Form 10-K
Table of Contents

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 


FORM 10-K

 


Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d)

of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2006

Commission File Number 2-83157

 


SOUTHEASTERN BANKING CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 


 

Georgia   58-1423423

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

 

(IRS Employer

Identification No.)

P. O. Box 455, 1010 Northway, Darien, Georgia 31305

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

(912) 437-4141

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: None

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: Common Stock, par value $1.25 per share

 


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

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Act.     Yes  ¨     No  x

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

Indicate by check mark 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 Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer  ¨     Accelerated filer  ¨     Non-accelerated filer  x

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).     Yes  ¨     No  x

The aggregate market value of common stock held by non-affiliates on June 30, 2006 was approximately $58,833,000 (based on a per share price of $27.70 on over-the-counter trades executed by principal market-makers).

As of March 20, 2007, the Registrant had 3,209,600 shares of common stock outstanding.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Portions of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1990 are incorporated by reference in Part IV, Item 15.

Portions of the Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on June 13, 2007 are incorporated by reference in Part III.

 



Table of Contents

Table of Contents

 

           Page
Part I      
Item 1.    Business    3
Item 1A.    Risk Factors    5
Item 1B.    Unresolved Staff Comments    9
Item 2.    Properties    9
Item 3.    Legal Proceedings    10
Item 4.    Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders    10
Part II      
Item 5.    Market for the Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Shareholder Matters, and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities    11
Item 6    Selected Consolidated Financial Data    13
Item 7.    Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    14
Item 7A.    Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk    33
Item 8.    Financial Statements and Supplementary Data    33
Item 9.    Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure    54
Item 9A.    Controls and Procedures    54
Item 9B.    Other Information    54
Part III      
Item 10.    Directors, Executive Officers, and Corporate Governance    54
Item 11.    Executive Compensation    54
Item 12.    Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Shareholder Matters    55
Item 13.    Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence    55
Item 14.    Principal Accounting Fees and Services    55
Part IV      
Item 15.    Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules    56
Signatures       57

 

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PART I

 

Item 1. Business.

1. History and Organization. Southeastern Banking Corporation (the “Company”) and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Southeastern Bank (“SEB”), provide a full line of commercial and retail services to meet the financial needs of individual, corporate, and government customers in southeast Georgia and northeast Florida. The Company’s corporate offices are located at 1010 Northway Street, Darien, Georgia.

The Company was formed in 1980 to serve as the parent holding company of its then sole subsidiary bank, The Citizens Bank, Folkston, Georgia, which later changed its name to Southeastern Bank. In 1983, the Company acquired The Darien Bank, Darien, Georgia. Since 1983, the Company has acquired three additional financial institutions in the southeast Georgia market. These acquisitions were consummated by merging the acquired bank with SEB; the acquired banks were subsequently converted to branches of SEB. In this manner, the Company acquired The Camden County State Bank, Woodbine, Georgia, in 1984; the Jeff Davis Bank, Hazlehurst, Georgia, in 1986; and the Nicholls State Bank, Nicholls, Georgia, in 1988. In 1990, SEB merged with and into The Darien Bank, with The Darien Bank being the surviving bank in the merger operating under its 1888 Charter. Immediately, The Darien Bank changed its name to “Southeastern Bank.” SEB is a state banking association incorporated under the laws of the State of Georgia.

In 1991, the Company acquired the Folkston, St. Marys, and Douglas, Georgia, offices of First Georgia Savings Bank, a savings bank in Brunswick, Georgia. Offices located in St. Marys and Douglas are now operating as branches of SEB, but the First Georgia office in Folkston was closed and merged into the existing Folkston branch. In 1993, the Company acquired the Folkston and St. Marys offices of Bank South, N.A., Atlanta, Georgia. Both of the acquired offices were closed and merged into existing offices of the Company.

In 1996, the Company acquired the Callahan, Hilliard, and Yulee offices of Compass Bank in northeast Florida’s Nassau County. Geographically, Nassau County borders Camden and Charlton Counties in southeast Georgia where the Company has other offices. In 2002, the Company acquired the Richmond Hill office of Valdosta, Georgia-based Park Avenue Bank. Richmond Hill is located approximately ten miles outside the greater Savannah area. All of these facilities are operated as branches of SEB.

In February 2003, the Company opened a loan production office in Brunswick, Georgia. In November 2004, a full service banking facility was opened at 755 Scranton Road in Brunswick, and the loan production office closed. In January 2007, the Company opened a new branch at 601 Palisade Drive in the fast-growing Southport area of Brunswick.

SBC Financial Services, the Company’s subsidiary which formerly offered insurance agent and investment brokerage services, is now inactive. Insurance and investment services are now being offered directly by SEB.

2. Business. SEB, the Company’s commercial bank subsidiary, offers a wide range of services to meet the financial needs of its customer base through its branch and ATM network in southeast Georgia and northeast Florida. SEB’s primary business comprises traditional deposit and credit services as well as official check services, wire transfers, and safe deposit box rentals. Deposit services offered include time certificates plus NOW, money market, savings, and individual retirement accounts. Credit services include commercial and installment loans, long-term mortgage originations, credit cards, and standby letters of credit. Commercial loans are made primarily to fund real estate construction and to meet the needs of customers engaged in the agriculture, timber, seafood, and other industries. Installment loans are made for both consumer and non-consumer purposes. Through an affiliation with Raymond James Financial Services, SEB also provides insurance agent and investment brokerage services. At December 31, 2006, SEB operated sixteen full-service banking offices with total assets approximating $409,000,000. A list of SEB offices is provided in Part I, Item 2.

 

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The Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta is the principal correspondent of SEB; virtually all checks and electronic payments are processed through the Federal Reserve. SEB also maintains accounts with other correspondent banks in Georgia, Florida, and Alabama.

At December 31, 2006, the Company and its subsidiary had 164 full-time employees and 11 part-time employees.

3. Competition. The Company has direct competition with other commercial banks, savings and loan associations, and credit unions in each market area. Since mid-1998, intrastate branching restrictions in all of the Company’s market areas have been lifted. The removal of intrastate branching restrictions has given the Company opportunities for growth but has also intensified competition as other banks branch into the Company’s markets.

The Company faces increasingly aggressive competition from other domestic lending institutions and from numerous other providers of financial services. The ability of nonbanking financial institutions to provide services previously reserved for commercial banks has intensified competition. Because nonbanking financial institutions are not subject to the same regulatory restrictions as banks and bank holding companies, they can often operate with greater flexibility and lower cost structures. Recent abolishment of certain restrictions between banks, securities firms, and insurance companies further intensifies competition; refer to the Supervision and Regulation section of this Item for more details.

4. Supervision and Regulation. As a bank holding company, the Company is subject to the supervision and regulation of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (“Federal Reserve”). SEB, an insured state non-member bank chartered by the Georgia Department of Banking and Finance (“GDBF”), is subject to supervision and regulation by the GDBF and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”). SEB is subject to various requirements and restrictions under federal and state law, including requirements to maintain reserves against deposits, restrictions on the types and amounts of loans that may be made and the interest that may be charged thereon, and limitations on the types of investments that may be made and the types of services that may be offered. Numerous consumer laws and regulations also affect the operations of SEB. In addition to the impact of regulation, the Company is also significantly affected by the actions of the Federal Reserve as it attempts to control the money supply and credit availability in order to influence the economy. The Company’s nonbank subsidiary, although currently inactive, is regulated and supervised by applicable bank, insurance, and various other regulatory agencies.

Pursuant to the Riegle-Neal Interstate Banking and Branching Efficiency Act of 1994, bank holding companies from any state may acquire banks located in any other state, subject to certain conditions, including concentration limits. In addition, a bank may establish branches across state lines by merging with a bank in another state, subject to certain restrictions.

A number of obligations and restrictions imposed on bank holding companies and their bank subsidiaries by federal law and regulatory policy are designed to reduce potential loss exposure to bank depositors and to the FDIC insurance fund in the event of actual or possible default. For example, under Federal Reserve policy with respect to bank holding company operations, the Company is expected to serve as a source of financial strength to, and commit resources to support, SEB where it might refuse absent such policy. The federal banking agencies have broad powers under current federal law to take prompt corrective action to resolve problems of insured depository institutions. The extent of these powers depends upon whether the applicable institution is “well-capitalized,” “adequately capitalized,” “undercapitalized,” “significantly undercapitalized,” or “critically undercapitalized,” as those terms are defined under regulations issued by each of the federal banking agencies. The Company and SEB are considered “well-capitalized” by their respective federal banking regulators. The Company’s capital position is delineated in Note 15 to the consolidated financial statements and in the Capital Adequacy section of Part II, Item 7.

There are various legal and regulatory limits on the amount of dividends and other funds SEB may pay or otherwise supply the Company. Additionally, federal and state regulatory agencies have the authority to prevent a bank or bank holding company from engaging in any activity that, in the opinion of the agency, would constitute an unsafe or unsound practice.

 

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On November 12, 1999, financial modernization legislation known as the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (the Act) was signed into law. Under the Act, a bank holding company which elects to become a financial holding company may engage in expanded financial activities, including insurance and securities underwriting, and may also acquire securities and insurance companies, subject in each case to certain conditions. Securities firms and insurance companies may also choose to establish or become financial holding companies and thereby acquire banks, also subject to certain conditions. The abolishment of certain restrictions between banks, securities firms, and insurance companies provides both challenges and opportunities to the Company. The Company has no present intention to change its status from a bank holding company to a financial holding company.

The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and its impact on the Company is discussed in the Corporate Governance section of Part II, Item 7.

There have been a number of legislative and regulatory proposals that would have an impact on the operation of bank holding companies and their subsidiaries. It is impossible to predict whether or in what form these proposals may be adopted in the future and, if adopted, what their effect will be on the Company.

5. Securities Exchange Act Reports. Through its Internet website at www.southeasternbank.com, the Company provides a direct link to its Securities and Exchange Act filings. Reports accessible from this link include annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, and current reports on Form 8-K.

 

Item 1A. Risk Factors

Our business is subject to certain risks, including those described below. The risks below do not describe all risks applicable to our business and are intended only as a summary of certain material factors that affect our operations in our industry and markets. New risks may emerge at any time, and we cannot predict such risks or estimate the extent to which they may affect our financial performance in which we operate. More detailed information concerning these and other risks is contained in other sections of this Form 10-K.

We face strong competition from other financial services providers.

We operate in a highly competitive market for the products and services we offer. The competition among financial services providers to attract and retain customers is strong. Customer loyalty can be easily influenced by a competitor’s new products, especially offerings that could provide cost savings or a higher return to the customer. Some of our competitors may be better able to provide a wider range of products and services over a greater geographic area. We compete with commercial banks, credit unions, savings and loan associations, mortgage banking firms, consumer finance companies, securities brokerage firms, insurance companies, money market funds, and other mutual funds, as well as other super-regional, national, and international financial institutions that operate offices in our market areas and elsewhere. Moreover, this highly competitive industry could become even more competitive as a result of legislative, regulatory, and technological changes and continued consolidation. Many of our competitors have fewer regulatory constraints and some have lower cost structures. While we believe we can and do successfully compete with these other financial institutions in our market areas, we may face a competitive disadvantage as a result of our smaller size, lack of geographic diversification and inability to spread our marketing costs across a broader market.

Our business is subject to the success of the economic conditions of the United States and the markets in which we operate.

The success of our business and earnings is affected by general business and economic conditions in the United States and our market areas, particularly southeast Georgia and northeast Florida. If the communities in which we operate do not grow as anticipated or if prevailing economic conditions locally or nationally are unfavorable, our business may be negatively impacted. An economic downturn, an increase in unemployment, or other events that affect household and/or corporate incomes either nationally or locally could decrease the demand for loans and our other products and services and increase the number of customers who fail to pay interest or principal on their loans. Moreover, we cannot give any assurance that we will benefit from any market growth or favorable economic conditions in our market areas if they do occur.

 

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In addition, the market value of the real estate securing loans as collateral could be adversely affected by unfavorable changes in market and economic conditions. As of December 31, 2006, approximately 80% of our total loans were collateralized by real estate. Any sustained period of increased payment delinquencies, foreclosures, or losses caused by adverse market or economic conditions in our market areas could adversely affect the value of our assets, our revenues, results of operations and financial condition.

Our recent operating results may not be indicative of our future operating results.

We may not be able to sustain our historical rate of growth or may not even be able to grow our business at all. In the future, we may not have the benefit of a favorable interest rate environment or a strong real estate market. Various factors, such as economic conditions, regulatory and legislative considerations, and competition, may also impede or prohibit our ability to expand our market presence. If we experience a significant decrease in our historical rate of growth, our results of operations and financial condition may be adversely affected due to a high percentage of our operating costs being fixed expenses.

Risks associated with unpredictable economic and political conditions may be amplified as a result of our limited market areas.

Conditions such as inflation, recession, unemployment, high interest rates, short money supply, scarce natural resources, international disorders, terrorism and other factors beyond our control may adversely affect our profitability. Because the majority of our borrowers are individuals and businesses located and doing business in southeast Georgia and northeast Florida, our success will depend significantly upon the economic conditions in those areas. Due to our limited market areas, these negative conditions may have a more noticeable effect on us than would be experienced by a larger institution more able to spread these risks of unfavorable local economic conditions across a large number of diversified economies.

If our allowance for loan losses is not sufficient to cover actual loan losses, or if credit delinquencies increase, our earnings could decrease.

Like other financial institutions, we face the risk that our customers will not repay their loans, that the collateral securing the payment of those loans may be insufficient to assure repayment, and that we may be unsuccessful in recovering the remaining loan balances. Management makes various assumptions and judgments about the collectibility of our loan portfolio, including the creditworthiness of our borrowers and the value of the real estate and other assets serving as collateral for the repayment of many of our loans. Based in part on those assumptions and judgments, we maintain an allowance for loan losses in an attempt to cover any loan losses which may occur. In determining the size of the allowance, we also rely on an analysis of our loan portfolio based on historical loss experience, volume and types of loans, trends in classification, volume, delinquencies and non-accruals, national and local economic conditions, and other pertinent information. However, those established loan loss reserves may prove insufficient. If we are unable to raise revenue to compensate for these losses, such losses could have a material adverse effect on our operating results.

In addition, federal and state regulators periodically review our allowance for loan losses and may require us to increase our allowance for loan losses or recognize further loan charge-offs, based on judgments different than those of our management. Higher charge-off rates and an increase in our allowance for loan losses may hurt our overall financial performance may increase our cost of funds.

Departures of our key personnel may harm our ability to operate successfully.

Our success has been and continues to be largely dependent upon the services of our senior management team, including our senior loan officers, and our board of directors, many of whom have significant relationships with our customers. Our continued success will depend, to a significant extent, on the continued service of these key personnel. The prolonged unavailability or the unexpected loss of any of them could have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. We cannot be assured of the continued service of our senior management team or our board of directors with us.

 

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We may face risks with respect to the future expansion of our business.

As we expand our business in the future into new and emerging markets, we may also consider and enter into new lines of business or offer new products or services. Such expansion involves risks, including:

 

   

Entry into new markets where we lack experience;

 

   

The introduction of new products or services into our business with which we lack experience;

 

   

The time and cost associated with identifying and evaluating potential markets, products and services, hiring experienced local management, and opening new offices;

 

   

Potential time lags between preparatory activities and the generation of sufficient assets and deposits to support the costs of expansion; and

 

   

The estimates and judgments used to evaluate market risks with respect to new markets, products, and services may not be accurate.

Future growth may require us to raise additional capital, but that capital may not be available when it is needed.

We are required by federal and state regulatory authorities to maintain adequate levels of capital to support our operations. We anticipate that our capital resources will continue to satisfy our capital requirements for the foreseeable future. We may at some point, however, need to raise additional capital to support our continued growth.

Our ability to raise additional capital, if needed, will depend on conditions in the capital markets at that time and on our financial performance. Accordingly, we cannot ensure our ability to raise additional capital if needed on favorable terms. If we cannot raise additional capital when needed, our ability to expand our operations through internal growth and acquisitions could be materially impaired.

We are subject to extensive regulation that could limit or restrict our activities and adversely affect our earnings.

We operate in a highly regulated industry and are subject to examination, supervision, and comprehensive regulation by various federal and state agencies. Our compliance with these regulations is costly and restricts certain of our activities, including payment of dividends, mergers and acquisitions, investments, loans and interest rates charged, interest rates paid on deposits and locations of offices. Many of these regulations are intended to protect depositors, the public, and the FDIC rather than shareholders. The laws and regulations applicable to the banking industry could change at any time, and we cannot predict the effects of these changes on our business and profitability. In addition, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, and the related rules and regulations promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission, have increased the scope, complexity and cost of corporate governance, reporting and disclosure practices, including the costs of completing our audit and maintaining our internal controls.

The monetary policies and laws of the United States, including interest rate policies of the Federal Reserve Board, could affect our earnings.

The Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System regulates the supply of money and credit in the United States. Its policies determine in large part our cost of funds for lending and investing and our return on those loans and investments, both of which affect our net interest margin. They can also materially affect the value of financial instruments we hold. Changes in interest rates by the Federal Reserve may affect our level of interest income and interest expense. In a period of rising interest rates, our interest expense could increase in different amounts and at different rates while the interest that we earn on our assets may not change in the same amounts or at the same rates. Accordingly, increases in interest rates could decrease our net interest income. In addition, an increase in interest rates may decrease the demand for consumer and commercial credit, including real estate loans, which are a major component of our loan portfolio.

Changes in the level of interest rates also may negatively affect our ability to originate real estate loans, the value of our assets and our ability to realize gains from the sale of our assets, all of which ultimately affect our earnings. A decline in the market value of our

 

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assets may limit our ability to borrow additional funds or result in our lenders requiring additional collateral from us under our loan agreements. As a result, we could be required to sell some of our loans and investments under adverse market conditions, upon terms that are not favorable to us, in order to maintain our liquidity. If those sales are made at prices lower than the amortized costs of the investments, we will incur losses. Changes in Federal Reserve Board policies and laws are beyond our control and hard to predict.

Fluctuations in our expenses and other costs may hurt our financial results.

Our expenses and other costs, such as operating and marketing expenses, directly affect our earnings results. In light of the extremely competitive environment in which we operate, and because the size and scale of many of our competitors provides them with increased operational efficiencies, we must successfully manage such expenses. As our business develops, changes or expands, additional expenses can arise.

We must respond to rapid technological changes and these changes may be more difficult or expensive than anticipated.

If competitors introduce new products and services embodying new technologies, or if new industry standards and practices emerge, our existing product and service offerings, technology and systems may become obsolete. Further, if we fail to adopt or develop new technologies or to adapt our products and services to emerging industry standards, we may lose current and future customers, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations. The financial services industry is changing rapidly and in order to remain competitive, we must continue to enhance and improve the functionality and features of our products, services, and technologies. These changes may be more difficult or expensive than we anticipate.

Negative public opinion could damage our reputation and adversely impact business and revenues.

As a financial institution, our earnings and capital are subject to risks associated with negative public opinion. Negative public opinion could result from our actual or alleged conduct in any number of activities, including lending practices, the failure of any product or service sold by us to meet our customers’ expectations or applicable regulatory requirements, corporate governance and acquisitions, or from actions taken by regulators and community organizations in response to those activities. Negative public opinion can adversely affect our ability to keep and attract and/or retain clients and can expose us to litigation and regulatory action.

Changes in accounting policies and practices, as may be adopted by the regulatory agencies, the Financial Accounting Standards Board, or other authoritative bodies, could materially impact our financial statements.

Our accounting policies and methods are fundamental to how we record and report our financial condition and results of operations. From time to time, the regulatory agencies, the Financial Accounting Standards Board, and other authoritative bodies change the financial accounting and reporting standards that govern the preparation of our financial statements. These changes can be hard to predict and can materially impact how we record and report our financial condition and results of operations.

The costs and effects of litigation, investigations or similar matters, or adverse facts and developments related thereto, could materially affect our business, operating results, and financial condition.

We may be involved from time to time in a variety of litigation, investigations, or similar matters arising out of our business. Our insurance may not cover all claims that may be asserted against it, and any claims asserted against us, regardless of merit or eventual outcome, may harm our reputation. Should the ultimate judgments or settlements in any litigation or investigation significantly exceed our insurance coverage, they could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, we may not be able to obtain appropriate types or levels of insurance in the future, nor may we be able to obtain adequate replacement policies with acceptable terms, if at all.

Various domestic or international military or terrorist activities or conflicts could affect our business and financial condition.

Acts or threats of war or terrorism, actions taken by the United States or other governments in response to such acts or threats could negatively affect business and economic conditions in the United States. If terrorist activity, acts of war, or other international

 

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hostilities cause an overall economic decline, our financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected. The potential for future terrorist attacks, the national and international responses to terrorist attacks or perceived threats to national security and other actual or potential conflicts or acts of war, including war in the Middle East, have created many economic and political uncertainties that could seriously harm our business and results of operations in ways that we cannot predict.

Our directors and executive officers own a significant portion of our common stock.

Our directors and executive officers, as a group, beneficially owned approximately 28% of our outstanding common stock as of December 31, 2006. As a result of their ownership, the directors and executive officers will have the ability, by voting their shares in concert, to significantly influence the outcome of all matters submitted to our shareholders for approval, including the election of directors.

The trading volume in our common stock has been low, and the sale of substantial amounts of our common stock in the public market could depress the price of our common stock.

The trading volume in our common stock has been relatively low. We cannot say with any certainty that a more active and liquid trading market for our common stock will develop. Because of this, it may be more difficult for you to sell a substantial number of shares for the same price at which you could sell a smaller number of shares.

We cannot predict the effect, if any, that future sales of our common stock in the market, or the availability of shares of common stock for sale in the market, will have on the market price of our common stock. We, therefore, can give no assurance that sales of substantial amounts of common stock in the market, or the potential for large amounts of sales in the market, would not cause the price of our common stock to decline or impair our future ability to raise capital through sales of our common stock.

Our ability to pay dividends is limited and we may be unable to pay future dividends.

Our ability to pay dividends is limited by regulatory restrictions and the need to maintain sufficient consolidated capital. The ability of SEB to pay dividends to the Company is limited by its obligation to maintain sufficient capital and by other general restrictions on its dividends that are applicable to Georgia banks and banks that are regulated by the FDIC. If we do not satisfy these regulatory requirements, we will be unable to pay dividends on our common stock.

 

Item 1B. Unre solved Staff Comments.

None

 

Item 2. Prop erties.

Company Property. The Company’s executive offices are located in SEB’s main banking office at 1010 Northway Street, Darien, Georgia.

Banking Facilities. Besides its main office in Darien, SEB has fifteen other banking offices in northeast Florida and southeast Georgia as shown in the table below:

 

Banking Offices

Florida   

542238 US Highway 1

Nassau County

Callahan, Florida 32011

  

463128 State Road 200

Nassau County

Yulee, Florida 32097

 

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Banking Offices, continued:

Florida   

15885 County Road 108

Nassau County

Hilliard, Florida 32046

  
Georgia   

755 Scranton Road

Glynn County

Brunswick, Georgia 31525

   1501 GA Highway 40 East
Camden County
Kingsland, Georgia 31548
  

620 S. Peterson Street

Coffee County

Douglas, Georgia 31533

   110 Bacon Street
Brantley County
Nahunta, Georgia 31553
  

Highway 17

McIntosh County

Eulonia, Georgia 31331

   910 Van Streat Highway
Coffee County
Nicholls, Georgia 31554
  

101 Love Street

Charlton County

Folkston, Georgia 31537

   2004 Highway 17
Bryan County
Richmond Hill, Georgia 31324
  

14 Hinson Street

Jeff Davis County

Hazlehurst, Georgia 31539

   2512 Osborne Road
Camden County
St. Marys, Georgia 31558
  

107 E. Main Street

Brantley County

Hoboken, Georgia 31542

   414 Bedell Avenue
Camden County
Woodbine, Georgia 31569

The Company owns all of its main office and branch facilities except its Scranton Road facility in Brunswick. The Scranton facility is a temporary branch building leased from a third party. Additionally, general office space is leased in Brunswick from another third party. The annual lease expense for the Brunswick office space and Scranton facility approximates $77,000; the remaining term of the leases is less than one year. The Company is also leasing space at 601 Palisade Drive in the Southport area of Brunswick; the new branch at that location opened in January 2007. The annual lease expense for the Southport location approximates $22,000; the remaining term of the lease approximates two years. See Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements for further property information.

 

Item 3. Legal Proceedings.

The Company and its subsidiaries are parties to claims and lawsuits arising in the course of their normal business activities. Although the ultimate outcome of these suits cannot be ascertained at this time, it is the opinion of management and counsel that none of these matters, when resolved, will have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated results of operations or financial position.

 

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

None

 

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PART II

 

Item 5. Market for the Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Shareholder Matters, and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.

The Company’s stock trades publicly over-the-counter under the symbol “SEBC.” The high and low sales prices shown below are based on information being posted to electronic bulletin boards by market-makers in the Company’s stock. These market prices may include dealer mark-up, markdown, and/or commission. Prices paid on treasury stock purchases are excluded from these results.

The table below sets forth the high and low sales prices and the cash dividends declared on the Company’s common stock during the periods indicated.

 

Market Sales Price &

Dividends Declared

   Quarter     Sales Price    Dividends
Declared
     High    Low   

2006

   4 th   $ 30.00    $ 27.25    $ 0.615
   3 rd     28.50      28.00      0.135
   2 nd     27.75      27.15      0.135
   1 st     28.00      26.00      0.135

2005

   4 th     28.25      27.50      0.63
   3 rd     28.50      26.50      0.13
   2 nd     28.00      25.00      0.13
   1 st     28.00      25.00      0.13

2004

   4 th     26.25      25.10      0.625
   3 rd     27.25      25.00      0.125
   2 nd     27.45      24.75      0.125
   1 st     26.00      24.00      0.125

The Company had approximately 500 shareholders of record at December 31, 2006.

The Company has paid regular cash dividends on a quarterly basis every year since its inception. Additionally, in recent years, the Company has declared an extra dividend in the fourth quarter of each year. Management anticipates that the Company will continue to pay regular cash dividends; however, any extra dividend will be incorporated in the regular quarterly dividend on a pro-rata basis effective the fourth quarter of 2007. See the Capital Adequacy section of Part II, Item 7 for more details.

The Company is a legal entity separate and distinct from its subsidiaries, and its revenues depend primarily on the payment of dividends from its subsidiaries. State banking regulations limit the amount of dividends SEB may pay without prior approval of the regulatory agencies. The amount of cash dividends available from SEB for payment in 2007 without such prior approval is approximately $3,279,000.

The Company manages capital through dividends and share repurchases authorized by the Board of Directors. Capital needs are assessed based on expected growth and the current economic climate. In 2006, the Company repurchased 21,402 shares at an aggregate price of $599,256 and in 2005, 69,147 shares at an aggregate price of $1,941,444. As of December 31, 2006, the Company was authorized to purchase treasury shares valued at $2,643,671 under current Board resolutions. There is no expiration date for the treasury authorization.

Treasury purchases made during 2006 are summarized in the table on the next page.

 

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Share Repurchases - 2006

   Total Number
of Shares
Purchased
   Average
Price Paid
per Share
   Number of Shares
Purchased as Part of
Publicly Announced
Plans or Programs
   Maximum Dollar Value
of Shares that May Yet
be Purchased under the
Plans or Programs

January - May

   —        —      —      $ 3,242,927

June

   21,402      28.00    21,402      2,643,671

July - December

   —        —      —        2,643,671
                       

Total

   21,402    $ 28.00    21,402   
                   

Subsequent to December 31, 2006, the Company purchased another 4,000 treasury shares at an aggregate purchase price of $118,000 or $28.00 per share.

Set forth below is a line graph comparing the yearly percentage change in the cumulative total shareholder return on the Company’s common stock against the cumulative total return of the NASDAQ Stock Index and The Carson Medlin Company’s Independent Bank Index (the “IBI”) for the five years commencing December 31, 2001 and ended December 31, 2006. The IBI comprises a group of 28 independent community banks located in the southeastern United States.

LOGO

 

     2001    2002    2003    2004    2005    2006

Southeastern Banking Corporation

   100    132    204    213    240    251

Independent Bank Index

   100    124    168    193    199    230

Nasdaq Index

   100    69    103    113    115    126

 

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Item 6. Selected Consolidated Financial Data.

Selected financial data for the last five years is provided in the table below:

 

Financial Data

   2006     2005     2004     2003     2002  
(Dollars in thousands except per share data)                               
At December 31:           

Total assets

   $ 410,302     $ 388,691     $ 400,755     $ 374,368     $ 378,140  

Loans, net of unearned income

     247,765       223,791       218,505       205,680       174,981  

Allowance for loan losses

     4,240       4,311       4,134       3,833       3,601  

Investment securities

     126,286       117,376       117,884       131,759       153,323  

Deposits

     341,951       328,801       339,310       316,963       317,848  

Long-term debt

     5,000       5,000       5,000       5,000       5,000  

Treasury stock

     7,356       6,757       4,816       4,600       4,124  

Realized stockholders’ equity

     52,784       50,089       48,881       46,599       45,193  
                                        
For the Year:           

Net interest income

   $ 19,644     $ 18,610     $ 17,275     $ 16,385     $ 15,333  

Provision for loan losses

     110       340       807       968       1,074  

Net income

     6,575       6,475       5,803       5,201       4,759  

Common dividends paid

     3,342       3,352       3,361       3,383       3,430  
                                        
Per Common Share:           

Basic earnings

   $ 2.04     $ 1.97     $ 1.75     $ 1.56     $ 1.42  

Dividends declared

     1.02       1.02       1.00       1.00       1.00  

Book value

     16.43       15.48       14.79       14.07       13.56  
                                        
Financial Ratios:           

Return on average assets

     1.68 %     1.67 %     1.53 %     1.42 %     1.30 %

Return on beginning equity

     13.13       13.25       12.45       11.51       10.66  

Tier 1 capital ratio

     18.36       19.73       18.92       19.06       20.76  

Total capital ratio

     19.61       20.98       20.17       20.32       22.01  

Tier 1 leverage ratio

     13.05       13.10       12.34       12.56       12.14  
                                        

The book value per share and equity ratios exclude the effects of mark-to-market accounting for investment securities. In accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, prior period amounts have not been restated to reflect the treasury stock purchases made from 2002—2006.

Business Combinations and Divestitures/New Offices

The financial data in the table above reflects the following developments:

 

   

In November 2004, the Company opened a full service branch facility in Brunswick, Georgia and closed its loan production office that was opened in 2003. In 2004, approximately $12,000,000 of new loan production was attributable to the Brunswick market and in 2003, approximately $16,000,000.

 

   

On January 31, 2002, the Company acquired the Richmond Hill office of Valdosta, Georgia-based Park Avenue Bank. The Company received certain loans, property and equipment, and other assets with fair values of approximately $12,201,000, while assuming deposits and other liabilities totaling approximately $4,270,000. Cash balances applied towards the purchase approximated $8,000,000. A deposit premium of $100,000 was recorded in conjunction with the transaction.

 

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Table of Contents
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

This Analysis should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes. The Company’s accounting policies, which are described in Note 1 to the financial statements and in the Critical Accounting Policies section of this Analysis, are integral to understanding the results reported. The Company’s accounting policies require management’s judgment in valuing assets, liabilities, commitments, and contingencies. A variety of factors could affect the ultimate value that is obtained when earning income, recognizing an expense, recovering an asset, or relieving a liability. This Analysis contains forward-looking statements with respect to business and financial matters. Actual results may vary significantly from those contained in these forward-looking statements. See the section entitled Forward-Looking Statements within this Analysis.

DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS

Southeastern Banking Corporation, with assets exceeding $410,300,000, is a financial services company with operations in southeast Georgia and northeast Florida. Southeastern Bank, the Company’s principal subsidiary, offers a full line of commercial and retail services to meet the financial needs of its customer base through its sixteen branch locations and ATM network. Services offered include traditional deposit and credit services, long-term mortgage originations, and credit cards. SEB also offers 24-hour delivery channels, including internet and telephone banking, and through an affiliation with Raymond James Financial Services, provides insurance agent and investment brokerage services.

FINANCIAL CONDITION

Consolidated assets totaled $410,302,056 at year-end 2006, up $21,610,884 or 5.56% from December 31, 2005. Asset growth was concentrated in the loan portfolio, particularly real estate – construction balances. Specifically, loans grew $24,044,840 or 10.96% and investment securities, $8,910,190; federal funds sold declined $15,003,000. Loans comprised approximately 66%, investment securities, 34%, and federal funds sold, 0%, of earning assets at December 31, 2006 versus 63%, 33%, and 4% at December 31, 2005. Overall, earning assets approximated 91% of total assets at both December 31, 2006 and 2005. During the year-earlier period, total assets declined $12,064,046 or 3.01%. A decline in federal funds sold was the main factor in the 2005 results. Refer to the Liquidity section of this Analysis for details on deposits and other funding sources.

Investment Securities

On a carrying value basis, investment securities increased $8,910,190 or 7.59% at December 31, 2006 compared to 2005. Purchases of securities during 2006, including short-term securities with original maturities of 90 days or less, approximated $96,260,000, and sales and other redemptions, $87,406,000. The Company recognized virtually no losses on sales of securities in 2006. In 2005, the Company recognized a loss of $76,750 on the sale of Agency securities approximating $3,000,000; these securities were sold to improve the overall yield of the portfolio. The remaining redemptions were attributable to various issuers’ exercise of call options and other prepayments as a result of the interest rate environment as well as maturities in the normal course of business. The effective repricing of redeemed securities impacts current and future earnings results; refer to the Interest Rate and Market Risk/Interest Rate Sensitivity and Operations sections of this Analysis for more details. In conjunction with asset/liability management, the Company continues to increase its proportionate holdings of mortgage-backed securities, corporates, and municipals when feasible to reduce its exposure to Agency securities with call features. At December 31, 2006, mortgage-backed securities, corporates, and municipals comprised 18%, 8%, and 26% of the portfolio. Overall, securities comprised 34% of earning assets at December 31, 2006, up from 33% at year-end 2005. The portfolio yield approximated 4.92% in 2006, up 9 basis points from 2005.

Management believes the credit quality of the investment portfolio remains sound, with 66.24% of the carrying value of debt securities being backed by the U.S. Treasury or other U.S. Government-sponsored agencies at December 31, 2006. The weighted average life of the portfolio approximated 3 years at year-end 2006. The amortized cost and estimated fair value of investment securities are delineated in the table on the next page.

 

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Table of Contents

Investment Securities by Category

December 31,

   Amortized
Cost
   Unrealized
Gains
   Unrealized
Losses
  

Fair

Value

(In thousands)                    
Available-for-sale:            

U. S. Government agencies

           

2006

   $ 61,544    $ 28    $ 572    $ 61,000

2005

     46,668      —        722      45,946

2004

     34,381      54      72      34,363

Mortgage-backed securities

           

2006

     23,205      37      586      22,656

2005

     29,014      67      796      28,285

2004

     33,940      231      305      33,866

Corporate bonds

           

2006

     9,647      244      56      9,835

2005

     8,152      436      27      8,561

2004

     12,027      643      3      12,667
                           

Total available-for-sale

           

2006

     94,396      309      1,214      93,491

2005

     83,834      503      1,545      82,792

2004

     80,348      928      380      80,896
Held-to-maturity:            

State and municipal securities

           

2006

     32,795      643      205      33,233

2005

     34,585      953      157      35,381

2004

     36,989      1,823      42      38,770
                           

Total investment securities:

           

2006

   $ 127,191    $ 952    $ 1,419    $ 126,724

2005

     118,419      1,456      1,702      118,173

2004

     117,337      2,751      422      119,666
                           

As shown, the carrying value of the investment portfolio reflected $467,902 in net unrealized losses at December 31, 2006; refer to Note 2 of the consolidated financial statements and the Capital Adequacy section of this Analysis for more details on investment securities and related fair value. The Company does not have a concentration in the obligations of any issuer other than the U.S. Government and its agencies.

The distribution of maturities and the weighted average yields of investment securities at December 31, 2006 are shown in the table on the next page. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may, in many instances, have the right to call or prepay obligations.

 

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Table of Contents

Maturity Distribution

of Investment Securities

December 31, 2006

  

1 Year

or Less

   

1 – 5

Years

   

5 – 10

Years

    After 10
Years
    Total  
(Dollars in thousands)                               
Distribution of maturities           

Amortized cost:

          

U.S. Government agencies

   $ 26,990     $ 29,144     $ 5,410     $ —       $ 61,544  

Mortgage-backed securities1

     1,390       21,246       569       —         23,205  

Corporate bonds

     —         8,088       1,025       534       9,647  

States and municipal securities

     816       10,482       14,744       6,753       32,795  
                                        

Total investment securities

   $ 29,196     $ 68,960     $ 21,748     $ 7,287     $ 127,191  
                                        

Fair value:

          

U.S. Government agencies

   $ 26,888     $ 28,684     $ 5,428     $ —       $ 61,000  

Mortgage-backed securities1

     1,379       20,696       581       —         22,656  

Corporate bonds

     —         8,296       1,005       534       9,835  

States and municipal securities

     815       10,642       14,927       6,849       33,233  
                                        

Total investment securities

   $ 29,082     $ 68,318     $ 21,941     $ 7,383     $ 126,724  
                                        

Weighted average yield:

          

U.S. Government agencies

     4.38 %     4.23 %     5.69 %     —         4.42 %

Mortgage-backed securities1

     4.13 %     4.10 %     6.45 %     —         4.16 %

Corporate bonds

     —         6.00 %     6.00 %     6.00 %     6.00 %

States and municipal securities2

     6.06 %     6.81 %     6.69 %     5.90 %     6.55 %
                                        

Total investment securities

     4.41 %     4.79 %     6.40 %     5.90 %     5.04 %
                                        

1

Distribution of maturities for mortgage-backed securities is based on expected average lives which may differ from the contractual terms.

2

The weighted average yields for tax-exempt securities have been calculated on a taxable-equivalent basis, using a federal income tax rate of 34%. No adjustments have been made for any state tax benefits or the nondeductible portion of interest expense pertaining to tax-exempt income.

Loans

Loans, net of unearned income, grew 10.71% or $23,973,799 since year-end 2005. The net loans to deposits ratio aggregated 72.46% at December 31, 2006 versus 68.06% and 64.40% at December 31, 2005 and 2004. A $20,786,709 or 16.93% increase in real estate – construction and residential mortgage loans, particularly construction loans, was the primary factor in the 2006 results. The majority of the growth within the construction portfolio was residential in nature and concentrated in the Company’s coastal markets. Most of the loans in the real estate – construction portfolio are preparatory to customers’ attainment of permanent financing or developer’s sale and are, by nature, short-term and somewhat cyclical; swings in these account balances are normal and to be expected. Although the Company, like peer institutions of similar size, originates permanent mortgages for new construction, it traditionally does not hold or service long-term mortgage loans for its own portfolio. Rather, permanent mortgages are typically brokered through a mortgage underwriter or government agency. The Company receives mortgage origination fees for its participation in these origination transactions; refer to the disclosures provided under Results of Operations for more details. Reversing 2005 declines, consumer loans grew $2,143,978 at December 31, 2006 compared to year-end 2005; these loans comprised 7% of the total portfolio at December 31, 2006. Overall, the commercial portfolio grew $999,818 at year-end 2006 compared to 2005. Nonfarm real estate and governmental loans within the commercial portfolio grew $4,527,304 and $1,240,244; other commercial/industrial and agricultural loans fell $4,265,221 and $502,509. Commercial balances are projected to improve during 2007.

Despite economic uncertainties within the Company’s markets, management is optimistic that loan volumes will continue to grow in 2007. Managerial strategies to increase loan production include continuing competitive pricing on loan products, development of additional loan relationships, and purchase of loan participations from correspondent banks, all without compromising portfolio

 

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quality. Additionally, real estate financing in the Company’s coastal markets is expected to remain strong. During the same period in 2005, net loans grew 2.42% or $5,287,131. Growth in real estate – construction loans was the main factor in the 2005 results. Loans outstanding are presented by type in the table below:

 

Loans by Category

December 31,

   2006    2005    2004    2003    2002
(In thousands)                         

Commercial, financial, and agricultural1

   $ 87,255    $ 86,256    $ 87,784    $ 86,078    $ 77,680

Real estate – construction3

     104,212      64,549      56,471      43,770      17,371

Real estate – residential mortgage2, 3

     39,340      58,215      56,944      54,782      55,614

Consumer, including credit cards

     17,071      14,927      17,510      21,266      24,649
                                  

Loans, gross

     247,878      223,947      218,709      205,896      175,314

Unearned income

     112      156      204      216      333
                                  

Loans, net

   $ 247,766    $ 223,791    $ 218,505    $ 205,680    $ 174,981
                                  

1

Includes obligations of states and political subdivisions.

2

Typically have final maturities of 15 years or less.

3

To comply with recent regulatory guidelines, certain loans that formerly would have been classified as real estate—mortgage are now being coded as real estate—construction. Comparable loans from prior periods have not been reclassified to reflect this change. The majority of real estate loans are residential in nature.

The amount of commercial/financial/agricultural and real estate—construction loans outstanding at December 31, 2006, based on remaining contractual repayments of principal, are shown by maturity and interest rate sensitivity in the table below. The maturities shown are not necessarily indicative of future principal reductions or cash flow since each loan is evaluated at maturity and, in many instances, is renewed in part or total.

 

Loan Maturity and

Interest Rate Sensitivity – Selected Loans

December 31, 2006

   Total   

Within

One Year

  

One-Five

Years

  

After
Five

Years

(In thousands)                    
Loan maturity:            

Commercial, financial, and agricultural1

   $ 87,020    $ 28,220    $ 55,292    $ 3,508

Real estate – construction1

     104,091      72,580      30,874      637
                           

Total

   $ 191,111    $ 100,800    $ 86,166    $ 4,145
                           
Interest rate sensitivity:            

Selected loans with:

           

Predetermined interest rates

         $ 55,054    $ 831

Floating or adjustable interest rates

           31,112      3,314
                   

Total

         $ 86,166    $ 4,145
                   

1

Excludes nonaccrual loans totaling approximately $235 and $121.

Although the Company’s loan portfolio is diversified, significant portions of its loans are collateralized by real estate. At December 31, 2006, approximately 80% of the loan portfolio was comprised of loans with real estate as the primary collateral. As required by policy, real estate loans are collateralized based on certain loan-to-appraised value ratios. A geographic concentration in loans arises given the Company’s operations within a regional area of southeast Georgia and northeast Florida. On an aggregate basis, commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit approximated $60,457,000 at year-end 2006; because a substantial amount of these contracts expire without being drawn upon, total contractual amounts do not necessarily represent future credit exposure or liquidity requirements. The Company did not fund or incur any losses on letters of credit in 2006 and 2005.

 

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Table of Contents

Nonperforming Assets

Nonperforming assets consist of nonaccrual loans, restructured loans, and foreclosed real estate and other assets. Overall, nonperforming assets aggregated $1,267,272 at year-end 2006, down $226,561 or 15.17% from year-end 2005. As a percent of total assets, nonperforming assets totaled 0.31% at December 31, 2006 versus 0.38% at both December 31, 2005 and 2004. Other than the addition of a $97,000 commercial loan, no material credits were transferred or removed from nonaccrual status during 2006. Industry or individual fluctuations within nonaccrual balances at December 31, 2006 included:

 

  a) Industry concentrations: Approximately 14% or $131,000 of nonaccrual balances at December 31, 2006 pertained to the commercial shrimping industry; charge-offs on these particular loans approximated $52,000 during 2006. Collateral held varies but includes real estate and commercial fishing vessels. Management considers the allowance sufficient to absorb any additional losses that may result from these loans.

 

  b) Individual concentrations: At December 31, 2006, nonaccrual balances also included loans to two other borrowers averaging $89,000 each. Due to the underlying collateral coverage, no significant losses, if any, are expected on these balances.

Refer to the subsection entitled Policy Note for criteria used by management in classifying loans as nonaccrual. The allowance for loan losses approximated 4.40X the nonperforming loans balance at December 31, 2006 versus 3.35X at year-end 2005 and 3.87X at year-end 2004. Significant activity within foreclosed real estate balances included foreclosure of one borrower’s residential real estate valued at approximately $130,000. Management is unaware of any other material developments in nonperforming assets at December 31, 2006 that should be presented or otherwise discussed.

Loans past due 90 days or more approximated $647,000, or less than 1% of net loans, at year-end 2006. Management is unaware of any material concentrations within these past due balances. The table below provides further information about nonperforming assets and loans past due 90 plus days:

 

Nonperforming Assets                               

December 31,

   2006     2005     2004     2003     2002  
(Dollars in thousands)                               

Nonaccrual loans:

          

Commercial, financial, and agricultural

   $ 235     $ 327     $ 312     $ 691     $ 1,417  

Real estate – construction

     121       33       33       60       —    

Real estate – residential mortgage

     318       818       556       560       517  

Consumer, including credit cards

     290       107       168       77       96  
                                        

Total nonaccrual loans

   $ 964     $ 1,285     $ 1,069     $ 1,388     $ 2,030  

Restructured loans1

     —         —         —         —         —    
                                        

Total nonperforming loans

   $ 964     $ 1,285     $ 1,069     $ 1,388     $ 2,030  

Foreclosed real estate2

     288       187       409       197       273  

Other repossessed assets

     15       22       27       11       91  
                                        

Total nonperforming assets

   $ 1,267     $ 1,494     $ 1,505     $ 1,596     $ 2,394  
                                        

Accruing loans past due 90 days or more

   $ 647     $ 579     $ 876     $ 961     $ 1,448  
                                        

Ratios:

          

Nonperforming loans to net loans

     0.39 %     0.57 %     0.49 %     0.67 %     1.16 %
                                        

Nonperforming assets to net loans plus foreclosed/repossessed assets

     0.51 %     0.67 %     0.69 %     0.78 %     1.37 %
                                        

1

Does not include restructured loans that yield a market rate.

2

Includes only other real estate acquired through foreclosure or in settlement of debts previously contracted.

 

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Nonperforming Assets – 2005 compared to 2004 and 2003. Charge-offs on nonaccrual loans pertaining to the commercial shrimping industry approximated $64,000 in 2005. Other nonperforming activity in 2005 included foreclosure of a $94,000 residential parcel and sale of a separate $150,000 parcel. Nonperforming activity in 2004 included a $191,000 reduction in a large nonaccrual loan due to borrower sale of underlying collateral and an $86,000 charge-off on a separate commercial real estate loan; additionally, foreclosed real estate balances included foreclosure of a commercial parcel valued at $170,000 and sale of an unrelated $98,000 parcel at a book gain of $117,000.

Nonperforming Assets – 2003 compared to 2002. The fluctuation in nonperforming asset balances at year-end 2003 versus 2002 resulted predominantly from agricultural-based loans. Specifically, nonaccrual balances in 2002 included approximately $600,000 pertaining to an impaired agricultural loan collateralized by timber and farmlands. In March 2003, this loan was paid off; interest income recognized upon settlement totaled $112,000. Conversely, due to the decline in the shrimping industry, multiple loans to commercial fishermen totaling approximately $334,000 were converted to nonaccrual status during 2003.

Policy Note. Loans classified as nonaccrual have been placed in nonperforming, or impaired, status because the borrower’s ability to make future principal and/or interest payments has become uncertain. The Company considers a loan to be nonaccrual with the occurrence of any one of the following events: a) interest or principal has been in default 90 days or more, unless the loan is well-collateralized and in the process of collection; b) collection of recorded interest or principal is not anticipated; or c) income on the loan is recognized on a cash basis due to deterioration in the financial condition of the borrower. Smaller balance consumer loans are generally not subject to the above-referenced guidelines and are normally placed on nonaccrual status or else charged-off when payments have been in default 90 days or more. Nonaccrual loans are reduced to the lower of the principal balance of the loan or the market value of the underlying real estate or other collateral net of selling costs. Any impairment in the principal balance is charged against the allowance for loan losses. Accrued interest on any loan placed on nonaccrual status is reversed. Interest income on nonaccrual loans, if subsequently recognized, is recorded on a cash basis. No interest is subsequently recognized on nonaccrual (or former nonaccrual) loans until all principal has been collected. The gross amount of interest income that would have been recorded in 2006, 2005, and 2004, if such loans had been accruing interest at their contractual rates, was $95,000, $99,000, and $154,000; interest income actually recognized totaled $58,000, $65,000, and $155,000. Loans are classified as restructured when either interest or principal has been reduced or deferred because of deterioration in the borrower’s financial position. Foreclosed real estate represents real property acquired by foreclosure or directly by title or deed transfer in settlement of debt. Provisions for subsequent devaluations of foreclosed real estate are charged to operations, while costs associated with improving the properties are generally capitalized. Refer to the footnotes accompanying the consolidated financial statements for more details on the Company’s accounting and reporting policies on impaired loans and other real estate.

Allowance for Loan Losses

The Company continuously reviews its loan portfolio and maintains an allowance for loan losses available to absorb losses inherent in the portfolio. The 2006 provision for loan losses totaled $109,500 and net charge-offs, $180,541. The comparable provision and charge-off amounts for 2005 were $339,833 and $162,874 and in 2004, $807,483 and $506,086. Net charge-offs represented 0.08% of average loans in 2006 compared to 0.07% in 2005 and 0.24% in 2004. Refer to the Nonperforming Assets section of this Analysis for details on specific charge-offs recognized the last few years. The Company is committed to the early recognition of problem loans and to an appropriate and adequate level of allowance. The adequacy of the allowance is further discussed in the next subsection of this Analysis. Activity in the allowance is presented in the table on the next page.

 

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Allowance for Loan Losses

Years Ended December 31,

                              
   2006     2005     2004     2003     2002  
(Dollars in thousands)                               

Allowance for loan losses at beginning of year

   $ 4,311     $ 4,134     $ 3,833     $ 3,601     $ 3,135  

Provision for loan losses

     110       340       807       968       1,074  

Charge-offs:

          

Commercial, financial, and agricultural

     142       126       339       391       146  

Real estate – construction

     4       28       12       29       2  

Real estate – residential mortgage

     26       35       71       106       198  

Consumer, including credit cards

     192       227       335       450       528  
                                        

Total charge-offs

     364       416       757       976       874  
                                        

Recoveries:

          

Commercial, financial, and agricultural

     47       76       11       31       21  

Real estate – construction

     —         —         —         1       —    

Real estate – residential mortgage

     20       19       47       20       5  

Consumer, including credit cards

     116       158       193       188       240  
                                        

Total recoveries

     183       253       251       240       266  
                                        

Net charge-offs

     181       163       506       736       608  
                                        

Allowance for loan losses at end of period

   $ 4,240     $ 4,311     $ 4,134     $ 3,833     $ 3,601  
                                        

Net loans outstanding1 at end of period

   $ 247,766     $ 223,791     $ 218,505     $ 205,680     $ 174,981  
                                        

Average net loans outstanding1 at end of period

   $ 236,120     $ 218,211     $ 210,477     $ 187,789     $ 173,663  
                                        

Ratios:

          

Allowance to net loans

     1.71 %     1.93 %     1.89 %     1.86 %     2.06 %
                                        

Net charge-offs to average loans

     0.08 %     0.07 %     0.24 %     0.39 %     0.35 %
                                        

Provision to average loans

     0.05 %     0.16 %     0.38 %     0.52 %     0.62 %
                                        

Recoveries to total charge-offs

     50.27 %     60.82 %     33.16 %     24.59 %     30.43 %
                                        

1

Net of unearned income

The Company prepares a comprehensive analysis of the allowance for loan losses at least quarterly. SEB’s Board of Directors is responsible for affirming the allowance methodology and assessing the general and specific allowance factors in relation to estimated and actual net charge-off trends. The allowance for loan losses consists of three elements: a) specific allowances for individual loans; b) general allowances for loan pools based on historical loan loss experience and current trends; and c) allowances based on economic conditions and other risk factors in the Company’s markets. The specific allowance is based on a regular analysis of classified loans where the internal risk ratings are below a predetermined classification. The specific allowance established for these classified loans is based on a careful analysis of probable and potential sources of repayment, including cash flow, collateral value, and guarantor capacity. The general allowance is determined by the mix of loan products within the portfolio, an internal loan grading process, and associated allowance factors. These general allowance factors are updated at least annually and are based on a statistical loss analysis and current loan charge-off trends. The loss analysis examines loss experience for loan portfolio segments in relation to internal loan grades. Charge-off trends are analyzed for homogeneous loan categories (e.g., residential real estate, consumer loans, etc.). While formal loss and charge-off trend analyses are conducted annually, the Company continually monitors credit quality in all portfolio segments and revises the general allowance factors whenever necessary in order to address improving or deteriorating credit quality trends or specific risks associated with a given loan category. The third element, comprised of economic conditions, concentrations, and other risk factors, is based on marketplace conditions and/or events that may affect loan repayment in the near-term. This element requires a high degree of managerial judgment to anticipate the impact that economic trends, legislative or governmental actions, or other unique market and/or portfolio issues will have on credit losses. Consideration of other risk factors typically includes such issues as recent loss experience in specific portfolio segments, trends in loan quality, changes in market focus, and concentrations of credit. These factors are based on the influence of current external variables on portfolio risk, so there will typically be some movement between this element and the specific allowance component during various stages of the economic cycle.

 

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Because of their subjective nature, these risk factors are carefully reviewed by management and revised as conditions indicate. The unallocated component of the allowance reflects the margin for imprecisions in data and analytics inherent in most estimation processes. Based on its analyses, management believes the allowance was adequate at December 31, 2006.

The allowance is summarized by loan categories in the table below:

 

Allocation of Allowance for Loan Losses

December 31,

   2006     2005     2004     2003     2002  
(Dollars in thousands)                               
Allocation of allowance by loan category:           

Commercial, financial, and agricultural

   $ 1,616     $ 1,621     $ 1,764     $ 1,581     $ 1,843  

Real estate – construction1

     986       666       1,055       906       144  

Real estate – residential mortgage1

     633       866       973       918       893  

Consumer, including credit cards

     650       687       323       385       449  

Unallocated

     355       471       19       43       272  
                                        

Total

   $ 4,240     $ 4,311     $ 4,134     $ 3,833     $ 3,601  
                                        
Allocation of allowance as a percent of total allowance:           

Commercial, financial, and agricultural

     38 %     38 %     43 %     41 %     51 %

Real estate – construction1

     23 %     15 %     26 %     24 %     4 %

Real estate – residential mortgage1

     15 %     20 %     23 %     24 %     25 %

Consumer, including credit cards

     16 %     16 %     8 %     10 %     12 %

Unallocated

     8 %     11 %     —   %     1 %     8 %
                                        

Total

     100 %     100 %     100 %     100 %     100 %
                                        
Year-end loan categories as a percent of total loans:           

Commercial, financial, and agricultural

     35 %     38 %     41 %     42 %     44 %

Real estate – construction1

     42 %     29 %     25 %     21 %     10 %

Real estate – residential mortgage1

     16 %     26 %     26 %     27 %     32 %

Consumer, including credit cards

     7 %     7 %     8 %     10 %     14 %
                                        

Total

     100 %     100 %     100 %     100 %     100 %
                                        

1

To comply with recent regulatory guidelines, certain loans that formerly would have been classified as real estate—mortgage are now being coded as real estate—construction. Comparable loans from prior periods have not been reclassified to reflect this change. The majority of real estate loans are residential in nature.

As shown in the table above, growth in the allowance allocated to real estate – construction loans was primarily attributable to volume increases within that portfolio.

Other Commitments

Other than a) construction of a permanent branch building to replace the temporary facility at Scranton Road in Brunswick, Georgia, b) preparation of leased space at Southport, also in Brunswick, which opened as a new branch in January 2007, c) renovation of other SEB offices, and d) the purchase of new core banking software, the Company had no material plans or commitments for capital expenditures as of December 31, 2006. Estimated remaining costs associated with new construction and renovations in progress at December 31, 2006 were $2,800,000; costs associated with the new operating system, which will include both teller and deposit platforms, approximate $350,000.

 

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LIQUIDITY

Liquidity is managed to ensure sufficient cash flow to satisfy demands for credit, deposit withdrawals, and other corporate needs. The Company’s sources of funds include a large, stable deposit base and secured advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank (the “FHLB”). Additional liquidity is provided by payments and maturities, including both principal and interest, of the loan and investment securities portfolios. At December 31, 2006, loans1 and investment securities with carrying values exceeding $122,739,000 and $28,446,000 were scheduled to mature in one year or less. The investment portfolio has also been structured to meet liquidity needs prior to asset maturity when necessary. The Company’s liquidity position is further strengthened by its access, on both a short- and long-term basis, to other local and regional funding sources.

Funding sources primarily comprise customer-based core deposits but also include borrowed funds and cash flows from operations. Customer-based core deposits, the Company’s largest and most cost-effective source of funding, comprised 88% of the funding base at December 31, 2006, down 400 basis points from 2005 levels. Borrowed funds, which variously encompass U.S. Treasury demand notes, federal funds purchased, and FHLB advances, totaled $11,589,141 at year-end 2006 versus $6,355,559 at December 31, 2005. More specifically, the maximum amount of U.S. Treasury demand notes available to the Company at year-end 2006 totaled $3,000,000, of which 64% was outstanding. Borrowings under unsecured federal funds lines of credit from other banks, each with varying terms and expiration dates, totaled $4,684,000; the maximum credit facility under these lines was $23,000,000 at December 31, 2006. Additionally, under a credit facility with the FHLB, the Company can borrow up to 16% of SEB’s total assets; at year-end 2006, unused borrowings approximated $60,439,000. Refer to the subsection entitled FHLB Advances for details on the Company’s outstanding balance with the FHLB. Cash flows from operations also constitute a significant source of liquidity. Net cash from operations derives primarily from net income adjusted for noncash items such as depreciation and amortization, accretion, and the provision for loan losses.

Management believes the Company has the funding capacity, from operating activities or otherwise, to meet its financial commitments in 2007. Refer to the Capital Adequacy section of this Analysis for details on treasury stock purchases and intercompany dividend policy and the Financial Condition section of this Analysis for details on unfunded loan commitments.

1No cash flow assumptions other than final contractual maturities have been made for installment loans. Nonaccrual loans are excluded.

Deposits

Deposits aggregated $341,951,030 at year-end 2006, up $13,149,942 or 4.00% from December 31, 2005. Virtually all of the 2006 growth was attributable to interest-bearing balances. The mix of interest-bearing balances shifted notably at year-end 2006 compared to 2005 as customers took advantage of higher market rates for CDs and other investment opportunities. Specifically, time certificates grew $20,877,554 since year-end 2005; balances of $100,000 or more comprised 64% of the 2006 growth and 58% of certificate totals at year-end 2006. Savings declined $12,307,190, encompassing 26.75% of interest-bearing balances at December 31, 2006 versus 32.97% at December 31, 2005; the SmartSaver product experienced the largest decline. Interest-bearing demand deposits grew $3,350,751; seasonal variation in local government balances, predominantly NOW accounts, was the primary factor in the 2006 results. Funding costs associated with deposits increased significantly in 2006 versus 2005; see the Results of Operations section of this Analysis for more details. Overall, interest-bearing deposits comprised 76.32%, and noninterest-bearing deposits, 20.68%, of total deposits at December 31, 2006. The distribution of interest-bearing balances at December 31, 2006, 2005, and 2004 is shown in the table on the next page.

 

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Deposits

December 31,

   2006           2005           2004  
   Balances    Percent
of Total
          Balances    Percent
of Total
          Balances    Percent
of Total
 
(Dollars in thousands)                                              

Interest-bearing demand deposits1

   $ 97,305    37.28 %         $ 93,954    37.72 %         $ 98,352    36.55 %

Savings

     69,800    26.75 %           82,107    32.97 %           95,414    35.45 %

Time certificates < $100,000

     54,419    20.85 %           46,891    18.83 %           45,256    16.82 %

Time certificates >= $100,000

     39,448    15.12 %           26,098    10.48 %           30,101    11.18 %
                                                   

Total interest-bearing deposits

   $ 260,972    100.00 %         $ 249,050    100.00 %         $ 269,123    100.00 %
                                                   

1

NOW and money market accounts.

Deposits of one local governmental body comprised approximately $37,045,000 and $31,527,000 of the overall deposit base at December 31, 2006 and 2005. The Company had no brokered deposits at December 31, 2006.

As shown in the table below, approximately 76% of time certificates at December 31, 2006 were scheduled to mature within the next twelve months.

 

Maturities of Certificates of Deposit

December 31, 2006

   Balances    Total
   < $100,000    >= $100,000   
(In thousands)               

Months to maturity:

        

3 or less

   $ 10,568    $ 12,433    $ 23,001

Over 3 through 6

     12,108      6,904      19,012

Over 6 through 12

     21,979      15,215      37,194

Over 12

     9,764      4,896      14,660
                    

Total

   $ 54,419    $ 39,448    $ 93,867
                    

The average balances table included in the Operations section of this Analysis provides detailed information about income/expense and rates paid on deposits for the last three years. The composition of average deposits for these same periods is shown below:

 

Composition of Average Deposits

Years Ended December 31,

   2006     2005     2004  
   Balances    Percent
of Total
    Balances    Percent
of Total
    Balances    Percent
of Total
 
(Dollars in thousands)                                  

Noninterest-bearing deposits

   $ 82,372    25.08 %   $ 76,832    23.30 %   $ 67,526    20.89 %

Interest-bearing demand deposits1

     87,239    26.56 %     86,489    26.23 %     82,001    25.37 %

Savings

     75,949    23.12 %     91,412    27.72 %     96,303    29.80 %

Time certificates

     82,931    25.24 %     75,029    22.75 %     77,378    23.94 %
                                       

Total

   $ 328,491    100.00 %   $ 329,762    100.00 %   $ 323,208    100.00 %
                                       

1

NOW and money market accounts.

FHLB Advances

Advances outstanding with the FHLB totaled $5,000,000 at year-end 2006, unchanged from 2005. The outstanding advance, which matures March 17, 2010, accrues interest at an effective rate of 6.00%, payable quarterly. The advance is convertible into a three-month Libor-based floating rate anytime at the option of the FHLB. Interest expense on the advance approximated $300,000 in 2006 and 2005. Mortgage-backed securities with an aggregate carrying value of $5,201,103 were pledged to collateralize advances under this line of credit.

 

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INTEREST RATE AND MARKET RISK/INTEREST RATE SENSITIVITY

The normal course of business activity exposes the Company to interest rate risk. Fluctuations in interest rates may result in changes in the fair market value of the Company’s financial instruments, cash flows, and net interest income. The asset/liability committee regularly reviews the Company’s exposure to interest rate risk and formulates strategy based on acceptable levels of interest rate risk. The overall objective of this process is to optimize the Company’s financial position, liquidity, and net interest income, while limiting volatility to net interest income from changes in interest rates. The Company uses gap analysis and simulation modeling to measure and manage interest rate sensitivity.

An indicator of interest rate sensitivity is the difference between interest rate sensitive assets and interest rate sensitive liabilities; this difference is known as the interest rate sensitivity gap. In an asset sensitive, or positive, gap position, the amount of interest-earning assets maturing or repricing within a given period exceeds the amount of interest-bearing liabilities maturing or repricing within that same period. Conversely, in a liability sensitive, or negative, gap position, the amount of interest-bearing liabilities maturing or repricing within a given period exceeds the amount of interest-earning assets maturing or repricing within that time period. During a period of rising rates, a negative gap would tend to affect net interest income adversely, while a positive gap would theoretically result in increased net interest income. In a falling rate environment, a negative gap would tend to result in increased net interest income, while a positive gap would affect net interest income adversely. The gap analysis below provides a snapshot of the Company’s interest rate sensitivity position at December 31, 2006.

 

Interest Rate Sensitivity

December 31, 2006

   Repricing Within      
   0 - 3
Months
    4 - 12
Months
    One - Five
Years
    After Five
Years
    Total
(Dollars in thousands)                             

Interest Rate Sensitive Assets

          

Securities1

   $ 15,138     $ 14,089     $ 68,929     $ 29,035     $ 127,191

Loans, gross2

     145,201       19,408       80,545       1,760       246,914

Other assets

     1,077       —           —         1,077
                                      

Total interest rate sensitive assets

     161,416       33,497       149,474       30,795       375,182
                                      

Interest Rate Sensitive Liabilities

          

Deposits3

     190,106       56,206       14,650       10       260,972

Federal funds purchased

     4,684       —         —         —         4,684

U.S. Treasury demand note

     1,905       —         —         —         1,905

Federal Home Loan Bank advances

     —         —         5,000       —         5,000
                                      

Total interest rate sensitive liabilities

     196,695       56,206       19,650       10       272,561
                                      

Interest rate sensitivity gap

   $ (35,279 )   $ (22,709 )   $ 129,824     $ 30,785     $ 102,621
                                      

Cumulative gap

   $ (35,279 )   $ (57,988 )   $ 71,836     $ 102,621    
                                  

Ratio of cumulative gap to total rate sensitive assets

     (9.40 )%     (15.46 )%     19.15 %     27.35 %  
                                  

Ratio of cumulative rate sensitive assets to rate sensitive liabilities

     82.06 %     77.07 %     126.36 %     137.65 %  
                                  

Cumulative gap at December 31, 2005

   $ (50,409 )   $ (59,043 )   $ 71,366     $ 101,779    
                                  

Cumulative gap at December 31, 2004

   $ (59,503 )   $ (71,138 )   $ 54,244     $ 91,758    
                                  

1

Distribution of maturities for available-for sale-securities is based on amortized cost. Additionally, distribution of maturities for mortgage-backed securities is based on expected average lives, which may be different from the contractual terms.

2

No cash flow assumptions other than final contractual maturities have been made for installment loans with fixed rates. Nonaccrual loans are excluded.

3

NOW, money market, and savings account balances are included in the 0-3 months repricing category.

 

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As shown in the table on the prior page, the Company’s cumulative gap position ($ in thousands) remained negative through the short-term repricing intervals at year-end 2006, totaling $(35,279) at three months and $(57,988) through one year. Excluding traditionally nonvolatile NOW from the gap calculation, the cumulative gap at December 31, 2006 totaled $51,358 at three months and $28,649 at twelve months. Compared to 2005, the three-month gap position narrowed 30.00% and the one-year gap, 1.79%, at December 31, 2006. The narrowing of the three-month gap at December 31, 2006 was primarily attributable to increases in variable rate loans tied to prime and securities with original maturities of 90 days or less. Other than seasonal variations, primarily in deposit balances, and extension of maturities in the investment portfolio, no significant changes are anticipated in the gap position during 2007. Shortcomings are inherent in any gap analysis since certain assets and liabilities may not move proportionally as rates change. For example, the gap analysis presumes that all loans2 and securities1 will perform according to their contractual maturities when, in many cases, actual loan terms are much shorter than the original terms and securities are subject to early redemption.

In addition to gap analysis, the Company uses simulation modeling to test the interest rate sensitivity of net interest income and the balance sheet. Contractual maturity and repricing characteristics of loans are incorporated into the model, as are prepayment assumptions, maturity data, and call options within the investment portfolio. Non-maturity deposit accounts are modeled based on past experience. Simulation results quantify interest rate risks under various interest rate scenarios. In estimating the impact of these rate movements on the Company’s net interest income, the following general assumptions were made: a) Spreads on all loans, investment securities, and deposit products remain constant; b) Interest rate movements occur gradually over an extended period versus rapidly; and c) Loans and deposits are projected to grow at constant speeds. Limitations inherent with these assumptions include: a) Certain deposit accounts, in particular, interest-bearing demand deposits, infrequently reprice and historically, have had limited impact on net interest income from a rate perspective; b) In a down rate environment, competitive and other factors constrain timing of rate cuts on other deposit products whereas loans tied to prime and other variable indexes reprice instantaneously and securities with call or other prepayment features are likely to be redeemed prior to stated maturity and replaced at lower rates (lag effect); c) Changes in balance sheet mix, for example, unscheduled pay-offs of large commercial loans, are oftentimes difficult to forecast; and d) Rapid and aggressive rate movements by the Federal Reserve can materially impact estimated results. Management is optimistic that initiatives taken to increase loan production and diversify the securities portfolio have reduced the interest rate sensitivity of net interest income and the balance sheet, and such actions will continue.

The Company has not in the past, but may in the future, utilize interest rate swaps, financial options, financial futures contracts, or other rate protection instruments to reduce interest rate and market risks.

IMPACT OF INFLATION

The effects of inflation on the local economy and the Company’s operating results have been relatively modest the last several years. Because substantially all the Company’s assets and liabilities, including cash, securities, loans, and deposits, are monetary in nature, their values are less sensitive to the effects of inflation than to changing interest rates. As discussed in the preceding section, the Company attempts to control the impact of interest rate fluctuations by managing the relationship between its interest sensitive assets and liabilities.

CAPITAL ADEQUACY

Federal banking regulators have established certain capital adequacy standards required to be maintained by banks and bank holding companies. These regulations define capital as either Tier 1 (primarily realized shareholders’ equity) or Tier 2 (certain debt instruments and a portion of the allowance for loan losses). The Company and SEB are subject to a minimum Tier 1 capital ratio (Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets) of 4%, total capital ratio (Tier 1 plus Tier 2 to risk-weighted assets) of 8%, and Tier 1 leverage ratio (Tier 1 to average quarterly assets) of 4%. To be considered a “well-capitalized” institution, the Tier 1 capital, total capital, and Tier 1 leverage ratios must equal or exceed 6%, 10%, and 5%, respectively. Banks and bank holding companies are prohibited from including unrealized gains and losses on debt securities in the calculation of risk-based capital but are permitted to include up to 45 percent of net unrealized pre-tax holding gains on equity securities in Tier 2 capital. The Company did not have any unrealized gains on equity securities includible in the risk-based capital calculations for any of the periods presented. At December 31, 2006, the Company’s Tier 1, total capital, and Tier 1 leverage ratios totaled 18.36%, 19.61%, and 13.05%. The Company is committed to maintaining its well-capitalized status.

 

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The Company’s capital ratios for the most recent periods are presented in the table on the next page.

 

Capital Ratios

December 31,

   2006     2005     2004     2003     2002  
(Dollars in thousands)                               

Tier 1 capital:

          

Realized shareholders’ equity

   $ 52,784     $ 50,089     $ 48,881     $ 46,599     $ 45,193  

Intangible assets and other adjustments

     (507 )     (565 )     (623 )     (703 )     (853 )
                                        

Total Tier 1 capital

     52,277       49,524       48,258       45,896       44,340  
                                        

Tier 2 capital:

          

Portion of allowance for loan losses

     3,568       3,152       3,201       3,020       2,681  

Allowable long-term debt

     —         —         —         —         —    
                                        

Total Tier 2 capital

     3,568       3,152       3,201       3,020       2,681  
                                        

Total risk-based capital

   $ 55,845     $ 52,676     $ 51,459     $ 48,916     $ 47,021  
                                        

Risk-weighted assets

   $ 284,789     $ 251,024     $ 255,110     $ 240,749     $ 213,596  
                                        

Risk-based ratios:

          

Tier 1 capital

     18.36 %     19.73 %     18.92 %     19.06 %     20.76 %
                                        

Total risk-based capital

     19.61 %     20.98 %     20.17 %     20.32 %     22.01 %
                                        

Tier 1 leverage ratio

     13.05 %     13.10 %     12.34 %     12.56 %     12.14 %
                                        

Realized shareholders’ equity to assets

     12.88 %     12.86 %     12.21 %     12.49 %     12.06 %
                                        

Book value per share grew 6.14% or $0.95 during 2006 to $16.43 at year-end. Dividends declared totaled $1.02, unchanged from 2005, but up 2% or $0.02 from 2004. The Company has traditionally declared regular quarterly dividends and in the fourth quarter, an extra dividend; in 2006, the regular dividends totaled $0.135 per quarter, and the extra dividend, $0.48. Effective the fourth quarter of 2007 and subject to applicable regulatory approval, management anticipates that the extra dividend will become part of the regular quarterly dividend on a pro-rata basis. For more specifics on the Company’s dividend policy, refer to the subsection immediately following. Accumulated other comprehensive income, which measures net fluctuations in the fair values of investment securities, improved a marginal $90,290 at year-end 2006 compared to 2005. Movement in interest rates remained a dominant factor in the fair value results. Further details on investment securities and associated fair values are contained in the Financial Condition section of this Analysis.

Under existing authorization, the Company can purchase up to $10,000,000 in treasury stock. In 2005, the Company purchased 69,147 shares on the open market and through private transactions at an average price of $28.08 per share, and in 2006, an additional 21,402 shares at an average price of $28.00. Since inception in 2000, the Company has purchased 367,197 shares or 11.43% of total outstandings. The remaining consideration available for additional purchases, at prices to be determined in the future, is $2,643,671. Any acquisition of additional shares will be dictated by market conditions. The Share Repurchase Table on page 12 provides more information on the buyback program, including the purchase of 4,000 shares subsequent to year-end 2006.

Refer to the Financial Condition and Liquidity sections of this Analysis for details on planned capital expenditures.

Dividend Policy

The Parent Company is a legal entity separate and distinct from its subsidiaries, and its revenues and liquidity position depend primarily on the payment of dividends from its subsidiaries. State banking regulations limit the amount of dividends SEB may pay without prior approval of the regulatory agencies. In 2006, SEB paid $5,246,040 in dividends to the Company. A $2,000,000 special dividend approved by the regulators enabled the Company, in turn, to pay the extra dividend described in the preceding section. Cash dividends available from SEB for payment in 2007 without similar approval approximate $3,279,000. The Company uses regular dividends paid by SEB in order to pay quarterly dividends to its own shareholders. Management anticipates that the Company will continue to pay cash dividends on a recurring basis.

 

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RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Net income totaled $6,575,016 in 2006, up $100,382 or 1.55% from 2005. On a per share basis, net income grew $0.07 to $2.04 in 2006 from $1.97 in 2005. The return on average assets totaled 1.68% in 2006 versus 1.67% in 2005 and the return on beginning equity, 13.13% versus 13.25%. A 5.55% increase in net interest income was the predominant factor in the 2006 results. Earnings increased $671,170 or 11.56% in 2005 compared to 2004. A $1,335,584 or 7.73% increase in net interest income was the overriding factor in the 2005 results. Variations in net interest income and noninterest income/expense are further discussed in the next two subsections of this Analysis; the provision for loan losses is separately discussed within the Financial Condition section.

Selected ratios for the measurement of net income and equity are presented below:

 

Return on Equity and Assets

Years Ended December 31,1

   2006     2005     2004     2003     2002  

Return on average assets

   1.68 %   1.67 %   1.53 %   1.42 %   1.30 %

Return on average equity

   12.50 %   12.72 %   11.89 %   11.05 %   10.37 %

Dividend payout ratio2

   49.90 %   51.36 %   56.96 %   63.83 %   70.29 %

Average equity to average assets ratio

   13.44 %   13.10 %   12.87 %   12.90 %   12.54 %

1

These ratios exclude the effects of mark-to-market accounting for investment securities.

2

Refer to the Capital Adequacy section of this Analysis for particulars on the Company’s dividend policy.

Net Interest Income

Net interest income increased $1,033,475 or 5.55% in 2006 compared to 2005. The net interest margin approximated 5.65% in 2006 versus 5.40% in 2005; the interest rate spread, 4.83% versus 4.94%. Interest earnings on loans and other earning assets improved $3,947,973 and $14,604 from 2005 while earnings on federal funds sold and investment securities fell $113,744 and $214,259. Overall improvements in asset yields precipitated the 2006 results. Asset yields averaged 7.55% in 2006, up 96 basis points from 2005; see the interest differential table on page 28 for more details on changes in interest income attributable to volume and rates in 2006 versus 2005. Interest expense on deposits and other borrowed funds increased $2,601,099 or 60.94% in 2006 versus 2005. Cost of funds increased 107 basis points from 2005 levels, totaling 2.72% in 2006 versus 1.65% in 2005. The jump in cost of funds resulted from higher rates on all deposit types in 2006 compared to 2005. Given the rate environment currently propelled by the Federal Reserve, management expects costs of funds and corresponding interest expense to continue increasing as deposits and other funds reprice at higher levels. Anticipated loan growth in Brunswick and other markets is expected to alleviate projected declines in margins and spreads. Additionally, because most of the loans in the variable portfolio are tied to prime and similar indexes, the portfolio is positioned to take advantage of rate hikes promulgated by the Federal Reserve; variable loans comprised approximately 55% of total loans at December 31, 2006. Net interest income increased $1,335,584 or 7.73% in 2005 compared to 2004. Improvements in asset yields and, to a lesser extent, shifts in earning assets fueled the 2005 results.

The intense competition for loans and deposits continues in 2006 and shows no sign of abating. The high number of new and existing financial institutions in the Company’s market areas essentially guarantees downward pressure on net interest spreads and margins as all participants struggle to amass and grow market share. Volume of assets and deposits will become even more important as margins decline. Strategies implemented by management to increase average loans outstanding emphasize competitive pricing on loan products and development of additional loan relationships, all without compromising portfolio quality. Management’s strategy for deposits is to closely manage anticipated market increases and maintain a competitive position with respect to pricing and products. Comparative details about average balances, income/expense, and average yields earned and rates paid on interest-earning assets and liabilities for the last three years are provided in the table on the next page.

 

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Average Balances6

Years Ended December 31,

   2006     2005     2004  
  

Average

Balances

   

Income/

Expense

  

Yields/

Rates

   

Average

Balances

   

Income/

Expense

  

Yields/

Rates

   

Average

Balances

   

Income/

Expense

  

Yields/

Rates

 
(Dollars in thousands)                                                    
Assets                      

Cash and due from banks

   $ 19,553          $ 19,316          $ 17,806       

Interest-earning assets:

                     

Loans, net1,2,4

     236,120     $ 21,107    8.94 %     218,211     $ 17,158    7.86 %     210,477     $ 15,048    7.15 %

Federal funds sold

     6,312       311    4.93 %     14,710       424    2.88 %     10,947       147    1.34 %

Taxable investment securities3

     86,889       3,796    4.37 %     92,249       3,831    4.15 %     95,493       4,016    4.21 %

Tax-exempt investment securities3,4

     30,166       1,961    6.50 %     33,423       2,234    6.68 %     34,451       2,310    6.71 %

Other interest-earning assets

     1,102       66    5.99 %     1,150       51    4.43 %     1,005       38    3.78 %
                                                               

Total interest-earning assets

     360,589       27,241    7.55 %     359,743       23,698    6.59 %     352,373       21,559    6.12 %
                                                               

Allowance for loan losses

     (4,272 )          (4,228 )          (4,017 )     

Premises and equipment, net

     9,248            9,086            8,969       

Intangible and other assets

     5,214            4,696            4,083       

Unrealized (losses) gains on investment securities

     (1,463 )          (97 )          1,197       
                                       

Total Assets

   $ 388,869          $ 388,516          $ 380,411       
                                       
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity                      

Noninterest-bearing deposits

   $ 82,372          $ 76,832          $ 67,526       

Interest-bearing liabilities:

                     

Interest-bearing demand deposits5

     87,239     $ 1,960    2.25 %     86,489     $ 1,251    1.45 %     82,001     $ 789    0.96 %

Savings

     75,949       1,273    1.68 %     91,412       825    0.90 %     96,303       857    0.89 %

Time deposits

     82,931       3,269    3.94 %     75,029       1,868    2.49 %     77,378       1,542    1.99 %

Federal funds purchased

     624       35    5.54 %     187       8    4.01 %     99       2    2.12 %

U.S. Treasury demand note

     678       33    4.82 %     560       17    2.96 %     632       8    1.22 %

Federal Home Loan Bank advances

     5,000       300    6.00 %     5,000       300    6.00 %     5,000       300    6.00 %
                                                               

Total interest-bearing liabilities

     252,421       6,870    2.72 %     258,677       4,269    1.65 %     261,413       3,498    1.34 %
                                                               

Other liabilities

     2,461            2,156            1,882       

Realized shareholders’ equity

     52,581            50,912            48,800       

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

     (966 )          (61 )          790       
                                       
                     

Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity

   $ 388,869          $ 388,516          $ 380,411       
                                       

Excess of interest-earning assets over interest-bearing liabilities

   $ 108,168          $ 101,066          $ 90,960       
                                       
Interest rate spread         4.83 %        4.94 %        4.78 %
                                 
Net interest income      $ 20,371        $ 19,429        $ 18,061   
                                 
Net interest margin         5.65 %        5.40 %        5.13 %
                                 

1

Average loans are shown net of unearned income. Nonperforming loans are included. Income on nonaccrual loans, if recognized, is recorded on a cash basis.

2

Interest income includes loan fees and late charges of approximately $1,381,000, $1,262,000, and $1,426,000 in 2006, 2005, and 2004.

3

Securities are presented on an amortized cost basis. Investment securities with original maturities of three months or less are included, as applicable.

4

Interest income on tax-exempt loans and securities is presented on a taxable-equivalent basis, using a federal income tax rate of 34%. The taxable-equivalent amounts included in the above table aggregated approximately $728,000, $819,000, and $786,000 in 2006, 2005, and 2004. No adjustments have been made for any state tax benefits or the nondeductible portion of interest expense.

5

Now and money market accounts.

6

Averages presented generally represent average daily balances.

 

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Analysis of Changes in Net Interest Income

The average balance table on the previous page provides detailed information about average balances, income/expense, and average yields earned and rates paid on interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities for each of the last three years. The table below summarizes the changes in interest income and interest expense attributable to volume and rates in 2006 and 2005.

 

Interest Differential1

Years Ended December 31,

  

2006 Compared to 2005

Increase (Decrease) Due to

   

2005 Compared to 2004

Increase (Decrease) Due to

 
   Volume     Rate     Net     Volume     Rate     Net  
(In thousands)                                     
Interest income             

Loans2,3

   $ 1,480     $ 2,469     $ 3,949     $ 568     $ 1,542     $ 2,110  

Federal funds sold

     (318 )     205       (113 )     64       213       277  

Taxable investment securities

     (229 )     194       (35 )     (135 )     (50 )     (185 )

Tax-exempt investment securities3

     (213 )     (60 )     (273 )     (69 )     (7 )     (76 )

Other interest-earning assets

     (2 )     17       15       6       7       13  
                                                

Total interest income

     718       2,825       3,543       434       1,705       2,139  
                                                
Interest expense             

Interest-bearing demand deposits4

     11       698       709       45       417       462  

Savings

     (159 )     607       448       (44 )     12       (32 )

Time deposits

     214       1,187       1,401       (48 )     374       326  

Federal funds purchased5

     23       4       27       3       3       6  

U.S. Treasury demand note

     4       12       16       (1 )     10       9  

Federal Home Loan Bank advances

     —         —         —         —         —         —    
                                                

Total interest expense

     93       2,508       2,601       (45 )     816       771  
                                                
Net change in net interest income    $ 625     $ 317     $ 942     $ 479     $ 889     $ 1,368  
                                                

1

Changes in net interest income are attributed to either changes in average balances (volume change) or changes in average rates (rate change) for earning assets and sources of funds on which interest is received or paid. Volume change is calculated as change in volume times the previous rate while rate change is change in rate times the previous volume. The rate/volume change, change in rate times change in volume, is allocated between volume change and rate change at the ratio each component bears to the absolute value of their total.

2

Includes loan fees. See the average balances table on the previous page for more details.

3

Interest income on tax-exempt loans and securities is presented on a taxable-equivalent basis, using a federal income tax rate of 34%. No adjustments have been made for any state tax benefits or the nondeductible portion of interest expense.

4

Now and money market accounts.

5

The entire change in net interest income attributable to the Company’s initial borrowings under these credit facilities has been allocated to the change in volume. Similarly, when these facilities are unutilized in subsequent years, the change in net interest income is allocated to the change in volume.

Noninterest Income and Expense

Noninterest income increased $198,859 or 5.63% in 2006 compared to 2005. A $76,541 decline in net losses on investment securities and a $72,158 improvement in service charges on deposit accounts were the main factors in the 2006 results. As discussed in the Financial Condition section of this Analysis, the Company recognized virtually no losses on sales of securities in 2006; in 2005, the Company recognized a $76,750 net loss. The 2006 improvement in service charges was primarily attributable to higher volume of NSF fees. The other operating portion of noninterest income grew $50,160 in 2006 compared to 2005; surcharge fees on ATM transactions led the 3.99% improvement. By type and amount, the chief components of other operating income in 2006 were mortgage origination fees, $426,534; surcharge fees – ATM, $279,437; income on sale of check products, $162,774; commissions on the sale of credit life insurance, $105,547; and safe deposit box rentals, $73,562. Together, these five income items comprised 80.07% of other operating income in 2006. In 2005, these same five income components comprised 82.58% of other operating income. Overall, noninterest expense increased $1,130,137 or 9.06% in 2006 year-to-date. Personnel costs accounted for $465,347 or 41% of the increase. The vast majority, or 84%, of employee expenses remained concentrated in salaries and other direct compensation, including related payroll taxes, in 2006. Profit-sharing accruals and other fringe benefits constituted the remaining 6% and 10% of

 

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employee expenses. The division of employee expenses between compensation, profit sharing, and other fringe benefits remained consistent with historical norms in 2006. Net occupancy and equipment expense increased $242,058 or 9.79% in 2006 after declining 3.22% in 2005. Costs associated with technology programs and renovations at four branch facilities comprised the majority of the 2006 increase. Other operating expenses increased $422,732 or 17.39% in 2006 and declined 5.29% in 2005. A $190,000 adjustment to the book basis of the Yulee facility and a $98,154 increase in advertising expense were the primary variables in the 2006 results. Declines in legal and other professional expenses was the key element in the 2005—2004 fluctuation. Overhead related to the Company’s Southport facility, operational since January 2007, and new core banking software, as discussed in earlier sections of this Analysis, are expected to increase noninterest expense approximately $500,000 in 2007 compared to 2006. Refer to Note 17 of the consolidated financial statements for more details on noninterest income and expense.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Following is a description of the accounting policies applied by the Company that are deemed “critical.” Critical accounting policies are defined as policies that are crucial to the presentation of the Company’s financial condition and results of operations and that require management’s most difficult, subjective, or complex judgments. Financial results could vary significantly if different judgments or estimates are applied in the application of these policies.

Allowance for Loan Losses

The allowance for loan losses represents management’s estimate of losses inherent in the existing loan portfolio. The allowance for loan losses is increased by the provision for loan losses charged to expense and reduced by loans charged-off, net of recoveries. The allowance for loan losses is determined based on management’s assessment of several factors: reviews and evaluations of specific loans, changes in the nature and volume of the loan portfolio, current economic conditions and the related impact on segments of the loan portfolio, historical loan loss experiences, and the level of classified and nonperforming loans.

Loans are considered impaired if, based on current information and events, it is probable the Company will be unable to collect scheduled payments of principal and interest according to the contractual terms of the loan. The measurement of impaired loans is based on either the fair value of the underlying collateral, the present value of the future cash flows discounted at the historical effective interest rate stipulated in the loan agreement, or the estimated market value of the loan. In measuring the fair value of the collateral, management uses assumptions (e.g. discount rate) and methodologies (e.g. comparison to the recent selling price of similar assets) consistent with those that would be utilized by unrelated third parties.

Changes in the financial condition of individual borrowers, economic conditions, historical loan loss experience, or the condition of the various markets in which collateral may be sold may affect the required level of the allowance for loan losses. Should cash flow assumptions or market conditions change, a different amount may be reported for the allowance and associated provision for loan losses. See the Financial Condition section of this Analysis for further details on the allowance for loan losses.

Income Taxes

The preparation of financial statements requires management to estimate its income taxes in each of the jurisdictions in which it operates. This process involves estimating actual current tax exposure and assessing temporary differences resulting from differing treatment of certain items, such as the provision for loan losses, for tax and financial reporting purposes. These differences result in deferred tax assets and liabilities that are included in the consolidated balance sheet.

 

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The Company must assess the likelihood that deferred tax assets will not be recovered from future taxable income, and to the extent recovery is deemed unlikely, establish a valuation allowance. Significant managerial judgment is necessarily required in determining the provision for income taxes, deferred tax assets and liabilities, and any valuation allowance recorded against net deferred tax assets. To the extent a valuation allowance is established or adjusted in a particular period, an expense must be included within the tax provision in the statement of income. See Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements for additional details on income taxes.

Estimates of Fair Value

The estimation of fair value is significant to a number of the Company’s assets, including, but not limited to, investment securities, other real estate, other repossessed assets, as well as intangibles and other long-lived assets. These assets are all recorded at either fair value or at the lower of cost or fair value. Fair values are volatile and may be influenced by a number of factors. Circumstances that could cause estimates of fair values of certain assets and liabilities to change include modifications in prepayment speeds, discount rates, or other market interest rates.

Fair values for most investment securities are based on quoted market prices. If quoted market prices are not available, fair values are based on the quoted prices of similar instruments. The fair values of other real estate are typically determined based on appraisals by third parties, less estimated costs to sell.

Estimates of fair value are also required in performing impairment analyses of goodwill and other intangible assets. The Company reviews intangible assets for impairment at least annually and whenever events or circumstances indicate the carrying value of the assets may not be recoverable. An impairment would be recognized if the carrying value of the asset exceeds its fair value.

Other long-lived assets, including fixed assets, are evaluated regularly for other than temporary impairment. Factors that could trigger impairment include significant underperformance relative to historical or projected future operating results, changes in the use of the acquired assets, and negative industry or economic trends. The review of factors present and the resulting appropriate carrying value of other long-lived assets are subject to managerial judgments and estimates. Future events could cause the Company to conclude that an asset is impaired and a write-down would be appropriate.

RECENT ACCOUNTING DEVELOPMENTS

The provisions of recent pronouncements and the related impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements, if any, are discussed in the Recent Accounting Standards section of Note 1.

Various other accounting proposals affecting the banking industry are pending with the Financial Accounting Standards Board. Given the inherent uncertainty of the proposal process, the Company cannot assess the impact of any such proposals on its financial condition or results of operations.

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Pursuant to The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (the “Act”), the Chief Executive Officer (the “CEO”) and Chief Financial Officer (the “Treasurer”), or persons acting in those capacities, are required to certify the Company’s financial statements. The legislation also requires public companies to report certain off-balance sheet transactions, as well as present any pro-forma disclosures in a straightforward manner. The new legislation also accelerates the required reporting of insider stock transactions, which now generally must be reported by the end of the second business day following a covered transaction; requires that annual reports filed with the SEC include a statement by management asserting that it is responsible for creating and maintaining adequate internal controls and assessing the effectiveness of those controls; and requires companies to disclose whether they have adopted an ethics code for senior financial officers, and if not, why not, and whether the audit committee includes at least one “audit committee financial expert.” The Company believes that it has complied with each of the foregoing requirements except the last. Although the audit committee

 

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includes directors presiding over their own businesses and actively engaged in financial matters, the Company does not believe that any of its current committee members qualify as a financial expert; however, a local certified public accountant well versed in financial matters serves on the audit committee of the Bank, and because all committee meetings are joint and the Bank is the predominant asset of the Company, the Company believes that it complies with the spirit of the Act.

The Code of 1Ethical Conduct for Senior Financial Officers (the “Code”) adopted by the Company applies to the Company’s treasurer as well as other financial officers. The Company’s CEO has executed an affirmation whereby he has agreed to abide by all provisions and requirements stated in the Code. A full text of the Code is available without charge upon written request to Southeastern Banking Corporation, Attention: Corporate Secretary, P.O. Box 455, 1010 Northway, Darien, Georgia 31305.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the “Act”) provides a safe harbor for forward-looking statements made by or on behalf of the Company. The Company and its representatives have made, and may continue to make, various written or oral forward-looking statements with respect to business and financial matters, including statements contained in this report, filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, and press releases. Generally, the words “believe,” “expect,” “intend,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “project,” “will,” “should,” and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. All statements which address operating performance, events or developments that we expect or anticipate will occur in the future, including statements related to loan growth, deposit growth, per share growth, and statements expressing general sentiment about future operating results and non-historical information, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Act. The forward-looking statements are and will be based on management’s then current views and assumptions regarding future events and operating performance. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements in light of new information or future events.

Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Certain factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from estimates contained in or underlying forward-looking statements include:

 

   

Competitive pressures between depository and other financial institutions may increase significantly.

 

   

Changes in the interest rate environment may reduce margins and impact funding sources.

 

   

General economic or business conditions in the geographic regions and industry in which the Company operates may lead to a deterioration in credit quality or a reduced demand for credit.

 

   

Legislative or regulatory changes, including changes in accounting standards, monetary policies, and taxation requirements, may adversely affect the Company’s business.

Other factors include:

 

   

Changes in consumer spending and saving habits as well as real estate markets.

 

   

Management of costs associated with expansion of existing and development of new distribution channels, and ability to realize increased revenues from these distribution channels.

 

   

The outcome of litigation which depends on judicial interpretations of law and findings of juries.

 

   

The effect of mergers, acquisitions, and/or dispositions and their integration into the Company.

 

   

Other risks and uncertainties as detailed from time to time in Company filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The foregoing list of factors is not exclusive. Many of the factors that will determine actual financial performance and values are beyond the Company’s ability to predict or control. This Analysis should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes.

 

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Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk.

The discussion on market risk is included in the Interest Rate and Market Risk/Interest Rate Sensitivity section of Part II, Item 7.

 

Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.

The response to this item commences on page 34. Selected Statistical Information is included within the management discussion in Part II, Item 7. Both the financial information and statistical information presented should be read in conjunction with the accompanying management discussion of Southeastern Banking Corporation and subsidiaries.

Quarterly Results (Unaudited)

The following tables set forth certain consolidated quarterly financial information. This information is derived from unaudited consolidated financial statements which include, in the opinion of management, all normal recurring adjustments necessary for a fair presentation. The results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of trends or results for any future period.

 

Selected Quarterly Financial Data

2006 Quarter Ended

   December 31    September 30    June 30    March 31
(Dollars in thousands except per share data)                    

Interest income

   $ 7,036    $ 6,687    $ 6,569    $ 6,222

Interest expense

     2,144      1,778      1,588      1,359

Net interest income

     4,892      4,909      4,981      4,863

Provision for loan losses

     50      —        —        60

Income before income tax expense

     2,274      2,437      2,569      2,384

Net income

     1,568      1,646      1,730      1,630

Basic earnings per common share

   $ 0.49    $ 0.51    $ 0.54    $ 0.50
                           

 

Selected Quarterly Financial Data

2005 Quarter Ended

   December 31     September 30    June 30    March 31
(Dollars in thousands except per share data)                     

Interest income

   $ 5,929     $ 5,837    $ 5,728    $ 5,385

Interest expense

     1,173       1,076      1,040      980

Net interest income

     4,756       4,761      4,688      4,405

Provision for loan losses

     81       33      133      93

Investment securities gains (losses), net

     (77 )     —        —        —  

Income before income tax expense

     2,598       2,494      2,257      1,982

Net income

     1,832       1,701      1,563      1,379

Basic earnings per common share

   $ 0.56     $ 0.52    $ 0.47    $ 0.42
                            

 

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LOGO

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED

PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors

Southeastern Banking Corporation

Darien, Georgia

We have audited the consolidated balance sheets of Southeastern Banking Corporation and Subsidiary as of December 31, 2006 and 2005, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, stockholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2006. 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 audit 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. 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 Southeastern Banking Corporation and Subsidiary, as of December 31, 2006 and 2005, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2006, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

 

/s/ Mauldin & Jenkins, LLC

Albany, Georgia

March 31, 2007

 

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Table of Contents

Consolidated Balance Sheets

 

December 31,

   2006     2005  

Assets

    

Cash and due from banks

   $ 23,410,228     $ 21,587,266  

Federal funds sold

     —         15,003,000  
                

Cash and cash equivalents

     23,410,228       36,590,266  

Investment securities

    

Available-for-sale, at market value

     93,490,850       82,791,294  

Held-to-maturity (market value of approximately $33,233,000 and $35,381,000 at December 31, 2006 and 2005)

     32,795,375       34,584,741  
                

Total investment securities

     126,286,225       117,376,035  

Loans, gross

     247,877,870       223,947,365  

Unearned income

     (112,437 )     (155,731 )

Allowance for loan losses

     (4,239,966 )     (4,311,007 )
                

Loans, net

     243,525,467       219,480,627  

Premises and equipment, net

     9,842,875       8,817,550  

Intangible assets

     506,490       564,704  

Other assets

     6,730,771       5,861,990  
                

Total Assets

   $ 410,302,056     $ 388,691,172  
                

Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity

    

Liabilities

    

Deposits

    

Noninterest-bearing deposits

   $ 80,979,450     $ 79,750,623  

Interest-bearing deposits

     260,971,580       249,050,465  
                

Total deposits

     341,951,030       328,801,088  

Federal funds purchased

     4,684,000       —    

U.S. Treasury demand note

     1,905,141       1,355,559  

Federal Home Loan Bank advances

     5,000,000       5,000,000  

Other liabilities

     4,575,699       4,133,625  
                

Total liabilities

     358,115,870       339,290,272  
                

Commitments and Contingencies (Notes 13 and 18)

    

Shareholders’ Equity

    

Common stock ($1.25 par value; 10,000,000 shares authorized; 3,580,797 shares issued; 3,213,600 and 3,235,002 shares outstanding at

    

December 31, 2006 and 2005)

     4,475,996       4,475,996  

Additional paid-in capital

     1,391,723       1,391,723  

Retained earnings

     54,272,250       50,977,998  

Treasury stock, at cost (367,197 and 345,795 shares at December 31, 2006 and 2005)

     (7,356,329 )     (6,757,073 )
                

Realized shareholders’ equity

     52,783,640       50,088,644  

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

     (597,454 )     (687,744 )
                

Total shareholders’ equity

     52,186,186       49,400,900  
                

Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity

   $ 410,302,056     $ 388,691,172  
                

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

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Table of Contents

Consolidated Statements of Income

 

Years Ended December 31,

   2006     2005     2004

Interest income

      

Loans, including fees

   $ 21,041,352     $ 17,093,379     $ 15,047,828

Federal funds sold

     310,741       424,485       146,876

Investment securities

      

Taxable

     3,795,586       3,830,722       4,015,885

Tax-exempt

     1,299,926       1,479,049       1,524,713

Other assets

     65,855       51,251       37,807
                      

Total interest income

     26,513,460       22,878,886       20,773,109
                      

Interest expense

      

Deposits

     6,502,304       3,944,385       3,187,705

Federal funds purchased

     34,586       7,503       2,102

U.S. Treasury demand note

     32,728       16,631       7,697

Federal Home Loan Bank advances

     300,111       300,111       300,933
                      

Total interest expense

     6,869,729       4,268,630       3,498,437
                      

Net interest income

     19,643,731       18,610,256       17,274,672

Provision for loan losses

     109,500       339,833       807,483
                      

Net interest income after provision for loan losses

     19,534,231       18,270,423       16,467,189
                      

Noninterest income

      

Service charges on deposit accounts

     2,419,575       2,347,417       2,519,435

Investment securities (losses) gains, net

     (209 )     (76,750 )     124,094

Other operating income

     1,308,685       1,258,525       1,217,094
                      

Total noninterest income

     3,728,051       3,529,192       3,860,623
                      

Noninterest expense

      

Salaries and employee benefits

     8,029,093       7,563,746       6,881,293

Occupancy and equipment, net

     2,715,570       2,473,512       2,555,720

Other operating expense

     2,853,520       2,430,788       2,566,565
                      

Total noninterest expense

     13,598,183       12,468,046       12,003,578
                      

Income before income tax expense

     9,664,099       9,331,569       8,324,234

Income tax expense

     3,089,083       2,856,935       2,520,770
                      

Net income

   $ 6,575,016     $ 6,474,634     $ 5,803,464
                      

Basic earnings per common share

   $ 2.04     $ 1.97     $ 1.75
                      

Weighted average common shares outstanding

     3,223,104       3,286,428       3,308,807

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

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Table of Contents

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity

 

    

Common

Stock

  

Additional

Paid-In

Capital

  

Retained

Earnings

   

Treasury

Stock

   

Accumulated

Other

Comprehensive

Income (Loss)

    Total  

Balance, December 31, 2003

   $ 4,475,996    $ 1,391,723    $ 45,330,975     $ (4,600,167 )   $ 1,166,730     $ 47,765,257  

Comprehensive income:

              

Net income

     —        —        5,803,464       —         —         5,803,464  

Change in unrealized gains on available-for-sale securities, net of tax effect of $415,055

     —        —        —         —         (805,695 )     (805,695 )
                    

Total comprehensive income

                 4,997,769  
                    

Cash dividends declared ($1.00 per share)

     —        —        (3,305,803 )     —         —         (3,305,803 )

Purchase of treasury stock

     —        —        —         (215,462 )     —         (215,462 )
                                              

Balance, December 31, 2004

     4,475,996      1,391,723      47,828,636       (4,815,629 )     361,035       49,241,761  

Comprehensive income:

              

Net income

     —        —        6,474,634       —         —         6,474,634  

Change in unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities, net of tax effect of $540,279

     —        —        —         —         (1,048,779 )     (1,048,779 )
                    

Total comprehensive income

                 5,425,855  
                    

Cash dividends declared

($1.02 per share)

     —        —        (3,325,272 )     —         —         (3,325,272 )

Purchase of treasury stock

     —        —        —         (1,941,444 )     —         (1,941,444 )
                                              

Balance, December 31, 2005

     4,475,996      1,391,723      50,977,998       (6,757,073 )     (687,744 )     49,400,900  

Comprehensive income:

              

Net income

     —        —        6,575,016       —         —         6,575,016  

Change in unrealized losses on available-for-sale securities, net of tax effect of $46,511

     —        —        —         —         90,290       90,290  
                    

Total comprehensive income

                 6,665,306  
                    

Cash dividends declared ($1.02 per share)

     —        —        (3,280,764 )     —         —         (3,280,764 )

Purchase of treasury stock

     —        —        —         (599,256 )     —         (599,256 )
                                              

Balance, December 31, 2006

   $ 4,475,996    $ 1,391,723    $ 54,272,250     $ (7,356,329 )   $ (597,454 )   $ 52,186,186  
                                              

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

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Table of Contents

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

 

Years Ended December 31,

   2006     2005     2004  

Operating activities

      

Net income

   $ 6,575,016     $ 6,474,634     $ 5,803,464  

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

      

Provision for loan losses

     109,500       339,833       807,483  

Depreciation

     614,506       761,269       794,704  

Amortization and accretion, net

     159,982       381,799       693,041  

Deferred income tax benefit

     (76,263 )     (69,674 )     (134,139 )

Investment securities losses (gains), net

     209       76,750       (124,094 )

Net gains on sales of other real estate

     (14,868 )     (94,323 )     (103,114 )

Changes in assets and liabilities:

      

(Increase) decrease in other assets

     (759,058 )     (286,221 )     241,664  

Increase (decrease) in other liabilities

     503,761       369,992       (59,442 )
                        

Net cash provided by operating activities

     7,112,785       7,954,059       7,919,567  
                        

Investing activities

      

Principal collections and maturities of investment securities:

      

Available-for-sale

     73,610,509       47,161,870       42,406,420  

Held-to-maturity

     3,803,800       3,729,600       2,227,500  

Proceeds from sales of available-for-sale investment securities

     9,991,333       7,296,375       5,826,122  

Purchases of available-for-sale investment securities

     (94,125,010 )     (55,818,378 )     (38,738,847 )

Purchases of held-to-maturity investment securities

     (2,135,000 )     (1,438,414 )     (1,926,441 )

Net increase in loans

     (24,371,657 )     (5,517,826 )     (13,516,845 )

Proceeds from sales of other real estate

     131,215       384,113       85,954  

Capital expenditures, net

     (1,639,831 )     (324,439 )     (1,115,329 )
                        

Net cash used in investing activities

     (34,734,641 )     (4,527,099 )     (4,751,466 )
                        

Financing activities

      

Net increase (decrease) in deposits

     13,149,942       (10,508,802 )     22,346,398  

Net increase in federal funds purchased

     4,684,000       —         —    

Net increase (decrease) in U.S. Treasury demand note

     549,582       (75,652 )     697,275  

Purchase of treasury stock

     (599,256 )     (1,941,444 )     (215,462 )

Dividends paid

     (3,342,450 )     (3,352,315 )     (3,360,734 )
                        

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

     14,441,818       (15,878,213 )     19,467,477  
                        

Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents

     (13,180,038 )     (12,451,253 )     22,635,578  

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

     36,590,266       49,041,519       26,405,941  
                        

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

   $ 23,410,228     $ 36,590,266     $ 49,041,519  
                        

Supplemental disclosure

      

Cash paid during the year

      

Interest

   $ 6,308,053     $ 4,146,341     $ 3,608,413  

Income taxes

     3,550,000       2,920,000       2,620,000  

Noncash investing and financing activities

      

Broker receivable for security sales

     —       $ (4,373,125 )   $ 4,373,125  

Broker payable for security purchases

     —         (1,981,680 )     1,981,680  

Real estate acquired through foreclosure

   $ 331,137       318,027       494,215  

Loans made in connection with sales of foreclosed real estate

     86,905       224,668       307,579  

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

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Table of Contents

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements

 

1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Nature of Operations

Southeastern Banking Corporation is a bank holding company whose principal activity is the ownership and management of its wholly-owned commercial bank subsidiary, Southeastern Bank (the “Bank”). The Company operates within one business segment, community banking, providing a full range of services to individual, corporate, and government customers in southeast Georgia and northeast Florida. The Company is headquartered in Darien, Georgia.

In November 2004, the Company opened a full service branch facility at 755 Scranton Road in Brunswick, Georgia and closed its loan production office that opened in 2003. The Company opened a second Brunswick facility at 601 Palisade Drive in January 2007.

Basis of Presentation and Accounting Estimates

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiary. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. Operating results of branches acquired are included from the date of acquisition. Assets and liabilities of branches acquired are stated at estimated fair values at the date of acquisition.

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in accordance 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, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could vary from these estimates. Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant change pertain to the determination of the allowance for loan losses, the valuation of other real estate, and the measurement of contingent assets and liabilities.

Cash, Due from Banks, and Cash Flows

For purposes of reporting cash flows, cash and cash equivalents include cash and due from banks and federal funds sold. Cash flows from loans, federal funds sold, federal funds purchased, and deposits are reported net.

The Company is required to maintain reserve balances in cash or on deposit with the Federal Reserve Bank based on a percentage of deposits. Reserve balances totaled approximately $12,611,000 and $10,391,000 at December 31, 2006 and 2005.

Investment Securities

Debt securities that management has the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity are classified as held-to-maturity and recorded at amortized cost. Securities not classified as held-to-maturity, including equity securities with readily determinable fair values, are classified as available-for-sale and recorded at fair value with unrealized gains and losses excluded from earnings and reported in accumulated other comprehensive income, net of any tax effect. Equity securities without readily determinable fair values are included in other assets and recorded at cost.

The amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts are recognized in interest income using methods approximating the interest method over the lives of the securities. Realized gains and losses on the sale of securities, determined using the specific identification method, are included in earnings on the trade date. Other-than-temporary declines in the fair value of securities below cost are reflected in earnings as realized losses. In estimating other-than-temporary impairment losses, managements considers (1) the length of time and the extent to which fair value has been less than cost, (2) the financial condition and

 

39


Table of Contents

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements

 

near-term prospects of the issuer, and (3) the Company’s ability to retain its investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for any fair value recovery.

Loans

Loans are reported at their principal balances outstanding, net of unearned income and the allowance for loan losses. Interest income accrued on unpaid principal balances is generally recognized on a level-yield basis. Interest accrual is discontinued when it appears that future collection of principal or interest according to contractual terms may be doubtful. The Company classifies a loan as nonaccrual with the occurrence of one of the following events: (i) interest or principal has been in default 90 days or more, unless the loan is well-collateralized and in the process of collection; (ii) collection of recorded interest or principal is not anticipated; or (iii) income for the loan is recognized on a cash basis due to deterioration in the financial condition of the borrower. Accrued interest on any loan placed on nonaccrual status is reversed. Cash receipts on nonaccrual loans are applied first to outstanding principal balances and secondly to interest. The loan is returned to accrual status only when all of the principal and interest amounts contractually due are brought current and the borrower has demonstrated the ability to make scheduled payments.

Management considers a loan to be impaired when it is probable the Company will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan. Loans classified as nonaccrual generally meet the criteria to be considered impaired loans. The Company typically measures the impairment of a loan by either the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate, the loan’s obtainable market price, or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral-dependent. The amount of impairment is considered in evaluating the overall adequacy of the allowance for loan losses. Personal uncollateralized loans are typically charged-off no later than 90 days past due and credit card loans no later than 120 days past due.

Accounting principles normally require loan origination fees and certain direct loan origination costs to be capitalized and recognized as an adjustment to the yields on the related loans. As the net amount of loan origination fees for the years ended December 31, 2006, 2005, and 2004 was not significant, no amounts have been capitalized or deferred.

Allowance for Loan Losses

The Company’s allowance for loan losses is that amount considered adequate to absorb potential losses in the loan portfolio based on management’s evaluation of the size and current risk characteristics of the portfolio. Such evaluations consider the level of problem loans and prior loan loss experience as well as the impact of current economic conditions, portfolio concentrations, and other risk factors. Specific allowances are established for impaired loans based on a comparison of the recorded carrying value of the loan to either the present value of the loan’s expected cash flow, the loan’s estimated market price, or the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral. General allowances are established for loans that can be grouped into pools based on similar characteristics. In this process, general allowance factors are based on the results of a statistical loss analysis and other analyses of recent and historical charge-off experience and are typically applied to the portfolio in terms of loan type and internal risk ratings. The general economic conditions and other risk elements are based on marketplace conditions that are impacting borrowers and could affect the collectibility of loans.

Premises and Equipment

Land is carried at cost. Premises and equipment are carried at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation is calculated primarily using the straight-line method over the assets’ estimated useful lives:

 

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Table of Contents

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Years

           
Buildings   39    
Furniture and Equipment   3 –7    

Construction-in-progress primarily includes branch expansion, branch renovation, and software projects. Upon completion, branch-related projects are maintained in buildings and equipment while software projects are reclassified to equipment. Maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred, while improvements are capitalized.

Long-lived assets, including certain fixed assets, are evaluated regularly for other-than-temporary impairment. If circumstances suggest that the value of such assets may be impaired and a write-down would be material, an assessment of recoverability is performed prior to any write-down. Impairment, if any, is recognized through a valuation allowance with a corresponding charge recorded in the income statement. The Company did not consider any of its long-lived assets to be impaired at December 31, 2006 and 2005.

Other Real Estate

Other real estate represents properties acquired through, or in lieu of, foreclosure and also includes any property owned that was formerly used as a branch facility. Other real estate is held for sale and is initially recorded at the lower of cost or fair value less estimated selling expenses. Any write-down to fair value at foreclosure is charged to the allowance for loan losses. Provisions for subsequent devaluation of other real estate are charged to operations, while costs associated with improving the property are capitalized. The carrying amount of other real estate was $287,947 and $186,976 at December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively.

Intangible Assets

Intangible assets comprise goodwill and core deposit intangibles. Goodwill represents the excess of purchase price over the fair value of identifiable net assets of acquired companies. Goodwill is not amortized but instead is tested for impairment annually, or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable. If impaired, the excess of the carrying amount over fair value would be charged to earnings. Based on impairment tests performed, the Company determined its goodwill was not impaired as of December 31, 2006 or 2005.

Core deposit intangibles are being amortized over useful lives ranging from 10-15 years. Amortization periods are reviewed annually or more frequently as circumstances dictate.

Income Taxes

The provision for income taxes is based on income and expense reported for financial statement purposes after adjustment for permanent differences such as tax-exempt income. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities result from temporary differences between assets and liabilities measured differently for financial reporting and income tax return purposes. These assets and liabilities are measured using the enacted tax rates and laws that are currently in effect. A valuation allowance is recognized for a deferred tax asset if, based on the weight of available evidence, some portion or the entire deferred tax asset will likely not be realized. Subsequent changes in tax laws require adjustment to these assets and liabilities with the cumulative effect included in income from continuing operations for the period in which the change was enacted.

Earnings Per Share

Basic earnings per share are based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during each period. The Company does not have any dilutive securities.

 

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Table of Contents

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Comprehensive Income

Comprehensive income, which includes certain transactions and other economic events that bypass the income statements, consists of net income and unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities, net of income taxes.

Recent Accounting Standards

In June 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued FASB Interpretation (“FIN”) No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes,” a clarification of SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes.” FIN 48 provides a single model to address accounting for uncertainty in tax positions by prescribing a recognition threshold that an individual tax position must meet before being recognized in the financial statements. FIN 48 also provides guidance on derecognition, measurement, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure, and transition. FIN 48 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2006 with the cumulative effect of adopting FIN 48 recorded in equity. Adoption of this interpretation is not expected to have a significant impact on the consolidated financial statements.

In March 2006, the FASB issued SFAS NO. 156, “Accounting for Servicing of Financial Assets – an amendment of FASB Statement NO. 140.” This statement requires that all separately recognized servicing rights be initially measured at fair value. Subsequently, an entity may either recognize its servicing rights at fair value or amortize its servicing rights over an estimated life and assess any impairment at least quarterly. SFAS No. 156 also amends how gains and losses are computed in transfers or securitizations that qualify for sale treatment in which the transferor retains the right to service the transferred financial asset. Additional disclosures for all separately recognized servicing rights are also required. This statement is effective for fiscal years beginning after September 15, 2006. SFAS No. 156 applies to loan participations sold by the Company to non-affiliated banks. In accordance with SFAS No. 156, the Company will initially measure servicing rights at fair value with any changes reported in earnings at least quarterly. The Company adopted the provisions of SFAS No. 156 effective January 1, 2007, and the adoption did not have a material impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements.” This statement provides enhanced guidance for using fair value to measure assets and liabilities. The statement also responds to investors’ requests for expanded information about the extent to which companies measure assets and liabilities at fair value, the information used to measure fair value, and the effect of fair value measurements on earnings. The statement applies whenever other statements require or permit assets or liabilities to be measured at fair value. The statement does not expand the use of fair value in any new circumstances. SFAS 157 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of SFAS 157 on its financial position and results of operations.

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.” SFAS 159 permits companies to fair value certain financial assets and liabilities on an instrument-by-instrument basis with changes in fair value recognized in earnings as they occur. The election to fair value a financial asset or liability is generally irrevocable. This statement is effective January 1, 2007 for calendar year companies. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of SFAS 159 on its financial position and results of operations.

 

2. INVESTMENT SECURITIES

The amortized cost and estimated fair value of investment securities are summarized on the next page.

 

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Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements

 

December 31, 2006

  

Amortized

Cost

   Gross
Unrealized
Gains
   Gross
Unrealized
Losses
  

Fair

Value

Available-for-sale:

           

U. S. Government-sponsored agencies

   $ 61,543,580    $ 28,515    $ 572,272    $ 60,999,823

Mortgage-backed securities

     23,205,236      36,479      586,188      22,655,527

Corporate bonds

     9,647,269      244,344      56,113      9,835,500
                           
     94,396,085      309,338      1,214,573      93,490,850
                           

Held-to-maturity:

           

State and municipal securities

     32,795,375      642,878      205,545      33,232,708
                           

Total investment securities

   $ 127,191,460    $ 952,216    $ 1,420,118    $ 126,723,558
                           

 

December 31, 2005

  

Amortized

Cost

   Gross
Unrealized
Gains
   Gross
Unrealized
Losses
  

Fair

Value

Available-for-sale:

           

U. S. Government-sponsored agencies

   $ 46,667,851    $ —      $ 722,094    $ 45,945,757

Mortgage-backed securities

     29,013,617      67,473      796,323      28,284,767

Corporate bonds

     8,151,862      436,201      27,293      8,560,770
                           
     83,833,330      503,674      1,545,710      82,791,294
                           

Held-to-maturity:

           

State and municipal securities

     34,584,741      952,968      156,966      35,380,743
                           

Total investment securities

   $ 118,418,071    $ 1,456,642    $ 1,702,676    $ 118,172,037
                           

The amortized cost and fair value of debt securities by contractual maturity at December 31, 2006 are shown in the table below. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because issuers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without penalties.

 

     Available-for-Sale    Held-to-Maturity

December 31, 2006

  

Amortized

Cost

  

Fair

Value

  

Amortized

Cost

  

Fair

Value

Due within one year

   $ 26,989,460    $ 26,888,266    $ 816,242    $ 814,653

Due from one to five years

     37,232,648      36,979,300      10,481,893      10,642,110

Due from five to ten years

     6,434,847      6,433,307      14,743,826      14,927,356

Due after ten years

     533,894      534,450      6,753,414      6,848,589
                           
     71,190,849      70,835,323      32,795,375      33,232,708

Mortgage-backed securities

     23,205,236      22,655,527      —        —  
                           
   $ 94,396,085    $ 93,490,850    $ 32,795,375    $ 33,232,708
                           

Securities with carrying values of $87,143,925 and $77,387,910 at December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively, were pledged to secure public deposits and other funds, including advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta (Note 9).

Realized gains and losses on sales and other redemptions of securities comprised the following:

 

Years Ended December 31,

   2006     2005     2004  

Gross gains

   $ —       $ —       $ 246,521  

Gross losses

     (209 )     (76,750 )     (122,427 )
                        

Net realized (losses) gains

   $ (209 )   $ (76,750 )   $ 124,094  
                        

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

The tax provision applicable to these net realized (losses) gains approximated $(84), $(30,700), and $49,600 in 2006, 2005, and 2004. No securities held-to-maturity were sold in 2006, 2005, and 2004.

Securities with unrealized losses at December 31 were as follows:

 

     Less than Twelve Months    Twelve Months or More

December 31, 2006

  

Gross

Unrealized

Losses

  

Fair

Value

   Gross
Unrealized
Losses
  

Fair

Value

Available-for-sale:

           

U. S. Government-sponsored agencies

   $ 8,283    $ 2,554,005    $ 563,989    $ 38,571,550

Mortgage-backed securities

     —        —        586,188      20,236,713

Corporate bonds

     25,621      2,014,400      30,492      1,075,500
                           
     33,904      4,568,405      1,180,669      59,883,763
                           

Held-to-maturity:

           

State and municipal securities

     74,966      4,674,648      130,579      5,047,183
                           

Total temporarily impaired securities

   $ 108,870    $ 9,243,053    $ 1,311,248    $ 64,930,946
                           

Market changes in interest rates will result in temporary unrealized losses as a normal fluctuation in the price of securities. Unrealized losses within the portfolio resulted primarily from increases in interest rates on securities purchased in prior years. At December 31, 2006, 130 of the Company’s 283 debt securities had unrealized losses with aggregate depreciation of 1.88% from their amortized cost bases; at December 31, 2005, 121 of 288 debt securities had unrealized losses with aggregate depreciation of 2.15% from their amortized cost basis. At December 31, 2006, 109 or $64,930,946 of the Company’s debt securities had been in a continuous unrealized loss position for twelve months or more. Only 51 or 17.71% of the Company’s debt securities had been in a continuous unrealized loss position for twelve months or more at December 31, 2005. Interest rate increases during 2006 rather than credit quality was the significant factor in these unrealized losses. Except for ten non-rated Georgia municipals, these securities were all highly rated, investment grade securities. In analyzing non-rated municipals, management considers debt service coverage and whether the bonds support essential services such as water/sewer systems and education. The Company has determined that there were no other-than-temporary impairments associated with these securities at December 31, 2006 and 2005.

 

3. LOANS

The composition of the Company’s loan portfolio is shown in the table below:

 

December 31,

   2006     2005  

Commercial, financial and agricultural

   $ 87,255,342     $ 86,255,524  

Real estate – construction

     104,212,014       64,549,524  

Real estate – residential mortgage

     39,339,464       58,215,245  

Consumer, including credit cards

     17,071,050       14,927,072  
                

Loans, gross

     247,877,870       223,947,365  

Unearned income

     (112,437 )     (155,731 )

Allowance for loan losses

     (4,239,966 )     (4,311,007 )
                

Loans, net

   $ 243,525,467     $ 219,480,627  
                

Nonaccrual and restructured loans totaled approximately $964,000 and $1,285,000 at December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively. Included in the allowance for loan losses was approximately $150,000 and $43,000 pertaining to such loans at December 31, 2006 and 2005. The gross amount of interest income that would have been recorded in 2006, 2005, and

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

2004, if such loans had been accruing interest at their contractual rates, was $95,000, $99,000, and $154,000; interest income actually recognized totaled $58,000, $65,000, and $155,000. Nonaccrual and restructured loans averaged approximately $1,067,000, $1,059,000, and $1,241,000 in 2006, 2005, and 2004. Loans past due ninety days or more and still accruing interest approximated $647,000 and $579,000 at December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively.

In the normal course of business, the Bank has made loans at prevailing interest rates and terms to directors, executive officers, and principal shareholders of the Company and its subsidiaries, and to their affiliates. The aggregate dollar amount of these loans, as defined, approximated $8,162,000 at December 31, 2006 and $1,373,000 at December 31, 2005. During 2006, approximately $7,785,000 of such loans were made and $996,000 repaid.

 

4. ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES

Activity in the allowance for loan losses is summarized below:

 

Years Ended December 31,

   2006     2005     2004  

Balance, beginning of year

   $ 4,311,007     $ 4,134,048     $ 3,832,651  

Provision for loan losses

     109,500       339,833       807,483  

Charge-offs

     (364,259 )     (415,862 )     (756,804 )

Recoveries

     183,718       252,988       250,718  
                        

Balance, end of year

   $ 4,239,966     $ 4,311,007     $ 4,134,048  
                        

 

5. PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT

Premises and equipment are summarized as follows:

 

December 31,

   2006     2005  

Land

   $ 3,431,311     $ 3,431,311  

Buildings

     8,053,197       8,148,077  

Furniture and equipment

     6,036,272       5,989,171  

Construction-in-progress, estimated cost to complete $3,150,000

     1,343,827       43,470  
                
     18,864,607       17,612,029  

Accumulated depreciation and amortization

     (9,021,732 )     (8,794,479 )
                

Premises and equipment, net

   $ 9,842,875     $ 8,817,550  
                

The Company owned all its facilities and equipment at December 31, 2006 except for one branch facility, an office suite, and various ATM facilities and computer hardware that were leased short-term. Depreciation and amortization of premises and equipment totaled $614,506, $761,269, and $794,704 in 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively. Rent expense associated with operating leases on facilities and equipment approximated $150,900, $145,500, and $136,500 in 2006, 2005, and 2004. The Company had no capital leases at December 31, 2006.

 

6. INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Intangible assets are tested for impairment on an annual basis or more frequently, as circumstances dictate. The Company completed its annual review as of October 1, 2006 and determined no intangible assets were impaired as of that date. A summary of information related to acquired intangible assets, including goodwill, is shown on the next page.

 

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     Goodwill   

Core

Deposit

Intangibles

 

Balance, December 31, 2003

   $ 256,775    $ 446,023  

Amortization

     —        (79,880 )
               

Balance, December 31, 2004

   $ 256,775    $ 366,143  

Amortization

     —        (58,214 )
               

Balance, December 31, 2005

   $ 256,775    $ 307,929  

Amortization

     —        (58,214 )
               

Balance, December 31, 2006

   $ 256,775    $ 249,715  
               

Estimated amortization expense for the next five years, all pertaining to core deposit intangibles, is as follows:

 

2007

   $ 58,214

2008

     58,214

2009

     58,214

2010

     58,214

2011

     16,026

Thereafter

     833
      

Total

   $ 249,715
      

 

7. INTEREST-BEARING DEPOSITS

Interest-bearing deposits consisted of the following:

 

December 31,

   2006    2005

Interest-bearing demand deposits (NOW and money market)

   $ 97,304,880    $ 93,954,129

Savings

     69,800,154      82,107,344

Time certificates under $100,000

     54,418,419      46,891,068

Time certificates of $100,000 or more

     39,448,127      26,097,924
             

Total interest-bearing deposits

   $ 260,971,580    $ 249,050,465
             

Interest expense on time certificates of $100,000 or more approximated $1,376,000, $758,000, and $562,000 in 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively.

Scheduled maturities of time certificates at December 31, 2006 were as follows:

 

2007

   $ 79,206,109

2008

     6,198,107

2009

     3,693,332

2010

     1,825,259

2011

     2,933,739

Thereafter

     10,000
      

Total

   $ 93,866,546
      

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

The Company had no brokered deposits at December 31, 2006; brokered deposits totaled $594,000 at December 31, 2005. At December 31, 2006 and 2005, deposits of one local governmental body comprised approximately $37,045,000 and $31,527,000 of the deposit base, respectively. Overdraft demand deposits reclassified to loans totaled $138,944 and $177,753 at December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively.

 

8. SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS

Short-term borrowings at December 31 included:

 

December 31,

   2006     2005  
     Balance    Rate     Balance    Rate  

U.S. Treasury demand notes

   $ 1,905,141    5.06 %   $ 1,355,559    4.02 %

At December 31, 2006, $23,000,000 in unsecured lines of credit from non-affiliated banks was available to meet general liquidity needs. At December 31, 2006, $4,684,000 was drawn against these lines; no amounts were drawn against these lines at December 31, 2005. The average balances of short-term borrowings for the years ended December 31, 2006 and 2005 were $1,302,000 and $747,000 respectively, while the maximum amounts outstanding at any month-end during the years ended December 31, 2006 and 2005 were $6,589,000 and $2,277,000, respectively.

 

9. OTHER BORROWINGS

The Company has a line of credit from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta (the “FHLB”) to meet general liquidity and other needs. Under this line, the Company can borrow, in total or increments, up to 16% of the Bank’s total assets; at December 31, 2006, maximum borrowings available under this line approximated $65,439,000. Advances outstanding with the FHLB totaled $5,000,000 at December 31, 2006 and 2005. The outstanding advance, which matures March 17, 2010, accrues interest at an effective rate of 6.00%, payable quarterly. The $5,000,000 advance is convertible into a three-month Libor-based floating rate anytime at the option of the FHLB. The advance was secured by mortgage-backed securities with an aggregate carrying value of $5,201,103 at December 31, 2006.

 

10. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLAN

The Company maintains a profit-sharing plan which covers substantially all employees. Historically, employee contributions to the plan were not permitted. Effective January 1, 2005, the Company amended the plan to include a 401(k) component for eligible employees. Eligible employees can elect to participate in the plan through contributions of the lesser of deferral limits ($15,500 in 2007 and $15,000 in 2006) or 80% of their total compensation plus any allowed catch-up contribution. The Company will match the employee’s contribution in an amount equal to a discretionary percentage of the employee’s contribution as determined each year. Matching contributions vest to the employee when made by the Company. Any additional profit-sharing contributions are allocated to participants based on compensation and years of service. In 2006 and prior years, these contributions vested equally over a five-year period after the employee reached three years of service; effective January 1, 2007, these contributions vest equally over a five-year period after the employee reaches two years of service. Total contributions expensed under this plan totaled $450,000 in each of the last three years.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

11. INCOME TAXES

The components of income tax expense were as follows:

 

Years ended December 31,

   2006     2005     2004  

Federal:

      

Current tax expense

   $ 2,829,447     $ 2,649,834     $ 2,381,768  

Deferred tax benefit

     (76,263 )     (69,674 )     (134,139 )
                        
     2,753,184       2,580,160       2,247,629  
State:       

Current tax expense

     335,899       276,775       273,141  
                        

Total income tax expense

   $ 3,089,083     $ 2,856,935     $ 2,520,770  
                        

The Company’s income tax expense differs from the amounts computed by applying the statutory federal income tax rate of 34% to income before income taxes. A reconciliation of this difference follows:

 

Years ended December 31,

   2006     2005     2004  

Taxes at federal statutory rate

   $ 3,285,794     $ 3,172,733     $ 2,830,240  

(Decrease) increase resulting from:

      

Tax-exempt interest income, net

     (443,122 )     (516,075 )     (513,764 )

State income taxes, net of federal benefit

     221,694       182,672       180,273  

Other, net

     24,717       17,605       24,021  
                        

Total income tax expense

   $ 3,089,083     $ 2,856,935     $ 2,520,770  
                        

Temporary differences create deferred tax assets and liabilities that are detailed below:

 

December 31,

   2006     2005  
Deferred tax assets (liabilities):     

Allowance for loan losses

   $ 1,146,925     $ 1,109,695  

Fixed assets

     66,163       —    

Other real estate

     1,360       6,027  

Unrealized losses on available-for-sale investment securities, net

     307,780       354,291  

Accretion of discounts on investment securities

     (92,144 )     (62,541 )

Other

     24,395       17,255  
                

Net deferred tax asset

   $ 1,454,479     $ 1,424,727  
                

The Company has not recorded any valuation allowances for deferred tax assets.

 

12. TREASURY STOCK

Under existing authorization, the Company can purchase up to $10,000,000 in treasury stock. In 2005, the Company purchased 69,147 shares on the open market and through private transactions at an average price of $28.08 per share. In 2006, the Company purchased an additional 21,402 shares at a purchase price of $28.00. Since inception in 2000, the treasury stock program has reduced the Company’s outstanding stock from 3,580,797 shares to 3,213,600 shares. The remaining consideration available for additional purchases, at prices to be determined in the future, is $2,643,671. Any acquisition of additional shares will be dictated by market conditions. There is no expiration date for the treasury authorization.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

13. COMMITMENTS AND OFF-BALANCE SHEET FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Loan Commitments

In the normal course of business, the Company originates financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk to meet the financing needs of its customers. These financial instruments include commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit. Commitments to extend credit represent legally binding agreements to lend to a customer with fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses. The amount of collateral obtained is based on management’s credit evaluation of the customer. Collateral held varies but may include accounts receivable, inventory, and property, plant and equipment. Standby letters of credit are conditional commitments issued by the Company guaranteeing the performance of a customer to a third party. The credit risk involved in issuing letters of credit is essentially the same as that involved in extending loans to customers. Collateral is obtained when deemed necessary. The Company uses the same credit policies in making commitments as it does for on-balance sheet instruments. Since many commitments expire without being funded, total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future credit exposure or liquidity requirements. The majority of all commitments are variable rate instruments. A summary of the Company’s commitments follows:

 

December 31,

   2006    2005

Commitments to extend credit

   $ 57,551,000    $ 38,672,000

Standby letters of credit

     2,906,000      1,470,000
             

Total commitments

   $ 60,457,000    $ 40,142,000
             

The Company did not fund or incur any losses on letters of credit in 2006 and 2005.

Other Off-Balance Sheet Financial Instruments

The Company does not invest in off-balance sheet derivative financial instruments such as swaps, options or forward contracts.

 

14. CONCENTRATIONS OF CREDIT RISK

Credit risk represents the maximum accounting loss that would be recognized at the reporting date if borrowers failed to perform as contracted and any collateral or security proved to be of no value. Concentrations of credit risk arising from financial instruments, whether on- or off-balance sheet, can exist in relation to individual borrowers or groups of borrowers, certain types of collateral, certain types of industries, or market areas. Credit risk associated with these concentrations could arise when a significant amount of loans, related by similar characteristics, are simultaneously impacted by changes in economic or other conditions that cause their probability of repayment to be adversely affected. Within the investment portfolio, the Company does not have a concentration in the obligations of any issuer other than the U.S. Government and its agencies. The major concentrations of credit risk in loans and loan commitments arise by collateral type and market areas. The majority of the Company’s loan portfolio is concentrated in loans collateralized by real estate. At December 31, 2006, the Company had approximately $199,312,000 in real estate-collateralized loans, and an additional $42,547,000 commitment to extend credit on such loans. Substantial portions of these loans are in the Company’s primary market areas. In addition, a substantial portion of the Company’s other real estate is located in those same markets. Accordingly, the ultimate collectibility of the Company’s loan portfolio and recovery of the carrying amount of other real estate are susceptible to changes in market conditions in the Company’s trade areas. The Company, as a matter of policy, generally does not extend credit to any single borrower or group of related borrowers in excess of 25% of the Bank’s statutory capital.

 

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15. REGULATORY MATTERS

The Company is subject to various regulatory capital requirements which involve quantitative measures of the Company’s assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance sheet items. The Company’s capital requirements and classification are ultimately subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings, and other factors. The Company and the Bank are subject to a minimum Tier 1 capital ratio (Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets) of 4%, total capital ratio (Tier 1 plus Tier 2 to risk-weighted assets) of 8%, and Tier 1 leverage ratio (Tier 1 to average quarterly assets) of 4%. To be considered a “well-capitalized” institution, the Tier 1 capital ratio, the total capital ratio, and the Tier1 leverage ratio must equal or exceed 6%, 10%, and 5%, respectively. The Company is committed to remaining well-capitalized. As of December 31, 2006, the most recent notification from the Georgia Department of Banking and Finance categorized the Bank as well-capitalized under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action. Management believes that the Company and the Bank met all applicable capital adequacy requirements as of December 31, 2006. No conditions or events have occurred since that notification that management believes would change this classification. Actual capital amounts and ratios are presented in the table below:

 

December 31,

   2006     2005  
     Amount    Rate     Amount    Rate  
Southeastern Banking Corporation:           

Tier 1 capital

   $ 52,277,000    18.36 %   $ 49,524,000    19.73 %

Total capital

     55,845,000    19.61 %     52,676,000    20.98 %

Tier 1 leverage

     52,277,000    13.05 %     49,524,000    13.10 %
Southeastern Bank:           

Tier 1 capital

   $ 48,354,000    17.06 %   $ 46,983,000    18.74 %

Total capital

     51,906,000    18.31 %     50,132,000    19.99 %

Tier 1 leverage

     48,354,000    12.12 %     46,983,000    12.43 %
                          

State banking regulations limit the amount of dividends the Bank may pay without prior approval. The amount of cash dividends available from the Bank for payment in 2007 without such prior approval is approximately $3,279,000.

 

16. FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

The fair value of a financial instrument is the current amount that would be exchanged between willing parties except in a forced liquidation. Fair value is best determined using quoted market prices. In cases where quoted market prices are not available, fair values are based on pricing models or other valuation techniques. Those techniques are significantly affected by the assumptions used, including discount rates and cash flow analyses. Accordingly, the fair value estimates may not be indicative of the amounts the Company could realize in a current market exchange. The use of different market assumptions and/or estimation methodologies could have a material effect on estimated fair values.

The following methods and assumptions were used by the Company in estimating the fair value of financial instruments:

 

   

Short-term financial instruments are valued at their carrying amounts reported in the balance sheet, which are reasonable estimates of fair value due to the relatively short period to maturity. This approach applies to cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, short-term borrowings, and certain other assets and liabilities.

 

   

Investment securities are substantially valued at quoted market prices. If quoted market prices are not available, fair values are estimated using quoted market prices for similar securities.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

   

Fair values for variable-rate loans that reprice frequently and have no significant change in credit risk approximate carrying values. For other loans, fair values are based upon discounted cash flow analyses, using interest rates currently being offered for loans with similar terms to borrowers of similar credit quality. Fair values for impaired loans are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses or underlying collateral values, as applicable.

 

   

Deposit liabilities with no defined maturity such as demand deposits, NOW/money market accounts, and savings accounts have a fair value equal to the amount payable on demand at the reporting date, i.e., their carrying amounts. Fair values for certificates of deposit are estimated using a discounted cash flow calculation that applies current interest rates to a schedule of aggregated expected maturities. The intangible value of long-term relationships with depositors is not considered in estimating fair values.

 

   

Fair values for other borrowings are based on quoted market prices for similar instruments or estimated using the Company’s current incremental borrowing rate for such instruments.

 

   

The carrying amount of accrued interest approximates its fair value.

The following table presents the carrying amounts and estimated fair values of the Company’s financial instruments:

 

December 31,

   2006    2005
    

Carrying

Value

  

Fair

Value

  

Carrying

Value

  

Fair

Value

Financial assets:            

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 23,410,228    $ 23,410,228    $ 36,590,266    $ 36,590,266

Investment securities

     126,286,225      126,723,558      117,376,035      118,172,037

Loans, net

     243,525,467      241,915,696      219,480,627      217,467,319

Accrued interest receivable

     2,741,294      2,741,294      2,384,233      2,384,233

Other financial assets

     1,076,900      1,076,900      1,101,100      1,101,100
Financial liabilities:            

Deposits

   $ 341,951,030    $ 341,546,794    $ 328,801,088    $ 328,057,633

Federal funds purchased

     4,684,000      4,684,000      —        —  

U.S. Treasury demand note

     1,905,141      1,905,141      1,355,559      1,355,559

FHLB advances

     5,000,000      5,148,734      5,000,000      5,244,917

Accrued interest payable

     1,250,695      1,250,695      691,019      691,019

Other financial liabilities

     —        —        —        —  
                           

Because SFAS No. 107, “Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments,” excludes certain financial instruments and all nonfinancial instruments from its disclosure requirements, the aggregate fair value amounts presented may not necessarily represent the underlying market value of the Company.

 

17. SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCIAL DATA

Components of other operating income and expense in excess of 1% of total revenue were as follows:

 

Years Ended December 31,

   2006    2005    2004
Other operating income:               

Mortgage origination fees

   $ 426,534    $ 497,348    $ 452,651
Other operating expense:         

Advertising

   $ 341,438    $ 243,284    $ 238,377

Stationery & supplies

     222,034      268,559      241,508
                    

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

18. CONTINGENCIES

The Company and its subsidiaries are parties to claims and lawsuits arising in the course of their normal business activities. Although the ultimate outcome of these suits cannot be ascertained at this time, it is the opinion of management and counsel that none of these matters, when resolved, will have a material effect on the consolidated results of operations or financial position.

 

19. PARENT COMPANY FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Parent Company only financial information is presented below:

Condensed Balance Sheets

 

December 31,

   2006     2005  
Assets     

Cash

   $ 4,533,323     $ 4,125,742  

Available-for-sale investment security

     1,004,800       —    

Investment in subsidiaries, at equity

     48,321,401       46,905,367  

Other assets

     303,027       407,842  
                
Total Assets    $ 54,162,551     $ 51,438,951  
                
Liabilities     

Dividends payable

   $ 1,976,365     $ 2,038,051  
                
Shareholders’ Equity     

Common stock

     4,475,996       4,475,996  

Additional paid-in capital

     1,391,723       1,391,723  

Retained earnings

     54,272,250       50,977,998  

Treasury stock, at cost

     (7,356,329 )     (6,757,073 )
                

Realized shareholders’ equity

     52,783,640       50,088,644  

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

     (597,454 )     (687,744 )
                

Total shareholders’ equity

     52,186,186       49,400,900  
                
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity    $ 54,162,551     $ 51,438,951  
                

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Condensed Statements of Income

 

Years Ended December 31,

   2006    2005     2004  

Income

       

Dividends

   $ 5,246,040    $ 4,912,640     $ 4,611,000  

Interest

     85,672      28,605       19,785  

Equity in undistributed income of subsidiaries

     1,312,432      1,579,449       1,214,855  
                       

Total income

     6,644,144      6,520,694       5,845,640  
                       

Operating expenses

       

Occupancy and other expenses

     63,044      59,865       58,252  
                       

Income before income tax expense (benefit)

     6,581,100      6,460,829       5,787,388  

Income tax expense (benefit)

     6,084      (13,805 )     (16,076 )
                       

Net income

   $ 6,575,016    $ 6,474,634     $ 5,803,464  
                       

Condensed Statements of Cash Flows

 

Years Ended December 31,

   2006     2005     2004  

Operating activities

      

Net income

   $ 6,575,016     $ 6,474,634     $ 5,803,464  

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

      

Amortization

     2,131       —         —    

Equity in undistributed income of subsidiaries

     (1,312,432 )     (1,579,449 )     (1,214,855 )

Changes in assets and liabilities:

      

Decrease (increase) in other assets

     111,672       26,182       (68,323 )
                        

Net cash provided by operating activities

     5,376,387       4,921,367       4,520,286  
                        

Investing activities

      

Purchase of available-for-sale investment security

     (1,027,100 )     —         —    
                        

Financing activities

      

Purchase of treasury stock

     (599,256 )     (1,941,444 )     (215,462 )

Dividends paid

     (3,342,450 )     (3,352,315 )     (3,360,734 )
                        

Net cash used in financing activities

     (3,941,706 )     (5,293,759 )     (3,576,196 )
                        

Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents

     407,581       (372,392 )     944,090  

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

     4,125,742       4,498,134       3,554,044  
                        

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

   $ 4,533,323     $ 4,125,742     $ 4,498,134  
                        

 

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Item 9. Change s in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosures.

None

 

Item 9A. Controls and Procedures.

The Company’s management, with the participation of the Company’s CEO and Treasurer, has evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) or 15(d)-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, the CEO and Treasurer have concluded that the Company’s current disclosure controls and procedures, as designed and implemented, were effective.

 

Item 9B. Other Information

None

PART III

 

Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers, and Corporate Governance.

The information required by this Item is incorporated by reference to the disclosures on page 31and the Company’s definitive Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held June 13, 2007 (“Proxy Statement”).

 

Item 11. Executive Compensation.

The information required by this Item is incorporated by reference to the Company’s Proxy Statement.

Supplemental Disclosure/Compensation Pursuant to Plans. The Company maintains an Employee Profit-Sharing Plan (“Plan”). The purpose of the Plan is to provide employees with an opportunity to share in the profits generated by participating subsidiaries and save for retirement on a tax-deferred basis. A participating employee (“Participant”) is eligible to participate once the age requirement specified in the Plan has been met. Historically, contributions by Participants were not permitted. Effective January 1, 2005, the Company amended the Plan to include a 401(k) component for eligible employees. Eligible employees can elect to participate in the Plan through contributions of the lesser of deferral limits ($15,000 in 2006 and $14,000 in 2005) or 80% of their total compensation plus any allowed catch-up contribution. The Company will match the employee’s contribution in an amount equal to a discretionary percentage of the employee’s contribution as determined each year. Matching contributions vest to the employee when made by the Company. Any additional profit-sharing contributions are allocated to participants based on compensation and years of service. In 2006 and prior years, these contributions vested equally over a five-year period after the employee reached three years of service; effective January 1, 2007, these contributions vest equally over a five-year period after the employee reaches two years of service. Immediate vesting applies when employment is terminated due to normal retirement at age 65 or later, disability, or death.

Contributions are placed in a trust account, and each Participant’s balance is adjusted daily to reflect these contributions, income received from trust assets, and any forfeitures which become available. When employment is terminated, a Participant with a vested benefit in excess of $1,000 may choose to receive his benefits in a lump sum or remain in the Plan. A Participant with a vested benefit of $1,000 or less will receive a lump sum payment.

 

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The Plan is administered by the Company. A trustee appointed by the Company has the sole responsibility to administer the trust assets. Both the Company and the trustee are considered fiduciaries of the Plan and have the corresponding duties, obligations, and responsibilities.

 

Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Shareholder Matters.

The information required by this Item is incorporated by reference to the Company’s Proxy Statement.

 

Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence.

The information required by this Item is incorporated by reference to the Company’s Proxy Statement.

 

Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services.

The information required by this Item is incorporated by reference to the Company’s Proxy Statement.

 

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PART IV

 

Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules.

 

  (a) 1. and 2.—Financial Statements and Schedules

 

Index to Financial Statements & Schedules

   Page Number in
Annual Report

Audited Financial Statements

  

Independent auditors’ report

   34

Consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2006 and 2005

   35

Consolidated statements of income for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2006

   36

Consolidated statements of shareholders’ equity for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2006

   37

Consolidated statements of cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2006

   38

Notes to consolidated financial statements

   39

 

  (b) Reports on Form 8-K:

   None

 

  (c) Index to Exhibits:

 

Exhibit   3    Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws, incorporated by reference from the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1990.

Exhibit 21

   Subsidiaries of the Company

Exhibit 22

   Registrant’s Proxy Statement relating to the 2006 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, which will be filed in May 2007.

Exhibit 31.1

   CEO Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

Exhibit 31.2

   Treasurer Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

Exhibit 32

   CEO/Treasurer Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

 

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Signatures

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

 

SOUTHEASTERN BANKING CORPORATION

(Registrant)

By:  

/s/ ALYSON G. BEASLEY

  Alyson G. Beasley, Vice President & Treasurer

Date: April 17, 2007

 

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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 and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

Directors

 

Date

/s/ ALYSON G. BEASLEY

  April 17, 2007
Alyson G. Beasley  

/s/ DAVID H. BLUESTEIN

  April 17, 2007
David H. Bluestein  

/s/ CORNELIUS P. HOLLAND, III

  April 17, 2007
Cornelius P. Holland, III  

/s/ ALVA J. HOPKINS, III

  April 17, 2007
Alva J. Hopkins, III  

/s/ A. W. STRICKLAND

  April 17, 2007
A. W. Strickland  

 

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