Quarterly Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the Quarterly Period Ended March 31, 2023
o
Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
Commission File No. 0-15950
FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Nevada
37-1078406
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
100 W. University Ave.
Champaign, Illinois
61820
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip code)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (217) 365-4544
N/A
(Former name, former address, and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class
Trading Symbol (s)
Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, $.001 par value
BUSE
The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC
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. Yesþ No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yesþ No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filerþ
Accelerated filer o
Non-accelerated filer o
Smaller reporting company ☐
Emerging growth company ☐
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes o No þ
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.
We use acronyms, abbreviations, and other terms throughout this Quarterly Report, as defined in the glossary below:
Term
Definition
2020 Equity Plan
First Busey's 2020 Equity Incentive Plan
ACL
Allowance for credit losses
Annual Report
Annual report filed with the SEC on Form 10-K pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act
AOCI
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
ASC
Accounting Standards Codification
ASU
Accounting Standards Update
Basel III
2010 capital accord adopted by the international Basel Committee on Banking Supervision
Basel III Rule
Regulations promulgated by U.S. federal banking agencies – the OCC, the Federal Reserve, and the FDIC – to both enforce implementation of certain aspects of the Basel III capital reforms and effect certain changes required by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act
bps
basis points
CAC
Cummins-American Corp.
CARES Act
Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act
CECL
ASU 2016-13, codified as ASC Topic 326 “Financial Instruments-Credit Losses,” which established the Current Expected Credit Losses methodology for measuring credit losses on financial instruments
COVID-19
Coronavirus disease 2019
DSU
Deferred stock unit
ESPP
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Exchange Act
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended
Fair value
The price that would be received to sell an asset, or paid to transfer a liability, in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date, as defined in ASC Topic 820 “Fair Value Measurement”
FASB
Financial Accounting Standards Board
FDIC
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
Federal Reserve
Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System
FHLB
Federal Home Loan Bank
First Busey
First Busey Corporation, together with its wholly-owned consolidated subsidiaries; also, “Busey,” the “Company,” “we,” “us,” and “our”
First Busey Risk Management
First Busey Risk Management, Inc.
FirsTech
FirsTech, Inc.
FOMC
Federal Open Market Committee
GAAP
U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles
GSB
Glenview State Bank
Interagency Statement
Interagency Statement on Loan Modifications and Reporting for Financial Institutions Working with Customers Affected by the Coronavirus, issued on March 22, 2020, and revised on April 7, 2020
LIBOR
London Interbank Offered Rate
LOCOM
Lower of Cost or Market, an accounting approach under which assets are carried at amortized historical cost less write-offs and downward fair value adjustments, as may be applicable
Nasdaq
National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotations
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (Unaudited)
(dollars in thousands)
Three Months Ended March 31,
2023
2022
Net income
$
36,786
$
28,439
OCI:
Unrealized/Unrecognized gains (losses) on debt securities:
Net unrealized holding gains (losses) on debt securities available for sale, net of taxes of $(8,749), and $29,726, respectively
21,944
(74,556)
Net unrealized gains (losses) on debt securities transferred to held to maturity from available for sale, net of taxes of $0, and $13,812, respectively
—
(34,644)
Reclassification adjustment for realized (gains) losses on debt securities available for sale included in net income, net of taxes of $1, and $30, respectively
(3)
(76)
Amortization of unrecognized losses on securities transferred to held to maturity, net of taxes of $(483), and $(252), respectively
1,210
631
Net change in unrealized/unrecognized gains (losses) on debt securities
23,151
(108,645)
Unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges:
Net unrealized holding gains (losses) on cash flow hedges, net of taxes of $(1,214), and $1,931, respectively
3,050
(4,845)
Reclassification adjustment for realized (gains) losses on cash flow hedges included in net income, net of taxes of $(516), and $143, respectively
1,293
(357)
Net change in unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges
4,343
(5,202)
Net change in AOCI
27,494
(113,847)
Total comprehensive income (loss)
$
64,280
$
(85,408)
See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
Note 1: Significant Accounting Policies
Nature of Operations
First Busey Corporation, a Nevada corporation organized in 1980, is a $12.3 billion financial holding company headquartered in Champaign, Illinois. Our common stock is traded on The Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol “BUSE.”
The Company operates and reports its business in three segments: Banking, FirsTech, and Wealth Management.
•The Banking operating segment provides a full range of banking services to individual and corporate customers through its banking center network in Illinois; the St. Louis, Missouri metropolitan area; southwest Florida; and Indianapolis, Indiana.
•The FirsTech operating segment provides comprehensive and innovative payment technology solutions including online, mobile, and voice-recognition bill payments; money management and credit card networks; direct debit services; lockbox remittance processing for payments made by mail; and walk-in payments. FirsTech also provides additional tools to help clients with billing, reconciliation, bill reminders, and treasury services.
•The Wealth Management operating segment provides a full range of asset management, investment, brokerage, fiduciary, philanthropic advisory, tax preparation, and farm management services to individuals, businesses, and foundations.
These unaudited consolidated financial statements and related notes should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements included in our 2022 Annual Report. These interim unaudited consolidated financial statements serve to update our 2022 Annual Report and may not include all information and notes necessary to constitute a complete set of financial statements.
We prepared these unaudited consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP. We have eliminated intercompany accounts and transactions. We have also reclassified certain prior year amounts to conform to the current period presentation. These reclassifications did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial condition or results of operations.
In our opinion, the unaudited consolidated financial statements reflect all normal, recurring adjustments needed to present fairly our results for the interim periods. The results of operations for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the full year or any other interim period.
Use of Estimates
In preparing the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP, the Company’s management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and the disclosures provided. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Material estimates which are particularly susceptible to significant change in the near term relate to the fair value of debt securities available for sale, fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in business combinations, goodwill, income taxes, and the determination of the ACL.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
Impact of Recently Adopted Accounting Standards
In March 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-02 “Financial Instruments—Credit Losses (Topic 326): Troubled Debt Restructurings and Vintage Disclosures,” which eliminates the TDR accounting model for creditors that have already adopted CECL. In lieu of the TDR accounting model, loan refinancing and restructuring guidance in ASC Subtopic 310-20-35-9 through 35-11 “Receivables—Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs—Subsequent Measurement—Loan Refinancing or Restructuring” will apply to all loan modifications, including those made for borrowers experiencing financial difficulty. This standard also enhances disclosure requirements related to certain loan modifications. Additionally, this standard introduces new requirements to disclose gross write-off information in the vintage disclosures of financing receivables by credit quality indicator and class of financing receivable by year of origination. This standard applies prospectively. For the transition method related to the recognition and measurement of TDRs, there is an option to apply a modified retrospective transition method, resulting in a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings in the period of adoption. This standard became effective for First Busey beginning January 1, 2023. Adoption of this standard did not have a material impact on our financial position or results of operations.
In March 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-01 “Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Fair Value Hedging—Portfolio Layer Method,” which replaces the current last-of-layer hedge accounting method with an expanded portfolio layer method that permits multiple hedged layers of a single closed portfolio. The scope of the portfolio layer method is also expanded to include non-prepayable financial assets. This update also provides additional guidance on the accounting for and disclosure of hedge basis adjustments that are applicable to the portfolio layer method, and specifies how hedge basis adjustments should be considered when determining credit losses for the assets included in the closed portfolio. Amendments related to hedge basis adjustments which are included in this standard apply on a modified retrospective basis by means of a cumulative-effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings on the initial application date. Amendments related to disclosure which are included in this standard may be applied on a prospective basis from the initial application date, or on a retrospective basis to each prior period presented after the date of adoption of the amendments in ASU 2017-12 “Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities.” This standard became effective for First Busey beginning January 1, 2023. Adoption of this standard did not have a material impact on our financial position or results of operations.
ASU 2021-08 “Business Combinations (Topic 805): Accounting for Contract Assets and Contract Liabilities from Contracts with Customers” requires measurement and recognition in accordance with ASC Topic 606 “Revenue from Contracts with Customers” for contract assets and contract liabilities acquired in a business combination. This update became effective for First Busey beginning January 1, 2023. This standard applies prospectively to all business combinations that occur on or after the date it is adopted. Adoption of this standard did not have an impact on our financial position or results of operations.
Recently Issued Accounting Standards Not Yet Adopted
In March 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-02 “Investments—Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323),” permitting an election to use the proportional amortization method to account for equity investments made primarily for the purpose of receiving income tax credits and other income tax benefits, regardless of the tax credit program from which the income tax credits are received, provided that certain conditions are met. The proportional amortization method results in the cost of the investment being amortized in proportion to the income tax credits and other income tax benefits received, with the amortization of the investment and the income tax credits being presented net in the income statement as a component of income tax expense. This standard must be applied on a retrospective or modified retrospective basis, and is applicable for First Busey beginning on January 1, 2024. Early adoption is permitted. First Busey is currently evaluating the potential effect on the Company’s financial position and results of operations.
In March 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-01 “Leases (Topic 842): Common Control Arrangements,” which requires amortization over the useful life of leasehold improvements (not the lease term) when the lease is between entities under common control, and any value of such leasehold improvements remaining at the end of the lease term is to be accounted for as a transfer between entities under common control. This standard may be adopted either prospectively, or retrospectively, and is effective for First Busey beginning January 1, 2024. Early adoption is permitted. First Busey is currently evaluating the potential effect on the Company’s financial position and results of operations.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
In June 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-03 “Fair Value Measurements (Topic 820): Fair Value Measurement of Equity Securities Subject to Contractual Sale Restrictions,” which clarifies that contractual restrictions on the sale of equity securities are not considered in measuring the fair value of those equity securities, and further that contractual sale restrictions cannot be recognized and measured as a separate unit of account. This standard applies prospectively, and is effective for First Busey beginning January 1, 2024. Early adoption is permitted. First Busey is currently evaluating the potential effect on the Company’s financial position and results of operations.
Subsequent Events
The Company has evaluated subsequent events for potential recognition and/or disclosure through the date the unaudited consolidated financial statements included in this Quarterly Report were issued. There were no significant subsequent events for the quarter ended March 31, 2023, through the filing date of these unaudited consolidated financial statements.
Note 2: Debt Securities
The Company's portfolio of debt securities includes both available for sale and held to maturity securities. The tables below provide the amortized cost, unrealized gains and losses, and fair values of debt securities summarized by major category (dollars in thousands):
As of March 31, 2023
Amortized Cost
Unrealized
Fair Value
Gross Gains
Gross Losses
Debt securities available for sale
U.S. Treasury securities
$
87,182
$
—
$
(2,550)
$
84,632
Obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
As of December 31, 2022
Amortized Cost
Unrealized
Fair Value
Gross Gains
Gross Losses
Debt securities available for sale
U.S. Treasury securities
$
117,805
$
—
$
(3,744)
$
114,061
Obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies
20,097
3
(321)
19,779
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
283,481
106
(26,075)
257,512
Asset-backed securities
489,558
—
(19,683)
469,875
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
124,423
—
(16,029)
108,394
Residential mortgage-backed securities
1,463,971
2
(220,717)
1,243,256
Corporate debt securities
273,118
33
(24,635)
248,516
Total debt securities available for sale
$
2,772,453
$
144
$
(311,204)
$
2,461,393
Amortized Cost
Unrecognized
Fair Value
Gross Gains
Gross Losses
Debt securities held to maturity
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
$
474,820
$
—
$
(63,738)
$
411,082
Residential mortgage-backed securities
443,492
—
(69,279)
374,213
Total debt securities held to maturity
$
918,312
$
—
$
(133,017)
$
785,295
Maturities of Debt Securities
Amortized cost and fair value of debt securities, by contractual maturity or pre-refunded date, are shown below. Mortgages underlying mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities may be called or prepaid; therefore, actual maturities could differ from the contractual maturities. All mortgage-backed securities were issued by U.S. government corporations and agencies (dollars in thousands):
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
Gains and Losses on Debt Securities Available for Sale
Realized gains and losses related to sales and calls of debt securities available for sale are summarized as follows (dollars in thousands):
Three Months Ended March 31,
2023
2022
Realized gains and losses on debt securities
Gross gains on debt securities
$
10
$
113
Gross (losses) on debt securities
(6)
(7)
Realized net gains (losses) on debt securities
$
4
$
106
Debt securities with carrying amounts of $764.9 million on March 31, 2023, and $746.7 million on December 31, 2022, were pledged as collateral for public deposits, securities sold under agreements to repurchase, and for other purposes as required.
Debt Securities in an Unrealized or Unrecognized Loss Position
The following information pertains to debt securities with gross unrealized or unrecognized losses, aggregated by investment category and the length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous loss position (dollars in thousands):
As of March 31, 2023
Less than 12 months
12 months or more
Total
Fair Value
Unrealized Losses
Fair Value
Unrealized Losses
Fair Value
Unrealized Losses
Debt securities available for sale
U.S. Treasury securities
$
964
$
(32)
$
83,668
$
(2,518)
$
84,632
$
(2,550)
Obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies
11,262
(223)
196
(8)
11,458
(231)
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
80,541
(755)
133,343
(20,035)
213,884
(20,790)
Asset-backed securities
16,954
(346)
452,193
(18,741)
469,147
(19,087)
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
7,634
(290)
101,193
(14,603)
108,827
(14,893)
Residential mortgage-backed securities
103,167
(5,778)
1,122,195
(194,821)
1,225,362
(200,599)
Corporate debt securities
17,362
(1,213)
209,280
(21,220)
226,642
(22,433)
Debt securities available for sale with gross unrealized losses
$
237,884
$
(8,637)
$
2,102,068
$
(271,946)
$
2,339,952
$
(280,583)
12 months or more
Total
Fair Value
Unrecognized Losses
Fair Value
Unrecognized Losses
Debt securities held to maturity
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
$
406,940
$
(63,198)
$
406,940
$
(63,198)
Residential mortgage-backed securities
373,713
(63,708)
373,713
(63,708)
Debt securities held to maturity with gross unrecognized losses
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
As of December 31, 2022
Less than 12 months
12 months or more
Total
Fair Value
Unrealized Losses
Fair Value
Unrealized Losses
Fair Value
Unrealized Losses
Debt securities available for sale
U.S. Treasury securities1
$
74
$
—
$
113,987
$
(3,744)
$
114,061
$
(3,744)
Obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies
19,603
(321)
—
—
19,603
(321)
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
166,147
(10,059)
75,217
(16,016)
241,364
(26,075)
Asset-backed securities
390,164
(15,648)
79,711
(4,035)
469,875
(19,683)
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
89,428
(12,623)
18,966
(3,406)
108,394
(16,029)
Residential mortgage-backed securities
366,221
(38,111)
876,668
(182,606)
1,242,889
(220,717)
Corporate debt securities
39,037
(5,079)
204,310
(19,556)
243,347
(24,635)
Debt securities available for sale with gross unrealized losses
$
1,070,674
$
(81,841)
$
1,368,859
$
(229,363)
$
2,439,533
$
(311,204)
Less than 12 months
12 months or more
Total
Fair Value
Unrecognized Losses
Fair Value
Unrecognized Losses
Fair Value
Unrecognized Losses
Debt securities held to maturity
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
$
58,065
$
(8,009)
$
353,017
$
(55,729)
$
411,082
$
(63,738)
Residential mortgage-backed securities
—
—
374,213
(69,279)
374,213
(69,279)
Debt securities held to maturity with gross unrecognized losses
$
58,065
$
(8,009)
$
727,230
$
(125,008)
$
785,295
$
(133,017)
___________________________________________
1.Unrealized losses for U.S. Treasury securities that have been in a continuous unrealized loss position for less than 12 months were insignificant, rounding to zero thousand.
Additional information about debt securities in an unrealized or unrecognized loss position is presented in the tables below (dollars in thousands):
As of March 31, 2023
Available for Sale
Held to Maturity
Total
Debt securities with gross unrealized or unrecognized losses, fair value
$
2,339,952
$
780,653
$
3,120,605
Gross unrealized or unrecognized losses on debt securities
280,583
126,906
407,489
Ratio of gross unrealized or unrecognized losses to debt securities with gross unrealized or unrecognized losses
12.0
%
16.3
%
13.1
%
Count of debt securities
1,058
55
1,113
Count of debt securities in an unrealized or unrecognized loss position
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
As of December 31, 2022
Available for Sale
Held to Maturity
Total
Debt securities with gross unrealized or unrecognized losses, fair value
$
2,439,533
$
785,295
$
3,224,828
Gross unrealized or unrecognized losses on debt securities
311,204
133,017
444,221
Ratio of gross unrealized or unrecognized losses to debt securities with gross unrealized or unrecognized losses
12.8
%
16.9
%
13.8
%
Count of debt securities
1,091
55
1,146
Count of debt securities in an unrealized or unrecognized loss position
1,032
55
1,087
Unrealized and unrecognized losses were related to changes in market interest rates and market conditions that do not represent credit-related impairments. The Company does not intend to sell securities that are in an unrealized or unrecognized loss position, and it is more likely than not that the Company will recover the amortized cost prior to being required to sell the debt securities. Full collection of the amounts due according to the contractual terms of the debt securities is expected; therefore, no ACL was recorded in relation to debt securities, and the impairment related to noncredit factors is recognized in AOCI, net of applicable taxes. As of March 31, 2023, the Company did not hold general obligation bonds of any single issuer, the aggregate of which exceeded 10% of the Company’s stockholders’ equity.
Note 3: Portfolio Loans
Loan Categories
The Company’s lending can be summarized in two primary categories: commercial and retail. Lending is further classified into five primary areas of loans: commercial loans, commercial real estate loans, real estate construction loans, retail real estate loans, and retail other loans. Distributions of the loan portfolio by loan category and class is presented in the following table (dollars in thousands):
As of
March 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
Commercial loans
Commercial
$
1,937,158
$
1,974,154
Commercial real estate
3,324,536
3,261,873
Real estate construction
554,009
530,469
Total commercial loans
5,815,703
5,766,496
Retail loans
Retail real estate
1,667,537
1,657,082
Retail other
300,568
302,124
Total retail loans
1,968,105
1,959,206
Total portfolio loans
7,783,808
7,725,702
ACL
(91,727)
(91,608)
Portfolio loans, net
$
7,692,081
$
7,634,094
Net deferred loan origination costs included in the balances above were $13.7 million as of March 31, 2023, compared to $14.0 million as of December 31, 2022. Net accretable purchase accounting adjustments included in the balances above reduced loans by $5.5 million as of March 31, 2023, and $5.9 million as of December 31, 2022. Commercial balances include loans originated under the PPP with an amortized cost of $0.8 million as of both March 31, 2023, and December 31, 2022.
The Company did not purchase any retail real estate loans during the three months ended March 31, 2023, or 2022.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
Pledged Loans
The Company had loans pledged to the FHLB and Federal Reserve for liquidity as set forth in the table below (dollars in thousands):
As of
March 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
Pledged loans
FHLB
$
5,065,913
$
5,095,448
Federal Reserve Bank
825,410
804,718
Total pledged loans
$
5,891,323
$
5,900,166
Risk Grading
The Company utilizes a loan grading scale to assign a risk grade to all of its loans. A description of the general characteristics of each grade is as follows:
•Pass – This category includes loans that are all considered acceptable credits, ranging from investment or near investment grade, to loans made to borrowers who exhibit credit fundamentals that meet or exceed industry standards.
•Watch – This category includes loans that warrant a higher-than-average level of monitoring to ensure that weaknesses do not cause the inability of the credit to perform as expected. These loans are not necessarily a problem due to other inherent strengths of the credit, such as guarantor strength, but have above average concern and monitoring.
•Special mention – This category is for “Other Assets Specially Mentioned” loans that have potential weaknesses, which may, if not checked or corrected, weaken the asset or inadequately protect the Company’s credit position at some future date.
•Substandard – This category includes “Substandard” loans, determined in accordance with regulatory guidelines, for which the accrual of interest has not been stopped. Assets so classified must have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses that jeopardize the liquidation of the debt. They are characterized by the distinct possibility that the Company will sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected.
•Substandard non-accrual – This category includes loans that have all the characteristics of a “Substandard” loan with additional factors that make collection in full highly questionable and improbable. Such loans are placed on non-accrual status and may be dependent on collateral with a value that is difficult to determine.
All loans are graded at their inception. Commercial lending relationships that are $1.0 million or less are usually processed through an expedited underwriting process. Most commercial loans greater than $1.0 million are included in a portfolio review at least annually. Commercial loans greater than $0.35 million that have a grading of special mention or worse are typically reviewed on a quarterly basis. Interim reviews may take place if circumstances of the borrower warrant a more frequent review.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
The following table is a summary of risk grades segregated by category and class of portfolio loans (dollars in thousands):
As of March 31, 2023
Pass
Watch
Special Mention
Substandard
Substandard Non-accrual
Total
Commercial loans
Commercial
$
1,624,656
$
208,613
$
42,827
$
55,652
$
5,410
$
1,937,158
Commercial real estate
2,888,970
362,187
43,195
24,623
5,561
3,324,536
Real estate construction
531,786
16,819
—
5,404
—
554,009
Total commercial loans
5,045,412
587,619
86,022
85,679
10,971
5,815,703
Retail loans
Retail real estate
1,649,407
11,722
503
2,206
3,699
1,667,537
Retail other
300,524
—
—
—
44
300,568
Total retail loans
1,949,931
1,949,931
11,722
503
2,206
3,743
1,968,105
Total portfolio loans
$
6,995,343
$
599,341
$
86,525
$
87,885
$
14,714
$
7,783,808
As of December 31, 2022
Pass
Watch
Special Mention
Substandard
Substandard Non-accrual
Total
Commercial loans
Commercial
$
1,668,495
$
201,758
$
46,540
$
51,187
$
6,174
$
1,974,154
Commercial real estate
2,851,709
326,455
43,526
34,539
5,644
3,261,873
Real estate construction
502,904
25,164
1
2,400
—
530,469
Total commercial loans
5,023,108
553,377
90,067
88,126
11,818
5,766,496
Retail loans
Retail real estate
1,639,599
10,520
1,338
2,529
3,096
1,657,082
Retail other
301,971
—
—
—
153
302,124
Total retail loans
1,941,570
1,941,570
10,520
1,338
2,529
3,249
1,959,206
Total portfolio loans
$
6,964,678
$
563,897
$
91,405
$
90,655
$
15,067
$
7,725,702
Risk grades of portfolio loans and net charge-offs are presented in the tables below by loan class, further sorted by origination year (dollars in thousands):
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
Past Due and Non-accrual Loans
An analysis of the amortized cost basis of portfolio loans that are past due and still accruing, or on a non-accrual status, is as follows (dollars in thousands):
As of March 31, 2023
Loans past due, still accruing
Non-accrual Loans
30-59 Days
60-89 Days
90+Days
Past due and non-accrual loans
Commercial loans:
Commercial
$
78
$
1
$
—
$
5,410
Commercial real estate
444
—
—
5,561
Past due and non-accrual commercial loans
522
1
—
10,971
Retail loans:
Retail real estate
3,120
1,169
472
3,699
Retail other
653
7
28
44
Past due and non-accrual retail loans
3,773
1,176
500
3,743
Total past due and non-accrual loans
$
4,295
$
1,177
$
500
$
14,714
As of December 31, 2022
Loans past due, still accruing
Non-accrual Loans
30-59 Days
60-89 Days
90+Days
Past due and non-accrual loans
Commercial loans:
Commercial
$
2
$
—
$
—
$
6,174
Commercial real estate
124
—
—
5,644
Past due and non-accrual commercial loans
126
—
—
11,818
Retail loans:
Retail real estate
4,709
1,239
673
3,096
Retail other
414
60
—
153
Past due and non-accrual retail loans
5,123
1,299
673
3,249
Total past due and non-accrual loans
$
5,249
$
1,299
$
673
$
15,067
Gross interest income recorded on 90+ days past due loans, and that would have been recorded on non-accrual loans if they had been accruing interest in accordance with their original terms, was $0.4 million and $0.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, and 2022, respectively. The amount of interest collected on those loans and recognized on a cash basis that was included in interest income was insignificant for the three months ended March 31, 2023, and was $0.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2022.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
Loan Modification Disclosures Pursuant to ASU 2022-02
The following table shows the amortized cost basis of loans that were modified during the three months ended March 31, 2023, for borrowers experiencing financial difficulty, disaggregated by class of financing receivable and type of concession granted (dollars in thousands):
As of March 31, 2023
Payment Deferral1
% of Total Class of Financing Receivable2
Term Extension3
% of Total Class of Financing Receivable
Loan class:
Commercial
$
489
—
%
$
25,155
1.3
%
Commercial real estate
—
—
%
12,698
0.4
%
Total of loans modified during the period4
$
489
—
%
$
37,853
0.5
%
___________________________________________
1.Loans with payment deferrals were modified to defer all principal payments until the end of the loan terms, which were shortened. Regular interest payments continue to be required during the deferral period.
2.Loans with payment deferrals represent an insignificant portion of of commercial loans and total loans, rounding to zero percent.
3.Modifications to extend loan terms also included, in most cases, interest rate increases during the extension period.
4.All modifications were for loans classified as substandard.
The following table summarizes the financial effects of loan modifications made during the three months ended March 31, 2023, for borrowers experiencing financial difficulty:
Weighted Average Term Extension
Loan class:
Commercial
9.1 months
Commercial real estate
5.8 months
Total financial effect
8.0 months
First Busey closely monitors the performance of the loans that are modified to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty to understand the effectiveness of its modification efforts.
The following table depicts the payment performance of loans modified on or after January 1, 2023, the date we adopted ASU 2022-02 (dollars in thousands):
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
TDR Disclosures Prior to the Adoption of ASU 2022-02
At December 31, 2022, performing TDR’s were $3.0 million and non-performing TDR’s were $0.5 million.
No loans were newly designated as TDRs during the three months ended March 31, 2022. There were no TDRs entered into during the 12 months ended March 31, 2022, that had subsequent defaults during the three months ended March 31, 2022. Gross interest income that would have been recorded in the three months ended March 31, 2022, if TDRs had performed in accordance with their original terms compared with their modified terms, was insignificant.
Collateral Dependent Loans
Management's evaluation as to the ultimate collectability of loans includes estimates regarding future cash flows from operations and the value of property, real and personal, pledged as collateral. These estimates are affected by changing economic conditions and the economic prospects of borrowers. Collateral dependent loans are loans in which repayment is expected to be provided solely by the underlying collateral and there are no other available and reliable sources of repayment. Loans are written down to the lower of cost or fair value of underlying collateral, less estimated costs to sell. The Company had $13.3 million and $14.0 million of collateral dependent loans secured by real estate or business assets as of March 31, 2023, and December 31, 2022, respectively.
Foreclosures
As of March 31, 2023, the Company had $1.1 million of residential real estate in the process of foreclosure. The Company follows Federal Housing Finance Agency guidelines on single-family foreclosures and real estate owned evictions on portfolio loans.
Loans Evaluated Individually
The Company evaluates loans with disparate risk characteristics on an individual basis. The following tables provide details of loans evaluated individually, segregated by loan category and class. The unpaid principal balance represents customer outstanding contractual principal balances excluding any partial charge-offs. Recorded investment represents the amortized cost of customer balances net of any partial charge-offs recognized on the loan. Average recorded investment is calculated using the most recent four quarters (dollars in thousands):
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
As of December 31, 2022
Unpaid Principal Balance
Recorded Investment
Average Recorded Investment
With No Allowance
With Allowance
Total
Related Allowance
Loans evaluated individually
Commercial loans:
Commercial
$
9,589
$
656
$
5,918
$
6,574
$
2,476
$
6,761
Commercial real estate
8,039
2,334
3,903
6,237
2,000
5,219
Real estate construction
247
247
—
247
—
260
Commercial loans evaluated individually
17,875
3,237
9,821
13,058
4,476
12,240
Retail loans:
Retail real estate
2,733
2,564
25
2,589
25
2,311
Retail loans evaluated individually
2,733
2,564
25
2,589
25
2,311
Total loans evaluated individually
$
20,608
$
5,801
$
9,846
$
15,647
$
4,501
$
14,551
Allowance for Credit Losses
Management estimates the ACL balance using relevant available information from internal and external sources relating to past events, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. Historical credit loss experience provides the basis for the estimation of expected credit losses. The cumulative loss rate used as the basis for the estimate of credit losses is comprised of the Company’s historical loss experience beginning in 2010. Due to the continued economic uncertainty in the markets in which the Company operates, the Company will continue to utilize a forecast period of 12 months with an immediate reversion to historical loss rates beyond this forecast period in its ACL estimate.
The following tables summarize activity in the ACL attributable to each class of loan. Allocation of a portion of the ACL to one class does not preclude its availability to absorb losses in other classes (dollars in thousands):
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
Note 4: Leases
Busey as the Lessee
The Company has operating leases consisting primarily of equipment leases and real estate leases for banking centers, ATM locations, and office space. The following table summarizes lease-related information and balances the Company reported in its unaudited Consolidated Balance Sheets for the periods presented (dollars in thousands):
As of
March 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
Lease balances
Right of use assets
$
12,291
$
12,829
Lease liabilities
12,515
12,995
Supplemental information
Year through which lease terms extend
2037
2037
Weighted average remaining lease term, in years
8.82 years
8.90 years
Weighted average discount rate
3.49
%
3.45
%
The following table represents lease costs and cash flows related to leases for the periods presented (dollars in thousands):
Three Months Ended March 31,
2023
2022
Lease costs
Operating lease costs
$
628
$
617
Variable lease costs
5
128
Short-term lease costs
6
4
Total lease cost1
$
639
$
749
Cash flows related to leases
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
Operating lease cash flows – Fixed payments
$
570
$
631
Operating lease cash flows – Liability reduction
479
585
Right of use assets obtained during the period in exchange for operating lease liabilities
4
55
___________________________________________
1.Lease costs are included in net occupancy and equipment expense in the Consolidated Statements of Income.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
The Company was obligated under noncancelable operating leases for office space and other commitments, as follows (dollars in thousands):
As of March 31, 2023
Rent commitments
Remainder of 2023
$
1,650
2024
1,933
2025
1,716
2026
1,441
2027
1,276
2028
1,255
Thereafter
5,477
Total undiscounted cash flows
14,748
Less: Amounts representing interest
2,233
Present value of net future minimum lease payments
$
12,515
Busey as the Lessor
Busey occasionally leases parking lots and office space to outside parties. Further, in connection with the acquisition of CAC in the second quarter of 2021, the Company acquired office buildings in Glenview, IL and Northbrook, IL, along with operating leases for space within these buildings that is rented to third parties. Revenues recorded in connection with these leases and reported in other income on our unaudited Consolidated Statements of Income are summarized as follows (dollars in thousands):
Three Months Ended March 31,
2023
2022
Rental income
$
191
$
230
Note 5: Deposits
The composition of deposits is as follows (dollars in thousands):
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
Additional information about our deposits is as follows (dollars in thousands):
As of
March 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
Brokered savings deposits and money market deposits
$
6,005
$
1,303
Brokered time deposits
278
275
Aggregate amount of time deposits with a minimum denomination of $100,000
630,529
416,445
Aggregate amount of time deposits with a minimum denomination that meets or exceeds the FDIC insurance limit of $250,000
200,898
120,377
Scheduled maturities of time deposits are as follows (dollars in thousands):
As of March 31, 2023
Time deposits by schedule of maturities
Remainder of 2023
$
474,277
2024
596,731
2025
42,344
2026
17,183
2027
13,746
2028
3,851
Thereafter
539
Time deposits
$
1,148,671
Note 6: Borrowings
Securities Sold Under Agreements to Repurchase
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase, which are classified as secured borrowings, generally mature daily. Securities sold under agreements to repurchase are reflected at the amount of cash received in connection with the transaction. The underlying securities are held by the Company’s safekeeping agent. The Company may be required to provide additional collateral based on fluctuations in the fair value of the underlying securities. Securities sold under agreements to repurchase were as follows (dollars in thousands):
As of
March 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase
$
210,977
$
229,806
Weighted average rate for securities sold under agreements to repurchase
2.44
%
1.91
%
Term Loan
On May 28, 2021, the Company entered into a Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, pursuant to which the Company has access to (i) a $40.0 million revolving line of credit with a termination date of April 30, 2022, and (ii) a $60.0 million term loan with a maturity date of May 31, 2026. The loans had an annual interest rate of 1.75% plus the one-month LIBOR rate. On April 30, 2022, the agreement was amended, effecting an extension of the termination date for the revolving line of credit to April 30, 2023, and providing for the transition from a LIBOR-indexed interest rate to a SOFR-indexed interest rate. Under the terms of the amendment, the loans now have an annual interest rate of 1.80% plus the one-month forward-looking term rate based on SOFR. On April 30, 2023, the agreement was further amended to extend the term for the revolving line of credit to April 30, 2024.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
Proceeds of the term loan were used to fund a part of the cash portion of the merger consideration related to the acquisition of CAC in the second quarter of 2021, and for general corporate purposes. As of March 31, 2023, there was no balance outstanding on the revolving credit facility and a total of $39.0 million outstanding on the term loan, of which $12.0 million was short-term and $27.0 million was long-term. The revolving credit facility incurs a non-usage fee based on any undrawn amounts. Quarterly payments on the term loan reduce the outstanding principal balance by $3.0 million each quarter.
Short-term Borrowings
First Busey’s short-term borrowings include loans maturing within one year of the loan origination date, as well as the current portion of long-term debt that is due within 12 months. Short-term borrowings are summarized as follows (dollars in thousands):
As of
March 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
Short-term borrowings
FHLB advances maturing in less than one year from date of origination, and the current portion of long-term FHLB advances due within 12 months
$
603,881
$
339,054
Term Loan, current portion due within 12 months
12,000
12,000
Total short-term debt
$
615,881
$
351,054
Funds borrowed from the FHLB, listed above, consisted of four notes with a weighted average interest rate of 4.81% and a weighted average maturity period of four days as of March 31, 2023, and four notes with a weighted average interest rate of 4.28% and a weighted average maturity period of five days as of December 31, 2022.
Federal funds purchased are short-term borrowings that generally mature between one day and 90 days. During the first quarter of 2023, the Company purchased federal funds to test operational availability to access funds if needed. The Company had no federal funds purchased as of March 31, 2023, or December 31, 2022.
Long-term Debt
First Busey’s long-term debt consists of loans maturing more than one year from the loan origination date, excluding the current portion that is due within 12 months. Long-term debt is summarized as follows (dollars in thousands):
As of
March 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
Long-term debt
Term Loan
$
27,000
$
30,000
Senior and Subordinated Notes
On June 1, 2020, the Company issued $125.0 million of fixed-to-floating rate subordinated notes that mature on June 1, 2030. The subordinated notes, which qualify as Tier 2 capital for First Busey, bear interest at an annual rate of 5.25% for the first five years after issuance and thereafter bear interest at a floating rate equal to a three-month benchmark rate plus a spread of 5.11%, as calculated on each applicable determination date. The subordinated notes are payable semi-annually on each June 1 and December 1 during the five-year fixed-term, and thereafter on March 1, June 1, September 1, and December 1 of each year, commencing on September 1, 2025. The subordinated notes have an optional redemption in whole or in part on any interest payment date on or after June 1, 2025. The subordinated notes are unsecured obligations of the Company.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
On June 2, 2022, the Company issued $100.0 million aggregate principal amount of 5.000% fixed-to-floating rate subordinated notes maturing June 15, 2032, which qualify as Tier 2 Capital for regulatory purposes. The price to the public for the subordinated notes was 100% of the principal amount of the subordinated notes. Interest on the subordinated notes will accrue at a rate equal to (i) 5.000% per annum from the original issue date to, but excluding, June 15, 2027, payable semiannually in arrears, and (ii) a floating rate per annum equal to a benchmark rate, which is expected to be the Three-Month Term SOFR (as defined in the subordinated notes), plus a spread of 252 basis points from and including, June 15, 2027, payable quarterly in arrears. The subordinated notes have an optional redemption in whole or in part on any interest payment date on or after June 15, 2027.
Unamortized debt issuance costs related to senior notes and subordinated notes are presented in the following table (dollars in thousands):
As of
March 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
Unamortized debt issuance costs
Subordinated notes issued in 2020
$
1,101
$
1,220
Subordinated notes issued in 2022
1,654
1,742
Total unamortized debt issuance costs
$
2,755
$
2,962
Note 7: Regulatory Capital
The Company and its subsidiary bank are subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by federal banking agencies. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory—and possibly additional discretionary—actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements. Capital amounts and classification also are subject to qualitative judgments by regulators about components, risk weightings, and other factors.
Banking regulations identify five capital categories for insured depository institutions: well capitalized, adequately capitalized, undercapitalized, significantly undercapitalized, and critically undercapitalized. As of March 31, 2023, and December 31, 2022, all capital ratios of the Company and its subsidiary bank exceeded well capitalized levels under the applicable regulatory capital adequacy guidelines. Management believes that no events or changes have occurred subsequent to March 31, 2023, that would change this designation.
Current Expected Credit Loss Model
On March 27, 2020, the FDIC and other federal banking agencies published an interim final rule that provides those banking organizations adopting CECL during 2020 with the option to delay for two years the estimated impact of CECL on regulatory capital and to phase in the aggregate impact of the deferral on regulatory capital over a subsequent three-year period. On August 26, 2020, the CECL final rule was finalized and was substantially similar to the interim final rule. Under this final rule, because the Company has elected to use the deferral option, the regulatory capital impact of our transition adjustments recorded on January 1, 2020, arising from the adoption of CECL was deferred for two years, until January 1, 2022. In addition, 25 percent of the ongoing impact of CECL on our ACL, retained earnings, and average total consolidated assets from January 1, 2020, through the end of the two-year deferral period, each as reported for regulatory capital purposes, has been added to the deferred transition amounts (“adjusted transition amounts”) and deferred for the two-year period. At the conclusion of the two-year period the adjusted transition amounts began to be phased-in for regulatory capital purposes at a rate of 25 percent per year, with the phased-in amounts included in regulatory capital at the beginning of each year.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
As of December 31, 2022
Actual
Minimum Capital Requirement
Minimum To Be Well Capitalized
Amount
Ratio
Amount
Ratio
Amount
Ratio
Common equity Tier 1 capital to risk weighted assets
First Busey
$
1,081,686
11.96
%
$
406,980
4.50
%
$
587,861
6.50
%
Busey Bank
$
1,306,716
14.49
%
$
405,736
4.50
%
$
586,063
6.50
%
Tier 1 capital to risk weighted assets
First Busey
$
1,155,686
12.78
%
$
542,640
6.00
%
$
723,521
8.00
%
Busey Bank
$
1,306,716
14.49
%
$
540,981
6.00
%
$
721,308
8.00
%
Total capital to risk weighted assets
First Busey
$
1,457,994
16.12
%
$
723,521
8.00
%
$
904,401
10.00
%
Busey Bank
$
1,384,024
15.35
%
$
721,308
8.00
%
$
901,635
10.00
%
Leverage ratio of Tier 1 capital to average assets
First Busey
$
1,081,686
9.45
%
$
489,124
4.00
%
N/A
N/A
Busey Bank
$
1,306,716
10.72
%
$
487,541
4.00
%
$
609,426
5.00
%
Capital Conservation Buffer
In July 2013, U.S. federal banking authorities approved the Basel III Rule for strengthening international capital standards. The Basel III Rule introduced a capital conservation buffer, composed entirely of Common Equity Tier 1 Capital, which is added to the minimum risk-weighted asset ratios. The capital conservation buffer is not a minimum capital requirement; however, banking institutions with a ratio of Common Equity Tier 1 Capital to risk-weighted assets below the capital conservation buffer will face constraints on dividends, equity repurchases, and discretionary bonus payments based on the amount of the shortfall. In order to refrain from restrictions on dividends, equity repurchases, and discretionary bonus payments, banking institutions must maintain minimum ratios of (i) Common Equity Tier 1 Capital to risk-weighted assets of at least 7.0%, (ii) Tier 1 Capital to risk-weighted assets of at least 8.5%, and (iii) Total capital to risk-weighted assets of at least 10.5%.
Note 8: Stock-Based Compensation
Stock Options
The Company has outstanding stock options assumed from acquisitions. A summary of the status of, and changes in, the Company's stock option awards for the three months ended March 31, 2023, follows:
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
2020 Equity Plan
Under the terms of the 2020 Equity Plan, the Company has granted RSU, PSU, and DSU awards. Upon vesting and delivery, shares are expected (though not required) to be issued from treasury. There were 200,774 shares available for issuance under the 2020 Equity Plan as of March 31, 2023.
RSU Awards
The Company grants RSUs to members of management periodically throughout the year. Each RSU is equivalent to one share of the Company’s common stock. These units have requisite service periods ranging from one year to five years, subject to accelerated vesting upon eligible retirement from the Company. Recipients earn quarterly dividend equivalents on their respective units which entitle the recipients to additional units. Therefore, dividends earned each quarter compound based upon the updated unit balances.
On March 22, 2023, under the terms of the 2020 Equity Plan, the Company granted 224,316 RSUs to members of management. The grant date fair value of the award totaled $4.6 million and will be recognized as compensation expense over the requisite service period ranging from one year to five years. The terms of these awards included an accelerated vesting provision upon eligible retirement from the Company, after a one-year minimum requisite service period. Subsequent to the requisite service period, the awards will become 100% vested.
A summary of changes in the Company’s RSU awards for the three months ended March 31, 2023, is as follows:
RSU Awards
Shares
Weighted- Average Grant Date Fair Value
Nonvested at December 31, 2022
1,096,931
$
23.61
Granted
224,316
20.44
Dividend equivalents earned
11,509
22.85
Vested
(4,308)
25.79
Forfeited
(6,863)
20.88
Nonvested at March 31, 2023
1,321,585
23.07
PSU Awards
The Company grants PSUs, which are restricted stock units that are subject to certain performance criteria, to members of management periodically throughout the year. Each PSU is equivalent to one share of the Company’s common stock. The number of units that ultimately vest will be determined based on the achievement of the market or other performance goals, subject to accelerated service-based vesting conditions upon eligible retirement from the Company.
On March 22, 2023, the Company granted a target of 104,643 PSUs with a maximum award of 167,429 units. The actual number of units issued at the vesting date could range from 0% to 160% of the initial grant, depending on attaining a market-based total stockholder return performance goal. The estimated grant date fair value of the award is $2.1 million and will be recognized in compensation expense over the performance period ending December 31, 2025. The Company expects to finalize the grant date fair value of these awards in the second quarter of 2023.
On March 22, 2023, the Company granted a target of 104,643 PSUs with a maximum award of 167,429 units. The actual number of units issued at the vesting date could range from 0% to 160% of the initial grant, depending on attaining an adjusted return on average tangible common equity performance goal. The grant date fair value of the award is $2.1 million and will be recognized in compensation expense over the performance period ending December 31, 2025. The actual amount of compensation expense recognized may vary, subject to achievement of the performance goal.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
Further, on March 22, 2023, the Company granted a target of 15,045 PSUs with a maximum award of 30,090 units. The actual number of units issued at the vesting date could range from 0% to 200% of the initial grant, depending on attaining a performance goal based upon the compounded annual revenue growth rate of the FirsTech operating segment. The grant date fair value of the award is $0.3 million and will be recognized in compensation expense over the performance period ending December 31, 2025, subject to achievement of the performance goal.
A summary of changes in the Company’s PSU awards for the three months ended March 31, 2023, is as follows:
PSU Awards
Shares1
Weighted- Average Grant Date Fair Value
Nonvested at December 31, 2022
285,351
$
25.40
Granted
224,331
20.44
Dividend equivalents earned
92
22.85
Vested
(92)
22.85
Forfeited
(36,345)
25.24
Nonvested at March 31, 2023
473,337
23.06
___________________________________________
1.Shares for PSU awards represent target shares at grant date.
DSU Awards
The Company grants DSUs, which are restricted stock units with a deferred settlement date, to its directors and advisory directors. Each DSU is equivalent to one share of the Company’s common stock. DSUs vest over a one-year period following the grant date. These units generally are subject to the same terms as RSUs under the 2020 Equity Plan, except that, following vesting, settlement occurs within 30 days following the earlier of separation from the board or a change in control of the Company. After vesting and prior to delivery, these units will continue to earn dividend equivalents.
On March 22, 2023, the Company granted 41,548 DSUs to directors and advisory directors. The grant date fair value of the award totaled $0.8 million and will be recognized as compensation expense over the requisite service period of one year. Subsequent to the requisite service period, the awards will become 100% vested.
A summary of changes in the Company’s DSU awards for the three months ended March 31, 2023, is as follows:
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
2021 Employee Stock Purchase Plan
The First Busey Corporation 2021 ESPP was approved at the Company’s 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders and details can be found within First Busey’s Definitive Proxy Statement filed with the SEC on April 8, 2021. The purpose of the 2021 ESPP is to provide a means through which our employees may acquire a proprietary interest in the Company by purchasing shares of our common stock at a 15% discount through voluntary payroll deductions, to assist us in retaining the services of our employees and securing and retaining the services of new employees, and to provide incentives for our employees to exert maximum efforts toward our success.
The 2021 ESPP initially reserved for issuance and purchase an aggregate of 600,000 shares of the Company’s common stock. The first offering under the 2021 ESPP began on July 1, 2021. There were 481,865 shares available for issuance under the 2021 ESPP as of March 31, 2023.
Stock-based Compensation Expense
The Company did not record any stock option compensation expense for the three months ended March 31, 2023, or 2022. As of March 31, 2023, the Company did not have any unrecognized stock option compensation expense.
The Company recognized compensation expense related to nonvested RSU, PSU, and DSU awards, as well as the 2021 ESPP, as summarized in the table below (dollars in thousands):
Three Months Ended March 31,
2023
2022
Stock-based compensation expense
RSU awards
$
1,020
$
1,176
PSU awards1
360
412
DSU awards
196
226
2021 ESPP
93
95
Total stock-based compensation expense
$
1,669
$
1,909
___________________________________________
1.Expense for market-based PSU awards represents amounts based on target shares at grant date. Expense for performance-based PSU awards represents amounts based on target shares at grant date, adjusted for performance expectations as of the date indicated.
Unamortized compensation expense related to nonvested RSU, PSU, and DSU awards is summarized in the table below (dollars in thousands):
As of
March 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
Unamortized stock-based compensation
RSU awards
$
12,005
$
8,570
PSU awards1
8,632
4,279
DSU awards
829
175
Total unamortized stock-based compensation
$
21,466
$
13,024
Weighted average period over which expense is to be recognized
2.8 years
2.5 years
___________________________________________
1.Unamortized expense for market-based PSU awards represents amounts based on target shares at grant date. Unamortized expense for performance-based PSU awards represents amounts based on target shares at grant date, adjusted for performance expectations as of the date indicated.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
Note 9: Outstanding Commitments and Contingent Liabilities
Legal Matters
The Company is a party to legal actions which arise in the normal course of its business activities. In the opinion of management, the ultimate resolution of these matters is not expected to have a material effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.
Credit Commitments and Contingencies
A summary of the contractual amount of the Company’s exposure to off-balance-sheet risk relating to the Company’s commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit follows (dollars in thousands):
The Company utilizes interest rate swap agreements as part of its asset liability management strategy to help manage its interest rate risk position. Additionally, the Company enters into derivative financial instruments, including interest rate lock commitments issued to residential loan customers for loans that will be held for sale, forward sales commitments to sell residential mortgage loans to investors, and interest rate swaps with customers and other third parties. See “Note 11: Fair Value Measurements” for further discussion of the fair value measurement of such derivatives.
To secure its obligations under derivative contracts, the Company pledged cash and held collateral as follows (dollars in thousands):
As of
March 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
Cash pledged to secure obligations under derivative contracts
$
37,827
$
38,609
Collateral held to secure obligations under derivative contracts
22,650
29,830
Derivative Instruments Designated as Hedges
The Company entered into derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges. For a derivative instrument that is designated and qualifies as a cash flow hedge, the change in fair value of the derivative instrument is reported as a component of OCI and reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. Changes in fair value of components excluded from the assessment of effectiveness are recognized in current earnings.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
Interest Rate Swaps Designated as Cash Flow Hedges
Interest rate swaps with notional amounts totaling $350.0 million as of both March 31, 2023, and December 31, 2022, were designated as cash flow hedges. The Company entered into one $50.0 million interest rate swap to hedge the risks of variability in cash flows for future interest payments attributable to changes in the contractually specified 3-month LIBOR benchmark interest rate on the Company’s junior subordinated debt owed to unconsolidated trusts (Debt Swap). In addition, the Company entered into one $300.0 million receive fixed pay floating interest rate swap to reduce the Company’s asset sensitivity (Loan Swap). Duration was added to our loan portfolio by fixing a portion of floating prime based loans. Interest rates had risen above their historical lows allowing the Company to lock in a portion of its loan portfolio to reduce asset sensitivity while creating a more stable margin in a volatile rate market. These hedges were determined to be highly effective during the period, and the Company expects its hedges to remain highly effective during the remaining terms of the swaps. Changes in fair value were recorded net of tax in OCI.
A summary of the interest-rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges is presented below (dollars in thousands):
As of
Location
March 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
Debt Swap
Notional amount
$
50,000
$
50,000
Weighted average fixed pay rates
1.79
%
1.79
%
Weighted average variable 3-month LIBOR receive rates
4.87
%
4.77
%
Weighted average maturity, in years
1.46 years
1.71 years
Loan Swap
Notional amount
$
300,000
$
300,000
Weighted average fixed receive rates
4.81
%
4.81
%
Weighted average variable Prime pay rates
7.85
%
7.32
%
Weighted average maturity, in years
5.85 years
6.10 years
Gross aggregate fair value of the swaps
Gross aggregate fair value of swap assets
Other assets
$
2,062
$
2,535
Gross aggregate fair value of swap liabilities
Other liabilities
25,970
32,367
Balances carried in AOCI
Unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges, net of tax
AOCI
$
(16,642)
$
(20,985)
The Company expects to reclassify unrealized gains and losses from OCI to interest income and interest expense as shown in the following table, during the next 12 months (dollars in thousands). Amounts actually recognized could differ from these expectations due to changes in interest rates, hedge de-designations, and the addition of other hedges subsequent to March 31, 2023.
As of March 31, 2023
Unrealized gains (losses) in OCI expected to be recognized in income
Unrealized gains expected to be reclassified from OCI to interest income
$
393
Unrealized losses expected to be reclassified from OCI to interest expense
(783)
Net unrealized gains (losses) in OCI expected to be recognized in net interest income
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
Interest expense recorded on these swap transactions was as follows for the periods presented (dollars in thousands):
Three Months Ended March 31,
2023
2022
Interest on swap transactions
Interest income on swap transactions
$
383
$
685
Interest expense on swap transactions
(2,192)
(185)
Net interest income (expense) on swap transactions
$
(1,809)
$
500
The following table reflects the net gains (losses) relating to cash flow derivative instruments that were recorded in AOCI and the unaudited Consolidated Statements of Income during the periods presented (dollars in thousands):
Three Months Ended March 31,
2023
2022
Unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges
Net gain (loss) recognized in OCI, net of tax
$
3,050
$
(4,845)
(Gain) loss reclassified from OCI to interest income, net of tax
(274)
(489)
(Gain) loss reclassified from OCI to interest expense, net of tax
1,567
132
Net change in unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges, net of tax
$
4,343
$
(5,202)
Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedges
Interest Rate Swaps Not Designated as Hedges
The Company may offer derivative contracts to its customers in connection with their risk management needs. The Company manages the risk associated with these contracts by entering into equal and offsetting derivative agreements with a third-party dealer. These contracts support variable rate, commercial loan relationships totaling $648.3 million and as of March 31, 2023, and $576.9 million as of December 31, 2022. These derivatives generally worked together as an economic interest rate hedge, but the Company did not designate them for hedge accounting treatment. Consequently, changes in fair value of the corresponding derivative financial asset or liability were recorded as either a charge or credit to current earnings during the period in which the changes occurred.
Amounts and fair values of derivative assets and liabilities related to customer interest rate swaps recorded in the unaudited Consolidated Balance Sheets are summarized as follows (dollars in thousands):
As of March 31, 2023
Derivative Asset
Derivative Liability
Notional Amount
Fair Value
Notional Amount
Fair Value
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Interest rate swaps – pay floating, receive fixed
$
161,772
$
2,256
$
486,488
$
30,226
Interest rate swaps – pay fixed, receive floating
486,488
30,226
161,772
2,256
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
As of December 31, 2022
Derivative Asset
Derivative Liability
Notional Amount
Fair Value
Notional Amount
Fair Value
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Interest rate swaps – pay floating, receive fixed
$
48,728
$
370
$
528,183
$
39,685
Interest rate swaps – pay fixed, receive floating
528,183
39,685
48,728
370
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
$
576,911
$
40,055
$
576,911
$
40,055
Changes in fair value of these derivative assets and liabilities are recorded in noninterest expense in the unaudited Consolidated Statements of Income and summarized as follows (dollars in thousands):
Three Months Ended March 31,
Location
2023
2022
Interest rate swaps
Pay floating, receive fixed
Noninterest expense
$
(7,667)
$
(3,550)
Pay fixed, receive floating
Noninterest expense
7,667
3,550
Net change in fair value of interest rate swaps
$
—
$
—
Risk Participation Agreements
To manage the credit risk exposure related to a customer-facing swap, the Company entered into risk participation agreements in conjunction with loan participation arrangements with other financial institutions. The risk participation agreements mature between 2026 and 2029, and are summarized as follows (dollars in thousands):
As of
March 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
Risk participation agreements
Number of risk participation agreements
3
2
Notional amount
$
34,320
$
18,899
Fair value
24
5
Mortgage Banking Derivatives
Interest Rate Lock Commitments
Interest rate lock commitments that meet the definition of derivative financial instruments under ASC Topic 815 “Derivatives and Hedging” are carried at their fair values in other assets or other liabilities in the unaudited Consolidated Balance Sheets, with changes in the fair values of the corresponding derivative financial assets or liabilities recorded as either a charge or credit to current earnings during the period in which the changes occurred.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
Forward Sales Commitments
The Company economically hedges mortgage loans held for sale and interest rate lock commitments issued to its residential loan customers related to loans that will be held for sale by obtaining corresponding forward sales commitments with an investor to sell the loans at an agreed-upon price at the time the interest rate locks are issued to the customers. Forward sales commitments that meet the definition of derivative financial instruments under ASC Topic 815 “Derivatives and Hedging” are carried at their fair values in other assets or other liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. While such forward sales commitments generally served as an economic hedge to mortgage loans held for sale and interest rate lock commitments, the Company did not designate them for hedge accounting treatment. Changes in fair value of the corresponding derivative financial asset or liability were recorded as either a charge or credit to current earnings during the period in which the changes occurred.
Amounts and fair values of mortgage banking derivatives included in the unaudited Consolidated Balance Sheets are summarized as follows (dollars in thousands):
As of March 31, 2023
As of December 31, 2022
Location
Notional Amount
Fair Value
Notional Amount
Fair Value
Derivatives with positive fair value
Interest rate lock commitments
Other assets
$
2,955
$
53
$
1,517
$
16
Forward sales commitments
Other assets
697
3
83
1
Mortgage banking derivatives recorded in other assets
$
3,652
$
56
$
1,600
$
17
Derivatives with negative fair value
Interest rate lock commitments
Other liabilities
$
36
$
—
$
83
$
1
Forward sales commitments
Other liabilities
4,983
95
2,757
39
Mortgage banking derivatives recorded in other liabilities
$
5,019
$
95
$
2,840
$
40
Net gains (losses) relating to these derivative instruments are summarized as follows for the periods presented (dollars in thousands):
Three Months Ended March 31,
Location
2023
2022
Net gains (losses)
Interest rate lock commitments
Mortgage revenue
$
37
$
15
Forward sales commitments
Mortgage revenue
(54)
106
Net gains (losses)
$
(17)
$
121
Note 11: Fair Value Measurements
The fair value of an asset or liability is the price that would be received by selling that asset or paid in transferring that liability (exit price) in an orderly transaction occurring in the principal market (or most advantageous market in the absence of a principal market) for such asset or liability. ASC Topic 820 “Fair Value Measurement” establishes a fair value hierarchy for valuation inputs that gives the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs. The fair value hierarchy is as follows:
•Level 1 Inputs – Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has the ability to access at the measurement date.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
•Level 2 Inputs – Inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. These might include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability (such as interest rates, volatilities, prepayment speeds, credit risks, etc.) or inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by market data by correlation or other means.
•Level 3 Inputs – Unobservable inputs for determining the fair values of assets or liabilities that reflect the Company’s own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the assets or liabilities.
A description of the valuation methodologies used for instruments measured at fair value, as well as the general classification of such instruments pursuant to the valuation hierarchy, is set forth below. These valuation methodologies were applied to those Company assets and liabilities that are carried at fair value.
In general, fair value is based upon quoted market prices, when available. If such quoted market prices are not available, fair values are measured utilizing independent valuation techniques of identical or similar securities for which significant assumptions are derived primarily from or corroborated by observable data. Valuation adjustments may be made to ensure that financial instruments are recorded at fair value. These adjustments may include amounts to reflect, among other things, counterparty credit quality and the company's creditworthiness as well as unobservable parameters. Any such valuation adjustments are applied consistently over time. While management believes the Company's valuation methodologies are appropriate and consistent with other market participants, the use of different methodologies or assumptions to determine the fair value of certain financial instruments could result in a different estimate of fair value at the reporting date.
Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
Debt Securities Available for Sale
Debt securities classified as available for sale are reported at fair value utilizing Level 2 inputs. The Company obtains fair value measurements from an independent pricing service. The independent pricing service utilizes evaluated pricing models that vary by asset class and incorporate available trade, bid, and other market information. Because many fixed income securities do not trade on a daily basis, the independent pricing service applies available information, focusing on observable market data such as benchmark curves, benchmarking of like securities, sector groupings, and matrix pricing, to prepare evaluations.
The independent pricing service uses model processes, such as the Option Adjusted Spread model, to assess interest rate impact and develop prepayment scenarios. Models and processes take into account market conventions. For each asset class, a team of evaluators gathers information from market sources and integrates relevant credit information, perceived market movements, and sector news into the evaluated pricing applications and models.
Market inputs that the independent pricing service normally seeks for evaluations of securities, listed in approximate order of priority, include: benchmark yields, reported trades, broker/dealer quotes, issuer spreads, two-sided markets, benchmark securities, bids, offers, and reference data including market research publications. The independent pricing service also monitors market indicators, industry, and economic events. For certain security types, additional inputs may be used or some of the market inputs may not be applicable. Evaluators may prioritize inputs differently on any given day for any security based on market conditions, and not all inputs listed are available for use in the evaluation process for each security evaluation on a given day. Because the data utilized was observable, the securities have been classified as Level 2.
Equity Securities
Equity securities are reported at fair value utilizing Level 1 or Level 2 inputs. Fair value measurements of mutual funds, when held, are determined using unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets at the measurement date and are classified as Level 1. For stock, quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active are utilized and classified as Level 2.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
Derivative Assets and Derivative Liabilities
The majority of our derivative assets and derivative liabilities are reported at fair value utilizing Level 2 or Level 3 inputs. Fair values of derivative assets and liabilities are determined based on prices that are obtained from a third-party which uses observable market inputs and, with the exception of our risk participation agreements, are classified as Level 2. Due to the significance of unobservable inputs, derivative assets related to our risk participation agreements are classified as Level 3.
The following tables summarize financial assets and financial liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of March 31, 2023, and December 31, 2022, segregated by the level of the valuation inputs within the fair value hierarchy utilized to measure fair value (dollars in thousands):
As of March 31, 2023
Level 1 Inputs
Level 2 Inputs
Level 3 Inputs
Total Fair Value
Debt securities available for sale:
U.S. Treasury securities
$
—
$
84,632
$
—
$
84,632
Obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies
—
11,627
—
11,627
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
—
254,261
—
254,261
Asset-backed securities
—
469,147
—
469,147
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
—
108,827
—
108,827
Residential mortgage-backed securities
—
1,225,934
—
1,225,934
Corporate debt securities
—
229,122
—
229,122
Equity securities
—
10,915
—
10,915
Derivative assets
—
34,600
24
34,624
Derivative liabilities
—
58,547
—
58,547
As of December 31, 2022
Level 1 Inputs
Level 2 Inputs
Level 3 Inputs
Total Fair Value
Debt securities available for sale:
U.S. Treasury securities
$
—
$
114,061
$
—
$
114,061
Obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies
—
19,779
—
19,779
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
—
257,512
—
257,512
Asset-backed securities
—
469,875
—
469,875
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
—
108,394
—
108,394
Residential mortgage-backed securities
—
1,243,256
—
1,243,256
Corporate debt securities
—
248,516
—
248,516
Equity securities
—
11,535
—
11,535
Derivative assets
—
42,607
5
42,612
Derivative liabilities
—
72,462
—
72,462
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis
Certain financial assets and financial liabilities are measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis; that is, the instruments are not measured at fair value on an ongoing basis but are subject to fair value adjustments in certain circumstances (for example, when there is evidence of impairment).
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
Loans Evaluated Individually
The Company does not record portfolio loans at fair value on a recurring basis. However, periodically, a loan is evaluated individually and is reported at the fair value of the underlying collateral, less estimated costs to sell, if repayment is expected solely from the collateral. If the collateral value is not sufficient, a specific reserve is recorded. Collateral values are estimated using a combination of observable inputs, including recent appraisals, and unobservable inputs based on customized discounting criteria. Due to the significance of unobservable inputs, fair values of individually evaluated collateral dependent loans have been classified as Level 3.
OREO and Other Repossessed Assets
Non-financial assets measured at fair value include OREO and other repossessed assets (upon initial recognition or subsequent impairment). OREO properties and other repossessed assets are measured using a combination of observable inputs, including recent appraisals, and unobservable inputs. Due to the significance of unobservable inputs, the fair values of all OREO and other repossessed assets have been classified as Level 3.
Bank Property Held for Sale
Bank property held for sale represents certain banking center office buildings which the Company has closed and consolidated with other existing banking centers. Bank property held for sale is measured at the lower of amortized cost or fair value less estimated costs to sell. Fair values were based upon discounted appraisals or real estate listing prices. Due to the significance of unobservable inputs, fair values of all bank property held for sale have been classified as Level 3.
The following tables summarize assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis for the periods presented, segregated by the level of the valuation inputs within the fair value hierarchy utilized to measure fair value (dollars in thousands):
As of March 31, 2023
Level 1 Inputs
Level 2 Inputs
Level 3 Inputs
Total Fair Value
Loans evaluated individually, net of related allowance
$
—
$
—
$
5,806
$
5,806
OREO and other repossessed assets with subsequent impairment
—
—
639
639
Bank property held for sale with impairment
—
—
7,923
7,923
As of December 31, 2022
Level 1 Inputs
Level 2 Inputs
Level 3 Inputs
Total Fair Value
Loans evaluated individually, net of related allowance
$
—
$
—
$
5,345
$
5,345
Bank property held for sale with impairment
—
—
7,923
7,923
The following table presents additional quantitative information about assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis for which the Company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value (dollars in thousands):
As of March 31, 2023
Fair Value
Valuation Techniques
Unobservable Input
Range (Weighted Average)
Loans evaluated individually, net of related allowance
$
5,806
Appraisal of collateral
Appraisal adjustments
-20.8% to -100.0%
(-35.5)%
OREO and other repossessed assets with subsequent impairment
639
Appraisal of collateral
Appraisal adjustments
-13.6%
(-13.6)%
Bank property held for sale with impairment
7,923
Appraisal of collateral or real estate listing price
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
As of December 31, 2022
Fair Value
Valuation
Techniques
Unobservable
Input
Range
(Weighted Average)
Loans evaluated individually, net of related allowance
$
5,345
Appraisal of collateral
Appraisal adjustments
-22.7% to -100.0%
(-45.7)%
Bank property held for sale with impairment
7,923
Appraisal of collateral or real estate listing price
Appraisal adjustments
-0.7% to -70.1%
(-35.1)%
Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities That Are Not Carried at Fair Value
Estimated fair values of financial instruments that are not carried at fair value in the Company’s unaudited Consolidated Balance Sheets, segregated by the level of the valuation inputs within the fair value hierarchy utilized to measure fair value, were as follows (dollars in thousands):
As of March 31, 2023
As of December 31, 2022
Carrying Amount
Fair Value
Carrying Amount
Fair Value
Financial assets
Level 1 inputs:
Cash and cash equivalents
$
275,569
$
275,569
$
227,164
$
227,164
Level 2 inputs:
Debt securities held to maturity
907,559
780,653
918,312
785,295
Loans held for sale
2,714
2,756
1,253
1,276
Accrued interest receivable
42,854
42,854
43,372
43,372
Level 3 inputs:
Portfolio loans, net
7,692,081
7,431,580
7,634,094
7,320,422
Mortgage servicing rights
5,158
17,748
5,861
18,284
Other servicing rights
1,813
2,242
1,914
2,331
Financial liabilities
Level 2 inputs:
Time deposits
$
1,148,671
$
1,122,686
$
855,375
$
830,596
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase
210,977
210,977
229,806
229,806
Short-term borrowings
615,881
615,899
351,054
351,085
Long-term debt
27,000
27,025
30,000
30,052
Junior subordinated debt owed to unconsolidated trusts
71,855
56,640
71,810
59,111
Accrued interest payable
9,265
9,265
3,978
3,978
Level 3 inputs:
Subordinated notes, net of unamortized issuance costs
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
Note 12: Earnings Per Common Share
Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income for the period by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding, which include DSUs that are vested but not delivered. Diluted earnings per common share is computed using the treasury stock method and reflects the potential dilution that could occur if the Company’s outstanding stock options and warrants were exercised, stock units were vested, and ESPP shares were issued.
Earnings per common share have been computed as follows (dollars in thousands, except per share amounts):
Three Months Ended March 31,
2023
2022
Net income
$
36,786
$
28,439
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding, basic
55,397,989
55,427,696
Dilutive effect of common stock equivalents:
Options
—
4,568
Warrants
1,296
1,855
RSU awards
651,777
703,574
PSU awards
90,645
16,378
DSU awards
24,345
29,373
ESPP
13,554
11,502
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding, diluted
56,179,606
56,194,946
Basic earnings per common share
$
0.66
$
0.51
Diluted earnings per common share
0.65
0.51
Average shares that were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per common share because their effect would have been anti-dilutive are summarized in the table below for the periods presented:
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
Note 13: Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
The following tables present changes in AOCI by component, net of tax, for the period below (dollars in thousands):
Three Months Ended March 31,
2023
2022
Before Tax
Tax Effect
Net of Tax
Before Tax
Tax Effect
Net of Tax
Unrealized/Unrecognized gains (losses) on debt securities
Balance at beginning of period
$
(352,878)
$
100,585
$
(252,293)
$
(32,272)
$
9,199
$
(23,073)
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on debt securities available for sale, net
30,693
(8,749)
21,944
(104,282)
29,726
(74,556)
Unrecognized losses on debt securities transferred to held to maturity from available for sale
—
—
—
(48,456)
13,812
(34,644)
Amounts reclassified from AOCI, net
(4)
1
(3)
(106)
30
(76)
Amortization of unrecognized losses on securities transferred to held to maturity
1,693
(483)
1,210
883
(252)
631
Balance at end of period
(320,496)
91,354
(229,142)
(184,233)
52,515
(131,718)
Unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges
Balance at beginning of period
(29,350)
8,365
(20,985)
(958)
273
(685)
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on cash flow hedges, net
4,264
(1,214)
3,050
(6,776)
1,931
(4,845)
Amounts reclassified from AOCI, net
1,809
(516)
1,293
(500)
143
(357)
Balance at end of period
(23,277)
6,635
(16,642)
(8,234)
2,347
(5,887)
Total AOCI
$
(343,773)
$
97,989
$
(245,784)
$
(192,467)
$
54,862
$
(137,605)
Note 14: Operating Segments and Related Information
The Company has three reportable operating segments: Banking, FirsTech, and Wealth Management. The Company’s three operating segments are strategic business units that are separately managed as they offer different products and services and have different marketing strategies.
The Banking Operating Segment
The Banking operating segment provides a full range of banking services to individual and corporate customers through the Company’s wholly-owned bank subsidiary, Busey Bank, with 58 banking centers in Illinois; the St. Louis, Missouri, metropolitan area; southwest Florida; and Indianapolis, Indiana.
Banking services offered to individual customers include customary types of demand and savings deposits, money transfers, safe deposit services, individual retirement accounts and other fiduciary services, automated teller machines, and technology-based networks, as well as a variety of loan products including residential real estate, home equity lines of credit, and consumer loans. Banking services offered to corporate customers include commercial, commercial real estate, real estate construction, and agricultural loans, as well as commercial depository services such as cash management.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
The FirsTech Operating Segment
The FirsTech operating segment provides comprehensive and innovative payment technology solutions. FirsTech's multi-channel payment platform allows businesses to collect payments from their customers in a variety of ways, to enable fast, frictionless payments. Payment method vehicles include, but are not limited to, text-based mobile bill pay; interactive voice response; electronic payment concentration delivered to Automated Clearing House networks, money management, and credit card networks; walk-in payment processing for customers at retail pay agents; customer service payments made over a telephone; direct debit services; and lockbox remittance processing for customers to make payments by mail. FirsTech also provides additional tools to help clients with billing, reconciliation, bill reminders, and treasury services.
FirsTech's client base represents a diverse set of industries, with a higher concentration in highly regulated industries, such as financial institutions, utility, insurance, and telecommunications industries.
The Wealth Management Operating Segment
The Wealth Management operating segment provides a full range of asset management, investment, brokerage, fiduciary, philanthropic advisory, tax preparation, and farm management services to individuals, businesses, and foundations.
Wealth management services tailored to individuals include trust and estate advisory services and financial planning. Business services include business succession planning and employee retirement plan services. Services for foundations include investment strategy consulting and fiduciary services.
Segment Financial Information
The segment financial information provided below has been derived from information used by management to monitor and manage the financial performance of the Company. The accounting policies of the three operating segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies in “Note 1. Significant Accounting Policies” in the Company’s 2022 Annual Report. The Company accounts for intersegment revenue and transfers at current market value.
Following is a summary of selected financial information for the Company’s operating segments. The “other” category included in the tables below consists of the parent company, First Busey Risk Management, and the elimination of intercompany transactions (dollars in thousands):
First Busey is a $12.3 billion financial holding company headquartered in Champaign, Illinois. Our common stock is traded on The Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol “BUSE.”
Our three operating segments provide a full range of banking, payment technology solutions, and wealth management services through our subsidiaries, Busey Bank and FirsTech, in Illinois; the St. Louis, Missouri metropolitan area; southwest Florida; and Indianapolis, Indiana.
The following discussion and analysis are intended to assist readers in understanding First Busey’s financial condition and results of operations during the three months ended March 31, 2023, and should be read in conjunction with our Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) and the related Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) included in this Quarterly Report, as well as our 2022 Annual Report.
Busey’s Conservative Banking Strategy
The quality of our core deposit franchise is a critical value driver of our institution. Despite recent turmoil experienced in certain sectors of the banking industry, we have seen relative stability in our deposit franchise. We have sufficient on- and off-balance sheet liquidity to manage deposit fluctuations and the liquidity needs of our customers.
Our operating mandate and focus have been on offering convenient products and services to customers while emphasizing credit quality over asset growth. First Busey’s financial strength is built on a sound business strategy of conservative banking, and that focus will not change now or in the future.
Efficiency Initiative
Late last year we implemented a targeted restructuring and efficiency optimization plan that is projected to generate approximately $4.0 million of annual savings. These initiatives are anticipated to help offset some of the inflationary pressures that exist today while allowing us to invest back into other parts of our organization.
Operating performance metrics presented in the table below have been derived from information used by management to monitor and manage the financial performance of the Company (dollars in thousands, except per share amounts):
First Busey views certain non-operating items, including acquisition-related and restructuring charges, as adjustments to net income reported under GAAP. Non-operating pretax adjustments were as follows for the periods presented (dollars in thousands):
Three Months Ended March 31,
2023
2022
Non-operating costs
Acquisition related expenses1
$
—
$
835
Restructuring charges2
—
—
Total non-operating costs
$
—
$
835
___________________________________________
1.Acquisition expenses related to completed acquisitions and exploratory due diligence.
2.Restructuring charges related to previously disclosed restructuring and efficiency plans.
A reconciliation of non-GAAP measures—including pre-provision net revenue, adjusted pre-provision net revenue, pre-provision net revenue to average assets, adjusted pre-provision net revenue to average assets, adjusted net income, adjusted diluted earnings per share, adjusted return on average assets, average tangible common equity, return on average tangible common equity, adjusted return on average tangible common equity, tax-equivalent net interest income, net interest margin, adjusted net interest income, adjusted net interest margin, tax-equivalent revenue, non-interest expense excluding amortization of intangible assets, adjusted noninterest expense, adjusted core expense, efficiency ratio, adjusted efficiency ratio, adjusted core efficiency ratio, noninterest expense excluding non-operating adjustments, tangible assets, tangible common equity, tangible common equity to tangible assets, tangible book value, tangible book value per common share, core loans, core loans to portfolio loans, core deposits, core deposits to total deposits, and core loans to core deposits—which First Busey believes facilitates the assessment of its financial results and peer comparability, is included in tabular form in this Quarterly Report. See “Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis—Non-GAAP Financial Information.”
Acquisitions
On May 31, 2021, First Busey completed its acquisition of CAC, the holding company for GSB. GSB was operated as a separate banking subsidiary from June 1, 2021, until August 14, 2021, when it was merged with and into Busey Bank. At that time GSB’s banking centers became banking centers of Busey Bank. Upon completion of the GSB acquisition, we reset the baseline for the future financial performance of First Busey in a multitude of positive ways.
Banking Center Markets
Busey Bank serves the Illinois banking market with 46 banking centers. Our Illinois markets feature several Fortune 1000 companies. Those organizations, coupled with large healthcare and higher education sectors, anchor the communities in which they are located and have provided a comparatively stable foundation for housing, employment, and small business. Ten of our banking centers in Illinois are located within the Chicago Metropolitan Statistical Area, and 12 of our banking centers in Illinois are located within the St. Louis Metropolitan Statistical Area.
Busey Bank has eight banking centers in Missouri. St. Louis, Missouri has a diverse economy with major employment sectors including health care, financial services, professional and business services, and retail. We have a total of 20 banking centers within the boundaries of the St. Louis Metropolitan Statistical Area, including branches in both Illinois and Missouri.
Busey Bank has three banking centers in southwest Florida, an area which has experienced strong population growth, job growth, and an expanded housing market, as well as the benefits of a tourism and winter resort economy.
Busey Bank has one banking center in the Indianapolis, Indiana area, which is the most populous city of Indiana with a diverse economy, due in part to it serving as the headquarters of many large corporations.
Net Interest Income
Net interest income is the difference between interest income and fees earned on earning assets and interest expense incurred on interest-bearing liabilities. Interest rate levels and volume fluctuations within earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities impact net interest income. Net interest margin is tax-equivalent net interest income as a percent of average earning assets.
Certain assets with tax favorable treatment are evaluated on a tax-equivalent basis, assuming a federal income tax rate of 21.0%. Tax favorable assets generally have lower contractual pre-tax yields than fully taxable assets. A tax-equivalent analysis is performed by adding the tax savings to the earnings on tax favorable assets. After factoring in the tax favorable effects of these assets, the yields may be more appropriately evaluated against alternative earning assets. In addition to yield, various other risks are factored into the evaluation process.
Consolidated Average Balance Sheets and Interest Rates (Unaudited)
The following tables show our unaudited Consolidated Average Balance Sheets (dollars in thousands), and details the major categories of assets and liabilities, the interest income earned on interest-earning assets, the interest expense paid for interest-bearing liabilities, and the related interest yields for the periods shown. Average information is provided on a daily average basis.
Three Months Ended March 31,
2023
2022
Average Balance
Income/ Expense
Yield/ Rate
Average Balance
Income/ Expense
Yield/ Rate
Assets
Interest-bearing bank deposits and federal funds sold
$
108,051
$
988
3.71
%
$
560,824
$
277
0.20
%
Investment securities:
U.S. Government obligations
125,218
195
0.63
%
197,590
288
0.59
%
Obligations of states and political subdivisions1
254,403
1,765
2.81
%
302,336
1,915
2.57
%
Other securities
2,980,364
18,579
2.53
%
3,470,430
12,951
1.51
%
Loans held for sale
1,650
23
5.65
%
11,930
83
2.82
%
Portfolio loans1, 2
7,710,876
90,113
4.74
%
7,160,837
61,123
3.46
%
Total interest-earning assets1, 3
11,180,562
$
111,663
4.05
%
11,703,947
$
76,637
2.66
%
Cash and due from banks
115,145
126,631
Premises and equipment
127,094
135,377
ACL
(92,693)
(88,454)
Other assets
933,610
783,438
Total assets
$
12,263,718
$
12,660,939
Liabilities and stockholders’ equity
Interest-bearing transaction deposits
$
2,767,507
$
6,938
1.02
%
$
2,680,333
$
364
0.06
%
Savings and money market deposits
2,911,194
3,952
0.55
%
3,429,909
560
0.07
%
Time deposits
958,704
3,850
1.63
%
917,244
1,200
0.53
%
Federal funds purchased and repurchase agreements
230,351
1,222
2.15
%
271,095
59
0.09
%
Borrowings4
675,349
8,373
5.03
%
284,430
3,198
4.56
%
Junior subordinated debt issued to unconsolidated trusts
2.Non-accrual loans have been included in average portfolio loans.
3.Interest income includes a tax-equivalent adjustment of $0.6 million and $0.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, and 2022, respectively.
4.Includes short-term and long-term borrowings. Interest expense includes a non-usage fee on a revolving loan.
2.Net interest income expressed as a percentage of average earning assets, stated on a tax-equivalent basis.
The FOMC raised rates by 50 basis points during the first quarter of 2023, and by a total of 475 basis points since the onset of the current FOMC tightening cycle that began in the first quarter of 2022. Rising rates initially have a positive impact on net interest margin, as assets, in particular commercial loans, reprice more quickly and to a greater extent than liabilities. As deposit and funding costs increase in response to the tightening rate cycle, we will see pressure on net interest margin which will lead to periods of declining performance, which we experienced during the first quarter of 2023.
First Busey remains substantially core deposit funded, with robust liquidity and significant market share in the communities we serve. As of March 31, 2023, our loan to deposit ratio was 79.4% and core deposits represented 97.9% of total deposits.
Net interest spread, which represents the difference between the average rate earned on earning assets and the average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities, was 2.71% for the three months ended March 31, 2023, compared to 2.34% for the three months ended March 31, 2022, each on a tax-equivalent basis.
The net interest margin discussion above is based upon the results and average balances for the three months ended March 31, 2023, and 2022. Annualized net interest margins for the quarterly periods indicated were as follows:
2023
2022
First Quarter
3.13
%
2.45
%
Second Quarter
2.68
%
Third Quarter
3.00
%
Fourth Quarter
3.24
%
Management attempts to mitigate the effects of an unpredictable interest-rate environment through effective portfolio management, prudent loan underwriting and pricing discipline, and operational efficiencies. For a description of accounting policies underlying the recognition of interest income and expense, refer to the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in the Company’s 2022 Annual Report.
Noninterest Income
Changes in noninterest income are summarized as follows for the periods presented (dollars in thousands):
Three Months Ended March 31,
2023
2022
Change
% Change
Noninterest income
Wealth management and payment technology solutions income:
Wealth management fees
$
14,797
$
15,779
$
(982)
(6.2)
%
Payment technology solutions
5,315
5,077
238
4.7
%
Combined, wealth management fees and payment technology solutions
20,112
20,856
(744)
(3.6)
%
Fees for customer services
6,819
8,907
(2,088)
(23.4)
%
Mortgage revenue
288
975
(687)
(70.5)
%
Income on bank owned life insurance
1,652
884
768
86.9
%
Securities income:
Realized net gains (losses) on securities
4
106
(102)
(96.2)
%
Unrealized net gains (losses) recognized on equity securities
(620)
(720)
100
13.9
%
Net securities gains (losses)
(616)
(614)
(2)
(0.3)
%
Other income
3,593
4,764
(1,171)
(24.6)
%
Total noninterest income
$
31,848
$
35,772
$
(3,924)
(11.0)
%
Total noninterest income was $31.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, a decrease of 11.0% from the comparable period in 2022. Combined, revenues from wealth management fees and payment technology solutions represented 63.1% of the Company’s noninterest income for the three months ended March 31, 2023, providing a complement to spread-based revenue from traditional banking activities. On a combined basis, revenue from these two critical operating areas was $20.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, a 3.6% decrease from the comparable period in 2022.
Wealth management fees were $14.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, a 6.2% decrease from the comparable period in 2022. First Busey’s Wealth Management division ended the first quarter of 2023 with $11.2 billion in assets under care, compared to $11.1 billion as of December 31, 2022, and $12.3 billion at March 31, 2022. Our portfolio management team continues to produce solid results in the face of volatile markets.
Payment technology solutions revenue relates to our payment processing company, FirsTech. Payment technology solutions revenue was $5.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, a 4.7% increase from the comparable period in 2022. We continue to make strategic investments in FirsTech to enhance future growth, including further upgrades to the product and engineering teams to build an Application Programming Interface (API) cloud-based platform to provide for fully integrated payment capabilities as well as the continued development of our Banking as a Service (BaaS) platform.
Fees for customer services were $6.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, a 23.4% decrease from the comparable period in 2022. Beginning on July 1, 2022, we became subject to the Durbin Amendment of the Dodd-Frank Act. The Durbin Amendment requires the Federal Reserve to establish a maximum permissible interchange fee for many types of debit transactions, which resulted in a $2.3 million reduction in fee income during the three months ended March 31, 2023. Excluding the impact of the Durbin Amendment, fees for customer services would have shown an increase of 2.0% from the comparable period in 2022.
Mortgage revenue was $0.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, a 70.5% decrease from the comparable period in 2022. Decreases primarily resulted from declines in mortgage origination and sold-loan mortgage volume, combined with a decrease in net gain on sale yields. General economic conditions and interest rate volatility may impact fees in future quarters.
Income on bank owned life insurance was $1.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, an 86.9% increase from the comparable period in 2022. Increases resulted from earnings on death proceeds of $0.7 million.
Other income was $3.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, a $1.2 million decrease from the comparable period in 2022. Other income fluctuations were primarily attributable to lower income recognized on venture capital investments during the three months ended March 31, 2023.
Changes in noninterest expense are summarized as follows for the periods presented (dollars in thousands):
Three Months Ended March 31,
2023
2022
Change
% Change
Noninterest expense
Salaries, wages, and employee benefits
$
40,331
$
39,354
$
977
2.5
%
Data processing
5,640
4,978
662
13.3
%
Premises expenses:
Net occupancy expense of premises
4,762
5,067
(305)
(6.0)
%
Furniture and equipment expenses
1,746
2,030
(284)
(14.0)
%
Combined, net occupancy expense of premises and furniture and equipment expenses
6,508
7,097
(589)
(8.3)
%
Professional fees
2,058
1,507
551
36.6
%
Amortization of intangible assets
2,729
3,011
(282)
(9.4)
%
Interchange expense
1,853
1,545
308
19.9
%
Other expense
11,284
12,884
(1,600)
(12.4)
%
Total noninterest expense
$
70,403
$
70,376
$
27
—
%
Income taxes
$
9,563
$
7,266
$
2,297
31.6
%
Effective income tax rate
20.6
%
20.4
%
20 bps
Efficiency ratio1
56.9
%
63.0
%
(610) bps
Adjusted efficiency ratio1
56.9
%
62.2
%
(530) bps
Full-time equivalent employees as of period-end
1,473
1,465
8
0.5
%
___________________________________________
1.The efficiency ratio and adjusted efficiency ratio are non-GAAP financial measures. For a reconciliation of non-GAAP measures to the most directly comparable financial GAAP measures, see “Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis—Non-GAAP Financial Information” included in this Quarterly Report.
Total noninterest expense was $70.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, and 2022. We remain focused on expense discipline, and have been purposeful in our efforts to rationalize our expense base given our economic outlook and our view on the future of banking. In particular, we have reduced the number of service centers from 87 to 58, representing a one-third reduction in the number of service centers we operate. Additionally, in late 2022, we implemented a targeted restructuring and efficiency optimization plan.
Salaries, wages, and employee benefits were $40.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, a 2.5% increase from the comparable period in 2022. Full-time equivalents were 1,473 as of March 31, 2023, compared to 1,465 at March 31, 2022. Labor market trends over the past year reflected a tight labor supply, while job gains resulted in increased demands for a skilled workforce, maintaining upward pressure on salaries, wages, and employee benefits.
Data processing expense was $5.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, a 13.3% increase from the comparable period in 2022. Increases were primarily attributable to Company-wide investments in technology enhancements as well as inflation-driven price increases.
Combined, net occupancy expense of premises and furniture and equipment expense totaled $6.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, an 8.3% decrease from the comparable period in 2022. Year-over-year decreases are primarily attributable to lower maintenance costs and declines in depreciation expense.
Professional fees were $2.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, a 36.6% increase from the comparable period in 2022 due to increases in consulting and legal fees.
Amortization of intangible assets was $2.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, a 9.4% decrease from the comparable period for 2022, due to the use of an accelerated amortization methodology.
Interchange expense was $1.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, a 19.9% increase from the comparable period in 2022. Fluctuations in interchange expense were primarily the result of increased payment and volume activity at FirsTech.
Other expense was $11.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, an $1.6 million decrease from the comparable period in 2022. Decreases were across multiple expense categories including fluctuations in OREO and the provision for unfunded commitments, partially offset by increases in New Markets Tax Credits amortization and regulatory expenses resulting from the increase in the FDIC insurance assessment base rate that became effective January 1, 2023.
The efficiency ratio1, which is a measure commonly used by management and the banking industry, measures the amount of expense incurred to generate a dollar of revenue. Our efficiency ratio was 56.9% for the three months ended March 31, 2023, compared to 63.0% for the three months ended March 31, 2022. Our adjusted efficiency ratio1 was 56.9% for the three months ended March 31, 2023, compared to 62.2% for three months ended March 31, 2022.
Taxes
The effective income tax rate of 20.6% for the three months ended March 31, 2023, was lower than the combined federal and state statutory rate of approximately 28.0% due to tax exempt interest income, such as municipal bond interest and bank owned life insurance income, and investments in various tax credits. We continue to monitor evolving federal and state tax legislation and its potential impact on operations on an ongoing basis. As of March 31, 2023, we were not under examination by any tax authority; however, we have received an inquiry from the State of Illinois regarding our prior franchise tax filings. In the event the Company is required to amend our prior franchise tax filings, we could incur additional expenses.
1The efficiency ratio and adjusted efficiency ratio are non-GAAP financial measures. For a reconciliation of non-GAAP measures to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures, see “Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis—Non-GAAP Financial Information” included in this Quarterly Report.
Changes in significant items included in our unaudited Consolidated Balance Sheets are summarized as follows as of each of the dates indicated (dollars in thousands):
As of
March 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
Change
% Change
Assets
Debt securities available for sale
$
2,383,550
$
2,461,393
$
(77,843)
(3.2)
%
Debt securities held to maturity
907,559
918,312
(10,753)
(1.2)
%
Portfolio loans, net of ACL
7,692,081
7,634,094
57,987
0.8
%
Total assets
$
12,344,555
$
12,336,677
$
7,878
0.1
%
Liabilities
Deposits:
Noninterest-bearing
$
3,173,783
$
3,393,666
$
(219,883)
(6.5)
%
Interest-bearing
6,627,386
6,677,614
(50,228)
(0.8)
%
Total deposits
$
9,801,169
$
10,071,280
$
(270,111)
(2.7)
%
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase
$
210,977
$
229,806
$
(18,829)
(8.2)
%
Short-term borrowings
615,881
351,054
264,827
75.4
%
Subordinated notes, net of unamortized issuance costs
222,245
222,038
207
0.1
%
Total liabilities
$
11,145,997
$
11,190,700
$
(44,703)
(0.4)
%
Stockholders’ equity
$
1,198,558
$
1,145,977
$
52,581
4.6
%
Portfolio Loans
We believe that making sound and profitable loans is a necessary and desirable means of employing funds available for investment. First Busey maintains lending policies and procedures designed to focus lending efforts on the types, locations, and duration of loans most appropriate for its business model and markets. While not specifically limited, we attempt to focus our lending on short to intermediate-term (0-10 years) loans in geographic areas within 125 miles of our lending offices. Loans originated outside of these areas are generally to existing customers of Busey Bank. We attempt to utilize government-assisted lending programs, such as the SBA and U.S. Department of Agriculture lending programs, when prudent. Generally, loans are collateralized by assets, primarily real estate, and guaranteed by individuals. Loans are expected to be repaid primarily from cash flows of the borrowers or from proceeds from the sale of selected assets of the borrowers.
Management reviews and approves Busey Bank’s lending policies and procedures on a regular basis. Management routinely (at least quarterly) reviews the ACL in conjunction with reports related to loan production, loan quality, concentrations of credit, loan delinquencies, non-performing loans, and potential problem loans. Our underwriting standards are designed to encourage relationship banking rather than transactional banking. Relationship banking implies a primary banking relationship with the borrower that includes, at a minimum, an active deposit banking relationship in addition to the lending relationship. Significant underwriting factors, in addition to location, duration, a sound and profitable cash flow basis, and the borrower’s character, include the quality of the borrower’s financial history, the liquidity of the underlying collateral, and the reliability of the valuation of the underlying collateral.
Busey Bank maintains a well-diversified loan portfolio and, as a matter of policy and practice, limits concentration exposure in any particular loan segment.
At no time is a borrower’s total borrowing relationship permitted to exceed Busey Bank’s regulatory lending limit. We generally limit such relationships to amounts substantially less than the regulatory limit. Loans to related parties, including executive officers and directors of First Busey and its subsidiaries, are reviewed for compliance with regulatory guidelines.
First Busey maintains an independent loan review department that reviews loans for compliance with our loan policy on a periodic basis. In addition, the loan review department reviews risk assessments made by our credit department, lenders, and loan committees. Results of these reviews are presented to management and the audit committee at least quarterly.
Busey Bank’s lending activities can be summarized into two primary categories: commercial and retail. Lending is further classified into five primary areas: commercial loans, commercial real estate loans, real estate construction loans, retail real estate loans, and retail other loans. A description of each of the five primary areas can be found in the Company’s 2022 Annual Report. A significant majority of our portfolio lending activity occurs in the Illinois and Missouri markets, with the remainder in the Florida and Indiana markets.
Geographic distributions of portfolio loans, based on originations, by category and class were as follows (dollars in thousands):
The Company experienced its eighth consecutive quarter of core loan2 growth, generating $58.2 million, or 0.8%, in core loan growth during three months ended March 31, 2023. Like prior periods, most of the loan growth occurred within the Company’s existing client base. Changes in portfolio loan balances were as follows (dollars in thousands):
As of
March 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
Change
% Change
Commercial loans
Commercial
$
1,937,158
$
1,974,154
$
(36,996)
(1.9)
%
Commercial real estate
3,324,536
3,261,873
62,663
1.9%
Real estate construction
554,009
530,469
23,540
4.4%
Total commercial loans
5,815,703
5,766,496
49,207
0.9%
Retail loans
Retail real estate
1,667,537
1,657,082
10,455
0.6%
Retail other
300,568
302,124
(1,556)
(0.5)%
Total retail loans
1,968,105
1,959,206
8,899
0.5%
Total portfolio loans
7,783,808
7,725,702
58,106
0.8%
ACL
(91,727)
(91,608)
(119)
0.1
%
Portfolio loans, net of ACL
$
7,692,081
$
7,634,094
$
57,987
0.8%
Excluding the amortized cost of PPP loans, changes in commercial loan balances were as follows (dollars in thousands):
As of
March 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
Change
% Change
Total commercial loans
$
5,815,703
$
5,766,496
$
49,207
0.9%
Less: PPP loans amortized cost
(750)
(845)
95
(11.2)
%
Commercial loan balances, excluding PPP loans
$
5,814,953
$
5,765,651
$
49,302
0.9%
As has been our practice, we remain steadfast in our conservative approach to underwriting and disciplined approach to pricing, particularly given our outlook for the economy in the coming quarters. Given this outlook, loan growth is likely to slow compared to the Company’s results of the last twelve months and our previous expectations.
Allowance and Provision for Credit Losses
The ACL is a significant estimate in our unaudited consolidated financial statements, affecting both earnings and capital. The methodology adopted influences, and is influenced by, Busey Bank’s overall credit risk management processes. The ACL is recorded in accordance with GAAP to provide an adequate reserve for expected credit losses that is reflective of management’s best estimate of what is expected to be collected. All estimates of credit losses should be based on a careful consideration of all significant factors affecting the collectability as of the evaluation date. The ACL is established through the provision for credit loss expense charged to income. Provision expenses (releases) were recorded as follows for each of the periods indicated (dollars in thousands):
Three Months Ended March 31,
2023
2022
Provision for credit losses
$
953
$
(253)
The provision release during the first quarter of 2022 reflected strong asset quality performance metrics as well as improved macro-economic outlooks at that time. Provision expense during the first quarter of 2023 reflects a stabilization of the provision expense.
The relationship between our portfolio loan balances and our ACL is summarized as follows, as of each of the dates indicated (dollars in thousands):
As of
March 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
September 30, 2022
June 30, 2022
March 31, 2022
Portfolio loans
[a]
$
7,783,808
$
7,725,702
$
7,670,114
$
7,497,778
$
7,272,873
Non-GAAP adjustments:
PPP loans amortized cost
(750)
(845)
(1,426)
(7,616)
(31,769)
Core loans1
[b]
$
7,783,058
$
7,724,857
$
7,668,688
$
7,490,162
$
7,241,104
ACL
[c]
$
91,727
$
91,608
$
90,722
$
88,757
$
88,213
Ratios
ACL to portfolio loans
[c÷a]
1.18
%
1.19
%
1.18
%
1.18
%
1.21
%
ACL to core loans1
[c÷b]
1.18
%
1.19
%
1.18
%
1.18
%
1.22
%
___________________________________________
1.Core loans is a non-GAAP financial measure.
As of March 31, 2023, management believed the level of the ACL to be appropriate based upon the information available. However, additional losses may be identified in our loan portfolio as new information is obtained. The ongoing impacts of CECL will be dependent upon changes in economic conditions and forecasts, originated and acquired loan portfolio composition, prepayment speeds, credit performance trends, portfolio duration, and other factors.
Non-Performing Loans and Non-Performing Assets
Loans are considered past due if the required principal or interest payments have not been received as of the date such payments were due. Loans are placed on non-accrual status when, in management’s opinion, the borrower may be unable to meet payment obligations as they become due, as well as when required by regulatory guidelines. Loans may be placed on non-accrual status regardless of whether or not such loans are considered past due. Loans are returned to accrual status when all principal and interest amounts contractually due are brought current and future payments are reasonably assured.
Typically, loans are secured by collateral. When a loan is classified as non-accrual and determined to be collateral dependent, it is appropriately reserved or charged down through the ACL to the fair value of our interest in the underlying collateral less estimated costs to sell. Our loan portfolio is collateralized primarily by real estate.
The following table sets forth information concerning non-performing loans and performing restructured loans, as of each of the dates indicated (dollars in thousands):
As of
March 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
September 30, 2022
June 30, 2022
March 31, 2022
Portfolio loans
[a]
$
7,783,808
$
7,725,702
$
7,670,114
$
7,497,778
$
7,272,873
Non-GAAP adjustments:
PPP loans amortized cost
(750)
(845)
(1,426)
(7,616)
(31,769)
Core loans1
[b]
$
7,783,058
$
7,724,857
$
7,668,688
$
7,490,162
$
7,241,104
Loans 30 – 89 days past due
$
5,472
$
6,548
$
6,307
$
5,157
$
3,916
Total assets
[c]
12,344,555
12,336,677
12,497,388
12,356,433
12,567,509
Non-performing assets
Non-performing loans:
Non-accrual loans
[d]
14,714
15,067
15,425
15,840
12,488
Loans 90+ days past due and still accruing
500
673
1,229
1,654
197
Total non-performing loans
[e]
15,214
15,740
16,654
17,494
12,685
OREO and other repossessed assets
[f]
759
850
1,219
1,429
3,606
Total non-performing assets
[g]
15,973
16,590
17,873
18,923
16,291
Substandard (excludes 90+ days past due)
87,886
90,489
84,148
84,411
79,962
Classified assets
[h]
$
103,859
$
107,079
$
102,021
$
103,334
$
96,253
ACL
[i]
91,727
91,608
90,722
88,757
88,213
Bank Tier 1 Capital
[j]
1,325,556
1,306,716
1,288,945
1,265,418
1,247,370
Ratios
ACL to non-accrual loans
[i÷d]
623.40
%
608.00
%
588.15
%
560.33
%
706.38
%
ACL to non-performing loans
[i÷e]
602.91
%
582.01
%
544.75
%
507.36
%
695.41
%
ACL to non-performing assets
[i÷g]
574.26
%
552.19
%
507.59
%
469.04
%
541.48
%
Non-accrual loans to portfolio loans
[d÷a]
0.19
%
0.20
%
0.20
%
0.21
%
0.17
%
Non-performing loans to portfolio loans
[e÷a]
0.20
%
0.20
%
0.22
%
0.23
%
0.17
%
Non-performing loans to core loans1
[e÷b]
0.20
%
0.20
%
0.22
%
0.23
%
0.18
%
Non-performing assets to total assets
[g÷c]
0.13
%
0.13
%
0.14
%
0.15
%
0.13
%
Non-performing assets to portfolio loans and OREO and other repossessed assets
Asset quality remains strong by both historical and current industry trends. Non-performing loan balances decreased by 3.3% to $15.2 million as of March 31, 2023, compared with $15.7 million as of December 31, 2022. Continued disciplined credit management resulted in non-performing loans as a percentage of portfolio loans of 0.20% as of both March 31, 2023, and December 31, 2022.
Asset quality metrics remain dependent upon market-specific economic conditions, and specific measures may fluctuate from period to period. If economic conditions were to deteriorate, we would expect the credit quality of our loan portfolio to decline and loan defaults to increase.
Potential Problem Loans
Potential problem loans are loans classified as substandard which are not individually evaluated, non-accrual, or 90+ days past due, but where current information indicates that the borrower may not be able to comply with loan repayment terms. Management assesses the potential for loss on such loans and considers the effect of any potential loss in determining its provision for expected credit losses. Potential problem loans decreased to $86.8 million as of March 31, 2023, compared to $89.2 million as of December 31, 2022. Management continues to monitor these credits and anticipates that restructurings, guarantees, additional collateral, or other planned actions will result in full repayment of the debts. As of March 31, 2023, management identified no other loans that represent or result from trends or uncertainties which would be expected to materially impact future operating results, liquidity, or capital resources.
COVID-19 Modifications
To alleviate some of the financial hardships faced as a result of COVID-19, the Company offered a Financial Relief Program to qualifying customers. The program included options for short-term loan payment deferrals and certain fee waivers. As of March 31, 2023, the Company had no commercial loans remaining in the program, and one payment deferred retail loan representing $0.1 million in loans. In comparison, the Company had eight commercial loans on interest-only payment deferral representing $20.6 million in loans, and one payment deferred retail loans representing $0.1 million as of December 31, 2022. As these deferrals expire, the Company will continue to monitor credits for potential problem loans.
Deposits
Total deposits decreased by 2.7% to $9.8 billion as of March 31, 2023, compared to $10.1 billion as of December 31, 2022. Deposit trends were driven by a number of elements, including (i) anticipated seasonal factors, including ordinary course public fund outflows and fluctuations in the normal course of business operations of certain core commercial customers, (ii) the macroeconomic environment, including prevailing interest rates and anticipated future FOMC rate moves, as well as inflationary pressures, (iii) depositors moving some funds to accounts at competitors offering above-market rates, including state-sponsored investment programs for public sector deposits that provide rates in excess of where we can borrow in the wholesale marketplace, and (iv) deposits moving within the Busey ecosystem from the bank to our wealth management group in the first quarter of 2023.
We focus on deepening our relationships with customers to strengthen our core deposit3 franchise. Core deposits include non-brokered transaction accounts, money market deposit accounts, and time deposits of $250,000 or less. Core deposits represented 97.9% of total deposits as of March 31, 2023, compared to 98.8% as of December 31, 2022. Estimated uninsured deposits—consisting of account balances in excess of the $250 thousand FDIC insurance limit, less intercompany accounts and collateralized accounts (including preferred deposits)—represented 27% of total deposits as of March 31, 2023.
Liquidity management is the process by which we ensure that adequate liquid funds are available to meet the present and future cash flow obligations arising in the daily operations of our business. These financial obligations consist of needs for funds to meet commitments to borrowers for extensions of credit, fund capital expenditures, honor withdrawals by customers, pay dividends to stockholders, and pay operating expenses. Our most liquid assets are cash and due from banks, interest-bearing bank deposits, and federal funds sold. Balances of these assets are dependent on our operating, investing, lending, and financing activities during any given period. Average liquid assets are summarized in the table below (dollars in thousands):
Three Months Ended March 31,
2023
2022
Average liquid assets
Cash and due from banks
$
115,145
$
126,631
Interest-bearing bank deposits
108,051
$
560,824
Federal funds sold
—
—
Total average liquid assets
223,196
687,455
Average liquid assets as a percent of average total assets
1.8
%
5.4
%
Cash and unencumbered securities on our Consolidated Balance Sheets are summarized as follows (dollars in thousands):
As of
March 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
Cash and unencumbered securities
Total cash and cash equivalents
$
275,569
$
227,164
Debt securities available for sale
2,383,550
2,461,393
Debt securities available for sale pledged as collateral
(568,244)
(746,675)
Cash and unencumbered securities
$
2,090,875
$
1,941,882
First Busey’s primary sources of funds consist of deposits, investment maturities and sales, loan principal repayments, and capital funds. Additional liquidity is provided by the ability to borrow from the FHLB, the Federal Reserve, and First Busey’s revolving credit facility, as summarized in the table below (dollars in thousands):
As of
March 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
Additional borrowing capacity available from:
FHLB
$
1,442,093
$
1,765,388
Federal Reserve Bank
683,123
659,680
Federal funds purchased
482,500
482,500
Revolving credit facility
40,000
40,000
Additional borrowing capacity
$
2,647,716
$
2,947,568
Further, the company could utilize brokered deposits as additional sources of liquidity, as needed.
As of March 31, 2023, management believed that adequate liquidity existed to meet all projected cash flow obligations. We seek to achieve a satisfactory degree of liquidity by actively managing both assets and liabilities. Asset management guides the proportion of liquid assets to total assets, while liability management monitors future funding requirements and prices liabilities accordingly.
Busey Bank routinely enters into commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of its customers. The balance of commitments to extend credit represents future cash requirements and some of these commitments may expire without being drawn upon.
The following table summarizes our outstanding commitments and reserves for unfunded commitments (dollars in thousands):
As of
March 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
Outstanding loan commitments and standby letters of credit
$
2,103,910
$
2,024,777
Reserve for unfunded commitments
5,967
6,601
The following table summarizes our provision for unfunded commitments expenses (releases) for the periods presented (dollars in thousands):
Three Months Ended March 31,
2023
2022
Provision for unfunded commitments expense (release)
$
(635)
$
1,112
We anticipate we will have sufficient funds available to meet current loan commitments, including loan applications received and in process prior to the issuance of firm commitments.
CAPITAL RESOURCES
Our capital ratios are in excess of those required to be considered “well-capitalized” pursuant to applicable regulatory guidelines. The Federal Reserve Board uses capital adequacy guidelines in its examination and regulation of bank holding companies and their subsidiary banks. Risk-based capital ratios are established by allocating assets and certain off-balance-sheet commitments into risk-weighted categories. These balances are then multiplied by the factor appropriate for that risk-weighted category. In order to refrain from restrictions on dividends, equity repurchases, and discretionary bonus payments, banking institutions must maintain capital in excess of regulatory minimum capital requirements. The table below presents minimum capital ratios that include the capital conservation buffer in comparison to the capital ratios for First Busey and Busey Bank as of March 31, 2023:
Minimum Capital Requirements with Capital Buffer
As of March 31, 2023
First Busey
Busey Bank
Common Equity Tier 1 Capital to Risk Weighted Assets
7.00
%
12.18
%
14.66
%
Tier 1 Capital to Risk Weighted Assets
8.50
%
12.99
%
14.66
%
Total Capital to Risk Weighted Assets
10.50
%
16.40
%
15.59
%
Leverage Ratio of Tier 1 Capital to Average Assets
This Quarterly Report contains certain financial information determined by methods other than in accordance with GAAP. Management uses these non-GAAP financial measures and non-GAAP ratios, together with the related GAAP financial measures, in analysis of the Company’s performance and in making business decisions, as well as for comparison to the Company’s peers. The Company believes the adjusted measures are useful for investors and management to understand the effects of certain non-recurring noninterest items and provide additional perspective on the Company’s performance over time.
Non-GAAP disclosures have inherent limitations and are not audited. They should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the results reported in accordance with GAAP, nor are they necessarily comparable to non-GAAP performance measures that may be presented by other companies. Tax effected numbers included in these non-GAAP disclosures are based on estimated statutory rates and effective rates as appropriate.
A listing of the Company's non-GAAP financial measures and ratios are shown in the table below, together with the related GAAP financial measures.
RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (unaudited)
Pre-Provision Net Revenue, Adjusted Pre-Provision Net Revenue, Pre-Provision Net Revenue to Average Assets, and Adjusted Pre-Provision Net Revenue to Average Assets
(dollars in thousands)
Three Months Ended March 31,
2023
2022
PRE-PROVISION NET REVENUE
Net interest income
$
85,857
$
70,056
Total noninterest income
31,848
35,772
Net security (gains) losses
616
614
Total noninterest expense
(70,403)
(70,376)
Pre-provision net revenue
47,918
36,066
Non-GAAP adjustments:
Acquisition and other restructuring expenses
—
835
Provision for unfunded commitments
(635)
1,112
Amortization of New Markets Tax Credits
2,221
1,341
Adjusted pre-provision net revenue
$
49,504
$
39,354
Pre-provision net revenue, annualized
[a]
$
194,334
$
146,268
Adjusted pre-provision net revenue, annualized
[b]
200,766
159,602
Average total assets
[c]
12,263,718
12,660,939
Reported: Pre-provision net revenue to average assets1
[a÷c]
1.58
%
1.16
%
Adjusted: Pre-provision net revenue to average assets1
RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (unaudited)
Adjusted Net Income, Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share, Adjusted Return on Average Assets, Average Tangible Common Equity, Return on Average Tangible Common Equity, and Adjusted Return on Average Tangible Common Equity
(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)
Three Months Ended March 31,
2023
2022
NET INCOME ADJUSTED FOR NON-OPERATING ITEMS
Net income
[a]
$
36,786
$
28,439
Non-GAAP adjustments:
Acquisition expenses:
Salaries, wages, and employee benefits
—
587
Data processing
—
214
Professional fees, occupancy, and other
—
34
Related tax benefit
—
(170)
Adjusted net income
[b]
$
36,786
$
29,104
DILUTED EARNINGS PER SHARE
Diluted average common shares outstanding
[c]
56,179,606
56,194,946
Reported: Diluted earnings per share
[a÷c]
$
0.65
$
0.51
Adjusted: Diluted earnings per share
[b÷c]
$
0.65
$
0.52
RETURN ON AVERAGE ASSETS
Net income, annualized
[d]
$
149,188
$
115,336
Adjusted net income, annualized
[e]
149,188
118,033
Average total assets
[f]
12,263,718
12,660,939
Reported: Return on average assets1
[d÷f]
1.22
%
0.91
%
Adjusted: Return on average assets1
[e÷f]
1.22
%
0.93
%
RETURN ON AVERAGE TANGIBLE COMMON EQUITY
Average common equity
$
1,170,819
$
1,281,535
Average goodwill and other intangible assets, net
(363,354)
(374,811)
Average tangible common equity
[g]
$
807,465
$
906,724
Reported: Return on average tangible common equity1
[d÷g]
18.48
%
12.72
%
Adjusted: Return on average tangible common equity1
Statements made in this document, other than those concerning historical financial information, may be considered forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 with respect to First Busey’s financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance, and business. Forward-looking statements, which may be based upon beliefs, expectations, and assumptions of the Company’s management, and on information currently available to management, are generally identifiable by the use of words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “intend,” “estimate,” “may,” “will,” “would,” “could,” “should,” or other similar expressions. Additionally, all statements in this document, including forward-looking statements, speak only as of the date they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update any statement in light of new information or future events. A number of factors, many of which are beyond our ability to control or predict, could cause actual results to differ materially from those in our forward-looking statements. These factors include, among others, the following: (i) the strength of the local, state, national, and international economy (including effects of inflationary pressures and supply chain constraints); (ii) the economic impact of any future terrorist threats or attacks, widespread disease or pandemics (including the Coronavirus Disease 2019 pandemic), or other adverse external events that could cause economic deterioration or instability in credit markets (including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine); (iii) changes in state and federal laws, regulations, and governmental policies concerning First Busey’s general business (including changes in response to the recent failures of other banks); (iv) changes in accounting policies and practices (v) changes in interest rates and prepayment rates of First Busey’s assets (including the impact of the LIBOR phase-out); (vi) increased competition in the financial services sector (including from non-bank competitors such as credit unions and fintech companies) and the inability to attract new customers; (vii) changes in technology and the ability to develop and maintain secure and reliable electronic systems; (viii) the loss of key executives or associates; (ix) changes in consumer spending; (x) unexpected results of current and/or future acquisitions, which may include failure to realize the anticipated benefits of any acquisition and the possibility that transaction costs may be greater than anticipated; (xi) unexpected outcomes of existing or new litigation involving First Busey; (xii) fluctuations in the value of securities held in our securities portfolio; (xiii) concentrations within our loan portfolio, large loans to certain borrowers, and large deposits from certain clients; (xiv) the concentration of large deposits from certain clients who have balances above current FDIC insurance limits and may withdraw deposits to diversify their exposure; (xv) the level of non-performing assets on our balance sheets; (xvi) interruptions involving our information technology and communications systems or third-party servicers; (xvii) breaches or failures of our information security controls or cybersecurity-related incidents; and (xviii) the economic impact of exceptional weather occurrences such as tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, and blizzards. These risks and uncertainties should be considered in evaluating forward-looking statements and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements. Additional information concerning First Busey and our business, including additional factors that could materially affect our financial results, is included in our filings with the SEC.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES
First Busey has established various accounting policies that govern the application of GAAP in the preparation of its unaudited consolidated financial statements. Significant accounting policies are described in “Note 1. Significant Accounting Policies” of the Company’s 2022 Annual Report.
Critical accounting estimates are those that are critical to the portrayal and understanding of First Busey’s financial condition and results of operations and require management to make assumptions that are difficult, subjective, or complex. These estimates involve judgments, assumptions, and uncertainties that are susceptible to change. In the event that different assumptions or conditions were to prevail, and depending on the severity of such changes, the possibility of a materially different financial condition or materially different results of operations is a reasonable likelihood. Further, changes in accounting standards could impact our critical accounting estimates. Management has reviewed these critical accounting estimates and related disclosures with our Audit Committee. The following accounting policies could be deemed critical:
Fair Value of Debt Securities Available for Sale
Fair values of debt securities available for sale are measurements from an independent pricing service and are based on observable data that may include dealer quotes, market spreads, cash flows, the U.S. Treasury yield curve, live trading levels, trade execution data, market consensus prepayment speeds, credit information, and the security’s terms and conditions, among other things. Different fair value estimates could result from the use of different judgments and estimates to determine the fair values of securities.
Realized securities gains or losses are reported in the unaudited Consolidated Statements of Income. The cost of securities sold is based on the specific identification method.
A debt security available for sale is impaired if the fair value of the security declines below its amortized cost basis. To determine the appropriate accounting, we must first determine if we intend to sell the security or if it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security before the fair value increases to at least the amortized cost basis. If either of those selling events is expected, we will write down the amortized cost basis of the security to its fair value. This is achieved by writing off any previously recorded allowance related to the debt security, if applicable, and recognizing any incremental impairment through earnings. If we do not intend to sell the security, nor believe it more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security before the fair value recovers to the amortized cost basis, we must determine whether any of the decline in fair value has resulted from a credit loss, or if it is entirely the result of noncredit factors.
We consider the following factors in assessing whether the decline is due to a credit loss:
•Extent to which the fair value is less than the amortized cost basis;
•Adverse conditions specifically related to the security, an industry, or a geographic area (for example, changes in the financial condition of the issuer of the security, or in the case of an asset-backed debt security, in the financial condition of the underlying loan obligors);
•Payment structure of the debt security and the likelihood of the issuer being able to make payments that increase in the future;
•Failure of the issuer of the security to make scheduled interest or principal payments; and
•Any changes to the rating of the security by a rating agency.
Impairment related to a credit loss must be measured using the discounted cash flow method. Credit loss recognition is limited to the fair value of the security. Impairment is recognized by establishing an allowance for the debt security through the provision for credit losses. Impairment related to noncredit factors is recognized in AOCI, net of applicable taxes.
Fair Value of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed in Business Combinations
Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting. Under the acquisition method of accounting, assets acquired and liabilities assumed are recorded at their estimated fair value on the date of acquisition. Fair values are determined based on the definition of “fair value” defined in ASC Topic 820 “Fair Value Measurement” as “the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.”
The fair value of a loan portfolio acquired in a business combination generally requires greater levels of management estimates and judgment than other assets acquired or liabilities assumed. Acquired loans are in the scope of ASC Topic 326 “Financial Instruments—Credit Losses.” However, the offset to record the allowance on acquired loans at the date of acquisition depends on whether or not the loan is classified as PCD. The allowance for PCD loans is recorded through a gross-up effect, while the allowance for acquired non-PCD loans is recorded through provision expense, consistent with originated loans. Thus, the determination of which loans are PCD and non-PCD can have a significant effect on the accounting for these loans.
Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of purchase price over the fair value of net assets acquired using the acquisition method of accounting. Determining the fair value often involves estimates based on third-party valuations, such as appraisals, or internal valuations based on discounted cash flow analyses or other valuation techniques. Goodwill is not amortized. Instead, we assess the potential for impairment on an annual basis or more frequently if events and circumstances indicate that goodwill might be impaired.
First Busey estimates income tax expense based on amounts expected to be owed to federal and state tax jurisdictions. Estimated income tax expense is reported in the unaudited Consolidated Statements of Income. Accrued and deferred taxes, as reported in other assets or other liabilities in the unaudited Consolidated Balance Sheets, represent the net estimated amount due to or to be received from taxing jurisdictions either currently or in the future. Management judgment is involved in estimating accrued and deferred taxes, as it may be necessary to evaluate the risks and merits of the tax treatment of transactions, filing positions, and taxable income calculations after considering tax-related statutes, regulations, and other relevant factors. Because of the complexity of tax laws and interpretations, interpretation is subject to judgment.
Allowance for Credit Losses
First Busey calculates the ACL at each reporting date. We recognize an allowance for the lifetime expected credit losses for the amount we do not expect to collect. Measurement of expected credit losses is based on relevant information about past events, including historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the collectability of the reported book value. The calculation also contemplates that First Busey may not be able to make or obtain such forecasts for the entire life of the financial assets and requires a reversion to historical credit loss information.
In determining the ACL, management relies predominantly on a disciplined credit review and approval process that extends to the full range of First Busey’s credit exposure. The ACL must be determined on a collective (pool) basis when similar risk characteristics exist. On a case-by-case basis, we may conclude a loan should be evaluated on an individual basis based on disparate risk characteristics.
Loans deemed uncollectible are charged against and reduce the ACL. A provision for credit losses is charged to current expense and acts to replenish the ACL in order to maintain the ACL at a level that management deems adequate. Determining the ACL involves significant judgments and assumptions by management. Because of the nature of the judgments and assumptions made by management, actual results may differ from these judgments and assumptions.
ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Market risk is the risk of changes in asset values due to movements in underlying market rates and prices. Interest rate risk is a type of market risk to earnings and capital arising from movements in interest rates. Interest rate risk is the most significant market risk affecting First Busey as other types of market risk, such as foreign currency exchange rate risk and commodity price risk, have minimal impact or do not arise in the normal course of First Busey’s business activities.
First Busey has an asset-liability committee, whose policy is to meet at least quarterly, to review current market conditions and to structure the Consolidated Balance Sheets to optimize stability in net interest income in consideration of projected future changes in interest rates.
As interest rate changes do not impact all categories of assets and liabilities equally or simultaneously, the asset-liability committee primarily relies on balance sheet and income simulation analysis to determine the potential impact of changes in market interest rates on net interest income. In these standard simulation models, the balance sheet is projected over a one-year and a two-year time horizon and net interest income is calculated under current market rates and assuming permanent instantaneous shifts of +/-100, +/-200, +/-300, and +/-400 basis points. The model assumes immediate and sustained shifts in the federal funds rate and other market rate indices and corresponding shifts in other non-market rate indices based on their historical changes relative to changes in the federal funds rate and other market indices. Assets and liabilities are assumed to remain constant as of the measurement date; variable-rate assets and liabilities are repriced based on repricing frequency; and prepayment speeds on loans are projected for both declining and rising rate environments.
The interest rate risk of First Busey as a result of immediate and sustained changes in interest rates, expressed as a change in net interest income as a percentage of the net interest income calculated in the constant base model, was as follows:
Interest rate risk is monitored and managed within approved policy limits and any temporary exceptions to policy in periods of rapid rate movement are approved and documented. The calculation of potential effects of hypothetical interest rate changes is based on numerous assumptions and should not be relied upon as indicative of actual results. Actual results would likely differ from simulated results due to the timing, magnitude, and frequency of interest rate changes as well as changes in market conditions and management strategies.
ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
An evaluation of our disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act, was carried out as of March 31, 2023, under the supervision and with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, and several other members of our senior management. Based on this evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of March 31, 2023, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective in ensuring that the information we are required to disclose in the reports we file or submit under the Exchange Act was (i) accumulated and communicated to our management (including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer) to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure, and (ii) recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
During the three months ended March 31, 2023, no change occurred in our internal control over financial reporting that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
As part of the ordinary course of business, First Busey and its subsidiaries are parties to litigation that is incidental to their regular business activities.
There is no material pending litigation, other than ordinary routine litigation incidental to its business, in which First Busey or any of its subsidiaries is involved or of which any of their property is the subject. Furthermore, there is no pending legal proceeding that is adverse to First Busey in which any director, officer, or affiliate of First Busey, or any associate of any such director or officer, is a party, or has a material interest.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
There have been no material changes to the risk factors disclosed in Part I—Item 1A of First Busey’s 2022 Annual Report.
ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
On February 3, 2015, First Busey’s board of directors authorized the Company to repurchase up to an aggregate of 666,667 shares of its common stock. The repurchase plan has no expiration date. On May 22, 2019, First Busey’s board of directors approved an amendment to increase the authorized shares under the repurchase program by 1,000,000 shares, and on February 5, 2020, First Busey’s board of directors approved another amendment to increase the authorized shares under the repurchase program by an additional 2,000,000 shares. During the first quarter of 2023, the Company purchased 25,000 shares under the plan. As of March 31, 2023, the Company had 122,210 shares that may still be purchased under the plan.
Period
Total Number of Shares Purchased
Weighted Average Price Paid per Common Share
Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs
Maximum Number of Shares That May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs
Pursuant to the requirements of the Exchange Act, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
Date: May 4, 2023
FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION
(Registrant)
By:
/s/ VAN A. DUKEMAN
Van A. Dukeman
Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer)