UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSIONWashington, D.C. 20549FORM 10-Q
(X)
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2006
or
( )
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from to
Commission File Number 0-11242
First Commonwealth Financial Corporation
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Pennsylvania
25-1428528
(State or other jurisdiction of
(I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)
Identification No.)
22 North Sixth Street, Indiana, PA
15701
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)
724-349-7220 (Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
N/A (Former name, former address and former fiscal year,if changed since last report)
Indicate a 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 a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer or a non-accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Large accelerated filer X Accelerated filer Non-accelerated filer
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes No X
The number of shares outstanding of issuer's common stock, $1.00 Par Value as of April 30, 2006, was 70,592,913.
FIRST COMMONWEALTH FINANCIAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIESPART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
PAGE
Included in Part I of this report:
First Commonwealth Financial Corporation and
Subsidiaries Consolidated Balance Sheets............
3
Consolidated Statements of Income...................
4
Consolidated Statements of Changes in
Shareholders' Equity..............................
5
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows...............
7
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements..........
8
ITEM 2.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS...............
15
ITEM 3.
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK.................................
33
ITEM 4.
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES...............................
34
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.......................................
35
ITEM 1A.
RISK FACTORS............................................
UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS.................................
DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES.........................
SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS.....
ITEM 5.
OTHER INFORMATION.......................................
ITEM 6.
EXHIBITS................................................
36
Signatures..............................................
37
Exhibits
FIRST COMMONWEALTH FINANCIAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIESCONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Unaudited)(Dollars in thousands)
March 31, 2006
December 31, 2005
ASSETS
Cash and due from banks
$
84,627
84,555
Interest-bearing bank deposits
391
473
Federal funds sold
-0-
1,575
Securities available for sale, at market
1,737,899
1,851,986
Securities held to maturity, at amortized cost, (Market value $86,986 in 2006 and $89,804 in 2005)
85,673
87,757
Loans held for sale
553
1,276
Loans:
Portfolio loans
3,651,632
3,623,102
Unearned income
(98)
(119)
Allowance for credit losses
(38,017)
(39,492)
Net loans
3,613,517
3,583,491
Premises and equipment
61,230
60,860
Other real estate owned
1,499
1,655
Goodwill
122,702
Amortizing intangibles, net
14,686
15,251
Other assets
221,733
214,739
Total assets
5,944,510
6,026,320
LIABILITIES
Deposits (all domestic):
Noninterest-bearing
499,161
491,644
Interest-bearing
3,496,577
3,504,908
Total deposits
3,995,738
3,996,552
Short-term borrowings
601,426
665,665
Other liabilities
37,952
43,314
Subordinated debentures
108,250
Other long-term debt
685,395
691,494
Total long-term debt
793,645
799,744
Total liabilities
5,428,761
5,505,275
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Preferred stock, $1 par value per share, 3,000,000 shares authorized, none issued
Common stock $1 par value per share, 100,000,000 shares authorized; 71,978,568 shares issued at March 31, 2006 and December 31, 2005; 70,500,069 and 70,377,916 shares outstanding at March 31, 2006 and December 31, 2005, respectively
71,978
Additional paid-in capital
173,369
173,967
Retained earnings
319,523
318,569
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(17,349)
(9,655)
Treasury stock (1,478,499 shares at March 31, 2006 and 1,600,652 shares at December 31, 2005, at cost)
(18,672)
(20,214)
Unearned ESOP shares
(13,100)
(13,600)
Total shareholders' equity
515,749
521,045
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.3
FIRST COMMONWEALTH FINANCIAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIESCONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (Unaudited)(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
For the QuarterEnded March 31,
2006
2005
Interest Income
Interest and fees on loans
58,314
52,591
Interest and dividends on investments:
Taxable interest
17,585
19,273
Interest exempt from Federal income taxes
3,219
3,053
Dividends
603
709
Interest on Federal funds sold
46
Interest on bank deposits
14
Total interest income
79,781
75,637
Interest Expense
Interest on deposits
23,384
16,502
Interest on short-term borrowings
6,364
5,558
Interest on subordinated debentures
2,054
1,902
Interest on other long-term debt
6,532
6,743
Total interest on long-term debt
8,586
8,645
Total interest expense
38,334
30,705
Net Interest Income
41,447
44,932
Provision for credit losses
908
1,744
Net interest income after provision for credit losses
40,539
43,188
Other Income
Net securities gains
63
485
Trust income
1,394
1,325
Service charges on deposit accounts
3,869
3,540
Insurance commissions
719
840
Income from bank owned life insurance
1,375
1,321
Merchant discount income
839
Card related interchange income
1,298
1,087
Other income
1,578
2,003
Total other income
10,296
11,440
Other Expenses
Salaries and employee benefits
19,357
18,298
Net occupancy expense
3,402
2,992
Furniture and equipment expense
2,767
2,870
Data processing expense
795
939
Pennsylvania shares tax expense
1,350
1,266
Intangible amortization
565
Other operating expenses
7,357
8,463
Total other expenses
35,593
35,393
Income before income taxes
15,242
19,235
Applicable income taxes
2,304
4,016
Net income
12,938
15,219
Average Shares Outstanding
69,469,709
69,346,722
Average Shares Outstanding Assuming Dilution
69,918,151
70,024,400
Per Share Data:
Basic earnings per share
0.19
0.22
Diluted earnings per share
Cash dividends per share
0.170
0.165
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.4
FIRST COMMONWEALTH FINANCIAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIESCONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY(Unaudited)(Dollars in thousands)
CommonStock
AdditionalPaid-inCapital
RetainedEarnings
AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncome (Loss)
TreasuryStock
UnearnedESOP Shares
TotalShareholders'Equity
Balance December 31, 2004
175,453
307,363
10,002
(26,643)
(6,175)
531,978
Comprehensive income:
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax:
Unrealized holding losses on securities arising during the period
(17,961)
Less: reclassification adjustment for gains on securities included in net income
(305)
Unrealized holding losses on derivatives used in cash flow hedging relationship arising during the period
(637)
Total other comprehensive loss
(18,903)
Total comprehensive loss
‑0-
(3,684)
Cash dividends declared
(11,535)
Net increase in unearned ESOP shares
(3,786)
Discount on dividend reinvestment plan purchases
(221)
Treasury stock reissued
(130)
550
420
Tax benefit of stock options
(35)
Balance at March 31, 2005
175,067
311,047
(8,901)
(26,093)
(9,961)
513,137
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.5
Balance December 31, 2005
(7,859)
(41)
Reclassification adjustment for losses realized in net income as a result of the discontinuance of cash flow hedges
206
(7,694)
Total comprehensive income (loss)
5,244
(11,984)
Decrease in unearned ESOP shares
500
(227)
(367)
1,542
1,175
(4)
Balance at March 31, 2006
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.6
FIRST COMMONWEALTH FINANCIAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIESCONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited)(Dollars in thousands)
For the 3 MonthsEnded March 31,
Operating Activities
Net income....................................................
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Provision for credit losses ................................
Depreciation and amortization...............................
2,858
2,794
Net gains on sales of assets................................
(152)
(833)
Income from increase in cash surrender value of bank owned life insurance...............................
(1,375)
(1,321)
Decrease in interest receivable...............................
1,012
69
Decrease in interest payable..................................
(466)
(807)
Increase (decrease) in income taxes payable...................
(1,856)
7,418
Net decrease in loans held for sale...........................
723
52
Change in deferred taxes......................................
532
(3,366)
Other-net.....................................................
(5,983)
(4,762)
Net cash provided by operating activities.................
9,139
16,207
Investing Activities
Transactions with securities held to maturity:
Proceeds from maturities and redemptions....................
1,233
4,709
Purchases...................................................
(9,948)
Transactions with securities available for sale:
Proceeds from sales.........................................
17,239
17,636
109,779
112,800
(24,170)
(103,114)
Proceeds from sales of other assets...........................
3,160
3,421
Net decrease in interest-bearing bank deposits................
82
1,668
Net increase in loans.........................................
(32,763)
(44,281)
Purchases of premises and equipment...........................
(3,330)
(4,119)
Net cash provided (used) by investing activities............
71,230
(21,228)
Financing Activities
Repayments of other long-term debt............................
(5,600)
(5,497)
Discount on dividend reinvestment plan purchases..............
Dividends paid................................................
(11,964)
(11,528)
Net increase in Federal funds purchased.......................
93,075
52,750
Net decrease in other short-term borrowings...................
(157,314)
(79,589)
Net increase (decrease) in deposits...........................
(814)
47,207
Proceeds from sale of treasury stock..........................
972
217
Net cash provided (used) by financing activities............
(81,872)
3,339
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents...................
(1,503)
(1,682)
Cash and cash equivalents at January 1........................
86,130
79,591
Cash and cash equivalents at March 31.........................
77,909
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.7
FIRST COMMONWEALTH FINANCIAL CORPORATION AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIESNOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSMarch 31, 2006(Unaudited)
NOTE 1 Management RepresentationThe consolidated financial statements include the accounts of First Commonwealth Financial Corporation and its subsidiaries ("First Commonwealth"). All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated. The accounting and reporting policies of First Commonwealth conform with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates, assumptions and judgments that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual realized amounts could differ from those estimates. In the opinion of management, the unaudited interim consolidated financial statements include all adjustments (consisting of only normal recurring adjustments) necessary for a fair statement of financial position as of March 31, 2006, and the results of operations for the three month periods ended March 31, 2006 and 2005, and statements of cash flows and changes in shareholders' equity for the three month periods ended March 31, 2006 and 2005. The results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2006 and 2005, are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the full year or any other interim period. These interim financial statements should be read in conjunction with First Commonwealth's 2005 Annual Report on Form 10-K which is available on the First Commonwealth's website at http://www.fcbanking.com. First Commonwealth's website also provides additional information of interest to investors and clients, including other regulatory filings made to the Securities and Exchange Commission, press releases, historical stock prices, dividend declarations and corporate governance, as well as information about products and services offered by First Commonwealth.NOTE 2 Cash Flow Disclosures (Dollar amounts in thousands)
Cash paid during the first three months of the year for:
Interest
38,800
31,513
Income Taxes
3,750
Noncash investing and financing activities:
ESOP loan reductions
214
ESOP borrowings
4,000
Loans transferred to other real estate owned and repossessed assets
1,205
1,405
Gross decrease in market value adjustment to securities available for sale
(12,154)
(28,101)
Gross increase (decrease) in market value adjustment of derivatives instruments
317
(980)
Treasury stock reissued for business combination
203
NOTE 3 Comprehensive Income DisclosuresThe following table identifies the related tax effects allocated to each component of other comprehensive income in the Statements of Changes in Shareholders' Equity (Dollar amounts in thousands):
March 31, 2005
Pre-taxAmount
Tax(Expense)Benefit
Net ofTaxAmount
Unrealized losses on securities:
Unrealized holding losses arising during the period
(12,091)
4,232
(27,632)
9,671
Less: reclassification adjustment for gains realized in net income
(63)
22
(469)
164
Unrealized losses on derivatives used in cash flow hedging relationships:
343
Less: reclassification adjustment for losses realized in net income as a result of the discontinuance of cash flow hedges
(111)
Other comprehensive loss
(11,837)
4,143
(29,081)
10,178
NOTE 4 Accounting for Stock Options Granted
Prior accounting guidelines permitted two alternate methods of accounting for stock-based compensation: the intrinsic value method of APB Opinion No. 25 ("APB 25"), "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees," and the fair value method of FASB Statement No. 123 ("FAS No. 123"), "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation." In December 2002, the FASB issued Statement No. 148 ("FAS No. 148"), "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation-Transition and Disclosure." FAS No. 148 did not amend FAS No. 123 to require companies to account for employee stock options using the fair value method but required all companies with stock-based compensation to provide additional disclosures, regardless of whether they accounted for9
NOTE 4 Accounting for Stock Options Granted (continued)
that compensation using the fair value method of FAS No. 123 or the intrinsic value method of APB 25. As permitted under FAS No. 123, First Commonwealth had elected to use the intrinsic value method to measure stock-based compensation under APB 25 and to disclose in a footnote to the financial statements, net income and earnings per share determined as if the fair value methodology of FAS No. 123 had been implemented. No stock-based employee compensation expense was reflected in First Commonwealth's net income as reported in the Consolidated Statements of Income because all stock options granted under First Commonwealth's plan had an exercise price equal to the market value of the underlying common stock on the date of the grant.In December 2004, the FASB issued FASB Statement No.123 (Revised) ("FAS No. 123(R)"), "Share-Based Payment." FAS No. 123(R) replaces FAS No. 123 and supersedes APB 25. FAS No. 123(R) requires companies to measure compensation costs for all share-based payments including employee stock options using the fair value method. FAS No. 123(R) applies to new awards and to awards modified, repurchased or cancelled beginning on January 1, 2006. Public companies that used the fair value based method for either recognition or disclosure under FAS No. 123, will apply FAS No. 123(R) using a modified prospective application. Under the modified prospective application, compensation cost is recognized on or after the required effective date for the portion of the outstanding awards for which the requisite service has not yet been rendered, based on the grant-date fair value of those awards calculated under FAS No. 123 for either recognition or pro forma disclosures. According to FAS No. 123(R), the grant-date fair value of stock options will be recognized as compensation expense in the company's income statement over the requisite service period or the vesting period.As of December 31, 2005, First Commonwealth did not have any outstanding options for which the requisite service had not already been rendered. In addition, First Commonwealth's stock-based compensation plan expired on October 15, 2005; therefore, no additional options were granted during the first three months of 2006.A summary of the status of First Commonwealth's outstanding stock options as of March 31, 2006 and changes for the years ending on that date is presented below:
Shares
WeightedAverageExercisePrice
Outstanding at beginning of year
2,164,421
10.63
Granted
Exercised
(105,282)
9.24
Forfeited
(24,882)
14.69
Outstanding at end of year
2,034,257
10.66
Exercisable at end of year
10
NOTE 4 Accounting for Stock Options Granted (continued)The weighted-average remaining contractual life on these options is 4.9 years.The following table illustrates the effect on net income and earnings per share if First Commonwealth had applied the fair value recognition provisions of FAS No. 123 to stock-based employee compensation for the three-month period ended March 31, 2005(Dollar amounts in thousands, except per share data):
Net Income, as reported
Deduct: Total stock-based employee compensation expense determined under fair value based method for all awards, net of related tax effects
(43)
Pro forma net income
15,176
Earnings per share:
Basic - as reported
Basic - pro forma
Diluted - as reported
Diluted - pro forma
Average shares outstanding
Average shares outstanding assuming dilution
NOTE 5 Restructuring ChargesDuring the third and fourth quarters of 2005, First Commonwealth recorded restructuring charges of $5,437 thousand. These charges included $700 thousand related to an Executive Officer who executed his right to receive severance payments and benefits under a management contract, as well as one-time termination benefits of $4,737 thousand in connection with First Commonwealth's reorganization initiative. One-time termination benefits include severance payments, hospitalization costs and payroll taxes. No additional charges related to this reorganization plan are expected in future periods. The restructuring charges were for 72 employees whose positions were eliminated as part of the reorganization initiative.The following is a summary of the restructuring liability (Dollar amounts in thousands):
Restructuring liability as of January 1, 2005
Accrual related to management contract
700
Accrual related to reorganization initiative
4,737
One-time benefit payments during 2005
(2,122)
Restructuring liability as of December 31, 2005
3,315
One-time benefit payments during 2006
(2,202)
Restructuring liability as of March 31, 2006
1,113
11
NOTE 6 Variable Interest Entities
In January 2003, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation No. 46 ("FIN 46"), "Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities," and in December 2003, issued FIN 46 (Revised 2003) ("FIN 46R"). FIN 46R clarified some of the provisions of FIN 46 and exempted certain entities from the original requirements of FIN 46. As defined by FIN 46 a variable interest entity ("VIE") is a corporation, partnership, trust or any other legal structure used for business purposes that either (a) does not have equity investors with voting rights or (b) has equity investors that do not provide sufficient financial resources for the entity to support its activities. Under FIN 46R, an entity that holds a variable interest in a VIE is required to consolidate the VIE if the entity is subject to a majority of the risk of loss from the VIE's activities, is entitled to receive a majority of the entity's residual returns or both. As part of its community reinvestment initiatives, First Commonwealth invests in qualified affordable housing projects as a limited partner. First Commonwealth receives federal affordable housing tax credits and rehabilitation tax credits for these limited partnership investments. First Commonwealth's maximum potential exposure to these partnerships is $4,809 thousand, consisting of the limited partnership investments as of March 31, 2006. Based on FIN 46R, First Commonwealth has determined that these investments will not be consolidated but continue to be accounted for under the equity method whereby First Commonwealth's portion of partnership losses are recognized as incurred. NOTE 7 Guarantees
Standby letters of credit are conditional commitments issued by First Commonwealth to guarantee the performance of a customer to a third party. The contract or notional amount of these instruments reflects the maximum amount of future payments that could be lost under the guarantees if there were a total default by the guaranteed parties without consideration of possible recoveries under recourse provisions or from collateral held or pledged. In addition, many of these commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon; therefore, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements. The table below identifies the notional amounts of these guarantees at March 31, 2006 (Dollar amounts in thousands):
Financial standby letters of credit
16,390
Performance standby letters of credit
4,451
The current notional amounts outstanding above include financial standby letters of credit of $2,620 thousand and performance standby letters of credit of $103 thousand issued during the first quarter of 2006. There is currently no liability recorded on First Commonwealth's balance sheet related to the above letters of credit. 12
NOTE 8 Other-Than-Temporary Impairment of InvestmentsThe following table presents the gross unrealized losses and fair values at March 31, 2006 by investment category and time frame for which the loss has been outstanding (Dollar amounts in thousands):
Less Than 12 Months
12 Months or More
Total
Description of Securities
FairValue
Unrealized Losses
U.S. Treasury Obligations
2,960
(32)
U.S. Government Agency Obligations
44,500
(678)
197,074
(3,509)
241,574
(4,187)
U.S. Government Agency CMO and MBS
419,705
(8,105)
547,216
(25,717)
966,921
(33,822)
Corporate Securities
23,006
(376)
18,823
(223)
41,829
(599)
Municipal Securities
48,607
(766)
672
(29)
49,279
(795)
Asset Backed Securities
943
(15)
Total Debt Securities
536,761
(9,940)
766,745
(29,510)
1,303,506
(39,450)
Common Stock
150
(6)
Total Securities
536,911
(9,946)
1,303,656
(39,456)
Management does not believe any individual loss as of March 31, 2006 represents an other-than-temporary impairment. The unrealized losses are predominantly attributable to changes in interest rates and not from the deterioration of the creditworthiness of the issuer. Management has both the intent and ability to hold the securities represented in the table for a time necessary to recover the amortized cost.NOTE 9 Subsequent EventOn April 27, 2006, First Commonwealth announced the execution of a definitive agreement to acquire Laurel Capital Group, Inc. ("Laurel Capital"), headquartered in Allison Park, Pennsylvania. Under the terms of the agreement, Laurel Capital shareholders will be entitled to receive $28.25 in cash, an equivalent value of First Commonwealth common stock or a combination of cash and First Commonwealth stock in exchange for their shares of Laurel Capital common stock, subject to proration to ensure that 70% of the aggregate merger consideration is paid in First Commonwealth common stock and 30% in cash. The definitive agreement was unanimously approved by the Boards of Directors of First Commonwealth and Laurel Capital. The merger is expected to be completed during the third quarter of 2006, subject to customary conditions, including the receipt of regulatory approvals and the approval of Laurel Capital shareholders. 13
NOTE 10 Post Retirement Benefit Plan of Acquired CompanyEmployees of the former Southwest Bank and GA Financial, Inc. were covered by a post retirement benefit plan. The net periodic benefit cost of this plan as of March 31 was as follows (Dollar amounts in thousands):
Service cost
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation
61
55
Amortization of transition obligation
1
(Gain) Loss amortization
(1)
Net periodic benefit cost
77
This is an unfunded post retirement plan. Future payments will only consist of benefit payments for life and health insurance premiums for plan participants.The Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003 (the "Act") introduced a prescription drug benefit under Medicare Part D. The Act also introduced a federal subsidy to sponsors of retiree health care benefit plans that provide a prescription drug benefit that is at least actuarially equivalent to Medicare Part D. The postretirement plans of First Commonwealth are provided through insurance coverage; therefore, First Commonwealth will not receive a direct federal subsidy. The preceding measure of the net periodic postretirement benefit cost assumes that First Commonwealth will not receive the subsidy due to the relatively small number of retirees. NOTE 11 New Accounting Pronouncements In May 2005, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 154 ("FAS 154"), "Accounting Changes and Error Corrections - a replacement of APB Opinion No. 20 and FASB Statement No. 3." As it states in the title, FAS 154 replaces APB Opinion No. 20, "Accounting Changes," and FASB Statement No. 3, "Reporting Accounting Changes in Interim Financial Statements." FAS 154 applies to all voluntary changes in accounting principle and changes the requirements for the accounting for and reporting of a change in accounting principle. Unlike APB Opinion No. 20, FAS 154 requires changes in accounting principle to have retrospective application to the financial statements from prior periods to which the change applies unless it is impracticable. FAS 154 was effective for accounting changes and corrections of errors made in fiscal years beginning after December 31, 2005. The implementation of FAS 154 did not have an impact on First Commonwealth's financial condition or results of operations.14
FIRST COMMONWEALTH FINANCIAL CORPORATION AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIESMANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITIONAND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This discussion and the related financial data are presented to assist in the understanding and evaluation of the consolidated financial condition and results of operations of First Commonwealth Financial Corporation including its subsidiaries ("First Commonwealth"). In addition to historical information, this discussion and analysis, as well as the notes to the consolidated financial statements, contain forward-looking statements (as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995), which reflect management's beliefs and expectations based on information currently available and may contain the words "expect," "estimate," "project," "anticipate," "should," "intend," "probability," "risk," "target," and similar expressions. These forward-looking statements are inherently subject to significant risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to: anticipated cost savings resulting from the recent corporate restructuring initiative, the timing and magnitude of changes in interest rates, changes in general economic and financial market conditions, First Commonwealth's ability to effectively carry out its business plans, changes in regulatory or legislative requirements, changes in competitive conditions and continuing consolidation of the financial services industry. Although management believes the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, actual results could differ materially. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which reflect management's analysis only as of the date of this report. First Commonwealth undertakes no obligation to publicly revise or update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date of this report.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
First Three Months of 2006 as Compared to the First Three Months of 2005
Net income for the first three months of 2006 was $12.9 million compared to $15.2 million for the same period of 2005. Basic and diluted earnings per share were $0.19 for the first quarter of 2006 and $0.22 for the first quarter of 2005.The following is an analysis of the impact of changes in net income on diluted earnings per share:
Net income per share, as of March 31, 2005
Increase (decrease) from changes in:
Net interest income
(0.05)
0.01
Security transactions
(0.01)
Service charges on deposits
(0.02)
0.03
0.02
Net income per share, as of March 31, 2006
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)First Three Months of 2006 as Compared to the First Three Months of 2005(continued)Return on average assets was 0.88% and return on average equity was 9.95% for the first quarter of 2006 compared to 1.00% and 11.48%, respectively, for the first quarter of 2005. The decrease in net income was primarily the result of the decrease in net interest income.Net Interest IncomeNet interest income, the most significant component of earnings, is the amount by which interest income generated from earning assets exceeds interest expense on liabilities. Net interest income decreased $3.5 million for the first quarter of 2006 compared to the first quarter of 2005 as average earning assets decreased by $227.8 million or 4.0% compared to 2005 averages. Net interest margin (net interest income, on a fully tax-equivalent basis, as a percentage of average earning assets) was 3.31% for the first three months of 2006 compared to 3.41% for the same period of 2005. The decline in net interest margin was due primarily to funding costs increasing at a faster rate than yields on earning assets. The first quarter yield on earning assets (on a fully tax-equivalent basis) increased 55 basis points to 6.13% from 5.58% in the same period last year, while the cost of funds increased 74 basis points to 3.15% from 2.41% in last year's first quarter. The following is an analysis of the average balance sheets and net interest income for the three months ended March 31 (Dollar amounts in thousands):
Average Balance Sheets and Net Interest Analysis
AverageBalance
Income/Expense
YieldorRate (a)
Assets
Interest-earning assets:
Time deposits with banks
1,041
5.31%
964
3.08%
Tax free investment securities
280,673
7.16
270,945
7.03
Taxable investment securities
1,574,530
18,188
4.68
1,923,907
19,982
4.21
4,162
4.53
659
2.46
Loans, net of unearned income (b)(c)(d)
3,650,953
6.68
3,542,655
6.21
Total interest-earning assets
5,511,359
6.13
5,739,130
5.58
Noninterest-earning assets:
Cash
77,807
78,997
(40,282)
(42,024)
426,722
422,736
Total noninterest- earning assets
464,247
459,709
Total Assets
5,975,606
6,198,839
16
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)First Three Months of 2006 as Compared to the First Three Months of 2005(continued)
Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity
Interest-bearing liabilities:
Interest-bearing demand deposits (e)
558,100
1,913
1.39%
562,152
949
0.68%
Savings deposits (e)
1,179,984
4,982
1.71
1,261,576
3,647
1.17
Time deposits
1,773,440
16,489
3.77
1,580,456
11,906
3.06
630,035
4.10
916,021
Long-term debt
796,961
4.37
838,378
4.18
Total interest-bearing liabilities
4,938,520
3.15
5,158,583
2.41
Noninterest-bearing liabilities and capital:
Noninterest-bearing demand deposits (e)
480,733
478,653
28,770
24,158
Shareholders' equity
527,583
537,445
Total noninterest- bearing funding sources
1,037,086
1,040,256
Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity
Net Interest Income and Net Yield on Interest-Earning Assets
3.31%
3.41%
(a)
Yields on interest-earning assets have been computed on a tax equivalent basis using the 35% Federal income tax statutory rate.
(b)
Average balances include loans held for sale.
(c)
Income on nonaccrual loans is accounted for on the cash basis, and the loan balances are included in interest-earning assets.
(d)
Loan income includes net loan fees.
(e)
Average balances do not include reallocations from noninterest-bearing demand deposits and interest-bearing demand deposits into savings deposits which were made for regulatory purposes.
17
The following table shows the effect of changes in volumes and rates on interest income and interest expense (Dollar amounts in thousands):
Analysis of Changes in Net Interest Income
2006 Change From 2005
TotalChange
Change Due To Volume
Change Due To Rate (a)
6
166
169
(3)
(1,794)
(3,627)
1,833
42
21
Loans
5,723
1,658
4,065
4,144
(1,778)
5,922
Interest-bearing demand deposits
(7)
971
Savings deposits
1,335
(236)
1,571
4,583
1,454
3,129
806
(1,735)
2,541
(59)
(427)
368
7,629
(951)
8,580
(3,485)
(827)
(2,658)
(a) Changes in interest income or expense not arising solely as a result of volume or rate variances are allocated to rate variances due to interest sensitivity of consolidated assets and liabilities.
On a positive note, the net interest margin increased 11 basis point (0.11%) in the first quarter of 2006 compared to the 3.20% reported in the fourth quarter of 2005, due to the previously disclosed balance sheet changes that occurred during the fourth quarter of 2005.Interest and fees on loans increased $5.7 million for the first quarter of 2006 compared to 2005 levels for the same period as the average balance of loans increased by $108.3 million or 3.1%. The first quarter yield on loans increased by 47 basis points (0.47%) to 6.68% from the 6.21% reported in 2005. The increase in interest and fees on loans for the first quarter of 2006 was partially offset by a decrease in interest income on investment securities.18
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)First Three Months of 2006 as Compared to the First Three Months of 2005(continued)Interest and dividend income on investments decreased $1.6 million for the first quarter of 2006 compared to the first quarter of 2005. The decrease was largely due to volume decreases as average investments decreased $339.6 million or 15.5% for the first quarter of 2006 compared to the same period of 2005. Due to the relatively flat yield curve, First Commonwealth has limited the amount it has reinvested in investment securities that have matured or have been paid down. Additionally, First Commonwealth liquidated $100 million lower-yielding investment securities in the fourth quarter of 2005 to fund the sale of branches. The total yield on investments was 5.06% for the first three months of 2006 compared to 4.56% for the same period of 2005. Interest on deposits increased $6.9 million for the first quarter of 2006 compared to the same period of 2005. The increase was largely due to the increase in rates. Volumes were also slightly up over prior year levels despite the reduction of $126.0 million in deposits related to branch sales in 2005. Deposit costs were 2.38% for the first quarter of 2006 compared to 1.72% for the first quarter of 2005, an increase of 66 basis points (0.66%). Yields were up in all of the deposit categories. Average total deposits increased 2.8% in the first three months of 2006 when compared to the same period of 2005. During its management of deposit levels and mix, First Commonwealth continues to evaluate the cost of time deposits compared to alternative funding sources as it balances its goals of providing clients with the competitive rates they are looking for while also minimizing First Commonwealth's cost of funds. Interest expense on short-term borrowings increased $806 thousand for the first three months of 2006 compared to the same period of 2005 as a result of increases due to rate which were partially offset by decreases due to volume. The cost of short-term borrowings for the 2006 period increased by 164 basis points (1.64%) compared to 2005 costs of 2.46%. The average balance of short-term borrowings for the first quarter of 2006 decreased $286.0 million or 31.2% over averages for the prior year. Interest expense on long-term debt decreased $59 thousand for the first quarter of 2006 compared to the corresponding period of 2005. Decreases due to volume were partially offset by increases due to rate. Average long-term debt for the first three months of 2006 decreased by $41.4 million or 4.9% compared to 2005 averages. Yields on long-term debt for the first quarter of 2006 increased by 19 basis points (0.19%) compared to the first quarter of 2005. First Commonwealth continues to analyze its exposure to any concentration of maturities of long-term debt in any one year and the associated risks.19
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)First Three Months of 2006 as Compared to the First Three Months of 2005(continued)Provision for Credit Losses
The provision for credit losses is an amount added to the allowance against which credit losses are charged. The amount of the provision is determined by management based upon its assessment of the size and quality of the loan portfolio and the adequacy of the allowance in relation to the risks inherent within the loan portfolio. The provision for credit losses was $908 thousand for the first three months of 2006 compared to $1.7 million for the first three months of 2005. The analysis of the Adequacy for the Allowance of Loan Loss as of March 31, 2006, showed continuing improvement in the credit quality of classified loans on the primary watch list. First Commonwealth believes that the allowance for credit losses is adequate at the present time. Net charge-offs against the allowance for credit losses increased by $370 thousand for the first three months of 2006 compared to the same period of 2005. Increases in net charge-offs were primarily in the commercial and commercial real estate loan categories. The provision for credit losses as a percentage of net charge-offs was 38.10% at March 31, 2006, compared to 86.64% at March 31, 2005. See the "Credit Review" section for any analysis of the quality of the loan portfolio.20
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)First Three Months of 2006 as Compared to the First Three Months of 2005(continued)Below is an analysis of the consolidated allowance for credit losses for the three month periods ended March 31, 2006 and 2005 (Dollar amounts in thousands):
Balance January 1,
39,492
41,063
Loans charged off:
Commercial, financial and agricultural
1,618
1,254
Real estate-commercial
226
56
Real estate-residential
337
489
Loans to individuals
597
538
Lease financing receivables
24
Total loans charged off
2,802
2,361
Recoveries of previously charged off loans:
299
155
119
158
Total recoveries
419
348
Net charge offs
2,383
2,013
Provision charged to operations
Balance March 31,
38,017
40,794
Noninterest Income
Net securities gains were $63 thousand during the first three months of 2006 compared to $485 thousand during the first three months of 2005. Service charges on deposits, which continue to be First Commonwealth's most significant component of noninterest fee income, increased $329 thousand for the first three months of 2006 compared to the corresponding period of 2005. Increases in nonsufficient funds (or "NSF") fees continue to drive the increase in service charges on deposits. NSF fees increased $395 thousand for the first quarter of 2006 as compared to the first quarter of 2005. The increase in NSF fees is due to the continuing growth of the High Performance Checking products for consumer and business clients. In addition, First Commonwealth increased the NSF fee for 2006 from $25 an item to $29 per item. Management strives to implement reasonable fees for services and closely monitors collection of those fees.21
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued) First Three Months of 2006 as Compared to the First Three Months of 2005(continued) Other changes in noninterest income during the first three months of 2006 compared to the same period of 2005 included increases in card related interchange income in the amount of $211 thousand. This increase was offset by decreases in merchant discount income in the amount of $839 thousand and decreases in insurance commission in the amount of $121 thousand. Card related interchange income includes income on debit, credit and ATM cards that are issued to consumers and/or businesses. The card related interchange income growth was favorably affected by additional volume related to card usage. The decrease in merchant discount income was due to the sale of the merchant services business in the second quarter of 2005. Other income for the first three months of 2006 decreased $425 thousand from the $2.0 million reported for the first three months of 2005 primarily due to losses on the sale of other assets, including loans and other real estate owned, in the amount of $413 thousand. 22
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)First Three Months of 2006 as Compared to the First Three Months of 2005(continued)Noninterest ExpenseNoninterest expense was $35.6 million for the first three months of 2006 reflecting an increase of $200 thousand from the 2005 level of $35.4 million. The most significant increase during the 2006 period was salaries and employee benefit costs which increased $1.1 million or 5.8%. Salaries accounted for $322 thousand of the increase while employee benefits accounted for $737 thousand. Salaries, adjusted for $353 thousand in severance charges that were recorded in the first quarter of 2006 were slightly less than the amount reported in the comparable period last year. The most significant employee benefit increase was unemployment compensation insurance which was related to the organizational restructuring and related personnel changes. Unemployment compensation rates have been affected by the large number of employees terminated during 2004 and 2005, as part of First Commonwealth's organizational restructuring, realignment initiatives and cost containment efforts. Full time equivalent employees were 1,522 as of the end of the first quarter of 2006 compared to 1,621 for the same time in 2005. First Commonwealth continues to evaluate its current menu of employee benefits to provide a competitive benefits package while also managing costs. Net occupancy expense increased $410 thousand for the first quarter of 2006 over 2005 levels. The increase was primarily the result of an adjustment to building rental expense due to an ongoing monitoring of leases. First Commonwealth continues to actively evaluate its branch delivery network to optimize client service in existing branches and to continue expansion into densely populated growth markets. During the first quarter of 2006, First Commonwealth continued its branch expansion plans as it began construction on two new branch offices in the Pittsburgh-area market as well as completed two significant renovations on existing branches. The execution of these initiatives may impact occupancy and other expenses in future periods.Other expenses included decreases in data processing expense and furniture and equipment expense in the amounts of $144 thousand and $103 thousand, respectively. The decrease in data processing expense was due in part to the sale of the merchant services business. The decrease in furniture and equipment expense was largely due to a decrease in depreciation expense on furniture and equipment and computer software.Other operating expenses for the 2006 period were $7.4 million reflecting a decrease of $1.1 million from the 2005 amount of $8.5 million. The most significant decreases were recorded in plastic card interchange expenses ($697 thousand) and advertising expenses ($209 thousand). The plastic card interchange expense was eliminated due to the 2005 sale of the merchant services business. Advertising expenses were higher in 2005 due in large part to new promotions for a variety of deposit and loan products. Income tax expense decreased $1.7 million for the first quarter of 2006 compared to the first quarter of 2005. First Commonwealth's effective tax23
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)First Three Months of 2006 as Compared to the First Three Months of 2005(continued)rate was 15.1% for the first three months of 2006 compared to 20.9% for the corresponding period of 2005. Pretax income for the first three months of 2006 period was $4.0 million less than it was for the same period in 2005. This reduction in pretax income allowed the effect of nontaxable income and tax credits to have a larger impact on the effective tax rate in 2006. LIQUIDITYLiquidity is a measure of First Commonwealth's ability to efficiently meet normal cash flow requirements of both borrowers and depositors. In the ordinary course of business, funds are generated from the banking subsidiary's core deposit base and the maturity or repayment of earning assets, such as securities and loans. As an additional secondary source, short-term liquidity needs may be provided through the use of overnight Federal funds purchased, borrowings through use of lines available for repurchase agreements and borrowings from the Federal Reserve Bank. Additionally, First Commonwealth's banking subsidiary is a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank and may borrow under overnight and term borrowing arrangements. The sale of earning assets may also provide an additional source of liquidity. In addition to the previously described funding sources, First Commonwealth also has the ability to access the capital markets.Liquidity risk stems from the possibility that First Commonwealth may not be able to meet current or future financial obligations or may become overly reliant on alternative funding sources. First Commonwealth maintains a liquidity risk management policy to manage this risk. This policy identifies the primary sources of liquidity, establishes procedures for monitoring and measuring liquidity and quantifies minimum liquidity requirements based on board approved limits. The policy also includes a liquidity contingency plan to address funding needs to maintain liquidity under a variety of business conditions. First Commonwealth's liquidity position is monitored by the Asset/Liability Management Committee.First Commonwealth's long-term liquidity source is a large core deposit base and a strong capital position. Core deposits are the most stable source of liquidity a bank can have due to the long-term relationship with a deposit customer. The following table shows a breakdown of the components of Fist Commonwealth's interest-bearing deposits as of March 31, 2006 and December 31, 2005:
March 31,2006
December 31,2005
NOW and Super NOW accounts
98,998
94,325
Savings and MMDA accounts
1,628,313
1,661,482
1,769,266
1,749,101
Total interest-bearing deposits
LIQUIDITY (continued)At March 31, 2006, total interest-earning assets were $5,476.1 million, a decrease of $90.0 million from the $5,566.1 million recorded at December 31, 2005. Total loans increased $27.8 million for the first three months of 2006 while investment securities decreased $116.2 million for the same period.Marketable securities that First Commonwealth holds in its investment portfolio are an additional source of liquidity. These securities are classified as "securities available for sale" and while First Commonwealth does not have specific intentions to sell these securities they have been designated as "available for sale" because they may be sold for the purpose of obtaining future liquidity, for management of interest rate risk or as part of the implementation of tax management strategies. As of March 31, 2006, securities available for sale had an amortized cost of $1,763.8 million and an approximate fair value of $1,737.9 million.The following table shows a breakdown of loans by categories as of March 31, 2006 and December 31, 2005:
Commercial, financial, agricultural and other
763,405
729,962
Real estate loans:
Construction and land development
74,145
78,279
1-4 family dwellings
1,207,583
1,213,223
Other real estate
995,357
987,798
Loans to individuals for household, family and other personal expenditures
608,573
610,648
Leases, net of unearned income
3,122
4,468
Subtotal
3,652,185
3,624,378
Totals loans and leases
3,652,087
3,624,259
The table above includes loans held for sale. First Commonwealth's auto lease portfolio continues to decline since the discontinuation of its automobile leasing activities during 2003.
25
Interest SensitivityMarket risk is the risk of loss arising from adverse changes in the fair value of financial instruments due to changes in interest rates, currency exchange rates or equity prices. First Commonwealth's market risk is composed primarily of interest rate risk. Interest rate risk results principally from timing differences in the repricing of assets and liabilities, changes in the relationship of rate indices and the potential exercise of free standing or embedded options.The objective of interest rate sensitivity management is to maintain an appropriate balance between the stable growth of income and the risks associated with maximizing income through interest sensitivity imbalances. While no single number can accurately describe the impact of changes in interest rates on net interest income, interest rate sensitivity positions, or "gaps," when measured over a variety of time periods, can be informative.An asset or liability is considered to be interest-sensitive if the rate it yields or bears is subject to change within a predetermined time period. If interest-sensitive assets ("ISA") exceed interest-sensitive liabilities ("ISL") during the prescribed time period, a positive gap results. Conversely, when ISL exceed ISA during a time period, a negative gap results.The cumulative gap at the 365-day repricing period was negative in the amount of $1,257.5 million or 21.15% of total assets at March 31, 2006. A positive gap tends to indicate that earnings will be impacted favorably if interest rates rise during the period and negatively when interest rates fall during the time period. A negative gap tends to indicate that earnings will be affected inversely to interest rate changes. In other words, as interest rates fall, a negative gap should tend to produce a positive effect on earnings, and when interest rates rise, a negative gap should tend to affect earnings negatively.The primary components of ISA include adjustable rate loans and investments, loan repayments, investment maturities and money market investments. The primary components of ISL include maturing certificates of deposit, money market deposits, savings deposits, NOW accounts and short-term borrowings.26
Interest Sensitivity (continued) The following table lists the amounts and ratios of assets and liabilities with rates or yields subject to change within the periods indicated as of March 31, 2006, and December 31, 2005 (Dollar amounts in thousands):
0-90 Days
91-180 Days
181-365 Days
Cumulative0-365 Days
1,234,540
192,372
370,738
1,797,650
Investments
177,365
69,920
159,155
406,440
Other interest-earning assets
Total interest-sensitive assets
1,412,296
262,292
529,893
2,204,481
Certificates of deposit
346,825
220,868
362,687
930,380
Other deposits
1,727,311
Borrowings
711,471
67,173
25,639
804,283
Total interest-sensitive liabilities
2,785,607
288,041
388,326
3,461,974
Gap
(1,373,311)
(25,749)
141,567
(1,257,493)
ISA/ISL
0.51
0.91
1.36
0.64
Gap/Total assets
23.10%
0.43%
2.38%
21.15%
1,223,588
204,682
359,406
1,787,676
179,227
115,495
159,963
454,685
2,048
1,404,863
320,177
519,369
2,244,409
465,223
189,534
288,933
943,690
1,755,808
711,185
4,657
49,338
765,180
2,932,216
194,191
338,271
3,464,678
(1,527,353)
125,986
181,098
(1,220,269)
0.48
1.65
1.54
0.65
25.34%
2.09%
3.01%
20.25%
27
Interest Sensitivity (continued)Although the periodic gap analysis provides management with a method of measuring current interest rate risk, it only measures rate sensitivity at a specific point in time, and as a result may not accurately predict the impact of changes in general levels of interest rates or net interest income. Therefore, to more precisely measure the impact of interest rate changes on First Commonwealth's net interest income, management simulates the potential effects of changing interest rates through computer modeling. The income simulation model used by First Commonwealth captures all assets, liabilities, and off-balance sheet financial instruments, accounting for significant variables that are believed to be affected by interest rates. These variables include prepayment speeds on mortgage loans and mortgage backed securities, cash flows from loans, deposits and investments and balance sheet growth assumptions. The model also captures embedded options, such as interest rate caps/floors or call options, and accounts for changes in rate relationships as various rate indices lead or lag changes in market rates. First Commonwealth is then better able to implement strategies which would include an acceleration of a deposit rate reduction or lag in a deposit rate increase. The repricing strategies for loans would be inversely related.First Commonwealth's asset/liability management policy guidelines limit interest rate risk exposure for the succeeding twelve-month period. Simulations are prepared under the base case where interest rates remain flat and most likely case where interest rates are defined using projections of economic factors. Additional simulations are produced estimating the impact on net interest income of a gradual 200 basis point (2.00%) movement upward or downward over a 12 month time frame which cannot result in more than a 5.0% decline in net interest income when compared to the base case. The analysis at March 31, 2006, indicated that a 200 basis point (2.00%) increase in interest rates would decrease net interest income 140 basis points (1.40%) below the base case scenario and a 200 basis point (2.00%) decrease in interest rates would decrease net interest income by 86 basis points (0.86%) below the base case scenario, over the next twelve months, both within policy limits.First Commonwealth's "Asset/Liability Management Committee" ("ALCO") is responsible for the identification, assessment and management of interest rate risk exposure, liquidity, capital adequacy and investment portfolio position. The primary objective of the ALCO process is to ensure that First Commonwealth's balance sheet structure maintains prudent levels of risk within the context of currently known and forecasted economic conditions and to establish strategies which provide First Commonwealth with appropriate compensation for the assumption of those risks. The ALCO attempts to mitigate interest rate risk through the use of strategies such as asset sales, asset and liability pricing and matched maturity funding. First Commonwealth's senior management establishes the ALCO strategies. First Commonwealth terminated its interest rate swaps during the fourth quarter of 2005; however, the ALCO continues to evaluate the use of future derivative instruments to protect against the risk of adverse price or interest rate movements on the value of certain assets and liabilities. 28
CREDIT REVIEWThe following table identifies amounts of loan losses and nonperforming loans. A loan is placed in nonaccrual status at the time when ultimate collectibility of principal or interest, wholly or partially, is in doubt. Past due loans are those which are contractually past due 90 days or more as to interest or principal payments but are well secured and in the process of collection. Renegotiated loans are those loans which terms have been renegotiated to provide a reduction or deferral of principal or interest as a result of the deteriorating financial position of the borrower and are in compliance with the restructured terms.
(Dollar amounts in thousands)
At March 31,
Nonperforming Loans:
Loans on nonaccrual basis
14,599
11,200
Past due more than 90 days
14,305
16,846
Renegotiated loans
170
182
Total nonperforming loans
29,074
28,228
1,463
Loans outstanding at end of period(a)
3,554,441
Average loans outstanding (year-to-date)(a)
Nonperforming loans a as percentage of total loans
0.80%
0.79%
Net charge-offs
Net charge-offs as a percentage of average loans outstanding (annualized)
0.26%
0.23%
Provision for credit losses as a percentage of net charge-offs
38.10%
86.64%
Allowance for credit losses as a percentage of average loans outstanding
1.04%
1.15%
Allowance for credit losses as a percentage of end-of-period loans outstanding
Allowance for credit losses as a percentage of nonperforming loans
130.76%
144.52%
(a) includes loans held for sale
29
CREDIT REVIEW (continued)First Commonwealth considers a loan to be impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that the bank will be unable to collect principal or interest due according to the contractual terms of the loan. Loan impairment is measured based on the present value of expected cash flows discounted at the loan's effective interest rate or, as a practical expedient, at the loan's observable market price or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. Payments received on impaired loans are applied against the recorded investment in the loan. For loans other than those that First Commonwealth expects repayment through liquidation of the collateral, when the remaining recorded investment in the impaired loan is less than or equal to the present value of the expected cash flows, income is recorded on a cash basis. Impaired loans include loans on a nonaccrual basis and renegotiated loans.The following table identifies impaired loans, and information regarding the relationship of impaired loans to the reserve for credit losses at March 31, 2006, and March 31, 2005 (Dollar amounts in thousands):
Recorded investment in impaired loans at end of period
14,769
11,382
Year to date average balance of impaired loans
12,754
11,899
Allowance for credit losses related to impaired loans
2,288
2,362
Impaired loans with an allocation of the allowance for credit losses
8,915
7,244
Impaired loans with no allocation of the allowance for credit losses
5,854
4,138
Year to date income recorded on impaired loans on a cash basis
190
Other than those described above, there are no material credits that management has serious doubts as to the borrower's ability to comply with the present loan repayment terms. Additionally, the portfolio is well diversified and as of March 31, 2006, there were no significant concentrations of credit.Nonperforming loans (including loans past due 90 days but still accruing) at March 31, 2006, increased $846 thousand compared to 2005 levels. Past due loans declined $2.5 million, but were offset by a $3.4 million increase in nonaccrual loans. The change in nonaccrual loans resulted primarily from one commercial credit relationship. The remaining recorded balance of that relationship is believed to be well secured, and includes a partial government agency guarantee. Nonperforming loans as a percent of total loans increased only one basis point from 0.79% at March 31, 2005, to 0.80% at March 31, 2006.30
CREDIT REVIEW (continued)The provision for credit losses for the first quarter of 2006 decreased to $908 thousand from $1,744 thousand in the same period last year. The analysis of the Adequacy for the Allowance of Loan Loss as of March 31, 2006, showed continuing improvement in the credit quality of classified loans on the primary watch list. First Commonwealth believes that the allowance for credit losses is adequate at the present time.First Commonwealth's loan portfolio continues to be monitored by senior management to identify potential portfolio risks and detect potential credit deterioration in the early stages. This process includes close monitoring of watch list credits for workout progress or deterioration, as well as evaluating the status of significant nonperforming credits and loan loss adequacy. Credit risk is mitigated during the loan origination process through the use of sound underwriting policies and collateral requirements. Management also attempts to minimize loan losses by analyzing and modifying collection techniques on a periodic basis. Management believes that the allowance for credit losses and nonperforming loans remained safely within acceptable levels.First Commonwealth maintains an allowance for credit losses at a level deemed sufficient to absorb losses which are inherent in the loan and lease portfolios at each balance sheet date. Management reviews the adequacy of the allowance on a quarterly basis to ensure that the provision for credit losses has been charged against earnings in an amount necessary to maintain the allowance at a level that is appropriate based on management's assessment of probable estimated losses. First Commonwealth's methodology for assessing the appropriateness of the allowance for credit losses consists of several key elements. These elements include an assessment of individual problem loans, delinquency and loss experience trends, and other relevant factors. While allocations are made to specific loans and pools of loans, the total allowance is available for all loan losses.While First Commonwealth consistently applies a comprehensive methodology and procedure, allowance for credit loss methodologies incorporate management's current judgment about the credit quality of the loan portfolio, as well as collection probabilities for problem credits. Although management considers the allowance for credit losses to be adequate based on information currently available, additional allowance for credit loss provisions may be necessary due to changes in management estimates and assumptions about asset impairment, information about borrowers that indicates changes in the expected future cash flows or changes in economic conditions. The allowance for credit losses and the provision for credit losses are significant elements of First Commonwealth's financial statements, therefore management periodically reviews the processes and procedures utilized in determining the allowance for credit losses to identify potential enhancements to these processes, including development of additional management information systems to ensure that all relevant factors are appropriately considered in the allowance analysis. In addition, First Commonwealth maintains a system of internal controls which are independently monitored and tested by internal audit and loan review staff to ensure that the loss estimation model is maintained in accordance with internal policies and procedures, as well as generally accepted accounting principles. 31
CAPITAL RESOURCESEquity capital stood at $515.7 million at March 31, 2006, a decrease of $5.3 million compared to December 31, 2005. Dividends declared reduced equity by $12.0 million during the first three months of 2006. The retained net income of $954 thousand remained in permanent capital to fund future growth and expansion. The market value adjustments to securities available for sale and the terminated loan swaps decreased equity by $7.7 million for the period. Payment by First Commonwealth's Employee Stock Ownership Plan ("ESOP") to reduce debt it incurred to acquire the First Commonwealth's common stock for future distribution as employee compensation increased equity by $500 thousand. Amounts paid to fund the discount on reinvested dividends reduced equity by $227 thousand during the first three months of 2006 while the proceeds from the reissuance of treasury shares to fund stock options exercised increased equity by $972 thousand during 2006. Equity capital was also impacted during 2006 by an increase of $203 thousand from the reissuance of treasury shares to fund contingent payments related to the acquisition of First Commonwealth Financial Advisors, which consummated in 2002. This payment of First Commonwealth's common stock was the final of four scheduled annual contingent payments.A strong capital base provides First Commonwealth with a foundation to expand lending, to protect depositors and to provide for growth while protecting against future uncertainties. The evaluation of capital adequacy depends on a variety of factors, including asset quality, liquidity, earnings history and prospects, internal controls and management ability. In consideration of these factors, management's primary emphasis with respect to First Commonwealth's capital position is to maintain an adequate and stable ratio of equity to assets.The Federal Reserve Board has issued risk-based capital adequacy guidelines which are designed principally as a measure of credit risk. These guidelines require: (1) at least 50% of a banking organization's total capital be common and other "core" equity capital ("Tier I Capital"); (2) assets and off-balance-sheet items be weighted according to risk; (3) the total capital to risk-weighted assets ratio be at least 8%; and (4) a minimum leverage ratio of Tier I capital to average total assets.32
CAPITAL RESOURCES (continued)
The minimum leverage ratio is not specifically defined, but is generally expected to be 3-5 percent for all but the most highly rated banks, as determined by a regulatory rating system.The table below presents First Commonwealth's capital position at March 31, 2006:
Amount(in thousands)
Percent ofAdjusted Assets
Tier I Capital
$ 500,708
11.8%
Risk-Based Requirement
170,332
4.0
Total Capital
538,725
12.7
340,665
8.0
Minimum Leverage Capital
500,708
8.6
Minimum Leverage Requirement
175,146
3.0
For an institution to qualify as well capitalized under regulatory guidelines, Tier I, Total and Leverage Capital ratios must be at least 6.0%, 10.0%, and 5.0%, respectively. At March 31, 2006, First Commonwealth's banking subsidiary exceeded those requirements.ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISKInformation appearing in Item 2 of this report under the caption "Interest Sensitivity" is incorporated herein by reference in response to this item.33
FIRST COMMONWEALTH FINANCIAL CORPORATION AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
First Commonwealth carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of the company's management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of First Commonwealth's disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e). Based upon that evaluation, First Commonwealth's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that First Commonwealth's disclosure controls and procedures are effective. In addition, First Commonwealth's management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, also conducted an evaluation of the company's internal control over financial reporting to determine whether any changes occurred during the fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, First Commonwealth's internal control over financial reporting. No such changes were identified in connection with this evaluation.
First Commonwealth's management is responsible for establishing and maintaining effective disclosure controls and procedures, including maintaining effective controls over financial reporting designed to produce reliable financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Disclosure controls and procedures are controls and other procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by First Commonwealth in the reports that the company files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission's rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by First Commonwealth in the reports that the company files under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to First Commonwealth's management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
FIRST COMMONWEALTH FINANCIAL CORPORATION AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIESPART II - OTHER INFORMATION
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
There were no material legal proceedings to which First Commonwealth or its subsidiaries are a party, or of which any of their property is the subject. All legal proceedings presently pending or threatened against First Commonwealth or its subsidiaries arose in the normal course of business and, in the opinion of management, are not expected to have a material adverse effect on the consolidated operations or financial position of First Commonwealth and its subsidiaries.
RISK FACTORS
There were no material changes to the Risk Factors described in Item 1A in First Commonwealth's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2005.
UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
Not applicable
DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES
SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
OTHER INFORMATION
EXHIBITS
Exhibit 31.1 Chief Executive Officer Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Exhibit 31.2 Chief Financial Officer Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Exhibit 32.1 Chief Executive Officer Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Exhibit 32.2 Chief Financial Officer Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
FIRST COMMONWEALTH FINANCIAL CORPORATION(Registrant)
DATED: May 4, 2006
/s/Joseph E. O'Dell
Joseph E. O'Dell, President and Chief Executive Officer
/s/John J. Dolan
John J. Dolan, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer