pfbi2012-10k.htm
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

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

 
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012

 
or

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

 
For the transition period from ___________ to ___________

Commission file number 000-20908

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

Kentucky
 
61-1206757
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
     
2883 Fifth Avenue
Huntington, West Virginia
 
 
25702
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip Code)
     
Registrant’s telephone number    (304) 525-1600


Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each class
 
Name of exchange on which registered
Common Stock without par value
 
NASDAQ:GMS

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:                                                                                                                   NONE

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.                     Yes o     No þ.

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act Yes o     No þ.

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 filing requirements for the past 90 days.  Yes þ     No o.

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (section 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).
Yes þ     No o.

 
 


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  þ
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.  See the definitions of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.  (Check one):
Large accelerated filer  o.
Accelerated filer  o.
Non-accelerated filer  o.
Smaller reporting company  þ

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.

As of June 30, 2012 the aggregate market value of the registrant’s common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant was $50,348,874 based on the closing sale price as reported on the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation System National Market System.

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.
 
Title of each class
 
Outstanding at March 15, 2013
Common Stock without par value
 
7,962,693
 
 
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Document
 
Parts Into Which Incorporated
Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on 
June 19, 2013.
 
Part III




 
 


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


 
PART I
       
   
4
   
22
   
34
   
35
   
36
Item 4.
 
Mine Safety Disclosures
 
36
         
PART II
       
   
37
   
40
   
41
   
73
   
93
     
95
     
96
     
97
     
98
     
99
     
100
     
103
   
163
   
163
   
164
         
PART III
       
   
165
   
165
   
165
   
165
   
165
         
PART IV
       
   
166
     
172
         


 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


PART I

Item 1.  Description of Business

THE COMPANY
 
Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc. (the "Company" or "Premier") is a multi-bank holding company that, as of March 15, 2013 operates eight banking offices in Kentucky, five banking offices in Ohio, fourteen banking offices in West Virginia, five banking offices in Washington, DC, one banking office in Maryland and two banking offices in Virginia. At December 31, 2012, Premier had total consolidated assets of $1,120.8 million, total consolidated deposits of $930.6 million and total consolidated shareholders' equity of $144.3 million. The banking subsidiaries (the "Banks" or "Affiliate Banks") consist of Citizens Deposit Bank & Trust, Vanceburg, Kentucky and Premier Bank, Inc., Huntington, West Virginia.
 
Premier was incorporated as a Kentucky corporation in 1991 and has functioned as a bank holding company since its formation. During 2002, Premier moved its principal executive offices from Georgetown, Kentucky to its present location at 2883 5th Avenue, Huntington, West Virginia, 25702. The purpose of the move was to be more centrally located among Premier's Affiliate Banks and its directorship. Premier's telephone number is (304) 525-1600.
 
Premier is a legal entity separate and distinct from its Affiliate Banks. Accordingly, the right of Premier, and thus the right of Premier's creditors and shareholders, to participate in any distribution of the assets or earnings of any of the Affiliate Banks is necessarily subject to the prior claims of creditors of such subsidiaries, except to the extent that claims of Premier, in its capacity as a creditor, may be recognized. The principal source of Premier's revenue is dividends from its Affiliate Banks.  See "REGULATORY MATTERS -- Dividend Restrictions" for discussion of the restrictions on the Affiliate Banks' ability to pay dividends to Premier.
 
In late 2007 Premier resumed a strategy of franchise expansion by acquiring and owning community banks.  This decision follows a five –year period whereby Premier suspended its acquisition strategy in order to focus on improving operations, strengthening capital and management oversight and improving the profitability of the banks previously acquired. On October 24, 2007, the Company entered into a material definitive agreement with Citizens First Bank, Inc. (“Citizens First”), a bank with $60 million of total assets located in Ravenswood, West Virginia.  Under terms of the definitive agreement, Premier agreed to purchase Citizens First for up to $11,700,000 in stock and cash.  Each share of Citizens First common stock was entitled to merger consideration of cash and stock that generally totaled $29.25, subject to certain limitations.  Premier issued 480,000 shares of its common stock plus Premier paid $5.3 million in cash to the shareholders of Citizens First.

 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012

 
On November 27, 2007, the Company entered into a material definitive agreement with Traders Bankshares, Inc. (Traders), a single bank holding company with $108 million of total assets located in Spencer, West Virginia.  Under terms of the definitive agreement, Premier agreed to purchase Traders for approximately $18,140,000 in stock and cash.  Each share of Traders common stock was entitled to merger consideration of $50.00 cash and 3.75 shares of Premier common stock.  Premier issued approximately 675,000 shares of its common stock plus Premier paid $9.0 million in cash to the shareholders of Traders.
 
On April 30, 2008, Premier closed the acquisitions of Citizens First and Traders.  On October 25, 2008, Premier merged these two new subsidiary banks together to form Traders Bank, Inc. headquartered in Ravenswood, West Virginia.  The merger was designed to consolidate management and operations of two subsidiaries in overlapping or contiguous markets.  Similarly, effective January 3, 2005, Premier merged two of its subsidiary banks, Citizens Deposit Bank & Trust in Vanceburg, Kentucky and Bank of Germantown, in Germantown, Kentucky. Bank of Germantown was merged into Citizens Deposit Bank, with its facilities continuing to operate as branches of Citizens Deposit Bank.
 
On December 31, 2008, the Company entered into a material definitive agreement with Abigail Adams National Bancorp, Inc. (“Abigail Adams”), a two bank holding company (Adams National Bank and Consolidated Bank & Trust Company) with $436 million of total assets at December 31, 2008 with locations in and around Washington, DC and Richmond, Virginia.  Under terms of the definitive agreement, Premier agreed to purchase Abigail Adams for approximately $10.8 million in stock.  The acquisition closed on October 1, 2009.  Each share of Abigail Adams common stock was entitled to merger consideration of 0.4461 shares of Premier common stock.  Premier issued approximately 1,545,000 shares of its common stock to the shareholders of Abigail Adams.
 
At the time Premier entered into the definitive agreement with Abigail Adams, its subsidiary, Adams National Bank (“Adams National”) had recently entered into a written agreement with its primary regulatory authority, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (“OCC”).  See “Regulatory Matters” below.  Premier’s prior experience in successfully working through regulatory agreements with some of its own subsidiary banks was an attractive component for Abigail Adams to merge with the Company.  Likewise, while Adams National did not necessarily fit the community bank model of Premier’s other subsidiary banks (see the “General” subsection of the Company’s “Business” section below), Premier perceived advantages in purchasing and rehabilitating a poorly performing bank while simultaneously changing the bank’s business culture to more closely mirror that of its rural community “sister” banks.   As part of this strategy, Premier sought to participate in the U.S. Treasury’s Troubled Asset Relief Program (“TARP”) to help fund the rehabilitation of Adams National and provide the additional capital needed to maintain the Company’s healthy capital ratios after consummating the merger with Abigail Adams.

 
5


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012

 
TARP was established under the authority granted by the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 (the “EESA”), which appropriated $700 billion for the purpose of restoring liquidity and stability in the U.S. financial system.  EESA was amended by The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (the “ARRA”) signed into law on February 17, 2009.  Under the TARP Capital Purchase Program, the U.S. Treasury made $250 billion of capital available to U.S. financial institutions in the form of senior preferred stock investments and a warrant entitling the U.S. Treasury to buy the participating institution’s common stock with a market price equal to 15% of the senior preferred stock.
 
On October 2, 2009, Premier issued and sold to the U.S. Treasury (i) 22,252 of Premier’s Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Shares, Series A, each without par value and having a liquidation preference of $1,000 per share (the “Series A Preferred Shares”), and (ii) a ten-year warrant (the “Warrant”) to purchase 628,588 Premier common shares, each without par value (the “Common Shares”), at an exercise price of $5.31 per share (subject to certain anti-dilution and other adjustments), for an aggregate purchase price of $22,252,000 in cash.  This issuance and sale was a private placement exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, pursuant to Section 4(2) thereof.
 
To finalize Premier’s participation in the TARP Capital Purchase Program, Premier and the U.S. Treasury entered into a Letter Agreement, dated October 2, 2009 (the “Letter Agreement”), including a Securities Purchase Agreement – Standard Terms which is attached thereto (the “Securities Purchase Agreement” and together with the Letter Agreement, the “UST Agreement”).  Additional information regarding the TARP Capital Purchase Program and the restrictions imposed on Premier during the TARP period can be found under the “TARP Capital Purchase Program” heading in the “Regulatory Matters” section included later in this item.
 
On July 9, 2012, the U.S. Treasury announced its intent to sell its investment in Premier’s Series A Preferred Stock along with similar investments the U.S. Treasury had made in 11 other financial institutions, principally to qualified institutional buyers.  Using a modified Dutch auction methodology that establishes a market price by allowing investors to submit bids at specified increments during the period of July 23, 2012 through July 26, 2012, the U.S. Treasury auctioned all of Premier’s 22,252 Series A Preferred Stock.  Premier sought and obtained regulatory permission to participate in the auction.  Premier successfully bid to repurchase 10,252 shares of the 22,252 outstanding shares.  At the auction’s closing price of $901.03 per share, Premier was able to preserve approximately $1.0 million of capital versus redeeming the Series A Preferred Stock at the liquidation preference of $1,000 per share.  The remaining 12,000 shares are held by private investors.  Additional information regarding the Series A Preferred Shares and the Warrant can be found in Note 24 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
On July 29, 2010, Consolidated Bank and Trust Company (“CB&T”), a wholly owned subsidiary of Premier and a Virginia state chartered bank; the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond (“FRB”) and the State Corporation Commission Bureau of Financial Institutions (“Virginia Bureau”) entered into a written agreement (“Written Agreement”) requiring CB&T to

 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


perform certain actions primarily designed to improve the credit quality of the bank.  Abigail Adams, as parent of CB&T, and Premier, as parent of Abigail Adams, were also named as parties to the Written Agreement to ensure that the CB&T complied with the Written Agreement.
 
The Written Agreement required CB&T to submit written plans to strengthen board oversight of CB&T, improve CB&T’s asset quality, review and revise CB&T’s methodology for determining the allowance for loan losses, maintain sufficient capital at CB&T, improve CB&T’s earnings, and enhance CB&T’s liquidity position and funds management practices.  The agreement restricted CB&T’s ability to declare and pay dividends without prior written approval of the regulatory agencies or incur, increase, or guarantee any debt without prior written approval of the regulatory agencies.
 
On September 1, 2010, Premier filed applications with state and federal banking regulatory authorities to merge five of its subsidiary banks together to form Premier Bank, Inc. (“Premier Bank”).   On February 28, 2011, Premier received final regulatory approval to move forward with its plans to merge Boone County Bank, headquartered in Madison, West Virginia; First Central Bank, headquartered in Philippi, West Virginia; Traders Bank, Inc., headquartered in Ravenswood, West Virginia; Adams National Bank, headquartered in Washington, DC and Consolidated Bank & Trust, headquartered in Richmond, Virginia.  The merger was completed on April 9, 2011.  The resulting bank is headquartered in Huntington, West Virginia.
 
One of the goals achieved by merging the bank charters together was to alleviate the restrictions placed on the Company’s operations by the Written Agreements entered into by Adams National with the OCC and CB&T with the FRB.  With the surrender of the Adams National charter upon consummation of the merger to form Premier Bank, Inc., the Written Agreement with the OCC was terminated.  Similarly, with the merger of CB&T into Premier Bank, Inc., the provisions of the Written Agreement with the FRB that applied to CB&T were concluded.

 
With the merger of Adams National and CB&T into Boone County Bank in the formation of Premier Bank, Abigail Adams as a corporate entity was no longer needed.  As such, it was merged into Premier on May 16, 2011.  Likewise, Premier’s other non-banking subsidiary, Mt. Vernon Financial Holdings, Inc. (“Mt. Vernon”), had completed its purpose by liquidating substantially all of a pool of loans remaining from the sale of the Bank of Mt. Vernon in 2001.  In September 2011, any remaining loans owned by Mt. Vernon were contributed as capital to Premier’s subsidiary bank, Citizens Deposit Bank & Trust, and then on September 27, 2011, Mt. Vernon was also merged into Premier.


 
7


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


 
In addition to ensuring CB&T complied with provisions of the Written Agreement, Premier was also required Premier to obtain prior written approval of the FRB and the Director of the Division of Banking Supervision and Regulation of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System for declaring or paying any dividends, and also required prior written approval of the FRB before incurring, increasing or guaranteeing any debt or purchasing or redeeming any shares of its stock.
 
On August 3, 2010, Premier submitted a request to the FRB for written approval from the FRB and the Director of the Division of Banking Supervision and Regulation of the Board of Governors to pay a $0.11 per share cash dividend to Premier’s common shareholders on September 30, 2010.  On August 19, 2010, Premier was notified in writing that the FRB and the Director of the Division of Banking Supervision and Regulation of the Board of Governors did not approve Premier’s request to pay the cash dividend on its common stock as Premier had requested.
 
On September 20, 2010, Premier submitted a request to the FRB for written approval from the FRB and the Director of the Division of Banking Supervision and Regulation of the Board of Governors to declare and pay its quarterly dividend obligation to the U.S. Treasury due on November 15, 2010.  On October 4, 2010, Premier received a notice in writing that the FRB and the Director of the Division of Banking Supervision and Regulation of the Board of Governors did not approve Premier’s request to pay the cash dividend on its Series A, Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock as Premier had requested.  Subsequent to receipt of the notice from the FRB, Premier held telephone conversations with the FRB to appeal the Board of Governors’ decision.  On October 13, 2010, Premier received telephonic notice that its appeal had been denied.
 
On January 11, 2011, Premier submitted a written request to the FRB for written approval from the FRB and the Director of the Division of Banking Supervision and Regulation of the Board of Governors to pay its quarterly dividend obligation due on February 15, 2011 to the U.S. Treasury under the TARP Capital Purchase Program, and the prior quarterly dividend obligation due on November 15, 2010.   On February 10, 2011, Premier received telephonic notice that the FRB and the Director of the Division of Banking Supervision and Regulation of the Board of Governors did not approve Premier’s request to pay the cash dividends on its Series A, Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock as Premier had requested.
 
On April 19, 2011, Premier submitted a request to the FRB for written approval from the FRB and the Director of the Division of Banking Supervision and Regulation of the Board of Governors to declare and pay its quarterly dividend obligation to the U.S. Treasury due on May 15, 2011 and the two dividends in arrears due on November 15, 2010 and February 15, 2011, respectively.  On May 13, 2011, Premier received notice from the FRB that the Director of the Division of Banking Supervision and Regulation of the Board of Governors approved Premier’s request to pay all current and deferred cash dividends on its Series A, Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock as Premier had requested.  The dividends were paid as scheduled on

 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


May 16, 2011.  All subsequent quarterly dividends on Premier’s Series A Preferred Shares have been paid as scheduled.  See Note 24 for additional details on Premier's Series A, Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock.

On July 24, 2012 the FRB announced that it had terminated the July 29, 2010 Written Agreement with Premier.
 
On April 29, 2010, Citizens Deposit Bank and Trust, Inc. (“Citizens”), a wholly owned subsidiary of Premier, entered into a branch purchase agreement with Integra Bank National Association (“Integra Bank”) whereby Citizens agreed to purchase four branches of Integra Bank.  On the same date, Citizens also entered into a loan purchase agreement with Integra Bank whereby Citizens agreed to purchase $15.0 million of commercial loans in addition to those loans needed to satisfy the branch purchase.
 
Under terms of the branch purchase agreement, Citizens agreed to pay Integra Bank an aggregate net deposit premium fixed at a rate of 3.38% for the deposits, loans and facilities of the Integra Bank branches located at Maysville and Mt. Olivet, Kentucky, and Ripley and Aberdeen, Ohio.  Citizens agreed to assume approximately $73.4 million of deposit liabilities related to the four branches and acquire $18.3 million of branch related loans, as well as $38.1 million of additional commercial real estate and $10.6 million of other commercial loans selected by Citizens originated from other Integra offices.
 
Under terms of the loan purchase agreement, Citizens agreed to pay cash for $15.0 million of commercial loans selected by Citizens at a 2% discount of the aggregate unpaid principal balances of the loans.  In June, the separate loan purchase transaction closed with Citizens purchasing approximately $8.1 million of the original $15.0 million of commercial loans.
 
On September 10, 2010 Citizens completed its purchase of the four banking offices from Integra Bank.  The purchase of the branches was a strategic move to increase Citizens’ presence in its current market area without a significant increase in its operating costs. Citizens paid a $2.4 million deposit premium for the deposit liabilities it assumed and also acquired $17.8 million of branch related loans as well as $34.0 million of additional commercial real estate loans and $10.0 million of other commercial loans selected by Citizens originated from other Integra offices.  The four banking offices were also included in the branch purchase.  The purchase resulted in approximately $1.1 million of goodwill and $2.0 million in core deposit intangible.

      On May 13, 2010, Premier executed a six-year data processing agreement with Fidelity Information Services, Inc. and its affiliates (“FIS”) located in Jacksonville, Florida.   The agreement covers Premier’s core data processing, item processing, internet banking services, network services, customer authentication services and electronic funds transfer services.  Planning for the conversion began late in 2010 and continued through the first half of 2011.  Beginning in May 2011 and concluding in September 2011, Premier and FIS converted each of

 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


the subsidiary (or former subsidiary) bank’s systems to the FIS “Horizon” platform.  It was during this process that the data systems of the five subsidiary banks that merged to form Premier Bank, converted and combined into one system. The data processing agreement shall remain in effect until September 30, 2017 and provides for automatic three-year extensions after that date.

Recent Corporate Developments
 
Written Agreement between Federal Reserve Bank and Premier - On July 24, 2012 the FRB announced that it had terminated the July 29, 2010 Written Agreement with Premier.
 
Merger of Three Subsidiary Banks – On February 16, 2012, Premier filed applications with state and federal banking regulatory authorities to merge three of its subsidiary banks.  The application requested permission to merge Ohio River Bank, headquartered in Ironton, Ohio and Farmers Deposit Bank, headquartered in Eminence, Kentucky with and into Premier’s wholly owned subsidiary Citizens Deposit Bank & Trust, headquartered in Vanceburg, Kentucky.  In the second quarter of 2012, Premier received the required approvals from all federal and state banking regulatory authorities to go ahead with its plans and as of the close of business on Friday, August 17, 2012, the three banks have been merged together.
 
The combined bank is headquartered in Vanceburg, Kentucky and as of December 31, 2012 has total assets of $374,456,000, total deposits of $326,015,000, liquid assets of $53,944,000, and Tier I capital of $33,194,000.  Regulatory capital ratios at December 31, 2012 result in the bank remaining well capitalized with a Tier I Leverage Ratio of 9.0%, a Tier I Risk-based Capital Ratio of 16.0% and a Total Risk-based Capital Ratio of 17.2%; ratios which exceeded Citizens Deposit Bank’s reported capital ratios as of June 30, 2012, prior to the merger.  These levels of capital and liquidity will provide the financial strength management needs to serve the local communities within the combined bank’s branch network.  The combined bank’s locations run along both sides of the Ohio River from Proctorville, Ohio in the east through Ironton, Ohio; Vanceburg and Maysville, Kentucky to Eminence, Kentucky in the west, just outside of the Louisville, Kentucky suburbs.
 
Participation in U.S. Treasury Auction of Premier’s Series A Preferred Stock – On July 9, 2012, the U.S. Treasury announced its intent to sell its investment in Premier’s Series A Preferred Stock along with similar investments the U.S. Treasury had made in 11 other financial institutions, principally to qualified institutional buyers.  Using a modified Dutch auction methodology that establishes a market price by allowing investors to submit bids at specified increments during the period of July 23, 2012 through July 26, 2012, the U.S. Treasury auctioned all of Premier’s 22,252 Series A Preferred Stock.  Premier sought and obtained regulatory permission to participate in the auction.  Premier successfully bid to repurchase 10,252 shares of the 22,252 outstanding shares.  The auction was completed on August 10, 2012.  At the auction’s closing price of $901.03 per share, Premier was able to preserve approximately $1.0 million of capital versus redeeming the Series A Preferred Stock at the liquidation preference of $1,000 per share.  The remaining 12,000 shares are held by private investors.

 
10


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012

 
The Securities Purchase Agreement with the U.S. Treasury governing the initial issuance of the Series A Preferred Stock on October 2, 2009 also subjected the Company to certain of the executive compensation limitations included in the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 (the “EESA”). In this connection, as a condition to the closing of the transaction, the Company’s Senior Executive Officers (as defined in the Securities Purchase Agreement) (the “Senior Executive Officers”), (i) voluntarily waived any claim against the U.S. Treasury or the Company for any changes to such officer’s compensation or benefits that are required to comply with the regulation issued by the U.S. Treasury under the TARP Capital Purchase Program and acknowledged that the regulation may require modification of the compensation, bonus, incentive and other benefit plans, arrangements and policies and agreements as they relate to the period the U.S. Treasury owns the Preferred Stock of the Company; and (ii) entered into a letter with the Company amending the Benefit Plans with respect to such Senior Executive Officers as may be necessary, during the period that the Treasury owns the Preferred Stock of the Company, as necessary to comply with Section 111(b) of the EESA.  These limitations terminated upon completion of the U.S. Treasury’s auction of the Series A Preferred Stock on August 10, 2012.

 
11


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


BUSINESS
General

Through the Banks the Company focuses on providing quality community banking services to individuals and small-to-medium sized businesses primarily in non-urban areas. By seeking to provide such banking services in non-urban areas, the Company believes that it can minimize the competitive effect of larger financial institutions that typically are focused on large metropolitan areas. Each Bank retains its local management structure which offers customers direct access to the Bank's regional presidents and other officers in an environment conducive to friendly, informed and courteous service. This approach also enables each Bank to offer local and timely decision-making, and flexible and reasonable operating procedures and credit policies limited only by a framework of centralized risk controls provided by the Company to promote prudent banking practices. See additional discussion under "Regulatory Matters" below.
 
Each Bank maintains its community orientation by, among other things, having selected members of its community as members of its board of directors, who assist in the introduction of prospective customers to the Bank and in the development or modification of products and services to meet customer needs. As a result of the development of personal banking relationships with its customers and the convenience and service offered by the Banks, the Banks' lending and investing activities are funded primarily by core deposits.
 
When appropriate and economically advantageous, the Company centralizes certain of the Banks' back office, support and investment functions in order to achieve consistency and cost efficiency in the delivery of products and services. The Company centrally provides services such as accounting, loan review, operations and network support, human resources, compliance and internal auditing to the Banks to enhance their ability to compete effectively. The Company also provides overall direction in the areas of credit policy and administration, strategic planning, marketing, investment portfolio management and other financial and administrative services. Each Bank participates in product development by advising management of new products and services needed by its customers and desirable changes to existing products and services.
 
Prior to data systems conversions in mid-2005, the Company maintained a data processing subsidiary, which provided centralized data processing services for the Affiliate Banks. Beginning in late 2004 and continuing through the middle of 2005, the Company converted its data processing system to an external third-party provider. Through the conversion process, Company senior management along with each Bank's management reviewed and standardized their offering of products and services, although pricing decisions remain at the local level. Furthermore, as a result of conversion, the Company through the Banks was able offer more modern products, such as internet banking and check imaging, and was able to take advantage of emerging technologies such as image exchange to remit and clear items with its exchange agents. With the conversion to FIS in 2011, all of these benefits remain

 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


plus the Company has integrated its automated teller machine network, improved its management reporting systems, and adopted an integrated image-based document storage system.
 
Each of the Banks provides a wide range of retail and commercial banking services, including commercial, real estate, agricultural and consumer lending; depository and funds transfer services; collections; safe deposit boxes; cash management services; and other services tailored for both individuals and businesses.
 
The Banks' residential mortgage lending activities consist primarily of loans for purchasing personal residences or loans for commercial or consumer purposes secured by residential mortgages.  The Banks also originate residential mortgage loans that are sold in the secondary mortgage market.  The Banks’ mortgage originators are salaried employees who do not receive a commission or other incentive compensation for the number or type of mortgages they originate.  Consumer lending activities consist of traditional forms of financing for automobile and personal loans including unsecured lines of credit. Commercial lending activities include loans to small businesses located primarily in the communities in which the Banks are located and surrounding areas. Commercial loans are secured by business assets including real estate, equipment, inventory, and accounts receivable. Some commercial loans are unsecured.  Through the acquisition of Abigail Adams, the Company inherited a concentration in commercial real estate development loans.  Many of these loans were for the revitalization of apartment buildings in and around the Washington, DC metro area, some of which would result in the apartment complex converting into individually owned condominiums.   Since the acquisition of Abigail Adams, Premier has worked to reduce these concentrations by providing funding only during the construction phase.  The Washington, DC metro area also offers opportunities for larger commercial and commercial real estate loans.  These new opportunities will still be subject to Premier’s strict credit underwriting policies and procedures.
 
The Banks' range of deposit services includes checking accounts, NOW accounts, savings accounts, money market accounts, club accounts, individual retirement accounts, certificates of deposit and overdraft protection. Customers can access their accounts via traditional bank branch locations as well as Automated Teller Machines (ATM’s) and the internet.  The Banks also offer bill payment and telephone banking services.  Deposits of the Banks are insured by the Deposit Insurance Fund administered by the FDIC to the maximum amounts offered by the FDIC.

Competition
 
The Banks encounter strong competition both in making loans and attracting deposits. The widespread enactment of state laws that permit multi-bank holding companies as well as the availability of nationwide interstate banking and internet banking have created a highly competitive environment for financial services providers. In one or more aspects of its business, each Bank competes with other commercial banks, savings and loan associations, credit unions,

 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


finance companies, mutual funds, insurance companies, brokerage and investment banking companies and other financial intermediaries operating in its market and elsewhere, many of which have substantially greater financial and managerial resources. While the Banks are smaller financial institutions by comparison, each of the Banks' competitors include large bank holding companies having substantially greater resources and offering certain services that the Affiliate Banks may not currently provide. Each Bank seeks to minimize the competitive effect of larger financial institutions through a community banking approach that emphasizes direct customer access to the Bank's regional presidents and other officers in an environment conducive to friendly, informed and courteous service.  Furthermore, via the Company’s credit administration department, the Banks can also minimize the competitive effects of larger institutions by tailoring their lending criteria to the individual circumstances of the small-to-medium sized business owner.
 
Management believes that each Bank is positioned to compete successfully in its respective primary market area, although no assurances as to ongoing competitiveness can be given. Competition among financial institutions is based upon interest rates offered on deposit accounts, service charges on deposit accounts for various services related to customer convenience, interest rates charged on loans and other credit, the quality and scope of the services rendered, the convenience of the banking facilities and, in the case of loans to commercial borrowers, relative lending limits. Management believes that the commitment of its Banks to personal service, innovation and involvement in their respective communities and primary market areas, as well as their commitment to quality community banking service, are factors that contribute to their competitiveness.

Regulatory Matters
 
The following discussion sets forth certain elements of the regulatory framework applicable to bank holding companies and their subsidiaries and provides certain specific information relevant to Premier. This regulatory framework is intended primarily for the protection of depositors and the federal deposit insurance funds and not for the protection of the holders of securities, including Premier common shares. To the extent that the following information describes statutory or regulatory provisions, it is qualified in its entirety by reference to those provisions. A change in the statutes, regulations or regulatory policies applicable to Premier or its subsidiaries may have a material effect on the business of Premier.
 
General - As a bank holding company, Premier is subject to regulation under the Bank Holding Company Act ("BHC Act"), and to inspection, examination and supervision by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System ("Federal Reserve"). Under the BHC Act, bank holding companies generally may not acquire ownership or control of more than 5% of the voting shares or substantially all the assets of any company, including a bank, without the Federal Reserve's prior approval. Similarly, bank holding companies generally may not acquire ownership or control of a savings association without the prior approval of the Federal Reserve. Further, branching by the Affiliate Banks is subject to the jurisdiction, and requires the approval

 
14


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


of each Affiliate Bank's primary federal banking regulator and, if the Affiliate Bank is a state-chartered bank, the appropriate state banking regulator.
 
Under the BHC Act, the Federal Reserve has the authority to require a bank holding company to terminate any activity or relinquish control of the nonbank subsidiary (other than a nonbank subsidiary of a bank) upon the Federal Reserve's determination that such activity or control constitutes a risk to the financial soundness and stability of any bank subsidiary of the bank holding company. Premier and the Affiliate Banks are subject to the Federal Reserve Act, which limits borrowings by Premier and any nonbank subsidiaries from the Affiliate Banks and also limits various other transactions between Premier and any nonbank subsidiaries with the Affiliate Banks.
 
Citizens Deposit Bank & Trust is chartered in Kentucky and supervised, regulated and examined by the Kentucky Department of Financial Institutions.  Premier Bank, Inc. is chartered in West Virginia and supervised, regulated and examined by the West Virginia Division of Financial Institutions.  In addition, the Affiliate Banks are supervised and regulated by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC"). Each banking regulator has the authority to issue cease-and-desist orders if it determines that the activities of a bank regularly represent an unsafe and unsound banking practice or a violation of law.
 
Both federal and state law extensively regulates various aspects of the banking business, such as reserve and capital requirements, truth-in-lending and truth-in-savings disclosure, equal credit opportunity, fair credit reporting, trading in securities and other aspects of banking operations. Premier and the Affiliate Banks are also affected by the fiscal and monetary policies of the federal government and the Federal Reserve and by various other governmental laws, regulations and requirements. Further, the earnings of Premier and Affiliate Banks are affected by general economic conditions and prevailing interest rates. Legislation and administrative actions affecting the banking industry are frequently considered by the United States Congress, state legislatures and various regulatory agencies. It is not possible to predict with certainty whether such legislation or administrative actions will be enacted or the extent to which the banking industry, in general, or Premier and the Affiliate Banks, in particular, would be affected.
 
Liability for Bank Subsidiaries - The Federal Reserve has a policy to the effect that a bank holding company is expected to act as a source of financial and managerial strength to each of its subsidiary banks and to maintain resources adequate to support each such subsidiary bank. This support may be required at times when Premier may not have the resources to provide it. In the event of a bank holding company's bankruptcy, any commitment by the bank holding company to a federal bank regulatory agency to maintain the capital of a subsidiary bank would be assumed by the bankruptcy trustee and entitled to priority of payment.


 
15


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012

 
Any depository institution insured by the FDIC may be held liable for any loss incurred, or reasonably expected to be incurred, by the FDIC in connection with (i) the default of a commonly controlled FDIC-insured depository institution, or (ii) any assistance provided by the FDIC to a commonly controlled FDIC-insured depository institution in danger of default. "Default" is defined generally as the appointment of a conservator or receiver and "in danger of default" is defined generally as the existence of certain conditions indicating that a "default" is likely to occur in the absence of regulatory assistance. In the event that such a default occurred with respect to a bank, any loans to the bank from its parent holding company will be subordinate in right of payment of the bank's depositors and certain of its other obligations.
 
Capital Requirements - Premier is subject to capital ratios, requirements and guidelines imposed by the Federal Reserve, which are substantially similar to the ratios, requirements and guidelines imposed by the FDIC on the Banks. These capital requirements establish higher capital standards for banks and bank holding companies that assume greater credit risks. For this purpose, a bank's or holding company's assets and certain specified off-balance sheet commitments are assigned to four risk categories, each weighted differently based on the level of credit risk that is ascribed to such assets or commitments. A bank's or holding company's capital is divided into two tiers: "Tier I" capital and "Tier II" capital. "Tier I" capital includes common shareholders' equity, non-cumulative perpetual preferred stock, and related surplus (excluding auction rate issues), minority interests in equity accounts of consolidated subsidiaries plus cumulative perpetual preferred stock and Trust Preferred Securities both of which are subject to certain limitations. Goodwill, certain identifiable intangible assets and certain other assets are subtracted from these sources of capital to calculate Tier I capital. "Tier II" capital includes, among other items, perpetual preferred stock not meeting the Tier I definition, mandatory convertible securities, subordinated debt and allowances for loan and lease losses, subject to certain limitations, less certain required deductions.
 
Bank holding companies currently are required to maintain Tier I and total capital (the sum of Tier I and Tier II capital) equal to at least 4% and 8% of total risk-weighted assets, respectively. At December 31, 2012, Premier met both requirements, with Tier I and total capital equal to 16.1% and 17.4% of its total risk-weighted assets, respectively.
 
In addition to the risk-based capital guidelines, the Federal Reserve requires bank holding companies to maintain a minimum "leverage ratio" (Tier I capital to adjusted total assets) of 3%, if the holding company has the highest regulatory ratings for risk-based capital purposes. All other bank holding companies are required to maintain a leverage ratio of 3% plus at least 100 to 200 basis points. At December 31, 2012, Premier's leverage ratio was 10.0%.
 
The foregoing capital requirements are minimum requirements. The Federal Reserve may set capital requirements higher than the minimums described above for holding companies whose circumstances warrant it. For example, holding companies experiencing or anticipating significant growth may be expected to maintain capital ratios, including tangible capital positions, well above the minimum levels.

 
16


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012

 
Additionally, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act of 1991 ("FDICIA"), among other things, identifies five capital categories for insured depository institutions (well capitalized, adequately capitalized, undercapitalized, significantly undercapitalized and critically undercapitalized) and requires the respective federal regulatory agencies to implement systems for "prompt corrective action" for insured depository institutions that do not meet minimum capital requirements within such categories. FDICIA imposes progressively more restrictive constraints on operations, management and capital distributions, depending on the category in which an institution is classified. Failure to meet the capital guidelines could also subject a banking institution to capital raising requirements.

      An "undercapitalized" bank must develop a capital restoration plan and its parent holding company must guarantee the bank's compliance with the plan. The liability of the parent holding company under any such guarantee is limited to the lesser of 5% of the Bank's assets at the time it became "undercapitalized" or the amount needed to comply with the plan. Furthermore, in the event of the bankruptcy of the parent holding company, such guarantee would take priority over the parent's general unsecured creditors. In addition, FDICIA requires the various regulatory agencies to prescribe certain non-capital standards for safety and executive compensation and permits regulatory action against a financial institution that does not meet such standards.

Regulatory Agreements - As previously disclosed in earlier reports, the Company and some of the subsidiary Banks have, in the past, been subject to regulatory agreements.  On January 29, 2003, the Company entered into a written agreement with the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland (“FRB - Cleveland”).  In, 2006, the FRB determined that Premier had fully satisfied all of the provisions of the written agreement and, accordingly, the FRB - Cleveland terminated the agreement effective April 18, 2006.
 
Before they were merged together into one entity, two of the Company's subsidiaries, Citizens Deposit Bank & Trust and the Bank of Germantown, entered into similar agreements with their respective primary regulators which, among other things, prohibited the payment of dividends without prior written approval and required significant changes in their credit administration policies. The banks fully complied with the terms of the agreements in 2004 and the agreements were accordingly rescinded by their regulators.
 
As a result of a 2003 investigation into the conduct of the former president of Farmers Deposit Bank (then a wholly owned subsidiary of Premier) by Premier and the FDIC, on December 24, 2003, Premier announced that Farmers Deposit Bank had reached an agreement with the FDIC and the Kentucky Department of Financial Institutions ("KDFI") [collectively referred to as "Supervisory Authorities"] to consent to the issuance of a cease & desist order ("Order") from its Supervisory Authorities.  The Order also outlined a number of steps to be taken by Farmers Deposit Bank which were designed to remedy and/or prevent the re-occurrence of events that gave rise to the investigation during the latter half of 2003.  Having found that Farmers Deposit Bank had fully complied with the Order, the Supervisory Authorities rescinded the Order on December 13, 2005.

 
17


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012

 
On October 1, 2008, the Company’s subsequently acquired subsidiary Adams National, entered into a written agreement with its primary regulator, the OCC.  The written agreement outlined a number of steps to be taken by Adams National to remedy unsafe and unsound banking practices relating to the level of credit risk and the administration of the loan portfolio, and violations of credit-related laws and regulations at the bank that occurred prior to its acquisition by the Company on October 1, 2009.   On April 9, 2011, Adams National was merged into Boone County Bank as part of the formation of Premier Bank, Inc.  With the surrender of the Adams National charter upon consummation of the merger to form Premier Bank, Inc., the Written Agreement with the OCC was terminated and no longer had any effect on the Affiliate Banks.
 
On July 29, 2010, Consolidated Bank and Trust Company (“CB&T”), at the time a wholly owned subsidiary of Premier and a Virginia state chartered bank, the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond (“FRB”) and the State Corporation Commission Bureau of Financial Institutions (“Virginia Bureau”) entered into a written agreement (“Written Agreement”) requiring CB&T to perform certain actions primarily designed to improve the credit quality of the Bank.  Abigail Adams, as parent of CB&T, and Premier, as parent of Abigail Adams, were also named as parties to the Written Agreement to ensure that CB&T complied with the Written Agreement.
 
The Written Agreement required CB&T to submit written plans to strengthen board oversight of CB&T, improve the CB&T’s asset quality, review and revise CB&T’s methodology for determining the allowance for loan losses, maintain sufficient capital at CB&T, improve CB&T’s earnings, and enhance CB&T’s liquidity position and funds management practices.  CB&T was also required to submit quarterly written progress reports.  The agreement restricted CB&T’s ability to declare and pay dividends without prior written approval of the regulatory agencies or incur, increase, or guarantee any debt without prior written approval of the regulatory agencies.
 
On April 9, 2011, CB&T was merged into Boone County Bank as part of the formation of Premier Bank, Inc.  With the merger of CB&T into Premier Bank, Inc., the provisions of the Written Agreement with the FRB that applied to CB&T were concluded.
 
In addition to ensuring CB&T complied with provisions of the Written Agreement, Premier was also specifically subject to the provision requiring prior written approval of the FRB and the Director of the Division of Banking Supervision and Regulation of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System for declaring or paying any dividends, and the provision requiring prior written approval of the FRB before incurring, increasing or guaranteeing any debt or purchasing or redeeming any shares of its stock.  On July 24, 2012 the FRB announced that it had terminated the July 29, 2010 Written Agreement with Premier.


 
18


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2011

 
TARP Capital Purchase Program - As discussed above in conjunction with the acquisition of Abigail Adams, Premier elected to participate in the TARP Capital Purchase Program and received $22.25 million of new equity capital from the U.S. Treasury on October 2, 2009.  As part of its participation in the TARP Capital Purchase Program, Premier agreed to various requirements and restrictions imposed on all participants in the TARP Capital Purchase Program.  Those restrictions included certain executive compensation and corporate expenditure limits on all current and future recipients of funds under the TARP Capital Purchase Program, including Premier, as long as any obligation arising from the financial assistance provided to the recipient under the TARP Capital Purchase Program remains outstanding, excluding any period during which the U.S. Treasury holds only warrants to purchase common stock of a TARP participant (the “Covered Period”).   Detailed information regarding the Series A Preferred Shares and the Warrant can be found in Note 24 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Dividend Restrictions - Premier is dependent on dividends from its Affiliate Banks for its revenues. Various federal and state regulatory provisions limit the amount of dividends the Affiliate Banks can pay to Premier without regulatory approval. At December 31, 2012, approximately $2.1 million of the total shareholders' equity of the Affiliate Banks was available for payment of dividends to Premier without approval by the applicable regulatory authority.
 
In addition, federal bank regulatory authorities have authority to prohibit Premier's Affiliate Banks from engaging in an unsafe or unsound practice in conducting their business. The payment of dividends, depending upon the financial condition of the bank in question, could be deemed to constitute such an unsafe or unsound practice. The ability of the Affiliate Banks to pay dividends in the future is presently, and could be further, influenced by bank regulatory policies and capital guidelines as well as each Affiliate Bank's earnings and financial condition.  Additional information regarding dividend limitations can be found in Note 20 of the accompanying audited consolidated financial statements.
 
The dividend rights of holders of Premier’s common shares are also qualified and subject to the dividend rights of holders of Premier’s Series A Preferred Shares.  As long as the Series A Preferred Shares remain outstanding, unless all accrued and unpaid dividends for all past dividend periods on the Series A Preferred Shares are fully paid, Premier will not be permitted to declare or pay dividends on any Common Shares, any junior preferred shares or, generally, any preferred shares ranking pari passu with the Series A Preferred Shares (other than in the case of pari passu preferred shares, dividends on a pro rata basis with the Series A Preferred Shares), nor will Premier be permitted to repurchase or redeem any Common Shares or preferred shares other than the Series A Preferred Shares.

 
19

 
PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012

 
Interstate Banking - Under the Riegle-Neal Interstate Banking and Branching Efficiency Act of 1994 (the "Riegle-Neal Act"), subject to certain concentration limits, (i) bank holding companies, such as Premier, are permitted to acquire banks and bank holding companies located in any state of the United States, subject to certain restrictions, and (ii) banks are permitted to acquire branch offices outside their home state by merging with out-of-state banks, purchasing branches in other states or establishing de novo branch offices in other states; provided that, in the case of any such purchase or opening of individual branches, the host state has adopted legislation "opting in" to the relevant provisions of the Riegle-Neal Act; and provided further, that, in the case of a merger with a bank located in another state, the host state has not adopted legislation "opting out" of the relevant provisions of the Riegle-Neal Act.
 
Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act - On November 12, 1999, the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (the "Act") was signed into law, eliminating many of the remaining barriers to full convergence of the banking, securities, and insurance industries. The major provisions of the Act took effect March 12, 2000.
 
The Act enables a broad-scale consolidation among banks, securities firms, and insurance companies by creating a new type of financial services company called a "financial holding company," a bank holding company with dramatically expanded powers. Financial holding companies can offer virtually any type of financial service, including banking, securities underwriting, insurance (both agency and underwriting), and merchant banking. In addition, the Act permits the Federal Reserve and the Treasury Department to authorize additional activities for financial holding companies, but only if they jointly determine that such activities are "financial in nature" or "complementary to financial activities." Premier does not presently qualify to elect financial holding company status.
 
The Federal Reserve serves as the primary "umbrella" regulator of financial holding companies, with jurisdiction over the parent company and more limited oversight over its subsidiaries. The primary regulator of each subsidiary of a financial holding company depends on the activities conducted by the subsidiary. A financial holding company need not obtain Federal Reserve approval prior to engaging, either de novo or through acquisitions, in financial activities previously determined to be permissible by the Federal Reserve. Instead, a financial holding company need only provide notice to the Federal Reserve within 30 days after commencing the new activity or consummating the acquisition.
 
Dodd-Frank Act - On July 21, 2010, the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Dodd-Frank Act”) was signed into law, which implements far-reaching changes across the financial regulatory landscape, including provisions that, among other things,:

 
·
created a new agency to centralize responsibility for consumer financial protection, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, which will be responsible for implementing, examining and enforcing compliance with federal consumer financial laws;

 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


 
·
apply the same leverage and risk-based capital requirements that apply to insured depository institutions to most bank holding companies;

 
·
require bank holding companies and banks to be both well capitalized and well managed in order to acquire banks located outside their home state;

 
·
change the assessment base for federal deposit insurance from the amount of insured deposits to consolidated assets less tangible capital, eliminate the ceiling on the size of the Deposit Insurance Fund and increase the floor of the size for the Deposit Insurance Fund;

 
·
impose comprehensive regulation of the over-the-counter derivatives market, which would include certain provisions that would effectively prohibit insured depository institutions from conducting certain derivatives businesses within the institution itself;

 
·
require large, publicly-traded bank holding companies to create a risk committee responsible for the oversight of enterprise risk management;

 
·
implemented corporate governance revisions, including with regard to executive compensation and proxy access by shareholders, that apply to all public companies, not just financial institutions;

 
·
made permanent the $250,000 limit for federal deposit insurance, increased the cash limit of Securities Investor Protection Corporation protection from $100,000 to $250,000 and provided unlimited federal deposit insurance for non-interest-bearing demand transaction accounts at all insured depository institutions until December 31, 2012;

 
·
repealed the federal prohibitions on the payment of interest on demand deposits, thereby permitting depository institutions to pay interest on business transaction and other accounts;

 
·
amended the Electronic Fund Transfer Act (“EFTA”) to, among other things, give the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (the “Federal Reserve Board”) the authority to establish rules regarding interchange fees charged for electronic debit transactions by payment card issuers having assets over $10 billion and to enforce a new statutory requirement that such fees be reasonable and proportional to the actual cost of a transaction to the issuer; and

 
·
increase the authority of the Federal Reserve Board to examine financial holding companies and their non-bank subsidiaries.

Many aspects of the Dodd-Frank Act are subject to future rulemaking and will take effect over several years, making it difficult to anticipate the overall financial impact on Premier, its customers or the financial services industry as a whole.  In some cases, regulatory or other governmental agencies already have taken action to comply with the Dodd-Frank Act’s mandates.

Number of Employees
 
The Company and its subsidiaries collectively had approximately 327 full-time equivalent employees as of December 31, 2012.  Its executive offices are located at 2883 5th Avenue, Huntington, West Virginia 25702, telephone number (304) 525-1600 (facsimile number (304) 525-9701).

 
21


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


Item 1A.  Risk Factors
 
Like all financial companies, the Company’s business and results of operations are subject to a number of risks, many of which are outside of the Company’s control.  In addition to the other information in this report, readers should carefully consider that the following important factors, among others, could materially impact the Company’s business and future results of operations.

Changes in Interest Rates Could Negatively Impact the Company’s Results of Operations
 
The earnings of Premier are primarily dependent on net interest income, which is the difference between interest earned on loans and investments, and interest paid on interest-bearing liabilities such as deposits and borrowings. Interest rates are highly sensitive to many factors, including government monetary and fiscal policies; domestic and international economic and political conditions; and, in particular, changes in the discount rate by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. Conditions such as inflation, recession, unemployment, money supply, government borrowing and other factors beyond management’s control may also affect interest rates. If Premier’s interest-earning assets mature, reprice or prepay more quickly than interest-bearing liabilities in a given period, a decrease in market interest rates could adversely affect net interest income. Likewise, if interest-bearing liabilities mature or reprice, or, in the case of deposits, are withdrawn by the accountholder more quickly than interest-earning assets in a given period, an increase in market interest rates could adversely affect net interest income. Given Premier’s current mix of assets and liabilities, a rising interest rate environment would have a positive impact on Premier’s results of operations, because the Company has more interest bearing assets than interest bearing liabilities and the interest bearing assets will likely reprice at higher rates more quickly than interest-bearing liabilities.
 
Fixed rate loans increase Premier’s exposure to interest rate risk in a rising rate environment because interest-bearing liabilities would be subject to repricing before assets become subject to repricing.  Adjustable rate loans decrease the risks to a lender associated with changes in interest rates but involve other risks.  As interest rates rise, the periodic payment by the borrower rises to the extent permitted by the terms of the loan, and the increased periodic payment increases the potential for default.  At the same time, for secured loans, the marketability of the underlying collateral may be adversely affected by higher interest rates. In a declining interest rate environment, there is likely to be an increase in prepayment activity on loans as the borrowers refinance their loans at lower interest rates. Under these circumstances, Premier’s results of operations could be negatively impacted.  Adjustable rate loans that have an interest rate floor feature will exhibit the same characteristics as a fixed rate loan during the period market interest rates are below the floor.  During this time and until the time market interest rates rise above the floor, Premier’s exposure to interest rate risk in a rising rate environment is increased because interest-bearing liabilities would be subject to repricing without a change in the interest rate on adjustable rate loans.


 
22


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012

 
Changes in interest rates also can affect the value of loans, investments and other interest-rate sensitive assets and Premier’s ability to realize gains on the sale or resolution of assets. This type of income can vary significantly from quarter to quarter and year to year based on a number of different factors, including the interest rate environment. An increase in interest rates that adversely affects the ability of borrowers to pay the principal or interest on loans may lead to an increase in non-performing assets and increased loan loss reserve requirements that could have a material adverse effect on Premier’s results of operations.

Regional Economic Changes in the Company’s Markets Could Adversely Impact Results From Operations
 
Like all banks, Premier is subject to the effects of any economic downturn, and in particular a significant decline in home values or reduced commercial development in Premier’s markets could have a negative effect on results of operations. Premier’s success depends primarily on the general economic conditions in the counties in which Premier conducts business, and in the West Virginia, southern Ohio, northern Kentucky, northern and south central Virginia and the metro Washington, DC and Richmond, Virginia areas in general. Unlike larger banks that are more geographically diversified, Premier provides banking and financial services to customers primarily in the West Virginia counties of Barbour, Boone, Harrison, Lewis, Lincoln, Logan, Kanawha, Upshur, Roane, Jackson and Wood, the southern Ohio counties of Adams, Brown, Gallia, Lawrence and Scioto, the northern Kentucky counties of Bracken, Fleming, Greenup, Henry, Lewis, Mason, Robertson and Shelby, the metro Washington DC area including the surrounding portions of Virginia and Maryland and the Richmond and Hampton metro areas of Virginia. The local economic conditions in these market areas have a significant impact on Premier’s ability to originate loans, the ability of the borrowers to repay these loans and the value of the collateral securing these loans. A decline in the general economic conditions caused by inflation, recession, government intervention or regulation, unemployment or other factors beyond Premier’s control would affect these local economic conditions and could adversely affect Premier’s financial condition and results of operations. Additionally, a significant decline in home values would likely lead to increased delinquencies and defaults in both the consumer home equity loan and residential real estate loan portfolios and result in increased losses in these portfolios.
 
There has been a decline in the housing market and real estate markets and in the general economy, both nationally and locally, due to the recession that began in December 2007. Housing markets have deteriorated as evidenced by reduced levels of sales, increasing inventories of houses and condominiums on the market, declining house prices and an increase in the length of time houses remain on the market. It is possible that these conditions will not improve or will worsen or that such conditions will result in a decrease in Premier’s interest income, an increase in Premier’s non-performing loans, and/or an increase in Premier’s provision for loan losses.

 
23


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012

 
Premier targets its business lending and marketing strategy for loans to serve primarily the banking and financial services needs of small to medium size businesses.  These small to medium size businesses generally have fewer financial resources in terms of capital or borrowing capacity than larger entities.  If general economic conditions negatively impact these businesses, Premier’s results of operations and financial condition may be adversely affected.

Extensive Regulation and Supervision
 
Premier, primarily through the Affiliate Banks, is subject to extensive federal and state regulation and supervision. Banking regulations are primarily intended to protect depositors’ funds, federal deposit insurance funds and the banking system as a whole, not shareholders. These regulations affect Premier’s lending practices, capital structure, investment practices, dividend policy and growth, among other things. Premier is also subject to a number of federal laws, which, among other things, require it to lend to various sectors of the economy and population, establish and maintain comprehensive programs relating to anti-money laundering and customer identification, and customer education programs to avoid excessive overdrafting. Congress and federal regulatory agencies continually review banking laws, regulations and policies for possible changes. Changes to statutes, regulations or regulatory policies, including changes in interpretation or implementation of statutes, regulations or policies, could affect Premier in substantial and unpredictable ways. Such changes could subject Premier to additional costs, limit the types of financial services and products it may offer and/or increase the ability of non-banks to offer competing financial services and products, among other things. Failure to comply with laws, regulations or policies could result in sanctions by regulatory agencies, civil money penalties and/or reputation damage, along with corrective action plans required by regulatory agencies, any of which could have a material adverse effect on Premier’s business, financial condition and results of operations.  Premier and certain of its Affiliate Banks have in the past been subject to such corrective action plans, and therefore there may be some residual reputation damage within the regulatory agencies.  While Premier has policies and procedures designed to prevent any such violations, there can be no assurance that such violations will not occur.  See the “Regulatory Matters” section in Item 1, “Business”.

Dividend payments by subsidiaries to Premier and by Premier to its shareholders can be restricted.
 
The Company’s principal source of funds for dividend payments and its debt service obligations is dividends received from the subsidiary Banks.  Banking regulations limit the amount of dividends that may be paid without prior approval of regulatory agencies.  Under these regulations, the amount of dividends that may be paid in any calendar year is limited to the current year’s net profits, as defined, combined with the retained net profits of the preceding two years, subject to the capital requirements and additional restrictions as discussed in Note 20 to the consolidated financial statements.  During 2013 the Banks could, without prior approval, declare dividends of approximately $2.1 million plus any 2013 net profits retained to the date of the dividend declaration.


 
24


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012

 
Premier is a separate and distinct legal entity from Premier’s subsidiaries.  Premier receives nearly all of its revenue from dividends from is subsidiary banks, which are limited by federal banking laws and regulations.  These dividends also serve as the primary source of funds to pay dividends on Premier’s common shares.  The inability of Premier’s subsidiary banks to pay sufficient dividends to Premier could have a material, adverse effect on its business.  Further discussion of Premier’s ability to pay dividends can be found under the captions “Regulatory Matters – TARP Capital Purchase Program”, and “Regulatory Matters – Dividend Restrictions” in Item 1 of this Form 10-K and Note 20 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

The Extended Disruption of Vital Infrastructure Could Negatively Impact the Company’s Results of Operations and Financial Condition
 
Premier’s operations depend upon, among other things, its technological and physical infrastructure, including its equipment and facilities.  While disaster recovery procedures are in place, an extended disruption of its vital infrastructure by fire, power loss, natural disaster, telecommunications failure, computer hacking and viruses, terrorist activity or the domestic and foreign response to such activity, or other events outside of Premier’s control, could have a material adverse impact either on the financial services industry as a whole, or on Premier’s business, results of operations, and financial condition.

New or Revised Tax, Accounting and Other Laws, Regulations, Rules and Standards Could Significantly Impact Strategic Initiatives, Results of Operations and Financial Condition
 
The financial services industry is highly regulated and laws and regulations may sometimes impose significant limitations on operations. These limitations, and sources of potential liability for the violation of such laws and regulations, are described under the heading “Business — Regulatory Matters” above.  These regulations, along with the existing tax and accounting laws, regulations, rules and standards, control the methods by which financial institutions conduct business; implement strategic initiatives, as well as past, present, and contemplated tax planning; and govern financial disclosures. These laws, regulations, rules, and standards are constantly evolving and may change significantly over time. The nature, extent, and timing of the adoption of significant new laws, changes in existing laws, or repeal of existing laws may have a material impact on Premier’s results of operations and financial condition, the effects of which are impossible to predict at this time.

 
 

 
25


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


Defaults by Another Larger Financial Institution Could Adversely Affect Financial Markets Generally.
 
The commercial soundness of many financial institutions may be closely interrelated as a result of relationships between the institutions. As a result, concerns about, or a default or threatened default by, one institution could lead to significant market-wide liquidity and credit problems, losses or defaults by other institutions. This is sometimes referred to as “systemic risk”.  Premier’s business could be adversely affected directly by the default of another institution or if the financial services industry experiences significant market-wide liquidity and credit problems.

Market Volatility May Adversely Affect Market Price of Common Stock or Investment Security Values
 
The capital and credit markets have been experienced volatility and disruption in the past and for periods lasting more than a year.  In some cases, the markets have produced downward pressure on stock prices and credit availability for certain issuers seemingly without regard to those issuers’ underlying financial strength.  Market volatility could contribute to the decline in the market value of certain security investments and other assets of Premier.  If market disruption and volatility should occur, continue or worsen, Premier may experience an adverse effect, which may be material, on results of operations, capital or financial position.

There Can Be No Assurance That Legislative And Regulatory Initiatives To Address Difficult Market And Economic Conditions Will Stabilize The U.S. Banking System.
 
EESA, which established TARP, was signed into law on October 3, 2008.  The purpose of TARP is to restore confidence and stability to the U.S. banking system and to encourage financial institutions to increase their lending to customers and to each other.  As part of TARP, the U.S. Treasury established the Capital Purchase Program to provide up to $700 billion of funding to eligible financial institutions through the purchase of capital stock and other financial instruments for the purpose of stabilizing and providing liquidity to the U.S. financial markets.  Under the Capital Purchase Program, the U.S. Treasury purchased equity securities from participating institutions.  On October 2, 2009, Premier entered into the UST Agreement with the U.S. Treasury providing for our issuance of the Series A Preferred Shares and the Warrant, pursuant to the Capital Purchase Program.  The EESA also increased federal deposit insurance on most deposit accounts from $100,000 to $250,000.
 
On February 17, 2009, President Obama signed ARRA, as a sweeping economic recovery package intended to stimulate the economy and provide for broad infrastructure, energy, health, and education needs.  There can be no assurance as to the actual impact that EESA or its programs, including the CPP, and ARRA or its programs, will have on the national economy or financial markets.  The failure of these significant legislative measures to help stabilize the financial markets and a continuation or worsening of current financial market conditions could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, access to credit or the trading price of our Common Shares.

 
26


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012

 
There have been numerous actions undertaken in connection with or following EESA and ARRA by the Federal Reserve Board, the U.S. Congress, the U.S. Treasury, the FDIC, the SEC and others in efforts to address the liquidity and credit crisis in the financial industry that followed the sub-prime mortgage market meltdown that began in late 2007.  These measures include: (i) homeowner relief that encourages loan restructuring and modification; (ii) the establishment of significant liquidity and credit facilities for financial institutions and investment banks; (iii) the lowering of the federal funds rate; (iv) emergency action against short selling practices; (v) a temporary guaranty program for money market funds; (vi) the establishment of a commercial paper funding facility to provide back-stop liquidity to commercial paper issuers; and (vii) coordinated international efforts to address illiquidity and other weaknesses in the banking sector. The purpose of these legislative and regulatory actions is to help stabilize the U.S. banking system.  EESA, ARRA and the other regulatory initiatives described above may not have their desired effects.  If the volatility in the markets continues and economic conditions fail to improve or worsen, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

Because Of Our Issuance of Preferred Shares, We Are Subject To Several Restrictions Including Restrictions On Our Ability To Declare Or Pay Common Dividends.
 
Pursuant to the terms of the Securities Purchase Agreement, our ability to declare or pay dividends on any of our shares is limited.  Specifically, we are unable to declare dividend payments on Common Shares, junior preferred shares or pari passu preferred shares if we are in arrears on the payment of dividends on the Series A Preferred Shares.  Premier is current on all of the dividends on its Series A Preferred Shares.  Premier was required to defer the November 15, 2010 and February 15, 2011 quarterly dividends on its Series A Preferred Shares due restrictions placed on the Company by the Federal Reserve Board of Governors in conjunction with the July 29, 2010 Written Agreement between Consolidated Bank & Trust and the FRB.  However the FRB gave Premier permission to pay those deferred dividends in conjunction with the May 15, 2011 quarterly dividend payment.  Until any deferred dividends are paid on the Series A Preferred Shares, dividends to holders of Premier’s common shares will also be prohibited.  In the event that cumulative dividends on the Series A Preferred Shares are not paid in full for an aggregate of six dividend periods or more, whether or not consecutive, the authorized number of directors of Premier would automatically be increased by two and the holders of the Series A Preferred Stock would have the right to elect two directors.  The right to elect directors would end when dividends have been paid in full for four consecutive dividend periods.


 
27


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


Additional Capital May Not Be Available When Needed or Required by Regulatory Authorities.
 
Premier and the Affiliate Banks are required by federal and state regulatory authorities to maintain adequate levels of capital to support its operations. In addition, Premier may elect to raise additional capital to support its business or to finance acquisitions, if any, or it may otherwise elect or be required to raise additional capital.  Premier’s ability to raise additional capital, if needed, will depend on conditions in the capital markets, economic conditions and a number of other factors, many of which are outside Premier’s control and its financial performance. Accordingly, Premier may not be able to raise additional capital if needed or on acceptable terms. If Premier cannot raise additional capital when needed, it may have a material adverse effect on its financial condition, results of operations and prospects.

Strong Competition Within the Company’s Market Area May Limit Profitability
 
Premier faces significant competition both in attracting deposits and in the origination of loans. Mortgage bankers, commercial banks, credit unions and other savings institutions, which have offices in the market areas of the Affiliate Banks, have historically provided most of the competition for the Affiliate Banks for deposits; however, each Affiliate Bank also competes with financial institutions that operate through internet banking operations throughout the continental United States. In addition, and particularly in times of high interest rates, each Affiliate Bank faces additional and significant competition for funds from money market and mutual funds, securities firms, commercial banks, credit unions and other savings institutions located in the same communities and those that operate through Internet banking operations throughout the continental United States. Many competitors have substantially greater financial and other resources than Premier and its Affiliate Banks. Moreover, credit unions do not pay federal or state income taxes and are subject to fewer regulatory constraints than community banks and as a result, they may enjoy a competitive advantage over Premier. The Affiliate Banks compete for loans principally on the basis of the interest rates and loan fees they charge, the types of loans they originate and the quality of services they provide to borrowers. This advantage places significant competitive pressure on the prices of loans and deposits.

Allowance for Loan Losses May Be Insufficient
 
Premier, through the Affiliate Banks, maintains an allowance for loan losses based on, among other things, national and regional economic conditions, historical loss experience, evaluations of potential losses on identified problem loans and delinquency trends.  Premier believes that its allowance for loan losses is maintained at a level adequate to absorb any probable incurred losses in its loan portfolio given the current information known to management.  These determinations are based upon estimates that are inherently subjective, and their accuracy depends on the outcome of future events.  Therefore, Premier cannot predict loan losses with certainty and ultimate losses may differ from current estimates.  Depending on changes in economic, operating and other conditions, including changes in interest rates, which are generally beyond its control, Premier’s actual losses could exceed its current allowance

 
28


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


estimates.  Premier’s allowance may not be sufficient to cover all charge-offs in future periods.  If charge-offs exceed Premier’s allowance, its earnings would decrease.  In addition, regulatory agencies review Premier’s allowance for loan losses and may require additions to the allowance based upon their judgment about information available to them at the time of their examination.  A required increase in Premier’s allowance for loan losses could reduce its earnings.

Loss of Large Checking and Money Market Deposit Customers Could Increase Cost of Funds and Have a Negative Effect on Results of Operations
 
Premier has a number of large deposit customers that maintain balances in checking, money market and repurchase agreement accounts at the Affiliate Banks. The ability to attract these types of deposits has a positive effect on Premier’s net interest margin as they provide a relatively low cost of funds to Premier compared to certificates of deposits or borrowing advances. If these depositors were to withdraw these funds and the Affiliate Banks were not able to replace them with similar types of deposits, the cost of funds would increase and Premier’s results of operation would be negatively impacted.

Integration of Recent Acquisitions May Be More Difficult Than Anticipated
 
The success of Premier’s recent acquisitions of Citizens First Bank, Inc., Traders Bankshares, Inc., Abigail Adams and the four Integra Bank branches will depend on a number of factors, including (but not limited to) Premier’s ability to:

timely and successfully integrate the operations of Premier and each of the acquisitions;
maintain the existing relationships with the depositors of each acquisition to minimize the withdrawal of deposits subsequent to the merger(s);
maintain and enhance the existing relationships with the borrowers of each acquisition to limit potential losses from loans made by the them;
control the incremental non-interest expense of the integrated operations to maintain overall operating efficiencies;
retain and attract qualified personnel at each acquisition; and
compete effectively in the communities served by each acquisition and in nearby communities.

 
 



 
29


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


Integration of Recent Internal Subsidiary Mergers May Be More Difficult Than Anticipated
 
The success of Premier’s April 2011 internal merger of First Central Bank, Traders Bank, Adams National Bank and Consolidated Bank & Trust into Boone County Bank to form Premier Bank and the August 2012 internal merger of Ohio River Bank and Farmers Deposit Bank into Citizens Deposit Bank and Trust will depend on a number of factors, including (but not limited to) Premier’s ability to:

timely and successfully integrate the operations of the merging subsidiaries into a cohesive single bank operation;
maintain the existing relationships with the depositors of each of the merging subsidiaries to minimize the withdrawal of deposits subsequent to the merger(s);
maintain and enhance the existing relationships with the borrowers of each of the merging subsidiares to limit potential losses from loans made by the them;
control the incremental non-interest expense of the integrated operations to maintain overall operating efficiencies;
retain and attract qualified personnel at each resulting institution; and
compete effectively in the communities served by each of the merging subsidiaries and in nearby communities.

Concentration of Commercial Real Estate and Commercial Business Loans in the Washington, D.C. Market Area May Increase Credit Risk in the Loan Portfolio
 
These types of loans generally expose a lender to greater risk of non-payment and loss than one- to four-family residential mortgage loans because repayment of the loans often depends on the successful business operations and the income stream of the commercial borrowers.  Such loans typically involve larger loan balances to single borrowers or groups of related borrowers compared to one- to four-family residential mortgage loans.  Premier’s success in the metro Washington, D.C. market area depends primarily on the local general economic conditions in the area.  The local economic conditions in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area have a significant impact on its loans, the ability of the borrowers to repay these loans and the value of the collateral securing these loans.  Real estate values have suffered from declines in the Washington, D.C. market area, which may affect the bank’s financial condition. If Premier continues to receive updated appraisals revealing significant additional weakness in the value of the collateral securing loans in the Washington, D.C. market area, it will likely result in further losses. Also, many of the local borrowers have more than one commercial real estate or commercial business loan outstanding with Premier.  Consequently, an adverse development with respect to one loan or one credit relationship can expose Premier to a significantly greater risk of loss compared to an adverse development with respect to a one- to four-family residential mortgage loan.  A significant decline in general economic conditions caused by inflation, recession, unemployment or other factors beyond Premier’s control would impact these local economic conditions and could negatively affect the financial results of its banking operations.


 
30


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


Premier’s expenses will increase as a result of increases in FDIC insurance premiums.
 
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation imposes an assessment against institutions for deposit insurance.  This assessment is based on the risk category of the institution and ranges from 2.5 to 45 basis points of the institution’s assessment base.  The assessment base for banks similar to those owned by Premier is defined as the most recent quarterly average total assets of the bank less the quarterly average tangible equity of the bank.  Federal law requires that the designated reserve ratio for the deposit insurance fund be established at a minimum of 1.35% of estimated insured deposits.  If this reserve ratio drops below 1.35% or if the FDIC expects that it will do so within six months, the FDIC must establish and implement a plan to restore the designated reserve ratio to 1.35% of estimated insured deposits by no later than September 30, 2020.
 
Recent bank failures coupled with deteriorated economic conditions have significantly reduced the deposit insurance fund’s reserve ratio. On May 22, 2009, the FDIC issued a final rule imposing a special assessment of 5 basis points on total assets less tier 1 capital on June 30, 2009, which was collected on September 30, 2009.  For Premier this assessment was booked as a second quarter 2009 expense.  The rule also provides the FDIC with authority to impose up to two additional assessments of up to 5 basis points each on total assets less tier 1 capital.
 
In addition, EESA temporarily increased the limit on FDIC insurance coverage for deposits to $250,000 through December 31, 2009.  This increase has now been permanently extended by the Dodd-Frank Act.  The FDIC also took action to provide coverage for newly-issued senior unsecured debt and non-interest bearing transaction accounts and for unsecured debt and non-interest bearing transaction and certain NOW accounts in excess of the $250,000 limit, for which institutions will be assessed additional premiums.  In 2009, the temporary increase in FDIC insurance coverage was extended through December 31, 2012.  These actions increased Premier’s combined non-interest expense in 2009 and may increase non-interest expense in future years as long as the increased premiums and coverages are in place.

Claims and Litigation Pertaining to Fiduciary Responsibility
 
From time to time, shareholders or customers may make claims and take legal action pertaining to Premier’s and the Affiliate Banks’ performance of their fiduciary responsibilities. Defending such claims can impose a material expense on Premier.  If such claims and legal actions are not resolved in a manner favorable to the Affiliate Banks they may result in financial liability and/or adversely affect the market perception of the Affiliate Banks and their products and services as well as impact customer demand for those products and services. Any financial liability or reputation damage could have a material adverse effect on Premier’s business, which, in turn, could have a material adverse effect on its financial condition and results of operations


 
31


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


Unauthorized Disclosure of Sensitive or Confidential Customer Information Could Severely Harm Our Business.
 
In the normal course of business, the Affiliate Banks collect, process and retain sensitive and confidential customer information to both open deposit accounts and determine whether to approve a customer’s request for a loan. Premier also relies upon a variety of computing platforms and networks over the internet for the purposes of data processing, communication and information exchange, including a variety of services provided by third-party vendors.  Despite the security measures in place, Premier’s facilities and systems, and those of Premier’s third-party service providers, may be vulnerable to security breaches, acts of vandalism, computer viruses, misplaced or lost data, programming and/or human errors or other similar events. If information security is breached, information can be lost or misappropriated resulting in financial loss or costs to Premier or damages to others. Any security breach involving the misappropriation, loss or other unauthorized disclosure of confidential customer information, whether by Premier or by its vendors, could severely damage Premier’s reputation, expose it to the risks of litigation and liability or disrupt the business operations of Premier which in turn, could have a material adverse effect on its financial condition and results of operations.

Inability to Hire and Retain Qualified Employees

Premier’s performance is largely dependent on the talents and efforts of highly skilled individuals and their ability to attract and retain customer relationships in a community bank environment. There is intense competition in the financial services industry for qualified employees. In addition, Premier faces increasing competition with businesses outside the financial services industry for the most highly skilled individuals. Premier’s business could be adversely affected if it were unable to retain and motivate its existing key employees and management team.  Furthermore, Premier’s success may be impacted if it were unable to recruit replacement management and key employees in a reasonable amount of time.

Future Issuances of Common Shares or Other Securities May Dilute the Value of Outstanding Common Shares, Which May Also Adversely Affect their Market Price
 
In many situations, Premier’s Board of Directors has the authority, without any vote of its shareholders, to issue shares of authorized but unissued securities, including common shares authorized and unissued under Premier’s stock option plans and shares of Premier preferred stock. In the future, Premier may issue additional securities, through public or private offerings, in order to raise additional capital, complete acquisitions, or compensate key employees. Any such issuance would dilute the percentage of ownership interest of existing shareholders and may dilute the per share value of the common stock.


 
32


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


The Series A Preferred Shares Impact Net Income Available to Common Shareholders, and the Warrant May Be Dilutive to Premier’s Common Shareholders.
 
The additional capital Premier raised through its participation in the TARP Capital Purchase Program has increased Premier’s equity and the number of dilutive outstanding common shares.  In addition, the dividends declared and the accretion of discount on the Series A Preferred Shares reduces the net income available to Premier’s common shareholders and earnings per common share.  The Series A Preferred Shares will also receive preferential treatment in the event of Premier’s liquidation, dissolution or winding up.  Additionally, the ownership interest of Premier’s existing common shareholders will be diluted to the extent the Warrant Premier issued to the U.S. Treasury is exercised.  Although the U.S. Treasury has agreed not to vote any of the common shares it receives upon exercise of the Warrant, a transferee of any portion of the Warrant or of any common shares acquired upon exercise of the Warrant is not bound by this agreement.

If Premier is Unable to Redeem the Series A Preferred Shares After Five Years, the Cost of This Capital Will Increase Substantially.
 
If Premier is unable to redeem the entire amount of Series A Preferred Shares prior to November 15, 2014, the cost of this capital will increase substantially on that date, from 5.0% per annum to 9.0% per annum.  Depending on Premier’s financial condition at the time, this increase in the annual dividend rate on the Series A Preferred Shares could have a material negative effect on Premier’s liquidity.

If a Subsidiary Bank’s Current Capital Ratios Decline Below the Regulatory Threshold for an “Adequately Capitalized” Institution, the Bank Will Be Considered “Undercapitalized” Which May Have a Material and Adverse Effect on Premier.
 
The Federal Deposit Insurance Act (FDIA) requires each federal banking agency to take prompt corrective action with respect to banks that do not meet the minimum capital requirements. Once a bank becomes undercapitalized, it is subject to various requirements and restrictions, including a prohibition of the payment of capital distributions and management fees, restrictions on growth of the bank’s assets, and a requirement for prior regulatory approval of certain expansion proposals. In addition, an undercapitalized bank must file a capital restoration plan with its principal federal regulator.
 
If an undercapitalized bank fails in any material aspect to implement a plan approved by its regulator, the agency may impose additional restrictions on the bank. These include, among others, requiring the recapitalization or sale of the bank, restrictions with affiliates, and limiting the interest rates the bank may pay on deposits. Further, even after the bank has attained adequately capitalized status, the appropriate federal agency may, if it determines, after notice and hearing, that the bank is in an unsafe or unsound condition or has not corrected a deficiency from its most recent examination, treat the bank as if it were undercapitalized and subject the bank to the regulatory restrictions of such lower classification.

 
33


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012

 
In addition to measures taken under the prompt corrective action provisions with respect to undercapitalized institutions, insured banks and their holding companies may be subject to potential enforcement actions by their regulators for unsafe and unsound practices in conducting their business or the violations of law or regulation, including the filing of false or misleading regulatory reports. Enforcement actions under this authority may include the issuance of cease and desist orders, the imposition of civil money penalties, the issuance of directives to increase capital, formal and informal agreements, or the removal and prohibition orders against “institution-affiliates parties”. Further, the Federal Reserve may bring an enforcement action against the bank holding company either to address the undercapitalization in the holding company or to require the holding company to implement measures to remediate undercapitalization in a subsidiary.

Item 1B.  Unresolved Staff Comments

None.


 
34


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


Item 2.  Properties
 
The Company leases its principal executive offices located in Huntington, West Virginia. In 2010, the Company sold the property located at 104 Jefferson Street, Brooksville, Kentucky, which served as a branch for Citizen's Deposit Bank, in exchange for similar property on which to build a new branch. The new property location was sold to Citizens Deposit Bank, at cost, and the bank built a new branch on the property.  Except as noted, each of the Banks owns the real property and improvements on which their banking activities are conducted.

Premier Bank, in addition to its main office at 2883 5th Avenue in Huntington, West Virginia has branches at the following locations:

Branch
Address
Location and Zip Code
Leased/
Owned
     
Madison
300 State Street
Madison, WV  25130
Owned
Van
Route 85
Van, WV  25206
Owned
West Hamlin
40 Lincoln Plaza
Branchland, WV  25506
Owned
Logan
307 Hudgins Street
Logan, WV  25601
Owned
Philippi
2 South Main Street
Philippi, WV  26416
Owned
Buckhannon
23 West Main Street
Buckhannon, WV  26201
Owned
Rock Cave
State Routes 4 & 20
Rock Cave, WV  26234
Owned
Bridgeport
25 Oakmont Lane
Bridgeport, WV  26330
Owned
Ravenswood
601 Washington Street
Ravenswood, WV  26164
Owned
Ripley South
606 South Church Street
Ripley, WV  25271
Owned
Ripley East
103 Miller Drive
Ripley, WV  25271
Owned
Spencer Main
303 Main Street
Spencer, WV  25276
Owned
Spencer Drive Thru
406 Main Street
Spencer, WV  25276
Owned
Mineral Wells
1397 Elizabeth Pike
Mineral Wells, WV  26150
Owned
Connecticut Avenue
1130 Connecticut Avenue
Washington, DC  20036
Leased
Wisconsin Ave
1729 Wisconsin Avenue
Washington, DC  20007
Leased
Mass Ave
50 Massachusetts Ave, S.E.
Washington, DC  20002
Leased
17th Street
1604 17th Street, N.W.
Washington, DC  20009
Leased
K Street
1501 K Street, N.W.
Washington, DC  20006
Leased
Silver Spring
8121 Georgia Avenue
Silver Spring, MD  20910
Leased
Richmond
320 North First Street
Richmond, VA  23219
Owned
Hampton
101 N. Armistead Avenue
Hampton, VA  23669
Owned

 
35


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


Item 2.  Properties – (continued)
 
Citizens Deposit Bank & Trust, in addition to its main office at 10 Second Street in Vanceburg, Kentucky, has branches at the following locations:

Branch
Address
Location and Zip Code
Leased/
Owned
     
AA Branch
67 Commercial Drive, Suite 3
Vanceburg, KY  41179
Leased
Brooksville
111 Powell Street
Brooksville, KY  41004
Owned
Garrison
9234 East KY 8
Garrison, KY  41141
Owned
Ripley
104 Main Street
Ripley, OH  45167
Owned
Aberdeen
130 Stivers Road
Aberdeen, OH  45101
Owned
Maysville
1201 US 68
Maysville, KY  41056
Owned
Mt. Olivet
103-107 South Main Street
Mt. Olivet, KY  41064
Owned
Tollesboro
2954 West KY 10
Tollesboro, KY  41189
 
       
Former branches of Ohio River Bank, Inc.
   
Ironton
221 Railroad Street
Ironton, OH  20001
Owned
Proctorville
7604 County Road 107 Unit A
Proctorville, OH  45669
Leased
South Webster
110 N. Jackson Street
South Webster, OH  45682
Owned
       
Former location of Farmers Deposit Bank
   
Eminence
5230 South Main Street
Eminence, KY
Owned


Item 3.  Legal Proceedings
 
The Banks are respectively parties to legal actions that are ordinary routine litigation incidental to a commercial banking business. In management's opinion, the outcome of these matters, individually or in the aggregate, will not have a material adverse impact on the results of operations or financial position of the Company.

Item 4.  Mine Safety Disclosures

Not Applicable

 
36


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


PART II

Item 5.  Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and
Issuer Purchase of Equity Securities
 
The Company's common stock is listed on the NASDAQ Global Market System under the symbol PFBI. At December 31, 2012, the Company had approximately 2,387 shareholders of record of its common shares.
 
The following table sets forth on a quarterly basis cash dividends paid and the range of high and low sales prices on a per share basis during the quarters indicated.

   
Cash
   
Sales Price
 
   
Dividends Paid
   
High
   
Low
 
2011
                 
First Quarter
  $ 0.00     $ 8.00     $ 6.15  
Second Quarter
    0.00       7.54       6.80  
Third Quarter
    0.00       7.98       4.87  
Fourth Quarter
    0.00       5.25       3.75  
      0.00                  
                         
2012
                       
First Quarter
  $ 0.00     $ 7.89     $ 4.42  
Second Quarter
    0.00       8.49       6.75  
Third Quarter
    0.11       9.75       6.76  
Fourth Quarter
    0.11       11.54       8.77  
      0.22                  
                         
2013
                       
First Quarter (through March 15, 2013)
  $ 0.00     $ 12.50     $ 10.37  

 
The payment of dividends by the Company depends upon the ability of the Banks to declare and pay dividends to the Company because the principal source of the Company's revenue will be dividends paid by the Banks.  At December 31, 2012 approximately $2.1 million was available for payment as dividends from the Banks to the Company without the need for regulatory approval. In considering the payment of dividends, the Board of Directors will take into account the Company's financial condition, the cumulative provisions of the Series A Preferred Shares, results of operations, tax considerations, costs of expansion, industry standards, economic conditions and need for funds, as well as governmental policies and regulations applicable to the Company and the Banks. See "REGULATORY MATTERS - Capital Requirements" for discussion on capital guidelines.


 
37


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


Stock Performance Graph
 
The following Stock Performance Graph and related information shall not be deemed “soliciting material” or to be “filed” with the Securities and Exchange Commission, nor shall such information be incorporated by reference into any future filing under the Securities Act of 1933 or Securities Exchange Act of 1934, each as amended, except to the extent that Premier specifically incorporates it by reference into such filing.
 
The following graph shows a comparison of cumulative total stockholder return on the Common Stock since December 31, 2007 with the cumulative total returns of both a broad equity market index and a published industry index.  The broad equity market index chosen was the Russell 3000 and the published industry index chosen was the SNL ($500M-$1B) Bank Asset-Size Index.  The graph reflects historical performance only, which is not indicative of possible future performance of the Common Stock.

Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc.

   
 Period Ending
 
Index
   
12/31/07
   
12/31/08
   
12/31/09
   
12/31/10
   
12/31/11
   
12/31/12
 
Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc.
   
100.00
   
57.51
   
58.97
   
57.84
   
39.76
   
99.96
 
Russell 3000
   
100.00
   
62.69
   
80.46
   
94.08
   
95.05
   
110.65
 
SNL $500M-$1B Bank Index
   
100.00
   
82.94
   
59.45
   
67.39
   
61.46
   
75.78
 
*Source: SNL Financial LC, Charlottesville, VA
 

 
38


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


Equity Compensation Plan Information
 
The following table gives information about the Company’s common stock that may be issued upon the exercise of options, warrants and rights under its equity compensation plans the 2002 Stock Option Plan and the 2012 Stock Option Plan, as of December 31, 2012.

 
 
Plan Category
 
Number of securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights
(a)
   
Weighted-average exercise price of outstanding options, warrants and rights
(b)
   
Number of securities remaining available for future issuance under equity compensation plans (Excluding securities reflected in column (a))
(c)
 
Equity compensation plans approved by shareholders
                 
2002 Stock Option Plan
    392,366     $ 9.24       0  
2012 Stock Option Plan
    0       n/a       500,000  
Equity compensation plans not approved by shareholders
                       
None
                       
Total
    392,366     $ 9.24       500,000  


 
39


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


Item 6.  Selected Financial Data
 
The following table presents consolidated selected financial data for the Company. It does not purport to be complete and is qualified in its entirety by more detailed financial information and the audited consolidated financial statements contained elsewhere in this annual report.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)
 
At or for the Year Ended December 31
 
   
2012
   
2011
   
2010
   
2009
   
2008
 
Earnings
                             
Net interest income
  $ 43,999     $ 44,208     $ 43,744     $ 31,083     $ 26,035  
Provision for loan losses
    4,260       3,630       3,297       1,052       147  
Non-interest income
    9,529       6,911       6,761       9,136       5,291  
Non-interest expense
    33,272       36,521       34,219       27,115       19,894  
Income taxes
    5,673       3,800       3,817       2,934       3,749  
Net income
    10,323       7,168       9,172       9,118       7,536  
Preferred stock dividends, net of redemption discount
    168       1,221       1,249       133       -  
Net income available to common shareholders
  $ 10,155     $ 5,947     $ 7,923     $ 8,985     $ 7,536  
                                         
Financial Position
                                       
Total assets
  $ 1,120,787     $ 1,124,087     $ 1,183,251     $ 1,101,750     $ 724,465  
Loans
    704,625       690,923       725,964       699,133       467,111  
Allowance for loan losses
    11,488       9,795       9,865       7,569       8,544  
Goodwill and other intangibles
    32,596       33,268       34,060       31,519       29,974  
Securities
    283,975       278,479       256,520       240,970       175,741  
Deposits
    930,583       925,078       985,291       913,784       589,182  
Other borrowings
    42,151       51,418       62,711       55,564       41,518  
Preferred equity
    11,896       21,949       21,841       21,705       -  
Common equity
    132,400       122,058       109,556       106,851       89,422  
                                         
Per Common Share Data
                                       
Net income – basic
    1.28       0.75       1.00       1.32       1.25  
Net income - diluted
    1.24       0.74       0.98       1.32       1.25  
Book value
    16.63       15.38       13.80       13.46       13.99  
Tangible book value
    12.53       11.19       9.51       9.49       9.30  
Cash dividends
    0.22       0.00       0.22       0.44       0.43  
                                         
Financial Ratios
                                       
Return on average assets
    0.90 %     0.51 %     0.71 %     1.09 %     1.12 %
Return on average common equity
    7.89 %     5.08 %     7.12 %     9.47 %     9.38 %
Dividend payout
    17.19 %     0.00 %     22.00 %     33.33 %     34.40 %
Stockholders’ equity to total assets at period-end
    12.87 %     12.81 %     11.10 %     11.67 %     12.34 %
Average stockholders’ equity to average total assets
    12.94 %     11.98 %     11.84 %     12.19 %     11.94 %

 
40


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


Item 7.  Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results
of Operations.

INTRODUCTION
 
Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc. ("Premier” or the “Company”) is a multi-bank holding company headquartered in Huntington, West Virginia.  It operates two community bank subsidiaries, Premier Bank, Inc. (“Premier Bank”) and Citizens Deposit Bank and Trust (“Citizens”).  The banks range in size from $374 million to $739 million, each with a local orientation. The banks operate in twenty-six communities within the states of West Virginia, Virginia, Ohio, Maryland and Kentucky plus the cities of Washington, DC and Richmond, Virginia.  Through these locations the banks provide their customers with a full range of banking services.  On September 10, 2010 Citizens completed its purchase of four banking offices (“Branch Purchase”) from Integra Bank N.A. (“Integra Bank”).  The banking offices are located in Maysville and Mount Olivet, Kentucky and Ripley and Aberdeen, Ohio.   Citizens paid a $2.4 million deposit premium for the $74.1 million of deposit liabilities it assumed and also acquired $17.4 million of branch related loans as well as $33.0 million of additional commercial real estate loans and $10.0 million of other commercial loans selected by Citizens originated from other Integra offices.  The results of operations of the four purchased branches are included in Premier’s consolidated statements of income beginning only from the acquisition date.   On April 9, 2011, Premier merged five of its subsidiary banks together.  Adams National, CB&T, First Central Bank and Traders Bank, Inc. were merged into Boone County Bank.  The resulting bank moved its headquarters to Huntington, West Virginia and changed its name to Premier Bank, Inc.  On August 17, 2012, Premier merged its three other subsidiary banks together.  Ohio River Bank and Farmers Deposit Bank were merged into Citizens.  As of December 31, 2012, Premier had approximately $1.1 billion in total assets, $705 million in total loans, $931 million in total deposits and $26 million in customer repurchase agreements.
 
The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared by the management of Premier in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The audit committee of the Board of Directors engaged Crowe Horwath LLP (“Crowe”) as independent auditors to audit the consolidated financial statements, and their report is included elsewhere herein. Financial information appearing throughout this annual report is consistent with that reported in the consolidated financial statements. The following discussion is designed to assist readers of the consolidated financial statements in understanding significant changes in Premier's financial condition and results of operations.
 
Management's objective of a fair presentation of financial information is achieved through a system of internal accounting controls. The financial control system of Premier is designed to provide reasonable assurance that assets are safeguarded from loss and that transactions are properly authorized and recorded in the financial records. As an integral part of that financial control system, the holding company employs a staff of internal auditors and contracts with professional accounting firms to perform internal audits of the financial records

 
41


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


of each of the subsidiaries on a periodic basis.  The internal audit manager reports the findings and recommendations highlighted by the internal audits to Premier’s audit committee as well as the audit committees of the subsidiaries.  Also, on a regular periodic basis, the subsidiary banks are examined by Federal and State banking authorities for safety and soundness as well as compliance with applicable banking laws and regulations. The activities of both the internal and external audit functions are reviewed by the audit committee of the Board of Directors.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
 
Management's discussion and analysis contains forward-looking statements that are provided to assist in the understanding of anticipated future financial performance. However, such performance involves risks and uncertainties, and there are certain important factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. These important factors include, but are not limited to, economic conditions (both generally and more specifically in the markets in which Premier operates), competition for Premier's customers from other providers of financial services, government legislation and regulation (which changes from time to time), changes in interest rates, Premier's ability to originate quality loans, collect delinquent loans and attract and retain deposits, the impact of Premier's growth or lack thereof, Premier's ability to control costs, and new accounting pronouncements, all of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond the control of Premier.  The words “may,” “could,” “should,” “would,” “will,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “project,” “predict,” “continue” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements.


CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

General
 
The financial condition and results of operations presented in the Consolidated Financial Statements, accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and management's discussion and analysis are, to a large degree, dependent upon our accounting policies. The selection and application of these accounting policies involve judgments, estimates, and uncertainties that are susceptible to change.
 
Presented below is a discussion of those accounting policies that management believes are the most important to the presentation and understanding of our financial condition and results of operations. These critical accounting policies require management's most difficult, subjective and complex judgments about matters that are inherently uncertain. In the event that different assumptions or conditions were to prevail, and depending upon the severity of such changes, the possibility of materially different financial condition or results of operations is a reasonable likelihood. See also Note 1 of the accompanying consolidated financial statements presented elsewhere in this annual report.


 
42


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


Allowance for Loan Losses
 
The Company monitors and maintains an allowance for loan losses to absorb an estimate of probable incurred losses inherent in the loan portfolio. The Company maintains policies and procedures that address the systems of control over the following areas of maintenance of the allowance: the systematic methodology used to determine the appropriate level of the allowance to provide assurance that the allowance for loan losses is maintained in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America; the accounting policies for loan charge-offs and recoveries; the assessment and measurement of impairment in the loan portfolio; and the loan grading system.
 
The Company evaluates various loans individually for impairment using accounting guidance issued by Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”). Loans evaluated individually for impairment include non-performing loans, such as loans on non-accrual, loans past due 90 days or more, restructured loans and other loans selected by management including loans graded as substandard or doubtful by the internal credit review process. The evaluations are based upon discounted expected cash flows or collateral valuations. If the evaluation shows that a loan is individually impaired, then a specific reserve is established for the amount of impairment.
 
For loans without individual measures of impairment, the Company makes estimates of losses for groups of loans as required by accounting guidance. Loans are grouped by similar characteristics, including the type of loan, the assigned loan grade and the general collateral type. A loss rate reflecting the expected loss inherent in a group of loans is derived based upon estimates of default rates for a given loan grade, the predominant collateral type for the group and the terms of the loan. The resulting estimate of losses for groups of loans is adjusted for relevant environmental factors and other conditions of the portfolio of loans, including: borrower and industry concentrations; levels and trends in delinquencies, charge-offs and recoveries; changes in underwriting standards and risk selection; level of experience, ability and depth of lending management; and national and local economic conditions.
 
The amount of estimated impairment for individually evaluated loans and groups of loans is added together for a total estimate of probable incurred loan losses. This estimate of losses is compared to the allowance for loan losses of the Company as of the evaluation date and, if the estimate of losses exceeds the allowance, an additional provision to the allowance would be made. If the estimate of losses is less than the allowance, the degree to which the allowance exceeds the estimate is evaluated to determine whether the allowance falls outside a range of estimates. If the estimate of losses were below the range of reasonable estimates, the allowance would be reduced by way of a credit to the provision for loan losses. The Company recognizes the inherent imprecision in estimates of losses due to various uncertainties and variability related to the factors used, and therefore a reasonable range around the estimate of losses is derived and used to ascertain whether the allowance is too high. If different assumptions or conditions were to prevail and it is determined that the allowance is not adequate to absorb the new estimate of probable incurred losses, an additional provision for loan losses would be made, which amount may be material to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 
43


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


Business Acquisitions and Impairment of Goodwill

Fr acquisitions, Premier is required to record the assets acquired, including identified intangible assets, and the liabilities assumed at their fair value. These often involve estimates based on third-party valuations, such as appraisals, or internal valuations based on discounted cash flow analyses or other valuation techniques that may include estimates of attrition, inflation, asset growth rates or other relevant factors. In addition, the determination of the useful lives over which an intangible asset will be amortized is subjective.
 
The loans acquired via the purchase of Abigail Adams National Bancorp on October 1, 2009 and the Branch Purchase were recorded on the books of Premier at their estimated fair value.  The estimate of fair value included factors for the measurement of credit risk, interest rate risk and re-salability in the most advantageous market for the loans in an orderly transaction between market participants.  These estimates required management's most difficult, subjective and complex judgments and are inherently uncertain.  Since the estimated fair value of these loans were believed to have accounted for the reasonably estimable credit risk in the loans, consistent with new accounting guidance for acquisitions after 2008, no allowance for loan losses for these loans was recorded by Premier at the date of acquisition.  However, in the event that different assumptions or conditions were to prevail due to uncertainties in the economy, the borrower’s ability to repay or other factors, and depending upon the severity of such changes, the possibility of materially different financial condition or results of operations is a reasonable likelihood.
 
Under accounting guidance issued by the FASB related to accounting for goodwill and other intangible assets, goodwill is evaluated at least annually to determine if the amount recorded on the Company's balance sheet is impaired. If goodwill is determined to be impaired, the recorded amount would be reduced to estimated fair value by a charge to expense in the period in which impairment is determined. Impairment is evaluated in the aggregate for all of the Company's banking operations. Operating characteristics of the aggregate banking operations are derived and compared to a database of peer group banks that have been sold. Pricing valuation factors that are considered in estimating the fair value of the Company's aggregate banking operations include price-to-total assets, price-to-total book value, price-to-deposits and price-to-earnings. Unusual events that have impacted the operating characteristics of the Company's aggregate banking operations are considered to assess the likelihood of recurrence and adjustments to historical performance may be made. Changes in assumptions regarding the likelihood of unusual historical events recurring or the use of different pricing valuation factors could have a material impact on management's impairment analysis.


 
44


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


SUMMARY FINANCIAL RESULTS
 
Premier had net income available to common shareholders of $10.155 million in 2012 compared to $5.947 million of net income available to common shareholders in 2011 and $7.923 million of net income available to common shareholders reported for 2010.  Net income available to common shareholders increased in 2012 largely due to decreased operating expenses, an increase in income from asset sales such as securities and loans and a discount recognized on the purchase and retirement of 10,252 shares of Premier’s Series A Preferred Stock.  Net income available to common shareholders decreased in 2011 when compared to 2010, largely due to increased expenses, primarily data processing expenses and expenses related to converting data processing systems.  Otherwise, net interest income and non-interest income increased in 2011, partially offset by a higher provision for loan losses.  Basic earnings per share were $1.28 in 2012 compared to $0.75 in 2011 and $1.00 in 2010.  The increase in earnings per shares in 2012 is largely due to increases in net income discussed above.  The decrease in earnings per share in 2011 is largely due to the increase in non-interest expenses discussed above.
 
The following table comparatively illustrates the components of ROA and ROE over the previous five years.  Return on average assets (“ROA”) measures how effectively Premier utilizes its assets to produce net income.  It also facilitates the analysis of earnings performance of different sized organizations.  In 2009, Premier increased the size of its balance sheet with the acquisition of Abigail Adams National Bancorp, Inc. (“Abigail Adams”).  The result was an increase in total assets from $724.4 million at the end of 2008, to $1,183.3 million at the end of 2010, largely due to the acquisition.  In 2011, total assets declined slightly to $1,124.1 million at December 31, 2011 and at December 31, 2012, total assets remained relatively unchanged at $1,120.8 million.  An increase in asset size will generally result in higher dollars of income earned and expenses incurred.  A detailed review of the components of ROA will help analyze Premier’s performance without regard to changes in its size.
 
Premier’s net income available to common shareholders in 2012 resulted in an ROA of 0.90%, an increase from the 0.51% ROA in 2011 and the 0.71% ROA in 2010.  As shown in the following table, fully taxable equivalent net interest income (as a percent of average earning assets) reached its highest level during the last five years in both 2012 and 2010 at 4.25%.  In 2008, this percentage was 4.21% and decreased in 2009 to 4.12% as yields on earning assets declined as a result of a lower overall interest rate environment due to Federal Reserve policies designed to stimulate national economic growth.  In 2010, fully taxable equivalent net interest income increased to 4.25% as the average interest rate paid on interest bearing liabilities fell more quickly in 2010 than the yield earned on average earning assets.  In 2011, net interest income decreased to 4.18% of average earning assets as the yield on earning assets decreased by more than the rate paid on interest bearing liabilities.  In 2012, net interest income returned to 4.25% of average earnings assets largely due to a continuing decrease in rates paid on deposits while the overall yield on loans held steady at 6.33%.


 
45


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012

 
While net interest income (as a percent of average earning assets) repeated its highest level during the last five years in 2012 at 4.25%, net credit income (as a percentage of average earning assets) repeated its lowest level in 2012 at 3.84%, duplicating the same performance as in 2011.  Net credit income reduces the net interest income earned by the provision for loan losses recorded during the year.
 
In 2008, net credit income (as a percentage of average earning assets) reached its highest level over the past five years at 4.19% due to minimal provisions for losses reducing the 4.21% net interest income (as a percent of average earning assets).  In 2008, non-interest income (as a percent of average earning assets) reached its highest level in the past five years at 0.84%while non-interest expense (as a percent of average earning assets) totaled 3.20%.  In 2009, net credit income (as a percent of average earning assets) declined to 3.98%, as the lower net interest income was lowered even further by a higher provision for loan losses (as a percent of average earning assets).  Further lowering Premier’s return on average assets in 2009 was lower non-interest income and the highest non-interest expense (as a percent of average earning assets) in the last five years, largely due to acquisition related expenses, a special FDIC insurance assessment, and writedowns on the value of other real estate owned (“OREO”).  Adding to Premier’s return on average assets in 2009 was a gain recognized on the acquisition of Abigail Adams and lower income tax expense.  As illustrated in the table, the overall result was to decrease Premier's 2009 return on average earning assets to 1.18% and decrease its return on average total assets (ROA) to 1.09%.  In 2010, the increase in net interest income (as a percent of average earning assets) was more than offset by an increase in the provision for loan losses (as a percent of average earning assets) lowering net credit income to 3.94% of average earning assets.  Further lowering Premier’s return on average assets in 2010 was lower non-interest income (as a percent of average earning assets) due to lower deposit customer fee income in relation to the total deposits outstanding and no gain on the acquisition of a subsidiary as was recorded in 2009.  On the positive side, non-interest expenses (as a percent of average earning assets) decreased in 2010 to 3.30% compared to 3.57% in 2009, largely due to reduced acquisition related expenses and lower OREO costs due to gains realized on the disposition of some OREO properties in 2010.  Lastly, dividends and accretion accrued on Premier’s Series A Preferred Stock also serve to reduce net income available to common shareholders and thus reduce Premier’s ROA.  In 2010, preferred stock dividends and accretion totaled 0.12% as a percent of average earning assets.  As illustrated in the table, the overall result was to decrease Premier's 2010 return on average earning assets to 0.77% and decrease its return on average total assets (ROA) to 0.71%.
 
In 2011, net interest income (as a percent of average earning assets) decreased from 2010 and was further reduced by a slight increase in the provision for loan losses (as a percent of average earning assets) lowering net credit income to 3.84% of average earning assets, the lowest percentage in the five-year period presented.  Non-interest income (as a percent of average earning assets) held steady in 2011 compared to 2010, but non-interest expenses (as a percent of average earning assets) increased to 3.43%, largely due to the increase in data processing expenses and the conversion expenses.  Income tax expense (as a percentage of average earning assets) was the lowest level in 2011, but only slightly less than the percentages

 
46


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


reported for 2010 and 2009.  Also similar to 2010, preferred stock dividends and accretion in 2011 totaled 0.11% as a percent of average earning assets.  Dividends and accretion accrued on Premier’s Series A Preferred Stock reduce net income available to common shareholders and thus reduce Premier’s ROA.  As illustrated in the table, the overall result was to decrease Premier's 2011 return on average earning assets to 0.56% and decrease its return on average total assets (ROA) to 0.51%.
 
In 2012, net interest income (as a percent of average earning assets) returned to its highest level over the five year period but an increase in the provision for loan losses (as a percent of average earning assets) reduced net credit income to 3.84% of average earning assets, repeating 2011 as the lowest percentage in the five-year period presented.  Non-interest income (as a percent of average earning assets) dropped slightly in 2012 compared to 2011, but non-interest expenses (as a percent of average earning assets) decreased to 3.19%, the lowest level over the five year period.  The decrease in non-interest expenses (as a percent of average earning assets) is largely due to lower staff costs, data processing costs, and the elimination of conversion charges incurred in 2011, partially offset by an increase in expenses related to other real estate owned (“OREO”).  Income tax expense (as a percentage of average earning assets) returned to a more normal level in 2012, due to tax benefits realized in 2009, 2010 and 2011 related to deferred tax assets.  Also similar to 2010 and 2011, preferred stock dividends and accretion in 2012 totaled 0.10% as a percent of average earning assets.  Dividends and accretion accrued on Premier’s Series A Preferred Stock reduce net income available to common shareholders and thus reduce Premier’s ROA.  Substantially offsetting the reduction in net income available to common shareholders from preferred stock dividends was the a discount realized on the redemption of 10,252 shares of Series Preferred Stock purchased during an auction conducted by the U.S. Treasury in July 2012.  Adding to Premier’s net income available to common shareholders in 2012 was 0.29% (as a percentage of average earning assets) of income realized on the early call of two securities during the year plus a gain on the sale of a note on non-accrual status.  As illustrated in the table, the overall result was to increase Premier's 2012 return on average earning assets to 0.97% and increase its return on average total assets (ROA) to 0.90%.
 
Return on average common equity (“ROE”), another measure of earnings performance, indicates the amount of net income earned in relation to the total equity invested by holders of common stock.  Premier’s 2012 ROE was 7.89% compared to 5.08% in 2011 and 7.12% realized in 2010.  ROE increased in 2012 due to the significantly higher ROA in 2012 but was tempered by the lower multiple of average assets to average common equity in 2012.  ROE decreased in 2011 due to the significantly lower ROA in 2011 and a slightly lower multiple of average assets to average common equity in 2011.



 
47


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


ANALYSIS of RETURN ON ASSETS and EQUITY
 
                               
   
2012
   
2011
   
2010
   
2009
   
2008
 
As a percent of average earning assets
                             
Fully taxable-equivalent net interest income
    4.25 %     4.18 %     4.25 %     4.12 %     4.21 %
Provision for loan losses
    (0.41 )     (0.34 )     (0.32 )     (0.14 )     (0.02 )
Net credit income
    3.84       3.84       3.94       3.98       4.19  
Gains on acquisition of subsidiary and sales of assets
    0.29       0.00       0.00       0.47       0.01  
Non-interest income
    0.63       0.65       0.65       0.74       0.84  
Non-interest expense
    (3.19 )     (3.43 )     (3.30 )     (3.57 )     (3.20 )
Tax equivalent adjustment
    (0.02 )     (0.03 )     (0.03 )     (0.03 )     (0.03 )
Applicable income taxes
    (0.54 )     (0.36 )     (0.37 )     (0.39 )     (0.60 )
Discount on redemption of preferred stock
    0.09       0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00  
Preferred stock dividends
    (0.10 )     (0.11 )     (0.12 )     (0.02 )     (0.00 )
Return on average earning assets
    0.97 %     0.56 %     0.77 %     1.18 %     1.21 %
Multiplied by average earning assets to
average total assets
    91.91       91.89       92.16       92.20       92.48  
Return on average assets
    0.90 %     0.51 %     0.71 %     1.09 %     1.12 %
Multiplied by average assets to
average common stockholders’ equity
    8.81 X     9.91 X     10.10 X     8.68 X     8.37 X
Return on average common equity
    7.89 %     5.08 %     7.12 %     9.47 %     9.38 %
 
The net overhead ratio (non-interest expense less non-interest income as a percent of average earning assets) decreased in 2012 to 2.56%.  This ratio compares favorably to the 2.78% net overhead ratio in 2011, the 2.65% ratio reported in 2010 and the 2.83% reported in 2009, but is still higher than the 2.36% reported in 2008, the lowest ratio reported in the last five years.  The decrease in the 2011 net overhead ratio was largely the result of lower operating expenses, primarily staff costs, data processing costs and the costs incurred in 2011 related to converting to a different data processing provider.  The expense reductions were partially offset by an increase in OREO expenses in 2012.  The net overhead ratio in 2010 compared to 2009 was largely the result of a lower ratio of non-interest expense to average earning assets due to operational savings, lower acquisition expenses and gains on the sale of some OREO in 2010 compared to 2009.  Negatively affecting the 2010 net overhead ratio was a lower ratio of non-interest income to average earning assets, largely due to the lower 0.40% non-interest income ratio of the acquired Abigail Adams’ banks compared to the historical results of Premier’s other subsidiary banks.  This lower trend continued into 2011 as well as a lower level of secondary market mortgage commissions.  In 2009, the higher net overhead ratio, when compared to 2008, was largely the result of a higher ratio of non-interest expense to average earning assets due to acquisition related expenses, significantly higher FDIC insurance costs, higher OREO costs and relatively less efficient operations of the acquired Abigail Adams’ subsidiary banks.



 
48


 PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


A breakdown of Premier's financial results by quarter for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 is summarized below.

QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)
 
   
First
   
Second
   
Third
   
Fourth
   
Full Year
 
2012
                             
Interest income
  $ 14,219     $ 11,956     $ 12,580     $ 11,683     $ 50,435  
Interest expense
    1,798       1,648       1,563       1,427       6,436  
Net interest income
    12,418       10,308       11,017       10,256       43,999  
Provision for loan losses
    950       750       1,260       1,300       4,260  
Gain on investment securities
    -       -       273       272       545  
Gain on sale of loan
    -       -       -       2,463       2,463  
Net overhead
    7,077       6,434       6,241       6,999       26,751  
Income before income taxes
    4,391       3,124       3,789       4,692       15,996  
Net income
    2,830       2,092       2,411       2,990       10,323  
Discount on preferred stock redemption
    -       - -       905       -       905  
Dividends and accretion on preferred stock
    305       306       298       164       1,073  
Net income available to common stockholders
    2,525       1,786       3,018       2,826       10,155  
Basic net income per share
    0.32       0.23       0.38       0.36       1.28  
Diluted net income per share
    0.31       0.22       0.37       0.34       1.24  
Dividends paid per share
    0.00       0.00       0.11       0.11       0.22  
                                         
2011
                                       
Interest income
  $ 12,991     $ 13,508     $ 13,254     $ 12,782     $ 52,535  
Interest expense
    2,242       2,136       2,040       1,909       8,327  
Net interest income
    10,749       11,372       11,214       10,873       44,208  
Provision for loan losses
    520       1,820       810       480       3,630  
Gain on investment securities
    -       18       -       -       18  
Net overhead
    7,696       8,000       7,671       6,261       29,628  
Income before income taxes
    2,533       1,570       2,733       4,132       10,968  
Net income
    1,671       1,029       1,813       2,655       7,168  
Dividends and accretion on preferred stock
    305       305       305       306       1,221  
Net income available to common stockholders
    1,366       724       1,508       2,349       5,947  
Basic net income per share
    0.17       0.09       0.19       0.30       0.75  
Diluted net income per share
    0.17       0.09       0.19       0.30       0.74  
Dividends paid per share
    0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00  


 
49


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


BALANCE SHEET ANALYSIS

Summary
 
A financial institution's primary sources of revenue are generated by its earning assets, while its major expenses are produced by the funding of these assets with interest bearing liabilities. Effective management of these sources and uses of funds is essential in attaining a financial institution's optimal profitability while maintaining a minimum amount of interest rate risk and credit risk. Information on rate-related sources and uses of funds for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2012, is provided in the table below.
 
In 2012, average earning assets decreased by 2.2% or $23.2 million from 2011, following a 2.9% or $30.0 million increase in 2011 from 2010.  Average interest-bearing liabilities, the primary source of funds supporting the earning assets, decreased by 2.8%, or $22.3 million, in 2012 from 2011, which follows a 0.2%, or $1.2 million, increase in 2011 over 2010.  Also supporting the growth in average earning assets in 2011 was a $30.7 million, or 17.2%, increase in average non-interest bearing deposits.  In 2012, however, average non-interest bearing deposits decreased by 5.9%, or $12.3 million from the average in 2011.  In 2012, the decrease in average earning assets was primarily the result of a $21.6 million decrease in average total loans, a $10.4 million decrease in average interest-bearing bank balances and a $3.9 million decrease in average federal funds sold.  These decreases in earning assets were partially offset by a $12.8 million increase in average investment securities.  The decrease in average interest-bearing liabilities in 2012 was largely due to an $8.0 million decrease in average interest-bearing deposits, a $3.7 million decrease in average short-term borrowings (primarily customer repurchase agreements), an $10.5 million decrease in long-term borrowings.  In 2011, the increase in average earning assets was primarily the result of a $38.6 million increase in average investment securities and a $2.4 million increase in average total loans, partially offset by an $8.1 million decrease in average federal funds sold and a $2.9 million decrease in average interest-bearing bank balances.  The slight increase in average interest-bearing liabilities in 2011 was largely due to a $0.3 million increase in average interest-bearing deposits, a $0.6 million increase in average short-term borrowings (primarily customer repurchase agreements), and a $0.3 million net increase in long-term borrowings.



 
50


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012
 
AVERAGE CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS AND NET INTEREST INCOME ANALYSIS
(Dollars in thousands)
   
2012
   
2011
   
2010
   
Average
Balance
 
Interest
 
Yield/
Rate (2)
   
Average
Balance
 
Interest
 
Yield/
Rate (2)
   
Average
Balance
 
Interest
 
Yield/
Rate (2)
Assets:
                                       
Interest earning assets
                                       
U.S. Treasury and federal agency securities
  $ 27,088   $ 423     1.56 %   $ 37,916   $ 868     2.29 %   $ 129,578   $ 3,837     2.96 %
States and municipal obligations (1)
    7,304     315     4.31       10,023     470     4.69       10,383     505     4.86  
Mortgage backed securities
    255,586     6,053     2.37       228,980     6,298     2.75       96,770     3,269     3.38  
Other securities
    11,380     487     4.28       11,683     532     4.55       13,287     637     4.79  
Total investment securities
    301,358     7,278     2.42       288,602     8,168     2.83       250,018     8,248     3.30  
Federal funds sold
    11,265     7     0.06       15,203     7     0.05       23,320     11     0.05  
Interest-bearing deposits with banks
    46,595     140     0.30       57,022     157     0.28       59,904     158     0.26  
Loans, net of unearned income (3)(4)
                                                             
Commercial
    469,927     29,604     6.30       481,493     29,717     6.17       476,019     29,836     6.27  
Real estate mortgage
    162,194     10,061     6.20       169,186     10,858     6.42       169,488     11,281     6.66  
Installment
    50,836     3,594     7.07       53,887     3,943     7.32       56,687     4,290     7.57  
Total loans
    682,957     43,259     6.33       704,566     44,518     6.32       702,194     45,407     6.47  
Total interest earning assets
    1,042,175     50,684     4.86       1,065,393     52,850     4.96       1,035,436     53,824     5.20  
Allowance for loan losses
    (10,234 )                 (11,218 )                 (8,706 )              
Cash and due from banks
    28,140                   28,022                   19,396                
Premises and equipment
    16,226                   16,390                   15,418                
Other assets
    57,640                   60,781                   61,982                
Total assets
  $ 1,133,947                 $ 1,159,368                 $ 1,123,526                
                                                               
Liabilities and Equity:
                                                             
Interest bearing liabilities
                                                             
NOW and money market
  $ 247,820     591     0.24 %   $ 229,437     657     0.29 %   $ 244,262     709     0.29 %
Savings deposits
    120,197     167     0.14       114,834     266     0.23       100,712     254     0.25  
Certificates of deposit and
other time deposits
    378,368     4,795     1.27       410,154     6,204     1.51       409,200     7,642     1.87  
Total interest bearing deposits
    746,385     5,553     0.74       754,425     7,127     0.94       754,174     8,605     1.14  
Short-term borrowings
    21,030     88     0.42       24,783     158     0.64       24,131     170     0.70  
Other borrowings
    17,010     754     4.43       19,125     852     4.45       16,932     698     4.12  
FHLB advances
    1,869     41     2.19       10,287     190     1.85       12,171     306     2.51  
Total interest-bearing liabilities
    786,294     6,436     0.82 %     808,620     8,327     1.03 %     807,408     9,779     1.21 %
Non-interest bearing deposits
    196,968                   209,188                   178,462                
Other liabilities
    3,990                   2,652                   4,617                
Preferred equity
    17,947                   21,868                   21,788                
Common equity
    128,748                   117,040                   111,251                
Total liabilities and equity
  $ 1,133,947                 $ 1,159,368                 $ 1,123,526                
                                                               
Net interest earnings (1)
        $ 44,248                 $ 44,523                 $ 44,045          
Net interest spread (1)
                4.04 %                 3.93 %                 3.99 %
Net interest margin (1)
                4.25 %                 4.18 %                 4.25 %
                                                               
(1) Taxable – equivalent yields are calculated assuming a 34% federal income tax rate
(2) Yields are calculated on historical cost except for yields on marketable equity securities that are calculated used fair value
(3) Includes loan fees, immaterial in amount, in both interest income and the calculation of yield on loans
(4) Includes loans on non-accrual status
   

 
51


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


Loan Portfolio
 
Premier’s loan portfolio is its largest and highest yielding component of average earning assets, totaling 65.5% of average earning assets during 2012.  Average loans decreased in 2012 by $21.6 million, or 3.1%, over 2011 following a $2.4 million, or 0.3%, increase in 2011 over 2010.  The decrease in 2012 is largely due to weak loan demand during the latter half of 2011 and the first half of 2012 combined with loan payoffs resulting not only from borrowers accelerating their payments to reduce their outstanding debt, but also payoffs due to the workout of problem loans.  The decrease in average loans occurred in all of Premier’s markets, but particularly in the DC Metro and Virginia markets largely due to reductions in problem loans and in Premier’s Kentucky market largely due to payments and payoffs on the loans acquired from the Branch Purchase in September 2010.  Average loans outstanding decreased by $2.7 million, or 1.0%, in Premier’s West Virginia market and decreased by $1.8 million, or 2.7%, in Premier’s Ohio market.  Otherwise, average loans outstanding decreased by $5.5 million, or 3.5%, in Premier’s DC Metro market, decreased by $4.9 million, or 12.7%, in Premier’s Virginia market and decreased by $6.8 million, or 4.0%, in Premier’s Kentucky market.  The modest increase in 2011 is again largely due to weak loan demand combined with loan payoffs resulting not only from borrowers accelerating the reduction in their outstanding debt, but also payoffs due to the workout of problem loans.  The growth in average loans in 2011, resulted from increases in balances in Premier’s Kentucky and Ohio markets, substantially offset by decreases in average loans outstanding in Premier’s West Virginia, DC Metro and Virginia markets. In 2011, Premier realized a $29.9 million, or 21.0%, increase in average outstanding loans in its Kentucky markets.  A significant portion of the loan growth in this market came from the full year inclusion of the loans acquired via the Branch Purchase in September 2010.  Otherwise, average loans outstanding increased by $2.3 million, or 4.0%, in Premier’s Ohio markets but decreased by $15.5 million, or 9.1%, in Premier’s DC Metro market, decreased by $9.4 million, or 19.7%, in Premier’s Virginia markets and decreased $4.9 million, or 1.7%, in Premier’s West Virginia markets.
 
Total loans at December 31, 2012 increased by $13.7 million, or 2.0%, from the total at December 31, 2011.  This increase follows a $35.0 million, or 4.8%, decrease from the total at December 31, 2010.  The increase in 2012 is largely due to increased loan demand in the second half of 2012.  During the latter half of 2012, total loans increased by $34.4 million.  The loan demand in 2012 was largely due to increases in outstanding loans in Premier’s DC Metro market, up $16.2 million, or 10.8%, and its Virginia market, up $5.3 million, or 15.3% since year-end 2011.  These increases offset a $4.8 million, or 2.8%, decrease in Premier’s Kentucky market and a $3.0 million, or 5.1%, decrease in Premier’s Ohio market.  Total loans in Premier’s West Virginia market remained at $277.4 million at December 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011.  The decrease in 2011 is due to decreases in loans outstanding in all of Premier’s markets as loan payments and payoffs exceeded demand for new loans.


 
52


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012

 
Loans secured by real estate totaled 82.6% of Premier’s loan portfolio at December 31, 2012, down from the 83.1% of total loans at December 31, 2011.  The decrease is largely due to a decrease in real estate mortgage loans and commercial real estate loans as a percentage of the total loan portfolio.  The decrease more than offset an increase in construction and land development loans as a percentage of the total loan portfolio.  In 2011, loans secured by real estate increased from 82.7% of Premier’s loan portfolio at December 31, 2010 to approximately 83.1% of Premier’s total loan portfolio at December 31, 2011, largely due to an increase in commercial real estate loans as a percentage of the total loan portfolio.  The increase more than offset a decrease in construction and land development loans as a percentage of the total loan portfolio.  Residential real estate loans, as a percentage of the total loan portfolio, remained relatively unchanged in 2011 compared to 2010.
 
Premier’s residential real estate mortgage loans generally do not exceed 80% of the value of the real property securing the loan at the time of origination. The residential real estate mortgage loan portfolio primarily consists of adjustable rate residential mortgage loans. The origination of these mortgage loans can be more difficult in a low interest rate environment where there is a significant demand for fixed rate mortgages. Premier also originates mortgage loans to be sold in the secondary market and recognizes non-interest income upon the sale of those mortgages in the form of commissions and servicing release fees.  Premier has not engaged in the solicitation of so-called “sub-prime” or “interest only” mortgages.  Premier uses an experienced staff underwriter to ensure the completeness of the borrowers’ loan application and documentation and to ensure that the loans meet the standards required by prospective loan purchasers.  Additional information regarding the volume of mortgage loans originated and sold is contained in Premier’s consolidated statements of cash flows presented elsewhere in this annual report.
 
Commercial loans, including commercial real estate secured loans, are generally made to small-to-medium size businesses located within a defined market area and typically are secured by business assets and guarantees of the principal owners. Additional risks of loss are associated with commercial lending, such as the potential for adverse changes in economic conditions or the borrowers' ability to successfully execute their business plans. Consumer loans generally are made to individuals living in Premier's defined market area who are known to the local bank's staff.  Consumer loans are generally made for terms of up to seven years on a secured or unsecured basis; however longer terms may be approved in certain circumstances and for revolving credit lines. While consumer loans generally provide the Company with increased interest income, consumer loans may involve a greater risk of default.
 
In addition to the loans presented in the loan summary table, Premier also offers certain off-balance sheet products such as letters of credit, revolving credit agreements, and other loan commitments. These products are offered under the same credit standards as the loan portfolio and are included in the risk-based capital ratios used by the Federal Reserve to evaluate capital adequacy. Additional information on off-balance sheet commitments is contained in Note 18 to the consolidated financial statements.

 
53


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


The following table presents a five year comparison of loans by type. With the exception of those categories included in the comparison, there are no loan concentrations which exceed 10% of total loans. Additionally, Premier's loan portfolio contains no loans to foreign borrowers nor does it have a material volume of highly leveraged transaction lending.
 
LOAN SUMMARY
(Dollars in thousands)
   
As of December 31,
    2012   2011   2010   2009   2008
Summary of Loans by Type
                                                 
Commercial, secured by real estate
  $ 314,198   44.6 %   $ 317,559   46.0 %   $ 319,048   43.9 %   $ 304,607   43.6 %   $ 133,742   28.7 %
Commercial, other
    84,430   12.0       76,960   11.1       82,591   11.4       76,140   10.9       61,655   13.2  
Real estate construction and land development
    52,706   7.5       34,730   5.0       48,213   6.6       51,637   7.4       26,182   5.6  
Real estate mortgage
    214,743   30.5       221,756   32.1       233,513   32.2       227,508   32.5       200,038   42.8  
Agricultural
    2,566   0.4       2,729   0.4       2,564   0.4       2,710   0.4       2,446   0.5  
Consumer
    28,128   4.0       30,090   4.4       32,926   4.5       33,356   4.8       37,291   8.0  
Other
    7,854   1.0       7,099   1.0       7,109   1.0       3,175   0.4       5,757   1.2  
Total loans
  $ 704,625   100.0 %   $ 690,923   100.0 %   $ 725,964   100.0 %   $ 699,133   100.0 %   $ 467,111   100.0 %
                                                             
Non-performing Assets
                                                           
Non-accrual loans
  $ 25,806         $ 42,354         $ 47,131         $ 46,299         $ 6,943      
Accruing loans which are contractually past due 90 days or more
    3,890           4,527           414           489           625      
Accruing troubled debt restructurings
    14,106           5,951           2,639           11,974           1,203      
Total non-performing and restructured loans
    43,802           52,832           50,184           58,762           8,771      
Other real estate acquired through foreclosures
    13,366           14,642           11,249           9,251           1,056      
Total non-performing and restructured loans and other real estate
  $ 57,168         $ 67,474         $ 61,433         $ 68,013         $ 9,827      
                                                             
Non-performing and restructured loans as a % of total loans
    6.22 %         7.65 %         6.91 %         8.40 %         1.88 %    
Non-performing and restructured loans and other real estate as a % of
  total assets
    5.10 %         6.00 %         5.19 %         6.17 %         1.36 %    
                                                             
Allocation of Allowance for Loan Losses
                                                           
Commercial, other
  $ 3,918   13.4 %   $ 2,669   12.5 %   $ 2,650   12.8 %   $ 1,129   11.7 %   $ 1,600   14.9 %
Real estate, construction
    1,826   7.5       1,111   5.0       1,142   6.6       364   7.4       378   5.6  
Real estate, other
    5,499   75.1       5,717   78.1       5,703   76.1       5,571   76.1       6,104   71.5  
Consumer installment
    245   4.0       298   4.4       370   4.5       505   4.8       462   8.0  
Total
  $ 11,488   100.0 %   $ 9,795   100.0 %   $ 9,865   100.0 %   $ 7,569   100.0 %   $ 8,544   100.0 %
                                                             
   


 
54


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012

 
Total non-performing assets, which consist of past-due loans on which interest is not being accrued ("non-accrual loans"), foreclosed properties in the process of liquidation ("OREO"), loans with restructured terms offering a concession to enable a delinquent borrower to repay (‘troubled debt restructurings”) and accruing loans past due 90 days or more, were $57.2 million, or 5.10% of total assets at year-end 2012.  These amounts compare to $67.5 million of total non-performing assets, or 6.00% of total assets at year-end 2011 and $61.4 million of total non-performing assets, or 5.19% of total assets at year-end 2010.  The decrease in 2012 from year-end 2011 was largely due to a $16.5 million decrease in non-accrual loans, a $637,000 decrease in loans past due 90 days or more, and a $1.3 million decrease in OREO.  These decreases more than offset an $8.2 million increase in restructured loans primarily resulting from previously restructured loans on non-accrual that returned to accrual status in 2012. The increase in 2011 from year-end 2010 was largely due to a $4.1 million increase in loans past due 90 days or more, a $3.4 million increase in OREO and a $3.3 million increase in restructured loans.  These increases more than offset the $4.8 million decrease in non-accrual loans.
 
As shown in the table above, Premier experienced a significant increase in non-performing assets in 2009 with the acquisition of Abigail Adams and its two subsidiary banks.  At December 31, 2009, these two banks accounted for $48.0 million, or 70.5% of Premier’s non-performing assets.  At December 31, 2010, the same two banks from Abigail Adams accounted for $48.7 million, or 79.3% of Premier’s non-performing assets, as an increase in non-accrual loans at the two banks was substantially offset by a decrease in OREO.  At December 31, 2011, the operations covered by the markets of the acquired Abigail Adams’ banks accounted for $47.6 million, or 70.5% of Premier’s non-performing assets.  In 2012, Premier made significant progress in reducing the overall level of the non-performing assets from the operations covered by the markets of the acquired Abigail Adams’ banks.  At December 31, 2012, non-performing assets originating from the acquired Abigail Adams’ banks decreased by $19.1 million to $28.4 million, or 49.7% of Premier’s total non-performing assets.  However, since these assets were recorded at an estimated fair value on the date of acquisition, the amount of credit risk assumed by Premier is not nearly as great as the volume of non-performing assets suggests taken at face value.
 
New accounting guidance adopted by Premier at the beginning of 2009 does not permit an acquirer to carry over the purchased entity’s allowance for loan losses.  Instead, under the new accounting guidance, all acquired loans are to be recorded at their net estimated fair value.  The estimate of fair value on all loans, but particularly on non-performing assets, included factors for the measurement of credit risk, interest rate risk and re-salability in the most advantageous market for the loans in an orderly transaction between market participants.  These estimates included significant discounts on the non-accrual loans.   These estimates required management's most difficult, subjective and complex judgments and are inherently uncertain.  However, since the estimated fair value of these loans was believed to have been accounted for in the reasonably estimable credit risk in the loans, no allowance for loan losses for these loans was recorded at the date of acquisition.  At September 30, 2009, just prior to Premier’s acquisition, Abigail Adams reported a collective allowance for loan losses of approximately $12.8 million.  In contrast, Premier recorded the estimated fair value of the

 
55


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


combined loan portfolios at an estimated $25.5 million discount to the contractual amounts receivable on the loans at acquisition.  These discounts, allocated per loan, will be used to offset any charge-offs of the uncollectible portion of the contractual amount due on non-performing assets, or accreted into interest income using a level yield method on performing loans.  Should Premier collect the full contractual amount due, any fair value discount would be recognized as interest income.
 
The following table illustrates the 2012 and 2011 year-end face value and the discounted net carrying value of the non-performing assets located in the two markets (Washington, DC and Richmond, Virginia) added to Premier’s operations from the acquisition of Abigail Adams.  These markets were the operational territories of the former Adams National Bank in Washington, DC and the former Consolidated Bank and Trust in Richmond, Virginia, both of which were merged into Premier’s wholly owned subsidiary, Boone County Bank, to form Premier Bank on April 9, 2011.  Additional information on loans purchased with evidence of deteriorated credit quality is contained in Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements.


NON-PERFORMING ASSETS AT ACQUIRED SUBSIDIARY BANKS
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
   
December 31, 2012
   
December 31, 2011
 
   
Face Value
   
Discounted Net Carrying
Value
   
Face Value
   
Discounted Net Carrying
Value
 
Non-performing Assets
                       
Non-accrual loans
  $ 12,338     $ 9,874     $ 37,201     $ 29,824  
Loans 90+ days past due
    1,458       1,423       4,087       3,997  
Restructured loans
    7,871       7,565       4,087       3,997  
Other real estate owned
    10,152       9,573       10,978       10,622  
Total non-performing assets
  $ 31,819     $ 28,435     $ 52,266     $ 44,443  
                                 
(1) Face value includes reductions for interest payments received on loans while on non-accrual status in accordance with the cost recovery method of accounting for non-accrual loans.
 
 
Excluding the non-performing assets at December 31, 2012 from the Abigail Adams acquisition, the $28.8 million of non-performing assets at December 31, 2012 is an increase of $8.8 million over the same measure of non-performing assets at December 31, 2011.  The increase in 2012 is largely due to a $3.4 million increase in non-accrual loans, a $1.9 million increase in accruing loans past due 90 days or more, and a $3.7 million increase in restructured loans.  These increases more than offset a $227,000 decrease in OREO.   Most of Premier’s restructured loans are loans that have been modified to allow the borrower to pay interest only for a limited amount of time.  Although loans may be classified as non-performing, some continue to pay interest irregularly or at less than originally contracted terms. During 2012, approximately $2.7 million of interest income was recognized on non-accrual and restructured loans, including approximately $2.0 million from the recognition of purchase discounts upon loan payoff, while approximately $2.3 million would have been recognized in accordance with their original terms.


 
56


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012

 
Management believes the estimated potential losses related to delinquent loans to be adequately provided for in the allowance for loan losses.  These non-performing assets were included in the analyses that supported the recording of provisions for loan loss during 2010, 2011 and 2012.  As management's efforts to collect on all of the Company’s non-performing assets continue, matured loans are only renewed using Premier's strengthened credit policies. Otherwise, loans may be placed on non-accrual status and foreclosure proceedings begun to obtain and liquidate any collateral securing the past due or matured loans. As previously demonstrated by Premier’s history, management is committed to continuing to reduce its level of non-performing assets and maintaining strong underwriting standards to help maintain a lower level of non-performing assets in the future. Premier's collection efforts at Affiliate Banks in 2003 and 2004 were masked by the high level of non-performing assets at its Farmers Deposit Bank subsidiary, which alone totaled $12.5 million at December 31, 2003. At December 31, 2004, the non-performing assets at Farmers Deposit Bank had declined to $6.8 million, leaving $3.3 million of total non-performing assets at the other Affiliate Banks combined.  By December 31, 2008, total non-performing assets at Farmers Deposit Bank had declined to $1.1 million.  This experience and performance in pursuing the collection of non-performing assets was a factor in management’s decision to pursue the acquisition of Abigail Adams and its high level of non-performing assets.  While the circumstances related to the collection of every non-performing loan are different, with the benefit of the additional capital provided by Premier’s participation in the TARP Capital Purchase Program and the requirement to record the non-performing assets at their estimated fair value at acquisition date, management believes it will be successful in resolving a majority of the non-performing assets acquired from Abigail Adams.
 
The Loan Summary table presents five years of comparative non-performing asset information. Other than these loans and the impaired loans discussed in Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements, Premier does not have a significant volume of loans where management has serious doubts about the borrowers’ ability to comply with the present repayment terms of the loan.
 
It is Premier's policy to place loans that are past due over 90 days on non-accrual status, unless the loans are adequately secured and in the process of collection. Premier has $5.2 million of construction and land development loans on non-accrual status at December 31, 2012 whereby additional funds may be needed by the borrower to complete the project.  For real estate loans, upon repossession, the balance of the loan is transferred to "Other Real Estate Owned" (OREO) and carried at the lower of the outstanding loan balance or the fair value of the property based on current appraisals and other current market trends, less estimated disposal costs. If a writedown of the OREO property is necessary at the time of foreclosure, the amount is charged against the allowance for loan losses. A periodic review of the recorded property value is performed in conjunction with normal loan reviews, and if market conditions indicate that the recorded value exceeds the fair market value less estimated disposal costs, additional writedowns of the property value are charged directly to operations.


 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012

 
During 2012, Premier recorded $1.4 million of writedowns of OREO properties that were partially offset by $453,000 of gains on the disposition of OREO properties, resulting in a net expense in 2012 of $958,000.  This expense compares to $624,000 of OREO writedowns in 2011 which were more than offset by $1.0 million of gains on the disposition of OREO properties, resulting in a $394,000 net reduction in operating expense.  During 2010, Premier realized $516,000 net reduction in operation expense as $36,000 of OREO writedowns were more than offset by $552,000 of gains on the disposition of OREO.  The gains realized in 2012 are largely due to sales of OREO properties acquired via the Abigail Adams acquisition.  Real estate values in and around Washington, DC have improved in 2012 compared to 2009 when Abigail Adams was acquired.  The writedowns on OREO that were recorded in 2012 were largely due to two repossessed construction projects where the costs incurred to complete the projects have exceeded original estimates and the properties were adjusted to net realizable value.  The net gains realized in 2011 are largely due to sales of OREO properties acquired via the Abigail Adams acquisition.  Real estate values in and around Washington, DC improved in 2010 and 2011 compared to 2009.  Furthermore, Premier spent funds on repairing or completing certain OREO properties prior to their sale, improving the properties’ salability and market value.  Similar to 2011, the net gains realized in 2010 are largely due to sales of OREO properties acquired via the Abigail Adams acquisition which had improved values at the time of sale, or were properties where Premier spent funds on repairing or completing certain properties prior to their sale.
 
The allowance for loan losses is maintained to absorb probable incurred losses associated with lending activities. Actual losses are charged against the allowance ("charge-offs") while collections on loans previously charged off ("recoveries") are added back to the allowance.  Since actual losses within a given loan portfolio are difficult to predict, management uses a significant amount of estimation and judgment to determine the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses. Factors considered in determining the adequacy of the allowance include an individual assessment of risk on certain loans and total creditor relationships, historical charge-off experience, the type of loan, levels of non-performing and past due loans, and an evaluation of current economic conditions. Loans are evaluated for credit risk and assigned a risk grade. Premier's risk grading criteria are based upon Federal Reserve guidelines and definitions. In evaluating the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses, loans that are assigned passing grades are grouped together and multiplied by historical charge-off percentages to determine an estimated amount of potential losses and a corresponding amount of allowance. Loans that are assigned marginally passing grades are grouped together and allocated slightly higher percentages to determine the estimated amount of potential losses due to the identification of increased risk(s). Loans that are assigned a grade of "substandard" or "doubtful" are more likely to be classified as impaired.  The resulting estimate of losses for groups of loans is adjusted for relevant environmental factors and other conditions of the portfolio of loans, including: borrower and industry concentrations; levels and trends in delinquencies, charge-offs and recoveries; changes in underwriting standards and risk selection; level of experience, ability and depth of lending management; and national and local economic conditions.


 
58


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012

 
A loan is categorized and reported as impaired when it is probable that the borrower will be unable to pay all of the principal and interest amounts according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. In determining whether a loan is impaired, management considers such factors as past payment history, recent economic events, current and projected financial conditions and other relevant information that is available at the time. Impairment is evaluated in total for smaller-balance loans of similar nature such as residential mortgage, consumer, and credit card loans, and on an individual basis for other loans. If a loan is deemed to be impaired, an evaluation of the amount of estimated loss is performed, assessing the present value of estimated future cash flows using the loan's existing rate or assessing the fair and realizable value of the loan collateral if repayment is expected solely from the collateral. The estimation of loss is assigned to the impaired loan and is used in determining the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses. For impaired loans, this estimation of loss is reevaluated quarterly and, if necessary, adjusted based upon the current known facts and circumstances related to the loan and the borrower. Additional information on Premier's impaired loans is contained in Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements.
 
The sum of the calculations and estimations of the risk of loss in the loan portfolio is compared to the recorded balance of the allowance for loan losses. If the total allowance is deemed to be inadequate, a charge to earnings is recorded to increase the allowance.  In 2012, Premier recorded $4,260,000 of provision for loan losses compared to $3,630,000 of provision for loan losses in 2011 and $3,297,000 of provision for loan losses in 2010.  Conversely, should an evaluation of the allowance result in a lower estimate of the risk of loss in the loan portfolio and the allowance is deemed to be more than adequate, a reversal of previous charges to earnings ("a negative provision") may be warranted in the current period. Events that may lead to negative provisions include greater than anticipated recoveries, a reduction in the historical loss ratios, securing more collateral on an impaired loan during the collection process, or receiving payment in full on an impaired loan.
 
At December 31, 2012, the allowance for loan losses was $11.5 million, or 1.63% of total year-end loans, compared to an allowance for loan losses of $9.8 million, or 1.42% of total loans at December 31, 2011.  Although total loans outstanding increased by $13.7 million in 2012, the increase in the ratio to 1.63% was largely due to the $4.3 million of provision for loan losses in 2012 exceeding the $2.6 million of net charge-offs, adding $1.7 million to the allowance for loan losses at year-end.  The percentage increase in the allowance for loan losses exceed the percentage increase in loans outstanding resulting in the higher ratio at December 31, 2012.  The increase in the level of provision expense in 2012 was largely due to increases in specific reserves on loans already identified as impaired and also due to specific reserves on loans newly identified as impaired during 2012.
 
At December 31, 2011, the allowance for loan losses was $9.8 million, or 1.42% of total year-end loans, compared to an allowance for loan losses of $9.9 million, or 1.36% of total loans at December 31, 2010.  The increase in the ratio of the allowance to total loans in 2011 was largely the result of a $35.0 million decrease in total loans at December 31, 2011.  The $3.6 million of provision for loan losses in 2011 was slightly offset by $3.7 million of net charge-offs

 
59


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


recorded in 2011, reducing the allowance by approximately $70,000.  The increase in the level of provision expense during 2011 was largely to provide for a calculated increase in exposure to credit risk related to one borrowing relationship in Premier’s Kentucky market identified during the second quarter.  The loan was eventually charged-off in the fourth quarter of 2011.  While Premier is continuing to pursue available collection remedies, management determined that the borrowing relationship should be charged-off in accordance with the Company’s loan policies and procedures.
 
At December 31, 2010, the allowance for loan losses was $9.9 million, or 1.36% of total year-end loans, compared to an allowance for loan losses of $7.6 million, or 1.08% of total loans at December 31, 2009.  The increase in the ratio of the allowance to total loans in 2010 was the result of $3.3 million of additional provisions for loan losses exceeding the $1.0 million of net charge-offs.  The additional provisions for loan losses recorded in 2010 were largely due to $2.2 million of provisions recorded for loans acquired from Abigail Adams as loans were reanalyzed for impairment throughout the year.  The remaining banks recorded a collective provision for loan losses of $1.1 million in 2010, which is similar to the provision recorded by these banks in 2009.  A summary of the allowance for loan losses allocated by loan type is presented in the Loan Summary Table above.
 
The following table provides a more detailed history of the allowance for loan losses, illustrating charge-offs and recoveries by loan type, and the annual provision for loan losses over the past five years.  Since 2008, the deterioration in the national economy and its impact on the local economy in its markets has resulted in increases in past due loans and non-performing assets for Premier.  As the deterioration in the national economy and its impact on Premier’s local economies has continued through 2012, some of the increases in past due loans and non-performing assets in prior years became charged-off loans.  Additional provisions for loan losses were recorded in 2009 as the estimated credit risk in the remaining loan portfolio was evaluated.  The level of additional provisions increased in 2010 to provide for estimated loan impairment, primarily as additional loans from the acquisition of Abigail Adams were downgraded and analyzed for impairment.  The increase in the level of provision expense during 2011 was largely to provide for a calculated increase in exposure to credit risk related to one borrowing relationship in Premier’s Kentucky market identified during the second quarter.  In 2012, the increase in the level of provision expense was largely due to increases in specific reserves on loans already identified as impaired and also due to specific reserves on loans newly identified as impaired during 2012.  Additional details on the activity in the allowance for loan losses as well as past due and non-performing loans, including loans individually evaluated for impairment, is contained in Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements.
 
Premier aggressively pursues past due loans in an effort to bring those loans back to current status.  If these efforts fail and a past due loan becomes a non-performing loan, Premier’s policies for determining the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses are used to determine the estimated potential loss on the loan.  Future provisions to the allowance for loan losses, positive or negative, will depend on future improvement or deterioration in estimated credit risk in the loan portfolio as well as whether additional payments are received on loans

 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


having significant credit risk.  Premier continually evaluates the adequacy of its allowance for loan losses, and changes in the provision are based on the estimated probable incurred losses in the loan portfolio.

SUMMARY OF LOAN LOSS EXPERIENCE
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
   
For the Year Ended December 31
 
   
2012
   
2011
   
2010
   
2009
   
2008
 
Allowance for loan losses beginning of period
  $ 9,795     $ 9,865     $ 7,569     $ 8,544     $ 6,497  
Amounts charged off:
                                       
Commercial, financial and agricultural loans
    1,485       227       466       777       547  
Real estate construction loans
    380       2,747       59       37       0  
Real estate loans – other
    1,061       900       635       1,171       369  
Consumer installment loans
    227       152       313       452       316  
Total charge-offs
    3,153       4,026       1,473       2,437       1,232  
                                         
Recoveries on amounts previously charged-off:
                                       
Commercial, financial and agricultural loans
    126       121       131       82       113  
Real estate construction loans
    -       1       40       -       33  
Real estate loans – other
    359       116       131       208       459  
Consumer installment loans
    101       88       170       120       227  
Total recoveries
    586       326       472       410       832  
                                         
Net charge-offs
    2,567       3,700       1,001       2,027       400  
Balance of acquired subsidiaries
    -       -       -       -       2,300  
Provision for loan losses
    4,260       3,630       3,297       1,052       147  
                                         
Allowance for loan losses, end of period
  $ 11,488     $ 9,795     $ 9,865     $ 7,569     $ 8,544  
                                         
Average total loans
  $ 682,957     $ 704,566     $ 702,194     $ 526,473     $ 417,065  
Total loans at year-end
    704,625       690,923       725,964       699,133       467,111  
                                         
As a percent of average loans
                                       
Net charge-offs
    0.38 %     0.53 %     0.14 %     0.39 %     0.10 %
Provision for loan losses
    0.62 %     0.52 %     0.47 %     0.20 %     0.04 %
Allowance for loan losses
    1.68 %     1.39 %     1.40 %     1.44 %     2.05 %
                                         
As a percent of total loans at year-end
                                       
Allowance for loan losses
    1.63 %     1.42 %     1.36 %     1.08 %     1.83 %
                                         
As a multiple of net charge-offs
                                       
Allowance for loan losses
    4.48 X     2.65 X     9.86 X     3.73 X     21.36 X
Income before tax and provision for loan losses
    7.89 X     3.95 X     16.27 X     6.46 X     28.66 X
   


 
61


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012

 
Net charge-offs in 2012 totaled $2.6 million, as $3.2 million of loans charged-off were partially offset by $0.6 million of recoveries of loans previously charged-off.  Net charge-offs in 2011 totaled $3.7 million, as $4.0 million of loans charged-off were partially offset by $0.3 million of recoveries of loans previously charged-off.  Net charge-offs in 2010 totaled $1.0 million, as $1.5 million of loans charged-off were partially offset by $0.5 million of recoveries of loans previously charged-off.
 
In 2012, total charge-offs decreased by $873,000 to $3.2 million, or 0.46% of average total loans.  While charge-offs of commercial loans increased by $1.3 million in 2012, real estate construction and land development loan charge-offs decreased by $2.4 million, largely due to the charge-off of a real estate construction and land development loan related to one borrowing relationship in Premier’s Kentucky market in 2011.  Otherwise, charge-offs of both real estate secured loans and consumer installment loans increased slightly in 2012 compared to 2011.  In 2011, total charge-offs increased by $2.5 million to $4.0 million, or 0.57% of average total loans, largely due to the charge-off the real estate construction and land development loan related to one borrowing relationship in Premier’s Kentucky market.  Otherwise, Premier realized reduced levels of charge-offs in commercial and consumer loans in 2011.  These decreases were partially offset by an increase in the level of charge-off of loans secured by real estate.  In 2010, total charge-offs decreased by $1.0 million to $1.5 million, or 0.21% of average total loans, as Premier realized reduced levels of charge-offs in commercial, consumer and real-estate secured loans.  In 2012, total charge-offs on the loans acquired from Abigail Adams amounted to $1.1 million compared to $444,000 in 2011 and $196,000 in 2010.  The charge-offs in 2010 were substantially offset by $117,000 of recoveries on loans during the year, while $119,000 of recoveries were recorded on the Abigail Adams portfolio in 2011 and only $21,000 of recoveries were recorded in 2012.
 
Although management believes it has identified the significant remaining credit risk in the loan portfolio, additional charge-offs may be recorded in the coming months due to the level of non-performing loans and the resolution of collection efforts on those loans. Premier continues to make a significant effort to reduce its past due and non-performing loans by reviewing loan files, using the courts to bring borrowers current with the terms of their loan agreements and/or the foreclosure and sale of OREO properties.  As in the past, when these plans are executed, Premier may experience increases in non-performing loans and non-performing assets. Furthermore, any resulting increases in loans placed on non-accrual status will have a negative impact on future loan interest income.  Also, as these plans are executed, other loans may be identified that would necessitate additional charge-offs and potentially additional provisions for loan losses.  Premier continues to monitor and evaluate the impact that national housing market price declines may have on its local markets and collateral valuations as management evaluates the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses.  While some price deterioration is expected, it is not currently anticipated that Premier’s markets will be impacted as severely as other areas of the country due to the historically modest increases in real estate values in the Company’s markets in West Virginia, Ohio and Kentucky. With the concentrations of commercial real estate loans acquired in the Washington, DC and Richmond, Virginia markets, fluctuations in commercial real estate values will also be monitored.  In 2010, 2011 and again in 2012, Premier sold some OREO properties at a

 
62


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


gain, which may indicate stabilization in commercial real estate values.  These factors are considered in determining the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses.
 
The following table presents the maturity distribution and interest sensitivity of selected loan categories at December 31, 2012.  Maturities are based upon contractual terms.

LOAN MATURITIES and INTEREST SENSITIVITY
 
December 31, 2012
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
                         
   
Projected Maturities*
       
   
One Year or Less
   
One Through Five Years
   
Over
Five Years
   
Total
 
Commercial, secured by real estate
  $ 153,951     $ 153,020     $ 7,227     $ 314,198  
Commercial, other
    46,352       37,038       1,040       84,430  
Real estate construction
    37,227       13,195       2,284       52,706  
Agricultural
    691       1,733       142       2,566  
Total
  $ 238,221     $ 204,986     $ 10,693     $ 453,900  
                                 
Fixed rate loans
  $ 73,019     $ 124,324     $ 6,189     $ 203,532  
Floating rate loans
    165,202       80,662       4,504       250,368  
Total
  $ 238,221     $ 204,986     $ 10,693     $ 453,900  
                                 
Fixed rate loans projected to mature after one year
                          $ 130,513  
Floating rate loans projected to mature after one year
                            85,166  
Total
                          $ 215,679  
                                 
(*) Based on scheduled or approximate repayments
                               

 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


Investment Portfolio and
Other Earning Assets
 
Investment securities averaged $301.4 million in 2012, up $12.8 million, or 4.4%, from the $288.6 million averaged in 2011.  This increase follows a $38.6 million, or 15.4%, increase in 2011 from the $250.0 million averaged in 2010.  The increase during 2012 is largely attributable to weak loan demand.  During 2012, as loan payments and payoffs exceeded the demand for new loans, some of the proceeds from the loan payments were invested in investment securities.  This was especially true during the first half of 2012.  Likewise, the increase during 2011 is largely attributable to the growth in funding from non-interest bearing deposits coupled with weak loan demand.  Also contributing to the increase in average investments in 2012 was the use of lower-yielding, interest bearing bank balances and federal funds sold to purchase investment securities.  Investment securities are highly liquid and generally have a greater yield than interest bearing bank balances or federal funds sold.  However their longer investment term generally results in greater interest rate risk over other short-term investments.
 
This was believed to be especially true in 2012 and 2011, as management continued to invest based on a belief that market interest rates were at their lowest level and that buying longer-term investments would have the effect of locking-in these lowest interest rates over the life of the investments.  Due to the low interest rate environment during 2010 and continuing throughout 2012, issuers of investment securities were routinely invoking call features within their securities and reissuing new bonds at lower coupon rates.  During 2010, $276.7 million of Premier’s investment securities were either called or matured compared to $149.2 million during 2009.  To offset some of the effects of interest rate risk in the investment portfolio, Premier purchased collateralized mortgage obligations (“CMO’s”) issued by the Government National Mortgage Association (“GNMA”), also known as “Ginnie Mae”.  These CMO’s are similar to U.S. Treasury bonds in that they are backed by the full faith and credit of the United States Government, but unlike U.S. Treasury bonds, return a portion of the principal each month coinciding with the monthly principal payments made by mortgage borrowers collateralizing the securities.  It is the monthly return of principal that will allow Premier to take advantage of any rise in market interest rates by investing the principal payments in future higher-yielding securities long before the final maturity date of the CMO.  An added feature of these GNMA CMO’s is that the securities are not subject to early call provisions.  Only the mortgagees’ prepayment of their underlying mortgages can accelerate the principal reduction on the investment security.  Thus, the purchase yield is not as susceptible to downward interest rate risks as investment securities with call features. This benefit is illustrated by the lower amount of Premier’s securities that were either called or matured in 2012 and 2011.  During 2012, $67.3 million of investments were called or matured (including principal payments on CMO’s and mortgage backed securities) and during 2011, $107.1 million of investments were called or matured compared to $276.7 million during 2010.


 
64


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012

 
At December 31, 2012 the amount of investments totaled $284.0 million, up $5.5 million or 2.0% from the $278.5 million of investments at December 31, 2011.  The increase in investments is largely due to the utilization of Premier’s more liquid yet lower yielding interest bearing bank balances and federal funds sold, both of which have decreased since December 31, 2011.  The increase in 2012 follows a $22.0 million, or 8.6% increase in 2011 from the balance of investments at December 31, 2010.  The increase in investments in 2011 is largely due to additional funds from loan payments and payoffs exceeding the demand for new loans.  Much of these funds were reinvested in investment securities rather than held in interest-bearing bank balances.

The following table presents the carrying values of investment securities.

FAIR VALUE OF SECURITIES AVAILABLE FOR SALE
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
   
As of December 31
 
   
2012
   
2011
   
2010
 
                   
U.S. government sponsored entity securities
  $ 22,244     $ 18,141     $ 52,427  
States and political subdivisions
    7,860       9,650       10,306  
Mortgage-backed securities issued by government sponsored entities
    249,947       245,993       187,504  
Corporate securities
    3,924       4,695       6,283  
Total securities
  $ 283,975     $ 278,479     $ 256,520  
                         
 
As sources of funds (deposits, federal funds purchased, and repurchase agreements with corporate customers) fluctuate, excess funds are initially invested in federal funds sold and other short-term investments. Based upon analyses of asset/liability repricing, interest rate forecasts, and liquidity requirements, funds are periodically reinvested in high-quality debt securities, which typically mature over a longer period of time. At the time of purchase, management determines whether the securities will be classified as trading, available-for-sale, or held-to-maturity. At December 31, 2012 all of Premier's investments were classified as available-for-sale and carried at fair value.
 
As shown in the following Securities Maturity and Yield Analysis table, the average maturity period of the securities available-for-sale at December 31, 2012 was 3 years and 1 month. The table uses a weighted estimated average life method to report the average maturity of mortgage-backed securities, which includes the estimated effect of monthly payments and prepayments. The average maturity of the investment portfolio is managed at a level to maintain a proper matching with interest rate risk guidelines. Premier does not have any securities classified as trading or held-to-maturity and it has no plans to establish such classifications at the present time. Other information regarding investment securities may be found in the following table and in Note 4 to the consolidated financial statements.


 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


SECURITIES MATURITY AND YIELD ANALYSIS
 
December 31, 2012
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
   
Market Value
   
Average Maturity (yrs/mos)
   
Taxable Equivalent Yield*
 
U.S. government sponsored entity securities
                 
After one but within five years
  $ 14,169             1.33 %
After five but within ten years
    8,075             1.76  
Total U.S. government sponsored entity securities
  $ 22,244       5/0       1.49  
                         
States and political subdivisions
                       
Within one year
    158               4.53  
After one but within five years
    5,948               4.66  
After five but within ten years
    1,754               3.80  
Total states and political subdivisions securities
  $ 7,860       4/0       4.46  
                         
Mortgage-backed securities**
                       
Within one year
    1,977               3.03  
After one but within five years
    247,902               2.64  
After five but within ten years
    38               1.72  
After ten years
    30               2.25  
Total mortgage-backed securities
  $ 249,947       2/8       2.65  
                         
Other securities
                       
Within one year
    524               4.47  
Over ten years
    1,824               10.69  
Total other securities
  $ 2,348       27/7       9.30  
                         
Corporate preferred securities
    1,576       n/a       10.80  
                         
Total securities available-for-sale
  $ 283,975       3/1       2.71  
                         
(*)  Fully tax-equivalent using the rate of 34%
                       
(**)  Maturities for mortgage-backed securities are based on expected average life
                       

 
66


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012

 
Premier’s average investment in federal funds sold and interest bearing bank balances decreased 19.9% in 2012 compared to 2011.  This decrease follows a 13.2% decrease in 2011.  Averaging $57.9 million in 2012, federal funds sold and interest bearing bank balances decreased $14.4 million from the $72.2 million in 2011.  The decrease in 2012 reflects the utilization of some of these funds to repay Premier’s $10.1 million of FHLB debt upon maturity in 2012, to purchase additional investment securities and satisfy deposit withdrawals.  The decrease in 2011 reflects the migration of some of Premier’s most highly liquid yet lowest yielding assets into higher yielding investment securities.  As shown in the Consolidated Average Balance Sheets and Net Interest Income Analysis above, on average, the yield on federal funds sold dropped to 0.05% in 2010 and 2011 and rose slightly to 0.06% in 2012 in accordance with the Federal Reserve’s Board of Governors’ policy to maintain the federal funds rate between 0.00% and 0.25%.  To obtain higher yields on its most highly liquid funds, in 2009 Premier began shifting some of its federal funds sold to certificates of deposits with other banks and other interest-bearing bank balances, primarily with the Federal Reserve Bank, which yielded, on average, 0.38% in 2009 and 0.26% in 2010.  This practice continued in 2011 and 2012 as the yield on interest bearing bank balances averaged 0.28% in 2011 and 0.30% in 2012, far exceeding the yield on average federal funds sold.
 
The average balance of federal funds sold decreased by $3.9 million in 2012 to $11.3 million, while average interest bearing bank balances decreased by $10.4 million in 2012 to $46.6 million.  The majority of these interest bearing bank balances are held at Federal Reserve Banks.  Yields on federal funds sold rise and fall in direct correlation with interest rate changes made by the Federal Reserve Board in establishing national economic policy.  Investment security yields are based on a number of pricing factors, including but not limited to coupon rate, time to maturity and issuer credit quality.  Fluctuations in the amount of federal funds sold and other short-term investments reflect management's goal to maximize asset yields while maintaining proper asset/liability structure, as discussed in greater detail above and in other sections of this report.
 
Funding Sources
In response to the Federal Reserve policy to reduce market interest rates by lowering the targeted federal funds rate, in 2008 Premier began cutting its rates paid on its interest bearing deposits.  This change follows a three-year period during which Premier was raising the rates paid on its interest bearing deposits in response to the increase in market interest rates.  As a result, the average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities decreased to 0.82% in 2012, down from the 1.03% paid in 2011, and the 1.21% paid in 2010.  The 21 basis point decrease in 2012 was primarily the result of a 24 basis point decrease in the average rate paid on certificates of deposits and other time deposits, which made up 48.1% of the total average interest bearing liabilities in 2012.  Other rate decreases on deposits in 2012 include a 9 basis point decrease on savings deposits and a 5 basis point decrease on NOW and money market accounts.  Similarly, in 2012, Premier decreased the rate paid on its short-term borrowings, primarily repurchase agreements with deposit customers, by 21 basis points.

 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012

 
The 18 basis point decrease in the average rate paid on interest bearing liabilities in 2011 was primarily the result of a 36 basis point decrease in the average rate paid on certificates of deposit and other time deposits, which made up 50.7% of the total average interest bearing liabilities in 2011.  Other rate decreases on deposits in 2011 include a 2 basis point decrease on savings deposits while the rate on NOW and money market accounts remained unchanged in 2011 from 2010.  Likewise, in 2010, Premier decreased the rate paid on its short-term borrowings, primarily repurchase agreements with deposit customers, by 6 basis points.
 
The Company’s FHLB advances were fixed rate borrowings and thus yields increase or decrease usually as a result of payments and maturities.  In the first half of 2010, $4.0 million of Premier’s highest rate FHLB advances, averaging 6.45%, matured, lowering the average rate paid on its long-term FHLB advances, in 2010 and 2011.  As a result, the average rate paid on FHLB advances decreased by 171 basis points in 2010 to 2.51% and decreased another 66 basis points in 2011 to 1.85%.  In 2012, all remaining FHLB advances were repaid at maturity.  The effect was an increase in the average rate paid to 2.19%.
 
Countering the trend of lower rates paid on interest-bearing liabilities in 2011 was the average rate paid on other borrowings, which increased 33 basis points to 4.45% in 2011.  The average rate paid on other borrowings decreased only slightly to 4.43% in 2012.  Increasing the overall rate paid on other borrowings was the $11.3 million borrowed from the Bankers’ Bank of Kentucky (“Bankers’ Bank”) on September 8, 2010.  The new borrowing has a minimum interest rate of 4.50%.  The proceeds were used to refinance $5.3 million of existing debt with the Bankers’ Bank and to inject $6.0 million of capital into Premier’s subsidiary bank, Citizens Deposit Bank, to facilitate the bank’s purchase of four branches from Integra Bank.  The effect of this new borrowing was to increase the average rate paid in 2011 to 4.45%.  At the end of 2009, Premier converted its largest dollar borrowing at the time, the $10.0 million owed to First Guaranty Bank, to a fixed rate of interest of 3.96% through its remaining maturity date on April 30, 2013.  The fixed rate was slightly higher than the variable rate paid on the borrowing, but as a fixed rate, the interest rate would not increase until maturity.  As Premier reduced the principal on the higher rate Banker’s Bank borrowing at a faster rate than the borrowing from First Guaranty Bank, the average rate paid on other borrowings decreased in 2012 by 2 basis points.
 
Due to alternative sources of investment and an ever increasing sophistication of customers in funds management techniques to maximize return on their money, competition for funds has become more intense.  Other financial institutions that compete in local markets with Premier that have a need to increase liquidity offer special above market rate deposit products to attract additional funds.  Premier's banks periodically offer special rate products to retain their deposit base or attract additional deposits.
 
Premier’s deposits, on average, decreased by $20.3 million, or 2.1%, in 2012 following a $31.0 million or 3.3% increase in 2011 from 2010 average deposits.  The decrease in 2012 average deposits is partially due to the full year impact of the withdrawal of $37.6 million of funds by the District of Columbia government reported in the second quarter of 2011.  Local government

 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


deposits are typically volatile deposits, as local governments routinely seek higher returns on their deposit accounts.  Average non-interest bearing deposits decreased by $12.2 million, or 5.8%, in 2012.  Another factor in Premier’s decrease in average total deposits in 2012 was the continuing decrease in rates paid on certificates of deposit.  Customers shopping for higher yielding certificates of deposit withdrew their funds upon maturity, while other customers deposited their maturing certificate of deposit funds in interest bearing transaction accounts keeping their funds readily available rather than investing in a new certificate of deposit over a longer time frame.  In 2012, average certificates of deposit and other time deposits decreased by 7.8%, or $31.8 million, to $378.4 million.  Partially offsetting this decrease, average money market and other interest bearing transaction oriented deposits increased by 8.0%, or $18.4 million, in 2012 while average savings deposits increased by 4.7%, or $5.4 million.  The combined decrease in average interest bearing deposit balances in 2012 was 1.1%, or $8.1 million.
 
The increase in 2011 average deposits is primarily attributable to the full year impact of the $74.1 million of deposits assumed via the Branch Purchase in September 2010.  This increase in deposits more than offset the withdrawal of $37.6 million of funds by the District of Columbia government reported in the second quarter of 2011.  In 2011, average money market and other interest bearing transaction oriented deposits decreased by $14.8 million, or 6.1%, while average savings deposits increased by $14.1 million, or 14.0% and average non-interest bearing deposits increased by $30.7 million, or 17.2%.  In 2011, average certificates of deposit and other time deposits remained relatively unchanged, increasing by only 0.2% or $1.0 million, to $410.2 million.  In 2011, average non-interest bearing deposits totaled $209.2 million, a $30.7 million or 17.2% increase from the average in 2010.  The increase in 2011 includes the benefit of the full year inclusion of the non-interest bearing deposits assumed from the Branch Purchase in September 2010 as well as increases recorded at each of the affiliate banks.  Since no interest is paid on these deposits, an increase in non-interest bearing deposits helps to increase Premier's net interest margin and its profitability. Non-interest bearing deposits are more susceptible to withdrawal and therefore may provide challenges to maintaining adequate liquidity. (See the additional discussion on liquidity below.)  Most customers are still keeping their maturity choices short in order to take advantage of possible higher interest rates in the future.  While offering some “special” certificate of deposit rates to remain competitive, Premier continues to focus on building its base of customer relationships by offering more convenient electronic banking products to its non-interest bearing deposit customers.




 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


The following table provides information on the maturities of time deposits of $100,000 or more at December 31, 2012.

MATURITY OF TIME DEPOSITS $100,000 OR MORE
 
December 31, 2012
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Maturing 3 months or less
  $ 16,818  
Maturing over 3 months
    28,181  
Maturing over 6 months
    38,058  
Maturing over 12 months
    63,141  
Total
  $ 146,198  
         
 
Other funding sources for Premier include short and long-term borrowings. Premier's short-term borrowings primarily consist of securities sold under agreements to repurchase with commercial, public entity and tax exempt organization customers.  These are short-term non-FDIC insured deposit-like products that are secured by the pledging of investment securities in Premier’s investment portfolio or by purchasing insurance through the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB).  Also included in short-term borrowings are federal funds purchased from other banks and overnight borrowings from the FHLB or the Federal Reserve Bank (FRB) discount window. These short-term borrowings fluctuate depending on near term funding needs and as part of Premier's management of its asset/liability mix.  In 2012 average short-term borrowings decreased by $3.8 million or 15.1% as the migration of public fund repurchase agreements to interest-bearing transaction deposit accounts in Premier’s Ohio more than offset the increase in repurchase agreements in its DC Metro market.  In 2011, average short-term borrowings increased by $0.7 million or 2.7% as increases in repurchase agreements in Premier’s Kentucky markets more than offset decreases in repurchase agreements in its DC Metro market.
 
Long-term borrowings consist of FHLB borrowings by Premier’s Affiliate Banks and other borrowings by the parent holding company.  FHLB borrowings, on average, decreased by $8.4 million, or 81.8%, in 2012 as Premier repaid all outstanding FHLB borrowings upon maturity in 2012.  FHLB borrowings, on average, decreased by $1.9 million, or 15.5%, in 2011 largely the result of the full year impact of $4.0 million of FHLB borrowings that matured in May 2010 and were repaid out of excess liquid assets.  Premier uses fixed rate FHLB advances from time-to-time to fund certain residential and commercial loans as well to maximize investment opportunities as part of its interest rate risk management.  At December 31, 2012, all FHLB advances have been repaid.




 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012

 
In 2006, Premier refinanced the remaining $15.7 million of its 9.75% Junior Subordinated Deferrable Interest Debentures ("Subordinated Debentures") that were due in 2027. The refinancing was accomplished using two separate bank borrowings at the parent company and $2.2 million of cash held by the parent in its subsidiary banks.
 
On January 31, 2006, Premier borrowed $7.0 million from First Guaranty Bank in Hammond, Louisiana.  On April 30, 2008, Premier refinanced the remaining $2.6 million of this note and borrowed an additional $9.0 million which was used to fund the cash needed to purchase Traders Bankshares, Inc in 2008.  The $11.6 million note, dated April 30, 2008, bore interest floating daily at the “Wall Street Journal” prime rate (the “Index”) minus 1.00% and required 59 monthly principal payments of $50,000 and one final payment of $8.6 million due at maturity on April 30, 2013.  If the Index fell between 5.00% and 6.00%, the interest on the note was 5.00%.  If the Index fell below 5.00%, then the interest on the note would float with the Index.  On December 31, 2009, Premier converted the borrowing to a fixed rate of interest of 3.96% per annum through its remaining maturity date on April 30, 2013.  The note is secured by a pledge of 25% of Premier’s interest in Premier Bank (a wholly owned subsidiary) under Commercial Pledge Agreement modified on May 3, 2011.
 
On November 10, 2006, Premier borrowed $6.5 million from The Bankers’ Bank of Kentucky, Inc. of Frankfort, Kentucky (“Bankers’ Bank”) under a term note bearing interest floating daily at the JP Morgan Chase Co. prime rate minus 1.00% and requiring 83 monthly principal and interest payments of $100,000 and a final payment of any balance due at maturity on November 9, 2013.  On December 22, 2008, the Company executed and delivered to Bankers’ Bank a modification agreement whereby the interest rate would not fall below 3.00% or exceed 6.00% for the remaining term of the note.  On October 30, 2009, Premier received $2.4 million from the Bankers’ Bank as a draw on the Company’s $4.3 million line of credit under a Promissory Note whereby Premier may request and receive monies from Bankers’ Bank from time to time.  The proceeds were used to refinance a portion of the long-term debt assumed from the Abigail Adams holding company.
 
On September 8, 2010, the Company executed and delivered to Bankers’ Bank a Term Note and Business Loan Agreement dated September 8, 2010 in the principal amount of $11.3 million, bearing interest floating daily at the “JP Morgan Chase” prime rate with a minimum rate of 4.50% (initially 4.50%) and requiring 120 monthly principal payments of $94,167 plus interest.  The proceeds of this note were used to pay off the remaining $2.9 million balance on Premier’s $6.5 million Term Note with the Bankers’ Bank, pay off the $2.4 million balance on Premier’s $4.3 million Line of Credit with the Bankers’ Bank and provide a $6.0 million capital injection into Citizens Deposit Bank and Trust (“Citizens”), Premier’s wholly owned subsidiary, to facilitate Citizens’ purchase of four branches from Integra Bank.  The note is secured by a pledge of Premier’s 100% interest in Citizens, a wholly owned subsidiary of Premier, under a Stock Pledge and Security Agreement modified on August 16, 2012.  With execution of this note, the right to draw funds under the $4.3 million line of credit with Bankers’ Bank was terminated.


 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012

 
In 2012 and 2011, Premier made all scheduled principal and interest payments on both notes as well as limited prepayments on the borrowing from First Guaranty Bank and the September 8, 2010 borrowing from Bankers’ Bank. For more information on other borrowings, see Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements.
 
On May 13, 2010, Premier entered into a six-year data processing agreement with Fidelity Information Systems (“FIS”).  The agreement covers Premier’s core data processing, item processing, internet banking services, network services, customer authentication services and electronic funds transfer services and began in November 2011 upon the expiration of Premier’s contracts with its previous providers.  Premier and FIS scheduled individual bank conversions beginning in May 2011 and continued throughout the third quarter of 2011.  Based upon the average billings for services rendered during the last three months of 2012, the estimated payments to FIS for these services under existing contracts will be approximately $2.1 million per year beginning in 2013. Actual results may vary depending upon the number and type of accounts actually processed and future customer activity.
 
The Washington Division main office and branch locations of Premier Bank in and around the Washington DC metro area are all leased under various non-cancelable operating leases. These non-cancelable operating leases are subject to renewal options under various terms. Some leases provide for periodic rate adjustments based on cost-of-living index changes.  The leases have terms ranging from 2013 through 2018.  Future minimum payments under the operating leases are included in the table below.

PAYMENTS DUE ON CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS
 
December 31, 2012
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
       
   
Total
   
Less than one year
   
1-3
 years
   
3-5
 years
   
More than five years
 
                               
Other borrowed funds
  $ 16,049     $ 8,579     $ 2,260     $ 2,260     $ 2,950  
Operating lease obligations
    3,749       952       1,398       1,292       107  
Data and item processing contracts*
    9,804       2,064       4,128       3,612       -  
Total
  $ 29,602     $ 11,595     $ 7,786     $ 7,164     $ 3,057  
                                         
* Data and item processing contractual obligations are estimated using the average billing for the last three months of 2012.
 


 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


Asset/Liability Management and Market Risk
 
Asset/liability management is a means of maximizing net interest income while minimizing interest rate risk by planning and controlling the mix and maturities of interest related assets and liabilities. Premier has established an Asset/Liability Management Committee (ALCO) for the purpose of monitoring and managing interest rate risk and to evaluate investment portfolio strategies. Interest rate risk is the earnings variation that could occur due to changes in market interest rates. The Board of Directors has established policies to monitor and limit exposure to interest rate risk. Premier monitors its interest rate risk through the use of an earnings simulation model developed by an independent third party to analyze net interest income sensitivity.
 
The earnings simulation model uses assumptions, maturity patterns, and reinvestment rates provided by Premier and forecasts the effect of instantaneous movements in interest rates from 100 (1.00%) and 400 (4.00%) basis points, but never below zero.  The most recent earnings simulation model projects that net interest income would increase by approximately 0.4% over the projected stable rate net interest income if interest rates rise by 100 basis points over the next year. Conversely, the simulation projects an approximate 0.8% decrease in net interest income if interest rates fall by 100 basis points over the next year. Within the same time frame, but assuming a 200 basis point movement in interest rates, the simulation projects that net interest income would increase by 2.7% over the projected stable rate net interest income in a rising rate scenario and would decrease by 1.9% in a falling rate scenario. Under both the 100 and 200 basis point simulations, the percentage changes in net interest income are within Premier's ALCO guidelines.
 
The model simulation calculations of present value have certain acceptable shortcomings. The discount rates and prepayment assumptions utilized are based on estimated market interest rate levels for similar loans and securities nationwide as well as actual results for Premier. The unique characteristics of Premier's loans and securities may not necessarily parallel those assumed in the model simulations, and therefore, actual results could likely result in different discount rates, prepayment experiences and present values. The discount rates used for deposits and borrowings are based upon available alternative types and sources of funds which may not necessarily be indicative of the present value of Premier's deposits and borrowings. Premier's deposits have customer relationship advantages that are difficult to simulate. A higher or lower interest rate environment will most likely result in different investment and borrowing strategies by Premier which would be designed to further mitigate any negative effects on the value of, and the net interest earnings generated on Premier's net assets.


 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


The following table presents summary information about the simulation model's interest rate risk measures and results.

   
Year-end
2012
   
Year-end
2011
   
ALCO Guidelines
 
                   
Projected 1-year net interest income
                 
-100 bp change vs. base rate
    -0.8 %     -0.2 %     5 %
+100 bp change vs. base rate
    0.4 %     1.4 %     5 %
Projected 1-year net interest income
                       
-200 bp change vs. base rate
    -1.9 %     -2.4 %     10 %
+200 bp change vs. base rate
    2.7 %     3.5 %     10 %

Liquidity
 
Liquidity is the ability to satisfy demands for deposit withdrawals, lending commitments, and other corporate needs. Premier's liquidity is based on the stable nature of consumer core deposits held by the banking subsidiaries. Likewise, additional liquidity is available from holdings of investment securities and short-term investments which can be readily converted into cash. Furthermore, Premier's banks continue to have the ability to attract short-term sources of funds such as federal funds and repurchase agreements.
 
Premier generated $17.2 million of cash from operations in 2012, which compares to $14.4 million in 2011 and $14.6 million in 2010.  Total cash from operations along with proceeds from the sale and maturity of securities and the repayment of loans were used to purchase securities, satisfy deposit withdrawals, fund new loans and reduce outstanding debt during all three years.  In 2010, $20.0 million of additional cash was generated from investing activities, largely from the net repayment of loans during the year, proceeds from the sale of OREO and cash received via the Branch Purchase exceeding additional investments purchased.  In 2011, $18.4 million of additional cash was generated from investing activities, largely from the net repayment of loans during the year, proceeds from the sale of OREO and cash received from the redemption of FRB stock exceeding additional investments purchased.  In 2012, Premier used $14.4 million of cash in its investing activities primarily to fund new loans and purchase securities, activities that were partially offset by cash proceeds from the sale of OREO and cash received from the maturity and sale of securities.
 
In 2012, Premier used a portion of its cash and cash equivalents held at the end of 2011 to repay its $10.0 million of FHLB advances at maturity.  A portion of the funds used to repay the FHLB advances at maturity came from an increase in deposit balances and an increase in customer repurchase agreements during the year.  Also in 2012, Premier used funds to make $2.1 million of principal payments on other borrowings, pay $1.7 million of common stock dividends, and pay $984,000 of preferred stock dividends.  Finally, during 2012, Premier repurchased 10,252 shares of its Series A Preferred Stock during a dutch auction conducted by the U.S. Treasury in July 2012.  The shares were repurchased for $9.2 million, a discount to the face value, preserving over $1.0 of cash and $905,000 of capital at the Company.  In 2011,

 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


Premier used the $14.4 million of cash from operations, the $18.4 million of additional cash generated from investing activities and a portion of the cash and cash equivalents held at the end of 2010 to satisfy $59.8 million of deposit withdrawals, $6.4 million in decreases in repurchase agreements, pay $4.6 million in principal on FHLB and other borrowings and fund $1.4 million of preferred stock dividends.  In addition to the $14.6 million of cash from operations in 2010, Premier generated $3.0 million in additional cash from financing activities, primarily from the $2.4 million borrowed from the FHLB on an overnight basis and an increase in customer repurchase agreements. Premier also borrowed $11.3 million in 2010.  Some of these funds were used to satisfy deposit withdrawals, pay dividends to shareholders and make principal payments on borrowings.  Details on the sources and uses of cash can be found in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows in the consolidated financial statements.
 
At December 31, 2012, the parent company had $6.1 million in cash held with its subsidiary banks.  This balance, along with cash dividends expected to be received from its subsidiaries, is sufficient to cover the operating costs of the parent, service its existing debt and pay dividends to common and preferred shareholders.  During 2012, the parent company generated $12.3 million of cash from operations and received $192,000 from the exercise of employee stock options.  The proceeds were used to pay $2.1 million in principal payments on long-term borrowings, fund $984,000 of dividends paid on the Series A Preferred Stock, fund $1.7 million of dividends paid to common shareholders, and make additional fixed asset purchases.  Premier also used $9.2 million to repurchase 10,252 shares of its Series A Preferred Stock during a dutch auction conducted by the U.S. Treasury in July 2012.  The shares were repurchased at a discount to the face value, preserving over $1.0 of cash and $905,000 of capital at the parent company.  During 2011, the parent company generated $5.1 million of cash from operations and received $0.4 million from the cash balances of subsidiaries merged into the parent during the year.  The proceeds were used to pay $2.0 million in principal payments on long-term borrowings, fund $1.4 million of dividends paid on the Series A Preferred Stock, and make additional fixed asset purchases, primarily in information technology equipment related to the conversion to FIS.  During 2010, the parent company generated $4.8 million of cash from operations and borrowed an additional $11.3 million.  The proceeds were used to pay off existing debt and make additional capital investments in Premier’s subsidiaries to strengthen the subsidiaries’ balance sheets and capital ratios.  Operating cash was also used to pay $2.9 million in dividends to shareholders.  Additional information on parent company cash flows and financial statements is contained in Note 21 to the consolidated financial statements.

Capital Resources
 
Premier’s consolidated average equity-to-asset ratio increased to 12.94% during 2012, an increase from the 11.98% during 2011 and the 11.84% average equity-to-asset ratio in 2010.  The ratios for all three years are considered adequate for a company of Premier’s size.  The increase in 2012 was the result of a higher percentage increase in average equity, primarily from the generation of $7.6 million of retained net income, combined with a decrease in average assets during 2012.  The increase in average common equity exceeded the decrease in average preferred equity resulting from the partial redemption of Premier’s Series A Preferred Stock that occurred

 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


during the third quarter of 2012.  The increase in 2011 over 2010 was the result of a higher percentage increase in average equity, primarily from the generation of $6.0 million of retained net income, exceeding the percentage growth in average assets.  Also increasing average equity in 2011 was an increase in the market value of investments from a $1.4 million net unrealized loss at the end of 2010 to a $5.0 million net unrealized gain at the end of 2011.
 
The Federal Reserve's risk-based capital guidelines and leverage ratio measure the capital adequacy of banking institutions. The risk-based capital guidelines weight balance sheet assets and off-balance sheet commitments by prescribed factors relative to credit risk, thus eliminating disincentives for holding low risk assets and requiring more capital for holding higher risk assets.  At year-end 2012, Premier’s capital to risk adjusted asset ratio was 17.4%, compared to 17.2% at December 31, 2011 and 15.3% at December 31, 2010.  All three of these ratios are well above the minimum level of 8.0% prescribed for bank holding companies of Premier’s size.  The leverage ratio is a measure of total tangible equity to total tangible assets, net of any related deferred taxes as permitted.  Premier’s leverage ratio at December 31, 2012 was 10.0% equal to the 10.0% at December 31, 2011 and higher than the 8.5% at December 31, 2010.  All three of these ratios are above the 4.0% to 5.0% ratios recommended by the Federal Reserve.  The leverage ratio remained unchanged at December 31, 2012, due to the very small change in total assets and total stockholders’ equity since year-end 2011.  While preferred stockholders’ equity decreased in 2012 due to the redemption of 10,252 shares of Premier’s Series A Preferred Stock, this equity was replaced by Premier’s earnings performance in 2012, net of any dividends paid to common and preferred stockholders.  Similarly, Premier’s capital to risk adjusted assets ratio changed little in 2012, increasing to 17.4% at December 31, 2012 from 17.2% at December 31, 2011, as total stockholders’ equity changed very little from year-end 2011.  The increase in the ratio was largely due to a decrease in Premier’s risk adjusted assets at December 31, 2012.  The increase in the leverage ratio during 2011 was a combined result of a decrease in total assets, an increase in total stockholders’ equity and a decrease in the amounts of goodwill and other intangibles that are subtracted from stockholders’ equity by regulation.  Similarly, the increase in the capital to risk adjusted assets ratio in 2011 is the combined result of a decrease in risk adjusted assets, as Premier increased its holdings of less riskier liquid assets and kept more of those liquid assets in interest-bearing deposit accounts with the Federal Reserve which are given a zero percent risk factor, along with the increase in total capital.  Premier's capital ratios are the direct result of management's desire to maintain a strong capital position.  This strong capital position tends to have a dampening effect on the key performance ratio Return on Average Equity (ROE) due to the higher level of capital maintained.  Additional information on Premier's capital ratios and the capital ratios of its banks may be found in Note 20 to the consolidated financial statements.

 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


Additional information on the capital position of Premier is included in the following table.

SELECTED CAPITAL INFORMATION
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
   
As of December 31
 
   
2012
   
2011
   
Change
 
                   
Stockholders’ Equity
  $ 144,296     $ 144,007     $ 289  
Disallowed amounts of goodwill and other intangibles
    (27,995 )     (29,427 )     1,432  
Unrealized (gain) loss on securities available for sale
    (6,576 )     (5,013 )     (1,563 )
Tier I capital
  $ 109,725     $ 109,567     $ 158  
                         
Tier II capital adjustments
                       
Allowable amount of the allowance for loan losses
    8,537       8,580          
Total capital
  $ 118,262     $ 118,147          
                         
Total risk-weighted assets
  $ 679,986     $ 685,218          
                         
Ratios
                       
Tier I capital to risk-weighted assets
    16.14 %     15.99 %        
Total capital to risk-weighted assets
    17.39 %     17.24 %        
Leverage
    10.04 %     10.01 %        
 
The primary source of funds for dividends paid by Premier is the dividends received from its subsidiary banks. Banking regulations limit the amount of dividends that may be paid without prior approval of the regulatory agencies. Under these regulations, the amount of dividends that may be paid without prior approval in any calendar year is limited to the current year's net profits, as defined, combined with the retained net profits of the preceding two years, subject to regulatory capital requirements and additional restrictions more fully described in Note 20 to the consolidated financial statements.  During 2013, the Affiliate Banks could, without prior approval, declare and pay to Premier dividends of approximately $2.1 million plus any 2013 net profits retained through the date of declaration.
 
The dividend rights of holders of Premier’s common shares are also qualified and subject to the dividend rights of holders of Premier’s Series A Preferred Shares.  As long as the Series A Preferred Shares remain outstanding, unless all accrued and unpaid dividends for all past dividend periods on the Series A Preferred Shares are fully paid, Premier will not be permitted to declare or pay dividends on any Common Shares.
 
The July 29, 2010 written agreement between Consolidated Bank & Trust and the FRB placed limits on Premier’s ability to pay dividends.  In addition to ensuring that CB&T complied with provisions of the July 29, 2010 written agreement, Premier was also specifically subject to a provision requiring prior written approval of the FRB and the Director of the Division of Banking Supervision and Regulation of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System for declaring or paying any dividends, and a provision requiring prior written approval of the FRB before incurring, increasing or guaranteeing any debt or purchasing or redeeming any shares of its stock.

 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012

 
On August 3, 2010, Premier submitted a request to the FRB for written approval from the FRB and the Director of the Division of Banking Supervision and Regulation of the Board of Governors to pay a $0.11 per share cash dividend to Premier’s common shareholders on September 30, 2010.  On August 19, 2010, Premier was notified in writing that the FRB and the Director of the Division of Banking Supervision and Regulation of the Board of Governors did not approve Premier’s request to pay the cash dividend on its common stock as Premier had requested.
 
On September 20, 2010, Premier submitted a request to the FRB for written approval from the FRB and the Director of the Division of Banking Supervision and Regulation of the Board of Governors to declare and pay its quarterly dividend obligation to the U.S. Treasury due on November 15, 2010.  On October 4, 2010, Premier received a notice in writing that the FRB and the Director of the Division of Banking Supervision and Regulation of the Board of Governors did not approve Premier’s request to pay the cash dividend on its Series A, Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock as Premier had requested.  Subsequent to receipt of the notice from the FRB, Premier held telephone conversations with the FRB to appeal the Board of Governors’ decision.  On October 13, 2010, Premier received telephonic notice that its appeal had been denied.
 
On January 11, 2011, Premier submitted a written request to the FRB for written approval from the FRB and the Director of the Division of Banking Supervision and Regulation of the Board of Governors to pay its quarterly dividend obligation due on February 15, 2011 to the U.S. Treasury under the TARP Capital Purchase Program, and the prior quarterly dividend obligation due on November 15, 2010.   On February 10, 2011, Premier received telephonic notice that the FRB and the Director of the Division of Banking Supervision and Regulation of the Board of Governors did not approve Premier’s request to pay the cash dividends on its Series A, Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock as Premier had requested.
 
On April 19, 2011, Premier submitted a request to the FRB for written approval from the FRB and the Director of the Division of Banking Supervision and Regulation of the Board of Governors to declare and pay its quarterly dividend obligation to the U.S. Treasury due on May 15, 2011 and the two dividends in arrears due on November 15, 2010 and February 15, 2011, respectively.  On May 13, 2011, Premier received notice from the FRB that the Director of the Division of Banking Supervision and Regulation of the Board of Governors approved Premier’s request to pay all current and deferred cash dividends on its Series A, Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock as Premier had requested.  The dividends were paid as scheduled on May 16, 2011.  All subsequent quarterly dividends on Premier’s Series A Preferred Shares have been paid as scheduled.

On July 24, 2012 the FRB announced that it had terminated the July 29, 2010 Written Agreement with Premier.

 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


INCOME STATEMENT ANALYSIS
Net Interest Income
 
Net interest income, the amount by which interest generated from earning assets exceeds the expense associated with funding those assets, is Premier’s most significant component of earnings.  Net interest income on a fully tax-equivalent basis was $44.2 million in 2012, down 0.6% from the $44.5 million earned in 2011, which follows a 1.1% increase in 2011 from 2010.  When net interest income is presented on a fully tax-equivalent basis, interest income from tax-exempt earning assets is increased by the amount equivalent to the federal income taxes which would have been paid if this income were taxable at the statutory federal tax rate of 34% for companies of Premier's size.  The decrease in net interest income in 2012 is largely the result of the combined decrease in interest income on loans and investments exceeding the combined decrease in interest expense on deposits and borrowings.
 
As shown in the Rate Volume Analysis table below, in 2012, interest income on loans decreased primarily as a result of a decrease in the average volume of loans outstanding in 2012.  This decrease was offset slightly by an increase in interest income on loans due to a higher overall yield on the loan portfolio.  The net result was a $1.3 million decrease in interest income on loans when compared to 2011.  In contrast, interest income on investments decreased primarily as a result of a decrease in the average yield earned on the portfolio of securities.  This decrease was partially offset by an increase in interest income on investments due to a higher average volume of investments outstanding in 2012.  The net result was an $890,000 decrease in interest income on investments when compared to 2011.  Also, as shown in the table below, interest expense on deposits decreased in total by $1.6 million, largely due to interest expense savings on certificates of deposit.  Interest expense decreased by $456,000 as a result of a lower average volume of certificates of deposit in 2012.  Interest expense also decreased by $956,000 due to a lower overall rate paid on those deposits in 2012.  Interest expense on NOW and money market accounts as well as savings accounts decreased by $163,000 in total as interest savings from lower rates paid on those transaction based deposits more than offset an increase in interest expense resulting from a higher volume of both NOW and money market deposits as well as savings account deposits.  Premier also realized $68,000 of interest expense savings on its short-term borrowings, largely due to lower rates paid on these borrowings but also due to a lower average balance during 2012.  Premier realized $98,000 of interest expense savings on other borrowed funds, largely due to principal reductions during the year, and $149,000 of interest expense savings on FHLB borrowings due to repaying the borrowings upon maturity in the first half of 2012.  The combined effect was to decrease net interest income by $276,000 in 2012.
 
The increase in net interest income in 2011 is largely the result of savings on interest paid on certificates of deposit exceeding a decrease in interest income on loans.  As shown in the Rate Volume Analysis table below, in 2011, increases in interest income from the increase in the volume of earning assets such as loans and investment securities was more than offset by decreases in interest income resulting from lower yields earned on those assets.  The net result

 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


was an $889,000 decrease in interest income on loans and an $80,000 decrease in interest income on investment securities.  Also, as shown in the table below, interest expense on deposits in 2011 increased by only $9,000 as a result of changes in the volume in interest-bearing deposits, as the increase in interest expense from the increase in the average volume of certificates of deposit and savings deposits was substantially offset by the decrease in interest expense from the decrease in the average volume of NOW and money market deposit accounts.  However, due to lower rates paid on certificates of deposit in 2011, Premier saved $1.5 million of interest expense, more than offsetting the increase in interest expense due to the higher volume of average interest-bearing liabilities and the decrease in interest income from loans and investment securities described above.  Combined with the interest savings from lower rates on savings deposits, Premier reduced interest expense on deposit accounts by $1.5 million in 2011.  Premier also realized $12,000 of interest expense savings on its short-term borrowings, largely due to lower rates paid, and $116,000 of interest expense savings on its FHLB borrowings due to the maturities of its highest rate borrowings in 2010.  Partially offsetting these savings in 2011 was a $154,000 increase in interest expense paid on other borrowed funds at the parent company due to the increase in the volume of borrowed funds from the September 2010 borrowing from Bankers’ Bank and that borrowing’s overall higher interest cost.  The combined effect was to increase net interest income by $478,000 in 2011.

RATE VOLUME ANALYSIS OF CHANGES IN NET INTEREST INCOME
 
(Dollars in thousands on a tax equivalent basis)
 
   
2012 vs 2011
   
2011 vs 2010
 
   
Increase (decrease) due to change in
   
Increase (decrease) due to change in
 
   
Volume
   
Rate
   
Net Change
   
Volume
   
Rate
   
Net Change
 
Interest income*:
                                   
Loans
  $ (1,368 )   $ 109     $ (1,259 )   $ 153     $ (1,042 )   $ (889 )
Investment securities
    349       (1,239 )     (890 )     1,179       (1,259 )     (80 )
Federal funds sold
    (2 )     2       -       (4 )     -       (4 )
Deposits with banks
    (30 )     13       (17 )     (8 )4     7       (1 )
Total interest income
  $ (1,051 )   $ (1,115 )   $ (2,166 )   $ 1,320     $ (2,294 )   $ (974 )
                                                 
Interest expense:
                                               
Deposits
                                               
NOW and money market
  $ 50     $ (116 )   $ (66 )   $ (43 )   $ (9 )   $ (52 )
Savings
    12       (109 )     (97 )     34       (22 )     12  
Certificates of deposit
    (456 )     (956 )     (1,412 )     18       (1,456 )     (1,438 )
Short-term borrowings
    (21 )     (47 )     (68 )     4       (16 )     (12 )
Other borrowings
    (94 )     (4 )     (98 )     95       59       154  
FHLB borrowings
    (179 )     30       (149 )     (43 )     (73 )     (116 )
Total interest expense
  $ (688 )   $ (1,202 )   $ (1,890 )   $ 65     $ (1,517 )   $ (1,452 )
Net interest income*
  $ (363 )   $ 87     $ (276 )   $ 1,255     $ (777 )   $ 478  
                                                 
(*) Fully taxable equivalent using the rate of 34%
 Note – Changes to rate/volume are allocated to both rate and volume on a proportional dollar basis
 



 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012

 
While net interest income dollars decreased in 2012, Premier’s net interest margin increased as the rates paid on interest bearing liabilities decreased more than the decrease in the yield on earning assets.  In 2012, the yield on Premier’s loan portfolio increased slightly to 6.33% from the 6.32% earned in 2011.  However, the yield earned on the investment portfolio in 2012 decreased by 41 basis points to 2.42%.  The net result on all earning assets was to decrease the yield by 10 basis points to 4.86% in 2012, down from the 4.96% earned in 2011.  Similarly, in 2012 Premier decreased the average rate paid on its deposits by 20 basis points as market deposit rates continued to fall throughout the year.  The average rate paid on certificates of deposit decreased the most, at 24 basis points, while savings accounts decreased by 9 basis points and the average rate on interest bearing transaction accounts decreased by 5 basis points.  Just as deposit rates fell during 2012, the rates Premier paid on its short-term borrowings also fell.  Premier was able to lower the rates paid on its short-term borrowings, primarily customer based repurchase agreements, by 21 basis points to 0.43%.  The rate paid on FHLB borrowings at the banks increased by 34 basis points as lower rate borrowings matured in 2011 leaving slightly higher rate borrowings to mature in 2012.  The rate paid on Premier’s other borrowings remained relatively unchanged as there was no change in rate on Premier’s floating rate borrowing from the Bankers’ Bank and its borrowing from First Guaranty Bank bears a fixed rate.  The net result on all interest-bearing liabilities was to decrease the rate paid by 21 basis points to 0.82% in 2012, down from the 1.03% paid in 2011.  As a result, Premier’s net interest spread increased by 11 basis points.  However, due to the larger volume of Premier’s interest earning assets when compared to its volume of interest bearing liabilities, the net interest margin increased by only 7 basis points to 4.25% in 2012, up from 4.18% in 2011 and matching the 4.25% earned in 2010.
 
While net interest income dollars increased in 2011, Premier’s net interest margin decreased as the yield on earning assets decreased more than the decrease in rates paid on interest bearing liabilities.  In 2011, the yield on Premier’s loan portfolio decreased by 15 basis points to 6.32% and the yield earned on the investment portfolio decreased by 47 basis points to 2.83%.  The net result on all earning assets was to decrease the yield by 24 basis points to 4.96% in 2011, down from the 5.20% earned in 2010.  Similarly, in 2011 Premier decreased the average rate paid on its deposits by 20 basis points as market deposit rates continued to fall throughout the year.  The average rate paid on certificates of deposit decreased the most, at 36 basis points, while savings accounts decreased by just 2 basis points and the average rate on interest bearing transaction accounts remained unchanged.  Just as deposits rates fell during 2011, the rates Premier paid on its short-term and FHLB borrowings also fell.  Premier was able to lower the rates paid on its short-term borrowings, primarily customer based repurchase agreements, by 6 basis points to 0.64%.  The rate paid on FHLB borrowings at the banks decreased by 66 basis points due to the maturity of $4.0 million of FHLB borrowings with an average rate of 6.45% in May 2010.  Only the rate paid on other borrowings increased in 2011, up 33 basis points to 4.45%.  The increase is the direct result of the $11.3 million borrowed from the Bankers’ Bank on September 8, 2010.  The new borrowing has a minimum interest rate of 4.50%.  The proceeds were used to refinance $5.3 million of existing debt with the Bankers’ Bank that carried a lower rate and inject $6.0 million of capital into Premier’s subsidiary bank, Citizens Deposit Bank, to facilitate the bank’s purchase of four branches from Integra Bank.  The net result on all interest-

 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


bearing liabilities was to decrease the rate paid by 18 basis points to 1.03% in 2011, down from the 1.21% paid in 2010.  As a result, Premier’s net interest spread decreased by 6 basis points.  However, due to the larger volume of Premier’s interest earning assets when compared to its volume of interest bearing liabilities, the net interest margin decreased by 7 basis points to 4.18% in 2011, down from 4.25% earned in 2010.  Further discussion of interest income is included in the section of this report entitled "Balance Sheet Analysis."

Non-interest Income and Expense
 
Non-interest income has been and will continue to be an important factor for improving profitability. Recognizing this importance, management continues to evaluate areas where non-interest income can be enhanced.  Nevertheless, key sources of Premier’s non-interest income have diminished, in part, due to increased government regulation making the selling of fixed rate mortgages in the secondary market more difficult and limiting the number of overdraft charges that can be assessed on a customer’s account on a given day.  As shown in the table of Non-interest Income and Expense below, total fees and other income decreased by $372,000, or 5.4%, in 2012.  In 2012, service charges on deposit accounts decreased by $282,000, or 7.4%, due to lower revenue from monthly account charges on consumer checking accounts as well as lower overall revenue from consumer overdraft charges.  In 2012, service charge revenue from monthly account charges on business accounts and business overdraft charges both increased.  Secondary market mortgage income (commissions and fees earned from originating and selling mortgage loans to third parties in the secondary market) decreased by $3,000, or 1.0%, in 2012 compared to 2011.  The secondary market mortgage income in 2012, 2011 and 2010 reflects an industry in extreme change.  Many mortgage loan purchasers ceased buying new mortgages in 2009 or went out of business completely.  The federal government, via government sponsored agencies, began buying the surplus in available secondary market mortgages but significantly increased the required documentation from the home buyers, thus complicating the process in comparison to years past.  The perceived difficultly from the home buyer’s perspective has had a negative impact on Premier’s secondary market business during 2010, 2011 and 2012.  Offsetting these decreases in non-interest income, electronic banking income, which consists of debit and credit card transaction fees, ATM fees and internet banking fees, increased $174,000, or 9.4% to $2,017,000 in 2012.  The increase is largely due to an increasing number of customers who conduct their banking and purchasing electronically, primarily via the use of debit and ATM cards.  Other non-interest income decreased by $261,000, or 28.7%, in 2012, largely due to decreases in banking service fees, such as wire transfer fees and check cashing fees, credit life commissions, letter of credit fees earned and other miscellaneous loan fees unrelated to loan originations all of which increased in 2011.
 
In 2011, total fees and other income increased by $132,000, or 2.0%.  The increase in 2011 was largely due to increases in electronic banking income and other non-interest income partially offset by decreases in service charges on deposit accounts and secondary market mortgage income.  In 2011, service charges on deposit accounts decreased by $229,000, or 5.7%, due to lower revenue from monthly account charges on consumer and business checking accounts as well as a lower propensity of customers to overdraft their deposit accounts.

 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


Management believes that the downturn in the economy caused customers to more closely manage their deposit funds to find ways to save money and thus reduced their number of overdrafts.  Secondary market mortgage income decreased by $131,000, or 29.4%, in 2011 compared to 2010.  As discussed above, as many mortgage loan purchasers ceased buying new mortgages in 2009 or went out of business completely, the federal government, via government sponsored agencies, began buying the surplus in available secondary market mortgages but significantly increased the required documentation from the home buyers, thus complicating the process in comparison to years past.  The perceived difficultly from the home buyer’s perspective had a negative impact on Premier’s secondary market business during 2011.  Offsetting these decreases in non-interest income, electronic banking income, which consists of debit and credit card transaction fees, ATM fees and internet banking fees, increased $318,000, or 20.9% to $1,843,000 in 2011.  The increase is largely due to an increasing number of customers who conduct their banking and purchasing electronically, primarily via the use of debit and ATM cards.  Other non-interest income increased by $174,000, or 23.6%, in 2011, largely due to increases in banking service fees, such as wire transfer fees and check cashing fees, credit life commissions, letter of credit fees earned and other miscellaneous loan fees unrelated to loan originations.
 
In 2012, Premier realized $545,000 in gains on the calls of investment securities compared to $18,000 in gains on the calls of investment securities realized in 2011.  In 2012, two high-yielding, long-term corporate securities that had significant negative market value adjustments at the time Premier acquired them via the purchase of Abigail Adams were called at par value during 2012, resulting in the $545,000 investment security gains.  Premier did not execute any sales of investment securities in the past three years.  Also in 2012, Premier realized a $2,463,000 gain on the sale of a non-accrual loan to a third-party.  The gain resulted primarily from purchase discounts applied to the loan at the time it was acquired via the purchase of Abigail Adams.  Transactions such as these are unusual and infrequent.  As such, management excludes this kind of revenue from its discussion of net overhead elsewhere in this report.

 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


The following table is a summary of non-interest income and expense for each of the years in the three-year period ending December 31, 2012.

NON-INTEREST INCOME AND EXPENSE
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
                     
Increase (Decrease) Over Prior Year
 
                     
2012
   
2011
 
   
2012
   
2011
   
2010
   
Amount
   
Percent
   
Amount
   
Percent
 
Non-interest income:
                                         
Service charges on deposit accounts
  $ 3,543     $ 3,825     $ 4,054     $ (282 )     (7.37 )   $ (229 )     (5.65 )
Electronic banking income
    2,017       1,843       1,525       174       9.44       318       20.85  
Secondary market mortgage income
    311       314       445       (3 )     (0.96 )     (131 )     (29.44 )
Other
    650       911       737       (261 )     (28.65 )     174       23.61  
Total fees and other income
  $ 6,521     $ 6,893     $ 6,761       (372 )     (5.40 )     132       1.95  
Gain on sale of note
    2,463       0       0       2,463               0          
Investment securities gains
    545       18       0       527               18          
Total non-interest income
  $ 9,529     $ 6,911     $ 6,761     $ 2,618       37.88     $ 150       2.22  
                                                         
Non-interest expense:
                                                       
Salaries and wages
  $ 12,394     $ 13,385     $ 13,151     $ (991 )     (7.40 )   $ 234       1.78  
Employee benefits
    2,728       2,852       2,820       (124 )     (4.35 )     32       1.13  
Total staff costs
    15,122       16,237       15,971       (1,115 )     (6.87 )     266       1.67  
Occupancy and equipment
    4,553       4,900       4,907       (347 )     (7.08 )     (7 )     0.14  
Outside data processing
    3,379       4,458       4,190       (1,079 )     (24.20 )     268       6.40  
Professional fees
    1,181       966       939       215       22.26       27       2.88  
Taxes, other than payroll,
property and income
    667       663       873       4       0.60       (210 )     (24.05 )
Amortization of intangibles
    672       792       618       (120 )     (15.15 )     174       28.16  
OREO gains, losses and expenses, net
    2,514       405       157       2,109       520.74       248       157.96  
Loan collection expenses
    1,182       1,172       499       10       0.85       673       134.87  
FDIC insurance
    809       1,223       1,894       (414 )     (33.85 )     (671 )     (35.43 )
Conversion expense
    25       1,720       143       (1,695 )             1,577          
Other expenses
    3,168       3,985       4,028       (817 )     (20.50 )     (43 )     (1.07 )
Total non-interest expenses
  $ 33,272     $ 36,521     $ 34,219     $ (3,249 )     (8.90 )   $ 2,302       6.73  
                                                         



 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012

 
Just as management continues to evaluate areas where non-interest income can be enhanced, it strives to find ways to improve the efficiency of its operations and utilize the economies of scale of the consolidated entity to reduce its operating costs.  Sometimes the expenses associated with acquisitions, as well as the inefficiency of the operations of acquired organizations, cloud these goals.  Premier’s 2012 net overhead ratio, or non-interest expense less non-interest income excluding securities transactions and other similar non-operating transactions to average earning assets, was 2.56%, a decrease from the 2.78% realized in 2011 and the 2.65% realized in 2010.  The actual dollars of net overhead decreased by $2.9 million, or 9.7%, in 2012, while average earning assets decreased by only 2.2% resulting in the decrease in the net overhead ratio.  The decrease in net overhead expense in 2012 was largely due to $1.7 million of conversion expenses incurred in 2011 that were not repeated in 2012, along with reductions in data processing expense and staff costs.  These expense reductions were partially offset by an increase in OREO expenses.  In 2011, the actual dollars of net overhead increased by $2.2 million or 7.9%, however average earning assets only increased by 2.9% resulting in the increase in the net overhead ratio.  Most of the $2.2 million increase in net overhead expense relates to the $1.7 million of conversion expenses incurred in 2011.  For the year 2012, net overhead was $26.8 million compared to $29.6 million in 2011 and $27.5 million in 2010.
 
Total non-interest expense in 2012 decreased by $3,249,000, or 8.9%, from 2011 largely due to reductions in staff costs, outside data processing expenses and conversion costs in 2011 that were not repeated in 2012.  In 2011, non-interest expense increased by $2,302,000, or 6.7% from 2010 largely due to costs related to the conversion of Premier’s operating systems to FIS, including $1,720,000 of direct conversion expense.
 
Staff costs decreased by $1,115,000, or 6.9%, in 2012 versus 2011.  Salaries and wages decreased by $991,000, or 7.4%, in 2012 as reductions in staff related to the internal merger of five banks forming Premier Bank took full effect in 2012, as well as the partial impact of additional staff reductions from the internal merger of Farmers Deposit and Ohio River banks into Citizens Deposit Bank in August 2012.  Approximately $414,000 of the decrease in salary and wages expense in 2012 was due to a higher level of loan origination costs that were deferred to the balance sheet to be amortized into income in future periods.  The increased level of deferred loan origination costs were the result of higher loan demand in 2012, particularly in the second half of the year.  The costs of employee benefits decreased by $124,000, or 4.4%, in 2012 as the decrease in staff count reduced the number of participants in employee benefit plans and reduced the level of employer payroll taxes paid by Premier.  In 2011, staff costs increased by $266,000, or 1.7%, versus 2010.  Salaries and wages increased by $234,000 or 1.8%, in 2011 as normal salary and wage increases were partially offset by staff reductions.  Approximately $109,000 of the increase in salary and wage expense in 2011 was due to a lower level of loan origination costs that were deferred to the balance sheet to be amortized into loan income in future periods.  The reduced level of deferred loan origination costs were the result of lower loan demand in 2011.  The costs of employee benefits increased by $32,000, or 1.1%, in 2011 as increases in employee benefit plan expenses were partially offset by lower payroll taxes and lower 401(k) matching expense related to lower staff levels.


 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012

 
Occupancy and equipment expenses in total decreased by $347,000, or 7.1%, compared to 2011.  Facility costs were $107,000 lower in 2012, largely due to lower rent expense in 2012 from the closure of one branch in the DC Metro area and the combining of two floors of the DC administrative office into one, as well as reduced utility costs and lower property maintenance costs.  Equipment expense decreased $240,000 in 2012 compared to 2011, largely due to lower equipment depreciation expense, lower equipment maintenance costs and lower expenditures on software subscriptions.  In 2011, occupancy and equipment expenses in total were relatively unchanged compared to 2010, decreasing by 0.1%.  Facility costs were $117,000 lower in 2011, largely due to a $173,000 gain on the sale of a branch building versus $62,000 of writedowns of branch buildings no longer in operation in 2010.  In 2011, Premier sold a remote drive through facility and used the proceeds to purchase land adjacent to an existing location and construct an add-on drive through facility that shared a common teller area.  Offsetting some of the benefit of gain on the branch building sale were increased real estate taxes and higher utility costs partially offset by lower other occupancy expenses.  Equipment expense increased by $162,000 in 2011 compared to 2010, largely due to higher technology equipment expenses driven by the conversion to FIS.
 
Outside data processing expense decreased by $1,079,000, or 24.2%, in 2012 versus 2011, largely due to lower item processing, data processing, and internet banking charges as well as lower data line charges, all related to the new third party processing contract with FIS.  The savings realized were partially offset by an increase in statement rendering charges and telephone banking charges.  In 2011, outside data processing expense increased by $268,000, or 6.4%, versus 2010, largely due to higher item processing, data processing, and internet banking charges related to the short-term extension of the FiServ contract.  Data line charges also increased in 2011 due to expansion and improvement of the data lines capacity in conjunction with the conversion to FIS.
 
Professional fees increased by $215,000, or 22.3%, in 2012 versus 2011, largely due to higher legal fees related to lawsuits that were settled in 2012 and an increase in fees from consultant services.  In 2011, professional fees increased by $27,000, or 2.9%, versus 2010, largely due to higher audit charges and tax return preparation fees which more than offset a reduction in corporate legal fees.
 
Taxes not on income were relatively unchanged in 2012 versus 2011, increasing by $4,000, or 0.6%, as higher state based franchise taxes were offset by lower municipal based taxes.  In 2011, taxes not on income decreased by $210,000, or 24.1%, versus 2010, largely due to lower West Virginia Franchise Tax expense, an equity based tax that is being phased out in West Virginia by gradually reducing the tax rate.
 
Amortization of intangibles decreased by $120,000, or 15.2%, in 2012 versus 2011, as Premier utilizes an accelerated method of amortizing its core deposit intangible assets which results in greater amortization expense in the years soon after an acquisition.  In 2011, amortization of intangibles increased by $174,000, or 28.2%, versus 2010, as a $265,000 increase from a full year of new core deposit amortization resulting from the Branch Purchase, was

 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


partially offset by reduced amortization expense from the Abigail Adams, Traders and Citizens First acquisitions.  Premier uses an accelerated amortization schedule over an estimated useful life of approximately eight years.
 
OREO gains, losses and expenses resulted in net expenses of $2,514,000 in 2012 versus $405,000 of net expenses in 2011, a $2,109,000 increase in non-interest expense.  OREO expense represents the costs to operate, maintain and liquidate Other Real Estate acquired through foreclosure in satisfaction of unpaid loans.  In 2012, Premier realized $453,000 of gains on the sale of OREO, a decrease of $566,000 from the $1,019,000 of gains realized in 2011.  This $566,000 difference in gains is part of the $2,109,000 increase in non-interest expense in 2012.  More than offsetting the gains realized in 2012, however, were $1,410,000 of writedowns on OREO properties to estimated realizable values and $1,556,000 of net expenses to maintain those properties.  These values compare to $624,000 of writedowns on OREO properties in 2011 and $799,000 of net expenses incurred to maintain the properties in 2011.  In 2011, OREO gains, losses and expenses resulted in net expenses of $405,000 versus $157,000 of net expenses in 2010, a $248,000 increase in non-interest expense.  Premier realized $1,019,000 of gains on the sale of OREO, an increase of $467,000 over the $552,000 of gains realized in 2010.  More than offsetting the gains realized in 2011, however, were $624,000 of writedowns on OREO properties to estimated realizable values and $799,000 of net expenses to maintain those properties.  These values compare to $35,000 of writedowns on OREO properties in 2010 and $675,000 of net expenses incurred to maintain the properties.
 
Loan collection expenses were relatively unchanged in 2012 versus 2011, increasing by $10,000, or 0.9%.  Loan collection expense include attorney fees and other costs associated directly to the collection of a loan, foreclosure on collateral, the immediate liquidation or auction of such collateral and other expenditures directly related to the collection of a loan.  In 2011, loan collection expenses increased by $673,000, or 135%, as Premier incurred a significant level of auction related and other expense related to the liquidation or repossession of collateral in an effort to reduce the level of non-performing loans.
 
FDIC insurance expense decreased by $414,000, or 33.9%, in 2012 versus 2011.  The decrease in FDIC insurance expense was largely the result of a change in the calculation method of the premium for smaller community banks such as those owned by Premier, that took effect in 2011.  Additional savings were also realized as a result of the internal merger of five banks forming Premier Bank in 2011 as well as the internal merger of Farmers Deposit and Ohio River banks into Citizens Deposit Bank in August 2012.  In 2011, FDIC insurance expense decreased by $671,000, or 35.4%, versus 2010.  The decrease in FDIC insurance expense was largely the result of reduced FDIC insurance costs for the newly formed Premier Bank versus the historical FDIC insurance costs of the five subsidiary banks Premier merged together in April 2011 to form the bank.  The premium charged for Premier Bank was substantially less than the sum of the premiums paid by the former five banks.  Also reducing FDIC insurance expense in 2011 was a change in the calculation method of the premium for smaller community banks such as those owned by Premier.


 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012

 
In 2011, Premier incurred $1,720,000 of direct costs to convert its data processing systems to FIS.  Most of these costs were charged by the previous data processing providers to generate conversion testing data and release the final conversion data.  This expense compares to $143,000 of conversion expenses incurred in 2010 as preparations were already underway in the fourth quarter of 2010 to convert to FIS as a data processing provider.
 
Other expenses totaled $3,168,000 in 2012, an $817,000, or 20.5%, decrease from the $3,985,000 of other non-interest expenses recorded in 2011.  Decreases in 2012 relate in part to higher education and training costs and higher lodging, travel and meal costs incurred in 2011, largely due to the conversion to FIS, as employees traveled to various training centers to learn how to use the new data processing system.  Otherwise, decreases in other expenses in 2012 include lower stationery and supplies expense, regulatory assessment charges, correspondent bank charges and subsidiary director fees, most of which are the result of the internal mergers consummated in 2011 and 2012.  In 2011, other expenses totaled $3,985,000, a $43,000, or 1.1%, decrease from the $4,028,000 of other non-interest expenses recorded in 2010.  Increases in 2011, such as higher education and training costs and higher lodging, travel and meal costs were incurred largely due to the conversion to FIS, as employees traveled to various training centers to learn how to use the new data processing system.  Otherwise, other increased expenses in 2011 include supplies expense, postage and freight, and insurance expense.  These increases were partially offset by lower regulatory assessments, correspondent bank charges, and subsidiary director fees resulting from the merger of the five subsidiary banks to form Premier Bank.  Other expense reductions include lower stock transfer fees, NASDAQ listing dues and advertising expenses.
 
An analysis of the allowance for loan losses and related provision for loan losses is included in the Loan Portfolio section of the Balance Sheet Analysis of this report

 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


Applicable Income Taxes
 
Premier recognized $5.7 million of income tax expense in 2012.  This amount compares to $3.8 million of income tax expense in 2011 and $3.8 million of income tax expense recorded in 2010.  Premier’s effective tax rate was 35.5% in 2012, up from the 34.7% reported in 2011 and the 29.4% reported in 2010.  The lower effective tax rate in 2010 is largely due to the recognition of a $538,000, net of federal income tax expense, West Virginia income tax benefit resulting from Premier’s projected ability to fully realize its West Virginia state deferred tax assets.  The majority of the state deferred tax assets are made up of West Virginia net operating loss carryforwards, some of which were incurred as a result of Premier’s historical operations and some of which were obtained from the Traders Bankshares acquisition in 2008.  The projection takes into account changes in West Virginia’s corporation income tax rules regarding consolidated income tax returns and the likelihood that the projected taxable income from the Acquired Banks will accelerate the utilization of all carryforwards.  Excluding the net West Virginia income tax benefit would result in a 2010 effective tax rate of approximately 33.5%.  In 2011 and again in 2012, Premier’s effective tax rate was increased somewhat by higher state income taxes related to Premier’s operations in Washington, DC.  Also, in 2012 Premier’s level of tax exempt income declined as a percentage of income before taxes.  Additional information regarding income taxes is contained in Note 12 to the consolidated financial statements.

Effects of Changing Prices
 
The results of operations and financial condition presented in this report are based on historical cost, unadjusted for the effects of inflation. Inflation affects Premier in two ways. One effect is that inflation can result in increased operating costs which must be absorbed or recovered through increased prices for services. The second effect is on the purchasing power of the corporation. Virtually all of a bank's assets and liabilities are monetary in nature. Regardless of changes in prices, most assets and liabilities of the banking subsidiaries will be converted into a fixed number of dollars. Non-earning assets, such as premises and equipment, do not comprise a major portion of Premier's assets; therefore, most assets are subject to repricing on a more frequent basis than in other industries.
 
Premier's ability to offset the effects of inflation and potential reductions in future purchasing power depends primarily on its ability to maintain capital levels by adjusting prices for its services and to improve net interest income by maintaining an effective asset/liability mix.  Management's efforts to meet these goals are described in other sections of this report.

 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


SUMMARY RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
FOURTH QUARTER 2012
 
Net income available to common shareholders for the three months ended December 31, 2012 totaled $2,990,000, a $335,000 or 12.6% increase from the $2,350,000 of net income available to common shareholders reported for the fourth quarter of 2011.  On a per share basis, Premier’s net income available to common shareholders for the fourth quarter of 2012 was 34 cents per share compared to 30 cents per share for the same quarter last year.  The increase in net income and earnings per share in 2012 was primarily the result of gains on the disposition of assets which more than offset a decrease in net interest income and increases in operating expenses and provision expense.
 
Net interest income totaled $10,256,000 for the fourth quarter of 2012, a decrease of $617,000, or 5.7%, from the net interest income earned in the same quarter of 2011, as an $890,000 decrease in interest income on loans was partially offset by a $395,000 decrease in interest expense on deposits.  Total interest income earned in the fourth quarter of 2012 decreased by $1.1 million, or 8.6%, when compared to the fourth quarter of 2011, largely due to an $890,000, or 8.2%, decrease in interest income on loans and a $206,000, or 11.1%, decrease in investment income. Partially offsetting the decrease in total interest income was a $482,000, or 25.2%, decrease in total interest expense in the fourth quarter of 2012 when compared to the fourth quarter of 2011, largely due to the $395,000, or 24.3%, decrease in interest expense on deposits.  Otherwise, a $48,000 decrease in interest expense on FHLB advances at the subsidiary banks was complemented by a $23,000, or 11.3%, decrease in interest expense on other borrowings at the parent company and a $16,000 decrease in interest expense on repurchase agreements and other short-term borrowings.  During the fourth quarter of 2012, Premier recorded $1,300,000 of provision for loan losses compared to $480,000 of provision for loan losses during the same quarter of 2011.  The increase in provision expense in the fourth quarter of 2012 was largely to provide for an increase in specific reserve allocations on loans identified as impaired under Premier’s internal analyses of evaluating credit risk.
 
Non-interest income totaled $1,709,000 in the fourth quarter of 2012, an increase of $9,000 from the $1,700,000 of non-interest income reported for the fourth quarter of 2011.  The increase was largely due to a $32,000, or 6.8%, increase in electronic banking income and a $43,000, or 65.2%, increase in secondary market mortgage income which were nearly offset by a $14,000, or 1.5%, decrease in service charges on deposit accounts and a $52,000, or 23.0%, decrease in other non-interest income.  Not included in non-interest income, but certainly improving the net income for the quarter, Premier also realized a $273,000 gain on the early call of an investment security during 2012 and recognized a $2.463 million gain on the sale of a loan on non-accrual status.
 
Non-interest expense totaled $8,708,000 in the fourth quarter of 2012, a $747,000, or 9.4% increase from the $7,961,000 reported for the fourth quarter of 2011.  The $747,000 increase in non-interest expenses was largely due to a $1,953,000 increase in OREO expenses (including a $1,770,000 increase in OREO writedowns, net of realized gains which were higher in 2011), 

 
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PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012


a $36,000, or 15.3%, increase in professional fees and a $45,000 increase in taxes not on income.  These expense increases were partially offset by a $439,000, or 10.9%, decrease in staff costs, a $333,000, or 29.8%, decrease in outside data processing costs, a $191,000, or 57.7%, decrease in collection costs, an $86,000, or 7.2%, decrease in occupancy and equipment costs and a $164,000, or 22.5%, decrease in other operating expenses.

Additional quarterly financial data is provided in Note 22 to the consolidated financial statements.


ADOPTION OF NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
 
In May 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued ASU No. 2011-04, "Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820) - Amendments to Achieve Common Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure Requirements in U.S. GAAP and IFRSs." This ASU represents the converged guidance of the FASB and the IASB (the "Boards") on fair value measurement. The collective efforts of the Boards and their staffs, reflected in ASU 2011-04, have resulted in common requirements for measuring fair value and for disclosing information about fair value measurements, including a consistent meaning of the term "fair value." The Boards have concluded the common requirements will result in greater comparability of fair value measurements presented and disclosed in financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP and IFRSs. Included in the ASU are requirements to disclose additional quantitative disclosures about unobservable inputs for all Level 3 fair value measurements, as well as qualitative disclosures about the sensitivity inherent in recurring Level 3 fair value measurements. The ASU is effective during interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact upon the Company’s financial statements.
 
In June 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-05, "Comprehensive Income (Topic 220) - Presentation of Comprehensive Income." The ASU requires entities to present items of net income and other comprehensive income either in one continuous statement - referred to as the statement of comprehensive income - or in two separate, but consecutive, statements of net income and other comprehensive income. The ASU is effective for the first interim period and annual period beginning after December 15, 2011. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact upon the Company’s financial statements.



 
91


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
December 31, 2012

 
In September 2011, the FASB amended existing guidance relating to goodwill impairment testing.  The amendment permits an assessment of qualitative factors to determine whether the existence of events or circumstances leads to a determination that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount.  If, after assessing these events or circumstances, it is concluded that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, then performing the two-step impairment test is unnecessary.  The amendments in this guidance are effective for annual and interim goodwill impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2011.  The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact upon the Company’s financial statements.
 
In July 2012, the FASB amended existing guidance relating to testing indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment.  The amendment permits an assessment of qualitative factors to determine whether the existence of events and circumstances indicates that it is more likely than not that the indefinite-lived intangible asset is impaired.  If, after assessing the totality of events and circumstances, it is concluded that it is not more likely than not that the indefinite-lived intangible asset is impaired, then no further action is required.  However, after the same assessment, if it is concluded that it is more like than not that the indefinite-lived intangible asset is impaired, then a quantitative impairment test should be performed whereby the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset is compared to the carrying amount.  The amendments in this guidance are effective for annual and interim impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after September 15, 2012.  Early adoption is permitted.  The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material impact upon the Company’s financial statements.



 
92


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


Item 8.  Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
 
The Company's Financial Statements and related Independent Auditors' Report are presented in the following pages. The financial statements filed in this Item 8 are as follows:

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Financial Statements:
 
 
 
 
 
 





 
93


















PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.


CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010




 
94


Crowe Horwath Logo





REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM


Board of Directors and Stockholders
Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc.
Huntington, West Virginia


We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc. as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in stockholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2012.  These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement.  The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting.  Our audit included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting.  Accordingly, we express no such opinion.  An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc. as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2012, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

 
 
 
  /s/ Crowe Horwath LLP
                          Crowe Horwath LLP


Brentwood, Tennessee
March 28, 2013


 
 
95


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
December 31, 2012 and 2011
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


   
2012
   
2011
 
ASSETS
           
  $ 32,473     $ 29,380  
Interest bearing bank balances
    33,536       42,676  
Federal funds sold
    4,236       10,832  
    70,245       82,888  
    283,975       278,479  
Loans held for sale
    200       70  
    704,625       690,923  
    (11,488 )     (9,795 )
Net loans
    693,137       681,128  
Federal Home Loan Bank stock, at cost
    4,181       5,216  
    15,952       16,355  
Other real estate owned
    13,366       14,642  
Interest receivable
    3,403       3,497  
    29,875       29,875  
    2,721       3,393  
Prepaid FDIC insurance premiums
    425       1,167  
    2,624       3,997  
Other assets
    683       3,380  
Total assets
  $ 1,120,787     $ 1,124,087  
                 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
               
               
Non-interest bearing
  $ 198,084     $ 196,125  
Time deposits, $100,000 and over
    146,198       155,208  
Other interest bearing
    586,301       573,745  
Total deposits
    930,583       925,078  
    26,102       23,205  
    -       10,083  
    16,049       18,130  
Interest payable
    489       712  
Other liabilities
    3,268       2,872  
Total liabilities
    976,491       980,080  
Commitments and contingent liabilities
    -       -  
                 
               
    11,896       21,949  
Common stock, no par value; 20,000,000 shares authorized;
7,962,693 shares issued and outstanding in 2012, and
7,937,143 shares issued and outstanding in 2011
    72,849       71,571  
Retained earnings
    52,975       45,474  
Accumulated other comprehensive income
    6,576       5,013  
Total stockholders' equity
    144,296       144,007  
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
  $ 1,120,787     $ 1,124,087  

96


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
Years Ended December 31
(In Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


   
2012
   
2011
   
2010
 
Interest income
                 
Loans, including fees
  $ 43,117     $ 44,363     $ 45,278  
Securities available for sale
                       
Taxable
    6,963       7,771       7,817  
Tax-exempt
    208       237       259  
Federal funds sold and other
    147       164       169  
Total interest income
    50,435       52,535       53,523  
                         
Interest expense
                       
Deposits
    5,553       7,127       8,605  
Repurchase agreements and other
    88       158       170  
FHLB advances and other borrowings
    795       1,042       1,004  
Total interest expense
    6,436       8,327       9,779  
                         
Net interest income
    43,999       44,208       43,744  
Provision for loan losses
    4,260       3,630       3,297  
Net interest income after provision for loan losses
    39,739       40,578       40,447  
                         
Non-interest income
                       
Service charges on deposit accounts
    3,543       3,825       4,054  
Electronic banking income
    2,017       1,843       1,525  
Secondary market mortgage income
    311       314       445  
Securities gains
    545       18       -  
Gain on sale of loan
    2,463       -       -  
Other
    650       911       737  
      9,529       6,911       6,761  
Non-interest expenses
                       
Salaries and employee benefits
    15,122       16,237       15,971  
Occupancy and equipment expenses
    4,553       4,900       4,907  
Outside data processing
    3,379       4,458       4,190  
Professional fees
    1,181       966       939  
Taxes, other than payroll, property and income
    667       663       873  
Write-downs, expenses, sales of other real estate owned, net of gains
    2,514       405       157  
Loan collection expenses
    1,182       1,172       499  
FDIC insurance
    809       1,223       1,894  
Amortization of intangibles
    672       792       618  
Conversion expenses
    25       1,720       143  
Other expenses
    3,168       3,985       4,028  
      33,272       36,521       34,219  
Income before income taxes
    15,996       10,968       12,989  
    5,673       3,800       3,817  
                         
Net income
  $ 10,323     $ 7,168     $ 9,172  
Discount on redemption of preferred stock
    905       -       -  
Preferred stock dividends and accretion
    (1,073 )     (1,221 )     (1,249 )
Net income available to common stockholders
  $ 10,155     $ 5,947     $ 7,923  
                       
Basic
  $ 1.28     $ 0.75     $ 1.00  
Diluted
    1.24       0.74       0.98  


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Years Ended December 31
(In Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


   
2012
   
2011
   
2010
 
                   
Net income
  $ 10,323     $ 7,168     $ 9,172  
                         
Other comprehensive income (loss):
                       
Unrealized gains (losses) on securities arising during the period
    2,914       9,788       (5,341 )
Reclassification of realized amount
    (545 )     (18 )     -  
Net change in unrealized gain (loss) on securities
    2,369       9,770       (5,341 )
Less tax impact
    806       3,322       (1,816 )
Other comprehensive income (loss):
    1,563       6,448       (3,525 )
                         
Comprehensive income
  $ 11,886     $ 13,616     $ 5,647  
                         



98


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010
(In Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


 
   
Preferred
Stock
   
Common
Stock
   
Retained
Earnings
   
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
   
Total
 
Balances, January 1, 2010
  $ 21,705     $ 71,412     $ 33,349     $ 2,090     $ 128,556  
Net income
    -       -       9,172       -       9,172  
Other comprehensive loss
    -       -       -       (3,525 )     (3,525 )
Cash dividends paid ($0.22 per share)
    -       -       (1,746 )     -       (1,746 )
Dividends declared on preferred stock
    -       -       (1,113 )     -       (1,113 )
Preferred stock accretion
    136       -       (136 )     -       -  
Stock based compensation expense
    -       53       -       -       53  
Balances, December 31, 2010
    21,841       71,465       39,526       (1,435 )     131,397  
 
Net income
    -       -       7,168       -       7,168  
Other comprehensive income
    -       -       -       6,448       6,448  
Dividends declared on preferred stock
    -       -       (1,112 )     -       (1,112 )
Preferred stock accretion
    108       -       (108 )     -       -  
Stock based compensation expense
    -       106       -       -       106  
Balances, December 31, 2011
    21,949       71,571       45,474       5,013       144,007  
 
Net income
    -       -       10,323       -       10,323  
Other comprehensive income
    -       -       -       1,563       1,563  
Cash dividends paid ($0.22per share)
    -       -       (1,749 )     -       (1,749 )
Redemption of preferred stock
    (10,142 )     905       -       -       (9,237 )
Dividends declared on preferred stock
    -       -       (984 )     -       (984 )
Preferred stock accretion
    89       -       (89 )     -       -  
Stock options exercised
    -       192       -       -       192  
Stock based compensation expense
    -       181       -       -       181  
Balances, December 31, 2012
  $ 11,896     $ 72,849     $ 52,975     $ 6,576     $ 144,296  
                                         


99


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Years Ended December 31
(In Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


   
2012
   
2011
   
2010
 
Cash flows from operating activities
                 
Net income
  $ 10,323     $ 7,168     $ 9,172  
Adjustments to reconcile net income  to net cash
from operating activities
                       
Depreciation and impairment of real estate, net
    1,445       1,468       1,538  
Provision for loan losses
    4,260       3,630       3,297  
Amortization (accretion), net
    (1,098 )     (1,351 )     (2,815 )
Writedowns (gains) on other real estate owned, net
    957       (394 )     (516 )
    181       106       53  
Loans originated for sale
    (14,472 )     (15,759 )     (21,836 )
Secondary market loans sold
    14,653       17,491       21,701  
Secondary market mortgage income
    (311 )     (314 )     (445 )
Gain on sale of loan
    (2,463 )     -       -  
Gain on the sale of securities available for sale
    (545 )     (18 )     -  
Changes in :
                       
Interest receivable
    94       245       727  
Deferred income taxes
    568       4,099       2,041  
Other assets
    3,439       (1,954 )     2,086  
Interest payable
    (223 )     (187 )     (237 )
Other liabilities
    396       197       (155 )
Net cash from operating activities
    17,204       14,427       14,611  
                         
Cash flows from investing activities
                       
Purchases of securities available for sale
    (73,771 )     (122,730 )     (298,137 )
Proceeds from maturities and calls of securities available for sale
    69,329       109,165       276,666  
Purchase of FHLB stock, net of redemptions
    1,035       (373 )     (91 )
Redemption of FRB stock
    -       2,253       -  
Purchase of branches, net of cash received
    -       -       8,939  
Net change in loans
    (16,103 )     26,066       29,941  
Purchases of premises and equipment, net
    (1,042 )     (1,086 )     (1,343 )
Proceeds from sale of other real estate owned
    6,105       5,135       4,071  
Net cash from investing activities
    (14,447 )     18,430       20,046  


100


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Continued)
Years Ended December 31
(In Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


   
2012
   
2011
   
2010
 
Cash flows from financing activities
                 
Net change in deposits
    5,604       (59,783 )     (1,822 )
Net change in short-term Federal Home Loan Bank advances
    -       -       2,400  
Net change in agreements to repurchase securities
    2,897       (6,432 )     5,037  
Repayment of Federal Home Loan Bank advances
    (10,042 )     (2,564 )     (4,190 )
Repayment of other borrowed funds
    (2,081 )     (2,048 )     (7,149 )
Proceeds from other borrowings
    -       -       11,300  
Redemption of preferred stock
    (9,237 )     -       -  
Proceeds from stock option exercises
    192       -       -  
Preferred stock dividends paid
    (984 )     (1,390 )     (835 )
Common stock dividends paid
    (1,749 )     -       (1,746 )
Net cash from financing activities
    (15,400 )     (72,217 )     2,995  
                         
Net change in cash and cash equivalents
    (12,643 )     (39,360 )     37,652  
                         
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
    82,888       122,248       84,596  
                         
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
  $ 70,245     $ 82,888     $ 122,248  
                         


101


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Continued)
Years Ended December 31
(In Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


   
2012
   
2011
   
2010
 
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
                 
Cash paid during year for -
                 
Interest
  $ 6,659     $ 8,514     $ 10,016  
Income taxes paid
    2,549       2,459       1,660  
                         
Non-cash transactions
                       
Loans transferred to real estate acquired through foreclosure
  $ 5,786     $ 8,134     $ 5,553  
                         
Branches acquired:
                       
Fair value of assets acquired via branch purchase
                  $ 71,825  
Cash paid for branches
                    2,432  
Liabilities of branches assumed
                  $ 74,257  
                         

102


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc. (the Company) and its wholly-owned subsidiaries:

           
Unaudited
 
           
December 31, 2012
 
Subsidiary                               
 
Location                      
 
Year
Acquired
 
Total
Assets
   
Net
Income
 
Citizens Deposit Bank & Trust
 
Vanceburg, Kentucky
 
1991
  $ 374,456     $ 4,551  
Premier Bank, Inc.
 
Huntington, West Virginia
 
1998
    738,857       7,868  
Parent and Intercompany Eliminations
            7,474       (2,096 )
  Consolidated total
          $ 1,120,787     $ 10,323  

All material intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated.

On August 17, 2012, Premier consummated the merger of three of its subsidiary banks by merging Ohio River Bank, Inc. and Farmers Deposit Bank – Eminence, Kentucky with and into Citizens Deposit Bank & Trust.  The resultant $374 million Kentucky chartered bank, Citizens Deposit Bank & Trust, operates with 13 locations in Kentucky and Ohio.

Nature of Operations:  The subsidiary banks (Banks) operate under state bank charters. The Banks provide traditional banking services to customers primarily located in the counties and adjoining counties in Kentucky, Ohio, West Virginia, Maryland, Washington DC and Virginia in which the Banks operate.  The state chartered banks are subject to regulation by their respective state banking regulators and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”).  The Company is also subject to regulation by the Federal Reserve Board.

Cash Flows:  For purposes of reporting cash flows, cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, amounts due from banks, interest-earning balances with banks with an original maturity less than ninety days and federal funds sold.  Net cash flows are reported for loans, deposits, repurchase agreements, and short-term borrowing transactions.

(continued)
 
103


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

Estimates in the Financial Statements:  The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.  The allowance for loan losses, the identification and evaluation of impaired loans, the fair value of assets and liabilities acquired, impairment of goodwill, deferred tax assets and fair values of financial instruments are particularly subject to change.

Securities:  The Company classifies its securities portfolio as either securities available for sale or securities held to maturity.  Securities held to maturity are carried at amortized cost.

Securities available for sale might be sold before maturity and are carried at fair value.  Adjustments from amortized cost to fair value are recorded in other comprehensive income, net of related income tax. Other securities such as Federal Home Loan Bank stock and Federal Reserve Bank stock are carried at cost.

Interest income includes amortization of purchase premium or discount computed using the level yield method.  Gains or losses on dispositions are recorded on the trade date and are based on the net proceeds and adjusted carrying amount of the securities sold using the specific identification method.  Securities are written down to fair value when a decline in fair value is not temporary.

Management evaluates securities for other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) at least on a quarterly basis, and more frequently when economic or market conditions warrant such an evaluation.  Declines in the fair value of securities below their cost that are other-than-temporary are reflected as realized losses.  In estimating other-than-temporary losses, management considers the length of time and extent that fair value has been less than cost and the financial condition and near term prospects of the issuer.  Management also assesses whether it intends to sell, or it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell, a security in an unrealized loss position before recovery of its amortized cost basis. If either of the criteria regarding intent or requirement to sell is met, the entire difference between amortized cost and fair value is recognized as impairment through earnings.  For debt securities that do not meet the aforementioned criteria, the amount of impairment is split into two components as follows: 1) OTTI related to credit loss, which must be recognized in the income statement and 2) OTTI related to other factors, which is recognized in other comprehensive income.  The credit loss is defined as the difference between the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected and the amortized cost basis. For equity securities, the entire amount of impairment is recognized through earnings.


(continued)
 
104


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

Loans Held for Sale:  Mortgage loans originated and intended for sale in the secondary market are carried at the lower of aggregate cost or market, as determined by outstanding commitments from investors.  Net unrealized losses, if any, are recorded as a valuation allowance and charged to earnings.  Loans are generally sold with servicing released.

Loans:  Net loans are stated at the amount of recorded investment reduced by an allowance for loan losses.  The recorded investment in a loan is the unpaid principal reduced by any purchase discounts and unearned income.  The recorded investment excludes accrued interest receivable due to immateriality.  Interest income on loans is recognized on the unpaid principal balance on the accrual basis except for those loans in a non-accrual of income status.  The accrual of interest on impaired loans is discontinued when management believes, after consideration of economic and business conditions as well as collection efforts, that the borrowers’ financial condition is such that collection of interest is doubtful.  Loan origination fees, net of certain direct origination costs, are deferred and recognized in interest income using the level yield method without anticipating prepayments.

Interest income on mortgage and commercial loans is discontinued at the time the loan is 90 days delinquent unless the loan is well-secured and in process of collection.  Consumer loans are typically charged off no later than 120 days past due.  Past due status is based on the contractual terms of the loan.  In all cases, loans are placed on nonaccrual or charged-off at an earlier date if collection of principal or interest is considered doubtful.  Non-accrual loans and loans past due 90 days still on accrual include both smaller balance homogeneous loans that are collectively evaluated for impairment and individually classified impaired loans.  A loan is moved to non-accrual status in accordance with the Company’s policy, typically after 90 days of non-payment.

All interest accrued but not received for loans placed on non-accrual is reversed against interest income.  Interest received on such loans is accounted for on the cash-basis or cost-recovery method, until qualifying for return to accrual.  Loans are returned to accrual status when all the principal and interest amounts contractually due are brought current and future payments are reasonably assured.

Concentration of Credit Risk:  Most of the Company’s loans located in the Washington, DC metro area are commercial real estate loans.  Therefore, the Company’s exposure to credit risk is significantly affected by changes in the economy and commercial real estate collateral values in the Washington, DC metro area.

Certain Purchased Loans:  Loans acquired via branch purchase or acquisition after December 31, 2008 are recorded at the amount paid, such that there is no carryover of the seller’s allowance for loan losses.  Some of these purchased loans have shown evidence of credit deterioration since origination.  After acquisition, losses are recognized by an increase in the allowance for loan losses.

(continued)
 
105


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

Such purchased loans are accounted for individually or may be aggregated into pools of loans based on common risk characteristics such as loan type.  The Company estimates the amount and timing of expected cash flows for each purchased loan or pool, and the expected cash flows in excess of amount paid is recorded as interest income over the remaining life of the loan or pool (accretable yield).  The excess of the loan’s or pool’s contractual principal and interest over expected cash flows is not recorded (nonaccretable difference).

Over the life of the loan or pool, expected cash flows continue to be estimated.  If the present value of expected cash flows is less than the carrying amount, a loss is recorded as an increase in the allowance for loan losses.  If the present value of expected cash flows is greater than the carrying amount, it is recognized as part of future interest income.

Allowance for Loan Losses:  The allowance for loan losses is a valuation allowance for probable incurred credit losses increased by a provision for loan losses charged to expense.  The allowance is an amount that management believes will be adequate to absorb probable incurred losses on existing loans based on evaluations of the collectability of the loans and prior loan loss experience.  The evaluations take into consideration such factors as changes in the nature and volume of the loan portfolio, overall portfolio quality, review of specific problem loans, and current economic conditions that may affect the borrowers’ ability to pay.  Allocations of the allowance may be made for specific loans, but the entire allowance is available for any loan that, in management’s judgment, should be charged-off.  Loans are charged against the allowance for loan losses when management believes that the collection of principal is unlikely.  Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance.

A loan is impaired when full payment under the loan terms is not expected.  Impairment is evaluated in total for smaller-balance loans of similar nature such as residential mortgage, consumer, and credit card loans, and accordingly, they are not separately identified for impairment disclosures.  All other loans are evaluated for impairment on an individual basis. Factors considered by management in determining impairment include payment status, collateral value, and the probability of collecting scheduled principal and interest payments when due.  Loans that experience insignificant payment delays and payment shortfalls generally are not classified as impaired.  Management determines the significance of payment delays and payment shortfalls on case-by-case basis, taking into consideration all of the circumstances surrounding the loan and the borrower, including the length of the delay, the reasons for the delay, the borrower’s prior payment record, and the amount of the shortfall in relation to the principal and interest owed.   If a loan is impaired, a portion of the allowance is allocated so that the loan is reported, net, at the present value of estimated future cash flows using the loan’s existing rate or at the fair value of collateral if repayment is expected solely

(continued)
 
106


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

from the collateral.  Loans with restructured terms offering a concession to enable a struggling borrower to repay (Troubled Debt Restructurings) are measured at the present value of estimated future cash flows using the loan’s effective rate at inception.  If a troubled debt restructuring is considered to be a collateral dependent loan, the loan is reported, net, at the fair value of the collateral.  For troubled debt restructurings that subsequently default, the Company determines the amount of reserve in accordance with the accounting policy for the allowance for loan losses.

The general component of the allowance covers non-impaired loans and is based on historical loss experience adjusted for current factors.  The historical loss experience is determined by portfolio segment and is based on the actual loss history experienced by the Company over the most recent 36 months.  This actual loss experience is supplemented with other economic factors based on the risks present for each portfolio segment.  These economic factors include consideration of the following:  levels of and trends in delinquencies and impaired loans; levels of and trends in charge-offs and recoveries; trends in volume and terms of loans; effects of any changes in risk selection and underwriting standards; other changes in lending policies, procedures, and practices; experience, ability, and depth of lending management and other relevant staff; national and local economic trends and conditions; industry conditions; and effects of changes in credit concentrations.  The following portfolio segments have been identified as having differing risk characteristics:
Loans secured by 1-4 family real estate:  Loans secured by 1-4 family residential real estate represent the lowest risk of loans for the Company.  They include fixed and floating rate loans as well as loans for commercial purposes or consumer purposes.  The Company generally does not hold subprime residential mortgages.  Borrowers with loans in this category, whether for commercial or consumer purposes, tend to make their payments timely as they do not want to risk foreclosure and loss of their primary residence.

Loans secured by multifamily residential real estate:  Loans secured by multifamily residential real estate consist primarily of loans secured by apartment buildings and can be either fixed or floating rate loans.  Multi-family residential real estate loans generally present a higher level of risk than loans secured by 1-4 family residential real estate because the borrower’s repayment ability typically comes from rents from tenants.  Local economic and employment fluctuations impact rent rolls and potentially the borrower’s repayment ability.

Loans secured by owner occupied non-farm non-residential real estate:  Loans secured by owner occupied non-farm non-residential real estate consist of loans secured by commercial real estate owned and operated by the borrower.  These loans generally consist of loans to borrowers who either own the commercial real estate where their business is located and have pledged the property as collateral or have borrowed funds from the Company to purchase the commercial real estate where their business is operated and located.  The key factor is that the business operated within the pledged collateral generates the cash flow for repayment.  These loans generally present a higher level of risk than loans secured by multifamily residential real estate because the cash flow for repayment generally comes from the success of the business.  If economic conditions deteriorate, the business venture may not be successful or as successful in order for the borrower to make their loan payments and fund personal living expenses at the same time.  Collateral values will also fluctuate with local economic conditions.

(continued)
 
107


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

Loans secured by non-farm non-residential real estate: Loans secured by non-farm non-residential real estate consist of loans secured by commercial real estate that is not owner occupied.  These loans generally consist of loans collateralized by property whereby rents received from commercial tenants of the borrower are the source of repayment.   These loans generally present a higher level of risk than loans secured by owner occupied commercial real estate because repayment risk is expanded to be dependent on the success of multiple businesses which are paying rent to the borrower.  If multiple businesses fail due to deteriorating economic conditions or poor business management skills, the borrower may not have enough rents to cover their monthly payment.  Repayment risk is also increased depending on the level of surplus available commercial lease space in the local market area.

Commercial and industrial loans not secured by real estate:  These loans to businesses do not have real estate as the underlying collateral.  Instead of real estate, collateral could be business assets such as equipment or accounts receivable or the personal guarantee of one or more guarantors.  These loans generally present a higher level of risk than loans secured commercial real estate because in the event of default by the borrower, the business assets must be liquidated and/or guarantors pursued for deficit funds.  Business assets are worth more while they are in use to produce income for the business and worth significantly less if the business is no longer in operation.  For this reason, the Company discounts the value on these types of collateral prior to meeting the Company’s loan-to-value policy limits.

Consumer loans:  Consumer loans are generally loans to borrowers for non-business purposes.  They can be either secured or unsecured.  Consumer loans are generally small in the individual amount of principal outstanding and are repaid from the borrower’s private funds earned from employment.  Consumer lending risk is very susceptible to local economic trends.  If there is a consumer loan default, any collateral that may be repossessed is generally not well maintained and has a diminished value.  For this reason, consumer loans tend to have higher overall interest rates to cover the higher cost repossession and charge-offs.  However, due to their smaller average balance per borrower, consumer loans are collectively evaluated for impairment in determining the appropriate allowance for loan losses.

All other loan types:  All other loan types are aggregated together for credit risk evaluation due to the varying nature but small number of the remaining types of loans in the Company’s loan portfolio.  Loans in this segment include but are not limited to construction loans, loans secured by farmland, agricultural loans, loans to financial institutions and loans to tax-exempt entities.

Transfers of Financial Assets:  Transfers of financial assets are accounted for as sales, when control over the assets has been relinquished.  Control over transferred assets is deemed to be surrendered when the assets have been isolated from the Company, the transferee obtains the right (free of conditions that constrain it from taking advantage of that right) to pledge or exchange the transferred assets, and the Company does not maintain effective control over the transferred assets through an agreement to repurchase them before their maturity.

(continued)
 
108


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

Premises and Equipment:  Land is carried at cost.  Premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation.  Depreciation is recorded principally by the straight-line method with useful lives ranging from 7 to 40 years for premises and from 3 to 15 years for equipment.

Other Real Estate Owned:  Real estate acquired through foreclosure is carried at the lower of the recorded investment in the property or its fair value less estimated costs to sell.  Upon repossession, the value of the underlying loan is adjusted to the fair value of the real estate less estimated costs to sell by a charge to the allowance for loan losses, if necessary, establishing a new cost basis.  If the fair value of the property declines subsequent to foreclosure, a valuation allowance is charged to operating expenses. Parcels of real estate maybe leased to third parties to offset holding period costs. Operating expenses of such properties, net of related income, and gains and losses on their disposition are included in other expenses.

Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) stock:  The Banks are members of the FHLB system.  Members are required to own a certain amount of stock based on the level of borrowings and other factors, and may invest in additional amounts.  FHLB stock is carried at cost, classified as a restricted security, and periodically evaluated for impairment based on ultimate recovery of par value.  Both cash and stock dividends are reported as income.

Federal Reserve Bank (“FRB”) Stock:  Prior to its merger into Premier Bank, Inc., Consolidated Bank and Trust was a member of the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond and owned FRB Stock.  FRB stock is carried at cost, classified as a restricted security, and periodically evaluated for impairment based on ultimate recovery of par value.  Both cash and stock dividends are reported as income.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets:  Goodwill resulting from business combinations prior to January 1, 2009 represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the net assets of businesses acquired.  Goodwill resulting from business combinations after January 1, 2009, is generally determined as the excess of the fair value of the consideration transferred, plus the fair value of any non-controlling interests in the acquired company, over the fair value of the net assets acquired and liabilities assumed as of the acquisition date.  Goodwill is not amortized but is assessed at least annually for impairment and any such impairment will be recognized in the period identified.  Impairment is evaluated using the aggregate of all banking operations.  Based upon the most recently completed goodwill impairment test, management concluded the recorded value of goodwill was not impaired as of October 31, 2012 based upon the estimated fair value of the Company’s single reporting unit.

Other intangible assets consist of core deposit intangible assets arising from whole bank and branch acquisitions.  They are initially measured at fair value and then are amortized on an accelerated method over their estimated useful lives of approximately 8 years.

(continued)
 
109


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

Long-term Assets: Premises and equipment and other long-term assets are reviewed for impairment when events indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable from future undiscounted cash flows.  If impaired, the assets are recorded at fair value.

Repurchase Agreements:  Substantially all repurchase agreement liabilities represent amounts advanced by various customers.  Securities are pledged to cover these liabilities, which are not covered by federal deposit insurance.

Stock Based Compensation:  Compensation cost is recognized for stock options granted to employees based on the fair value of these awards at the date of grant. A Black-Scholes model is utilized to estimate the fair value of stock options.  Compensation cost is recognized on a straight-line basis over the required service period, generally defined as the vesting period.

Income Taxes:  Income tax expense is the total of the current year income tax due or refundable and the change in deferred tax assets and liabilities.  Deferred tax assets and liabilities are the expected future tax amounts for the temporary differences between carrying amounts and tax bases of assets and liabilities, computed using enacted tax rates.  A valuation allowance, if needed, reduces deferred tax assets to the amount expected to be realized.

A tax position is recognized as a benefit only if it is more likely than not that the tax position would be sustained in a tax examination, with a tax examination being presumed to occur. The amount recognized is the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized on examination. For tax positions not meeting the "more likely than not" test, no tax benefit is recorded.

The Company recognizes interest related to income tax matters as other interest expense and penalties related to income tax matters as other noninterest expense.

Off Balance Sheet Financial Instruments:  Financial instruments include off-balance sheet credit instruments, such as commitments to make loans and commercial letters of credit, issued to meet customer financing needs.  The face amount for these items represents the exposure to loss, before considering customer collateral or ability to repay.  Such financial instruments are recorded when they are funded.



(continued)
 
110


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

Earnings Per Common Share:  Basic earnings per common share is net income (available to common shareholders) divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period.  Diluted earnings per common share includes the dilutive effect of additional potential common shares issuable under stock options and stock warrants.  Earnings and dividends per share are restated for all stock splits and dividends through the date of issuance of the financial statements.

Comprehensive Income:  Comprehensive income consists of net income and other comprehensive income.  Other comprehensive income includes unrealized gains and losses on securities available for sale which is also recognized as a separate component of equity.  Comparative comprehensive income for 2010 has been updated to eliminate the reduction in net income for any preferred stock dividends and accretion.

Loss Contingencies:  Loss contingencies, including claims and legal actions arising in the ordinary course of business, are recorded as liabilities when the likelihood of loss is probable and an amount or range of loss can be reasonably estimated.  Management does not believe there now are such matters that will have a material effect on the financial statements.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments:  Fair values of financial instruments are estimated using relevant market information and other assumptions, as more fully disclosed in a separate note.  Fair value estimates involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment regarding interest rates, credit risk, prepayments, and other factors, especially in the absence of broad markets for particular items.  Changes in assumptions or in market conditions could significantly affect the estimates.

Operating Segments:  All of the Company’s operations are considered by management to be aggregated into one reportable operating segment.  While the chief decision-makers monitor the revenue streams of the various products and services, the identifiable segments are not material.  Operations are managed and financial performance is evaluated on a Company-wide basis.

Reclassifications:  Some items in the prior year financial statements were reclassified to conform to the current presentation.



(continued)
 
111


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

Adoption of New Accounting Standards:

In July 2012, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) amended existing guidance relating to testing indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment.  The amendment permits an assessment of qualitative factors to determine whether the existence of events and circumstances indicates that it is more likely than not that the indefinite-lived intangible asset is impaired.  If, after assessing the totality of events and circumstances, it is concluded that it is not more likely than not that the indefinite-lived intangible asset is impaired, then no further action is required.  However, after the same assessment, if it is concluded that it is more likely than not that the indefinite-lived intangible asset is impaired, then a quantitative impairment test should be performed whereby the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset is compared to the carrying amount.  The amendments in this guidance are effective for annual and interim impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after September 15, 2012.  Early adoption is permitted.  The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material impact upon the Company’s financial statements.

In September 2011, the FASB amended existing guidance relating to goodwill impairment testing.  The amendment permits an assessment of qualitative factors to determine whether the existence of events or circumstances leads to a determination that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount.  If, after assessing these events or circumstances, it is concluded that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, then performing the two-step impairment test is unnecessary.  The amendments in this guidance are effective for annual and interim goodwill impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2011.  The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact upon the Company’s financial statements.

In June 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-05, "Comprehensive Income (Topic 220) - Presentation of Comprehensive Income." The ASU requires entities to present items of net income and other comprehensive income either in one continuous statement - referred to as the statement of comprehensive income - or in two separate, but consecutive, statements of net income and other comprehensive income. The ASU is effective for the first interim period and annual period beginning after December 15, 2011. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact upon the Company’s financial statements.





(continued)
 
112


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

In May 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-04, "Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820) - Amendments to Achieve Common Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure Requirements in U.S. GAAP and IFRSs." This ASU represents the converged guidance of the FASB and the IASB (the "Boards") on fair value measurement. The collective efforts of the Boards and their staffs, reflected in ASU 2011-04, have resulted in common requirements for measuring fair value and for disclosing information about fair value measurements, including a consistent meaning of the term "fair value." The Boards have concluded the common requirements will result in greater comparability of fair value measurements presented and disclosed in financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP and IFRSs. Included in the ASU are requirements to disclose additional quantitative disclosures about unobservable inputs for all Level 3 fair value measurements, as well as qualitative disclosures about the sensitivity inherent in recurring Level 3 fair value measurements. The ASU is effective during interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact upon the Company’s financial statements.



(continued)
 
113


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  2 – REGULATORY MATTERS

On July 29, 2010, Consolidated Bank and Trust Company (“CB&T”), then a wholly owned subsidiary of Premier, the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond (“FRB”) and the State Corporation Commission Bureau of Financial Institutions (“Virginia Bureau”) entered into a written agreement (“Written Agreement”) requiring CB&T to perform certain actions primarily designed to improve the credit quality of the bank.  Premier, as parent of CB&T, was also named as party to the Written Agreement to ensure that the CB&T complied with the Written Agreement.  On April 8, 2011, CB&T was merged into Premier Bank, Inc.  As such, the provisions of the Written Agreement that applied to CB&T were no longer in effect.

In addition to ensuring CB&T complied with provisions of the Written Agreement, Premier was also required Premier to obtain prior written approval of the FRB and the Director of the Division of Banking Supervision and Regulation of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System for declaring or paying any dividends, and also required prior written approval of the FRB before incurring, increasing or guaranteeing any debt or purchasing or redeeming any shares of its stock.
 
On July 24, 2012 the FRB announced that it had terminated the July 29, 2010 Written Agreement.


(continued)
 
114


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  3 - RESTRICTIONS ON CASH AND DUE FROM BANKS

Included in cash and due from banks are certain interest bearing and non-interest bearing deposits that are held at the Federal Reserve or maintained in vault cash in accordance with average balance requirements specified by the Federal Reserve Board of Governors. The balance requirement at December 31, 2012 and 2011 was approximately $22,755 and $18,503.

NOTE  4 –SECURITIES

Amortized cost and fair value of securities available for sale and the related gross unrealized gains and losses recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) were as follows:

    2012
 
Amortized Cost
   
Unrealized Gains
   
Unrealized Losses
   
Fair Value
 
Available for sale
                       
Mortgage-backed securities
                       
U. S. sponsored agency MBS - residential
  $ 35,172     $ 1,928     $ -     $ 37,100  
U. S. sponsored agency CMO’s - residential
    206,466       6,392       (11 )     212,847  
Total mortgage-backed securities of
government sponsored agencies
    241,638       8,320       (11 )     249,947  
U. S. government sponsored agency securities
    22,062       182       -       22,244  
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
    7,419       441       -       7,860  
Other securities
    2,892       1,105       (73 )     3,924  
Total available for sale
  $ 274,011     $ 10,048     $ (84 )   $ 283,975  

    2011
 
Amortized Cost
   
Unrealized Gains
   
Unrealized Losses
   
Fair Value
 
Available for sale
                       
Mortgage-backed securities
                       
U. S. sponsored agency MBS - residential
  $ 38,403     $ 1,856     $ (4 )   $ 40,255  
U. S. sponsored agency CMO’s - residential
    200,835       4,933       (30 )     205,738  
Total mortgage-backed securities of
government sponsored agencies
    239,238       6,789       (34 )     245,993  
U. S. government sponsored agency securities
    18,114       58       (31 )     18,141  
  Obligations of states and political subdivisions
    9,193       457       -       9,650  
Other securities
    4,338       440       (83 )     4,695  
Total available for sale
  $ 270,883     $ 7,744     $ (148 )   $ 278,479  
                                 


(continued)
 
115


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  4 –SECURITIES (Continued)

The amortized cost and fair value of securities at December 31, 2012 by contractual maturity are shown below.  Expected maturities will differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties.

   
Amortized
Cost
   
Fair
Value
 
Available for sale
           
Due in one year or less
  $ 726     $ 682  
Due after one year through five years
    19,613       20,117  
Due after five years through ten years
    9,712       9,829  
Due after ten years
    1,230       1,824  
Corporate preferred securities
    1,092       1,576  
Mortgage-backed securities of government sponsored agencies
    241,638       249,947  
Total available for sale
  $ 274,011     $ 283,975  
                 

A $545 gain was recognized from calls of securities in 2012 while an $18 gain was recognized from calls in 2011.  There were no sales of securities in 2012, 2011 or 2010.

Securities with an approximate carrying value of $173,015 and $147,496 at December 31, 2012 and 2011 were pledged to secure public deposits, trust funds, securities sold under agreements to repurchase and for other purposes as required or permitted by law.

Securities with unrealized losses at year-end 2012 aggregated by investment category and length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position are as follows:

   
Less than 12 Months
   
12 Months or More
   
Total
 
Description of Securities
 
Fair Value
   
Unrealized Loss
   
Fair Value
   
Unrealized Loss
   
Fair Value
   
Unrealized Loss
 
                                     
U.S government sponsored
agency CMO's – residential
  $ 2,077     $ (11 )   $ -     $ -     $ 2,077     $ (11 )
Other securities
    -       -       4       (73 )     4       (73 )
                                                 
Total temporarily impaired
  $ 2,077     $ (11 )   $ 4     $ (73 )   $ 2,081     $ (84 )


(continued)
 
116


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  4 –SECURITIES (Continued)

Securities with unrealized losses at year-end 2011 aggregated by investment category and length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position are as follows:

   
Less than 12 Months
   
12 Months or More
   
Total
 
Description of Securities
 
Fair Value
   
Unrealized Loss
   
Fair Value
   
Unrealized Loss
   
Fair Value
   
Unrealized Loss
 
                                     
U.S. government sponsored
agency securities
  $ 7,080     $ (31 )   $ -     $ -     $ 7,080     $ (31 )
U.S government sponsored
agency MBS – residential
    2,544       (4 )     -       -       2,544       (4 )
U.S government sponsored
agency CMO – residential
    3,941       (30 )     -       -       3,941       (30 )
Other securities
    370       (83 )     -       -       370       (83 )
                                                 
Total temporarily impaired
  $ 13,935     $ (148 )   $ -     $ -     $ 13,935     $ (148 )

The investment portfolio is predominately high quality interest-bearing bonds with defined maturity dates backed by the U.S. Government or Government sponsored entities.  The unrealized losses at December 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011 are price changes resulting from changes in the interest rate environment and are considered to be temporary declines in the value of the securities. Their fair value is expected to recover as the bonds approach their maturity date and/or market conditions improve.


NOTE  5 - LOANS

Major classifications of loans at year-end are summarized as follows:

   
2012
   
2011
 
Residential real estate
  $ 214,743     $ 221,756  
Multifamily real estate
    28,673       34,335  
Commercial real estate:
               
Owner occupied
    91,902       101,864  
Non owner occupied
    178,849       166,540  
Commercial and industrial
    84,430       76,960  
Consumer
    28,128       30,090  
All other
    77,900       59,378  
    $ 704,625     $ 690,923  


(continued)
 
117


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  5 – LOANS (Continued)

Certain directors and executive officers of the Banks and companies in which they have beneficial ownership, were loan customers of the Banks during 2012 and 2011.  Such related party loans are governed by federal banking regulations which require such loans to be made in the ordinary course of business.

An analysis of the 2012 activity with respect to all director and executive officer loans is as follows:

Balance, December 31, 2011
  $ 18,412  
Additions, including loans now meeting disclosure requirements
    2,865  
Amounts collected and loans no longer meeting disclosure requirements
    (4,638 )
Balance, December 31, 2012
  $ 16,639  


(continued)
 
118


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  5 – LOANS (Continued)

Activity in the Allowance for Loan Losses

Activity in the allowance for loan losses by portfolio segment for the year ending December 31, 2012 was as follows:

Loan Class
 
Balance
Dec 31, 2011
   
Provision for loan losses
   
Loans
charged-off
   
Recoveries
   
Balance
Dec 31, 2012
 
                               
Residential real estate
  $ 2,134     $ 709     $ (728 )   $ 48     $ 2,163  
Multifamily real estate
    284       47       -       -       331  
Commercial real estate:
                                       
Owner occupied
    918       (68 )     (15 )     282       1,117  
Non owner occupied
    2,381       (198 )     (318 )     23       1,888  
Commercial and industrial
    1,880       2,419       (1,259 )     6       3,046  
Consumer
    298       72       (227 )     101       244  
All other
    1,900       1,279       (606 )     126       2,699  
Total
  $ 9,795     $ 4,260     $ (3,153 )   $ 586     $ 11,488  

Activity in the allowance for loan losses by portfolio segment for the year ending December 31, 2011 was as follows:

Loan Class
 
Balance
Dec 31, 2010
   
Provision for loan losses
   
Loans
charged-off
   
Recoveries
   
Balance
Dec 31, 2011
 
                               
Residential real estate
  $ 2,666     $ (241 )   $ (347 )   $ 56     $ 2,134  
Multifamily real estate
    252       11       -       21       284  
Commercial real estate:
                                       
Owner occupied
    1,141       (52 )     (171 )     -       918  
Non owner occupied
    1,644       1,081       (382 )     38       2,381  
Commercial and industrial
    2,421       (555 )     (23 )     37       1,880  
Consumer
    366       (4 )     (152 )     88       298  
All other
    1,375       3,390       (2,951 )     86       1,900  
Total
  $ 9,865     $ 3,630     $ (4,026 )   $ 326     $ 9,795  

Activity in the allowance for loan losses was as follows:

   
2010
 
Balance, beginning of year
  $ 7,569  
Loans charged off
    (1,473 )
Recoveries
    472  
Provision for loan losses
    3,297  
Balance, end of year
  $ 9,865  
         


(continued)
 
119


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  5 – LOANS (Continued)

Purchased Loans

The Company holds purchased loans for which there was, at their acquisition date, evidence of deterioration of credit quality since their origination and it was probable, at acquisition, that all contractually required payments would not be collected.  The carrying amount of those loans is as follows at December 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011.

   
2012
   
2011
 
Residential Real Estate
  $ 202     $ 282  
Multifamily Real Estate
    3,173       3,708  
Commercial Real Estate
               
Owner Occupied
    271       1,934  
Non owner Occupied
    5,896       6,427  
Commercial and industrial
    511       583  
All other
    4,496       1,925  
Total carrying amount
  $ 14,549     $ 14,859  
                 
Carrying amount, net of allowance
  $ 14,049     $ 14,859  

For those purchased loans disclosed above, the Company decreased the allowance for loan losses by $190 for the year ended December 31, 2011 and increased the allowance for loan losses by $500 for the year ended December 31, 2012.

For the majority of these loans in 2012, and for all of these loans prior to 2012, the Company cannot reasonably estimate the cash flows expected to be collected on the loans and therefore has continued to account for the loans using the cost recovery method of income recognition.  As such, no portion of a purchase discount adjustment has been determined to meet the definition of an accretable yield adjustment.  If, in the future, cash flows from the borrower(s) can be reasonably estimated, a portion of the purchase discount would be allocated to an accretable yield adjustment based upon the present value of the future estimated cash flows versus the current carrying value of the loan and the accretable yield portion would be recognized as interest income over the remaining life of the loan.  Until such accretable yield can be calculated, under the cost recovery method of income recognition, all payments will be used to reduce the carrying value of the loan and no income will be recognized on the loan until the carrying value is reduced to zero.  Any loan accounted for under the cost recovery method is also still included as a non-accrual loan in the amounts presented in the tables below.

During 2012, the Company determined that the cash flows from borrowers on a limited number of purchased loans could be reasonably estimated.  As such, a portion of the non-accretable difference was reclassified to accretable yield and is being recognized as interest income over the remaining life of the loan(s).

(continued)
 
120


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  5 – LOANS (Continued)

The accretable yield, or income expected to be collected, on the purchased loans above is as follows at December 31, 2012.  There was no accretable yield on the purchased loans above prior to January 1, 2012.

   
2012
 
Balance at January 1
  $ -  
New loans purchased
    -  
Accretion of income
    (6 )
Reclassifications from non-accretable difference
    641  
Disposals
    -  
Balance at December 31
  $ 635  

During 2012, the Company purchased $9,969 of contractually required payments on a loan classified as “all other” for which it was probable at acquisition that all contractually required payments would not be collected.  The fair value on the loan was estimated to be $2,772 at the time of acquisition.  The Company cannot reasonably estimate the cash flows expected to be collected on the loan as the loan is in the process of collection and the proceeds for repayment are expected to come from collateral sales, the timing of which cannot be reasonably estimated.  As such, no portion of a purchase discount adjustment has been determined to meet the definition of an accretable yield adjustment.



(continued)
 
121


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  5 – LOANS (Continued)

Past Due and Non-performing Loans

The following tables present the recorded investment in nonaccrual and loans past due over 90 days still on accrual by class of loans as of December 31, 2012 and December 31 2011.  The recorded investment in non-accrual loans is less than the principal owed on non-accrual loans due to discounts applied to the carrying value of the loan at time of their acquisition and interest payments made by the borrower which have been used to reduce the recorded investment in the loan rather than recognized as interest income.

December 31, 2012
 
Principal Owed on Non-accrual Loans
   
Recorded Investment in Non-accrual Loans
   
Loans Past Due Over 90 Days, still accruing
 
                   
Residential  real estate
  $ 3,145     $ 2,813     $ 208  
Multifamily real estate
    5,501       4,390       227  
Commercial real estate
                       
Owner occupied
    1,153       976       783  
Non owner occupied
    3,207       2,174       74  
Commercial and industrial
    11,407       9,897       555  
Consumer
    278       267       -  
All other
    5,468       5,289       2,043  
Total
  $ 30,159     $ 25,806     $ 3,890  
                         

December 31, 2011
 
Principal Owed on Non-accrual Loans
   
Recorded Investment in Non-accrual Loans
   
Loans Past Due Over 90 Days, still accruing
 
                   
Residential  real estate
  $ 4,479     $ 4,111     $ 1,216  
Multifamily real estate
    13,118       11,139       -  
Commercial real estate
                       
Owner occupied
    9,970       8,260       851  
Non owner occupied
    12,938       9,835       1,596  
Commercial and industrial
    4,756       3,227       814  
Consumer
    246       237       50  
All other
    9,198       5,545       -  
Total
  $ 54,705     $ 42,354     $ 4,527  
                         

Nonaccrual loans and impaired loans are defined differently. Some loans may be included in both categories, and some may only be included in one category. Nonaccrual loans include both smaller balance homogeneous loans that are collectively evaluated for impairment and individually classified impaired loans.

(continued)
 
122


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  5 – LOANS (Continued)

The following table presents the aging of the recorded investment in past due loans as of December 31, 2012 by class of loans:
Loan Class
 
Total Loans
   
30-89 Days
Past Due
   
Greater than 90 days past due
   
Total
Past Due
   
Loans Not
Past Due
 
                               
Residential real estate
  $ 214,743     $ 9,356     $ 2,040     $ 11,396     $ 203,347  
Multifamily real estate
    28,673       695       3,893       4,588       24,085  
Commercial real estate:
                                       
Owner occupied
    91,902       6,212       1,129       7,341       84,561  
Non owner occupied
    178,849       5,267       2,248       7,515       171,334  
Commercial and industrial
    84,430       2,306       2,485       4,791       79,639  
Consumer
    28,128       602       176       778       27,350  
All other
    77,900       468       7,332       7,800       70,100  
Total
  $ 704,625     $ 24,906     $ 19,303     $ 44,209     $ 660,416  

The following table presents the aging of the recorded investment in past due loans as of December 31, 2011 by class of loans:
Loan Class
 
Total Loans
   
30-89 Days
Past Due
   
Greater than 90 days past due
   
Total
Past Due
   
Loans Not
Past Due
 
                               
Residential real estate
  $ 221,756     $ 6,729     $ 3,635     $ 10,364     $ 211,392  
Multifamily real estate
    34,335       3,249       8,892       12,141       22,194  
Commercial real estate:
                                       
Owner occupied
    101,864       8,081       3,981       12,062       89,802  
Non owner occupied
    166,540       2,444       6,065       8,509       158,031  
Commercial and industrial
    76,960       1,714       3,153       4,867       72,093  
Consumer
    30,090       497       233       730       29,360  
All other
    59,378       222       5,532       5,754       53,624  
Total
  $ 690,923     $ 22,936     $ 31,491     $ 54,427     $ 636,496  



(continued)
 
123


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  5 – LOANS (Continued)

The following table presents the balance in the allowance for loan losses and the recorded investment in loans by portfolio segment and based on impairment method as of December 31, 2012:
   
Allowance for Loan Losses
   
Loan Balances
 
Loan Class
 
Individually Evaluated for Impairment
   
Collectively Evaluated for Impairment
   
Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality
   
Total
   
Individually Evaluated for Impairment
   
Collectively Evaluated for Impairment
   
Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality
   
Total
 
                                                 
Residential real estate
  $ 358     $ 1,805     $ -     $ 2,163     $ 4,609     $ 209,932     $ 202     $ 214,743  
Multifamily real estate
    -       331       -       331       1,670       23,830       3,173       28,673  
Commercial real estate:
                                                               
Owner occupied
    74       1,043       -       1,117       2,511       89,120       271       91,902  
Non-owner occupied
    362       1,526       -       1,888       2,627       170,326       5,896       178,849  
Commercial and industrial
    2,173       873       -       3,046       10,799       73,120       511       84,430  
Consumer
    -       244       -       244       -       28,128       -       28,128  
All other
    375       1,824       500       2,699       4,271       69,133       4,496       77,900  
Total
  $ 3,342     $ 7,646     $ 500     $ 11,488     $ 26,487     $ 663,589     $ 14,549     $ 704,625  

The following table presents the balance in the allowance for loan losses and the recorded investment in loans by portfolio segment and based on impairment method as of December 31, 2011:
   
Allowance for Loan Losses
   
Loan Balances
 
Loan Class
 
Individually Evaluated for Impairment
   
Collectively Evaluated for Impairment
   
Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality
   
Total
   
Individually Evaluated for Impairment
   
Collectively Evaluated for Impairment
   
Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality
   
Total
 
                                                 
Residential real estate
  $ 451     $ 1,683     $ -     $ 2,134     $ 9,795     $ 211,679     $ 282     $ 221,756  
Multifamily real estate
    -       284       -       284       8,594       22,033       3,708       34,335  
Commercial real estate:
                                                               
Owner occupied
    138       780       -       918       8,663       91,267       1,934       101,864  
Non-owner occupied
    922       1,459       -       2,381       5,147       154,966       6,427       166,540  
Commercial and industrial
    894       986       -       1,880       3,636       72,741       583       76,960  
Consumer
    37       261       -       298       37       30,053       -       30,090  
All other
    605       1,295       -       1,900       8,372       49,081       1,925       59,378  
Total
  $ 3,047     $ 6,748     $ -     $ 9,795     $ 44,244     $ 631,820     $ 14,859     $ 690,923  

(continued)
 
124


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  5 – LOANS (Continued)

In the tables below, total individually evaluated impaired loans include certain purchased loans that were acquired with deteriorated credit quality that are still individually evaluated for impairment.

The following table presents loans individually evaluated for impairment by class of loans as of December 31, 2012.  The table includes $9,421 of loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality that are still individually evaluated for impairment.

   
Unpaid Principal Balance
   
Recorded Investment
   
Allowance for Loan Losses Allocated
 
With no related allowance recorded:
                 
Residential  real estate
  $ 1,886     $ 1,714     $ -  
Multifamily real estate
    6,332       4,533       -  
Commercial real estate
                       
Owner occupied
    2,876       2,196       -  
Non owner occupied
    3,912       2,916       -  
Commercial and industrial
    2,031       837       -  
All other
    3,426       3,427       -  
      20,463       15,623       -  
With an allowance recorded:
                       
Residential  real estate
  $ 3,118     $ 3,097     $ 358  
Commercial real estate
                       
Owner occupied
    586       586       74  
Non owner occupied
    809       789       362  
Commercial and industrial
    10,771       10,473       2,173  
All other
    5,517       5,340       875  
      20,801       20,285       3,842  
Total
  $ 41,264     $ 35,908     $ 3,842  
                         



(continued)
 
125


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  5 – LOANS (Continued)

The following table presents loans individually evaluated for impairment by class of loans as of December 31, 2011.  The table includes $14,859 of loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality that are still individually evaluated for impairment.

   
Unpaid Principal Balance
   
Recorded Investment
   
Allowance for Loan Losses Allocated
 
With no related allowance recorded:
                 
Residential  real estate
  $ 5,602     $ 5,329     $ -  
Multifamily real estate
    15,513       12,302       -  
Commercial real estate
                       
Owner occupied
    10,939       9,291       -  
Non owner occupied
    12,296       9,383       -  
Commercial and industrial
    3,392       2,287       -  
All other
    8,957       5,306       -  
      56,699       43,898       -  
With an allowance recorded:
                       
Residential  real estate
  $ 4,803     $ 4,748     $ 451  
Commercial real estate
                       
Owner occupied
    1,384       1,306       138  
Non owner occupied
    2,240       2,191       922  
Commercial and industrial
    2,242       1,932       894  
Consumer
    37       37       37  
All other
    4,992       4,991       605  
      15,698       15,205       3,047  
Total
  $ 72,397     $ 59,103     $ 3,047  
                         


(continued)
 
126


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  5 – LOANS (Continued)

Impaired loans were as follows:

   
2012
   
2011
   
2010
 
Impaired loans at year-end with an allowance
  $ 20,285     $ 15,205     $ 17,397  
Impaired loans at year-end with no allowance
    15,623       43,898       31,703  
Amount of the allowance for loan losses allocated
    3,842       3,047       2,522  
Average of impaired loans during the year
    49,690       53,719       67,942  
Interest income recognized during impairment
    4,472       1,836       789  
Cash-basis interest income recognized
    4,416       1,802       733  
                         

The following table presents by loan class, the average balance of loans individually evaluated for impairment and interest income recognized on these loans for the year ended December 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011.   The table includes loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality that are still individually evaluated for impairment.

   
Year ended December 31, 2012
   
Year ended December 31, 2011
 
Loan Class
 
Average Recorded Investment
   
Interest Income Recognized
   
Cash Basis Interest Recognized
   
Average Recorded Investment
   
Interest Income Recognized
   
Cash Basis Interest Recognized
 
                                     
Residential real estate
  $ 8,887     $ 518     $ 516     $ 2,227     $ 84     $ 81  
Multifamily real estate
    6,143       1,408       1,406       8,428       150       151  
Commercial real estate:
                                               
Owner occupied
    7,195       1,025       1,028       12,653       1,083       1,082  
Non-owner occupied
    9,785       73       79       11,417       113       84  
Commercial and industrial
    10,052       427       417       7,196       217       211  
Consumer
    29       2       2       43       5       5  
All other
    7,599       1,019       968       11,755       184       188  
Total
  $ 49,690     $ 4,472     $ 4,416     $ 53,719     $ 1,836     $ 1,802  



(continued)
 
127


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  5 – LOANS (Continued)

Troubled Debt Restructurings

A loan is classified as a troubled debt restructuring ("TDR") when loan terms are modified due to a borrower's financial difficulties and a concession is granted to a borrower that would not have otherwise been considered. Most of the Company’s loan modifications involve a restructuring of loan terms prior to maturity to temporarily reduce the payment amount and/or to require only interest for a temporary period, usually up to six months.  These modifications generally do not meet the definition of a TDR because the modifications are considered to be an insignificant delay in payment.

The following table presents TDR’s as of December 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011:

December 31, 2012
 
TDR’s on
Non-accrual
   
Other TDR’s
   
Total TDR’s
 
                   
Residential  real estate
  $ 1,020     $ 240     $ 1,260  
Commercial real estate
                       
Owner occupied
    -       4,224       4,224  
Non owner occupied
    -       4,920       4,920  
Commercial and industrial
    2       2,525       2,527  
All other
    -       2,197       2,197  
Total
  $ 1,022     $ 14,106     $ 15,128  

December 31, 2011
 
TDR’s on
Non-accrual
   
Other TDR’s
   
Total TDR’s
 
                   
Residential  real estate
  $ 59     $ 1,371     $ 1,430  
Commercial real estate
                       
Owner occupied
    4,541       -       4,541  
Non owner occupied
    3,135       1,641       4,776  
Commercial and industrial
    42       897       939  
Consumer
    11       1       12  
All other
    -       2,041       2,041  
Total
  $ 7,788     $ 5,951     $ 13,739  

At December 31, 2012, $220 in specific reserves was allocated to loans that had restructured terms.  At December 31, 2011, $238 in specific reserves was allocated to loans that had restructured terms.

(continued)
 
128


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  5 – LOANS (Continued)

The following table presents TDR’s that occurred during the years ended December 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011.

   
Year ended December 31, 2012
   
Year ended December 31, 2011
 
Loan Class
 
Number of Loans
   
Pre-Modification Outstanding Recorded Investment
   
Post-Modification Outstanding Recorded Investment
   
Number of Loans
   
Pre-Modification Outstanding Recorded Investment
   
Post-Modification Outstanding Recorded Investment
 
                                     
Residential real estate
    -     $ -     $ -       1     $ 827     $ 827  
Commercial real estate
                                               
Owner occupied
    -       -       -       1       4,541       4,541  
Non-owner occupied
    1       519       519       2       4,689       4,689  
Commercial and industrial
    1       1,809       1,809       2       894       894  
All other
    1       190       190       1       2,041       2,041  
Total
    3     $ 2,518     $ 2,518       7     $ 12,992     $ 12,992  

The troubled debt restructurings described above increased the allowance for loan losses by $168 during the year ended December 31, 2012 and $178 during the year ended December 31, 2011.

During the years ended December 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, there were no TDR’s for which there was a payment default within twelve months following the modification.

A loan is considered to be in payment default once it is 90 days contractually past due under the modified terms.


(continued)
 
129


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  5 – LOANS (Continued)

Credit Quality Indicators:

The Company categorizes loans into risk categories based on relevant information about the ability of borrowers to service their debt such as:  current financial information, historical payment experience, credit documentation, public information, and current economic trends, among other factors.  The Company analyzes non-homogeneous loans, such as commercial, commercial real estate, multifamily residential and commercial purpose loans secured residential real estate, on a monthly basis.  For consumer loans, including consumer loans secured by residential real estate, the analysis involves monitoring the performing status of the loan.  At the time such loans become past due by 30 days or more, the Company evaluates the loan to determine if a change in risk category is warranted. The Company uses the following definitions for risk ratings:

Special Mention.  Loans classified as special mention have a potential weakness that deserves management's close attention. If left uncorrected, these potential weaknesses may result in deterioration of the repayment prospects for the loan or of the institution's credit position at some future date.

Substandard.  Loans classified as substandard are inadequately protected by the current net worth and paying capacity of the obligor or of the collateral pledged, if any. Loans so classified have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses that jeopardize the liquidation of the debt. They are characterized by the distinct possibility that the institution will sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected.

Doubtful.  Loans classified as doubtful have all the weaknesses inherent in those classified as substandard, with the added characteristic that the weaknesses make collection or liquidation in full, on the basis of currently existing facts, conditions, and values, highly questionable and improbable.

Loans not meeting the criteria above that are analyzed individually as part of the above described process are considered to be pass rated loans.


(continued)
 
130


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  5 – LOANS (Continued)

As of December 31, 2012, and based on the most recent analysis performed, the risk category of loans by class of loans is as follows:

Loan Class
 
Pass
   
Special Mention
   
Substandard
   
Doubtful
   
Total Loans
 
                               
Residential real estate
  $ 195,210     $ 10,115     $ 9,327     $ 91     $ 214,743  
Multifamily real estate
    19,747       1,912       7,014       -       28,673  
Commercial real estate:
                                       
Owner occupied
    74,529       8,994       8,379       -       91,902  
Non-owner occupied
    163,337       7,685       7,827       -       178,849  
Commercial and industrial
    70,180       2,739       11,508       3       84,430  
Consumer
    27,931       123       74       -       28,128  
All other
    64,009       814       12,386       691       77,900  
                                         
Total
  $ 614,943     $ 32,382     $ 56,515     $ 785     $ 704,625  


As of December 31, 2011, and based on the most recent analysis performed, the risk category of loans by class of loans is as follows:

Loan Class
 
Pass
   
Special Mention
   
Substandard
   
Doubtful
   
Total Loans
 
                               
Residential real estate
  $ 198,865     $ 8,105     $ 14,731     $ 55     $ 221,756  
Multifamily real estate
    16,798       2,218       15,319       -       34,335  
Commercial real estate:
                                       
Owner occupied
    79,753       5,377       16,600       134       101,864  
Non-owner occupied
    146,305       4,883       15,352       -       166,540  
Commercial and industrial
    58,158       8,675       10,095       32       76,960  
Consumer
    29,753       198       102       37       30,090  
All other
    43,485       1,052       14,064       777       59,378  
                                         
Total
  $ 573,117     $ 30,508     $ 86,263     $ 1,035     $ 690,923  



(continued)
 
131


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE 6 – PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT

Year-end premises and equipment were as follows:

   
2012
   
2011
 
Land and improvements
  $ 3,614     $ 3,614  
Buildings and leasehold improvements
    13,454       13,404  
Furniture and equipment
    8,974       8,433  
      26,042       25,451  
Less: accumulated depreciation
    (10,090 )     (9,096 )
    $ 15,952     $ 16,355  
                 

Operating Leases: The Company leases certain branch and other properties as well as some equipment under operating leases.  Some leases provide for periodic rate adjustments based on cost-of-living index changes. Rent expense, net of rental income, was $985, $1,162 and $1,131 for 2012, 2011, and 2010.  Rent commitments, before considering renewal options that generally are present, were as follows:

2013
  $ 952  
2014
    712  
2015
    686  
2016
    659  
2017 and thereafter
    740  
    $ 3,749  

(continued)
 
132


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  7 – GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS

The change in the balance for goodwill during the year is as follows:

   
2012
   
2011
   
2010
 
Beginning of year
  $ 29,875     $ 29,875     $ 28,724  
Acquired goodwill and other adjustments
    -       -       1,151  
Impairment
    -       -       -  
End of year
  $ 29,875     $ 29,875     $ 29,875  

Acquired intangible assets at December 31, 2012 and 2011 were as follows.

   
2012
   
2011
 
   
Gross Carrying
Amount
   
Accumulated Amortization
   
Gross Carrying
Amount
   
Accumulated Amortization
 
Core deposit intangible
  $ 5,355     $ (2,634 )   $ 5,355     $ (1,962 )

Aggregate intangible amortization expense was $672 for 2012, $792 for 2011, and $618 for 2010.

Estimated amortization expense for each of the next five years:

2013
    599  
2014
    575  
2015
    575  
2016
    457  
2017 and thereafter
    515  
    $ 2,721  


(continued)
 
133


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  8 – DEPOSITS

At December 31, 2012 the scheduled maturities of time deposits are as follows:

2013
  $ 221,014  
2014
    71,092  
2015
    27,527  
2016
    22,451  
2017 and thereafter
    11,226  
    $ 353,310  

Certain directors and executive officers of the Banks and companies in which they have beneficial ownership were deposit customers of the Banks during 2012 and 2011.  The balance of such deposits at December 31, 2012 and 2011 were approximately $10,689 and $12,238.


NOTE 9 – SECURITIES SOLD UNDER AGREEMENTS TO REPURCHASE

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase generally mature within one to ninety days from the transaction date.  Information concerning securities sold under agreements to repurchase is summarized as follows:

   
2012
   
2011
 
Year-end balance
  $ 26,102     $ 23,205  
Average balance during the year
  $ 20,944     $ 24,535  
Average interest rate during the year
    0.42 %     0.64 %
Maximum month-end balance during the year
  $ 26,102     $ 31,796  
Weighted average interest rate at year-end
    0.23 %     0.49 %
                 

(continued)
 
134


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE 10 – FEDERAL HOME LOAN BANK ADVANCES

The Banks own stock of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Cincinnati, Ohio (FHLB-Cin), and Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (FHLB-Pitt). This stock allows the Banks to borrow advances from the FHLB.

During 2012, the Banks paid-off all FHLB advances as they matured and there were no borrowings outstanding at December 31, 2012.  At December 31, 2011, advances from these Federal Home Loan Banks were as follows:

   
2011
 
Payments due at maturity in March 2012, fixed rate at 1.81%
  $ 10,042  
Payments due monthly with maturity in July 2012, fixed rate at 4.40%
    41  
Overnight borrowed funds
    -  
    $ 10,083  
         

Advances are secured by the FHLB stock and substantially all single family first mortgage loans of the participating Banks.  Advances may also be secured by specifically pledged investment securities.

(continued)
 
135


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE 11 – NOTES PAYABLE AND OTHER BORROWED FUNDS

On April 30, 2008, the Company executed and delivered to First Guaranty Bank of Hammond, Louisiana a Promissory Note and Business Loan Agreement dated April 30, 2008 for the principal amount of $11,550, bearing interest floating daily at the “Wall Street Journal” prime rate (the “Index”) minus 1.00% and requiring 59 monthly principal payments of $50 and one final payment of $8.6 million due at maturity on April 30, 2013.  On December 31, 2009, the Company executed and delivered to First Guaranty Bank a modification agreement whereby the interest rate would fixed at 3.96% through the remaining maturity of the note.  The note is secured by a pledge of 25% of Premier’s interest in Premier Bank (a wholly owned subsidiary) under Commercial Pledge Agreement modified on May 3, 2011.  The proceeds of this note were used to fund the $9,000 of cash needed to purchase Traders Bankshares, Inc. and to refinance the remaining $2,550 balance of Premier’s outstanding note with First Guaranty Bank dated January 31, 2006. At the time of origination, Premier’s chairman owned approximately 27.6% of the voting stock of First Guaranty Bank and was the chairman of its board of directors.  Premier’s board of directors reviewed the loan terms and authorized the Company to enter into the loan transaction.  The outstanding principal balance on the borrowing at December 31, 2012 was $7,449.

In conjunction with the modification agreement with First Guaranty Bank, the Company executed and delivered a Promissory Note and Business Loan Agreement dated December 31, 2009 establishing a line of credit in the principal amount of $1,000, bearing interest floating daily at the “Wall Street Journal” prime rate (initially 3.25%), with a floor of 4.50%.  Under the terms of the Promissory Note, the Company may request and receive advances from First Guaranty Bank from time to time, but the aggregate outstanding principal balance under the Promissory Note at any time shall not exceed $1,000, and the right to request and receive monies from First Guaranty Bank shall cease and terminate on June 30, 2011.  Since June 30, 2011, the line of credit has been extended to June 30, 2013 and the principal amount has been increased to $2,000.  Accrued interest on any amounts outstanding is payable monthly, and any amounts outstanding are payable on demand or on June 30, 2013.  The Promissory Note is also secured by the pledge of 25% of Premier’s interest in Premier Bank (a wholly owned subsidiary) under a Commercial Pledge Agreement modified on June 30, 2012.  At December 31, 2012, the Company had no outstanding debt on this line of credit from First Guaranty Bank.

On September 8, 2010, the Company executed and delivered to The Bankers’ Bank of Kentucky, Inc. of Frankfort, Kentucky (“Bankers’ Bank”) a Term Note and Business Loan Agreement dated September 8, 2010 in the principal amount of $11,300, bearing interest floating daily at the “JP Morgan Chase” prime rate with a minimum rate of 4.50% (initially 4.50%) and requiring 120 monthly principal payments of $94 plus interest.  The note is secured by a pledge of Premier’s 100% interest in Citizens Deposit Bank and Trust, Inc. (a wholly owned subsidiary) under a Stock Pledge and Security Agreement dated September 8, 2010.  The proceeds of this note were

(continued)
 
136


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE 11 – NOTES PAYABLE AND OTHER BORROWED FUNDS (Continued)

used to pay off the remaining $2,904 balance on Premier’s $6,500 Term Note with the Bankers’ Bank, pay off the $2,400 balance on Premier’s $4,300 Line of Credit with the Bankers’ Bank and provide a $6,000 capital injection into Citizens Deposit Bank and Trust (“Citizens”), Premier’s wholly owned subsidiary, to facilitate Citizens’ purchase of four branches from Integra Bank National Association.  The outstanding principal balance on the borrowing at December 31, 2012 was $8,600.

On September 7, 2012, Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc. (“Premier”) executed and delivered to The Bankers’ Bank of Kentucky, Inc. of Frankfort, Kentucky (“Bankers’ Bank”) a Promissory Note and Loan Agreement dated September 7, 2012 establishing a line of credit in the principal amount of $5,000, bearing interest floating daily at the “JP Morgan Chase” prime rate (initially 3.25%), with a floor of 4.50%.  Under the terms of the Promissory Note, Premier may request and receive advances from Bankers’ Bank from time to time, but the aggregate outstanding principal balance under the Promissory Note at any time shall not exceed $5,000, and the right to request and receive monies from Bankers’ Bank shall cease and terminate on September 7, 2013.  Accrued interest on amounts outstanding is payable quarterly, and any amounts outstanding are payable on demand or on September 7, 2013.  The Promissory Note is secured by a pledge of Premier’s 100% interest in Citizens Deposit Bank and Trust, Inc. (a wholly owned subsidiary) under a Stock Pledge and Security Agreement dated September 7, 2012.  This line of credit replaces a $5,000 line of credit Premier had with First Sentry Bank, of Huntington, West Virginia. At the time of the execution of these agreements, Premier had no outstanding debt to First Sentry Bank.  At December 31, 2011 Premier had no outstanding balance on this line of credit with Bankers’ Bank

Scheduled principal payments due on the bank borrowings subsequent to December 31, 2012 are as follows:

2013
  $ 8,579  
2014
    1,130  
2015
    1,130  
2016
    1,130  
2017
    1,130  
Thereafter
    2,950  
    $ 16,049  
         


(continued)
 
137


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE 12 INCOME TAXES

The components of the provision (benefit) for income taxes are as follows:

   
2012
   
2011
   
2010
 
Current
  $ 5,105     $ 376     $ 2,031  
Deferred
    568       4,099       2,041  
Change in valuation allowance
    -       (675 )     (255 )
Provision for income taxes
  $ 5,673     $ 3,800     $ 3,817  
                         

The Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities at December 31 are shown below.

   
2012
   
2011
 
Deferred tax assets
           
Allowance for loan losses
  $ 4,181     $ 3,497  
Purchase accounting adjustments
    3,745       5,470  
Net operating loss carryforward
    1,409       2,076  
Write-downs of other real estate owned
    748       424  
Taxable income on non-accrual loans
    1,955       841  
Security writedown
    250       253  
Accrued expenses
    131       157  
Other
    11       22  
Total deferred tax assets
    12,430       12,740  
                 
Deferred tax liabilities
               
Amortization of intangibles
  $ (4,405 )   $ (4,052 )
Depreciation
    (1,027 )     (1,009 )
Federal Home Loan Bank dividends
    (377 )     (382 )
Deferred loan fees
    (548 )     (450 )
Unrealized gain on investment securities
    (3,388 )     (2,583 )
Other
    (61 )     (267 )
Total deferred tax liabilities
    (9,806 )     (8,743 )
                 
Net deferred taxes
  $ 2,624     $ 3,997  
                 


(continued)
 
138


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE 12 INCOME TAXES (Continued)

At December 31, 2012 the Company had federal net operating loss carryforwards of $2,779 and various state net operating loss carryforwards of $9,311 which begin to expire in 2022.  The deductibility of these net operating losses is limited under IRC Sec. 382.

A valuation allowance for deferred tax assets is recorded when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of the deferred tax assets depends on the ability of the Company to generate sufficient taxable income of the appropriate character in the future and in the appropriate taxing jurisdictions. The Company considers the scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, and tax planning strategies in making this assessment.

Due to statutory law changes and a change in expectations of future taxable income, the Company reversed a valuation allowance against its District of Columbia net operating loss carryforward in 2011. Due to a change in expectations of future taxable income, the Company reversed a valuation allowance against its West Virginia net operating loss carryforward in 2010.

An analysis of the differences between the effective tax rates and the statutory U.S. federal income tax rate is as follows:

   
2012
   
2011
   
2010
 
U.S. federal income tax rate
  $ 5,439       34.0 %   $ 3,729       34.0 %   $ 4,416       34.0 %
Changes from the statutory rate
                                               
State income taxes, net
    266       1.7       208       1.9       239       1.9  
Tax-exempt interest income
    (173 )     (1.1 )     (194 )     (1.8 )     (209 )     (1.6 )
Non-deductible interest expense
related to carrying tax-exempt
interest earning assets
    12       0.1       8       0.1       11       0.1  
Non-deductible stock compensation expense
    62       0.4       36       0.3       18       0.1  
State deferred rate change, net
    110       0.7       1,012       9.2       (377 )     (2.9 )
Tax credits, net
    (49 )     (0.3 )     (49 )     (0.4 )     (49 )     (0.4 )
Change in valuation allowance, net
    -       -       (675 )     (6.1 )     (255 )     (2.0 )
Other
    6       0.0       (275 )     (2.5 )     23       0.2  
    $ 5,673       35.5 %   $ 3,800       34.7 %   $ 3,817       29.4 %
                                                 

(continued)
 
139


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE 12 INCOME TAXES (Continued)

Unrecognized Tax Benefits: The Company does not have any beginning or ending unrecognized tax benefits. The Company does not expect the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits to significantly increase in the next twelve months.  There were no interest and penalties recorded in the income statement or accrued for the year ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 related to unrecognized tax benefits.

The Company and its subsidiaries file a consolidated U.S. Corporation income tax return and a combined return in the state of West Virginia and the District of Columbia. The Company also files a corporate income tax return in the state of Kentucky and Maryland.  The Company is no longer subject to examination by taxing authorities for years before 2009.


NOTE 13 – EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

The Company has qualified profit sharing plans that cover substantially all employees. Contributions to the plans consist of a Company match and additional amounts at the discretion of the Company’s Board of Directors.  Total contributions to the plans were $379, $385 and $392 in 2012, 2011, and 2010.


NOTE 14 – STOCK COMPENSATION EXPENSE

In 2002, the Company registered 500,000 shares of its common stock to be reserved for stock based incentive programs (“the 2002 Plan”).  From time to time the Company grants stock options to its employees.  The Company estimates the fair value of the options at the time they are granted to employees and expenses that fair value over the vesting period of the option grant.

On March 21, 2012, 105,700 incentive stock options were granted out of the 2002 Employee Stock Option Plan at an exercise price of $7.47, the closing market price of Premier on the grant date.  These options vest in three equal annual installments ending on March 21, 2015.  On March 16, 2011, 102,000 incentive stock options were granted out of the 2002 Employee Stock Option Plan at an exercise price of $6.95, the closing market price of Premier on the grant date.  These options vest in three equal annual installments ending on March 16, 2014.  On March 17, 2010, 47,700 incentive stock options were granted out of the 2002 Plan at an exercise price of $8.90.  These options vest in three equal annual installments ending on March 17, 2013.


(continued)
 
140


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE 14 – STOCK COMPENSATION EXPENSE (Continued)

The fair value of the Company's employee stock options granted is estimated at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. This model requires the input of highly subjective assumptions, changes to which can materially affect the fair value estimate. Additionally, there may be other factors that would otherwise have a significant effect on the value of employee stock options granted but are not considered by the model. The assumptions used in the Black-Scholes option-pricing model are as follows

   
2012
   
2011
   
2010
 
Risk-free interest rate
    2.31 %     3.58 %     3.65 %
Expected option life (yrs)
    10.00       10.00       10.00  
Expected stock price volatility
    34.93 %     30.01 %     24.67 %
Dividend yield
    2.68 %     4.03 %     4.94 %
Weighted average fair value of options granted during the year
  $ 2.34     $ 1.63     $ 1.41  

The risk-free interest rate for the expected term of the option is based on the U.S. Treasury yield in effect at the time of the grant.  The expected option life was estimated since there has been little option exercise history.  The expected stock price volatility is based on historical volatilities of the Company’s common stock.  The dividend yield was estimated using historical dividends and dividend yields since at the time of the option grant the Company was restricted from paying dividends by its primary regulator.

Compensation expense of $181, $106 and $53 was recorded for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010, respectively.  Stock-based compensation expense is recognized ratably over the requisite service period for all awards. Unrecognized stock-based compensation expense related to stock options totaled $138 at December 31, 2012. This unrecognized expense is expected to be recognized over the next 26 months based on the vesting periods of the options.

During the year ending December 31, 2012, 25,550 options were exercised while no options were exercised during the years ending December 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010.


(continued)
 
141


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE 14 – STOCK COMPENSATION EXPENSE (Continued)

A summary of the Company’s stock option activity is as follows:

 
     ----------2012----------     ----------2011----------      ----------2010----------  
   
Options
   
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
   
Options
   
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
   
Options
   
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
 
Outstanding at beginning of year
    350,949     $ 9.69       255,649     $ 10.77       212,449     $ 11.18  
Grants
    105,700       7.47       102,000       6.95       47,700       8.90  
Exercises
    (25,550 )     7.52       -       -       -       -  
Forfeitures or expired
    (38,733 )     9.61       (6,700 )     9.10       (4,500 )     10.47  
Outstanding at year-end
    392,366     $ 9.24       350,949     $ 9.69       255,649     $ 10.77  
                                                 
Exercisable at year-end
    220,646     $ 10.68       206,727     $ 11.36       165,699     $ 11.89  
Weighted average remaining life
    6.6               6.4               6.3          
                                                 

Options outstanding at year-end are expected to fully vest.

Additional information regarding stock options outstanding and exercisable at December 31, 2012 is provided in the following table:

     
- - - - - - - - Outstanding - - - - - - - -
   
- - - - - - - - Currently Exercisable - - - - - - - -
 
Range of Exercise Prices
   
Number
   
Weighted Average Exercise Price
   
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
   
Number
   
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life
   
Weighted Average Exercise Price
   
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
 
                                             
$6.50 to $10.00       280,433     $ 7.48     $ 945       108,713       6.1     $ 7.62     $ 351  
$10.01 to $12.50       23,333       11.62       -       23,333       2.1       11.62       -  
$12.51 to $15.00       63,600       13.46       -       63,600       4.7       13.46       -  
$15.01 to $17.50       25,000       16.00       -       25,000       3.1       16.00       -  
Outstanding at Dec 31, 2012
      392,366       9.24     $ 945       220,646       4.9       10.68     $ 351  
                                                           


(continued)
 
142



PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE 15 – RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

During 2012, 2011 and 2010, the Company paid approximately $385, $562, and $508 for printing, supplies, statement rendering, furniture, and equipment to a company affiliated by common ownership.  The Company also paid another affiliate approximately $797, $863, and $889 in 2012, 2011 and 2010 to permit the Company’s employees to participate in that entity’s employee medical benefit plan.

During 2012, 2011 and 2010, the Company paid approximately $52, $52, and $52 to lease its headquarters facility at 2883 Fifth Avenue, Huntington, West Virginia from River City Properties, LLC, an entity 12.5% owned by the Company’s Chairman of the Board.


NOTE 16 – EARNINGS PER SHARE

A reconciliation of the numerators and denominators of the earnings per common share and earnings per common share assuming dilution computations for 2012, 2011 and 2010 is presented below:

   
2012
   
2011
   
2010
 
Basic earnings per share
                 
Income available to common stockholders
  $ 10,155     $ 5,947     $ 7,923  
Weighted average common shares outstanding
    7,940,892       7,937,143       7,937,143  
Earnings per share
  $ 1.28     $ 0.75     $ 1.00  
                         
Diluted earnings per share
                       
Income available to common stockholders
  $ 10,155     $ 5,947     $ 7,923  
Weighted average common shares outstanding
    7,940,892       7,937,143       7,937,143  
Add dilutive effects of potential additional common stock
    240,611       97,936       185,559  
Weighted average common and dilutive potential
Common shares outstanding
    8,181,503       8,035,079       8,122,702  
Earnings per share assuming dilution
  $ 1.24     $ 0.74     $ 0.98  
                         

Stock options for 183,699, 312,449, and 213,049 shares of common stock were not considered in computing diluted earnings per share for 2012, 2011, and 2010 because they were antidilutive.


(continued)
 
143


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  17 – FAIR VALUE

Fair value is the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. There are three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair values:

Level 1: Quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets that the entity has the ability to access as of the measurement date.
 
 
Level 2: Significant other observable inputs other than Level 1 prices such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data.

Level 3: Significant unobservable inputs that reflect a company’s own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability.

When possible, the Company looks to active and observable markets to price identical assets or liabilities. When identical assets and liabilities are not traded in active markets, the Company looks to observable market data for similar assets and liabilities. However, certain assets and liabilities are not traded in observable markets and the Company must use other valuation methods to develop a fair value.

Carrying amount is the estimated fair value for cash and due from banks, Federal funds sold, accrued interest receivable and payable, demand deposits, short-term debt, and variable rate loans or deposits that reprice frequently and fully.  It was not practicable to determine the fair value of Federal Home Loan Bank stock due to the restrictions placed on its transferability.  For fixed rate loans or deposits and for variable rate loans or deposits with infrequent repricing or repricing limits, fair value is based on discounted cash flows using current market rates applied to the estimated life and credit risk.  Fair values for impaired loans are estimated using discounted cash flow analysis or underlying collateral values.  Fair value of debt is based on current rates for similar financing. The fair value of commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit is not material.


(continued)
 
144


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  17 – FAIR VALUE (Continued)

The carrying amounts and estimated fair values of financial instruments at December 31, 2012 were as follows:

         
Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2012 Using
 
   
Carrying
Amount
   
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Financial assets
                             
Cash and due from banks
  $ 66,009     $ 66,009     $ -     $ -     $ 66,009  
Federal funds sold
    4,236       4,236       -       -       4,236  
Securities available for sale
    283,975       -       283,835       140       283,975  
Loans held for sale
    200       -       -       200       200  
Loans, net
    693,137       -       -       691,519       691,519  
Federal Home Loan Bank stock
    4,181       n/a       n/a       n/a       n/a  
Interest receivable
    3,403       -       827       2,576       3,403  
                                         
Financial liabilities
                                       
Deposits
  $ (930,583 )   $ (577,274 )   $ (356,730 )   $ -     $ (934,004 )
Securities sold under agreements
to repurchase
    (26,102 )     -       (26,102 )     -       (26,102 )
Other borrowed funds
    (16,049 )     -       (16,022 )     -       (16,022 )
Interest payable
    (489 )     (6 )     (483 )     -       (489 )
                                         

The carrying amount and estimated fair values of financial instruments at December 31, 2011 were as follows:

   
2011
 
   
Carrying
Amount
   
Fair
Value
 
Financial assets
           
Cash and due from banks
  $ 72,056     $ 72,056  
Federal funds sold
    10,832       10,832  
Securities available for sale
    278,479       278,479  
Loans held for sale
    70       70  
Loans, net
    681,128       675,616  
Federal Home Loan Bank  stock
    5,216       n/a  
Interest receivable
    3,497       3,497  
                 
Financial liabilities
               
Deposits
  $ (925,078 )   $ (929,796 )
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase
    (23,205 )     (23,205 )
Federal Home Loan Bank advances
    (10,083 )     (10,141 )
Other borrowed funds
    (18,130 )     (18,101 )
Interest payable
    (712 )     (712 )

(continued)
 
145


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  17 – FAIR VALUE (Continued)

Assets and Liabilities Measured on a Recurring Basis

The Company used the following methods and significant assumptions to estimate the fair value of each type of financial instrument measured on a recurring basis:

Investment Securities:  The fair values for investment securities are determined by quoted market prices, if available (Level 1). For securities where quoted prices are not available, fair values are calculated based on market prices of similar securities (Level 2). For securities where quoted prices or market prices of similar securities are not available, fair values are calculated using discounted cash flows or other market indicators (Level 3).

Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at December 31, 2012 are summarized below:

         
Fair Value Measurements at
 December 31, 2012 Using:
 
   
Carrying Value
   
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
 (Level 1)
   
Significant Other Observable Inputs
 (Level 2)
   
Significant Unobservable Inputs
 (Level 3)
 
Available for sale
                       
Mortgage-backed securities
                       
U. S. agency MBS - residential
  $ 37,100     $ -     $ 37,100     $ -  
U. S. agency CMO’s - residential
    212,847       -       212,847       -  
Total mortgage-backed securities of
government sponsored agencies
    249,947       -       249,947       -  
U. S. government sponsored
agency securities
    22,244       -       22,244       -  
Obligations of states and political
subdivisions
    7,860       -       7,720       140  
Other securities
    3,924       -       3,924       -  
Total available for sale
  $ 283,975     $ -     $ 283,835     $ 140  
                                 



(continued)
 
146


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  17 – FAIR VALUE (Continued)

Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at December 31, 2011 are summarized below:

         
Fair Value Measurements at
 December 31, 2011 Using:
 
   
Carrying Value
   
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
 (Level 1)
   
Significant Other Observable Inputs
 (Level 2)
   
Significant Unobservable Inputs
 (Level 3)
 
Available for sale
                       
Mortgage-backed securities
                       
U. S. agency MBS - residential
  $ 40,255     $ -     $ 40,255     $ -  
U. S. agency CMO’s
    205,738       -       205,738       -  
Total mortgage-backed securities of
government sponsored agencies
    245,993       -       245,993       -  
U. S. government sponsored
agency securities
    18,141       -       18,141       -  
Obligations of states and political
subdivisions
    9,650       -       9,510       140  
Other securities
    4,695       -       4,695       -  
Total available for sale
  $ 278,479     $ -     $ 278,339     $ 140  
                                 

The table below presents a reconciliation of all assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011:

   
Securities Available-for-sale
 
   
Year Ended
 Dec. 31, 2012
   
Year Ended
 Dec. 31, 2011
 
Balance of recurring Level 3 assets at beginning of period
  $ 140     $ 140  
Total gains or losses (realized/unrealized):
               
Included in earnings – realized
    -       -  
Included in earnings – unrealized
    -       -  
Included in other comprehensive income
    -       -  
Purchases, sales, issuances and settlements, net
    -       -  
Transfers in and/or out of Level 3
    -       -  
Balance of recurring Level 3 assets at year-end
  $ 140     $ 140  


(continued)
 
147


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  17 – FAIR VALUE (Continued)

Assets and Liabilities Measured on a Non-Recurring Basis

The Company used the following methods and significant assumptions to estimate the fair value of each type of financial instrument measured on a non-recurring basis:

Impaired Loans:  The fair value of impaired loans with specific allocations of the allowance for loan losses is generally based on recent collateral appraisals. Real estate appraisals may utilize a single valuation approach or a combination of approaches including comparable sales and the income approach. Adjustments are routinely made in the appraisal process by the appraisers to adjust for differences between the comparable sales and income data available. Such adjustments are typically significant and unique to each property and result in a Level 3 classification of the inputs for determining fair value.  Non-real estate collateral may be valued using an appraisal, net book value per the borrower's financial statements, or aging reports.  Management periodically evaluates the appraised collateral values and will discount the collateral's appraised value to account for a number of factors including but not limited to the cost of liquidating the collateral, the age of the appraisal, observable deterioration since the appraisal, management's expertise and knowledge of the client and client's business, or other factors unique to the collateral.  To the extent an adjusted collateral value is lower than the carrying value of an impaired loan, a specific allocation of the allowance for loan losses is assigned to the loan.

Other real estate owned (OREO):  The fair value of OREO is based on appraisals less cost to sell at the date of foreclosure.  These appraisals may utilize a single valuation approach or a combination of approaches including comparable sales and the income approach. Adjustments are routinely made in the appraisal process by the appraisers to adjust for differences between the comparable sales and income data available. Such adjustments are typically significant and result in a Level 3 classification of the inputs for determining fair value.  Management periodically evaluates the appraised values and will discount a property’s appraised value to account for a number of factors including but not limited to the cost of liquidating the collateral, the age of the appraisal, observable deterioration since the appraisal, or other factors unique to the property. To the extent an adjusted appraised value is lower than the carrying value of an OREO property, a direct charge to earnings is recorded as an OREO writedown.


(continued)
 
148


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  17 – FAIR VALUE (Continued)

Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis are summarized below:

         
Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2012 Using
 
   
Dec 31, 2012
   
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
(Level 1)
   
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)
   
Significant Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
 
Assets:
                       
Impaired loans:
                       
Residential Real Estate
  $ 2,739     $ -     $ -     $ 2,739  
Commercial Real Estate
                               
Owner Occupied
    512       -       -       512  
Non-owner Occupied
    427       -       -       427  
Commercial and Industrial
    8,300       -       -       8,300  
All Other
    4,465       -       -       4,465  
Total impaired loans
    16,443     $ -     $ -     $ 16,443  
                                 
Other real estate owned:
                               
Residential Real Estate
  $ 255     $ -     $ -     $ 255  
Commercial Real Estate
                               
Owner Occupied
    250       -       -       250  
Non-owner Occupied
    1,031       -       -       1,031  
All Other
    6,432       -       -       6,432  
Total OREO
  $ 7,968     $ -     $ -     $ 7,968  


(continued)
 
149


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  17 – FAIR VALUE (Continued)

         
Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2011 Using
 
   
Dec 31, 2011
   
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
(Level 1)
   
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)
   
Significant Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
 
Assets:
                       
Impaired loans:
                       
Residential Real Estate
  $ 4,297     $ -     $ -     $ 4,297  
Commercial Real Estate
                               
Owner Occupied
    1,168       -       -       1,168  
Non-owner Occupied
    1,269       -       -       1,269  
Commercial and Industrial
    1,038       -       -       1,038  
All Other
    4,386       -       -       4,389  
Total impaired loans
    12,158     $ -     $ -     $ 12,158  
                                 
Other real estate owned:
                               
Residential Real Estate
  $ 1,608     $ -     $ -     $ 1,608  
Commercial Real Estate
                               
Owner Occupied
    701       -       -       701  
Non-owner Occupied
    2,931       -       -       2,931  
Commercial and Industrial
    55       -       -       55  
All Other
    8,788       -       -       8,788  
Total OREO
  $ 14,083     $ -     $ -     $ 14,083  

Impaired loans, which are measured for impairment using the fair value of the collateral for collateral dependent loans, had a carrying amount of $20,285 at December 31, 2012 with a valuation allowance of $3,842 and a carrying amount of $15,205 at December 31, 2011 with a valuation allowance of $3,047, resulting in a provision for loan losses of $795 for the year ended December 31, 2012, compared to a $525 provision for loan losses for the year ended December 31, 2011.

Other real estate owned measured at fair value less costs to sell, had a net carrying amount of $7,968, which is made up of the outstanding balance of $9,945, net of a valuation allowance of $1,977 at December 31, 2012, resulting in write downs of $1,410 during the year ended December 31, 2012. At December 31, 2011, other real estate owned had a net carrying amount of $14,083, made up of the outstanding balance of $15,288 net of a $1,205 valuation allowance.


(continued)
 
150


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE  17 – FAIR VALUE (Continued)
 
 
   
December 31, 2012
 
Valuation Techniques
Unobservable Inputs
 
Range (Weighted Avg)
Impaired loans:
             
Residential Real Estate
  $ 2,739  
sales comparison
adjustment for differences between the comparable sales
    0.8%-76.8%(10.5%)
Commercial Real Estate
                 
Owner Occupied
    512  
sales comparison
adjustment for limited salability of specialized property
    40.0%-70.0%(44.1%)
Non-owner Occupied
    427  
sales comparison
adjustment for limited salability of specialized property
    59.0%-59.0%(59.0%)
Commercial and Industrial
    8,300  
sales comparison
adjustment for limited salability of specialized property
    0.0%-70.0%(44.3%)
All Other
    4,465  
sales comparison
adjustment for percentage of completion of construction
    64.0%-91.4%(64.8%)
Total impaired loans
    16,443            
                   
Other real estate owned:
                 
Residential Real Estate
  $ 255  
sales comparison
adjustment for differences between the comparable sales
    0.0%-62.3%(44.1%)
Commercial Real Estate
                 
Owner Occupied
    250  
sales comparison
adjustment for estimated realizable value
    0.0%-17.9%(7.2%)
Non-owner Occupied
    1,031  
sales comparison
adjustment for differences between the comparable sales
    82.7%-82.7%(82.7%)
All Other
    6,432  
sales comparison
adjustment for estimated realizable value
    4.7%-16.6%(12.7%)
Total OREO
  $ 7,968            



(continued)
 
151


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE 18 - FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS WITH OFF-BALANCE SHEET RISK

The Banks are parties to financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of their customers.  These financial instruments include standby letters of credit and commitments to extend credit in the form of unused lines of credit. The Banks use the same credit policies in making commitments and conditional obligations as they do for on-balance sheet instruments.  In addition, the Banks offer a service whereby deposit customers for a fee are permitted to overdraw their accounts up to a certain deminimus amount, also known as “courtesy overdraft protection”.  The aggregate unused portion of “overdraft protection” was $11,719 and $11,675 at December 31, 2012 and 2011.

At December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Banks had the following financial instruments whose approximate contract amounts represent credit risk:

   
2012
   
2011
 
Standby letters of credit
  $ 5,518     $ 7,479  
                 
Commitments to extend credit
               
Fixed
  $ 7,830     $ 14,916  
Variable
    43,256       43,695  
                 

Standby letters of credit represent conditional commitments issued by the Banks to guarantee the performance of a third party.  The credit risk involved in issuing these letters of credit is essentially the same as the risk involved in extending loans to customers.  Collateral held varies but primarily includes real estate and certificates of deposit.  Some letters of credit are unsecured.

Commitments to extend credit are agreements to lend to a customer as long as there is no violation of any condition established in the contract. Outstanding commitments are at current market rates.  Fixed rate loan commitments have interest rates ranging from 1.45% to 21.00%. Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require payment of a fee. The Banks evaluate each customer’s creditworthiness on a case-by-case basis. Since some of the commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements. Collateral held varies but may include accounts receivable, inventory, property and equipment, and income producing properties.


(continued)
 
152


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE 19 - LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

Legal proceedings involving the Company and its subsidiaries periodically arise in the ordinary course of business, including claims by debtors and their related interests against the Company’s subsidiaries following initial collection proceedings. These legal proceedings sometimes can involve claims for substantial damages.  At December 31, 2012 management is unaware of any legal proceedings for which the expected outcome would have a material adverse effect upon the consolidated financial statements of the Company.


NOTE 20 - STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

The Company’s principal source of funds for dividend payments to shareholders is dividends received from the subsidiary Banks.  Banking regulations limit the amount of dividends that may be paid without prior approval of regulatory agencies.  Under these regulations, the amount of dividends that may be paid in any calendar year is limited to the current year’s net profits, as defined, combined with the retained net profits of the preceding two years, subject to the capital requirements and additional restrictions as discussed below.  During 2013 the Banks could, without prior approval, declare dividends to Premier of approximately $2.1 million plus any 2013 net profits retained to the date of the dividend declaration.

The Company and the subsidiary Banks are subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by the 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 financial statements. Under capital adequacy guidelines and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, the Banks must meet specific guidelines that involve quantitative measures of their assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices.

These quantitative measures established by regulation to ensure capital adequacy require the Company and Banks to maintain minimum amounts and ratios (set forth in the following table) of Total and Tier I capital (as defined in the regulations) to risk-weighted assets (as defined), and of Tier I capital (as defined) to average assets (as defined).  Management believes, as of December 31, 2012 the Company and the Banks meet all quantitative capital adequacy requirements to which they are subject.


(continued)
 
153


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE 20 - STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY (Continued)

As of December 31, 2012, the most recent notification from each of the Banks’ primary Federal regulators categorized the subsidiary Banks as well capitalized under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action.  To be categorized as well capitalized, the Banks must maintain minimum Total risk-based, Tier I risk-based and Tier I leverage ratios as set forth in the following table.  There are no conditions or events since that notification that management believes have changed the Banks’ categories.

The dividend rights of holders of Premier’s common shares are also qualified and subject to the dividend rights of holders of Premier’s Series A Preferred Shares.  Due to restrictions placed on it by the Federal Reserve Board of Governors in conjunction with the July 29, 2010 Written Agreement between CB&T and the FRB, Premier deferred its November 15, 2010 and February 15, 2011 quarterly dividends on its Series A Preferred Shares.  On May 13, 2011, Premier was given permission by the FRB and the Board of Governors to pay the deferred November 15, 2010 and February 15, 2011 quarterly dividends on its Series A Preferred Shares in conjunction with the regularly scheduled May 15, 2011 dividend payment.  All subsequent quarterly dividends on Premier’s Series A Preferred Shares have been paid as scheduled.  On July 24, 2012 the FRB announced that it had terminated the July 29, 2010 Written Agreement.


(continued)
 
154


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE 20 - STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY (Continued)

The Company’s and the subsidiary Banks’ capital amounts and ratios as of December 31, 2012 are presented in the table below.
 
               
To Be Well Capitalized
 
         
For Capital
   
Under Prompt Corrective
 
   
Actual
   
Adequacy Purposes
   
Action Provisions
 
2012
 
Amount
   
Ratio
   
Amount
   
Ratio
   
Amount
   
Ratio
 
Total Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets):
                                   
Consolidated (1)
  $ 118,262       17.4 %   $ 54,399       8 %   $ 67,999       10 %
Premier Bank, Inc.
    90,977       19.3       37,659       8       47,073       10  
Citizens Deposit Bank
    35,794       17.2       16,610       8       20,762       10  
                                                 
Tier I Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets):
                                               
Consolidated (1)
  $ 109,725       16.1 %   $ 27,199       4 %   $ 40,799       6 %
Premier Bank, Inc.
    85,060       18.1       18,829       4       28,244       6  
Citizens Deposit Bank
    33,194       16.0       8,305       4       12,457       6  
                                                 
Tier I Capital (to Average Assets):
                                               
Consolidated (1)
  $ 109,725       10.0 %   $ 43,697       4 %   $ 54,621       5 %
Premier Bank, Inc.
    85,060       11.8       28,940       4       36,175       5  
Citizens Deposit Bank
    33,194       9.0       14,700       4       18,375       5  
                                                 
2011
                                               
Total Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets):
                                               
Consolidated (1)
  $ 118,147       17.2 %   $ 54,817       8 %   $ 68,522       10 %
Premier Bank, Inc.
    88,431       19.2       36,944       8       46,180       10  
Citizens Deposit Bank (2)
    34,623       15.9       17,460       8       21,825       10  
                                                 
Tier I Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets):
                                               
Consolidated (1)
  $ 109,567       16.0 %   $ 27,409       4 %   $ 41,113       6 %
Premier Bank, Inc.
    82,645       17.9       18,472       4       27,708       6  
Citizens Deposit Bank (2)
    31,892       14.6       8,730       4       13,095       6  
                                                 
Tier I Capital (to Average Assets):
                                               
Consolidated (1)
  $ 109,567       10.0 %   $ 43,799       4 %   $ 54,749       5 %
Premier Bank, Inc.
    82,645       11.3       29,249       4       36,558       5  
Citizens Deposit Bank (2)
    31,892       8.9       14,383       4       17,978       5  
                                                 
(1) Consolidated company is not subject to Prompt Corrective Action Provisions
 
(2) On August 17, 2012, Premier consummated the merger of three of its subsidiary banks by merging Ohio River Bank, Inc. and Farmers Deposit Bank – Eminence, Kentucky with and into Citizens Deposit Bank & Trust. December 31, 2011 amounts and ratios are on a pro forma combined basis.
 



(continued)
 
155


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE 21 - PARENT COMPANY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Condensed Balance Sheets
 
December 31
 
   
2012
   
2011
 
ASSETS
           
Cash
  $ 6,130     $ 7,795  
Investment in subsidiaries
    152,885       152,819  
Premises and equipment
    191       140  
Other assets
    1,957       1,981  
                 
Total assets
  $ 161,163     $ 162,735  
                 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
               
Other liabilities
  $ 818     $ 598  
Other borrowed funds
    16,049       18,130  
Total liabilities
    16,867       18,728  
                 
Stockholders’ equity
               
Preferred stock
    11,896       21,949  
Common stock
    72,849       71,571  
Retained earnings
    52,975       45,474  
Accumulated other comprehensive income
    6,576       5,013  
Total stockholders’ equity
    144,296       144,007  
                 
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
  $ 161,163     $ 162,735  
                 




(continued)
 
156


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE 21 - PARENT COMPANY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

Condensed Statement of Operations
 
Years Ended December 31
 
   
2012
   
2011
   
2010
 
Income
                 
Dividends from subsidiaries
  $ 13,915     $ 6,165     $ 5,860  
Interest and dividend income
    22       23       24  
Other income
    1,201       1,132       1,016  
Total income
    15,138       7,320       6,900  
                         
Expenses
                       
Interest expense
    754       852       698  
Salaries and employee benefits
    2,318       1,952       1,780  
Professional fees
    337       113       142  
Other expenses
    1,053       1,079       1,187  
Total expenses
    4,462       3,996       3,807  
                         
Income before income taxes
and equity in undistributed income of subsidiaries
    10,676       3,324       3,093  
                         
Income tax (benefit)
    (1,144 )     (1,034 )     (1,405 )
                         
Income before equity in undistributed income of subsidiaries
    11,820       4,358       4,498  
Equity in undistributed income (excess distributions) of subsidiaries
    (1,497 )     2,810       4,674  
Net income
  $ 10,323     $ 7,168     $ 9,172  
                         



(continued)
 
157


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE 21 - PARENT COMPANY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

Condensed Statement of Cash Flows
 
Years Ended December 31
 
   
2012
   
2011
   
2010
 
Cash flows from operating activities
                 
Net income
  $ 10,323     $ 7,168     $ 9,172  
Adjustments to reconcile net income to
net cash from operating activities
                       
Depreciation
    57       70       64  
Stock compensation expense
    181       106       53  
Gain from sales of assets
    -       -       (55 )
Dividends in excess of net income of subsidiaries
    1,497       -       -  
Equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries
    -       (2,810 )     (4,674 )
Change in other assets
    24       652       (199 )
Change in other liabilities
    220       (44 )     150  
Net cash from operating activities
    12,302       5,142       4,511  
                         
Cash flows from investing activities
                       
Cash from merger of subsidiaries
    -       391       -  
Additional investments in subsidiaries
    -       -       (7,375 )
Purchases of fixed assets, net of proceeds from asset sales
    (108 )     (81 )     246  
Net cash from investing activities
    (108 )     310       (7,129 )
                         
Cash flows from financing activities
                       
Cash dividends on preferred stock
    (984 )     (1,390 )     (835 )
Cash dividends paid to shareholders
    (1,749 )     -       (1,746 )
Repurchase of preferred stock
    (9,237 )     -       -  
Proceeds from stock option exercises
    192       -       -  
Proceeds from borrowings
    -       -       11,300  
Payments on other borrowed funds
    (2,081 )     (2,047 )     (7,150 )
Net cash from financing activities
    (13,859 )     (3,437 )     1,569  
                         
Net change in cash and cash equivalents
    (1,665 )     2,015       (1,049 )
                         
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
    7,795       5,780       6,829  
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
  $ 6,130     $ 7,795     $ 5,780  
                         


(continued)
 
158


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE 22 - QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)
 
                      Earnings Per Share  
    Interest Income     Net Interest Income     Net Income     Basic     Diluted  
2012
                             
First Quarter
  $ 14,216     $ 12,418     $ 2,830     $ 0.32     $ 0.31  
Second Quarter
    11,956       10,308       2,092       0.23       0.22  
Third Quarter
    12,580       11,017       2,411       0.38       0.37  
Fourth Quarter
    11,683       10,256       2,990       0.36       0.34  
                                         
2011
                                       
First Quarter
  $ 12,991     $ 10,749     $ 1,671     $ 0.17     $ 0.17  
Second Quarter
    13,508       11,372       1,029       0.09       0.09  
Third Quarter
    13,254       11,214       1,813       0.19       0.19  
Fourth Quarter
    12,782       10,873       2,655       0.30       0.30  

In 2012, interest income varied per quarter due to a random pattern of borrowers repaying commercial loans in full.  Due to weak loan demand, the proceeds from these loan payoffs were usually reinvested at significantly lower yields.  However, some of the loans paid off in full were either discounted at the time of their acquisition or were on the cost recovery method.  These loans, when paid in full, resulted in an increase in interest income as the purchase discount or any historical non-accrual interest paid was recognized immediately in income. The fluctuations in interest income resulted in similar fluctuations in net interest income and net income in 2012.  During 2012, net interest income was impacted positively by interest expense savings from continually lower market interest rates related to time deposits and transaction-based deposits.  Quarterly net income was generally higher in 2012 largely as a result of expenses incurred in 2011 to convert the Premier’s core operating systems and ATM network to a single provider as well as expense savings on data processing costs in 2012 under the new provider.  The increased net income in the fourth quarter of 2012 resulted from the gain on the sale of note to a third party.

Similar to 2012, in 2011, interest income varied per quarter due to a random pattern of borrowers repaying commercial loans in full that were either discounted at the time of their acquisition or were on the cost recovery method.  These loans, when paid in full, resulted in an increase in interest income as the purchase discount or any historical non-accrual interest paid was recognized immediately in income. The fluctuations in interest income resulted in similar fluctuations in net interest income and net income in 2011.  During 2011, net interest income was impacted positively by interest expense savings from continually lower market interest rates related to time deposits and transaction-based deposits.  Quarterly net income was generally lower in 2011 largely as a result of expenses incurred to convert the Premier’s core operating systems and ATM network to a single provider.  The increased net income in the fourth quarter of 2011 resulted from a decrease in net operating expenses primarily due to reduced FDIC insurance costs, higher gains on the disposition of other real estate owned, and lower conversion costs.


(continued)
 
159


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE 23- BRANCH PURCHASE

On September 10, 2010 Citizens Deposit Bank and Trust (“Citizens”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Premier completed its purchase of four banking offices from Integra Bank N.A. (“Integra Bank”).  The banking offices are located in Maysville and Mount Olivet, Kentucky and Ripley and Aberdeen, Ohio.  The purchase of the branches was a strategic move to increase Citizens’ presence in its current market area without a significant increase in its operating costs.  Citizens paid a $2.4 million deposit premium for the deposit liabilities it assumed and also acquired $17.4 million of branch related loans as well as $33.0 million of additional commercial real estate loans and $10.0 million of other commercial loans selected by Citizens originated from other Integra offices.  The four banking offices were also included in the branch purchase.  The purchase resulted in approximately $1.2 million of goodwill and $2.0 million in core deposit intangible.  The core deposit intangible will be amortized using an accelerated method.  The goodwill recorded from the branch purchase is anticipated to be fully tax deductible over a period of approximately 15 years.

Net assets acquired via the branch purchase is shown in the table below:

Cash and due from banks
  $ 8,939  
Loans, net
    60,372  
Goodwill and other intangible assets
    3,159  
Other assets
    1,787  
Total assets acquired
    74,257  
         
Deposits
    (74,137 )
Other liabilities
    (120 )
Total liabilities assumed
    (74,257 )
Net assets acquired
  $ 0  
         

The results of operations of four branches are included in Premier’s consolidated statements of income beginning as of the September 10, 2010 acquisition date.  Due to the structure of the branch purchase, separate historical branch operational results were unavailable in order to provide full year pro forma condensed income statements as if the branches had been acquired at the beginning of 2010.

(continued)
 
160


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE 24 – PREFERRED STOCK

On October 2, 2009, as part of the Troubled Asset Relief Program (“TARP”) Capital Purchase Program, the Company entered into a Letter Agreement and Securities Purchase Agreement (collectively, the “Purchase Agreement”) with the United States Department of the Treasury (“U.S. Treasury”).  Pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, the Company issued and sold to the U.S. Treasury 22,252 shares of Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series A, no par value, with a liquidation preference of one thousand dollars per share (the “Series A Preferred Stock”) and a ten-year warrant (the “Warrant”) to purchase 628,588 shares of the Company’s common stock, no par value, at an exercise price of $5.31 per share, for an aggregate purchase price of $22,252 in cash.

Under standardized TARP Capital Purchase Program terms, cumulative dividends on the Series A Preferred Stock will accrue on the liquidation preference at a rate of 5% per annum until November 14, 2014, and at a rate of 9% per annum thereafter.  These dividends will be paid only if, as and when declared by Premier’s Board of Directors.  The Series A Preferred Stock has no maturity date and ranks senior to the Company’s common stock with respect to the payment of dividends and distributions and amounts payable upon liquidation, dissolution and winding up of Premier.  Subject to the approval of the Appropriate Federal Banking Agency (as defined in the Securities Purchase Agreement, which for Premier is the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System), the Series A Preferred Stock is redeemable at the option of Premier at 100% of its liquidation preference plus accrued and unpaid dividends, without penalty, delay or the need to raise additional replacement capital.

On July 9, 2012, the U.S. Treasury announced its intent to sell its investment in Premier’s Series A Preferred Stock along with similar investments the U.S. Treasury had made in 11 other financial institutions, principally to qualified institutional buyers.  Using a modified Dutch auction methodology that establishes a market price by allowing investors to submit bids at specified increments during the period of July 23, 2012 through July 26, 2012, the U.S. Treasury auctioned all of Premier’s 22,252 Series A Preferred Stock.  Premier sought and obtained regulatory permission to participate in the auction.  Premier successfully bid to repurchase 10,252 shares of the 22,252 outstanding shares.  At the auction’s closing price of $901.03 per share, Premier was able to preserve approximately $1.0 million of capital versus redeeming the Series A Preferred Stock at the liquidation preference of $1,000 per share.  The remaining 12,000 shares are held by private investors.

The Series A Preferred Stock is non-voting, but has class voting rights on (i) any authorization or issuance of shares ranking senior to the Series A Preferred Stock; (ii) any amendment to the rights of the Series A Preferred Stock; or (iii) any merger, consolidation, share exchange, reclassification or similar transaction which would adversely affect the rights of the Series A Preferred Stock.  In the event that the cumulative dividends described above are not paid in full for an aggregate of

(continued)
 
161


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


NOTE 24 - PREFERRED STOCK (Continued)

six dividend periods or more, whether or not consecutive, the authorized number of directors of Premier would automatically be increased by two and the holders of the Series A Preferred Stock would have the right to elect two directors.  The right to elect directors would end when dividends have been paid in full for four consecutive dividend periods.  As previously disclosed, Premier has already deferred two dividend payments on the Series A Preferred Stock as a result of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors’ refusal to initially approve the November 15, 2010 and February 15, 2011 dividends under the Written Agreement dated July 29, 2010, among CB&T, a wholly owned subsidiary of Premier; the FRB, and the Virginia Bureau. These deferred dividends were paid along with the regularly scheduled May 15, 2011 Series A Preferred Stock quarterly dividend.  All subsequent quarterly dividends on Premier’s Series A Preferred Shares have been paid as scheduled.  On July 24, 2012 the FRB announced that it had terminated the July 29, 2010 Written Agreement.

The U.S. Treasury has agreed not to exercise voting power with respect to any common stock issued to it upon exercise of the Warrant.  The common stock will be issued from authorized but unissued common stock and thus will dilute the interests of existing Premier common shareholders.  As of December 31, 2012, the Warrant has not yet been exercised.  Since the Series A Preferred Stock was disposed of by the U.S. Treasury, Premier has the right to repurchase the Warrant at its appraised value.  If Premier chooses not to repurchase the Warrant, the U.S. Treasury may liquidate the Warrant at its current market price.

Pursuant to the terms of the Purchase Agreement, the ability of the Company to declare or pay dividends or distributions on shares of its common stock will be subject to restrictions.

The Purchase Agreement also subjected the Company to certain of the executive compensation limitations included in the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 (the “EESA”). In this connection, as a condition to the closing of the transaction, the Company’s Senior Executive Officers (as defined in the Purchase Agreement) (the “Senior Executive Officers”), (i) voluntarily waived any claim against the U.S. Treasury or the Company for any changes to such officer’s compensation or benefits that are required to comply with the regulation issued by the U.S. Treasury under the TARP Capital Purchase Program and acknowledged that the regulation may require modification of the compensation, bonus, incentive and other benefit plans, arrangements and policies and agreements as they relate to the period the U.S. Treasury owns the Preferred Stock of the Company; and (ii) entered into a letter with the Company amending the Benefit Plans with respect to such Senior Executive Officers as may be necessary, during the period that the Treasury owns the Preferred Stock of the Company, as necessary to comply with Section 111(b) of the EESA.  These limitations terminated upon completion of the U.S. Treasury’s auction of the Series A Preferred Stock on August 10, 2012.

 
 
162



PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012

 
Item 9    Changes In and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
 
       There have been no changes in or disagreements with accountants on accounting or financial disclosure matters.

Item 9A.  Controls and Procedures
 
      A.          Disclosure Controls & Procedures
 
Premier management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 Rule 13a-15c as of the end of the period covered by this annual report. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the disclosure controls and procedures are effective in ensuring that all material information required to be filed in this annual report has been made known to them in a timely fashion.
 
 
      B.          Management's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Management of the Company is responsible for establishing and maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance to the Company’s management and board of directors regarding the preparation and fair presentation of published financial statements.
 
Management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012. In making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control — Integrated Framework. Based on our assessment, we believe that, as of December 31, 2012, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting is effective based on those criteria.
 
This annual report does not include an attestation report of the Company’s registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting.  Management’s report was not subject to attestation by the Company’s registered public accounting firm pursuant to rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission that permit the Company to provide only management’s report in this annual report.
 

 
 
163


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


     
/s/ Robert W. Walker
 
/s/ Brien M. Chase
Robert W. Walker, President and
 
Brien M. Chase, Senior Vice President
Chief Executive Officer
 
and Chief Financial Officer
     
Date:  March 28, 2013
 
Date:  March 28, 2013
     

C.         Changes in Internal Controls over Financial Reporting
 
There were no changes in internal controls over financial reporting during the fourth fiscal quarter that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect Premier's internal controls over financial reporting.

D.         Inherent Limitations on Internal Control
 
"Internal controls" are procedures, which are designed with the objective of providing reasonable assurance that (1) transactions are properly authorized; (2) assets are safeguarded against unauthorized or improper use; and (3) transactions are properly recorded and reported, all so as to permit the preparation of reports and financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. However, a control system, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met. Further, the design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their cost. Because of the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within a company have been detected. These inherent limitations include the realities that judgments in decision-making can be faulty, and that breakdowns can occur because of simple error or mistake. The design of any system of controls is also based, in part, upon certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals under all potential future conditions. Over time, a control may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. Because of the inherent limitations in a cost-effective control system, misstatements due to error or fraud may occur and not be detected. Finally, controls can be circumvented by the individual acts of some persons, by collusion of two or more people, or by management override of the control.

Item 9B.  Other Information

None


 
 
164


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


PART III

Item 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14.  Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance; Executive Compensation; Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters; Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence; and Principal Accountant Fees and Services
 
The information required by these Items is omitted because the Company is filing a definitive proxy statement pursuant to Regulation 14A not later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by this report which includes the required information. The required information contained in the Company's proxy statement is incorporated herein by reference.



 
 
165


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


PART IV

Item 15.  Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

(a)           The following documents are filed as part of this report:

1.           Financial Statements:

2.           Financial Statement Schedules:

No financial statement schedules have been included as part of this report because they are either not required or the information is otherwise included.

3.           List of Exhibits:

The following is a list of exhibits required by Item 601 of Regulation S-K and by paragraph (c) of this Item 14.

Exhibit
Number
 
Description of Document
2.1  
Definitive Merger Agreement between Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc. and Citizens First Bank, Inc. dated October 24, 2007, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to form 8-K filed on October 25, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference.
2.2  
Definitive Merger Agreement between Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc. and Traders Bankshares, Inc. dated November 27, 2007, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to form 8-K filed on November 28, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference.
2.3  
Definitive Merger Agreement between Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc. and Abigail Adams National Bancorp, Inc. dated December 30, 2008, filed as Exhibit 2.1 to form 8-K filed on January 2, 2009 is incorporated herein by reference.
2.4  
Branch Purchase Agreement between Integra Bank National Association and Citizens Deposit Bank and Trust dated April 29, 2010, filed as Exhibit 2.1 to Form 8-K filed on April 30, 2010 is incorporated herein by reference.
2.5  
Loan Purchase Agreement between Integra Bank National Association and Citizens Deposit Bank and Trust dated April 29, 2010, filed as Exhibit 2.2 to Form 8-K filed on April 30, 2010 is incorporated herein by reference.
3.1(a)  
Form of Articles of Incorporation of registrant (included as Exhibit 3.1 to registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-1, Registration No. 333-1702, filed on February 28, 1996 with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).

 
 
166


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012
 
 
Exhibit
Number
   
Description of Document
3.1(b)  
Form of Articles of Amendment to Articles of Incorporation effective March 15, 1996 re: amendment to Article IV (included as Exhibit 3.2 to registrant’s Amendment No. 1 to Registration Statement on Form S-1, Registration No. 333-1702, filed on March 25, 1996 with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference.
3.1(c)  
Articles of Amendment to Articles of Incorporation effective September 3, 2009 re: increase in authorized common shares (included as Exhibit 3.1 to Form 8-K filed on September 9, 2009) is incorporated herein by reference.
3.1(d)  
Articles of Amendment to Articles of Incorporation effective September 29, 2009 evidencing adoption of amendments by the Board of Directors of registrant to Article IV of Articles of Incorporation to establish express terms of Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Shares, Series A, each without par value, of registrant (included as Exhibit 3.1(i) to Form 8-K filed on October 2, 2009) is incorporated herein by reference.
3.1(e)  
Articles of Incorporation of registrant (reflecting amendments through September 29, 2009) [For SEC reporting compliance purposes only – not filed with Kentucky Secretary of State], filed as Exhibit 3.1(e) to Form 10-K filed on March 30, 2010 is incorporated herein by reference.
3.2  
Bylaws of registrant, as amended through September 23, 2009 (filed as Exhibit 3.1(ii)) to Form 8-K filed September 23, 2009 is incorporated herein by reference.
4.1  
Letter Agreement, dated October 2, 2009, including Securities Purchase Agreement Standard Terms attached thereto as Exhibit A, between registrant and the United States Department of the Treasury (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K filed October 7, 2009) is incorporated herein by reference.  [NOTE:  Annex A to Securities Purchase Agreement is not included herewith; filed as Exhibit 3.1(i) to Current Report on Form 8-K filed by registrant on October 2, 2009 and incorporated herein by reference.]
4.2  
Warrant to purchase 628,588 Shares of Common Stock (common shares) of registrant issued to the United States Department of the Treasury on October 2, 2009 (filed as Exhibit 4.1 to Form 8-K filed October 7, 2009) is incorporated herein by reference.
*** 10.1        
Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc.'s 2002 Employee Stock Ownership Incentive Plan, filed as Annex A to definitive proxy statement dated May 17, 2002, filed on April 30, 2002 with the Commission, is incorporated herein by reference.
*** 10.2        
Form of Stock Option Agreement pursuant to 2002 Employee Stock Ownership Incentive Plan, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to form 8-K filed January 24, 2005, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.3  
Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc. written agreement with the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland dated January 29, 2003, filed as Exhibit 10.4 to form 10-K filed on March 27, 2003, is incorporated herein by reference.

 
 
167


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


Exhibit
Number
 
Description of Document
10.4  
Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc. contract with Fiserv Solutions, Inc. dated December 20, 2004, filed as Exhibit 10 to form 8-K filed December 23, 2004, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.5  
Loan Agreement between Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc. and The Kentucky Bankers’ Bank, Inc. filed as Exhibit 10.1 to form 8-K filed on November 10, 2006, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.6  
Term Note to The Kentucky Bankers’ Bank, Inc. filed as Exhibit 10.2 to form 8-K filed on November 10, 2006, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.7  
Promissory Note to The Kentucky Bankers’ Bank, Inc. filed as Exhibit 10.3 to form 8-K filed on November 10, 2006, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.8  
Stock Pledge and Security Agreement between Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc. and The Kentucky Bankers’ Bank, Inc. filed as Exhibit 10.4 to form 8-K filed on November 10, 2006, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.9  
Loan Agreement between Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc. and First Guaranty Bank, Hammond, Louisiana, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to form 8-K filed May 1, 2008, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.10  
Promissory Note to First Guaranty Bank, Hammond, Louisiana, filed as Exhibit 10.2 to form 8-K filed May 1, 2008, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.11  
Collateral Agreement with First Guaranty Bank, Hammond Louisiana, filed as Exhibit 10.8 to form 10-K filed March 30, 2006, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.12  
Loan Modification and Extension Agreement with The Kentucky Bankers’ Bank, Inc. filed as Exhibit 10.1 to form 8-K filed November 10, 2008, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.13  
Loan Modification and Extension Agreement with The Kentucky Bankers’ Bank, Inc. filed as Exhibit 10.1 to form 8-K filed December 23, 2008, is incorporated herein by reference.
*** 10.14       
Letter Agreement between registrant and Robert W. Walker, executed on September 22, 2009 and effective October 2, 2009 (filed as Exhibit 10.2(a) to Form 8-K filed October 7, 2009) is incorporated herein by reference.
*** 10.15       
Letter Agreement between registrant and Brien M. Chase, executed on September 22, 2009 and effective October 2, 2009 (filed as Exhibit 10.2(b) to Form 8-K filed October 7, 2009) is incorporated herein by reference.
*** 10.16       
Letter Agreement between registrant and Dennis J. Klingensmith, executed on September 25, 2009 and effective October 2, 2009 (filed as Exhibit 10.2(c) to Form 8-K filed October 7, 2009) is incorporated herein by reference.
*** 10.17       
Letter Agreement between registrant and Michael R. Mineer, executed on September 25, 2009 and effective October 2, 2009 (filed as Exhibit 10.2(d) to Form 8-K filed October 7, 2009) is incorporated herein by reference.

 
 
168


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


Exhibit
Number
 
Description of Document
*** 10.18       
Letter Agreement between registrant and Scot Kelley, executed on April 27, 2010, (filed as Exhibit 10.18 to Form 10-K filed March 30, 2012) is incorporated herein by reference.
*** 10.19       
Letter Agreement between registrant and Katrina Whitt, executed on April 27, 2010, (filed as Exhibit 10.18 to Form 10-K filed March 30, 2012) is incorporated herein by reference.
10.20  
Loan Modification and Extension Agreement with The Kentucky Bankers’ Bank, Inc. filed as Exhibit 10.1 to form 8-K filed December 15, 2009, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.21  
Promissory Note to The Kentucky Bankers’ Bank, Inc. filed as Exhibit 10.2 to form 8-K filed on December 15, 2009, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.22  
Change in Terms Agreement with First Guaranty Bank, Hammond, Louisiana, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to form 8-K filed January 4, 2010, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.23  
Loan Agreement between Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc. and First Sentry Bank, Huntington, West Virginia, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to form 8-K filed January 6, 2010, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.24  
Promissory Note to First Sentry Bank filed as Exhibit 10.2 to form 8-K filed January 6, 2010, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.25  
Commercial Pledge Agreement between Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc. and First Sentry Bank, Huntington, West Virginia filed as Exhibit 10.3 to form 8-K filed January 6, 2010, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.26  
Loan Agreement between Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc. and First Guaranty Bank, Hammond, Louisiana, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to form 8-K filed January 7, 2010, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.27  
Promissory Note to First Guaranty Bank, Hammond, Louisiana, filed as Exhibit 10.2 to form 8-K filed January 7, 2010, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.28  
Commercial Pledge Agreement between Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc. and First Guaranty Bank, Hammond, Louisiana filed as Exhibit 10.3 to form 8-K filed January 7, 2010, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.29  
Written Agreement by and among Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc., Huntington, West Virginia, Abigail Adams National Bancorp, Inc., Washington, D.C., Consolidated Bank and Trust Company, Richmond, Virginia, the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, Richmond, Virginia, and State Corporation Commission Bureau of Financial Institutions, Richmond, Virginia dated July 29, 2010, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K filed on July 30, 2010, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.30  
Loan Agreement between Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc. and The Kentucky Bankers’ Bank, Inc. filed as Exhibit 10.1 to form 8-K filed on September 9, 2010, is incorporated herein by reference.

 
 
169


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


Exhibit
Number
 
Description of Document
10.31    Term Note to The Kentucky Bankers’ Bank, Inc. filed as Exhibit 10.2 to form 8-K filed on September 9, 2010, is incorporated herein by reference
10.32  
Stock Pledge and Security Agreement between Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc. and The Kentucky Bankers’ Bank, Inc. filed as Exhibit 10.3 to form 8-K filed on September 9, 2010, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.33  
Change in Terms Agreement with First Guaranty Bank, Hammond, Louisiana dated May 3, 2011.
10.34  
Loan Agreement between Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc. and First Guaranty Bank, Hammond, Louisiana, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to form 8-K filed July 1, 2011, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.35  
Promissory Note to First Guaranty Bank, Hammond, Louisiana, filed as Exhibit 10.2 to form 8-K filed July 1, 2011, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.36  
Commercial Pledge Agreement between Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc. and First Guaranty Bank, Hammond, Louisiana filed as Exhibit 10.3 to form 8-K filed July 1, 2011, is incorporated herein by reference.
*** 10.37       
Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc.'s 2012 Long Term Incentive Plan, filed as Annex A to definitive proxy statement dated May 17, 2012, filed on April 27, 2012 with the Commission, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.38  
Loan Agreement between Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc. and First Guaranty Bank, Hammond, Louisiana, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to form 8-K filed June 29, 2012, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.39  
Promissory Note to First Guaranty Bank, Hammond, Louisiana, filed as Exhibit 10.2 to form 8-K filed June 29, 2012, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.40  
Commercial Pledge Agreement between Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc. and First Guaranty Bank, Hammond, Louisiana filed as Exhibit 10.3 to form 8-K filed June 29, 2012, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.41  
Loan Agreement between Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc. and The Kentucky Bankers’ Bank, Inc. filed as Exhibit 10.1 to form 8-K filed on September 10, 2012, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.42  
Promissory Note to The Kentucky Bankers’ Bank, Inc. filed as Exhibit 10.2 to form    8-K filed on September 10, 2012, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.43  
Stock Pledge and Security Agreement between Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc. and The Kentucky Bankers’ Bank, Inc. filed as Exhibit 10.3 to form 8-K filed on September 10, 2012, is incorporated herein by reference.
*** 10.44        
Form of Stock Option Agreement pursuant to 2012 Long Term Incentive Plan, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to form 8-K filed March 21, 2013, is incorporated herein by reference.
14.1  
Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc. Code of Ethics for the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer, filed as Exhibit 14.1 to form 10-K filed on April 14, 2004, is incorporated herein by reference.

 
 
170


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


Exhibit
Number
 
Description of Document
14.2    Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc. Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, filed as Exhibit 14.2 to form 10-K filed on April 14, 2004, is incorporated herein by reference
21  
23  
31.1  
31.2  
32  
99.1  
99.2  
     
*** Denotes executive compensation plans and arrangements.

 
 
171


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012


SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 
PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
   
 
By:  /s/ Robert W. Walker, President
 
Robert W. Walker, President
   
 
Date:  March 28, 2013
   


 
 
172


PREMIER FINANCIAL BANCORP, INC.
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2012
 
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

/s/ Robert W. Walker
Principal Executive and Director
March 28, 2013
Robert W. Walker
   
     
/s/ Brien M. Chase
Principal Financial and Accounting
March 28, 2013
Brien M. Chase
   Officer
 
     
/s/ Toney K. Adkins
Director
March 20, 2013
Toney K. Adkins
   
     
/s/ Harry M. Hatfield
Director
March 20, 2013
Harry M. Hatfield
   
     
/s/ Lloyd G. Jackson II
Director
March 20, 2013
Lloyd G. Jackson II
   
     
/s/ Keith F. Molihan
Director
March 20, 2013
Keith F. Molihan
   
     
/s/ Marshall T. Reynolds
Chairman of the Board
March 28, 2013
Marshall T. Reynolds
   
     
/s/ Neal Scaggs
Director
March 20, 2013
Neal Scaggs
   
     
 
Director
 
Thomas W. Wright
   
     
 
 
 
 
 
173