

June 1, 2021

 

                                                        As of
June 1, 2021
 

Ticker

  

Financial Institution

   Exchange    Region    City    State    Total
Assets
     Offices      Fiscal
Mth End
     Conv.
Date
   Stock
Price
     Market
Value
 
                              ($Mil)                         ($)      ($Mil)  

AFBI

   Affinity Bancshares, Inc.    NASDAQCM    SE    Covington    GA    $ 797        3        Dec      4/27/17    $ 12.55      $ 86  

AX

   Axos Financial, Inc.    NYSE    WE    Las Vegas    NV    $ 14,828        1        Jun      3/14/05    $ 48.26      $ 2,859  

BYFC

   Broadway Financial Corporation    NASDAQCM    WE    Los Angeles    CA    $ 480        4        Dec      1/8/96    $ 2.56      $ 48  

CFFN

   Capitol Federal Financial, Inc.    NASDAQGS    MW    Topeka    KS    $ 9,698        54        Sep      3/31/99    $ 13.06      $ 1,770  

CARV

   Carver Bancorp, Inc.    NASDAQCM    MA    New York    NY    $ 686        7        Mar      10/24/94    $ 9.14      $ 29  

CBMB

   CBM Bancorp, Inc.    NASDAQCM    MA    Baltimore    MD    $ 240        4        Dec      9/27/18    $ 14.60      $ 51  

CNNB

   Cincinnati Bancorp, Inc.    NASDAQCM    MW    Cincinnati    OH    $ 241        6        Dec      10/14/15    $ 13.90      $ 41  

ESBK

   Elmira Savings Bank    NASDAQCM    MA    Elmira    NY    $ 659        12        Dec      3/1/85    $ 14.18      $ 50  

ESSA

   ESSA Bancorp, Inc.    NASDAQGS    MA    Stroudsburg    PA    $ 1,970        23        Sep      4/3/07    $ 16.01      $ 160  

FFBW

   FFBW, Inc.    NASDAQCM    MW    Brookfield    WI    $ 338        6        Dec      10/10/17    $ 11.22      $ 70  

FNWB

   First Northwest Bancorp    NASDAQGM    WE    Port Angeles    WA    $ 1,736        12        Dec      1/29/15    $ 17.75      $ 162  

FSBW

   FS Bancorp, Inc.    NASDAQCM    WE    Mountlake Terrace    WA    $ 2,176        23        Dec      7/9/12    $ 71.29      $ 295  

GBNY

   Generations Bancorp NY, Inc.    NASDAQCM    MA    Seneca Falls    NY    $ 382        10        Dec      7/10/06    $ 9.95      $ 25  

HONE

   HarborOne Bancorp, Inc.    NASDAQGS    NE    Brockton    MA    $ 4,606        29        Dec      6/29/16    $ 14.90      $ 784  

HIFS

   Hingham Institution for Savings    NASDAQGM    NE    Hingham    MA    $ 2,844        9        Dec      12/13/88    $ 295.74      $ 634  

HMNF

   HMN Financial, Inc.    NASDAQGM    MW    Rochester    MN    $ 971        14        Dec      6/30/94    $ 20.74      $ 95  

HFBL

   Home Federal Bancorp, Inc. of Louisiana    NASDAQCM    SW    Shreveport    LA    $ 563        8        Jun      1/18/05    $ 17.25      $ 54  

HVBC

   HV Bancorp, Inc.    NASDAQCM    MA    Doylestown    PA    $ 596        6        Dec      1/11/17    $ 20.66      $ 45  

IROQ

   IF Bancorp, Inc.    NASDAQCM    MW    Watseka    IL    $ 745        8        Jun      7/7/11    $ 22.59      $ 69  

KRNY

   Kearny Financial Corp.    NASDAQGS    MA    Fairfield    NJ    $ 7,358        49        Jun      2/23/05    $ 13.11      $ 1,022  

MSVB

   Mid-Southern Bancorp, Inc.    NASDAQCM    MW    Salem    IN    $ 245        3        Dec      4/8/98    $ 15.45      $ 46  

NYCB

   New York Community Bancorp, Inc.    NYSE    MA    Westbury    NY    $ 57,657        238        Dec      11/23/93    $ 12.18      $ 5,664  

NFBK

   Northfield Bancorp, Inc. (Staten Island, NY)    NASDAQGS    MA    Woodbridge    NJ    $ 5,577        38        Dec      11/7/07    $ 16.76      $ 860  

NWBI

   Northwest Bancshares, Inc.    NASDAQGS    MA    Warren    PA    $ 14,270        171        Dec      11/4/94    $ 14.35      $ 1,826  

PCSB

   PCSB Financial Corporation    NASDAQCM    MA    Yorktown Heights    NY    $ 1,855        16        Jun      4/20/17    $ 18.32      $ 273  

PVBC

   Provident Bancorp, Inc.    NASDAQCM    NE    Amesbury    MA    $ 1,552        7        Dec      7/15/15    $ 16.39      $ 239  

PROV

   Provident Financial Holdings, Inc.    NASDAQGS    WE    Riverside    CA    $ 1,189        14        Jun      6/27/96    $ 17.70      $ 133  

PFS

   Provident Financial Services, Inc.    NYSE    MA    Jersey City    NJ    $ 13,130        100        Dec      1/15/03    $ 25.47      $ 1,952  

PBIP

   Prudential Bancorp, Inc.    NASDAQGM    MA    Philadelphia    PA    $ 1,204        10        Sep      3/29/05    $ 13.90      $ 109  

RNDB

   Randolph Bancorp, Inc.    NASDAQGM    NE    Stoughton    MA    $ 738        5        Dec      7/1/16    $ 22.32      $ 110  

RVSB

   Riverview Bancorp, Inc.    NASDAQGS    WE    Vancouver    WA    $ 1,549        16        Mar      10/26/93    $ 7.07      $ 158  

STXB

   Spirit of Texas Bancshares, Inc.    NASDAQGS    SW    Conroe    TX    $ 3,170        37        Dec      5/3/18    $ 22.98      $ 394  

SBT

   Sterling Bancorp, Inc. (Southfield, MI)    NASDAQCM    MW    Southfield    MI    $ 3,694        30        Dec      11/16/17    $ 4.96      $ 249  

TBNK

   Territorial Bancorp Inc.    NASDAQGS    WE    Honolulu    HI    $ 2,140        30        Dec      7/13/09    $ 26.42      $ 242  

TSBK

   Timberland Bancorp, Inc.    NASDAQGM    WE    Hoquiam    WA    $ 1,699        24        Sep      1/12/98    $ 29.68      $ 248  

TBK

   Triumph Bancorp, Inc.    NASDAQGS    SW    Dallas    TX    $ 6,100        65        Dec      11/6/14    $ 84.47      $ 2,084  

TRST

   TrustCo Bank Corp NY    NASDAQGS    MA    Glenville    NY    $ 6,046        147        Dec         $ 37.80      $ 729  

WSBF

   Waterstone Financial, Inc.    NASDAQGS    MW    Wauwatosa    WI    $ 2,198        16        Dec      10/4/05    $ 19.95      $ 477  

WNEB

   Western New England Bancorp, Inc.    NASDAQGS    NE    Westfield    MA    $ 2,464        27        Dec      12/27/01    $ 8.46      $ 202  

WMPN

   William Penn Bancorp    NASDAQCM    MA    Bristol    PA    $ 817        14        Jun      4/15/08    $ 11.28      $ 171  

WSFS

   WSFS Financial Corporation    NASDAQGS    MA    Wilmington    DE    $ 14,730        94        Dec      11/26/86    $ 54.02      $ 2,568  

WVFC

   WVS Financial Corp.    NASDAQGM    MA    Pittsburgh    PA    $ 314        6        Jun      11/29/93    $ 16.30      $ 28  

BCOW

   1895 Bancorp of Wisconsin, Inc.    NASDAQCM    MW    Greenfield    WI    $ 517        6        Dec      1/8/19    $ 14.87      $ 70  

BSBK

   Bogota Financial Corp.    NASDAQCM    MA    Teaneck    NJ    $ 844        7        Dec      1/15/20    $ 10.05      $ 140  

CLBK

   Columbia Financial, Inc.    NASDAQGS    MA    Fair Lawn    NJ    $ 9,040        61        Dec      4/19/18    $ 17.69      $ 1,929  

FSEA

   First Seacoast Bancorp    NASDAQCM    NE    Dover    NH    $ 465        5        Dec      7/16/19    $ 9.42      $ 56  

GCBC

   Greene County Bancorp, Inc.    NASDAQCM    MA    Catskill    NY    $ 2,143        19        Jun      12/30/98    $ 30.00      $ 255  

KFFB

   Kentucky First Federal Bancorp    NASDAQGM    MW    Hazard    KY    $ 333        7        Jun      3/2/05    $ 6.93      $ 57  

LSBK

   Lake Shore Bancorp, Inc.    NASDAQGM    MA    Dunkirk    NY    $ 706        12        Dec      4/3/06    $ 14.77      $ 84  

MGYR

   Magyar Bancorp, Inc.    NASDAQGM    MA    New Brunswick    NJ    $ 759        7        Sep      1/23/06    $ 13.96      $ 81  

OFED

   Oconee Federal Financial Corp.    NASDAQCM    SE    Seneca    SC    $ 534        8        Jun      1/13/11    $ 25.58      $ 143  

PDLB

   PDL Community Bancorp    NASDAQGM    MA    Bronx    NY    $ 1,434        14        Dec      9/29/17    $ 13.78      $ 232  

PBFS

   Pioneer Bancorp, Inc.    NASDAQCM    MA    Albany    NY    $ 1,788        23        Jun      7/17/19    $ 11.75      $ 295  

RBKB

   Rhinebeck Bancorp, Inc.    NASDAQCM    MA    Poughkeepsie    NY    $ 1,197        17        Dec      1/16/19    $ 10.57      $ 114  

TFSL

   TFS Financial Corporation    NASDAQGS    MW    Cleveland    OH    $ 14,465        37        Sep      4/20/07    $ 22.35      $ 6,187  

Source: S&P Global Market Intelligence.


EXHIBIT III-2

Public Market Pricing of Mid-Atlantic and New England Thrifts


Exhibit III-2

Public Market Pricing of Mid-Atlantic and New England Institutions

As of June 1, 2021

 

          Market      Per Share Data                      
          Capitalization      Core     Book             Dividends(3)     Financial Characteristics(5)  
               Price/      Market      12 Month     Value/      Pricing Ratios(2)      Amount/            Payout     Total      Equity/     Tang. Eq./     NPAs/     Reported      Core  
               Share      Value      EPS(1)     Share      P/E      P/B     P/A     P/TB     P/Core      Share      Yield     Ratio(4)     Assets      Assets     T. Assets     Assets     ROAA     ROAE      ROAA      ROAE  
               ($)      ($Mil)      ($)     ($)      (x)      (%)     (%)     (%)     (x)      ($)      (%)     (%)     ($Mil)      (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)      (%)      (%)  

All Non-MHC Public Companies(6)

 

Averages

      $ 27.52      $ 646.78      $ 2.30     $ 20.95        13.52        114.1     14.2     126.5     14.28      $ 0.48        2.19     47   $ 4,625        12.83     11.61     0.73     1.04     8.42      1.08      8.76

Median

         $ 16.35      $ 186.68      $ 1.14     $ 16.88        13.42        105.0     13.3     112.1     13.67      $ 0.36        2.01     35   $ 1,718        11.61     10.60     0.54     0.83     7.09      0.88      7.22

Comparable Group

 

Averages

      $ 30.72      $ 797.04      $ 2.26     $ 22.77        13.98x        108.03     13.35     121.82     15.06x      $ 0.55        2.50     50.98   $ 6,350        12.59     11.58     0.80     0.94     7.96      0.91      7.55

Medians

         $ 15.46      $ 220.81      $ 0.98     $ 16.69        14.10x        105.51     13.70     115.77     14.16x      $ 0.44        2.41     46.31   $ 1,912        11.90     10.47     0.82     0.82     6.92      0.86      7.19

Comparable Group

 

CARV

   Carver Bancorp, Inc.    NY    $ 9.14      $ 29.44      ($ 1.49   $ 9.43        NM        96.93     4.11     96.93     NM      $ 0.00        0.00     NA     $ 686        6.76     6.76     1.95     -0.74     -9.86      -0.85      -11.28

CBMB

   CBM Bancorp, Inc.    MD    $ 14.60      $ 51.48      $ 0.24     $ 14.15        NM        103.21     21.47     103.21     NM        NA        NA       192.31   $ 240        20.80     20.80     0.48     0.38     1.67      0.35      1.53

ESBK

   Elmira Savings Bank    NY    $ 14.18      $ 50.23      $ 1.24     $ 17.33        11.44x        81.84     7.62     102.38     11.45x      $ 0.60        4.23     48.39   $ 659        9.32     7.60     NA       0.66     7.20      0.66      7.22

ESSA

   ESSA Bancorp, Inc.    PA    $ 16.01      $ 160.03      $ 1.53     $ 18.51        10.26x        86.51     8.72     93.30     10.43x      $ 0.48        3.00     29.49   $ 1,970        10.08     9.42     1.27     0.83     8.21      0.81      8.08

GBNY

   Generations Bancorp NY, Inc.    NY    $ 9.95      $ 25.39      $ 0.38     $ 17.06        11.57x        58.31     6.40     60.66     26.07x        NA        NA       NA     $ 382        10.98     10.60     NA       0.57     6.71      0.25      2.92

HVBC

   HV Bancorp, Inc.    PA    $ 20.66      $ 44.95      $ 3.37     $ 18.32        6.04x        112.78     7.54     112.78     6.14x        NA        NA       NA     $ 596        6.69     6.69     0.53     1.26     19.65      1.24      19.34

KRNY

   Kearny Financial Corp.    NJ    $ 13.11      $ 1,022.36      $ 0.73     $ 12.98        18.73x        100.98     14.60     126.56     18.02x      $ 0.40        3.05     50.00   $ 7,358        14.46     11.88     1.08     0.81     5.33      0.85      5.54

NYCB

   New York Community Bancorp, Inc.    NY    $ 12.18      $ 5,664.48      $ 0.96     $ 13.53        10.88x        90.01     9.91     146.48     12.68x      $ 0.68        5.58     60.71   $ 57,657        11.79     7.91     0.10     1.01     8.24      0.88      7.15

NFBK

   Northfield Bancorp, Inc. (Staten Island, NY)    NJ    $ 16.76      $ 859.84      $ 1.14     $ 14.60        16.12x        114.76     15.53     121.51     14.76x      $ 0.52        3.10     44.23   $ 5,577        13.53     12.88     0.28     0.94     6.89      1.03      7.54

NWBI

   Northwest Bancshares, Inc.    PA    $ 14.35      $ 1,826.08      $ 1.01     $ 12.11        16.88x        118.47     12.79     160.10     14.22x      $ 0.80        5.57     90.59   $ 14,270        10.80     8.22     1.72     0.78     6.96      0.92      8.25

PCSB

   PCSB Financial Corporation    NY    $ 18.32      $ 273.42      $ 0.80     $ 16.99        22.90x        107.82     15.77     110.37     22.95x      $ 0.24        1.31     22.50   $ 1,855        14.63     14.34     NA       0.67     4.38      0.67      4.37

PFS

   Provident Financial Services, Inc.    NJ    $ 25.47      $ 1,952.27      $ 1.80     $ 21.17        14.55x        120.29     15.09     167.56     14.16x      $ 0.92        3.61     52.57   $ 13,130        12.55     9.34     0.82     1.08     8.43      1.11      8.65

PBIP

   Prudential Bancorp, Inc.    PA    $ 13.90      $ 109.24      $ 0.64     $ 16.40        14.63x        84.77     9.17     89.15     21.71x      $ 0.28        2.01     29.47   $ 1,204        10.82     10.34     1.12     0.64     5.96      0.43      3.99

TRST

   TrustCo Bank Corp NY    NY    $ 37.80      $ 729.09      $ 2.76     $ 29.61        13.70x        127.68     12.06     127.80     13.70x      $ 1.36        3.60     49.37   $ 6,046        9.44     9.44     0.55     0.93     9.49      0.93      9.49

WMPN

   William Penn Bancorp    PA    $ 11.28      $ 171.12      $ 0.28     $ 14.17        NM        79.58     20.93     81.81     NM      $ 0.13        1.14     113.10   $ 817        26.31     25.78     0.86     0.25     1.89      0.53      3.93

WSFS

   WSFS Financial Corporation    DE    $ 54.02      $ 2,567.68      $ 3.34     $ 37.27        15.75x        144.92     17.42     210.55     16.19x      $ 0.52        0.96     14.29   $ 14,730        12.01     8.58     0.34     1.23     9.23      1.19      8.95

WVFC

   WVS Financial Corp.    PA    $ 16.30      $ 28.33      $ 0.77     $ 20.24        20.63x        80.55     9.87     80.55     21.20x      $ 0.40        2.45     50.63   $ 314        12.25     12.25     0.00     0.41     3.73      0.40      3.62

HONE

   HarborOne Bancorp, Inc.    MA    $ 14.90      $ 784.19      $ 1.13     $ 12.41        13.42x        120.02     18.19     134.22     13.18x      $ 0.20        1.34     12.61   $ 4,606        15.16     13.77     1.02     1.36     8.61      1.39      8.78

HIFS

   Hingham Institution for Savings    MA    $ 295.74      $ 633.59      $ 22.69     $ 144.12        9.96x        205.20     22.25     205.20     13.03x      $ 1.96        0.66     8.56   $ 2,844        10.84     10.84     0.06     2.36     23.21      1.81      17.74

PVBC

   Provident Bancorp, Inc.    MA    $ 16.39      $ 239.39      $ 0.92     $ 12.61        19.51x        130.02     19.62     130.02     17.90x      $ 0.16        0.98     15.48   $ 1,552        15.09     15.09     NA       1.05     6.31      1.14      6.88

RNDB

   Randolph Bancorp, Inc.    MA    $ 22.32      $ 110.15      $ 4.90     $ 18.80        4.63x        118.71     16.22     118.75     4.56x        NA        NA       NA     $ 738        13.66     13.66     1.38     3.49     26.37      3.55      26.80

WNEB

   Western New England Bancorp, Inc.    MA    $ 8.46      $ 202.23      $ 0.61     $ 9.07        14.10x        93.32     8.44     100.22     13.81x      $ 0.20        2.36     33.33   $ 2,464        9.05     8.48     NA       0.62     6.49      0.64      6.64

MHCs

 

BSBK

   Bogota Financial Corp.    NJ    $ 10.05      $ 140.09      $ 0.37     $ 9.92        20.10x        101.33     17.18     101.61     26.96x        NA        NA       NA     $ 844        16.95     16.92     NA       0.85     4.99      0.63      3.70

CLBK

   Columbia Financial, Inc.    NJ    $ 17.69      $ 1,929.12      $ 0.71     $ 9.17        26.40x        192.85     21.33     210.81     24.88x        NA        NA       NA     $ 9,040        11.06     10.21     NA       0.81     7.03      0.86      7.46

GCBC

   Greene County Bancorp, Inc.    NY    $ 30.00      $ 255.40      $ 2.47     $ 16.34        12.15x        183.63     11.92     183.63     12.15x      $ 0.48        1.60     19.43   $ 2,143        6.49     6.49     0.25     1.16     15.81      1.16      15.81

LSBK

   Lake Shore Bancorp, Inc.    NY    $ 14.77      $ 83.79      $ 0.93     $ 14.82        15.71x        99.65     12.14     99.65     15.93x      $ 0.52        3.52     54.26   $ 706        12.18     12.18     0.45     0.81     6.45      0.80      6.37

MGYR

   Magyar Bancorp, Inc.    NJ    $ 13.96      $ 81.12      $ 0.62     $ 10.24        19.39x        136.37     10.69     136.37     22.68x        NA        NA       NA     $ 759        7.84     7.84     1.85     0.56     7.32      0.48      6.26

PDLB

   PDL Community Bancorp    NY    $ 13.78      $ 231.63      $ 0.30     $ 9.47        29.96x        145.47     16.36     145.47     NM        NA        NA       NA     $ 1,434        11.24     11.24     1.32     0.59     4.71      0.39      3.08

PBFS

   Pioneer Bancorp, Inc.    NY    $ 11.75      $ 294.62      $ 0.18     $ 8.80        NM        133.48     17.07     139.09     NM        NA        NA       NA     $ 1,788        12.79     12.33     1.07     0.39     2.70      0.27      1.92

RBKB

   Rhinebeck Bancorp, Inc.    NY    $ 10.57      $ 113.58      $ 0.75     $ 10.68        13.91x        99.01     9.83     101.35     14.06x        NA        NA       NA     $ 1,197        9.93     9.72     0.53     0.72     7.05      0.72      6.97

FSEA

   First Seacoast Bancorp    NH    $ 9.42      $ 56.33      $ 0.23     $ 9.78        31.40x        96.31     12.23     96.31     NM        NA        NA       NA     $ 465        12.70     12.70     0.01     0.37     2.95      0.29      2.28

 

(1)

Core income, on a diluted per-share basis. Core income is net income after taxes and before extraordinary items, less net income attributable to noncontrolling interest, gain on the sale of securities, amortization of intangibles, goodwill and nonrecurring items. Assumed tax rate is 35%.

(2)

P/E = Price to earnings; P/B = Price to book; P/A = Price to assets; P/TB = Price to tangible book value; and P/Core = Price to core earnings. P/E and P/Core =NM if the ratio is negative or above 35x.

(3)

Indicated 12 month dividend, based on last quarterly dividend declared.

(4)

Indicated 12 month dividend as a percent of trailing 12 month earnings.

(5)

Equity and tangible equity equal common equity and tangible common equity, respectively. ROAA (return on average assets) and ROAE (return on average equity) are indicated ratios based on trailing 12 month earnings and average equity and assets balances.

(6)

Excludes from averages and medians those companies the subject of actual or rumored acquisition activities or unusual operating characteristics.

Source:    SNL Financial, LC. and RP Financial, LC. calculations. The information provided in this report has been obtained from sources we believe are reliable, but we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of such information.

Copyright (c) 2021 by RP® Financial, LC.


EXHIBIT III-3

Public Market Pricing of Midwest Thrifts


Exhibit III-3

Public Market Pricing of Midwest Institutions

As of June 1, 2021

 

                 Market      Per Share Data                                                                                                         
                 Capitalization      Core     Book                                      Dividends(3)     Financial Characteristics(5)  
                 Price/      Market      12 Month     Value/      Pricing Ratios(2)      Amount/            Payout     Total      Equity/     Tang. Eq./     NPAs/     Reported      Core  
                 Share      Value      EPS(1)     Share      P/E      P/B     P/A     P/TB     P/Core      Share      Yield     Ratio(4)     Assets      Assets     T. Assets     Assets     ROAA     ROAE      ROAA      ROAE  
                 ($)      ($Mil)      ($)     ($)      (x)      (%)     (%)     (%)     (x)      ($)      (%)     (%)     ($Mil)      (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)      (%)      (%)  

All Non-MHC Public Companies(6)

 

Averages

      $ 27.52      $ 646.78      $ 2.30     $ 20.95        13.52        114.1     14.2     126.5     14.28      $ 0.48        2.19     47   $ 4,625        12.83     11.61     0.73     1.04     8.42      1.08      8.76

Median

         $ 16.35      $ 186.68      $ 1.14     $ 16.88        13.42        105.0     13.3     112.1     13.67      $ 0.36        2.01     35   $ 1,718        11.61     10.60     0.54     0.83     7.09      0.88      7.22

Comparable Group

 

Averages

      $ 15.23      $ 351.98      $ 1.57     $ 15.46        11.30x        99.82     16.21     100.36     11.47x      $ 0.26        1.45     58.28   $ 2,266        16.27     14.37     0.86     1.30     8.17      1.39      9.02

Medians

         $ 14.67      $ 82.24      $ 1.68     $ 14.74        8.32x        95.16     17.93     95.73     8.29x      $ 0.21        1.05     30.87   $ 858        15.48     13.06     0.54     0.80     6.42      0.80      6.45

Comparable Group

 

CFFN

   Capitol Federal Financial, Inc.      KS      $ 13.06      $ 1,769.56      $ 0.56     $ 9.21        23.32x        141.79     18.69     143.36     23.53x      $ 0.34        2.60     155.36   $ 9,698        13.18     13.06     NA       0.81     5.97      0.80      5.92

CNNB

   Cincinnati Bancorp, Inc.      OH      $ 13.90      $ 41.24      $ 1.68     $ 14.40        8.32x        96.54     17.17     96.92     8.29x        NA        NA       NA     $ 241        17.78     17.72     0.54     2.01     13.50      2.02      13.55

FFBW

   FFBW, Inc.      WI      $ 11.22      $ 69.74        NA     $ 13.60        NM        82.52     24.21     83.96     NM        NA        NA       NA     $ 338        29.33     NA       0.46     0.66     2.27      NA        NA  

HMNF

   HMN Financial, Inc.      MN      $ 20.74      $ 94.75      $ 2.66     $ 22.11        7.80x        93.78     10.14     94.53     7.79x      $ 0.00        0.00     NA     $ 971        10.82     10.74     0.37     1.38     12.33      1.38      12.34

IROQ

   IF Bancorp, Inc.      IL      $ 22.59      $ 68.73      $ 1.75     $ 25.76        12.08x        87.66     9.82     87.66     12.88x      $ 0.30        1.33     16.04   $ 745        11.20     11.20     0.20     0.79     6.87      0.74      6.45

MSVB

   Mid-Southern Bancorp, Inc.      IN      $ 15.45      $ 46.27      $ 0.37     $ 15.09        NM        102.35     20.01     102.35     NM      $ 0.12        0.78     25.64   $ 245        19.55     19.55     0.81     0.53     2.40      0.49      2.23

SBT

   Sterling Bancorp, Inc. (Southfield, MI)      MI      $ 4.96      $ 248.94      ($ 0.12   $ 6.44        NM        77.05     6.71     77.05     NM      $ 0.00        0.00     NA     $ 3,694        8.71     8.71     2.98     -0.17     -1.99      -0.17      -1.96

WSBF

   Waterstone Financial, Inc.      WI      $ 19.95      $ 476.59      $ 4.08     $ 17.07        5.00x        116.87     22.90     117.04     4.89x      $ 0.80        4.01     36.09   $ 2,198        19.59     19.57     0.69     4.40     24.03      4.50      24.58

MHCs

 

BCOW

   1895 Bancorp of Wisconsin, Inc.      WI      $ 14.87      $ 69.67      $ 0.12     $ 12.38        NM        120.07     13.93     120.07     NM        NA        NA       NA     $ 517        11.60     11.60     NA       0.31     2.77      0.13      1.14

KFFB

   Kentucky First Federal Bancorp      KY      $ 6.93      $ 56.91      ($ 0.17   $ 6.31        NM        109.87     17.14     111.92     NM      $ 0.40        5.77     NA     $ 333        15.60     15.36     NA       -3.71     -22.65      -0.44      -2.67

TFSL

   TFS Financial Corporation      OH      $ 22.35      $ 6,187.03        NA     $ 6.07        NM        368.18     43.36     370.29     NM      $ 1.12        5.01     350.00   $ 14,465        11.78     11.72     1.02     0.60     5.27      NA        NA  

 

(1)

Core income, on a diluted per-share basis. Core income is net income after taxes and before extraordinary items, less net income attributable to noncontrolling interest, gain on the sale of securities, amortization of intangibles, goodwill and nonrecurring items. Assumed tax rate is 35%.

(2)

P/E = Price to earnings; P/B = Price to book; P/A = Price to assets; P/TB = Price to tangible book value; and P/Core = Price to core earnings. P/E and P/Core =NM if the ratio is negative or above 35x.

(3)

Indicated 12 month dividend, based on last quarterly dividend declared.

(4)

Indicated 12 month dividend as a percent of trailing 12 month earnings.

(5)

Equity and tangible equity equal common equity and tangible common equity, respectively. ROAA (return on average assets) and ROAE (return on average equity) are indicated ratios based on trailing 12 month earnings and average equity and assets balances.

(6)

Excludes from averages and medians those companies the subject of actual or rumored acquisition activities or unusual operating characteristics.

Source: SNL Financial, LC. and RP Financial, LC. calculations. The information provided in this report has been obtained from sources we believe are reliable, but we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of such information.

Copyright (c) 2021 by RP® Financial, LC.


EXHIBIT III-4

Peer Group Market Area Comparative Analysis


Exhibit III-4

Peer Group Market Area Comparative Analysis

 

                          Proj.                  Per Capita Income     Deposit  
            Population      Pop.      2016-2021     2021-2026     2021      % State     Market  

Institution

   County      2016      2021      2026      % Change     % Change     Amount      Average     Share(1)  

Prudential Bancorp, Inc.

     Philadelphia, PA        1,569,473        1,588,749        1,606,225        0.2     0.2     30,040        79.7     1.02

Hingham Institution for Savings

     Plymouth, MA        511,963        525,369        539,355        0.5     0.5     49,722        98.4     10.91

HMN Financial, Inc.

     Olmsted, MN        152,655        160,589        167,296        1.0     0.8     43,936        104.6     6.04

ESSA Bancorp, Inc.

     Monroe, PA        164,857        171,166        172,658        0.8     0.2     32,216        85.5     28.72

Waterstone Financial, Inc.

     Milwaukee, WI        958,242        942,546        941,193        -0.3     0.0     30,901        85.1     1.42

IF Bancorp, Inc.

     Iroquois, IL        28,599        26,613        25,608        -1.4     -0.8     28,928        74.2     22.22

Randolph Bancorp, Inc.

     Norfolk, MA        699,079        711,405        729,065        0.4     0.5     60,544        119.8     1.65

Western New England Bancorp, Inc.

     Hampden, MA        469,440        465,407        468,105        -0.2     0.1     32,565        64.5     13.11

PCSB Financial Corporation

     Westchester, NY        979,959        967,400        970,003        -0.3     0.1     60,382        137.9     0.41

Provident Bancorp, Inc.

     Essex, MA        777,791        793,814        813,863        0.4     0.5     48,443        95.9     2.29
     Averages:        631,206        635,306        643,337        0.1     0.2     41,768        94.5     8.78
     Medians:        605,521        618,387        634,210        0.3     0.2     38,251        90.7     4.17

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

     Bronx, NY        1,456,268        1,414,709        1,415,085        -0.6     0.0     23,001        52.5     1.72

 

(1)

Total institution deposits in headquarters county as percent of total county deposits as of June 30, 2020.

Sources: S&P Global Market Intelligence and FDIC.


EXHIBIT IV-1

Stock Prices:

As of June 1, 2021


RP ® Financial, LC.

Exhibit IV-1A

Weekly Thrift Market Line - Part One

Prices As of June 1, 2021

 

               Market Capitalization      Price Change Data      Current Per Share Financials         
               Price/      Shares      Market      52 Week (1)             % Change From      LTM      LTM Core      BV/      TBV/      Assets/      Assets  
               Share(1)      Outstanding      Capitalization      High      Low      Last Wk      Last Wk      52 Wks (2)      MRY (2)      EPS (3)      EPS (3)      Share      Share (4)      Share         
          ($)      (000)      ($Mil)      ($)      ($)      ($)      (%)      (%)      (%)      ($)      ($)      ($)      ($)      ($)         

Companies

                                               

AFBI

   Affinity Bancshares, Inc.    SE      12.55        6,873        86.3        12.91        6.53        12.52        0.24        75.52        26.78        0.89        NA        16.76        14.02        116.01        797,268  

AX

   Axos Financial, Inc.    WE      48.26        59,238        2,858.8        54.36        18.97        45.13        6.94        122.40        28.59        3.43        3.69        22.72        20.72        250.31        14,827,874  

BYFC

   Broadway Financial Corporation    WE      2.56        38,751        99.2        7.23        1.09        2.28        12.28        82.86        38.38        -0.15        NA        1.62        1.62        12.38        479,594  

CFFN

   Capitol Federal Financial, Inc.    MW      13.06        135,494        1,769.6        14.38        8.75        12.60        3.65        13.47        4.48        0.56        0.56        9.21        9.11        71.58        9,698,019  

CARV

   Carver Bancorp, Inc.    MA      9.14        3,221        29.4        22.97        1.63        7.90        15.70        431.40        40.83        -1.36        -1.49        9.43        9.43        213.12        686,399  

CBMB

   CBM Bancorp, Inc.    MA      14.60        3,526        51.5        15.15        11.56        14.60        0.00        21.67        9.94        0.26        0.24        14.15        14.15        68.02        239,819  

CNNB

   Cincinnati Bancorp, Inc.    MW      13.90        2,967        41.2        14.32        8.60        13.90        0.00        51.09        16.32        1.67        1.68        14.40        14.34        81.13        240,708  

ESBK

   Elmira Savings Bank    MA      14.18        3,542        50.2        16.00        10.30        13.62        4.11        23.30        23.30        1.24        1.24        17.33        13.85        0.00        659,300  

ESSA

   ESSA Bancorp, Inc.    MA      16.01        10,085        160.0        18.23        11.05        15.52        3.16        18.59        6.73        1.56        1.53        18.51        17.16        0.00        1,969,789  

FFBW

   FFBW, Inc.    MW      11.22        6,624        69.7        11.50        7.86        11.25        -0.27        23.43        11.98        0.29        NA        13.60        NA        0.00        337,751  

FNWB

   First Northwest Bancorp    WE      17.75        9,473        161.5        18.74        9.45        17.65        0.57        33.86        13.78        1.36        1.14        17.86        17.86        0.00        1,736,293  

FSBW

   FS Bancorp, Inc.    WE      71.29        4,153        295.5        73.62        32.78        68.15        4.61        76.90        30.09        10.54        10.61        56.77        55.14        0.00        2,175,586  

GBNY

   Generations Bancorp NY, Inc.    MA      9.95        2,552        25.4        11.75        6.67        9.90        0.51        24.38        -4.51        0.86        0.38        17.06        16.40        0.00        381,940  

HONE

   HarborOne Bancorp, Inc.    NE      14.90        52,630        784.2        15.14        7.48        14.33        3.98        87.89        37.20        1.11        1.13        12.41        11.10        0.00        4,605,958  

HIFS

   Hingham Institution for Savings    NE      295.74        2,142        633.6        325.90        154.57        286.00        3.41        83.29        36.92        29.69        22.69        144.12        144.12        0.00        2,844,114  

HMNF

   HMN Financial, Inc.    MW      20.74        4,568        94.7        20.85        13.06        20.70        0.19        47.83        20.58        2.66        2.66        22.11        21.94        0.00        971,305  

HFBL

   Home Federal Bancorp, Inc. of Louisiana    SW      17.25        3,126        53.7        20.75        11.13        17.95        -3.89        43.75        19.46        1.50        1.50        15.47        15.47        0.00        563,260  

HVBC

   HV Bancorp, Inc.    MA      20.66        2,176        44.9        20.75        11.00        20.00        3.30        66.48        20.33        3.42        3.37        18.32        18.32        0.00        595,730  

IROQ

   IF Bancorp, Inc.    MW      22.59        3,043        68.7        23.00        15.03        21.53        4.90        41.29        2.52        1.87        1.75        25.76        25.76        0.00        745,446  

KRNY

   Kearny Financial Corp.    MA      13.11        77,983        1,022.4        13.77        6.91        12.64        3.72        54.60        24.15        0.70        0.73        12.98        10.36        0.00        7,357,994  

MSVB

   Mid-Southern Bancorp, Inc.    MW      15.45        2,996        46.3        16.59        11.75        15.25        1.29        23.47        7.19        0.39        0.37        15.09        15.09        0.00        244,855  

NYCB

   New York Community Bancorp, Inc.    MA      12.18        465,064        5,664.5        13.23        7.72        11.66        4.46        20.24        15.45        1.12        0.96        13.53        8.32        0.00        57,656,892  

NFBK

   Northfield Bancorp, Inc. (Staten Island, NY)    MA      16.76        51,303        859.8        17.25        8.72        16.39        2.26        54.04        35.93        1.04        1.14        14.60        13.79        0.00        5,576,924  

NWBI

   Northwest Bancshares, Inc.    MA      14.35        127,253        1,826.1        15.48        8.84        13.68        4.90        45.39        12.64        0.85        1.01        12.11        8.96        0.00        14,270,356  

PCSB

   PCSB Financial Corporation    MA      18.32        14,924        273.4        20.75        11.01        17.61        4.03        38.16        14.93        0.80        0.80        16.99        16.60        0.00        1,854,674  

PVBC

   Provident Bancorp, Inc.    NE      16.39        16,804        239.4        17.41        7.21        15.90        3.08        95.82        36.58        0.84        0.92        12.61        12.61        0.00        1,551,892  

PROV

   Provident Financial Holdings, Inc.    WE      17.70        7,517        133.0        18.23        11.40        16.60        6.63        38.82        12.67        0.78        0.78        16.73        16.73        0.00        1,189,296  

PFS

   Provident Financial Services, Inc.    MA      25.47        76,650        1,952.3        25.70        11.76        24.34        4.64        95.32        41.82        1.75        1.80        21.17        15.20        0.00        13,130,445  

PBIP

   Prudential Bancorp, Inc.    MA      13.90        7,859        109.2        15.86        9.53        13.92        -0.14        24.89        0.36        0.95        0.64        16.40        15.59        0.00        1,204,032  

RNDB

   Randolph Bancorp, Inc.    NE      22.32        4,935        110.1        24.70        8.96        21.59        3.38        139.48        1.18        4.82        4.90        18.80        18.80        0.00        738,188  

RVSB

   Riverview Bancorp, Inc.    WE      7.07        22,351        158.0        7.79        3.77        6.83        3.51        45.17        34.41        0.47        0.47        6.78        5.54        0.00        1,549,158  

STXB

   Spirit of Texas Bancshares, Inc.    SW      22.98        17,146        394.0        24.50        10.40        22.59        1.73        89.14        36.79        2.15        2.30        21.34        16.24        0.00        3,170,212  

SBT

   Sterling Bancorp, Inc. (Southfield, MI)    MW      4.96        50,190        248.9        5.95        2.68        4.60        7.83        79.71        9.25        -0.12        -0.12        6.44        6.44        0.00        3,694,027  

TBNK

   Territorial Bancorp Inc.    WE      26.42        9,144        241.6        30.04        19.23        25.21        4.80        6.66        9.95        2.08        1.94        26.43        26.43        0.00        2,139,561  

TSBK

   Timberland Bancorp, Inc.    WE      29.68        8,363        248.2        30.75        16.01        28.77        3.16        66.65        22.34        3.23        3.26        23.75        21.76        0.00        1,699,244  

TBK

   Triumph Bancorp, Inc.    SW      84.47        24,675        2,084.3        97.49        21.26        80.78        4.57        246.61        73.99        4.02        3.39        28.90        21.34        0.00        6,099,628  

TRST

   TrustCo Bank Corp NY    MA      37.80        19,288        729.1        41.47        25.25        37.30        1.34        21.15        13.34        2.76        2.76        29.61        29.58        0.00        6,046,457  

WSBF

   Waterstone Financial, Inc.    MW      19.95        23,860        476.6        21.41        13.08        19.41        2.78        39.90        6.00        3.99        4.08        17.07        17.04        0.00        2,198,011  

WNEB

   Western New England Bancorp, Inc.    NE      8.46        24,577        202.2        9.24        4.92        8.13        4.06        53.82        22.79        0.60        0.61        9.07        8.44        0.00        2,463,529  

WMPN

   William Penn Bancorp    MA      11.28        15,171        171.1        11.97        7.98        11.30        -0.18        41.37        -3.27        0.11        0.28        14.17        13.79        0.00        817,427  

WSFS

   WSFS Financial Corporation    MA      54.02        47,532        2,567.7        55.18        24.59        50.80        6.34        93.76        20.37        3.43        3.34        37.27        25.66        0.00        14,730,452  

WVFC

   WVS Financial Corp.    MA      16.30        1,742        28.3        16.60        13.00        16.00        1.88        25.39        13.78        0.79        0.77        20.24        20.24        0.00        314,233  

MHCs

                                                  

BCOW

   1895 Bancorp of Wisconsin, Inc.    MW      14.87        4,685        69.7        16.65        7.82        14.09        5.54        69.75        49.30        0.32        0.12        12.38        12.38        0.00     

BSBK

   Bogota Financial Corp.    MA      10.05        13,940        140.1        10.75        7.01        9.99        0.60        17.13        12.79        0.50        0.37        9.92        9.89        0.00     

CLBK

   Columbia Financial, Inc.    MA      17.69        109,051        1,929.1        18.81        10.27        17.06        3.69        25.91        13.69        0.67        0.71        9.17        8.39        0.00     

FSEA

   First Seacoast Bancorp    NE      9.42        5,979        56.3        10.00        6.08        9.64        -2.28        47.06        6.09        0.30        0.23        9.78        9.78        0.00     

GCBC

   Greene County Bancorp, Inc.    MA      30.00        8,513        255.4        30.00        20.12        27.00        11.11        34.95        17.69        2.47        2.47        16.34        16.34        0.00     

KFFB

   Kentucky First Federal Bancorp    MW      6.93        8,212        56.9        8.16        5.65        6.89        0.58        -1.84        9.66        -1.47        -0.17        6.31        6.19        0.00     

LSBK

   Lake Shore Bancorp, Inc.    MA      14.77        5,672        83.8        16.00        10.60        14.35        2.93        28.22        13.62        0.94        0.93        14.82        14.82        0.00     

MGYR

   Magyar Bancorp, Inc.    MA      13.96        5,811        81.1        15.05        7.50        13.35        4.57        56.85        44.81        0.72        0.62        10.24        10.24        0.00     

OFED

   Oconee Federal Financial Corp.    SE      25.58        5,574        142.6        28.00        20.70        25.16        1.67        16.27        1.11        0.71        0.69        15.66        15.17        0.00     

PDLB

   PDL Community Bancorp    MA      13.78        16,809        231.6        14.88        8.01        11.54        19.41        53.79        31.11        0.46        0.30        9.47        9.47        0.00     

PBFS

   Pioneer Bancorp, Inc.    MA      11.75        25,074        294.6        13.34        8.02        11.65        0.86        25.94        11.16        0.25        0.18        8.80        8.45        0.00     

RBKB

   Rhinebeck Bancorp, Inc.    MA      10.57        10,746        113.6        13.10        6.26        10.39        1.73        57.53        23.63        0.76        0.75        10.68        10.43        0.00     

TFSL

   TFS Financial Corporation    MW      22.35        276,825        6,187.0        22.53        13.32        21.03        6.28        46.56        26.77        0.32        NA        6.07        6.04        0.00     

 

(1)

Average of High/Low or Bid/Ask price per share.

 

(2)

Or since offering price if converted of first listed in the past 52 weeks. Percent change figures are actual year-to-date and are not annualized.

 

(3)

EPS (earnings per share) is based on actual trailing 12 month data and is not shown on a pro forma basis.

 

(4)

Excludes intangibles (such as goodwill, value of core deposits, etc.).

 

(5)

ROA (return on assets) and ROE (return on equity) are indicated ratios based on trailing 12 month common earnings and average common equity and total assets balances.

 

(6)

Annualized based on last regular quarterly cash dividend announcement.

 

(7)

Indicated dividend as a percent of trailing 12 month earnings.

 

(8)

Excluded from averages due to actual or rumored acquisition activities or unusual operating characteristics.

 

(9)

For MHC institutions, market value reflects share price multiplied by public (non-MHC) shares.


RP ® Financial, LC.

Exhibit IV-1B

Weekly Thrift Market Line - Part Two

Prices As of June 1, 2021

 

               Key Financial Ratios     

Asset Quality Ratios

   Pricing Ratios     

Dividend Data (6)

               Equity/      Tang Equity/      Reported Earnings      Core Earnings      NPAs/    Rsvs/    Price/      Price/      Price/      Price/      Price/      Div/    Dividend    Payout
               Assets(1)      Assets(1)      ROA(5)      ROE(5)      ROA(5)      ROE(5)     

Assets

  

NPLs

   Earnings      Book      Assets      Tang Book      Core Earnings     

Share

  

Yield

  

Ratio (7)

               (%)      (%)      (%)      (%)      (%)      (%)      (%)    (%)    (x)      (%)      (%)      (%)      (x)      ($)    (%)    (%)

Companies

                                                  

AFBI

   Affinity Bancshares, Inc.    SE      14.46        12.38        0.81        7.61        NA        NA      NA    NA      14.10        74.86        10.82        89.54        NA      NA    NA    NM

AX

   Axos Financial, Inc.    WE      9.08        8.34        1.53        16.32        1.64        17.57      0.96    101.84      14.07        212.45        19.28        232.89        13.06      NA    NA    NM

BYFC

   Broadway Financial Corporation    WE      9.40        9.40        -0.83        -8.33        NA        NA      0.97    68.99      NM        158.45        14.89        158.45        NA      0.00    0.00    NM

CFFN

   Capitol Federal Financial, Inc.    MW      13.18        13.06        0.81        5.97        0.80        5.92      NA    NA      23.32        141.79        18.69        143.36        23.53      0.34    2.60    155.36

CARV

   Carver Bancorp, Inc.    MA      6.76        6.76        -0.74        -9.86        -0.85        -11.28      1.95    38.65      NM        96.93        4.11        96.93        NM      0.00    0.00    NM

CBMB

   CBM Bancorp, Inc.    MA      20.80        20.80        0.38        1.67        0.35        1.53      0.48    458.09      56.15        103.21        21.47        103.21        61.74      NA    NA    192.31

CNNB

   Cincinnati Bancorp, Inc.    MW      17.78        17.72        2.01        13.50        2.02        13.55      0.54    129.69      8.32        96.54        17.17        96.92        8.29      NA    NA    NM

ESBK

   Elmira Savings Bank    MA      9.32        7.60        0.66        7.20        0.66        7.22      NA    90.93      11.44        81.84        7.62        102.38        11.45      0.60    4.23    48.39

ESSA

   ESSA Bancorp, Inc.    MA      10.08        9.42        0.83        8.21        0.81        8.08      1.27    69.46      10.26        86.51        8.72        93.30        10.43      0.48    3.00    29.49

FFBW

   FFBW, Inc.    MW      29.33        NA        0.66        2.27        NA        NA      0.46    179.51      38.69        82.52        24.21        83.96        NA      NA    NA    NM

FNWB

   First Northwest Bancorp    WE      10.49        10.49        0.82        6.99        0.69        5.87      0.23    356.54      13.05        99.38        10.42        99.38        15.52      0.24    1.35    16.91

FSBW

   FS Bancorp, Inc.    WE      11.05        10.76        2.26        21.28        2.27        21.43      0.41    304.95      6.76        125.58        13.87        129.28        6.72      1.08    1.51    9.01

GBNY

   Generations Bancorp NY, Inc.    MA      10.98        10.60        0.57        6.71        0.25        2.92      NA    NA      11.57        58.31        6.40        60.66        26.07      NA    NA    NM

HONE

   HarborOne Bancorp, Inc.    NE      15.16        13.77        1.36        8.61        1.39        8.78      1.02    119.67      13.42        120.02        18.19        134.22        13.18      0.20    1.34    12.61

HIFS

   Hingham Institution for Savings    NE      10.84        10.84        2.36        23.21        1.81        17.74      0.06    NM      9.96        205.20        22.25        205.20        13.03      1.96    0.66    8.56

HMNF

   HMN Financial, Inc.    MW      10.82        10.74        1.38        12.33        1.38        12.34      0.37    342.64      7.80        93.78        10.14        94.53        7.79      0.00    0.00    NM

HFBL

   Home Federal Bancorp, Inc. of Louisiana    SW      9.26        9.26        0.97        10.07        0.97        10.07      0.48    304.23      11.54        111.49        10.32        111.49        11.54      0.33    1.91    22.07

HVBC

   HV Bancorp, Inc.    MA      6.69        6.69        1.26        19.65        1.24        19.34      0.53    62.97      6.04        112.78        7.54        112.78        6.14      NA    NA    NM

IROQ

   IF Bancorp, Inc.    MW      11.20        11.20        0.79        6.87        0.74        6.45      0.20    499.29      12.08        87.66        9.82        87.66        12.88      0.30    1.33    16.04

KRNY

   Kearny Financial Corp.    MA      14.46        11.88        0.81        5.33        0.85        5.54      1.08    80.42      18.73        100.98        14.60        126.56        18.02      0.40    3.05    50.00

MSVB

   Mid-Southern Bancorp, Inc.    MW      19.55        19.55        0.53        2.40        0.49        2.23      0.81    84.17      39.61        102.35        20.01        102.35        42.20      0.12    0.78    25.64

NYCB

   New York Community Bancorp, Inc.    MA      11.79        7.91        1.01        8.24        0.88        7.15      0.10    411.38      10.88        90.01        9.91        146.48        12.68      0.68    5.58    60.71

NFBK

   Northfield Bancorp, Inc. (Staten Island, NY)    MA      13.53        12.88        0.94        6.89        1.03        7.54      0.28    273.88      16.12        114.76        15.53        121.51        14.76      0.52    3.10    44.23

NWBI

   Northwest Bancshares, Inc.    MA      10.80        8.22        0.78        6.96        0.92        8.25      1.72    50.80      16.88        118.47        12.79        160.10        14.22      0.80    5.57    90.59

PCSB

   PCSB Financial Corporation    MA      14.63        14.34        0.67        4.38        0.67        4.37      NA    180.97      22.90        107.82        15.77        110.37        22.95      0.24    1.31    22.50

PVBC

   Provident Bancorp, Inc.    NE      15.09        15.09        1.05        6.31        1.14        6.88      NA    NA      19.51        130.02        19.62        130.02        17.90      0.16    0.98    15.48

PROV

   Provident Financial Holdings, Inc.    WE      10.57        10.57        0.49        4.67        0.49        4.67      0.84    83.42      22.69        105.80        11.19        105.80        22.69      0.56    3.16    71.79

PFS

   Provident Financial Services, Inc.    MA      12.55        9.34        1.08        8.43        1.11        8.65      0.82    81.71      14.55        120.29        15.09        167.56        14.16      0.92    3.61    52.57

PBIP

   Prudential Bancorp, Inc.    MA      10.82        10.34        0.64        5.96        0.43        3.99      1.12    62.09      14.63        84.77        9.17        89.15        21.71      0.28    2.01    29.47

RNDB

   Randolph Bancorp, Inc.    NE      13.66        13.66        3.49        26.37        3.55        26.80      1.38    65.49      4.63        118.71        16.22        118.75        4.56      NA    NA    NM

RVSB

   Riverview Bancorp, Inc.    WE      9.79        8.14        0.74        6.91        0.75        6.98      NA    NA      15.04        104.24        10.20        127.54        14.88      0.20    2.83    42.55

STXB

   Spirit of Texas Bancshares, Inc.    SW      11.54        9.03        1.25        10.57        1.34        11.32      0.31    163.60      10.69        107.67        12.42        141.52        9.98      0.36    1.57    11.63

SBT

   Sterling Bancorp, Inc. (Southfield, MI)    MW      8.71        8.71        -0.17        -1.99        -0.17        -1.96      2.98    65.49      NM        77.05        6.71        77.05        NM      0.00    0.00    NM

TBNK

   Territorial Bancorp Inc.    WE      11.76        11.76        0.91        7.72        0.85        7.19      0.22    69.91      12.70        99.98        11.76        99.98        13.65      0.92    3.48    49.04

TSBK

   Timberland Bancorp, Inc.    WE      11.68        10.81        1.74        14.49        1.76        14.64      0.32    259.90      9.19        124.99        14.60        136.38        9.09      0.84    2.83    28.48

TBK

   Triumph Bancorp, Inc.    SW      12.53        9.74        1.80        14.81        1.52        12.57      0.54    159.15      21.01        292.33        34.71        395.83        24.92      NA    NA    NM

TRST

   TrustCo Bank Corp NY    MA      9.44        9.44        0.93        9.49        0.93        9.49      0.55    152.73      13.70        127.68        12.06        127.80        13.70      1.36    3.60    49.37

WSBF

   Waterstone Financial, Inc.    MW      19.59        19.57        4.40        24.03        4.50        24.58      0.69    119.02      5.00        116.87        22.90        117.04        4.89      0.80    4.01    36.09

WNEB

   Western New England Bancorp, Inc.    NE      9.05        8.48        0.62        6.49        0.64        6.64      NA    NA      14.10        93.32        8.44        100.22        13.81      0.20    2.36    33.33

WMPN

   William Penn Bancorp    MA      26.31        25.78        0.25        1.89        0.53        3.93      0.86    52.01      98.98        79.58        20.93        81.81        39.72      0.13    1.14    113.10

WSFS

   WSFS Financial Corporation    MA      12.01        8.58        1.23        9.23        1.19        8.95      0.34    431.41      15.75        144.92        17.42        210.55        16.19      0.52    0.96    14.29

WVFC

   WVS Financial Corp.    MA      12.25        12.25        0.41        3.73        0.40        3.62      0.00    NM      20.63        80.55        9.87        80.55        21.20      0.40    2.45    50.63

MHCs

                                                     

BCOW

   1895 Bancorp of Wisconsin, Inc.    MW      11.60        11.60        0.31        2.77        0.13        1.14      NA    161.33      46.47        120.07        13.93        120.07        122.92      NA    NA    NM

BSBK

   Bogota Financial Corp.    MA      16.95        16.92        0.85        4.99        0.63        3.70      NA    NA      20.10        101.33        17.18        101.61        26.96      NA    NA    NM

CLBK

   Columbia Financial, Inc.    MA      11.06        10.21        0.81        7.03        0.86        7.46      NA    NA      26.40        192.85        21.33        210.81        24.88      NA    NA    NM

FSEA

   First Seacoast Bancorp    NE      12.70        12.70        0.37        2.95        0.29        2.28      0.01    NM      31.40        96.31        12.23        96.31        41.06      NA    NA    NM

GCBC

   Greene County Bancorp, Inc.    MA      6.49        6.49        1.16        15.81        1.16        15.81      0.25    371.37      12.15        183.63        11.92        183.63        12.15      0.48    1.60    19.43

KFFB

   Kentucky First Federal Bancorp    MW      15.60        15.36        -3.71        -22.65        -0.44        -2.67      NA    NA      NM        109.87        17.14        111.92        NM      0.40    5.77    NM

LSBK

   Lake Shore Bancorp, Inc.    MA      12.18        12.18        0.81        6.45        0.80        6.37      0.45    193.93      15.71        99.65        12.14        99.65        15.93      0.52    3.52    54.26

MGYR

   Magyar Bancorp, Inc.    MA      7.84        7.84        0.56        7.32        0.48        6.26      1.85    59.34      19.39        136.37        10.69        136.37        22.68      NA    NA    NM

OFED

   Oconee Federal Financial Corp.    SE      16.40        15.97        0.79        4.60        0.77        4.48      0.56    44.84      36.03        163.38        26.80        168.66        36.98      0.40    1.56    56.34

PDLB

   PDL Community Bancorp    MA      11.24        11.24        0.59        4.71        0.39        3.08      1.32    82.14      29.96        145.47        16.36        145.47        45.62      NA    NA    NM

PBFS

   Pioneer Bancorp, Inc.    MA      12.79        12.33        0.39        2.70        0.27        1.92      1.07    121.33      47.00        133.48        17.07        139.09        66.62      NA    NA    NM

RBKB

   Rhinebeck Bancorp, Inc.    MA      9.93        9.72        0.72        7.05        0.72        6.97      0.53    179.12      13.91        99.01        9.83        101.35        14.06      NA    NA    NM

TFSL

   TFS Financial Corporation    MW      11.78        11.72        0.60        5.27        NA        NA      1.02    45.84      69.84        368.18        43.36        370.29        NA      1.12    5.01    350.00

 

(1)

Average of High/Low or Bid/Ask price per share.

(2)

Or since offering price if converted of first listed in the past 52 weeks. Percent change figures are actual year-to-date and are not annualized.

(3)

EPS (earnings per share) is based on actual trailing 12 month data and is not shown on a pro forma basis.

(4)

Exludes intangibles (such as goodwill, value of core deposits, etc.).

(5)

ROA (return on assets) and ROE (return on equity) are indicated ratios based on trailing 12 month common earnings and average common equity and total assets balances.

(6)

Annualized based on last regular quarterly cash dividend announcement.

(7)

Indicated dividend as a percent of trailing 12 month earnings.

(8)

Excluded from averages due to actual or rumored acquisition activities or unusual operating characteristics.

(9)

For MHC institutions, market value reflects share price multiplied by public (non-MHC) shares.

Source: S&P Global Market Intelligence and RP® Financial, LC. calculations. The information provided in this table has been obtained from sources we believe are reliable, but we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of such information.

Copyright (c) 2021 by RP® Financial, LC.


EXHIBIT IV-2

Historical Stock Price Indices


Exhibit IV-2

Historical Stock Price Indices(1)

 

Year/Qtr. Ended

     DJIA        S&P
500
       NASDAQ
Composite
       SNL
Thrift
Index
       SNL
Bank
Index
 
2008:   

Quarter 1

       12262.9          1322.7          2279.1          1001.5          442.5  
  

Quarter 2

       11350.0          1280.0          2293.0          822.6          332.2  
  

Quarter 3

       10850.7          1166.4          2082.3          760.1          414.8  
  

Quarter 4

       8776.4          903.3          1577.0          653.9          268.3  
2009:   

Quarter 1

       7608.9          797.9          1528.6          542.8          170.1  
  

Quarter 2

       8447.0          919.3          1835.0          538.8          227.6  
  

Quarter 3

       9712.3          1057.1          2122.4          561.4          282.9  
  

Quarter 4

       10428.1          1115.1          2269.2          587.0          260.8  
2010:   

Quarter 1

       10856.6          1169.4          2398.0          626.3          301.1  
  

Quarter 2

       9744.0          1030.7          2109.2          564.5          257.2  
  

Quarter 3

       9744.0          1030.7          2109.2          564.5          257.2  
  

Quarter 4

       11577.5          1257.6          2652.9          592.2          290.1  
2011:   

Quarter 1

       12319.7          1325.8          2781.1          578.1          293.1  
  

Quarter 2

       12414.3          1320.6          2773.5          540.8          266.8  
  

Quarter 3

       10913.4          1131.4          2415.4          443.2          198.9  
  

Quarter 4

       12217.6          1257.6          2605.2          481.4          221.3  
2012:   

Quarter 1

       13212.0          1408.5          3091.6          529.3          284.9  
  

Quarter 2

       12880.1          1362.2          2935.1          511.6          257.3  
  

Quarter 3

       13437.1          1440.7          3116.2          557.6          276.8  
  

Quarter 4

       13104.1          1426.2          3019.5          565.8          292.7  
2013:   

Quarter 1

       14578.5          1569.2          3267.5          602.3          318.9  
  

Quarter 2

       14909.6          1606.3          3404.3          625.3          346.7  
  

Quarter 3

       15129.7          1681.6          3771.5          650.8          354.4  
  

Quarter 4

       16576.7          1848.4          4176.6          706.5          394.4  
2014:   

Quarter 1

       16457.7          1872.3          4199.0          718.9          410.8  
  

Quarter 2

       16826.6          1960.2          4408.2          723.9          405.2  
  

Quarter 3

       17042.9          1972.3          4493.4          697.7          411.0  
  

Quarter 4

       17823.1          2058.9          4736.1          738.7          432.8  
2015:   

Quarter 1

       17776.1          2067.9          4900.9          749.3          418.8  
  

Quarter 2

       17619.5          2063.1          4986.9          795.7          448.4  
  

Quarter 3

       16284.7          1920.0          4620.2          811.7          409.4  
  

Quarter 4

       17425.0          2043.9          5007.4          809.1          431.5  
2016:   

Quarter 1

       17685.1          2059.7          4869.9          788.1          381.4  
  

Quarter 2

       17930.0          2098.9          4842.7          780.9          385.6  
  

Quarter 3

       18308.2          2168.3          5312.0          827.2          413.7  
  

Quarter 4

       19762.6          2238.8          5383.1          966.7          532.7  
2017:   

Quarter 1

       20663.2          2362.7          5911.7          918.9          535.8  
  

Quarter 2

       21349.6          2423.4          6140.4          897.1          552.4  
  

Quarter 3

       22405.1          2519.4          6496.0          939.3          573.2  
  

Quarter 4

       24719.2          2673 6          6903.4          937.6          617.7  
2018:   

Quarter 1

       24103.1          2640.9          7063.5          941.5          606.8  
  

Quarter 2

       24271.4          2718.4          7510.3          961.2          597.8  
  

Quarter 3

       26458.3          2914.0          8046.4          905.6          597.8  
  

Quarter 4

       23327.5          2506.9          6635.3          772.0          502.9  
2019:   

Quarter 1

       25928.7          2834.4          7729.3          837.8          543.8  
  

Quarter 2

       26600.0          2941.8          8006.2          845.3          573.0  
  

Quarter 3

       26916.8          2976.7          7999.3          890.5          584.5  
  

Quarter 4

       28538.4          3230.8          8972.6          920.7          663.9  
2020:   

Quarter 1

       21917.2          2584.6          7700.1          632.8          392.9  
  

Quarter 2

       25812.9          3100.3          10058.8          658.5          430.8  
  

Quarter 3

       27781.7          3363.0          11167.5          605.8          417.8  
  

Quarter 4

       30606.5          3756.1          12888.3          816.7          558.8  
2021:   

Quarter 1

       32981.6          3972.9          13246.9          961.6          690.9  

As of June 1, 2021

       34575.3          4202.0          13736.5          1005.5          757.9  

 

(1)

End of period data.

Sources: S&P Global Market Intelligence and The Wall Street Journal.


EXHIBIT IV-3

Stock Price Indices as of June 1, 2021


LOGO

Index Summary (Current Data)

Industry Banking

Geography All

 

Index Name

   Current Value      As Of      Day’s Change      Day’s Change
(%)
 

SNL Banking Indexes

           

SNL U.S. Bank and Thrift

     727.19        6/1/2021        7.45        1.04  

SNL U.S. Bank

     757.94        6/1/2021        7.78        1.04  

SNL U.S. Thrift

     1,005.51        6/1/2021        9.32        0.94  

SNL TARP Participants

     183.13        6/1/2021        3.02        1.67  

KBW Nasdaq Bank Index

     134.82        6/1/2021        1.20        0.89  

KBW Nasdaq Regional Bank Index

     129.29        6/1/2021        1.22        0.95  

S&P 500 Bank

     431.28        6/1/2021        4.13        0.97  

NASDAQ Bank

     4,841.41        6/1/2021        42.10        0.88  

S&P 500 Commercial Banks

     616.15        6/1/2021        5.90        0.97  

S&P 500 Diversified Banks

     731.09        6/1/2021        8.16        1.13  

S&P 500 Regional Banks

     154.87        6/1/2021        0.69        0.44  

SNL Asset Size Indexes

           

SNL U.S. Bank < $250M

     46.37        5/21/2021        1.73        3.88  

SNL U.S. Bank $250M-$500M

     567.12        6/1/2021        7.31        1.31  

SNL U.S. Thrift < $250M

     103.56        6/1/2021        0.00        0.00  

SNL U.S. Thrift $250M-$500M

     6,193.66        6/1/2021        1.09        0.02  

SNL U.S. Bank < $500M

     1,291.99        6/1/2021        16.66        1.31  

SNL U.S. Thrift < $500M

     2,148.59        6/1/2021        (17.91      (0.83

SNL U.S. Bank $500M-$1B

     1,366.41        6/1/2021        12.68        0.94  

SNL U.S. Thrift $500M-$1B

     4,089.07        6/1/2021        27.75        0.68  

SNL U.S. Bank $1B-$5B

     1,354.22        6/1/2021        11.03        0.82  

SNL U.S. Thrift $1B-$5B

     2,927.73        6/1/2021        20.06        0.69  

SNL U.S. Bank $5B-$10B

     1,748.31        6/1/2021        21.11        1.22  

SNL U.S. Thrift $5B-$10B

     101.90        6/1/2021        (0.03      (0.03

SNL U.S. Bank > $10B

     614.53        6/1/2021        6.30        1.04  

SNL U.S. Thrift > $10B

     180.29        6/1/2021        2.65        1.49  

SNL Market Cap Indexes

           

SNL Micro Cap U.S. Bank

     636.03        6/1/2021        2.12        0.33  

SNL Micro Cap U.S. Thrift

     1,250.71        6/1/2021        5.25        0.42  

SNL Micro Cap U.S. Bank & Thrift

     746.05        6/1/2021        2.58        0.35  

SNL Small Cap U.S. Bank

     803.84        6/1/2021        6.41        0.80  

SNL Small Cap U.S. Thrift

     759.34        6/1/2021        (2.51      (0.33

SNL Small Cap U.S. Bank & Thrift

     822.61        6/1/2021        5.79        0.71  

SNL Mid Cap U.S. Bank

     485.31        6/1/2021        4.32        0.90  

SNL Mid Cap U.S. Thrift

     337.73        6/1/2021        3.91        1.17  

SNL Mid Cap U.S. Bank & Thrift

     475.72        6/1/2021        4.34        0.92  

SNL Large Cap U.S. Bank

     488.70        6/1/2021        5.09        1.05  

SNL Large Cap U.S. Thrift

     121.29        6/1/2021        1.54        1.28  

SNL Large Cap U.S. Bank & Thrift

     492.79        6/1/2021        5.14        1.05  

SNL Geographic Indexes

           

SNL Mid-Atlantic U.S. Bank

     769.72        6/1/2021        7.98        1.05  

SNL Mid-Atlantic U.S. Thrift

     3,391.98        6/1/2021        24.18        0.72  

SNL Midwest U.S. Bank

     787.18        6/1/2021        4.51        0.58  

SNL Midwest U.S. Thrift

     3,682.32        6/1/2021        46.23        1.27  

SNL New England U.S. Bank

     684.51        6/1/2021        6.64        0.98  

SNL New England U.S. Thrift

     4,124.48        6/1/2021        14.57        0.35  

SNL Southeast U.S. Bank

     546.56        6/1/2021        6.68        1.24  

SNL Southeast U.S. Thrift

     660.54        6/1/2021        5.34        0.81  

SNL Southwest U.S. Bank

     1,380.21        6/1/2021        14.64        1.07  

SNL Southwest U.S. Thrift

     94.93        6/1/2021        0.60        0.63  

SNL Western U.S. Bank

     1,521.64        6/1/2021        16.08        1.07  

SNL Western U.S. Thrift

     212.21        6/1/2021        3.42        1.64  

SNL Stock Exchange Indexes

           

SNL U.S. Bank NYSE

     664.81        6/1/2021        7.11        1.08  

SNL U.S. Thrift NYSE

     140.00        6/1/2021        2.49        1.81  

SNL U.S. Bank NYSE American

     854.56        6/1/2021        8.01        0.95  

SNL U.S. Bank NASDAQ

     1,091.68        6/1/2021        9.30        0.86  

SNL U.S. Thrift NASDAQ

     2,982.01        6/1/2021        15.77        0.53  

SNL U.S. Bank Pink

     508.27        6/1/2021        0.58        0.11  

SNL U.S. Thrift Pink

     443.36        6/1/2021        1.34        0.30  

SNL Bank TSX

     1,427.69        6/1/2021        11.62        0.82  

SNL OTHER Indexes

           

SNL U.S. Thrift MHCs

     6,978.08        6/1/2021        28.75        0.41  

SNL Pink Asset Size Indexes

           

SNL U.S. Bank Pink < $100M

     289.68        6/1/2021        (0.83      (0.29

SNL U.S. Bank Pink $100M-$500M

     573.50        6/1/2021        0.44        0.08  

SNL U.S. Bank Pink > $500M

     440.06        6/1/2021        0.53        0.12  


Broad Market Indexes

           

DJIA

     34,575.31        6/1/2021        45.86        0.13  

S&P 500

     4,202.04        6/1/2021        (2.07      (0.05

S&P 400 Mid Cap

     2,744.72        6/1/2021        17.28        0.63  

S&P 600 Small Cap

     1,393.44        6/1/2021        21.51        1.57  

S&P 500 Financials

     634.27        6/1/2021        4.14        0.66  

SNL U.S. Financial Institutions

     1,345.14        6/1/2021        7.76        0.58  

MSCI US IMI Financials

     2,275.23        6/1/2021        15.06        0.67  

NASDAQ

     13,736.48        6/1/2021        (12.26      (0.09

NASDAQ Finl

     6,227.86        6/1/2021        9.28        0.15  

NYSE

     16,643.32        6/1/2021        87.66        0.53  

Russell 1000

     2,363.89        6/1/2021        (0.63      (0.03

Russell 2000

     2,294.74        6/1/2021        25.77        1.14  

Russell 3000

     2,512.80        6/1/2021        1.28        0.05  

S&P TSX Composite

     19,976.01        6/1/2021        245.02        1.24  

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EXHIBIT IV-4

New York Bank and Thrift Acquisitions 2017 - Present


Exhibit IV-4

New York Bank and Thrift Acquisitions 2017-Present

 

                            Target Financials at Announcement     Deal Terms and Pricing at Announcement  
                            Total                             NPAs/     Rsrvs/     Deal     Value/                             Prem/  
Announce   Complete                       Assets     E/A     TE/A     ROAA     ROAE     Assets     NPLs     Value     Share     P/B     P/TB     P/E     P/A     Cdeps  

Date

 

Date

  

Buyer Name

  

 

  

Target Name

       ($000)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     (%)     ($M)     ($)     (%)     (%)     (x)     (%)     (%)  
04/19/2021   Pending    Webster Financial Corp.    CT    Sterling Bancorp    NY     29,914,282       15.44       10.12       1.03       6.83       0.74       149.16       5136.0       26.562       114.08       188.72       17.03       17.17       NA  
03/16/2021   Pending    DLP Real Estate Capital, Inc.    FL    Sunnyside Bancorp, Inc.    NY     96,640       12.31       12.31       -0.40       -3.11       0.99       48.17       12.3       15.550       103.75       103.75       NA       12.77       0.75  
10/16/2020   Pending    First Citizens BancShares Inc.    NC    CIT Group Inc.    NY     60,865,000       9.47       9.05       -0.87       -8.15       NA       NA       2158.6       21.906       41.20       43.56       NA       3.55       -7.35  
08/27/2020   05/26/2021    Hanover Bancorp Inc.    NY    Savoy Bank    NY     596,948       7.11       7.08       1.14       11.93       0.89       190.48       63.0       6.543       148.49       149.20       13.03       10.55       16.45  
07/01/2020   02/01/2021    Dime Community Bancshares Inc.    NY    Bridge Bancorp, Inc.    NY     6,150,664       8.17       6.53       0.94       9.73       0.51       137.21       498.2       14.800       NA       NA       NA       NA       NA  
10/25/2019   10/30/2020    Flushing Financial Corp.    NY    Empire Bancorp, Inc.    NY     1,012,542       8.02       NA       0.35       4.68       NA       NA       111.4       14.242       134.62       141.00       30.96       11.00       3.60  
12/18/2019   07/17/2020    CNB Financial Corp.    PA    Bank of Akron    NY     388,877       9.88       9.88       1.30       13.00       1.21       124.19       65.8       219.255       171.21       171.21       13.92       16.91       9.58  
01/09/2020   07/07/2020    Norwood Financial Corp.    PA    UpState New York Bancorp, Inc.    NY     435,907       10.39       10.39       1.19       11.65       0.93       173.71       80.0       36.233       177.94       177.94       17.29       18.42       18.95  
12/23/2019   07/01/2020    Northfield Bancorp Inc.    NJ    VSB Bancorp, Inc.    NY     375,704       10.14       10.14       0.95       10.30       0.58       79.69       64.4       33.300       161.62       161.62       16.32       17.14       9.54  
10/21/2019   06/12/2020    Community Bank System Inc.    NY    Steuben Trust Corporation    NY     576,601       11.06       11.05       1.25       11.96       0.55       517.24       108.8       64.033       170.63       170.80       15.36       18.87       11.55  
12/19/2019   05/01/2020    Evans Bancorp Inc.    NY    FSB Bancorp, Inc.    NY     324,810       9.83       9.83       0.00       0.02       0.32       166.28       34.6       17.829       108.40       108.40       NM       10.65       1.72  
07/24/2019   04/03/2020    Investors Bancorp Inc    NJ    Gold Coast Bancorp, Inc.    NY     572,323       8.07       8.07       0.45       5.65       NA       NA       63.6       15.838       134.91       134.91       25.14       11.12       5.05  
08/09/2019   01/01/2020    OceanFirst Financial Corp.    NJ    Country Bank Holding Company, Inc.    NY     783,352       8.62       NA       NA       NA       NA       NA       102.2       46280.000       151.00       151.00       9.80       13.05       7.50  
09/20/2018   08/09/2019    Hanover Bancorp Inc.    NY    Chinatown Federal Savings Bank    NY     131,610       19.39       19.39       0.01       0.03       2.15       27.17       28.8       140.762       112.84       112.84       NM       21.88       3.65  
01/22/2019   07/12/2019    Community Bank System Inc.    NY    Kinderhook Bank Corp.    NY     631,996       8.97       8.08       0.86       10.04       NA       NA       93.2       62.000       161.47       186.68       17.13       14.74       NA  
07/12/2018   01/02/2019    ConnectOne Bancorp, Inc.    NJ    Greater Hudson Bank    NY     519,643       10.13       10.13       -0.59       -5.13       1.09       131.33       76.3       NA       144.96       144.96       NA       14.69       6.84  
04/23/2018   10/15/2018    RBB Bancorp    CA    First American International Corp.    NY     889,618       9.23       9.23       0.95       10.62       0.30       357.42       115.3       52.321       177.21       177.21       15.57       12.96       NA  
03/05/2018   09/29/2018    Seneca-Cayuga Bncp Inc. (MHC)    NY    Medina Savings and Loan Association    NY     53,925       6.90       6.90       0.06       0.95       0.31       284.85       NA       NA       NA       NA       NA       NA       NA  
03/15/2017   11/10/2017    Kinderhook Bank Corp.    NY    Patriot Federal Bank    NY     141,246       8.73       8.61       0.37       4.09       0.55       231.02       14.6       9.945       118.10       119.86       28.65       10.30       2.61  
03/07/2017   10/02/2017    Sterling Bancorp    NY    Astoria Financial Corporation    NY     14,558,652       11.77       10.64       0.48       4.23       1.70       37.04       2229.7       NA       140.74       159.36       31.17       15.32       9.86  
           Average:        5,951,017       10.18       9.86       0.50       5.23       0.85       177.00           137.40       144.61       19.34       13.95       6.69  
           Median:        574,462       9.65       9.85       0.48       5.65       0.74       149.16           142.85       150.10       17.03       13.87       6.84  

Source: S&P Global Market Intelligence.


EXHIBIT IV-5

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Director and Senior Management Summary Resumes


Exhibit IV-5

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Director and Senior Management Summary Resumes

Business Experience and Qualifications of Directors

Maria Alvarez. Ms. Alvarez, age 56, has served as a director since 2019. Ms. Alvarez is a member of the Board of Directors of the Foundation. Ms. Alvarez is and has been the Executive Director of the New York StateWide Senior Action Council, Inc. since 2010. Since 2008, Ms. Alvarez has also been the Executive Director of the Brooklyn-wide Interagency Council on Aging Educational Fund, Inc.

Julio Gurman. Mr. Gurman, age 84, has served as a director since 1994. Mr. Gurman is an investor in and manager of commercial and residential real estate properties in the New York metropolitan area. Mr. Gurman is a co-investor/manager of the same 12 properties as Mr. Feldman and Mr. Lugo.

Carlos P. Naudon. Mr. Naudon, age 70, has served as a director since 2014. Mr. Naudon served as President and Chief Operating Officer of Ponce De Leon Federal Bank beginning in 2015 and presently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of Ponce Bank. Mr. Naudon is President and Chief Executive Officer of New Ponce and PDL Community Bancorp and President and Chief Operating Officer of Ponce Bank MHC. Mr. Naudon is a member of the Board of Directors of the Foundation. Prior to becoming President of Ponce De Leon Federal Bank, Mr. Naudon served as a consultant and compliance counsel to Ponce De Leon Federal Bank. Mr. Naudon owns Banking Spectrum, Inc., now a banking publishing company, formerly a bank consulting company. Until 2015, Mr. Naudon was a partner in the law firm of Allister & Naudon. Both of the foregoing firms were established in 1984 to provide services to banking institutions. Mr. Naudon, a retired CPA, was Of Counsel to the law firm Cullen & Dykman from 2015 to 2019. Mr. Naudon has also previously served in many board positions at other companies, public and private. Before retiring from his consulting and law firms in 2015, Mr. Naudon was a frequent lecturer and speaker on banking issues, corporate governance, quality assurance and performance incentives. Mr. Naudon has current and previous service in various healthcare and community organizations and serves on the board of the Brooklyn Hospital Center of which he was the Chairman of the Board until 2018. Mr. Naudon is a member of the New York State Bar Association, the New York City Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and other professional associations.

William Feldman. Mr. Feldman, age 78, has served as a director since 1993. Mr. Feldman is a member of the Board of Directors of the Foundation. Mr. Feldman has been investing in and managing commercial and residential real estate properties in the New York metropolitan area for over 30 years. At the present time, Mr. Feldman is managing 12 properties, with ownership interests varying between 12.5% and 50.0%, held by The Feldman Living Trust. Until 2018, Mr. Feldman served as the President of the Southern Boulevard Business Improvement District, a not-for-profit entity whose mission is to increase the economic growth and stability of the Southern Boulevard shopping area. Mr. Feldman currently serves as a member of its Board of Directors. Prior to 2013, Mr. Feldman owned several men’s clothing stores.

Steven A. Tsavaris. Mr. Tsavaris, age 71, has served as a director since 1990. In 2013, Mr. Tsavaris became Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Ponce De Leon Federal Bank. Mr. Tsavaris currently serves as Executive Chairman, a salaried officer, of Ponce Bank. Mr. Tsavaris is Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Ponce Bank MHC and Executive Chairman, a salaried officer, of New Ponce and PDL Community Bancorp. Mr. Tsavaris joined Ponce De Leon Federal Bank as an Executive Vice President in 1995, became President in 1999, and was made Chief Executive Officer in 2011. Mr. Tsavaris is the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Foundation and Executive Chairman of Mortgage World.


Exhibit IV-5 (continued)

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Director and Senior Management Summary Resumes

 

James C. Demetriou. Mr. Demetriou, age 74, has served as a director since 2009. Mr. Demetriou is a member of the Board of Directors of the Foundation. Mr. Demetriou is the President and Chief Executive Officer of First Management Corp., a property management company located in Astoria, New York, established in 1985 and which has a portfolio of over 130 residential, cooperative, condominium and commercial buildings. Mr. Demetriou is also a partner in the accounting firm, J. Demetriou & Co., established in 1970. In addition, Mr. Demetriou has been a New York licensed real estate broker and sponsoring broker of Archway Realty, Inc., in Astoria, New York since 1985. Furthermore, Mr. Demetriou is the President and Founder of Foxx Capital Funding, Inc. a New York licensed mortgage broker established in 1999.

Nick R. Lugo. Mr. Lugo, age 78, has served as a director since 1999 and serves as Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of Ponce Bank MHC, PDL Community Bancorp, New Ponce and Ponce Bank. Mr. Lugo is a member of the Board of Directors of the Foundation. Mr. Lugo is an investor in real estate properties located in the New York area and holds these investments in several limited liability companies. Mr. Lugo is also President of Nick Lugo Travel Corp., which he founded in 1980. In addition, Mr. Lugo is also the owner and publisher of LaVoz Hispana, a weekly newspaper. Mr. Lugo also founded in 2006 the New York City Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and serves as its Chairman and President. Mr. Lugo is a Director of the Southern Boulevard Business Improvement District.

Executive Officer Who is Not a Director

Frank Perez. Mr. Perez, age 53, was appointed Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Ponce De Leon Federal Bank in January 2017. Mr. Perez is Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of New Ponce, PDL Community Bancorp, Ponce Bank MHC and Ponce Bank. Mr. Perez is also Treasurer of the Foundation. Mr. Perez is a certified public accountant (inactive) and has over 23 years of experience in the banking industry. Prior to joining Ponce De Leon Federal Bank, Mr. Perez was, from January 2015 until July 2016, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of First Volunteer Bank, Chattanooga, Tennessee, a privately held bank. From May 2012 until January 2015, Mr. Perez was the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of First Financial Service Corporation, the bank holding company for First Federal Savings Bank of Elizabethtown, Elizabethtown, Kentucky.

Source: Ponce Financial’s prospectus.


EXHIBIT IV-6

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Pro Forma Regulatory Capital Ratios


Exhibit IV-6

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

 

                  Pro Forma at March 31, 2021, Based Upon the Sale in the Offering (1)  
     Ponce Bank     8,925,000 Shares     10,500,000 Shares     12,075,000 Shares     13,886,250 Shares  
     Historical At     (Minimum of Offering     (Midpoint of Offering     (Maximum of Offering     (Adjusted Maximum of  
     March 31, 2021     Range)     Range)     Range)     Offering Range) (2)  
     Amount      Percent
of
Assets (3)
    Amount     Percent
of
Assets (3)
    Amount     Percent
of
Assets (3)
    Amount     Percent
of
Assets (3)
    Amount     Percent
of
Assets (3)
 
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Equity

   $ 144,864        10.20   $ 176,836       12.08   $ 182,692       12.42   $ 188,548       12.75   $ 195,283       13.12

Tier 1 leverage capital

     144,836        10.78     176,808       12.75     182,664       13.10     188,520       13.45     195,255       13.84

Leverage requirement

     67,160        5.00     69,310       5.00     69,701       5.00     70,091       5.00     70,539       5.00
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Excess

     77,676        5.78     107,498       7.75     112,963       8.10     118,429       8.45     124,716       8.84

Tier 1 risk-based capital(4)

     144,836        14.54     176,808       17.60     182,664       18.16     188,520       18.71     195,255       19.34

Risk-based requirement

     79,677        8.00     80,365       8.00     80,490       8.00     80,614       8.00     80,758       8.00
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Excess

     65,159        6.54     96,443       9.60     102,174       10.16     107,906       10.71     114,497       11.34

Tier 1 risk-based capital(4)

     157,326        15.80     189,298       18.84     195,154       19.40     201,010       19.95     207,745       20.58

Risk-based requirement

     99,596        10.00     100,456       10.00     100,612       10.00     100,768       10.00     100,947       10.00
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Excess

     57,730        5.80     88,842       8.84     94,542       9.40     100,242       9.95     106,798       10.58

Common equity tier 1 capital

     144,836        14.54     176,808       17.60     182,664       18.16     188,520       18.71     195,255       19.34

Common equity tier 1 capital requirement

     64,737        6.50     65,296       6.50     65,398       6.50     65,499       6.50     65,616       6.50
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Excess

     80,099        8.04     111,512       11.10     117,266       11.66     123,021       12.21     129,639       12.84

Reconciliation of capital infused into Ponce Bank:

                     

Net proceeds

          43,003         50,806         58,609         67,582    

Less: Common stock acquired by employee stock ownership plan

          (7,354       (8,652       (9,950       (11,442  

Less: Common stock acquired by stock-based benefit plan

          (3,677       (4,326       (4,975       (5,721  
       

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

   

Pro forma increase

          31,972         37,828         43,684         50,419    

 

(1)

Pro forma capital levels assume that the employee stock ownership plan purchases 8.0% of the shares of common stock sold in the stock offering and issued to the Foundation. Pro forma generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) capital and regulatory capital have been reduced by the amount required to fund this plan. See “Management” for a discussion of the employee stock ownership plan.

(2)

As adjusted to give effect to an increase in the number of shares which could occur due to a 15% increase in the offering range to reflect demand for the shares or changes in market conditions following the commencement of the offering.

(3)

Equity and Tier 1 leverage capital levels are shown as a percentage of total average assets. Risk-based capital levels are shown as a percentage of risk-weighted assets.

(4)

Pro forma amounts and percentages assume net proceeds are invested in assets that carry a 20% risk weighting.

Source: Ponce Financial’s prospectus.


EXHIBIT IV-7

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Pro Forma Analysis Sheet


EXHIBIT IV-7

PRO FORMA ANALYSIS SHEET

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Prices as of June 1, 2021

 

               Subject            Peer Group     New York     All Public  

Valuation Midpoint Pricing Multiples

        Symbol    at Midpoint            Mean     Median     Mean     Median     Mean     Median  

Price-earnings multiple

   =    P/E     
29.66
x
 
 
       12.09x       11.17x       14.10x       11.57x       13.52x       13.42x  

Price-core earnings multiple

   =    P/CE     
70.75
x
 
 
       13.00x       12.95x       17.37x       13.70x       14.28x       13.67x  

Price-book ratio

   =    P/B      76.16        112.47     100.80     93.77     93.47     114.11     105.02

Price-tangible book ratio

   =    P/TB      76.16        114.62     105.29     107.44     106.38     126.45     112.14

Price-assets ratio

   =    P/A      12.50        14.31     12.96     9.31     8.77     14.24     13.33

 

Valuation Parameters

                  Adjusted        

Pre-Conversion Earnings (Y)

  $ 7,518,638       (12 Mths 3/21(2)     ESOP Stock (% of Offering + Foundation) (E)     8.00  

Pre-Conversion Core Earnings (YC)

  $ 3,791,638       (12 Mths 3/21(2)     Cost of ESOP Borrowings (S)     0.00  

Pre-Conversion Book Value (B)

  $ 161,294,000       (2)     ESOP Amortization (T)     20.00       Years  

Pre-Conv. Tang. Book Value (B)

  $ 161,294,000       (2)     Stock Program (% of Offering + Foundation (M)     4.00  

Pre-Conversion Assets (A)

  $ 1,433,797,000       (2)     Stock Programs Vesting (N)     5.00       Years  

Reinvestment Rate (R)

    0.92     Fixed Expenses   $ 2,436,400    

Tax rate (TAX)

    23.00     Variable Expenses (Blended Commission%)     0.91  

After Tax Reinvest. Rate (R)

    0.71     Percentage Sold (PCT)     56.1099  

Est. Conversion Expenses (1)(X)

    3.23     MHC Assets   $ 90,000    

Insider Purchases

  $ 1,000,000       Options as (% of Offering + Foundation) (O1)     10.00  

Price/Share

  $ 10.00       Estimated Option Value (O2)     35.50  

Foundation Cash Contribution (FC)

  $ 1,000,000       Option Vesting Period (O3)     5.00       Years  

Foundation Stock Contribution (FS)

  $ 3,150,000       % of Options taxable (O4)     25.00  

Foundation Tax Benefit (FT)

  $ 954,500          

Calculation of Pro Forma Value After Conversion

 

1.    V=   

P/E * (Y - FC * R)

   V=    $190,282,790
      1 - P/E * PCT * ((1-X-E-M-FS)*R - (1-TAX)*(E/T) - (1-TAX)*(M/N)-(1-TAX*O4)*(O1*O2/O3)))      
2.    V=   

P/Core E * (YC)

   V=    $190,282,790
      1 - P/Core E * PCT * ((1-X-E-M-FS)*R - (1-TAX)*(E/T) - (1-TAX)*(M/N)-(1-TAX*O4)*(O1*O2/O3)))      
3.    V=          P/B * (B-FC+FT)                                            V=    $190,282,790
            1 - P/B * PCT * (1-X-E-M)      
4.    V=          P/TB * (B-FC+FT)                                          V=    $190,282,790
            1 - P/TB * PCT * (1-X-E-M)      
5.    V=          P/A * (A-FC+FT)                                            V=    $190,282,790
            1 - P/A * PCT * (1-X-E-M)      

Shares

 

            2nd Step      Full      Plus:      Total Market         
     2nd Step      Exchange      Conversion      Foundation      Capitalization      Exchange  

Conclusion

   Offering Shares      Shares      Shares      Shares      Shares      Ratio  

Super Maximum

     13,886,250        10,862,061        24,748,311        416,588        25,164,899        1.4535  

Maximum

     12,075,000        9,445,271        21,520,271        362,250        21,882,521        1.2639  

Midpoint

     10,500,000        8,213,279        18,713,279        315,000        19,028,279        1.0991  

Minimum

     8,925,000        6,981,287        15,906,287        267,750        16,174,037        0.9342  

Market Value

 

            2nd Step      Full             Total Market  
     2nd Step      Exchange      Conversion      Foundation      Capitalization  

Conclusion

   Offering Value      Shares Value      $Value      $Value      $Value  

Super Maximum

   $ 138,862,500      $ 108,620,610      $ 247,483,110      $ 4,165,880      $ 251,648,990  

Maximum

   $ 120,750,000      $ 94,452,710      $ 215,202,710        3,622,500      $ 218,825,210  

Midpoint

   $ 105,000,000      $ 82,132,790      $ 187,132,790        3,150,000      $ 190,282,790  

Minimum

   $ 89,250,000      $ 69,812,870      $ 159,062,870        2,677,500      $ 161,740,370  

 

(1)

Estimated offering expenses at midpoint of the offering.

(2)

Adjusted to reflect consolidation and reinvesment of $90,000 of MHC net assets.


EXHIBIT IV-8

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Pro Forma Effect of Conversion Proceeds


Exhibit IV-8

PRO FORMA EFFECT OF CONVERSION PROCEEDS

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

At the Minimum of the Range

 

1. Fully Converted Value and Exchange Ratio

  

Fully Converted Value

   $ 161,740,370  

Exchange Ratio

     0.93422  

2nd Step Offering Proceeds

   $ 89,250,000  

Less: Estimated Offering Expenses

     3,243,410  
  

 

 

 

2nd Step Net Conversion Proceeds

   $ 86,006,590  

2. Estimated Additional Income from Conversion Proceeds

  

Net Conversion Proceeds

   $ 86,006,590  

Less: Cash Contribution to Foundation

     (1,000,000

Less: ESOP Stock Purchases (1)

     (7,354,200

Less: RRP Stock Purchases (2)

     (3,677,100
  

 

 

 

Net Cash Proceeds

   $ 73,975,290  

Estimated after-tax net incremental rate of return

     0.71
  

 

 

 

Earnings Increase

   $ 524,041  

Less: Consolidated interest cost of ESOP borrowings

     0  

Less: Amortization of ESOP borrowings(3)

     (283,137

Less: RRP Vesting (3)

     (566,273

Less: Option Plan Vesting (4)

     (615,156
  

 

 

 

Net Earnings Increase

   ($ 940,525

 

                   Net        
            Before      Earnings     After  
3. Pro Forma Earnings   

 

     Conversion(5)      Increase     Conversion  

12 Months ended March 31, 2021 (reported)

      $ 7,518,638      ($ 940,525   $ 6,578,113  

12 Months ended March 31, 2021 (core)

      $ 3,791,638      ($ 940,525   $ 2,851,113  

 

     Before      Net Cash      Tax
Benefit
     After  
4. Pro Forma Net Worth    Conversion(5)      Proceeds      and Other      Conversion  

March 31, 2021

   $ 161,294,000      $ 73,975,290      $ 845,825      $ 236,115,115  

March 31, 2021 (Tangible)

   $ 161,294,000      $ 73,975,290      $ 845,825      $ 236,115,115  
     Before      Net Cash      Tax
Benefit
     After  
5.Pro Forma Assets    Conversion(5)      Proceeds      and Other      Conversion  

March 31, 2021

   $ 1,433,797,000      $ 73,975,290      $ 845,825      $ 1,508,618,115  

 

(1)

Includes ESOP purchases of 8.0% of the second step offering and Foundation shares.

(2)

Includes RRP purchases of 4.0% of the second step offering and Foundation shares.

(3)

ESOP amortized over 20 years, RRP amortized over 5 years, tax effected at:                 23.00%

(4)

Option valuation based on Black-Scholes model, 5 year vesting, and assuming 25% of the options are taxable.

(5)

Adjusted to reflect consolidation and reinvestment of net MHC assets.


Exhibit IV-8

PRO FORMA EFFECT OF CONVERSION PROCEEDS

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

At the Midpoint of the Range

 

1. Fully Converted Value and Exchange Ratio

  

Fully Converted Value

   $ 190,282,790  

Exchange Ratio

     1.09908  

2nd Step Offering Proceeds

   $ 105,000,000  

Less: Estimated Offering Expenses

     3,387,930  
  

 

 

 

2nd Step Net Conversion Proceeds

   $ 101,612,070  

2. Estimated Additional Income from Conversion Proceeds

  

Net Conversion Proceeds

   $ 101,612,070  

Less: Cash Contribution to Foundation

     (1,000,000

Less: ESOP Stock Purchases (1)

     (8,652,000

Less: RRP Stock Purchases (2)

     (4,326,000
  

 

 

 

Net Cash Proceeds

   $ 87,634,070  

Estimated after-tax net incremental rate of return

     0.71
  

 

 

 

Earnings Increase

   $ 620,800  

Less: Consolidated interest cost of ESOP borrowings

     0  

Less: Amortization of ESOP borrowings(3)

     (333,102

Less: RRP Vesting (3)

     (666,204

Less: Option Plan Vesting (4)

     (723,713
  

 

 

 

Net Earnings Increase

   ($ 1,102,219

 

     Before     

Net

Earnings

    After  
3. Pro Forma Earnings    Conversion(5)      Increase     Conversion  

12 Months ended March 31, 2021 (reported)

   $ 7,518,638      ($ 1,102,219   $ 6,416,419  

12 Months ended March 31, 2021 (core)

   $ 3,791,638      ($ 1,102,219   $ 2,689,419  

 

     Before      Net Cash      Tax Benefit      After  
4. Pro Forma Net Worth    Conversion (5)      Proceeds      of Foundation      Conversion  

March 31, 2021

   $ 161,294,000      $ 87,634,070      $ 954,500      $ 249,882,570  

March 31, 2021 (Tangible)

   $ 161,294,000      $ 87,634,070      $ 954,500      $ 249,882,570  
     Before      Net Cash      Tax Benefit      After  
5. Pro Forma Assets    Conversion (5)      Proceeds      of Foundation      Conversion  

March 31, 2021

   $ 1,433,797,000      $ 87,634,070      $ 954,500      $ 1,522,385,570  

 

(1)

Includes ESOP purchases of 8.0% of the second step offering and Foundation shares.

(2)

Includes RRP purchases of 4.0% of the second step offering and Foundation shares.

(3)

ESOP amortized over 20 years, RRP amortized over 5 years, tax effected at: 23.00%

(4)

Option valuation based on Black-Scholes model, 5 year vesting, and assuming 25% of the options are taxable.

(5)

Adjusted to reflect consolidation and reinvestment of net MHC assets.


Exhibit IV-8

PRO FORMA EFFECT OF CONVERSION PROCEEDS

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

At the Maximum of the Range

 

1. Fully Converted Value and Exchange Ratio

  

Fully Converted Value

   $ 218,825,210  

Exchange Ratio

     1.26394  

2nd Step Offering Proceeds

   $ 120,750,000  

Less: Estimated Offering Expenses

     3,532,450  
  

 

 

 

2nd Step Net Conversion Proceeds

   $ 117,217,550  

2. Estimated Additional Income from Conversion Proceeds

  

Net Conversion Proceeds

   $ 117,217,550  

Less: Cash Contribution to Foundation

     (1,000,000

Less: ESOP Stock Purchases (1)

     (9,949,800

Less: RRP Stock Purchases (2)

     (4,974,900
  

 

 

 

Net Cash Proceeds

   $ 101,292,850  

Estimated after-tax net incremental rate of return

     0.71
  

 

 

 

Earnings Increase

   $ 717,559  

Less: Consolidated interest cost of ESOP borrowings

     0  

Less: Amortization of ESOP borrowings(3)

     (383,067

Less: RRP Vesting (3)

     (766,135

Less: Option Plan Vesting (4)

     (832,270
  

 

 

 

Net Earnings Increase

   ($ 1,263,913

 

            Net        
     Before      Earnings     After  
3. Pro Forma Earnings    Conversion(5)      Increase     Conversion  

12 Months ended March 31, 2021 (reported)

   $ 7,518,638      ($ 1,263,913   $ 6,254,725  

12 Months ended March 31, 2021 (core)

   $ 3,791,638      ($ 1,263,913   $ 2,527,725  

 

     Before      Net Cash      Tax Benefit      After  
4. Pro Forma Net Worth    Conversion (5)      Proceeds      of Foundation      Conversion  

March 31, 2021

   $ 161,294,000      $ 101,292,850      $ 1,063,175      $ 263,650,025  

March 31, 2021 (Tangible)

   $ 161,294,000      $ 101,292,850      $ 1,063,175      $ 263,650,025  
     Before      Net Cash      Tax Benefit      After  
5. Pro Forma Assets    Conversion (5)      Proceeds      of Foundation      Conversion  

March 31, 2021

   $ 1,433,797,000      $ 101,292,850      $ 1,063,175      $ 1,536,153,025  

 

(1)

Includes ESOP purchases of 8.0% of the second step offering and Foundation shares.

(2)

Includes RRP purchases of 4.0% of the second step offering and Foundation shares.

(3)

ESOP amortized over 20 years, RRP amortized over 5 years, tax effected at: 23.00%

(4)

Option valuation based on Black-Scholes model, 5 year vesting, and assuming 25% of the options are taxable

(5)

Adjusted to reflect consolidation and reinvestment of net MHC assets.


Exhibit IV-8

PRO FORMA EFFECT OF CONVERSION PROCEEDS

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

At the Super Maximum Value

 

1. Fully Converted Value and Exchange Ratio

  

Fully Converted Value

   $ 251,648,990  

Exchange Ratio

     1.45353  

2nd Step Offering Proceeds

   $ 138,862,500  

Less: Estimated Offering Expenses

     3,698,655  
  

 

 

 

2nd Step Net Conversion Proceeds

   $ 135,163,845  
2. Estimated Additional Income from Conversion Proceeds   

Net Conversion Proceeds

   $ 135,163,845  

Less: Cash Contribution to Foundation

     (1,000,000

Less: ESOP Stock Purchases (1)

     (11,442,270

Less: RRP Stock Purchases (2)

     (5,721,135
  

 

 

 

Net Cash Proceeds

   $ 117,000,439  

Estimated after-tax net incremental rate of return

     0.71
  

 

 

 

Earnings Increase

   $ 828,831  

Less: Consolidated interest cost of ESOP borrowings

     0  

Less: Amortization of ESOP borrowings (3)

     (440,527

Less: RRP Vesting (3)

     (881,055

Less: Option Plan Vesting (4)

     (957,110
  

 

 

 

Net Earnings Increase

   ($ 1,449,861

 

            Net        
     Before      Earnings     After  
3. Pro Forma Earnings    Conversion(5)      Decrease     Conversion  

12 Months ended March 31, 2021 (reported)

   $ 7,518,638      ($ 1,449,861   $ 6,068,776  

12 Months ended March 31, 2021 (core)

   $ 3,791,638      ($ 1,449,861   $ 2,341,776  

 

     Before      Net Cash      Tax Benefit      After  
4. Pro Forma Net Worth    Conversion (5)      Proceeds      of Foundation      Conversion  

March 31, 2021

   $ 161,294,000      $ 117,000,439      $ 1,188,151      $ 279,482,590  

March 31, 2021 (Tangible)

   $ 161,294,000      $ 117,000,439      $ 1,188,151      $ 279,482,590  
     Before      Net Cash      Tax Benefit      After  
5. Pro Forma Assets    Conversion (5)      Proceeds      of Foundation      Conversion  

March 31, 2021

   $ 1,433,797,000      $ 117,000,439      $ 1,188,151      $ 1,551,985,590  

 

(1)

Includes ESOP purchases of 8.0% of the second step offering and Foundation shares.

(2)

Includes RRP purchases of 4.0% of the second step offering and Foundation shares.

(3)

ESOP amortized over 20 years, RRP amortized over 5 years, tax effected at:                23.00%

(4)

Option valuation based on Black-Scholes model, 5 year vesting, and assuming 25% of the options are taxable.

(5)

Adjusted to reflect consolidation and reinvestment of net MHC assets.


EXHIBIT IV-9

Calculation of Minority Ownership Dilution in a Second-Step Offering


Exhibit IV-9

Ponce Financial Group, Inc.

Calculation of Minority Ownership Dilution in a Second-Step Offering

Stock Ownership Data as of March 31, 2021

Financial Data as of March 31, 2021

Reflects Pro Forma Market Value as of June 1, 2021

 

Key Input Assumptions      
Mid-Tier Stockholders’ Equity      $161,204,000      (BOOK)
Aggregate Dividends Waived by MHC      $0      (WAIVED DIVIDENDS)
Minority Ownership Interest      43.9109%      (PCT)
Pro Forma Market Value      $190,282,790      (VALUE)
Market Value of MHC Assets (Other than Stock in Mid-Tier)      $90,000      (MHC ASSETS)

Adjustment for MHC Assets & Waived Dividends - 2 Step Calculation (as required by FDIC & FRB)

 

      (BOOK - WAIVED DIVIDENDS) x PCT
Step 1: To Account for Waiver of Dividends    =   

BOOK

   =   

43.9109%

      (VALUE - MHC ASSETS) x Step 1
Step 2: To Account for MHC Assets    =   

VALUE

   =   

43.8901% (rounded)

     

Current Ownership

 

MHC Shares

     9,545,388        56.09

Public Shares

     7,472,864        43.91
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Shares

     17,018,252        100.00
     


EXHIBIT V-1

RP® Financial, LC.

Firm Qualifications Statement


LOGO

FIRM QUALIFICATION STATEMENT

RP® Financial (“RP®) provides financial and management consulting, merger advisory and valuation services to the financial services industry nationwide. We offer a broad array of services, high quality and prompt service, hands-on involvement by principals and senior staff, careful structuring of strategic initiatives and sophisticated valuation and other analyses consistent with industry practices and regulatory requirements. Our staff maintains extensive background in financial and management consulting, valuation and investment banking. Our clients include commercial banks, thrifts, credit unions, mortgage companies, insurance companies and other financial services companies.

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RP®’s strategic planning services are designed to provide effective feasible plans with quantifiable results. We analyze strategic options to enhance shareholder value, achieve regulatory approval or realize other objectives. Such services involve conducting situation analyses; establishing mission/vision statements, developing strategic goals and objectives; and identifying strategies to enhance franchise and/or market value, capital management, earnings enhancement, operational matters and organizational issues. Strategic recommendations typically focus on: capital formation and management, asset/liability targets, profitability, return on equity and stock pricing. Our proprietary financial simulation models provide the basis for evaluating the impact of various strategies and assessing their feasibility and compatibility with regulations.

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RP®’s merger advisory services include targeting potential buyers and sellers, assessing acquisition merit, conducting due diligence, negotiating and structuring merger transactions, preparing merger business plans and financial simulations, rendering fairness opinions, preparing mark-to-market analyses, valuing intangible assets and supporting the implementation of post-acquisition strategies. Our merger advisory services involve transactions of financially healthy companies and failed bank deals. RP® is also expert in de novo charters and shelf charters. Through financial simulations, comprehensive data bases, valuation proficiency and regulatory familiarity, RP®’s merger advisory services center on enhancing shareholder returns.

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KEY PERSONNEL (Years of Relevant Experience & Contact Information)

 

Ronald S. Riggins, Managing Director (40)    (703) 647-6543    rriggins@rpfinancial.com
William E. Pommerening, Managing Director (36)    (703) 647-6546    wpommerening@rpfinancial.com
Gregory E. Dunn, Director (37)    (703) 647-6548    gdunn@rpfinancial.com
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James J. Oren, Director (33)    (703) 647-6549    joren@rpfinancial.com

 

 

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