Biggest changeThe yields set forth below include the effect of deferred fees, discounts and premiums that are amortized or accreted to interest income or expense. 20 For the Years Ended December 31, 2023 2022 Average Balance Interest Income/ Expense Yield/ Cost Average Balance Interest Income/ Expense Yield/ Cost ( Dollars in thousands) Assets Loans (1) (2) $ 1,782,055 $ 106,061 5.95 % $ 1,580,318 $ 82,900 5.25 % Investment securities 25,168 1,048 4.16 % 25,922 772 2.98 % Deposits with banks 114,880 5,595 4.87 % 338,277 3,811 1.13 % Total interest-earning assets 1,922,103 $ 112,704 5.86 % 1,944,517 $ 87,483 4.50 % Non-interest earning assets 78,253 79,869 Allowance for credit losses (31,965) (30,449) Total assets $ 1,968,391 $ 1,993,937 Liabilities and Equity Interest bearing deposits NOWs $ 86,932 $ 1,377 1.58 % $ 92,535 $ 417 0.45 % Money markets 403,292 17,120 4.25 % 352,339 3,927 1.11 % Savings 127,442 1,486 1.17 % 195,029 905 0.46 % Time deposits 498,089 15,232 3.06 % 514,421 4,890 0.95 % Brokered certificates of deposit 121,702 6,044 4.97 % 26,785 932 3.48 % Total interest-bearing deposits 1,237,457 41,259 3.33 % 1,181,109 11,071 0.94 % Borrowings 170,093 7,231 4.25 % 119,422 3,085 2.58 % Total interest-bearing liabilities 1,407,550 $ 48,490 3.44 % 1,300,531 $ 14,156 1.09 % Non-interest bearing deposits 265,148 428,549 Other liabilities 16,802 14,389 Total liabilities 1,689,500 1,743,469 Equity 278,891 250,468 Total liabilities and equity $ 1,968,391 $ 1,993,937 Net interest income $ 64,214 $ 73,327 Interest rate spread 2.42 % 3.41 % Net interest margin 3.34 % 3.77 % (1) Interest income includes $3.8 million and $5.0 million of net fee income for the years ended 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Biggest changeThe yields set forth below include the effect of deferred fees, discounts and premiums that are amortized or accreted to interest income or expense. 20 For the Years Ended December 31, 2024 2023 Average Balance Interest Income/ Expense Yield/ Cost Average Balance Interest Income/ Expense Yield/ Cost ( Dollars in thousands) Assets Loans (1) (2) $ 1,810,931 $ 117,834 6.51 % $ 1,782,055 $ 106,061 5.95 % Investment securities 23,679 1,042 4.40 % 25,168 1,048 4.16 % Deposits with banks 124,037 6,237 5.03 % 114,880 5,595 4.87 % Total interest-earning assets 1,958,647 $ 125,113 6.39 % 1,922,103 $ 112,704 5.86 % Non-interest earning assets 65,939 78,253 Allowance for credit losses (32,321) (31,965) Total assets $ 1,992,265 $ 1,968,391 Liabilities and Equity Interest bearing deposits NOWs $ 63,871 $ 618 0.97 % $ 86,932 $ 1,377 1.58 % Money markets 583,158 27,812 4.77 % 403,292 17,120 4.25 % Savings 66,369 750 1.13 % 127,442 1,486 1.17 % Time deposits 442,664 19,099 4.31 % 498,089 15,232 3.06 % Brokered certificates of deposit 170,454 9,033 5.30 % 121,702 6,044 4.97 % Total interest-bearing deposits 1,326,516 57,312 4.32 % 1,237,457 41,259 3.33 % Borrowings 165,753 9,093 5.49 % 170,093 7,231 4.25 % Total interest-bearing liabilities 1,492,269 $ 66,405 4.45 % 1,407,550 $ 48,490 3.44 % Non-interest bearing deposits 187,588 265,148 Other liabilities 18,261 16,802 Total liabilities 1,698,118 1,689,500 Equity 294,147 278,891 Total liabilities and equity $ 1,992,265 $ 1,968,391 Net interest income $ 58,708 $ 64,214 Interest rate spread 1.94 % 2.42 % Net interest margin 3.00 % 3.34 % (1) Interest income includes $3.6 million and $3.8 million of net fee income for the years ended 2024 and 2023, respectively.
The asset mix of the balance sheet is continually evaluated in terms of several variables: yield, credit quality, appropriate funding sources and liquidity. Management of the liability mix of the balance sheet focuses on expanding the various funding sources. 26 In theory, interest rate risk can be diminished by maintaining a nominal level of interest rate sensitivity.
The asset mix of the balance sheet is continually evaluated in terms of several variables: yield, credit quality, appropriate funding sources and liquidity. Management of the liability mix of the balance sheet focuses on expanding the various funding sources. In theory, interest rate risk can be diminished by maintaining a nominal level of interest rate sensitivity.
The Company's results of operations are dependent primarily on its net interest income, which is the difference between the interest income earned on its interest earning-assets and the 19 interest expense paid on its interest-bearing liabilities. In our operations, we have three major lines of lending: residential real estate mortgage, commercial real estate mortgage, and construction lending.
The Company's results of operations are dependent primarily on its net interest income, which is the difference between the interest income earned on its interest earning-assets and the interest expense paid on its interest-bearing liabilities. In our operations, we have three major lines of lending: residential real estate mortgage, commercial real estate mortgage, and construction lending.
Our interest income is primarily generated from our lending and investment activities. Our deposit products include checking, savings, money market accounts, and certificates of deposit. The majority of our deposit accounts are obtained through our retail banking business, which provides us with low cost funding to grow our lending efforts.
Our interest income is primarily generated from our lending and investment activities. Our deposit products include checking, savings, money market accounts, and certificates 19 of deposit. The majority of our deposit accounts are obtained through our retail banking business, which provides us with low cost funding to grow our lending efforts.
In addition, we manage the potential risk in commitments to lend by limiting the total amount of commitments, by monitoring maturity structure of these commitments and by applying the same credit standards for these commitments as for all of our credit activities. 27 For commitments to lend, we generally require collateral or a guarantee.
In addition, we manage the potential risk in commitments to lend by limiting the total amount of commitments, by monitoring maturity structure of these commitments and by applying the same credit standards for these commitments as for all of our credit activities. For commitments to lend, we generally require collateral or a guarantee.
When we make commitments, we are exposed to credit risk. However, the maximum credit risk for these commitments will generally be lower than the contractual amount because a significant portion of these commitments is expected to expire without being used by the customer.
When we make commitments, we are exposed to credit risk. However, the maximum credit risk for 27 these commitments will generally be lower than the contractual amount because a significant portion of these commitments is expected to expire without being used by the customer.
As of December 31, 2023 3 Months or Less Over 3 Months Through 12 Months Over 1 Year Through 3 Years Over 3 Years Through 5 Years Over 5 Years Total (Dollars in thousands) Interest-earning assets: Loans (1) $ 283,271 $ 446,949 $ 785,851 $ 212,231 $ 49,112 $ 1,777,414 Investment securities 8,127 1,442 3,676 4,049 7,272 24,566 Cash and cash equivalents 167,659 — — — — 167,659 Total interest-earning assets $ 459,057 $ 448,391 $ 789,527 $ 216,280 $ 56,384 $ 1,969,639 Interest-bearing liabilities: NOW, Saving and Money market deposits $ 33,543 $ 100,627 $ 345,578 $ 203,450 $ 30,370 $ 713,568 Retail time deposits 153,882 257,720 35,947 2,937 — 450,486 Brokered time deposits 106,692 49,150 742 — — 156,584 Borrowed funds 43,403 — 95,000 — 30,000 168,403 Total interest-bearing liabilities $ 337,520 $ 407,497 $ 477,267 $ 206,387 $ 60,370 $ 1,489,041 Interest rate sensitive gap $ 121,537 $ 40,894 $ 312,260 $ 9,893 $ (3,986) $ 480,598 Cumulative interest rate gap $ 121,537 $ 162,431 $ 474,691 $ 484,584 $ 480,598 $ — Ratio of rate-sensitive assets to rate-sensitive liabilities 136.0 % 110.0 % 165.4 % 104.8 % 93.4 % 132.3 % Cumulative interest sensitivity gap to total assets 6.0 % 8.0 % 23.5 % 23.9 % 23.8 % — (1) Loan balances exclude nonaccruing loans, deferred fees and costs, and loan discounts.
As of December 31, 2024 3 Months or Less Over 3 Months Through 12 Months Over 1 Year Through 3 Years Over 3 Years Through 5 Years Over 5 Years Total (Dollars in thousands) Interest-earning assets: Loans (1) $ 283,271 $ 446,949 $ 785,851 $ 212,231 $ 49,112 $ 1,777,414 Investment securities 8,127 1,442 3,676 4,049 7,272 24,566 Cash and cash equivalents 167,659 — — — — 167,659 Total interest-earning assets $ 459,057 $ 448,391 $ 789,527 $ 216,280 $ 56,384 $ 1,969,639 Interest-bearing liabilities: NOW, Saving and Money market deposits $ 33,543 $ 100,627 $ 345,578 $ 203,450 $ 30,370 $ 713,568 Retail time deposits 153,882 257,720 35,947 2,937 — 450,486 Brokered time deposits 106,692 49,150 742 — — 156,584 Borrowed funds 43,403 — 95,000 — 30,000 168,403 Total interest-bearing liabilities $ 337,520 $ 407,497 $ 477,267 $ 206,387 $ 60,370 $ 1,489,041 Interest rate sensitive gap $ 121,537 $ 40,894 $ 312,260 $ 9,893 $ (3,986) $ 480,598 Cumulative interest rate gap $ 121,537 $ 162,431 $ 474,691 $ 484,584 $ 480,598 $ — Ratio of rate-sensitive assets to rate-sensitive liabilities 136.0 % 110.0 % 165.4 % 104.8 % 93.4 % 132.3 % Cumulative interest sensitivity gap to total assets 5.7 % 7.6 % 22.2 % 22.6 % 22.4 % — (1) Loan balances exclude non-accruing loans, deferred fees and costs, and loan discounts.
The interest rate sensitivity position as of December 31, 2023 is presented in the following table. Assets and liabilities are scheduled based on maturity or re-pricing data except for mortgage loans and mortgage-backed securities, which are based on prevailing prepayment assumptions and expected maturities and deposits which are based on recent retention experience of core deposits.
The interest rate sensitivity position as of December 31, 2024 is presented in the following table. Assets and liabilities are scheduled based on maturity or re-pricing data except for mortgage loans and mortgage-backed securities, which are based on prevailing prepayment assumptions and expected maturities and deposits which are based on recent retention experience of core deposits.
Capital Adequacy Consistent with the goal to operate a sound and profitable financial organization, the Company and Bank actively seeks to maintain their status as well-capitalized in accordance with regulatory standards. As of December 31, 2023, the Company and the Bank exceeded all applicable regulatory capital requirements.
Capital Adequacy Consistent with the goal to operate a sound and profitable financial organization, the Company and Bank actively seeks to maintain their status as well-capitalized in accordance with regulatory standards. As of December 31, 2024, the Company and the Bank exceeded all applicable regulatory capital requirements.
Comparative Average Balances, Yields and Rates The following table presents the average daily balances of assets, liabilities and equity and the respective interest earned or paid on interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, as well as average annualized rates, for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022.
Comparative Average Balances, Yields and Rates The following table presents the average daily balances of assets, liabilities and equity and the respective interest earned or paid on interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, as well as average annualized rates, for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023.
The fee income for the year ended December 31, 2023 from the commercial deposit accounts of depositors who do business in the cannabis industry totaled $3.4 million and is included in service fees on deposit accounts in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. Such deposit fee income totaled $4.4 million during the year ended December 31, 2022.
The fee income for the year ended December 31, 2024 from the commercial deposit accounts of depositors who do business in the cannabis industry totaled $1.1 million and is included in service fees on deposit accounts in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. Such deposit fee income totaled $3.4 million during the year ended December 31, 2023.
At December 31, 2023, we had contractual obligations primarily relating to commitments to extent credits, deposits, secured and unsecured borrowings, and operating leases. We have adequate resources to fund all unfunded commitments to the extent required and meet all contractual obligations as they come due.
At December 31, 2024, we had contractual obligations primarily relating to commitments to extend credits, deposits, secured and unsecured borrowings, and operating leases. We have adequate resources to fund all unfunded commitments to the extent required and meet all contractual obligations as they come due.
At December 31, 2023, our cash position was $180.4 million. We invest cash that is in excess of our immediate operating needs primarily in our interest-bearing account at the Federal Reserve. Our primary source of funding has been deposits. Funds from other operations, financing arrangements, investment securities available-for-sale also provide significant sources of funding.
At December 31, 2024, our cash position was $221.5 million. We invest cash that is in excess of our immediate operating needs primarily in our interest-bearing account at the Federal Reserve. Our primary source of funding has been deposits. Funds from other operations, financing arrangements, investment securities available-for-sale also provide significant sources of funding.
The credit risk involved in issuing letters of credit is essentially the same as that involved in extending loan facilities to customers. At December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, standby letters of credit with customers were $1.5 million and $1.5 million, respectively.
The credit risk involved in issuing letters of credit is essentially the same as that involved in extending loan facilities to customers. At December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, standby letters of credit with customers were $0.6 million and $1.5 million, respectively.
Such commitments have historically been drawn at only a fraction of the total commitment. Since many of the commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements. The funding requirements for such commitments occur on a measured basis over time and would be funded by normal deposit growth.
Since many of the commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements. The funding requirements for such commitments occur on a measured basis over time and would be funded by normal deposit growth.
At December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, unused commitments to extend credit amounted to approximately $93.8 million and $159.0 million, respectively. Commitments to fund fixed-rate loans were immaterial at December 31, 2023. Variable-rate commitments are generally issued for less than one year and carry market rates of interest.
At December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, unused commitments to extend credit amounted to approximately $122.5 million and $93.8 million, respectively. Commitments to fund fixed-rate loans were immaterial at December 31, 2024. Variable-rate commitments are generally issued for less than one year and carry market rates of interest.
The Company also generates income from loan and deposit fees and other non-interest related activities. The Company's non-interest expense primarily consists of employee compensation, administration, and other operating expenses. As of December 31, 2023, we had total assets of $2.02 billion, total liabilities of $1.74 billion, and total shareholders' equity of $284.3 million.
The Company also generates income from loan and deposit fees and other non-interest related activities. The Company's non-interest expense primarily consists of employee compensation, administration, and other operating expenses. As of December 31, 2024, we had total assets of $2.14 billion, total liabilities of $1.84 billion, and total shareholders' equity of $300.1 million.
The increase in total shareholders' equity was primarily due to the retention of earnings from the period, partially offset by the recognition of $8.6 million of cash dividends. 25 Liquidity and Capital Resources Liquidity is a measure of our ability to generate cash to support asset growth, meet deposit withdrawals, satisfy other contractual obligations, and otherwise operate on an ongoing basis.
The increase in total shareholders' equity was primarily due to the retention of earnings from the period, partially offset by the recognition of $8.6 million of cash dividend, and repurchases of shares of the Company's common stock in the amount of $4.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2024. 25 Liquidity and Capital Resources Liquidity is a measure of our ability to generate cash to support asset growth, meet deposit withdrawals, satisfy other contractual obligations, and otherwise operate on an ongoing basis.
Results of Operations Net Income We recorded net income available to common shareholders of $28.4 million or $2.38 per basic common share and $2.35 per diluted common share, for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to $41.8 million, or $3.51 per basic common share and $3.44 per diluted common share, for the year ended December 31, 2022, a decrease of $13.4 million or 32.0%.
Results of Operations Net Income We recorded net income available to common shareholders of $27.5 million or $2.30 per basic common share and $2.27 per diluted common share, for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to $28.4 million, or $2.38 per basic common share and $2.35 per diluted common share, for the year ended December 31, 2023, a decrease of $0.9 million or 3.3%.
We recorded a recovery for credit losses of $2.1 million and a provision for loan losses of $1.8 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively. The (recovery) provision for credit losses as a percentage of interest income was (1.82)% and 2.06% in 2023 and 2022, respectively.
We recorded a provision for credit losses of $0.7 million and a recovery for credit losses of $2.1 million in 2024 and 2023, respectively. The provision (recovery) for credit losses as a percentage of interest income was 0.58% and 1.82% in 2024 and 2023, respectively.
For more information about our provision and allowance for credit losses and our loss experience, see “Risk Management and Asset Quality-Allowance for Credit Losses” and NOTE 4. Loans and Allowance for Credit Losses in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
For more information about our provision and allowance for credit losses and our loss experience, see “Risk Management and Asset Quality-Allowance for Credit Losses” and NOTE 4.
Rate/Volume Analysis For each category of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, information is provided on changes attributable to (i) changes in volume ( i.e. , changes in volume multiplied by the previous rate) and (ii) changes in rate ( i.e. , changes in rate multiplied by old volume).
We expect net interest income and our net interest margin to fluctuate based on changes in interest rates and changes in the amount and composition of our interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities. 21 Rate/Volume Analysis For each category of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, information is provided on changes attributable to (i) changes in volume ( i.e. , changes in volume multiplied by the previous rate) and (ii) changes in rate ( i.e. , changes in rate multiplied by old volume).
Net Interest Income Net interest income decreased $9.1 million, or 12.4%, to $64.2 million for the year ended 2023 compared to $73.3 million for the year ended 2022. The decrease in net interest income was primarily due to an increase in interest expense of $34.3 million, partially offset by an increase in interest income of $25.2 million.
Net Interest Income Net interest income decreased $5.5 million, or 8.6%, to $58.7 million for the year ended 2024 compared to $64.2 million for the year ended 2023. The decrease in net interest income was primarily due to an increase in interest expense of $17.9 million, partially offset by an increase in interest income of $12.4 million.
Our provision for credit losses decreased by $3.9 million in 2023 compared to 2022 primarily as a result of a decrease in vintage loss rates and a change in the loan portfolio mix, partially offset by an increase in outstanding loan balances. Additionally, the provision for unfunded commitments contributed to $461.0 thousand of the decrease.
Our provision for credit losses increased by $2.8 million in 2024 compared to 2023 primarily as a result of an increase in outstanding loan balances, partially offset by a decrease in loss rates. Additionally, the provision for unfunded commitments contributed to $369.0 thousand of the increase.
The decrease in deposits was primarily attributed to a decrease in non-interest bearing demand deposits of $120.4 million, savings of $105.1 million, time deposits of $42.2 million, and interest checking of $20.1 million 24 partially offset by an increase in money market of $218.4 million, and brokered CD balances of $46.2 million.
The increase in deposits was primarily attributed to an increase in time deposits of $108.1 million, and money market deposits of $48.4 million, partially offset by a decrease in non-interest bearing demand deposits of $48.2 million, and savings deposits of $27.6 million.
These evaluations are inherently subjective, as they require material estimates and may be susceptible to significant change. Our allowance for credit losses is comprised of two components, a specific allowance and a general calculation. A specific allowance is calculated for loans and leases that do not share similar risk characteristics with other financial assets, and include collateral dependent loans.
These critical estimates include significant use of our own historical data and other qualitative, and quantitative data. These evaluations are inherently subjective, as they require material estimates and may be susceptible to significant change. Our allowance for credit losses is comprised of two components, a specific allowance and a general calculation.
The measurement of our interest rate sensitivity, or "gap," is one of the principal techniques used in asset/liability management. Interest sensitive gap is the dollar difference between assets and liabilities that are subject to interest-rate pricing within a given time period, including both floating rate or adjustable rate instruments and instruments that are approaching maturity.
Interest sensitive gap is the dollar difference between assets and liabilities that are subject to interest-rate pricing within a given time period, including both floating rate or adjustable rate instruments and instruments that are approaching maturity. 26 Our management and the Board of Directors oversee the asset/liability management function through the asset/liability committee of the Board that meets periodically to monitor and manage the balance sheet, control interest rate exposure, and evaluate our pricing strategies.
Our risk based tier 1 capital ratio was 20.8% at December 31, 2023. In addition, during 2023 we returned $8.6 million of capital to our common shareholders through common stock dividends. Our business operations are subject to risks and uncertainties that could materially affect our operating results.
In addition, during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024 we returned $8.6 million of capital to our common shareholders through cash dividends, and we repurchased 200,000 common stock shares at a total cost of $4.3 million. Our business operations are subject to risks and uncertainties that could materially affect our operating results.
Total loans outstanding increased $35.9 million at December 31, 2023, primarily due to an increase in residential 1 to 4 family loans of $29.0 million; residential 1 to 4 family investment loans of $24.0 million; and commercial owner occupied loans of $15.7 million; partially offset by a decrease in construction loans of $34.8 million.
Cash and cash equivalents increased $41.2 million, to $221.5 million at December 31, 2024. Total loans outstanding increased $80.8 million at December 31, 2024, primarily due to an increase in residential multi-family loans of $71.4 million, and commercial owner-occupied loans of $18.7 million, partially offset by a decrease in construction loans of $8.2 million.
Interest income for 2023 increased to $112.7 million, an increase of $25.2 million, or 28.8%, from $87.5 million for 2022, primarily due to an increase in interest and fees on loans of $23.2 million, or 27.9%.
Interest income for 2024 increased to $125.1 million, an increase of $12.4 million, or 11.0%, from $112.7 million for 2023, primarily due to an increase in interest and fees on loans of $11.8 million, or 11.1%.
Total liabilities were $1.74 billion at December 31, 2023. This represented a $20.3 million, or 1.2%, increase from $1.72 billion at December 31, 2022. The increase in total liabilities was primarily due to an increase in borrowings, partially offset by a decrease in deposits.
Total liabilities were $1.84 billion at December 31, 2024. This represented a $103.0 million, or 5.9%, increase from $1.74 billion at December 31, 2023. The increase in total liabilities was primarily due to an increase in deposits. Total deposits increased $78.2 million, or 5.0%, to $1.63 billion at December 31, 2024, from $1.55 billion at December 31, 2023.
Non-interest Income The table below shows the components of non-interest income for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022. 2023 2022 $ Change % Change ( Dollars in thousands) Service fees on deposit accounts $ 3,872 $ 4,927 $ (1,055) (21.4) % Other Loan fees 851 1,379 (528) (38.3) % Bank owned life insurance income 737 568 169 29.8 % Gain on sale of SBA loans — 98 (98) (100.0) % Gain on sale and valuation adjustments of OREO 38 328 (290) (88.4) % Other 1,194 1,082 112 10.4 % Total non-interest income $ 6,692 $ 8,382 $ (1,690) (20.2) % 22 Non-interest income decreased by $1.7 million to $6.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to 2022, primarily due to a decrease in fee income related to commercial deposit accounts and other loan fees, partially offset by an increase in income earned on bank owned life insurance.
Loans and Allowance for Credit Losses in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements. 22 Non-interest Income The table below shows the components of non-interest income for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023. 2024 2023 $ Change % Change ( Dollars in thousands) Service fees on deposit accounts $ 1,387 $ 3,872 $ (2,485) (64.2) % Other Loan fees 849 851 (2) (0.2) % Bank owned life insurance income 655 737 (82) (11.1) % Gain on sale of SBA loans 23 — 23 100.0 % Gain on sale and valuation adjustments of OREO — 38 (38) (100.0) % Other 1,387 1,194 193 16.2 % Total non-interest income $ 4,301 $ 6,692 $ (2,391) (35.7) % Non-interest income decreased by $2.4 million to $4.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to 2023, primarily due to a decrease in fee income related to cannabis related business deposit fees and other loan fees.
The Company believes that the following discussion addresses the Company’s most critical accounting policies, which are those that are most important to the portrayal of the Company’s financial condition and results of operations and require management’s most difficult, subjective and complex judgments.
The Company believes that the following discussion addresses the Company’s most critical accounting policies, which are those that are most important to the portrayal of the Company’s financial condition and results of operations and require management’s most difficult, subjective and complex judgments. 28 Allowance for Credit Losses : Our allowances for credit losses represents management's best estimate of probable losses inherent in our investment and loan portfolios, excluding those loans accounted for under fair value.
Non-Interest Expense The following table displays the components of non-interest expense for 2023 and 2022. 2023 2022 $ Change % Change ( Dollars in thousands) Compensation and benefits $ 12,340 $ 10,835 $ 1,505 13.9 % Professional services 2,328 2,249 79 3.5 % Occupancy and equipment 2,604 2,522 82 3.3 % Data processing 1,385 1,293 92 7.1 % FDIC insurance and other assessments 1,292 1,050 242 23.0 % OREO expense 839 493 346 70.2 % Other operating expense 14,479 5,391 9,088 168.6 % Total non-interest expense $ 35,267 $ 23,833 $ 11,434 48.0 % Non-interest expense increased $11.4 million to $35.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, from $23.8 million for 2022 primarily due to an increase in other operating expense of $9.1 million, an increase in compensation and benefits of $1.5 million, and an increase in OREO expense of $0.3 million.
Non-Interest Expense The following table displays the components of non-interest expense for 2024 and 2023. 2024 2023 $ Change % Change ( Dollars in thousands) Compensation and benefits $ 12,768 $ 12,340 $ 428 3.5 % Professional services 2,730 2,328 402 17.3 % Occupancy and equipment 2,598 2,604 (6) (0.2) % Data processing 1,366 1,385 (19) (1.4) % FDIC insurance and other assessments 1,306 1,292 14 1.1 % OREO expense 835 839 (4) (0.5) % Other operating expense 4,381 14,479 (10,098) (69.7) % Total non-interest expense $ 25,984 $ 35,267 $ (9,283) (26.3) % Non-interest expense decreased $9.3 million to $26.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, from $35.3 million for 2023 primarily due to a decrease in other operating expense of $10.1 million, partially offset by an increase in compensation and benefits of $0.4 million, and an increase in professional services of $0.4 million.
The increase in compensation and benefits was primarily due to a $0.5 million increase in salaries, and a $0.9 million decrease in deferred loan origination costs, attributable to a reduction in the number of loans originated. The increase in OREO expense is due to higher costs to maintain the Company's OREO inventory.
The increase in compensation and benefits during the year ended December 31, 2024, was primarily due to a $0.4 million increase in salaries, and a $0.2 million decrease in deferred loan origination costs attributable to a reduction in the number of loans originated, partially offset by a $0.2 million decrease in SERP expense.
Borrowings At December 31, 2023, total borrowings increased $42.0 million to $168.1 million at December 31, 2023, from $126.1 million at December 31, 2022. The increase in borrowings was primarily due to an increase in FHLBNY advances of $41.9 million.
The increase in borrowings was primarily due to an increase in FHLBNY advances of $20.0 million. Equity Total shareholders’ equity increased to $300.1 million at December 31, 2024, from $284.3 million at December 31, 2023, an increase of $15.8 million or 5.5%.
In addition, a decrease in non-interest bearing demand balances and an increase in brokered deposit balances contributed to the increase in interest expense during the 2023 fiscal year..
The increase in interest expense was primarily due to an increase in market interest rates on deposit accounts at the Bank, as well as a change in the deposit mix. In addition, a decrease in non-interest bearing demand balances and an increase in interest-bearing deposit balances contributed to the increase in interest expense during the 2024 fiscal year..
Financial Condition General At December 31, 2023, the Company’s total assets were $2.02 billion, an increase of $38.6 million or 1.9%, from December 31, 2022. The increase in total assets was primarily attributable to an increase in loans, restricted stock, and other assets. Cash and cash equivalents decreased $1.8 million, to $180.4 million at December 31, 2023.
The effective income tax rates for 2024 and 2023 were 24.2% and 24.5%, respectively. Financial Condition General At December 31, 2024, the Company’s total assets were $2.14 billion, an increase of $118.7 million or 5.9%, from December 31, 2023. The increase in total assets was primarily attributable to an increase in cash and cash equivalents and total loans outstanding.
Investment securities Total investment securities decreased to $16.4 million at December 31, 2023, from $18.7 million at December 31, 2022, a decrease of $2.4 million or 12.6%. The decrease was primarily due to pay downs of $2.5 million, partially offset by a $0.1 million valuation increase.
The increase was mainly due to an increase in deposits and borrowings, partially offset by an increase in loans. Investment securities Total investment securities decreased to $14.8 million at December 31, 2024, from $16.4 million at December 31, 2023, a decrease of $1.6 million or 9.9%.
The increase was primarily due to an increase in residential 1 - 4 family of $29.0 million; residential 1 to 4 family investment of $24.0 million; and commercial owner-occupied loans of $15.7 million; partially offset by a decrease of $34.8 million in construction loans.
The increase was primarily due to an increase in residential multi-family loans of $71.4 million, and commercial owner-occupied loans of $18.7 million, partially offset by a decrease in construction loans of $8.2 million. Allowance for credit losses Allowance for credit losses increased $0.4 million, to $32.6 million, or 1.38%, at December 31, 2024, from $32.1 million at December 31, 2023.
Allowance for credit losses Allowance for credit losses increased $0.3 million, to $32.1 million, or 0.90%, at December 31, 2023, from $31.8 million at December 31, 2022. The increase was primarily due to an increase in the portfolio balance, net of a decrease in historical loss rates.
The increase was primarily due to an increase in the portfolio balance, partially offset by a decrease in historical loss rates. Deposits At December 31, 2024, the Bank’s total deposits increased to $1.63 billion from $1.55 billion at December 31, 2023, an increase of $78.2 million, or 5.0%.
Our determination of the allowance for credit losses is based on periodic evaluations of the loan and lease portfolios and other relevant factors, broken down into vintage based on year of origination. These critical estimates include significant use of our 28 own historical data and other qualitative, and quantitative data.
Refer to Note 1 in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further information. Our determination of the allowance for credit losses is based on periodic evaluations of the loan and lease portfolios and other relevant factors, broken down into vintage based on year of origination.
To the extent actual outcomes differ from our estimates, additional provision for loan and lease losses may be required that would reduce future earnings.
This range was deemed immaterial to the overall ACL reserve balance. The process of determining the level of the allowance for credit losses requires a high degree of judgment. To the extent actual outcomes differ from our estimates, additional provision for loan and lease losses may be required that would reduce future earnings. Item 7A.
The Bank joined the IntraFi network to secure an additional alternative funding source. IntraFi provides the Bank an additional source of external funds through their weekly CDARS® settlement process, as well as their ICS® money market product. While deposit accounts comprise the vast majority of our funding needs, we maintain secured borrowing lines with the FHLBNY.
The Bank joined the IntraFi network to secure an additional alternative funding source. IntraFi provides the Bank an additional source of external funds through their weekly CDARS® settlement process, as well as their ICS® money market product. As of December 31, 2024, the Company has $13.5 million of brokered deposits from IntraFi.
The increase in other operating expense was primarily driven from a one-time recognition of a $9.5 million contingent loss related to cash that was stolen from a third-party armored car carrier facility that was used by the Company.
The decrease in other operating expense was primarily driven from the recognition of a one-time contingent loss during 2023 of $9.5 million.
The following table presents certain key condensed balance sheet data as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022: December 31, 2023 December 31, 2022 $ Change % Change ( Dollars in thousands) Cash and cash equivalents $ 180,376 $ 182,150 $ (1,774) (1.0) % Investment securities 16,387 18,744 (2,357) (12.6) % Loans, net of unearned income 1,787,340 1,751,459 35,881 2.0 % Allowance for credit losses (32,131) (31,845) (286) 0.9 % Total assets 2,023,500 1,984,915 38,585 1.9 % Total deposits 1,552,827 1,575,981 (23,154) (1.5) % FHLBNY borrowings 125,000 83,150 41,850 50.3 % Subordinated debt 43,111 42,921 190 0.4 % Total liabilities 1,739,183 1,718,881 20,302 1.2 % Total equity 284,317 266,034 18,283 6.9 % Total liabilities and equity 2,023,500 1,984,915 38,585 1.9 % Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents decreased $1.8 million to $180.4 million at December 31, 2023, from $182.2 million at December 31, 2022, a decrease of 1.0%.
The following table presents certain key condensed balance sheet data as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023: December 31, 2024 December 31, 2023 $ Change % Change ( Dollars in thousands) Cash and cash equivalents $ 221,527 $ 180,376 $ 41,151 22.8 % Investment securities 14,760 16,387 (1,627) (9.9) % Loans, net of unearned income 1,868,153 1,787,340 80,813 4.5 % Allowance for credit losses (32,573) (31,845) (728) 2.3 % Total assets 2,142,236 2,023,500 118,736 5.9 % Total deposits 1,631,050 1,552,827 78,223 5.0 % FHLBNY borrowings 145,000 125,000 20,000 16.0 % Subordinated debt 43,300 43,111 189 0.4 % Total liabilities 1,842,163 1,739,183 102,980 5.9 % Total equity 300,073 284,317 15,756 5.5 % Total liabilities and equity 2,142,236 2,023,500 118,736 5.9 % Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents increased $41.2 million to $221.5 million at December 31, 2024, from $180.4 million at December 31, 2023, an increase of 22.8%.
Key reserve assumptions and estimation processes react to and are influenced by observed changes in loan portfolio performance experience, the financial strength of the borrower, projected industry outlook, and economic conditions. The process of determining the level of the allowance for credit losses requires a high degree of judgment.
Key reserve assumptions and estimation processes react to and are influenced by observed changes in loan portfolio performance experience, the financial strength of the borrower, projected industry outlook, and economic conditions. One key assumption in the vintage model is the underlying prepayment speeds, which is derived by the average loan life within the various pools.
These available for sale securities are readily marketable and are available to meet our additional liquidity needs. At December 31, 2023, the Company's investment securities portfolio classified as available for sale was $7.1 million. We had unused loan commitments of $93.8 million at December 31, 2023. Our loan commitments are normally originated with the full amount of collateral.
At December 31, 2024, the Company's investment securities portfolio classified as available for sale was $5.6 million. We had unused loan commitments of $122.5 million at December 31, 2024. Our loan commitments are normally originated with the full amount of collateral. Such commitments have historically been drawn at only a fraction of the total commitment.
Total borrowings were $168.1 million at December 31, 2023, an increase of $42.0 million, compared to December 31, 2022, primarily due to an increase in FHLB advances of $41.9 million. Total equity was $284.3 million and $266.0 million at December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively, an increase of $18.3 million from December 31, 2022.
Deposits from the cannabis industries increased to $151.9 million at December 31, 2024, from $96.7 million at December 31, 2023. Total borrowings were $188.3 million at December 31, 2024, an increase of $20.2 million, compared to December 31, 2023, primarily due to an increase in FHLB advances of $20.0 million.
Interest and fees on loans increased during the year ended December 31, 2023, due to higher average outstanding loan balances and higher market interest rates, and an increase in interest earned on average deposits held at the Federal Reserve Bank ("FRB") of $1.8 million, due to higher interest rates paid on deposits, partially offset by a decrease in the average balance of $225.1 million.
Interest and fees on loans increased during the year ended December 31, 2024, due to higher average outstanding loan balances and higher market interest rates. Interest expense increased to $66.4 million for 2024, from $48.5 million for 2023, an increase of $17.9 million, or 36.9%.
Total deposits decreased $23.2 million, or 1.5%, to $1.55 billion at December 31, 2023, from $1.58 billion at December 31, 2022. Deposits from the cannabis industries decreased to $96.7 million at December 31, 2023, from 23 $177.3 million at December 31, 2022.
Deposits from the cannabis businesses increased to $151.9 million at December 31, 2024, from $96.7 million at December 31, 2023, an increase of $55.2 million. Borrowings At December 31, 2024, total borrowings increased $20.2 million to $188.3 million at December 31, 2024, from $168.1 million at December 31, 2023.
A loan is considered to be collateral dependent when foreclosure of the underlying collateral is probable.
A specific allowance is calculated for loans and leases that do not share similar risk characteristics with other financial assets, and include collateral dependent loans. A loan is considered to be collateral dependent when foreclosure of the underlying collateral is probable.
Equity Total shareholders’ equity increased to $284.3 million at December 31, 2023, from $266.0 million at December 31, 2022, an increase of $18.3 million or 6.9%.
Total equity was $300.1 million and $284.3 million at December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively, an increase of $15.8 million from December 31, 2023.
For purposes of this table, changes attributable to both rate and volume, which cannot be segregated, have been allocated proportionately to the change due to volume and the change due to rate. 21 Years ended December 31, 2023 vs 2022 Variance due to change in Average Volume Average Rate Net Increase/ (Decrease) ( Dollars in thousands) Interest Income: Loans (net of deferred costs/fees) $ 10,583 $ 12,578 $ 23,161 Investment securities (22) 298 276 Deposits with banks (2,517) 4,301 1,784 Total interest income 8,044 17,177 25,221 Interest Expense: NOWs (25) 985 960 Money markets 568 12,625 13,193 Savings (314) 895 581 Time deposits (155) 10,497 10,342 Brokered CDs 3,303 1,809 5,112 Borrowed funds 1,309 2,837 4,146 Total interest expense 4,686 29,648 34,334 Net interest income $ 3,358 $ (12,471) $ (9,113) Provision for credit losses Our provision for credit losses in each period is driven by net charge-offs and changes to the allowance for credit losses.
Years ended December 31, 2024 vs 2023 Variance due to change in Average Volume Average Rate Net Increase/ (Decrease) ( Dollars in thousands) Interest Income: Loans (net of deferred costs/fees) $ 1,719 $ 10,054 $ 11,773 Investment securities (62) 56 (6) Deposits with banks 446 196 642 Total interest income 2,103 10,306 12,409 Interest Expense: NOWs (365) (394) (759) Money markets 7,635 3,056 10,691 Savings (712) (24) (736) Time deposits (1,695) 5,562 3,867 Brokered CDs 2,421 568 2,989 Borrowed funds (185) 2,048 1,863 Total interest expense 7,099 10,816 17,915 Net interest income $ (4,996) $ (510) $ (5,506) Provision for credit losses Our provision for credit losses in each period is driven by net charge-offs and changes to the allowance for credit losses.
At December 31, 2023, the Company had a $944.4 million line of credit from the FHLBNY, of which $125.0 million was outstanding, $50.0 million was a letter of credit to secure public deposits, and $769.4 million was unused. Our investment portfolio primarily consists of mortgage-backed available for sale securities issued by US government agency and government sponsored entities.
At December 31, 2024, the Company had a $740.5 million line of credit from the FHLBNY, of which $145.0 million was outstanding, $50.0 million was a letter of credit to secure public deposits, and $545.5 million was unused. As of December 31, 2024, the Company had a borrowing capacity through the FRB discount window of $252.0 million.
Loans, net unearned income Loans receivable increased to $1.79 billion at December 31, 2023, from $1.75 billion at December 31, 2022.
The decrease was primarily due to pay downs of $1.8 million, partially offset by a $0.1 million valuation increase. 24 Loans, net unearned income Loans receivable increased to $1.87 billion at December 31, 2024, from $1.79 billion at December 31, 2023.
Income Tax Income tax expense decreased $5.0 million to $9.2 million on income before taxes of $37.7 million for 2023, compared to income tax expense of $14.3 million on income before taxes of $56.1 million for 2022. The effective income tax rates for 2023 and 2022 were 24.5% and 25.4%, respectively.
The increase in professional fees of $0.4 million was primarily due to a $0.7 million increase in consulting fees attributed to our Bank Secrecy Act compliance, partially offset by a decrease of $0.3 million decrease in legal expense. 23 Income Tax Income tax expense decreased $0.4 million to $8.8 million on income before taxes of $36.3 million for 2024, compared to income tax expense of $9.2 million on income before taxes of $37.7 million for 2023.
In 2023, net income available to common shareholders decreased 32.0% over the previous year primarily due to a $11.4 million increase in non-interest expenses, primarily due to a one-time recognition of a $9.5 million contingent loss related to cash that was stolen from a third-party armored car carrier facility that was used by the Company.
Net income available to common shareholders for 2024 was $27.5 million. In 2024, net income available to common shareholders decreased 3.3% over the previous year primarily due to a decrease in net interest income, an increase in the provision for credit losses, and a decrease in non-interest income, partially offset by a decrease in non-interest expense.