10-Q 1 form10q_063005.htm FORM 10Q 063005 Form 10Q 063005


UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549


FORM 10-Q


x 
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
 
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended June 30, 2005

 
Commission file number 000-18546


BRIDGE BANCORP, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

NEW YORK
11-2934195
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
(IRS Employer Identification Number)
   
2200 MONTAUK HIGHWAY, BRIDGEHAMPTON, NEW YORK
11932
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (631) 537-1000

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports) and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes [X] No [ ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 12b-2). Yes [X] No [ ]

There were 6,245,764 shares of common stock outstanding as of August 4, 2005.





BRIDGE BANCORP, INC.

PART I -
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
   
Item 1.
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
Item 2.
   
Item 3.
   
Item 4.
   
PART II -
OTHER INFORMATION
   
Item 1.
   
Item 2.
   
Item 3.
   
Item 4.
   
Item 5.
   
Item 6.
   
Signatures
 
   
Exhibit 31.1
Exhibit 31.2
Exhibit 32.1






BRIDGE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
         
Consolidated Statements of Condition (unaudited)
         
(In thousands, except share and per share amounts)
 
June 30,
 
December 31,
 
   
2005
 
2004
 
ASSETS
             
Cash and due from banks
 
$
14,902
 
$
8,744
 
Interest earning deposits with banks
   
190
   
118
 
Federal funds sold
   
31,200
   
-
 
Total cash and cash equivalents
   
46,292
   
8,862
 
               
Securities available for sale
   
182,551
   
202,042
 
Securities, restricted
   
2,169
   
1,979
 
Securities held to maturity (fair value of $5,937 and $21,131, respectively)
   
5,951
   
21,213
 
Total securities, net
   
190,671
   
225,234
 
               
Loans
   
302,838
   
296,134
 
Less: Allowance for loan losses
   
(2,410
)
 
(2,188
)
Loans, net
   
300,428
   
293,946
 
               
Banking premises and equipment, net
   
14,211
   
13,817
 
Accrued interest receivable
   
2,379
   
2,469
 
Other assets
   
3,340
   
2,872
 
Total Assets
 
$
557,321
 
$
547,200
 
               
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
             
Demand deposits
 
$
194,402
 
$
158,366
 
Savings, N.O.W. and money market deposits
   
253,861
   
242,814
 
Certificates of deposit of $100,000 or more
   
30,273
   
35,306
 
Other time deposits
   
27,459
   
32,825
 
Total deposits
   
505,995
   
469,311
 
               
Overnight borrowings
   
-
   
26,700
 
Accrued interest on depositors’ accounts
   
271
   
273
 
Other liabilities and accrued expenses
   
3,314
   
3,703
 
Total Liabilities
   
509,580
   
499,987
 
               
Stockholders’ equity:
             
Common stock, par value $.01 per share:
             
Authorized: 20,000,000 shares; 6,386,306 issued; 6,246,174
             
and 6,254,489 shares outstanding at June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004, respectively
   
64
   
64
 
Surplus
   
21,563
   
21,462
 
Undivided profits
   
29,612
   
27,856
 
Less: Treasury Stock at cost, 140,132 and 131,817 shares at June 30, 2005 and
December 31, 2004, respectively
   
(2,925
)
 
(2,330
)
Unearned stock awards
   
(156
)
 
(121
)
     
48,158
   
46,931
 
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):
             
Net unrealized (loss)/gain on securities, net of taxes of $199 and $267 at June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004, respectively
   
(296
)
 
403
 
Net minimum pension liability, net of taxes of $81 at June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004
   
(121
)
 
(121
)
Total Stockholders’ Equity
   
47,741
   
47,213
 
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
 
$
557,321
 
$
547,200
 
See accompanying notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements



BRIDGE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
                 
Consolidated Statements of Income (unaudited)
                 
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
                 
   
For the three months ended June 30,
 
For the six months ended June 30,
 
   
2005
 
2004
 
2005
 
2004
 
Interest income:
                         
    Loans
 
$
5,111
 
$
4,776
 
$
9,992
 
$
9,389
 
    Mortgage-backed securities
   
1,016
   
940
   
2,089
   
1,828
 
    State and municipal obligations
   
459
   
395
   
897
   
1,040
 
    U.S. Treasury and government agency securities
   
322
   
517
   
821
   
783
 
    Federal funds sold
   
71
   
18
   
76
   
42
 
    Other securities
   
24
   
5
   
40
   
12
 
    Deposits with banks
   
1
   
-
   
1
   
-
 
Total interest income
   
7,004
   
6,651
   
13,916
   
13,094
 
                           
Interest expense:
                         
Savings, N.O.W. and money market deposits
   
736
   
308
   
1,264
   
602
 
Certificates of deposit of $100,000 or more
   
160
   
121
   
308
   
240
 
Other time deposits
   
112
   
111
   
219
   
228
 
Federal funds purchased
   
2
   
15
   
22
   
24
 
Other borrowed money
   
23
   
8
   
136
   
8
 
Total interest expense
   
1,033
   
563
   
1,949
   
1,102
 
                           
Net interest income
   
5,971
   
6,088
   
11,967
   
11,992
 
Provision for loan losses
   
150
   
50
   
150
   
50
 
                           
Net interest income after provision for loan losses
   
5,821
   
6,038
   
11,817
   
11,942
 
 
                         
Other income:
                         
    Service charges on deposit accounts
   
593
   
657
   
1,144
   
1,239
 
Net securities gains
   
52
   
5
   
115
   
626
 
Fees for other customer services
   
358
   
313
   
581
   
566
 
Title fee income
   
295
   
213
   
455
   
325
 
Other operating income
   
41
   
27
   
65
   
50
 
Total other income
   
1,339
   
1,215
   
2,360
   
2,806
 
                           
Other expenses:
                         
    Salaries and employee benefits
   
2,092
   
1,782
   
4,183
   
3,697
 
Net occupancy expense
   
286
   
310
   
627
   
641
 
Furniture and fixture expense
   
251
   
242
   
499
   
485
 
Other operating expenses
   
1,016
   
962
   
1,904
   
1,876
 
Total other expenses
   
3,645
   
3,296
   
7,213
   
6,699
 
                           
Income before provision for income taxes
   
3,515
   
3,957
   
6,964
   
8,049
 
Provision for income taxes
   
1,190
   
1,415
   
2,389
   
2,882
 
Net income
 
$
2,325
 
$
2,542
 
$
4,575
   
5,167
 
Basic earnings per share
 
$
0.37
 
$
0.41
 
$
0.73
 
$
0.83
 
Diluted earnings per share
 
$
0.37
 
$
0.40
 
$
0.73
 
$
0.82
 
Comprehensive income (loss)
 
$
3,548
 
$
(1,351
)
$
3,876
 
$
1,979
 


See accompanying notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.




BRIDGE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
                                 
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’Equity (unaudited)
                                 
(In thousands, except share and per share amounts)
                                 
                               
Accumulated
     
   
Common
 
Stock
                 
Unearned
 
Other
     
   
Shares
         
Comprehensive
 
Undivided
 
Treasury
 
Stock
 
Comprehensive
     
   
Outstanding
 
Amount
 
Surplus
 
Income
 
Profits
 
Stock
 
Awards
 
Income (Loss)
 
Total
 
Balance at December 31, 2004
   
6,254,489
 
$
64
 
$
21,462
       
$
27,856
 
$
(2,330
)
$
(121
)
$
282
 
$
47,213
 
Net income
                   
$
4,575
   
4,575
                     
4,575
 
Stock awards vested
   
6,155
         
36
               
28
   
55
         
119
 
Stock awards granted
               
52
               
38
   
(90
)
       
-
 
Exercise of stock options
   
15,000
         
13
               
183
               
196
 
Treasury stock repurchases
   
(29,470
)
                         
(844
)
             
(844
)
Cash dividends declared, $0.45 per share
                           
(2,819
)
                   
(2,819
)
Other comprehensive income, net of tax
                                                       
Unrealized losses in securities available for sale,
net of tax
                     
(699
)
                   
(699
)
 
(699
)
Comprehensive income
                   
$
3,876
                               
                                                         
Balance at June 30, 2005
   
6,246,174
 
$
64
 
$
21,563
       
$
29,612
 
$
(2,925
)
$
(156
)
$
(417
)
$
47,741
 

See accompanying notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.



BRIDGE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
         
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (unaudited)
         
(In thousands)
         
           
Six months ended June 30,
 
2005
 
2004
 
Operating activities:
             
Net Income
 
$
4,575
 
$
5,167
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
             
provided by operating activities:
             
Provision for loan losses
   
150
   
50
 
Depreciation and amortization
   
439
   
475
 
Amortization and accretion, net
   
424
   
724
 
Earned or allocated expense of restricted stock awards
   
55
   
39
 
Net securities gains
   
(115
)
 
(626
)
Decrease (increase) in accrued interest receivable
   
90
   
(123
)
(Increase) decrease in other assets
   
(140
)
 
1,326
 
Decrease in accrued and other liabilities
   
(316
)
 
(329
)
Net cash provided by operating activities
   
5,162
   
6,703
 
               
Investing activities:
             
Purchases of securities available for sale
   
(15,913
)
 
(88,542
)
Purchases of securities held to maturity
   
(5,057
)
 
(8,656
)
Proceeds from sales of securities available for sale
   
21,172
   
38,758
 
Proceeds from maturing securities available for sale
   
2,670
   
3,175
 
Proceeds from maturing securities held to maturity
   
20,319
   
11,436
 
Proceeds from principal payments on mortgage-backed securities
   
9,897
   
12,741
 
Net increase in loans
   
(6,632
)
 
(14,766
)
Purchases of banking premises and equipment, net of disposals
   
(833
)
 
(2,640
)
Net cash provided by (used by) investing activities
   
25,623
   
(48,494
)
               
Financing activities:
             
Net increase in deposits
   
36,684
   
51,112
 
Decrease in other borrowings
   
(26,700
)
 
(2,800
)
Net proceeds from exercise of stock options
             
issued pursuant to equity incentive plan
   
196
   
172
 
Purchases of Treasury Stock
   
(844
)
 
(122
)
Cash dividends paid
   
(2,691
)
 
(3,622
)
Net cash provided by financing activities
   
6,645
   
44,740
 
               
Increase in cash and cash equivalents
   
37,430
   
2,949
 
Cash and cash equivalents beginning of period
   
8,862
   
13,039
 
Cash and cash equivalents end of period
 
$
46,292
 
$
15,988
 
               
Supplemental Information-Cash Flows:
             
Cash paid for:
             
Interest
 
$
1,951
 
$
1,904
 
Income taxes
 
$
2,271
 
$
3,176
 
Noncash investing and financing activities:
             
Dividends declared and unpaid
 
$
1,441
 
$
1,046
 

See accompanying notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.



BRIDGE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
CONDENSED NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(unaudited)

1. Basis of Presentation

Bridge Bancorp, Inc. (the “Company”) is incorporated under the laws of the State of New York as a single bank holding company. The Company’s business currently consists of the operations of its wholly-owned subsidiary, The Bridgehampton National Bank (the “Bank”). The Bank’s operations include its real estate investment trust subsidiary, Bridgehampton Community, Inc. (“BCI”) and a financial subsidiary, the now dissolved Bridgehampton Abstract Holding LLC, which had a 100% ownership in an investment in Bridge Abstract LLC (“Bridge Abstract”). Effective April 1, 2004, Bridgehampton Abstract Holding LLC ownership interest in Bridge Abstract increased to 100% from 51% ownership. Subsequent to December 31, 2004, Bridgehampton Abstract Holding LLC was dissolved.

The accompanying Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements, which include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiary, the Bank, have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. The Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements included herein reflect all normal recurring adjustments that are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair presentation of the results for the interim periods presented. In preparing the interim financial statements, management has made 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 expense during the reported periods. Such estimates are subject to change in the future as additional information becomes available or previously existing circumstances are modified. Actual future results could differ significantly from those estimates. The annualized results of operations for the six months ended June 30, 2005 are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations that may be expected for the entire fiscal year. Certain information and note disclosures normally included in the financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles have been condensed or omitted pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements should be read in conjunction with the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements and notes thereto included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004.

2. Earnings Per Share

Diluted earnings per share, which reflect the potential dilution that could occur if outstanding stock options were exercised and dilutive stock awards were fully vested and resulted in the issuance of common stock that then shared in the earnings of the Company, is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares and common stock equivalents.

Computation of Per Share Income
 
Three months ended
 
Six months ended
(in thousands, except per share data)
 
June 30,
 
June 30,
 
June 30,
 
June 30,
   
2005
 
2004
 
2005
 
2004
                 
Net Income
 
$
2,325
 
$
2,542
 
$
4,575
 
$
5,167
                         
Common Equivalent Shares:
                       
                         
Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding
   
6,254
   
6,251
   
6,256
   
6,246
Weighted Average Common Equivalent Shares
   
53
   
80
   
52
   
84
Weighted Average Common and Common Equivalent Shares
   
6,307
   
6,331
   
6,308
   
6,330
Basic earnings per share
 
$
0.37
 
$
0.41
 
$
0.73
 
$
0.83
Diluted earnings per share
 
$
0.37
 
$
0.40
 
$
0.73
 
$
0.82

3. Repurchased Stock

For the six months ended June 30, 2005, the Company repurchased 29,470 shares as compared to 4,500 shares repurchased during the six-month period ended June 30, 2004. Repurchased shares are held in the Company’s treasury account, and may be utilized for general corporate purposes.


4. Stock Based Compensation Plans

Employee compensation expense under stock options is reported using the intrinsic value method. No stock based compensation cost is reflected in net income, as all the options granted had an exercise price equal to the market price of the underlying common stock at date of grant. The following table illustrates the effect on net income and earnings per share if expense was measured using the fair value recognition provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (SFAS) No. 123 (revised 2004), “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation.” We have used the Black-Scholes option pricing model to estimate the grant date fair value of our option grants.

       
Three months ended,
 
Six months ended,
(In thousands, except
     
June 30,
 
June 30,
 
June 30,
 
June 30,
per share data)
     
2005
 
2004
 
2005
 
2004
Net Income:
   
As Reported:
 
$
2,325
 
$
2,542
 
$
4,575
 
$
5,167
Pro Forma:
       
$
2,325
 
$
2,496
 
$
4,560
 
$
5,071
Basic EPS:
   
As Reported:
 
$
0.37
 
$
0.41
 
$
0.73
 
$
0.83
Pro Forma:
       
$
0.37
 
$
0.40
 
$
0.73
 
$
0.81
Diluted EPS:
   
As Reported:
 
$
0.37
 
$
0.40
 
$
0.73
 
$
0.82
Pro Forma:
       
$
0.37
 
$
0.40
 
$
0.73
 
$
0.81

5. Securities

A summary of the amortized cost and estimated fair value of securities is as follows:

   
June 30, 2005
 
December 31, 2004
(In thousands)
     
Estimated
     
Estimated
   
Amortized
 
Fair
 
Amortized
 
Fair
   
Cost
 
Value
 
Cost
 
Value
Available for sale:
                       
U.S. Treasury and government agency securities
 
$
38,875
 
$
38,714
 
$
53,736
 
$
54,039
State and municipal obligations
   
45,113
   
45,773
   
40,027
   
41,044
Mortgage-backed securities
   
99,058
   
98,064
   
107,609
   
106,959
Total available for sale
   
183,046
   
182,551
   
201,372
   
202,042
Restricted:
                       
Federal Reserve Bank Stock
   
36
   
36
   
36
   
36
Federal Home Loan Bank Stock
   
2,133
   
2,133
   
1,943
   
1,943
Total restricted
   
2,169
   
2,169
   
1,979
   
1,979
Held to maturity:
                       
State and municipal obligations
   
5,951
   
5,937
   
21,213
   
21,131
Total held to maturity
   
5,951
   
5,937
   
21,213
   
21,131
Total debt and equity securities
 
$
191,166
 
$
190,657
 
$
224,564
 
$
225,152

Securities having a fair value of approximately $161,706,000 and $110,479,000 at June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004, respectively, were pledged to secure public deposits and Federal Home Loan Bank overnight borrowings. The Company did not hold any trading securities during the six months ended June 30, 2005 or the year ended December 31, 2004.


6. Loans

The following table sets forth the major classifications of loans:

   
June 30, 2005
 
December 31, 2004
 
(In thousands)
         
           
Real estate mortgage loans
 
$
236,135
 
$
236,812
 
Commercial, financial, and agricultural loans
   
37,905
   
34,342
 
Installment/consumer loans
   
7,162
   
6,685
 
Real estate construction loans
   
21,833
   
18,452
 
Total loans
   
303,035
   
296,291
 
Unearned income
   
(197
)
 
(157
)
     
302,838
   
296,134
 
Allowance for loan losses
   
(2,410
)
 
(2,188
)
Net loans
 
$
300,428
 
$
293,946
 

The principal business of the Bank is lending, primarily in commercial mortgages, home equity loans, residential mortgages, commercial loans, construction loans, and consumer loans. The Bank considers its primary lending area to be eastern Long Island in Suffolk County, New York, and a substantial portion of the Bank’s loans are secured by real estate in this area. Accordingly, the ultimate collectibility of such a loan portfolio is susceptible to changes in market and economic conditions in this region.

Nonaccrual loans at June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004 were $456,000 and $1,695,000, respectively. Subsequent to December 31, 2004, three loans with a total principal balance of $1,288,000 were removed from the nonaccrual list, with two loans returning to accrual status and one loan being repaid. There were no loans 90 days or more past due that were still accruing, or any restructured loans at June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004.

As of June 30, 2005, the Company had an impaired loan as defined by SFAS No. 114, of approximately $95,000 with a specific reserve of $75,000. At December 31, 2004, the Company had no impaired loans, as defined by SFAS No. 114. For a loan to be considered impaired, management reviews whether it is probable that the Company will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Additionally management applies its normal loan review procedures in making these judgements.

7. Allowance for Loan Losses

Management monitors its entire loan portfolio on a regular basis, with consideration given to detailed analyses of classified loans, repayment patterns, current delinquencies, probable incurred losses, past loss experience, current economic conditions, and various types of concentrations of credit. Additions to the allowance are charged to expense and realized losses, net of recoveries, are charged to the allowance. Based on the determination of management and the Classification Committee, the overall level of reserves is periodically adjusted to account for the inherent and specific risks within the entire portfolio. Based on the Classification Committee’s review of the classified loans and the overall reserve levels as they relate to the entire loan portfolio at June 30, 2005, we believe the allowance for loan losses is adequate. The following table sets forth changes in the allowance for loan losses.

(In thousands)
 
For the Six Months Ended
 
For the Year Ended
 
   
June 30, 2005
 
June 30, 2004
 
December 31, 2004
 
Beginning balance
 
$
2,188
 
$
2,144
 
$
2,144
 
Provision for loan loss
   
150
   
50
   
300
 
Net recoveries/(charge-offs)
   
72
   
(22
)
 
(256
)
Ending balance
 
$
2,410
 
$
2,172
 
$
2,188
 

8. Employee Benefits

The Bank maintains a noncontributory pension plan through the New York State Bankers Association Retirement System covering all eligible employees.


The Bridgehampton National Bank Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (“SERP”) provides benefits to certain employees, as recommended by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors and approved by the full Board of Directors, whose benefits under the Pension Plan are limited by the applicable provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. The benefit under the SERP is equal to the additional amount the employee would be entitled to under the Pension Plan in the absence of such Internal Revenue Code limitations. The assets of the SERP are held in a rabbi trust to maintain the tax-deferred status for the individuals in the plan. As a result, the assets of the trust are reflected on the Consolidated Statements of Condition of the Company.

The Company did not contribute to the pension plan in the six months ended June 30, 2005. Contributions to the rabbi trust were approximately $350,000 for the six months of 2005. The Company will continue to assess if any additional contributions will be made to the pension plan or the rabbi trust through the end of the year.

The Company’s funding policy with respect to its benefit plans is to contribute at least the minimum amounts required by applicable laws and regulations.


(In thousands)
 
At June 30,
 
   
Pension Benefits
 
SERP Benefits
 
Components of net periodic benefit cost
 
2005
 
2004
 
2005
 
2004
 
Service cost
 
$
158
 
$
138
 
$
43
 
$
31
 
Interest cost
   
111
   
99
   
35
   
26
 
Expected return on plan assets
   
(148
)
 
(104
)
 
-
   
-
 
Amortization of net loss
   
12
   
14
   
11
   
3
 
Amortization of unrecognized prior service cost
   
4
   
4
   
-
   
-
 
Amortization of unrecognized transition (asset) obligation
   
(4
)
 
(4
)
 
(14
)
 
(14
)
Net periodic benefit cost
 
$
133
 
$
147
 
$
75
 
$
46
 



Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Private Securities Litigation Reform Act Safe Harbor Statement

This report may contain statements relating to the future results of the Company (including certain projections and business trends) that are considered “forward-looking statements” as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the “PSLRA”). Such forward-looking statements, in addition to historical information, which involve risk and uncertainties, are based on the beliefs, assumptions and expectations of management of the Company. Words such as “expects,”“believes,”“should,”“plans,”“anticipates,”“will,”“potential,”“could,”“intend,”“may,”“outlook,”“predict,”“project,”“would,”“estimates,”“assumes,”“likely,” and variations of such similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Examples of forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, possible or assumed estimates with respect to the financial condition, expected or anticipated revenue, and results of operations and business of the Company, including earnings growth; revenue growth in retail banking, lending and other areas; origination volume in the Company’s consumer, commercial and other lending businesses; current and future capital management programs; non-interest income levels, including fees from the abstract subsidiary and banking services as well as product sales; tangible capital generation; market share; expense levels; and other business operations and strategies. For this presentation, the Company claims the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the PSLRA.

Factors that could cause future results to vary from current management expectations include, but are not limited to, changing economic conditions; legislative and regulatory changes; monetary and fiscal policies of the federal government; changes in tax policies; rates and regulations of federal, state and local tax authorities; changes in interest rates; deposit flows; the cost of funds; demand for loan products; demand for financial services; competition; changes in the quality and composition of the Bank’s loan and investment portfolios; changes in management’s business strategies; changes in accounting principles, policies or guidelines; changes in real estate values and other factors discussed elsewhere in this report, and in other reports filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this report, and the Company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those projected in the forward-looking statements.

Overview

Bridge Bancorp, Inc. (“the Company”), a New York corporation, is a single bank holding company formed in 1989. On a parent-only basis, the Company has had minimal results of operations. In the event the Company subsequently expands its current operations, it will be dependent on dividends from its wholly owned subsidiary, The Bridgehampton National Bank (“the Bank”), its own earnings, additional capital raised, and borrowings as sources of funds. The information in this report reflects principally the financial condition and results of operations of the Bank. The Bank’s results of operations are primarily dependent on its net interest income, which is mainly the difference between interest income on loans and investments and interest expense on deposits and borrowings. The Bank also generates other income, such as fee income on deposit accounts and merchant credit and debit card processing programs, income from its title abstract subsidiary, and net gains on sales of securities and loans. The level of its other expenses, such as salaries and benefits, occupancy and equipment costs, other general and administrative expenses, expenses from its title insurance subsidiary, and income tax expense, further affects the Bank’s net income. This discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements, the notes thereto, and other financial information included in the Company’s Annual Report and Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, and this filing. Certain reclassifications have been made to prior year amounts, and the related discussion and analysis, to conform to the current year presentation.

Net income for the three months ended June 30, 2005 was $2,325,000, decreasing $217,000 from earnings of $2,542,000 for the same period last year. Diluted earnings per share for the second quarter 2005 were $0.37, a decrease of $0.03, or 7.5% from $0.40 per diluted share for the second quarter of 2004. Net income for the six-month period ended June 30, 2005 was $4,575,000, decreasing 11.5% from $5,167,000 for the first six months of 2004. Diluted earnings per share for the six-month period ended June 30, 2005 were $0.73, a decrease of $0.09, or 11.0% from $0.82 per diluted share for the first six months of 2004.

Performance ratios for the first six-month period of 2005 include returns on average equity and average assets of 19.29% and 1.68%, respectively. Maintaining operating efficiency continues to be a priority with an efficiency ratio of


48.8% for the second quarter. With a Tier 1 Capital to Average Assets ratio of 8.6%, the Company’s capital levels remain strong, and the Company is well positioned for future growth. Stockholders’ equity totaled $47,741,000 at June 30, 2005 as compared to $42,940,000 at June 30, 2004 and $47,213,000 at December 31, 2004.

The Company gave careful consideration to containing asset growth, as the flatness of the treasury yield curve made longer duration investments and loans less attractive. The balance sheet is managed closely with attention to both interest rate and credit risks. During the second quarter, the Federal Reserve Open Market Committee continued raising short term interest rates, while long term rates remained low. Consistent with the first quarter of 2005, the Bank maintained a net interest margin of 4.9% for the three month period ended June 30, 2005. Net interest income was primarily flat for the first six months of 2005 compared to the same period of 2004. As expected, earnings reflect compression of our net interest margin to 4.9% from 5.0% over the same period in the prior year, as the liability side of the balance sheet repriced upward faster than the asset side.

To control asset growth, the Company reduced volatile deposits this year to help moderate the net interest margin. Average demand deposit growth remained strong at 10.5% or $16.3 million, while overall average deposits increased only 1.8 % or $8.4 million, when comparing the six month periods of 2005 and 2004. Throughout the period of declining interest rates from early 2001 through mid 2004, the Bank proactively reduced rates on deposit accounts. Last quarter the Company reported that it responded to competitive pressures by raising interest rates on interest bearing deposits with the objective of protecting existing customer relationships in the face of increasing competition for deposits in its market area. Although this strategy resulted in a higher cost of funds, customer retention remained strong. Average cost of interest bearing liabilities increased to 1.2% for the first six months of 2005, from 0.7% for the same period of 2004.

Total assets increased 1.9% to $557,321,000 at June 30, 2005, approximately $10,121,000 more than total assets at December 31, 2004. Total deposits grew 7.8%, or $36,684,000 from December 31, 2004 to $505,995,000, with growth in demand deposits, savings, N.O.W., and money market deposits of 11.7%. Demand deposits grew 11.6% at June 30, 2005 over the same date for the prior year and 22.8% from December 31, 2004. Demand deposits represented 38.4% of total deposits at June 30, 2005.

Total other expenses increased during the six-month period ended June 30, 2005 by $514,000 or 7.7% over the same period last year. Total other expenses increased during the three-month period ended June 30, 2005 by $349,000 or 10.6% over the same period last year. Acknowledging potential positive effects of future deposit growth on net interest income, the Company continued to invest in infrastructure that supports core deposit growth without reaching out to more expensive short term wholesale funding. It is anticipated that the Westhampton Beach branch, currently under construction, will open by year end, and the Company is also in the process of upgrading branch locations with new facilities in existing markets. In late July 2005, the Company received approval on its plans for a new facility in the Village of Southampton. The property for expanded facilities in East Hampton Village is still in the municipal approval process. Concurrently the Bank is seeking expansion opportunities in new markets that allow future growth of its business model. During the second quarter of 2005 the Bank was unable to close on the contract to purchase property in Center Moriches due to the unsuccessful attempt to get a zoning change on the property, however the Bank actively continues to explore other options. The primary component of increases in other expenses was salary and benefit expense. Several key senior and middle management positions, both front line and back office, were filled since June 30, 2004 as the Company positioned itself for future growth. Staff increases and enhancements strive to improve customer service and business opportunities through the development of a more experienced, customer oriented staff. The Company continues to evaluate and implement strategies that allow further diversification of its revenue streams.

Total loans grew 5.2% year over year for the six-month period, primarily attributable to growth in real estate construction and real estate mortgage loans. Average loans grew 5.4% or $15.4 million for the six-month period year over year, a slower pace than for the comparable periods in the prior two years. Loan quality remains strong. At the same time, the ratio of the allowance for loan losses to total loans at June 30, 2005 increased to 0.80% from 0.75% at the same date last year, benefiting from net recoveries for the 2005 six-month period as well as providing for a provision for loan losses of $150,000.


Critical Accounting Policies

Management of the Company evaluates those accounting estimates that are judged to be critical - those most important to the portrayal of the Company’s financial condition and results, and that require management’s most difficult, subjective and complex judgments. Management considers the accounting policy on loans and the related allowance for loan losses to be the most critical. The judgments made regarding the allowance for loan losses can have a material effect on the results of operations of the Company. Management believes the accounting policy on loans and the related allowance for loan losses is the most critical and requires complex management judgment as discussed below. Further discussion of the application of this critical accounting policy can be found under the heading “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2004.

The allowance for loan losses is established and maintained through a provision for loan losses based on probable incurred losses inherent in the Bank’s loan portfolio. Management evaluates the adequacy of the allowance on a quarterly basis. The allowance is comprised of both individual valuation allowances and loan pool valuation allowances. If the allowance for loan losses is not sufficient to cover actual loan losses, the Company’s earnings could decrease.

The Bank monitors its entire loan portfolio on a regular basis, with consideration given to detailed analysis of classified loans, repayment patterns, probable incurred losses, past loss experience, current economic conditions, and various types of concentrations of credit. Additions to the allowance are charged to expense and realized losses, net of recoveries, are charged to the allowance.

Individual valuation allowances are established in connection with specific loan reviews and the asset classification process including the procedures for impairment testing under Statement of Accounting Standard (“SFAS”) No. 114, “Accounting by Creditors for Impairment of a Loan, an Amendment of FASB Statements No. 5 and 15,” and SFAS No. 118, “Accounting by Creditors for Impairment of a Loan - Income Recognition and Disclosures, an Amendment of SFAS No. 114.” Such valuation, which includes a review of loans for which full collectibility in accordance with contractual terms is not reasonably assured, considers the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral less the costs to sell, if any, or the present value of expected future cash flows, or the loan’s observable market value. Any shortfall that exists from this analysis results in a specific allowance for the loan. Pursuant to our policy, loan losses must be charged-off in the period the loans, or portions thereof, are deemed uncollectible. Assumptions and judgments by management, in conjunction with outside sources, are used to determine whether full collectibility of a loan is not reasonably assured. These assumptions and judgments also are used to determine the estimates of the fair value of the underlying collateral or the present value of expected future cash flows or the loan’s observable market value. Individual valuation allowances could differ materially as a result of changes in these assumptions and judgments. Individual loan analyses are periodically performed on specific loans considered impaired. The results of the individual valuation allowances are aggregated and included in the overall allowance for loan losses.

Loan pool valuation allowances represent loss allowances that have been established to recognize the inherent risks associated with our lending activities, but which, unlike individual allowances, have not been allocated to particular problem assets. Pool evaluations are broken down as follows: first, loans with homogenous characteristics are pooled by loan type and include home equity loans, residential mortgages, land loans and consumer loans. Then all remaining loans are segregated into pools based upon the risk rating of each credit. Key factors in determining a credit’s risk rating include management’s evaluation of: cash flow, collateral, guarantor support, financial disclosures, industry trends and management. The determination of the adequacy of the valuation allowance is a process that takes into consideration a variety of factors. The Bank has developed a range of valuation allowances necessary to adequately provide for probable incurred losses inherent in each pool of loans. We consider our own charge-off history along with the growth in the portfolio as well as the Bank’s credit administration and asset management philosophies and procedures when determining the allowances for each pool. In addition, we evaluate and consider the impact that existing and projected economic and market conditions may have on the portfolio as well as known and inherent risks in the portfolio. Finally, we evaluate and consider the allowance ratios and coverage percentages of both peer group and regulatory agency data. These evaluations are inherently subjective because, even though they are based on objective data, it is management’s interpretation of that data that determines the amount of the appropriate allowance. If the evaluations prove to be incorrect, the allowance for loan losses may not be sufficient to cover losses inherent in the loan portfolio, resulting in additions to the allowance for loan losses.


The Classification Committee is comprised of both members of management and the Board of Directors. The adequacy of the reserves is analyzed quarterly, with any adjustment to a level deemed appropriate by the Classification Committee, based on its risk assessment of the entire portfolio. Based on the Classification Committee’s review of the classified loans and the overall reserve levels as they relate to the entire loan portfolio at June 30, 2005, management believes the allowance for loan losses has been established at levels sufficient to cover the probable incurred losses in the Bank’s loan portfolio. Future additions or reductions to the allowance may be necessary based on changes in economic, market or other conditions. Changes in estimates could result in a material change in the allowance. In addition, various regulatory agencies, as an integral part of the examination process, periodically review the Bank’s allowance for loan losses. Such agencies may require the Bank to recognize adjustments to the allowance based on their judgments of the information available to them at the time of their examination.

Net Income

Net income for the three-month period ended June 30, 2005 totaled $2,325,000 or $0.37 per diluted share as compared to $2,542,000 or $0.40 per diluted share for the same period in 2004. Changes for the three months ended June 30, 2005 include: (i) $117,000 or 1.9% decrease in net interest income; (ii) $100,000 increase in the provision for loan losses; (iii) $124,000 or 10.2% increase in total other income and (iv) $349,000 or 10.6% increase in total other expenses, over the same period in 2004. The effective income tax rate decreased to 33.9% from 35.8% for the same period last year, which is partially attributed to a reduction in the New York State tax.

Net income for the six-month period ended June 30, 2005 totaled $4,575,000 or $0.73 per diluted share as compared to $5,167,000 or $0.82 per diluted share for the same period in 2004. Changes for the six months ended June 30, 2005 include: (i) $25,000 or 0.2% decrease in net interest income; (ii) $100,000 increase in the provision for loan losses; (iii) $446,000 or 15.9% decrease in total other income and (iv) $514,000 or 7.7% increase in total other expenses, over the same period in 2004. The effective income tax rate decreased to 34.3% from 35.8% for the same period last year, which is partially attributed to a reduction in the New York State tax.

Analysis of Net Interest Income

Net interest income, the primary contributor to earnings, represents the difference between income on interest earning assets and expenses on interest bearing liabilities. Net interest income depends upon the volume of interest earning assets and interest bearing liabilities and the interest rates earned or paid on them.

The following table sets forth certain information relating to the Company’s average consolidated statements of financial condition and its consolidated statements of income for the periods indicated and reflect the average yield on assets and average cost of liabilities for the periods indicated. Such yields and costs are derived by dividing income or expense by the average balance of assets or liabilities, respectively, for the periods shown. Average balances are derived from daily average balances and include non-performing accrual loans. The yields and costs include fees, which are considered adjustments to yields. Interest on nonaccrual loans has been included only to the extent reflected in the consolidated statements of income. For purposes of this table, the average balances for investments in debt and equity securities exclude unrealized appreciation/depreciation due to the application of SFAS No. 115, “Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities.”

 

 

 Three months ended June 30,  
2005 
 
2004 
(In thousands)
         
Average
         
Average
 
   
Average
     
Yield/
 
Average
     
Yield/
 
   
Balance
 
Interest
 
Cost
 
Balance
 
Interest
 
Cost
 
                                       
Interest earning assets:
                                     
Loans, net (including loan fee income)
 
$
301,836
 
$
5,111
   
6.8
%
$
287,347
 
$
4,776
   
6.7
%
Mortgage-backed securities
   
100,531
   
1,016
   
4.0
   
106,230
   
940
   
3.5
 
Taxable securities
   
36,021
   
322
   
3.5
   
53,701
   
517
   
3.8
 
Tax exempt securities (1)
   
59,346
   
694
   
4.6
   
51,433
   
607
   
4.7
 
Federal funds sold
   
9,902
   
71
   
2.8
   
7,275
   
18
   
1.0
 
Securities, restricted
   
2,162
   
24
   
4.5
   
1,979
   
5
   
1.0
 
Deposits with banks
   
77
   
1
   
5.2
   
216
   
-
   
-
 
Total interest earning assets
   
509,875
   
7,239
   
5.7
   
508,181
   
6,863
   
5.4
 
Non interest earning assets:
                                     
Cash and due from banks
   
17,187
               
17,194
             
Other assets
   
17,802
               
17,391
             
Total assets
 
$
544,864
             
$
542,766
             
                                       
Interest bearing liabilities:
                                     
Savings, N.O.W. and
                                     
money market deposits
 
$
251,023
 
$
736
   
1.2
%
$
256,230
 
$
308
   
0.5
%
Certificates of deposit of $100,000
                                     
or more
   
33,308
   
160
   
1.9
   
38,330
   
121
   
1.3
 
Other time deposits
   
28,307
   
112
   
1.6
   
31,420
   
111
   
1.4
 
Federal funds purchased
   
171
   
2
   
4.6
   
4,382
   
15
   
1.4
 
Other borrowings
   
2,920
   
23
   
3.2
   
2,802
   
8
   
1.2
 
Total interest bearing liabilities
   
315,729
   
1,033
   
1.3
   
333,164
   
563
   
0.7
 
Non interest bearing liabilities:
                                     
Demand deposits
   
179,521
               
162,715
             
Other liabilities
   
1,881
               
2,290
             
Total liabilities
   
497,131
               
498,169
             
Stockholders’ equity
   
47,733
               
44,597
             
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
 
$
544,864
             
$
542,766
             
                                       
Net interest income/interest rate spread (2)
         
6,206
   
4.4
%
       
6,300
   
4.7
%
                                       
Net interest earning assets/net interest margin (3)
 
$
194,146
         
4.9
%
$
175,017
         
5.0
%
                                       
Ratio of interest earning assets to
                                     
interest bearing liabilities
               
161.5
%
             
152.5
%
                                       
Less: Tax equivalent adjustment
         
(235
)
             
(212
)
     
                                       
Net interest income
       
$
5,971
             
$
6,088
       

(1)
The above table is presented on a tax equivalent basis.
(2)
Net interest rate spread represents the difference between the yield on interest earning assets and the cost of interest bearing liabilities.
(3)
Net interest margin represents net interest income divided by average interest earning assets.
 


 Six months ended June 30,  
2005 
 
2004 
(In thousands)
         
Average
         
Average
 
   
Average
     
Yield/
 
Average
     
Yield/
 
   
Balance
 
Interest
 
Cost
 
Balance
 
Interest
 
Cost
 
                                       
Interest earning assets:
                                     
Loans, net (including loan fee income)
 
$
298,582
 
$
9,992
   
6.8
%
$
283,213
 
$
9,389
   
6.7
%
Mortgage-backed securities
   
103,043
   
2,089
   
4.0
   
98,135
   
1,828
   
3.7
 
Taxable securities
   
44,270
   
821
   
3.7
   
53,679
   
1,040
   
3.8
 
Tax exempt securities (1)
   
60,325
   
1,365
   
4.5
   
50,123
   
1,220
   
4.8
 
Federal funds sold
   
5,404
   
76
   
2.8
   
8,493
   
42
   
1.0
 
Securities, restricted
   
2,071
   
40
   
3.9
   
1,810
   
12
   
1.4
 
Deposits with banks
   
71
   
1
   
2.8
   
177
   
-
   
-
 
Total interest earning assets
   
513,766
   
14,384
   
5.6
   
495,630
   
13,531
   
5.5
 
Non interest earning assets:
                                     
Cash and due from banks
   
15,974
               
16,961
             
Other assets
   
18,444
               
17,937
             
Total assets
 
$
548,184
             
$
530,528
             
                                       
Interest bearing liabilities:
                                     
Savings, N.O.W. and
                                     
money market deposits
 
$
250,808
 
$
1,264
   
1.0
%
$
253,625
 
$
602
   
0.5
%
Certificates of deposit of $100,000
                                     
or more
   
34,578
   
308
   
1.8
   
37,460
   
240
   
1.3
 
Other time deposits
   
29,453
   
219
   
1.5
   
31,654
   
228
   
1.5
 
Federal funds purchased
   
1,630
   
22
   
2.7
   
3,519
   
24
   
1.3
 
Other borrowings
   
10,060
   
136
   
2.7
   
1,401
   
8
   
1.5
 
Total interest bearing liabilities
   
326,529
   
1,949
   
1.2
   
327,659
   
1,102
   
0.7
 
Non interest bearing liabilities:
                                     
Demand deposits
   
171,671
               
155,355
             
Other liabilities
   
2,153
               
3,126
             
Total liabilities
   
500,353
               
486,140
             
Stockholders’ equity
   
47,831
               
44,388
             
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
 
$
548,184
             
$
530,528
             
                                       
Net interest income/interest rate spread (2)
         
12,435
   
4.4
%
       
12,429
   
4.8
%
                                       
Net interest earning assets/net interest margin (3)
 
$
187,237
         
4.9
%
$
167,971
         
5.0
%
                                       
Ratio of interest earning assets to
                                     
interest bearing liabilities
               
157.3
%
             
151.3
%
                                       
Less: Tax equivalent adjustment
         
(468
)
             
(437
)
     
                                       
Net interest income
       
$
11,967
             
$
11,992
       
 

(1)
The above table is presented on a tax equivalent basis.
(2)
Net interest rate spread represents the difference between the yield on interest earning assets and the cost of interest bearing liabilities.
(3)
Net interest margin represents net interest income divided by average interest earning assets.


Rate/Volume Analysis

Net interest income can be analyzed in terms of the impact of changes in rates and volumes. The following table illustrates the extent to which changes in interest rates and in volume of average interest earning assets and interest bearing liabilities have affected the Bank’s interest income and interest expense during the periods indicated. Information is provided in each category with respect to (i) changes attributable to changes in volume (changes in volume multiplied by prior rate); (ii) changes attributable to changes in rates (changes in rates multiplied by prior volume); and (iii) the net changes. For purposes of this table, changes that are not due solely to volume or rate changes have been allocated to these categories based on the respective percentage changes in average volume and rate. Due to the numerous simultaneous volume and rate changes during the periods analyzed, it is not possible to precisely allocate changes between volume and rates. In addition, average earning assets include nonaccrual loans.

   
Three months ended June 30
 
Six months ended June 30
 
   
2005 Over 2004
 
2005 Over 2004
 
(In thousands)
 
Changes Due To
 
Changes Due To
 
 
   
Volume 
   
Rate
   
Net Change
   
Volume
   
Rate
   
Net Change
 
Interest income on interest
                                     
earning assets:
                                     
                                       
Loans (including loan fee income)
 
$
254
 
$
81
 
$
335
 
$
492
 
$
111
 
$
603
 
Mortgage-backed securities
   
(269
)
 
345
   
76
   
91
   
170
   
261
 
Taxable securities
   
(160
)
 
(35
)
 
(195
)
 
(180
)
 
(39
)
 
(219
)
Tax exempt securities (1)
   
123
   
(36
)
 
87
   
348
   
(203
)
 
145
 
Federal funds sold
   
8
   
45
   
53
   
(45
)
 
79
   
34
 
Securities, restricted
   
1
   
18
   
19
   
2
   
26
   
28
 
Deposits with banks
   
(10
)
 
11
   
1
   
(4
)
 
5
   
1
 
Total interest earning assets
   
(53
)
 
429
   
376
   
704
   
149
   
853
 
                                       
Interest expense on interest
                                     
bearing liabilities:
                                     
                                       
Savings, N.O.W. and money market deposits
   
(44
)
 
472
   
428
   
(20
)
 
682
   
662
 
Certificates of deposit of $100,000 or more
   
(94
)
 
133
   
39
   
(51
)
 
119
   
68
 
Other time deposits
   
(47
)
 
48
   
1
   
(24
)
 
15
   
(9
)
Federal funds purchased
   
(85
)
 
72
   
(13
)
 
(34
)
 
32
   
(2
)
Other borrowings
   
-
   
15
   
15
   
80
   
48
   
128
 
Total interest bearing liabilities
   
(270
)
 
740
   
470
   
(49
)
 
896
   
847
 
Net interest income
 
$
217
 
$
(311
)
$
(94
)
$
753
 
$
(747
)
$
6
 

(1) The above table is presented on a tax equivalent basis.

The net interest margin for the three months ended June 30, 2005 decreased to 4.9% from 5.0% from the same three-month period in 2004. The decrease in net interest income of $117,000 or 1.9% for the current three-month period over the same period last year primarily resulted from the effect of the increase in rate for the average total interest bearing liabilities being greater than the effect of the increase in the rate of average total interest earning assets. There was a 0.3% increase in average total interest earning assets to $509,875,000 from $508,181,000. The yield on average interest earning assets for the three-month period ended June 30, 2005 increased to 5.7% from 5.4% during the same period in 2004. Average interest bearing liabilities decreased 5.2% to $315,729,000 in 2005 from $333,164,000 for the same period last year. The cost of average interest bearing liabilities increased to 1.3% during 2005 from 0.7% for 2004.

The decrease in net interest income of $25,000 or 0.2% for the current six-month period over the same period last year primarily resulted from a 3.7% increase in average total interest earning assets to $513,766,000 from $495,630,000 for the comparable period in 2004. The net change in rate for average total interest bearing liabilities was a greater increase than the change in rate for average total interest earning assets. Average interest bearing liabilities decreased 0.3% to $326,529,000 in 2005 from $327,659,000 for the same period last year. The yield on average interest earning


assets for the six-month period ended June 30, 2005 increased to 5.6% from 5.5% during the same period in 2004. The cost of average interest bearing liabilities increased to 1.2% for the six-month period ended June 30, 2005 from 0.7% for the same six-month period in 2004. The net interest margin decreased to 4.9% for the six months ended June 30, 2005 from 5.0% from the same six-month period in 2004.

For the six-month period ended June 30, 2005 the yield on average interest earning assets was up from the six-month period ended June 30, 2004. The cost of average interest bearing liabilities also was up from the same six-month period in 2004 due to increases in interest rates on interest bearing deposits and average overnight borrowings. Because the Company’s interest bearing liabilities generally reprice or mature more quickly than its interest earning assets, an increase in short term interest rates would initially result in a decrease in net interest income.

For the six month period ended June 30, 2005, average loans grew by $15,369,000 or 5.4% as compared to average loans for the six-month period ended June 30, 2004. Real estate mortgage loans primarily contributed to the growth as well as an increase in real estate construction loans. Growth in real estate loans is mainly attributed to an increase in commercial construction loans, home equity loans and residential mortgages. The Bank is committed to growing loans with prudent underwriting, sensible pricing and limited credit and extension risk.

For the six month period ended June 30, 2005, average total investments grew by $5,962,000 or 2.9% as compared to average total investments for the six-month period ended June 30, 2004. Average balances in mortgage-backed securities and tax exempt securities increased year over year, while average taxable securities decreased for the first six months of 2005 as compared to the first six months of 2004. Average federal funds sold decreased $3,089,000 or 36.4% over the average balance for the same period in the prior year.

For the six month period ended June 30, 2005, average total deposits grew by $8,416,000, or 1.8%, as compared to average total deposits for the six-month period ended June 30, 2004. For the six month period ended June 30, 2005, components of this change include an increase in average demand deposits of $16,316,000 or 10.5% as compared to average demand deposits for the six-month period ended June 30, 2004. Average balances in savings N.O.W. and money market accounts; certificates of deposit of $100,000 or more; and other time deposits decreased $7,900,000 or 2.4% for the six month period ended June 30, 2005 as compared to average balances over the same six month period in 2004. Over the preceding six-month periods, average public fund deposits comprised 17.0% of total average deposits at June 30, 2005 and 19.4% of total average deposits at June 30, 2004. Average federal funds purchased totaled with average other borrowings increased $6,770,000 or 137.6% over the average balances for the same period in the prior year.

Provision and Allowance for Loan Losses

The Bank’s loan portfolio consists primarily of real estate loans secured by commercial and residential real estate properties located in the Bank’s principal lending area on eastern Long Island. The interest rates charged by the Bank on loans are affected primarily by the demand for such loans, the supply of money available for lending purposes, the rates offered by its competitors, the Bank’s relationship with the customer and the related credit risks of the transaction. These factors are affected by general and economic conditions including, but not limited to, monetary policies of the federal government, including the Federal Reserve Board, legislative policies and governmental budgetary matters.

The credit quality of the loan portfolio remained strong for the quarter ended June 30, 2005. Since December 31, 2004, nonaccrual loans decreased $1,239,000 to $456,000 from $1,695,000, representing 0.15% of net loans at June 30, 2005. Total nonaccrual loans represented 0.6% of net loans at December 31, 2004. Subsequent to December 31, 2004, three loans having a total principal amount of $1,288,000 were removed from the nonaccrual list, with two loans returning to accrual status and one loan repaid. The Bank had no foreclosed real estate at June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004. The Bank recognized net recoveries in the amount of $72,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2005 as compared to net charge-offs of $22,000 for the same period in 2004.

Loans of approximately $6,791,000 or 2.2% of total loans at June 30, 2005 were classified as potential problem loans. This was a decrease of $888,000 from $7,679,000 or 2.6% of total loans at December 31, 2004. These are loans for which management has information that indicates the borrower may not be able to comply with the present payment terms. These loans are subject to increased management attention and their classification is reviewed on at least a quarterly basis. Due to the structure and nature of the credits, management currently believes that the likelihood of sustaining a material loss on these relationships is remote.


Based on our continuing review of the overall loan portfolio, of the current asset quality of the portfolio, and the net recoveries of $72,000, a provision for loan losses of $150,000 was recorded during the first six months of 2005. The allowance for loan losses increased to $2,410,000 at June 30, 2005, as compared to $2,188, 000 at December 31, 2004. As a percentage of total loans, the allowance was 0.80% at June 30, 2005, 0.78% at March 31, 2005, and 0.74% at December 31, 2004.

Non Interest Income

Total other income increased during the three-month period ended June 30, 2005 by $124,000 or 10.2% over the same period last year. Net gains on sales of securities during the three months ended June 30, 2005 totaled $52,000, compared to net securities gains for the three-month period ended June 30, 2004 of $5,000. Service charges on deposit accounts for the three-month period ended June 30, 2005 totaled $593,000 reflecting a decrease of $64,000. We believe that customers have modified their behavior to avoid paying fees, which partially stems from changes in our fee policies. Certain published research indicates that this is an industry pattern. Fees for other customer services for the three-month period ended June 30, 2005 totaled $358,000, an increase of $45,000 from the same three-month period in 2004. The higher income predominately related to increased merchant processing revenue..

Total other income decreased during the six-month period ended June 30, 2005 by $446,000 or 15.9% over the same period last year. Net gains on sales of securities during the six months ended June 30, 2005 totaled $115,000, compared to net securities gains for the six-month period ended June 30, 2004 of $626,000. Excluding net securities gains, total other income increased $65,000 or 3.0% for the six months ended June 30, 2005. Service charges on deposit accounts for the six-month period ended June 30, 2005 totaled $1,144,000, reflecting a decrease of 7.7% over the six months ended June 30, 2005. The decline is attributable to the aforementioned change in customer behavior. Fees for other customer services for the six-month period ended June 30, 2005 totaled $581,000, an increase of 2.7% from the same six-month period in 2004 Bridge Abstract generated title fee income of $295,000 and $213,000 for the three-month periods ended June 30, 2005 and 2004, respectively; and $455,000 and $325,000 for the six-month periods ended June 30, 2005 and 2004, respectively.

Non Interest Expense

Total other expenses increased during the three-month period ended June 30, 2005 by $349,000 or 10.6% and increased during the six-month period ended June 30, 2005 by $514,000 or 7.7% over the same periods last year. The primary component of this increase was salary and benefit expense increasing $310,000 or 17.4% for the three-month period and increasing $486,000 or 13.1% for the six-month ended June 30, 2005 over the same periods last year. Increases in salaries and employee benefit costs were due to base salary increases, filling vacant positions and hiring new employees to support the Company’s expanding infrastructure.

Total other operating expenses for the three-month period ended June 30, 2005 totaled $1,016,000; an increase of $54,000 or 5.6% over the same period last year. Total other operating expenses for the six-month period ended June 30, 2005 totaled $1,904,000; an increase of $28,000 or 1.5% over the same period last year.

Income Taxes

The provision for income taxes decreased during the three-month period ended June 30, 2005 by $225,000 or 15.9% over the same period last year due to the reduction in income before provision for income taxes The effective tax rate for the three-month period ended June 30, 2005 decreased to 33.9% as compared to 35.8% for the same period last year. The effective tax rate for the six-month period ended June 30, 2005 decreased to 34.3% as compared to 35.8% for the same period last year. These reductions are partially attributed to a reduction in the the New York State tax .

Financial Condition

Assets totaled $557,321,000 at June 30, 2005, an increase of $10,121,000 or 1.9% from December 31, 2004. This change is primarily a result of increases in federal funds sold of $31,200,000 and total loans of $6,704,000 and offset by decreases in the investment portfolio of $34,563,000, or 15.4% due to sales and maturities of investment securities. Inflows were due to an increase in demand deposits of $36,036,000, or 22.8%; and savings, N.O.W. and money market deposits of $11,047,000, or 4.6%, which in part were used to pay down the overnight borrowing position at December 31, 2004.


Total stockholders’ equity was $47,741,000 at June 30, 2005, an increase of 1.1% from December 31, 2004.

Liquidity

The objective of liquidity management is to ensure the sufficiency of funds available to respond to the needs of depositors and borrowers, and to access unanticipated earnings enhancement opportunities for Company growth. Liquidity management addresses the ability to meet deposit withdrawals either on demand or contractual maturity, to repay other borrowings as they mature and to make new loans and investments as opportunities arise.

The Company’s principal source of liquidity is dividends from the Bank. Due to regulatory restrictions, dividends from the Bank to the Company at June 30, 2005 were limited to $13,074,000, which represents the Bank’s 2005 retained net income and the net undivided profits from the previous two years. The dividends received from the Bank are used primarily for dividends to the shareholders and stock repurchases. In the event that the Company subsequently expands its current operations, in addition to dividends from the Bank, it will need to rely on its own earnings, additional capital raised and other borrowings to meet liquidity needs.

The Bank’s most liquid assets are cash and cash equivalents, securities available for sale and securities held to maturity due within one year. The levels of these assets are dependent upon the Bank’s operating, financing, lending and investing activities during any given period. Other sources of liquidity include loan and security principal repayments and maturities, lines of credit with other financial institutions including the Federal Home Loan Bank, and growth in core deposits. While scheduled loan amortization, maturing securities and short-term investments are a relatively predictable source of funds, deposit flows and loan and mortgage-backed securities prepayments are greatly influenced by general interest rates, economic conditions and competition. The Bank adjusts its liquidity levels as appropriate to meet funding needs such as seasonal deposit outflows, loans, and asset and liability management objectives. Historically, the Bank has relied on its deposit base, drawn through its full-service branches that serve its market area, as its principal source of funding. The Bank seeks to retain existing deposits and loans and maintain customer relationships by offering quality service and competitive interest rates to its customers, while managing the overall cost of funds needed to finance its strategies. The Bank’s Asset/Liability and Funds Management Policy allows for wholesale borrowings of up to 15% of total assets. At June 30, 2005, the Bank had aggregate lines of credit of
$42,000,000 with unaffiliated correspondent banks to provide short-term credit for liquidity requirements. Of these aggregate lines of credit, $22,000,000 is available on an unsecured basis. The Bank also has the ability, as a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) system, to borrow against unencumbered residential mortgages owned by the Bank. The Bank also has a master repurchase agreement with the FHLB, which increases its borrowing capacity. In addition, the Bank has an approved broker relationship for the purpose of issuing brokered certificates of deposit. There were no overnight borrowings at June 30, 2005.

Management continually monitors the liquidity position and believes that sufficient liquidity exists to meet all of our operating requirements. Based on the objectives determined by the Asset and Liability Committee, the Bank’s liquidity levels may be affected by the use of short-term and wholesale borrowings. The Asset and Liability Committee is comprised of members of senior management and the Board. Excess short-term liquidity is invested in overnight federal funds sold. Management believes the Company has sufficient liquidity to meet its operating requirements.

Capital Resources

The Company and the Bank are subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by the federal banking agencies. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can result in certain mandatory and possibly additional discretionary actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on the Company’s and the Bank’s financial statements. Under capital adequacy guidelines and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, the Company and the Bank must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of the Company’s and Bank’s assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance sheet items calculated under regulatory accounting practices. The Company’s and Bank’s capital amounts and classification also are subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings, and other factors.

Quantitative measures established by regulation to ensure capital adequacy require the Company and the Bank to maintain minimum amounts and ratios (set forth in the following table) of total and Tier 1 capital (as defined in the regulations) to risk weighted assets (as defined), and of Tier 1 capital (as defined) to average assets (as defined). Management believes, as of June 30, 2005, that the Company and the Bank meet all capital adequacy requirements


with which it must comply.

The Company’s only activity is the ownership of the Bank, and therefore, its capital, capital ratios, and minimum required levels of capital are substantially the same as the Bank’s. At June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004, actual capital levels and minimum required levels for the Bank were as follows:

               
 
 
To Be Well
 
           
For Capital
 
Capitalized Under
 
 
         
Adequacy
 
Prompt Corrective
 
(In thousands)
 
Actual
 
Purposes
 
Action Provisions
 
   
Amount
 
Ratio
 
Amount
 
Ratio
 
Amount
 
Ratio
 
                                       
As of June 30, 2005
                                     
Total Capital (to risk weighted assets)
 
$
49,156
   
13.4
%
$
29,386
   
>8.0
%
$
35,873
   
>10.0
%
Tier 1 Capital (to risk weighted assets)
   
46,746
   
12.7
   
14,693
   
>4.0
   
21,524
   
>6.0
 
Tier 1 Capital (to average assets)
   
46,746
   
8.6
   
21,825
   
>4.0
   
27,615
   
>5.0
 

As of December 31, 2004
     
Total Capital (to risk weighted assets)
 
$
47,773
   
13.2
%
$
28,924
   
>8.0
%
$
36,154
   
>10.0
%
Tier 1 Capital (to risk weighted assets)
   
45,585
   
12.6
   
14,462
   
>4.0
   
21,693
   
>6.0
 
Tier 1 Capital (to average assets)
   
45,585
   
8.1
   
22,512
   
>4.0
   
28,140
   
>5.0
 

Impact of Inflation and Changing Prices

The unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements and notes thereto presented herein have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, which require the measurement of financial position and operating results in terms of historical dollars without considering changes in the relative purchasing power of money over time due to inflation. The primary effect of inflation on the operations of the Company is reflected in increased operating costs. Unlike most industrial companies, virtually all of the assets and liabilities of a financial institution are monetary in nature. As a result, changes in interest rates have a more significant effect on the performance of a financial institution than do the effects of changes in the general rate of inflation and changes in prices. Changes in interest rates could aversely affect our results of operations and financial condition. Interest rates do not necessarily move in the same direction, or in the same magnitude, as the prices of goods and services. Interest rates are highly sensitive to many factors, which are beyond the control of the Company, including the influence of domestic and foreign economic conditions and the monetary and fiscal policies of the United States government and federal agencies, particularly the Federal Reserve Bank.

Recent Regulatory and Accounting Developments

SFAS 123R, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation, Revised, requires all public companies to record compensation cost for stock options provided to employees in return for employee service. The cost is measured at the fair value of the options when granted, and this cost is expensed over the employee service period, which is normally the vesting period of the options. The Securities and Exchange Commission in April 2005 amended the compliance dates for SFAS 123R from periods beginning after June 15, 2005 to the beginning of the next fiscal year. Historically options granted by the Company have vested immediately; compensation expense would be recorded on the date of grant. The effect on results of operations will depend on the level of future option grants and the calculation of the fair value of the options granted at such future date and so cannot currently be predicted. The majority of the options granted will vest immediately so no additional compensation expense will be recorded subsequent to the date of adoption of SFAS 123R , while some may vest over time; therefore, compensation expense will be recorded after the implementation of SFAS 123R. There will be no significant effect on financial position as total equity will not change.


Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

Asset/Liability Management

Management considers interest rate risk to be the most significant market risk for the Company. Market risk is the risk of loss from adverse changes in market prices and rates. Interest rate risk is the exposure to adverse changes in the net income of the Company as a result of changes in interest rates.

The Company’s primary earnings source is net interest income, which is affected by changes in the level of interest rates, the relationship between rates, the impact of interest rate fluctuations on asset prepayments, the level and composition of deposits and liabilities, and the credit quality of earning assets. The Company’s objectives in its asset and liability management are to maintain a strong, stable net interest margin, to utilize its capital effectively without taking undue risks, to maintain adequate liquidity, and to reduce vulnerability of its operations to changes in interest rates.

The Company’s Asset and Liability Committee evaluates periodically, but at least four times a year, the impact of changes in market interest rates on assets and liabilities, net interest margin, capital and liquidity. Risk assessments are governed by policies and limits established by senior management, which are reviewed and approved by the full Board of Directors at least annually. The economic environment continually presents uncertainties as to future interest rate trends. The Asset and Liability Committee regularly utilizes a model that projects net interest income based on increasing or decreasing interest rates, in order to be better able to respond to changes in interest rates.

The Company utilizes a simulation model to quantify the estimated exposure to net interest income to sustained interest rate changes. Management routinely monitors simulated net interest income sensitivity over a rolling two-year horizon. The simulation model captures the impact of changing interest rates on the interest income received and the interest expense paid on all assets and liabilities reflected on the Company’s Statement of Condition. This sensitivity analysis is compared to the asset and liability policy limits that specify a maximum tolerance level for net interest income exposure over a one-year horizon given both a 200 basis point upward and downward shift in interest rates. Because of the historically low rate environment at year-end 2004, the simulation modeled was a 100 basis point shift downward at December 31, 2004. The simulation was modeled with a 200 basis point shift downward for June 30, 2005. A parallel and pro rata shift in rates over a twelve-month period is assumed. The following reflects the Company’s net interest income sensitivity analysis at June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004:

   
June 30, 2005
 
December 31, 2004
 
Change in Interest
 
Potential Change
 
Potential Change
 
Rates in Basis Points
 
in Net
 
in Net
 
(RATE SHOCK)
 
Interest Income
 
Interest Income
 
(In thousands)
                 
   
$ Change
 
% Change
 
$ Change
 
% Change
 
200
 
$
109
   
0.42
%
$
(472
)
 
(1.84
)%
Static
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
(100)
             
$
220
   
0.86
%
(200)
 
$
(311
)
 
(1.20
)%
           

The preceding sensitivity analysis does not represent a Company forecast and should not be relied upon as being indicative of expected operating results. These hypothetical estimates are based upon numerous assumptions including, but not limited to, the nature and timing of interest rate levels and yield curve shapes, prepayments on loans and securities, deposit decay rates, pricing decisions on loans and deposits, and reinvestment and replacement of asset and liability cash flows. While assumptions are developed based upon perceived current economic and local market conditions, the Company cannot make any assurances as to the predictive nature of these assumptions including how customer preferences or competitor influences may change.

Also, as market conditions vary from those assumed in the sensitivity analysis, actual results will also differ due to prepayment and refinancing levels likely deviating from those assumed, the varying impact of interest rate change caps or floors on adjustable rate assets, the potential effect of changing debt service levels on customers with adjustable rate loans, depositor early withdrawals, prepayment penalties and product preference changes and other internal and external variables. Furthermore, the sensitivity analysis does not reflect actions that management might take in responding to, or anticipating changes in interest rates and market conditions.



Item 4. Controls and Procedures

An evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) promulgated under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) as of June 30, 2005. Based on that evaluation, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report. There has been no change in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting during the quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.



PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

None.

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Period
Total Number of Shares Purchased in Month
Average Price Paid per Share
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs-2004 (1)
Maximum Number (or Approximate Dollar Value) of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs
April 2005
     
159,310
May 2005
5,000
$29.70
26,500
154,310
June 2005
24,470
$28.43
50,970
129,840

(1)
The Board of Directors reaffirmed the stock repurchase program on May 17, 2004.
   
-
The Board of Directors approved repurchase of shares up to 180,810 shares.
-
There is no expiration date for the stock repurchase plan.
-
There is no stock repurchase plan that has expired nor been terminated during the period ended June 30, 2005.

Item 3. Defaults upon Senior Securities

Not applicable.

Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

The Annual Meeting of Shareholders was held at The Bridgehampton National Bank, 2200 Montauk Highway, Bridgehampton, New York 11932 on April 29, 2005.

Three Class C directors were elected for a term of three years.

Nominees for Director
For
Against or Withheld
Class C (three year term):
   
Raymond Wesnofske
4,801,764
33,979
Thomas J. Tobin
4,777,959
57,784
Charles I. Massoud
4,801,771
33,972
     
Directors Continuing in Office
   
Class A (remaining one year term):
   
R. Timothy Maran
   
Dennis A. Suskind
   
     
Class B (remaining two year term):
   
Thomas E. Halsey
   
Marcia Z. Hefter
   
Howard H. Nolan
   

Ratification of Independent Auditors
For
Against or Withheld
Crowe Chizek and Company LLC
4,829,346
6,397

Item 5. Other Information

Not applicable.


Item 6. Exhibits

31.1 Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)
31.2 Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)
32.1 Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(b) and  18 U.S.C. Section 1350




SIGNATURES

In accordance with the requirement of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.


 
BRIDGE BANCORP, INC.
 
Registrant
   
   
August 8, 2005
/s/ Thomas J. Tobin
 
Thomas J. Tobin
 
President and Chief Executive Officer
   
August 8, 2005
/s/ Janet T. Verneuille
 
Janet T. Verneuille
 
Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer
 
and Treasurer
   

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