Nature of Business — The consolidated financial statements of Horizon Bancorp, Inc. (“Horizon”) and its wholly owned subsidiaries, Horizon Bank (“Bank”) and Horizon Risk Management, Inc., together referred to as “Horizon,” conform to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America and reporting practices followed by the banking industry. Horizon Risk Management, Inc. is a captive insurance company incorporated in Nevada and was formed as a wholly owned subsidiary of Horizon.

The Bank is a full–service commercial bank offering a broad range of commercial and retail banking and other services incident to banking along with a trust department that offers corporate and individual trust and agency services and investment management services. The Bank maintains 73 full service offices. The Bank has wholly owned direct and indirect subsidiaries: Horizon Investments, Inc. (“Horizon Investments”), Horizon Properties, Inc. (“Horizon Properties”), Horizon Insurance Services, Inc. (“Horizon Insurance”) and Horizon Grantor Trust. Horizon Investments manages the investment portfolio of the Bank. Horizon Properties manages the real estate investment trust. Horizon Insurance is used by the Company’s Wealth Management to sell certain insurance products. Horizon Grantor Trust holds title to certain company owned life insurance policies. Horizon conducts no business except that incident to its ownership of the subsidiaries.

Horizon formed Horizon Bancorp Capital Trust II in 2004 (“Trust II”) and Horizon Bancorp Capital Trust III in 2006 (“Trust III”) for the purpose of participating in pooled trust preferred securities offerings. The Company assumed additional debentures as the result of the following acquisitions: Alliance Financial Corporation in 2005, which formed Alliance Financial Statutory Trust I (“Alliance Trust”); American Trust & Savings Bank in 2010, which formed Am Tru Statutory Trust I (“Am Tru Trust”); Heartland Bancshares, Inc. in 2013, which formed Heartland (IN) Statutory Trust II (“Heartland Trust”); LaPorte Bancorp, Inc. in 2016, which had acquired City Savings Statutory Trust I (“City Savings Trust”); and Salin Bancshares, Inc. in 2019, which formed Salin Statutory Trust I (“Salin Trust”). See Note 15 of the Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion regarding these previously consolidated entities that are now reported separately. The business of Horizon is not seasonal to any material degree.

Use of Estimates — The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Business Combinations — Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting. The accounts of an acquired entity are included as of the date of acquisition, and any excess of purchase price over the fair value of the net assets acquired is capitalized as goodwill. Horizon typically issues Common Stock and/or pays cash for an acquisition, depending on the terms of the acquisition agreement. The value of Common Stock issued is determined based on the market price of the stock as of the closing of the acquisition. Acquisition costs are expensed when incurred.

As defined in codification, fair value is the price to sell an asset or transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. It represents an exit price at the measurement date. Market participants are buyers and sellers, who are independent, knowledgeable, and willing and able to transact in the principal (or most advantageous) market for the asset or liability being measured. Current market conditions, including imbalances between supply and demand, are considered in determining fair value. Horizon values its assets and liabilities in the principal market where it sells the particular asset or transfers the liability with the greatest volume and level of activity. In the absence of a principal market, the valuation is based on the most advantageous market for the asset or liability (i.e., the market where the asset could be sold or the liability transferred at a price that maximizes the amount to be received for the asset or minimizes the amount to be paid to transfer the liability).

When measuring the fair value of a liability, Horizon assumes that the nonperformance risk associated with the liability is the same before and after the transfer. Nonperformance risk is the risk that an obligation will not be satisfied and encompasses not only Horizon’s own credit risk (i.e., the risk that Horizon will fail to meet its obligation), but also other risks such as settlement risk. Horizon considers the effect of its own credit risk on the fair value for any period in which fair value is measured.

There are three acceptable valuation techniques that can be used to measure fair value: the market approach, the income approach and the cost approach. Selection of the appropriate technique for valuing a particular asset or liability takes into consideration the exit market, the nature of the asset or liability being valued, and how a market participant would value the same asset or liability. Ultimately, determination of the appropriate valuation method requires significant judgment, and sufficient knowledge and expertise are required to apply the valuation techniques.

Valuation inputs refer to the assumptions market participants would use in pricing a given asset or liability using one of the three valuation techniques. Inputs can be observable or unobservable. Observable inputs are those assumptions which market participants would use in pricing the particular asset or liability. These inputs are based on market data and are obtained from a source independent of Horizon. Unobservable inputs are assumptions based on Horizon’s own information or estimate of assumptions used by market participants in pricing the asset or liability. Unobservable inputs are based on the best and most current information available on the measurement date. All inputs, whether observable or unobservable, are ranked in accordance with a prescribed fair value hierarchy which gives the highest ranking to quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest ranking to unobservable inputs (Level 3). Fair values for assets or liabilities classified as Level 2 are based on one or a combination of the following factors: (i) quoted prices for similar assets; (ii) observable inputs for the asset or liability, such as interest rates or yield curves; or (iii) inputs derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data. The level in the fair value hierarchy within which the fair value measurement in its entirety falls is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The Company considers an input to be significant if it drives 10% or more of the total fair value of a particular asset or liability.

Assets and liabilities are considered to be fair valued on a recurring basis if fair value is measured regularly (i.e., daily, weekly, monthly or quarterly). Recurring valuation occurs at a minimum on the measurement date. Assets and liabilities are considered to be fair valued on a nonrecurring basis if the fair value measurement of the instrument does not necessarily result in a change in the amount recorded on the balance sheet. Generally, nonrecurring valuation is the result of the application of other accounting pronouncements which require assets or liabilities to be assessed for impairment or recorded at the lower of cost or fair value. The fair value of assets or liabilities transferred in or out of Level 3 is measured on the transfer date, with any additional changes in fair value subsequent to the transfer considered to be realized or unrealized gains or losses.

Investment Securities Available for Sale — Horizon designates the majority of its investment portfolio as available for sale based on management’s plans to use such securities for asset and liability management, liquidity and not to hold such securities as long-term investments. Management repositions the portfolio to take advantage of future expected interest rate trends when Horizon’s long-term profitability can be enhanced. Investment securities available for sale and marketable equity securities are carried at estimated fair value and any net unrealized gains/losses (after tax) on these securities are included in accumulated other comprehensive income. Amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts are recorded as interest income from securities. Gains/losses on the disposition of securities available for sale are recognized at the time of the transaction and are determined by the specific identification method.

Loans — Loans that management has the intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future or until maturity or payoff are reported at amortized cost. Amortized cost is the principal balance outstanding, net of purchase premiums and discounts, deferred loan fees and costs. Accrued interest receivable totaling $13.3 million at December 31, 2020 was excluded from the Allowance for Credit Losses (“ACL”) calculation and was reported in accrued interest receivable on the consolidated balance sheet. Interest income is accrued on the unpaid principal balance. Loan origination fees, net of certain direct origination costs, are deferred and recognized in interest income using the effective yield method without anticipating prepayments.

Interest on commercial, mortgage and installment loans is recognized over the term of the loans based on the principal amount outstanding. When principal or interest is past due 90 days or more, and the loan is not well secured or in the process of collection, or when serious doubt exists as to the collectability of a loan, the accrual of interest is discontinued. Loan origination fees, net of direct loan origination costs, are deferred and recognized over the life of the loan as a yield adjustment. Discounts and premiums on purchased loans are amortized to income using the interest method over the remaining period to contractual maturity, adjusted for anticipated prepayments.

From time to time, the Bank obtains information that may lead management to believe that the collection of payments may be doubtful on a particular loan. In recognition of this, it is management's policy to convert the loan from an “earning asset” to a non–accruing loan. The entire balance of a loan is considered delinquent if the minimum payment contractually required to be made is not received by the specified due date. Further, it is management's policy to generally place a loan on non–accrual status when the payment is delinquent in excess of 90 days or the loan has had the accrual of interest discontinued by management. The officer responsible for the loan and the Chief Commercial Banking and/or the Chief Operations Officer must review all loans placed on non–accrual status. Subsequent payments on non–accrual loans are recorded as a reduction of principal, and interest income is recorded only after principal recovery is reasonably assured. Non–accrual loans are returned to accrual status when, in the opinion of management, the financial position of the borrower indicates there is no longer any reasonable doubt as to the timely collection of interest or principal in accordance with the loan terms. The Company requires a period of satisfactory performance of not less than six months before returning a non–accrual loan to accrual status.

Expected credit losses are estimated over the contractual term of the loans, adjusted for expected prepayments when appropriate. The contractual term excludes expected extensions, renewals and modifications unless either of the following applies: management has a reasonable expectation at the reporting date that a troubled debt restructuring will be executed with an individual borrower or the extension or renewal options are included in the original or modified contract at the reporting date and are not unconditionally cancellable by the Company.

For all loan portfolio segments except 1–4 family residential properties and consumer, the Company promptly charges off loans, or portions thereof, when available information confirms that specific loans are uncollectible based on information that includes, but is not limited to, (1) the deteriorating financial condition of the borrower, (2) declining collateral values, and/or (3) legal action, including bankruptcy, that impairs the borrower's ability to adequately meet its obligations. For impaired loans that are considered to be solely collateral dependent, a partial

The Company charges off 1–4 family residential and consumer loans, or portions thereof, when the Company reasonably determines the amount of the loss. The Company adheres to timeframes established by applicable regulatory guidance which provides for the charge–down or specific allocation of family first and junior lien mortgages to the net realizable value less costs to sell when the value is known but no later than when a loan is 180 days past due. Pursuant to such guidelines, the Company also charges off unsecured open–end loans when the loan is contractually 90 days past due. Loans at these respective delinquency thresholds for which the Company can clearly document that the loan is both well–secured and in the process of collection, such that collection in full will occur regardless of delinquency status, are not charged off.

A loan is individually evaluated when, based on current information, a creditor may be experiencing financial difficulty and repayment is substantially expected through operation or sale of collateral. For collateral–dependent assets individually evaluated, the Company utilizes, as a practical expedient, the fair value of collateral, adjusted for estimated costs to sell, when determining the allowance for credit losses.

Purchased Credit Deteriorated (“PCD”) Loans — The Company has purchased loans, some of which have experienced credit deterioration since origination. PCD loans are recorded at the amount paid. An ACL on loans is determined using the same methodology as other loans held for investment. The initial ACL on loans determined on a collective basis is allocated to individual loans. The sum of the loan’s purchase price and ACL on loans becomes its initial amortized cost basis. The difference between the initial amortized cost basis and the par value of the loan is a noncredit discount or premium, which is amortized or accreted into interest income over the remaining life of the loan. Subsequent changes to the ACL on loans are recorded through credit loss expense.

As discussed in Adoption of New Accounting Standards later in Note 1, the Company adopted ASU 326 using the prospective transition approach for PCD loans previously accounted for under ASC 310–30. In accordance with the standard, we did not assess whether Purchase Credit Impaired (“PCI”) loans met the criteria of PCD as of the date of adoption and all loans previously classified as PCI were updated to the PCD classification. Pools utilized for PCI accounting under ASC 310–30 were not considered since the Company did not have PCI pools at the time of adoption. PCD loans were assessed using prior specific loan reviews for the initial PCD loan ACL.

Loans Held for Sale — Mortgage loans originated and intended for sale in the secondary market are carried at the lower of cost or fair value in the aggregate. Net unrealized losses, if any, are recognized through a valuation allowance by charges to non–interest income. Gains and losses on loan sales are recorded in non–interest income, and direct loan origination costs and fees are deferred at origination of the loan and are recognized in non–interest income upon sale of the loan.

Concentrations of Credit Risk — The Bank grants commercial, real estate, and consumer loans to customers located primarily in the northern and central regions of Indiana and the southern and central regions of Michigan and provides mortgage warehouse lines to mortgage companies in the United States. Commercial loans make up approximately 57% of the loan portfolio and are secured by both real estate and business assets. These loans are expected to be repaid from cash flows from operations of the businesses. The Bank does not have a concentration in speculative commercial real estate loans. Residential real estate loans make up approximately 16% of the loan portfolio and are secured by residential real estate. Installment loans make up approximately 17% of the loan portfolio and are primarily secured by consumer assets. Mortgage warehouse loans make up approximately 10% of the loan portfolio and are secured by residential real estate.

Allowance for Credit Losses on Loans — The ACL on loans is a valuation account that is deducted from the loans’ amortized cost basis to present the net amount expected to be collected on the loans. Loans are charged off against the allowance when management believes the loan balance is confirmed to be no longer collectible. Expected recoveries do not exceed the aggregate of amounts previously charged off and expected to be charged off.

Management estimates the ACL balance using relevant information, from internal and external sources, relating to past events, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. Historical credit loss experience provides the basis for the estimation of expected credit losses. Adjustments to historical loss information are made for differences in current loan–specific risk characteristics such as differences in underwriting standards, portfolio mix, delinquency level, or term as well as for changes in environmental conditions, changes in economic conditions, or other relevant factors.

The Company considers the following when estimating credit losses: 1) available information relevant to assessing the collectibility of cash flows including internal information, external information or a combination of both relating to past events, current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts; 2) relevant qualitative and quantitative factors relating to the environment in which the Company operates and factors specific to the borrower; 3) off–balance sheet credit exposures; and credit support.

ACL on loans is measured on a collective basis and reflects impairment in groups of loans aggregated on the basis of similar risk characteristics which may include any one or a combination of the following: internal credit ratings, risk ratings or classification, financial asset type, collateral type, size, industry of the borrower, historical or expected credit loss patterns, and reasonable and supportable forecast periods. The ACL for a specific portfolio segment is computed by multiplying the loss rate by the amortized cost balance of the segment with adjustments for other qualitative factors as described above. As appropriate, newer credit products or portfolios with limited historical loss may use applicable external data for determining the ACL until experience justifies that sufficient product maturity supports the estimate of expected credit losses.

Pursuant to ASC 326–20–30–9, an entity shall not rely solely on past events to estimate expected credit losses, and should consider adjustments to historical information to reflect the extent to which management expects current conditions and forecasted conditions to differ from the periods utilized for the historical loss rate calculation. Management has incorporated an adjustment of the historical loss rate calculated within the model to reflect current and forecasted condition and has applied this adjustment on a qualitative factor basis to the aggregate pool loss rate.

The qualitative adjustment is based on a combination of external econometric data and internal factors such as portfolio composition, changes in management, changes in loan policy and other factors. The economic forecast is based in part on economic indexes and quantitative matrices with a six to twelve month forecast. The qualitative adjustment is calculated based on current and forecasted conditions and evaluated each quarter by management, and therefore is dynamic in nature. As a result of the forecast being applied as a qualitative factor and adjusted quarterly, no reversion to the historical loss rate is necessary, as the historical base loss rate is preserved in the calculation of “all in” loss rate.

Specific reserves reflect collateral shortfalls on loans identified for evaluation or individually considered non–performing, including troubled debt restructurings and receivables where the Company has determined foreclosure is probable. These loans no longer have similar risk characteristics to collectively evaluated loans due to changes in credit risk, borrower circumstances, recognition of write–offs, or cash collections that have been fully applied to principal on the basis of non–accrual policies. At a minimum, the population of loans subject to individual evaluation include individual loans and leases where it is probable we will be unable to collect all amounts due, according to the original contractual terms. These include commercial impaired loans, jumbo residential mortgages (as defined), and jumbo home equity loans with a balance exceeding $250,000, and other loans as determined by management. ACL for residential and consumer loans are, primarily, determined by pools of similar loans and are evaluated on a quarterly basis.

Allowance for Loan Losses (Prior to January 1, 2020) — An allowance for loan losses was maintained to absorb probable incurred losses inherent in the loan portfolio. The allowance was based on ongoing quarterly assessments of the probable incurred losses inherent in the loan portfolio. The allowance was increased by the provision for credit losses, which is charged against current period operating results and decreased by the amount of charge offs, net of recoveries. Horizon's methodology for assessing the appropriateness of the allowance consisted of several key elements, which included the general allowance, specific allowances for identified problem loans and the qualitative allowance.

The qualitative allowance was based upon management's evaluation of various conditions, the effects of which were not directly measured in the determination of the general and specific allowances. The evaluation of the inherent loss with respect to these conditions was subject to a higher degree of uncertainty because they are not identified with specific credits. The conditions evaluated in connection with the qualitative allowance may have included factors such as local, regional and national economic conditions and forecasts, concentrations of credit and changes in the composition of the portfolio.

Troubled Debt Restructurings (“TDR”) — A loan for which the terms have been modified resulting in a concession, and for which the borrower is experiencing financial difficulties, is considered to be a TDR. The ACL on loans on a TDR is measured using the same method as all other loans held for investment, except that the original interest rate is used to discount the expected cash flows, not the rate specified within the restructuring.

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (“CARES”) Act provides all banks with the option to elect either or both of the following from March 1, 2020 until the earlier of December 31, 2020 or the date that is 60 days after termination of the national emergency. Section 4013 of the CARES Act was amended on December 27, 2020 to extend this relief period until January 1, 2022. Specific applicable provisions of the CARES Act allow:

If a bank elects a suspension noted above, the suspension (i) will be effective for the term of the loan modification, but solely with respect to any modification, including a forbearance arrangement, an interest rate modification, a repayment plan, and any other similar arrangement that defers or delays the payment of principal or interest, that occurs during the applicable period for a loan that was not more than 30 days past due as of December 31, 2019; and (ii) will not apply to any adverse impact on the credit of a borrower that is not related to the COVID–19 pandemic.

Allowance for Credit Losses on Off–Balance Sheet (“OBS”) Credit Exposures — The Company estimates expected credit losses over the contractual period in which the Company is exposed to credit risk via a contractual obligation to extend credit, unless that obligation is unconditionally cancellable by the Company. The Company determines the estimated amount of expected credit extensions based on historical usage to calculate the amount of exposure for a loss estimate. After review of the expected credit losses on OBS, the Company determined the amount not being recorded as immaterial at this time.

Allowance for Credit Losses on Available for Sale Securities — For available for sale debt securities in an unrealized loss position, the Company first assesses whether it intends to sell, or it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell, the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis. If either of the criteria regarding intent or requirement to sell is met, the security’s amortized cost basis is written down to fair value through income. For debt securities available for sale that do not meet the aforementioned criteria, the Company evaluates whether the

decline in fair value has resulted from credit losses or other factors. In making this assessment, management considers the extent to which fair value is less than amortized cost, any changes to the rating of the security by a rating agency, and adverse conditions specifically related to the security, among other factors. If this assessment indicates that a credit loss exists, the present value of cash flows expected to be collected from the security are compared to the amortized cost basis of the security. If the present value of cash flows expected to be collected is less than the amortized cost basis, a credit loss exists and an ACL is recorded for the credit loss, limited by the amount that the fair value is less than the amortized cost basis. Any impairment that has not been recorded through an ACL is recorded in other comprehensive income.

Allowance for Credit Losses on Held to Maturity Securities — For held to maturity securities, the Company conducts an assessment of its held to maturity securities at the time of purchase and on at least an annual basis to ensure such investment securities remain within appropriate levels of risk and continue to perform satisfactorily in fulfilling its obligations. The Company considers, among other factors, the nature of the securities and credit ratings or financial condition of the issuer. If available, the Company obtains a credit rating for issuers from the Nationally Recognized Statistical Rating Organization (“NRSRO”) for consideration. If this assessment indicates that a material credit loss exists, the present value of cash flows expected to be collected from the security are compared to the amortized cost basis of the security. If the present value of cash flows expected to be collected is less than the amortized cost basis, a credit loss exists and an ACL is recorded for the credit loss. After completing this assessment, management determined any credit losses as of December 31, 2020 were not material to the consolidated financial statements.

Premises and Equipment — Buildings and major improvements are capitalized and depreciated using primarily the straight-line method with useful lives ranging from 3 to 40 years. Furniture and equipment are capitalized and depreciated using primarily the straight-line method with useful lives ranging from 2 to 20 years. Maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred while major additions and improvements are capitalized. Gains and losses on disposition are included in current operations.

Partnership Investments — The partnerships have elected to account for certain partnership investments in qualified affordable housing and solar tax credits using the proportional amortization method. Under the proportional amortization method, the initial cost of the investment is amortized to income tax expense in proportion to the tax credits and other tax benefits received. This net investment performance is recognized in the income statement as a component of income tax expense. The investment in the limited partnerships totaling $2.3 million and $1.2 million at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively is included in other assets in the consolidated balance sheets. in which the Company has investments account for their investments at fair value.

Mortgage Servicing Rights —Mortgage servicing assets are recognized separately when rights are acquired through purchase or through sale of financial assets. Under the servicing assets and liabilities accounting guidance (ASC 860-50), servicing rights resulting from the sale or securitization of loans originated by the Company are initially measured at fair value at the date of transfer. Amortized mortgage servicing rights include commercial mortgage servicing rights. Under the amortization method, servicing rights are amortized in proportion to and over the period of estimated net servicing income. The amortized assets are assessed for impairment or increased obligation based on fair value at each reporting date.

Fair value is based on market prices for comparable mortgage servicing contracts, when available, or alternatively, is based on a valuation model that calculates the present value of estimated future net servicing income. The valuation model incorporates assumptions that market participants would use in estimating future net servicing income, such as the cost to service, the discount rate, the custodial earnings rate, an inflation rate, ancillary income, prepayment speeds and default rates and losses. These variables change from quarter to quarter as market

Each class of separately recognized servicing assets subsequently measured using the amortization method are evaluated and measured for impairment. Impairment is determined by stratifying rights into tranches based on predominant characteristics, such as interest rate, loan type and investor type. Impairment is recognized through a valuation allowance for an individual tranche, to the extent that fair value is less than the carrying amount of the servicing assets for that tranche. The valuation allowance is adjusted to reflect changes in the measurement of impairment after the initial measurement of impairment. Changes in valuation allowances are reported with mortgage servicing income net of impairment on the income statement. Fair value in excess of the carrying amount of servicing assets for that stratum is not recognized.

Goodwill and Intangible Assets — Goodwill is tested annually for impairment or more frequently should potential triggering events be identified that may indicate potential impairment. At December 31, 2020, Horizon had core deposit intangibles of $23.0 million subject to amortization and $151.2 million of goodwill, which is not subject to amortization. Goodwill arising from business combinations represents the value attributable to unidentifiable intangible assets in the business acquired. Horizon’s goodwill relates to the value inherent in the banking industry and that value is dependent upon the ability of Horizon to provide quality, cost effective banking services in a competitive marketplace. The goodwill value is supported by revenue that is in part driven by the volume of business transacted. If the implied fair value of goodwill is lower than its carrying amount, goodwill impairment is indicated and goodwill is written down to its implied fair value. A large majority of the goodwill relates to the acquisitions of Heartland, Summit, Peoples, Kosciusko, LaPorte, Lafayette, Wolverine and Salin.

Securities Purchased Under Agreements to Resell and Securities Sold Under Agreements to Repurchase — The Company purchases certain securities, generally U.S. government–sponsored entity and agency securities, under agreements to resell. The amounts advanced under these agreements represent short–term secured loans and are reflected as assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. We also sell certain securities under agreements to repurchase. These agreements are treated as collateralized financing transactions. These secured borrowings are reflected as liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and are recorded at the amount of cash received in connection with the transaction. Short–term securities sold under agreements to repurchase generally mature within one to four days from the transaction date. Securities, generally U.S. government and federal agency securities, pledged as collateral under these financing arrangements can be repledged by the secured party. Additional collateral may be required based on the fair value of the underlying securities.

Income Taxes —The Company accounts for income taxes in accordance with income tax accounting guidance (ASC 740, Income Taxes). The income tax accounting guidance results in two components of income tax expense: current and deferred. Current income tax expense reflects taxes to be paid or refunded for the current period by applying the provisions of the enacted tax law to the taxable income or excess of deductions over revenues. The Company determines deferred income taxes using the liability (or balance sheet) method. Under this method, the net deferred tax asset or liability is based on the tax effects of the differences between the book and tax bases of assets and liabilities, and enacted changes in tax rates and laws are recognized in the period in which they occur. Deferred income tax expense results from changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities between periods. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance if, based on the weight of evidence available, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of a deferred tax asset will not be realized.

Uncertain tax positions are recognized if it is more likely than not, based on the technical merits, that the tax position will be realized or sustained upon examination. The term more likely than not means a likelihood of more than 50 percent; the terms examined and upon examination also include resolution of the related appeals or litigation processes, if any. A tax position that meets the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold is initially and subsequently measured as the largest amount of tax benefit that has a greater than 50 percent likelihood of being realized upon settlement with a taxing authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information. The determination of whether or not a tax position has met the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold considers the facts, circumstances and information available at the reporting date and is subject to management’s judgment.

Transfer of Financial Assets — The transfer of financial assets are accounted for as sales, when control over the assets has been surrendered. Control over transferred assets is deemed to be surrendered when (1)the assets have been isolated from the Company and put presumptively beyond the reach of the transferor and its creditors, even in bankruptcy or other receivership, (2)the transferee obtains the right (free of conditions that constrain it from taking advantage of that right) to pledge or exchange the transferred assets and (3)the Company does not maintain effective control over the transferred assets through an agreement to repurchase them before their maturity or the ability to unilaterally cause the holder to return specific assets.

Earnings per Common Share — Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income available to common shareholders (net income less dividend requirements for preferred stock and accretion of preferred stock discount) by the weighted–average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share reflect the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock. The following table shows computation of basic and diluted earnings per share.


	Years Ended December 31
	2020		2019		2018
Basic earnings per share
Net income	$	68,499	$	66,538	$	53,117
Weighted average common shares outstanding(1)	44,044,737		43,493,316		38,347,059
Basic earnings per share	$	1.56	$	1.53	$	1.39
Diluted earnings per share
Net income available to common shareholders	$	68,499	$	66,538	$	53,117
Weighted average common shares outstanding(1)	44,044,737		43,493,316		38,347,059
Effect of dilutive securities:
Restricted stock	41,817		23,006		36,185
Stock options	36,522		81,273		111,987
Weighted average common shares outstanding	44,123,076		43,597,595		38,495,231
Diluted earnings per share	$	1.55	$	1.53	$	1.38

effect of the three–for–two stock split on the outstanding common shares is that shareholders of record as of the close of business on May 31, 2018, the record date, received an additional half share for each share of common stock held, with shareholders receiving cash in lieu of any fractional shares. The additional shares issued in the stock split were payable and issued on June 15, 2018, and the common shares began trading on a split–adjusted basis on June 19, 2018.

On July 16, 2019, the Board of Directors of the Company authorized a stock repurchase program for up to 2,250,000 shares of Horizon’s issued and outstanding common stock, no par value. As of December 31, 2020, Horizon had repurchased a total of 373,323 shares at an average price per share of $15.86. In addition to the stock repurchase program, Horizon agreed to repurchase 1,000,000 shares at a price per share of $15.19 from an individual shareholder on March 6, 2020.

Dividend Restrictions — Horizon’s principal source of funds for dividend payments is dividends received from the Bank. Banking regulations limit the amount of dividends that may be paid without prior approval of regulatory agencies. Under these regulations, the amount of dividends that may be paid in any calendar year is limited to the current year’s net profits combined with the retained net profits of the preceding two years, subject to the capital requirements described in Note 21. At December 31, 2020, the Bank could, without prior approval, declare dividends of approximately $47.8 million to Horizon. Additionally, the Federal Reserve Board limits the amount of dividends that may be paid by Horizon to its stockholders under its capital adequacy guidelines.

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows — For purposes of reporting cash flows, cash and cash equivalents are defined to include cash and due from banks, money market investments and federal funds sold with maturities of one day or less. Horizon reports net cash flows for customer loan transactions, deposit transactions, short–term investments and borrowings.

Comprehensive Income — Comprehensive income consists of net income and other comprehensive income (loss), net of applicable income taxes. Other comprehensive income (loss) includes unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on available for sale securities, unrealized and realized gains and losses in cash flow derivative financial instruments and amortization of available for sale securities transferred to held to maturity.

Share–Based Compensation — At December 31, 2020, Horizon had share–based compensation plans, which are described more fully in Note 22. All share–based payments are to be recognized as expense, based upon their fair values, in the financial statements over the vesting period of the awards. Horizon has recorded approximately $1.3 million, $920,000, and $626,000 in compensation expense relating to vesting of stock options less estimated forfeitures for the 12–month periods ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively.

Derivative Financial Instruments — The Company occasionally enters into derivative financial instruments as part of its interest rate risk management strategies. These derivative financial instruments consist primarily of interest rate swaps. All derivative instruments are recorded on the Statements of Financial Condition, as either an asset or liability, at their fair value. The accounting for the gain or loss resulting from the change in fair value depends on the intended use of the derivative. For a derivative used to hedge changes in fair value of a recognized asset or liability, or an unrecognized firm commitment, the gain or loss on the derivative will be recognized in earnings together with the offsetting loss or gain on the hedged item. This results in an earnings impact only to the extent that the hedge is ineffective in achieving offsetting changes in fair value. If it is determined that the derivative instrument is not highly effective as a hedge, hedge accounting is discontinued and the adjustment to fair value of the derivative instrument is recorded in earnings. For a derivative used to hedge changes in cash flows associated with forecasted transactions, the gain or loss of the effective portion of the derivative will be deferred, and reported as accumulated other comprehensive income, a component of shareholders’ equity, until such time the hedged transaction affects earnings. For derivative instruments not accounted for as hedges, changes in fair value are recognized in non–interest income or non–interest expense. Deferred gains and losses from derivatives that are terminated and were in a cash flow hedge are amortized over the shorter of the original remaining term of the derivative or the remaining life of the underlying asset or liability.

Revenue Recognition — Accounting Standards Codification 606, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers” (ASC 606) provides that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The guidance enumerates five steps that entities should follow in achieving this core principle. Revenue generated from financial instruments, including loans and investment securities, are not included in the scope of ASC 606. The adoption of ASC 606 did not result in a change to the accounting of any of the Company’s revenue streams that are within the scope of the amendments. Revenue–gathering activities that are within the scope of ASC 606 and that are presented as non-interest income in the Company’s consolidated statements of income include:

•Service charges and fees on deposit accounts – these include general service fees charged for deposit account maintenance and activity and transaction-based fees charged for certain services, such as debit card, wire transfer and overdraft activities. Revenue is recognized when the performance obligation is completed, which is generally after a transaction is completed or monthly for account maintenance services.

Segments — Horizon has one principal business segment, commercial banking. While our chief decision makers monitor the revenue streams of various products and services, the identifiable segments' operations are managed and financial performance is evaluated on a company–wide basis. Accordingly, all of the Company's financial service operations are considered to be aggregated in one reportable operating segment.

On January 1, 2020, the Company adopted ASU No. 2016–13, “Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments” (“CECL”). The measurement of expected credit losses under CECL methodology is applicable to financial assets measured at amortized cost, including loan receivables and held to maturity securities. It also applies to off–balance sheet (“OBS”) credit exposures not accounted for as insurance (loan commitments, standby letters of credit, financial guarantees, and other similar agreements). In addition ASC 326 made changes to the accounting for available for sale debt securities. One such change is to require credit losses to be presented as an allowance, rather than as a write–down, on available for sale debt securities management does not intend to sell or believe that it is not more likely than not they will be required to sell.

The Company adopted ASC 326 using the modified retrospective method for all financial assets measured at amortized cost and OBS credit exposures. Results for reporting periods beginning after December 31, 2019, are presented under ASC 326 while prior period amounts continue to be reported in accordance with previously applicable GAAP. The Company recorded a net decrease to retained earnings of $15.6 million as of January 1, 2020 for the cumulative effect of adopting ASC 326.

The Company adopted ASC 326 using the prospective transition approach for financial assets purchased with credit deterioration (“PCD”), previously classified as purchased credit impaired (“PCI”) and accounted for under ASC 310–30. In accordance with the standard, management did not reassess whether PCI assets met the criteria of PCD assets as of the date of adoption. On January 1, 2020, the amortized cost basis of the PCD assets was adjusted to reflect the addition of $2.8 million of allowance for credit losses (“ACL”) on loans.

On January 1, 2020, the Company adopted the provision of ASU No. 2017–04, which eliminates Step 2 from the goodwill impairment test. Under Step 2, an entity had to perform procedures to determine the fair value at the impairment testing date of its assets and liabilities (including unrecognized assets and liabilities) following the procedure that would be required in determining the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination. Instead, under the amendments in this ASU, an entity should perform its annual, or interim, goodwill impairment test by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount. An entity should recognize an impairment charge for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit's fair value; however, the loss recognized should not exceed the total amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. Additionally, an entity should consider income tax effects from any tax deductible goodwill on the carrying amount of the reporting unit when measuring the goodwill impairment loss, if applicable. An entity still has the option to perform the qualitative assessment for a reporting unit to determine if the quantitative impairment test is necessary. This ASU eliminates the requirements for any reporting unit with a zero or negative carrying amount to perform a qualitative test. The adoption of this new guidance did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

On January 1, 2020, the Company adopted the provision of ASU 2018–13, which modifies the disclosure requirements on fair value measurements. The amendment removes certain disclosures required by Topic 820 related to transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; the policy for timing of transfers between levels; and the valuation processes for Level 3 fair value measurements. The update also adds certain disclosure requirements related to changes in unrealized gains and losses for the period included in other comprehensive income for recurring Level 3 fair value measurements held at the end of the reporting period and the range and weighted average of significant unobservable inputs used to develop Level 3 fair value measurements. For certain unobservable inputs, the Company may disclose other quantitative information in lieu of the weighted average if we determine that other quantitative information would be a more reasonable and rational method to reflect the distribution of unobservable inputs used to develop Level 3 fair value measurements. The adoption of this new guidance did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

The FASB has issued ASU 2019–12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes. The new guidance is intended to simplify the accounting for income taxes by removing certain exceptions to the general principles of ASC 740. The guidance also improves consistent application by clarifying and amending existing guidance from ASC 740. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020, including interim periods therein and is to be applied on a retrospective, modified retrospective or prospective approach, depending on the specific amendment. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of adopting the new guidance on the consolidated financial statements, but it is not expected to have a material impact.

The FASB has issued ASU 2020–04, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting, which provides temporary, optional guidance to ease the potential burden in accounting for, or recognizing the effects of, the transition away from the LIBOR or other interbank offered rate on financial reporting. To help with the transition to new reference rates, the ASU provides optional expedients and exceptions for applying GAAP to affected contract modifications and hedge accounting relationships. The main provisions include:

The guidance is applicable only to contracts or hedge accounting relationships that reference LIBOR or another reference rate expected to be discontinued. Because the guidance is meant to help entities through the transition period, it will be in effect for a limited time and will not apply to contract modifications made and hedging relationships entered into or evaluated after December 31, 2022, except for hedging relationships existing as of December 31, 2022, for which an entity has elected certain optional expedients that are retained through the end of the hedging relationship. The amendments in this ASU are effective March 12, 2020 through December 31, 2022.

ASU 2020–04 permits relief solely for reference rate reform actions and permits different elections over the effective date for legacy and new activity. Accordingly, the Company is evaluating and reassessing the elections on a quarterly basis. For current elections in effect regarding the assertion of the probability of forecasted transactions, the Company elects the expedient to assert the probability of the hedged interest payments and receipts regardless of any expected modification in terms related to reference rate reform.