Mercantile Bank Corp: Form 10-Q for the period ended Jun 30, 2024

Forward Looking Statements

This report contains forward-looking statements that are based on management’s beliefs, assumptions, current expectations, estimates and projections about the financial services industry, the economy, and our company. Words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “projects,” “indicates,” “strategy,” “future,” “likely,” “may,” “should,” “will,” and variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions (“Future Factors”) that are difficult to predict with regard to timing, extent, likelihood and degree of occurrence. Therefore, actual results and outcomes may materially differ from what may be expressed or forecasted in such forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to update, amend, or clarify forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events (whether anticipated or unanticipated), or otherwise.

Future Factors include, among others, adverse changes in interest rates and interest rate relationships; increasing rates of inflation and slower growth rates or recession; significant declines in the value of commercial real estate; market volatility; demand for products and services; climate impacts; labor markets; the degree of competition by traditional and non-traditional financial services companies; changes in banking regulation or actions by bank regulators; changes in tax laws and other laws and regulations applicable to us; changes in prices, levies, and assessments; the impact of technological advances; potential cyber-attacks, information security breaches, and other criminal activities; litigation liabilities; governmental and regulatory policy changes; the outcomes of existing or future contingencies; trends in customer behavior as well as their ability to repay loans; changes in local real estate values; damage to our reputation resulting from adverse publicity, regulatory actions, litigation, operational failures, and the failure to meet client expectations and other facts; the transition from Libor to SOFR; changes in the national and local economies; unstable political and economic environments; disease outbreaks, such as the Covid-19 pandemic or similar public health threats, and measures implemented to combat them; and other risk factors, including those described in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023. These are representative of the Future Factors that could cause a difference between an ultimate actual outcome and a forward-looking statement.

Introduction

The following discussion compares the financial condition of Mercantile Bank Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries, including Mercantile Community Partners, LLC ("MCP") and Mercantile Bank (“our bank”) and its subsidiaries, including Mercantile Insurance Center, Inc. at June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023 and the results of operations for the six months ended June 30, 2024 and June 30, 2023. This discussion should be read in conjunction with the interim consolidated financial statements and footnotes included in this report. Unless the text clearly suggests otherwise, references in this report to “us,” “we,” “our” or “the company” include Mercantile Bank Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries referred to above.

Critical Accounting Policies

Accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) are complex and require us to apply significant judgment to various accounting, reporting and disclosure matters. We must use assumptions and estimates to apply these principles where actual measurements are not possible or practical. This Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations should be read in conjunction with our unaudited financial statements included in this report. For a discussion of our significant accounting estimates, see Note 1 of the Notes to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 (Commission file number 000-26719). Our critical accounting policies are highly dependent upon subjective or complex judgments, assumptions and estimates. Changes in such estimates may have a significant impact on the financial statements, and actual results may differ from those estimates. We have reviewed the application of these policies with the Audit Committee of our Board of Directors.

Allowance for Credit Losses (“allowance”): The allowance is maintained at a level we believe is adequate to absorb estimated credit losses identified and expected in the loan portfolio. Our evaluation of the adequacy of the allowance is an estimate based on historical credit loss experience, the nature and volume of the loan portfolio, information about specific borrower situations and estimated collateral values, guidance from bank regulatory agencies, and assessments of the impact of current and anticipated economic conditions on the loan portfolio. Allocations of the allowance may be made for specific loans, but the entire allowance is available for any loan that, in our judgment, should be charged-off. Credit losses are charged against the allowance when we believe the uncollectability of a loan is likely. The balance of the allowance represents our best estimate, but significant downturns in circumstances relating to loan quality or economic conditions could result in a requirement for an increased allowance in the future. Likewise, an upturn in loan quality or improved economic conditions may result in a decline in the required allowance in the future. In either instance, unanticipated changes could have a significant impact on the allowance and operating results. The allowance is increased through a provision charged to operating expense. Uncollectable loans are charged-off through the allowance, while recoveries of loans previously charged-off are added to the allowance.

See Note 1- Significant Accounting Policies in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for further detailed descriptions of our estimation process and methodology related to the allowance. See also Note 3 – Loans and Allowance for Credit Losses in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for further information regarding our loan portfolio and allowance.

Mortgage Servicing Rights: Mortgage servicing rights are recognized as assets based on the allocated fair value of retained servicing rights on loans sold. Servicing rights are carried at the lower of amortized cost or fair value and are expensed in proportion to, and over the period of, estimated net servicing income. We utilize a discounted cash flow model to determine the value of our servicing rights. The valuation model utilizes mortgage loan prepayment speeds, the remaining life of the mortgage loan pool, delinquency rates, our cost to service loans, and other factors to determine the cash flow that we will receive from servicing each grouping of loans. These cash flows are then discounted based on current interest rate assumptions to arrive at the fair value of the right to service those loans. Impairment is evaluated quarterly based on the fair value of the servicing rights, using groupings of the underlying loans classified by interest rates. Any impairment of a grouping is reported as a valuation allowance.

Goodwill: Accounting rules require us to determine the fair value of all the assets and liabilities of an acquired entity, and to record their fair value on the date of acquisition. We employ a variety of means in determining fair value, including the use of discounted cash flow analysis, market comparisons and projected future revenue streams. For those items for which we conclude that we have the appropriate expertise to determine fair value, we may choose to use our own calculation of fair value. In other cases, where the fair value is not readily determined, consultation with outside parties is used to determine fair value. Once valuations have been determined, the net difference between the price paid for the acquired entity and the fair value of the balance sheet is recorded as goodwill. Goodwill is assessed at least annually for impairment, with any such impairment recognized in the period identified. A more frequent assessment is performed if there are material changes in the market place or within the organizational structure.

Financial Overview

We reported net income of $18.8 million, or $1.17 per diluted share, for the second quarter of 2024, compared with net income of $20.4 million, or $1.27 per diluted share, during the second quarter of 2023. Net income during the first six months of 2024 totaled $40.3 million, or $2.50 per diluted share, compared to $41.3 million, or $2.58 per diluted share, during the first six months of 2023.

While noninterest income increased during both periods, net income was negatively impacted by higher provisions for credit losses and increased noninterest expenses. Net interest income levels were relatively similar in both comparable periods.

Commercial loans increased $118 million during the first six months of 2024, providing for an annualized growth rate of about 7%. Multi-family and residential rental property loans increased $56.8 million, in large part reflecting draws on multi-family construction loans, while non-owner occupied commercial real estate (“CRE”) loans grew $23.4 million, and commercial and industrial loans increased $21.2 million. As a percent of total commercial loans, commercial and industrial loans and owner occupied CRE loans combined equaled 56.8% as of June 30, 2024, compared to 57.7% at December 31, 2023. The commercial loan pipeline remains strong, and as of June 30, 2024, we had $320 million in unfunded loan commitments on commercial construction and development loans that are in the construction phase.

Residential mortgage loans increased $12.2 million during the first six months of 2024, representing an annualized growth rate of about 3%. Residential mortgage loan originations totaled $203 million during the first six months of 2024, of which almost 75% were originated with the intent to sell.

The overall quality of our loan portfolio remains strong, with nonperforming loans equaling 0.21% of total loans as of June 30, 2024. Accruing loans past due 30 to 89 days remain very low, and we had no foreclosed properties at quarter end. Gross loan charge-offs totaled less than $0.1 million during the first six months of 2024, while recoveries of prior period loan charge-offs aggregated $0.7 million.

We recorded a provision expense of $3.5 million and $4.8 million during the second quarter and first six months of 2024, respectively. The second quarter 2024 provision expense primarily reflects a specific allocation associated with a nonperforming nonreal-estate-related commercial loan relationship and allocations necessitated by net loan growth, which were partially mitigated by lower baseline reserve allocations stemming from ongoing low levels of loan charge-offs. The first six months’ provision expense also includes a specific allocation recorded during the first quarter of 2024 for a different nonperforming nonreal-estate-related commercial loan relationship.

Interest-earning deposits, a vast majority of which is comprised of funds on deposit with the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, averaged $166 million during the first six months of 2024, compared to $48.1 million during the first six months of 2023. The higher average balance primarily reflects an increase in deposits and our desire to maintain higher levels of on balance sheet liquidity.

Total deposits increased $246 million during the first six months of 2024, providing for an annualized growth rate of about 13%. Growth in money market deposit accounts and local time deposits more than offset a reduction in business noninterest-bearing checking accounts reflecting the customary level of customers’ tax and bonus payments and partnership distributions during the early part of each first quarter. Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis (“FHLBI”) advances declined $40.8 million during the first six months of 2024. Wholesale funds, comprised of out-of-area deposits and FHLBI advances, totaled $580 million, or about 12% of total funds, as of June 30, 2024.

Net interest income declined $0.5 million and $1.5 million during the second quarter and first six months of 2024, respectively, compared to the same prior-year time periods, reflecting the net impact of $13.0 million and $29.2 million increases in interest income and $13.5 million and $30.7 million increases in interest expense, during the respective periods. Our net interest margin declined 42 basis points and 48 basis points during the second quarter and first six months of 2024, respectively, compared to the same prior-year time periods. Although our yield on earning assets increased 46 basis points and 58 basis points, respectively, during those time periods, our cost of funds was up 88 basis points and 106 basis points, respectively. While we experienced rapid growth in our earning asset yield during the period of March of 2022 through July of 2023 when the Federal Open Market Committee (“FOMC”) raised the targeted federal funds rate by 525 basis points, meaningful increases in our cost of funds did not begin to materialize until the latter part of 2022 when competition for deposit balances increased deposit rates, and depositors began to move funds from no- and lower-costing deposit types to higher-costing deposit products. Our net interest margin peaked during the latter part of 2022 and early stages of 2023.

Noninterest income totaled $9.7 million and $20.5 million during the second quarter and first six months of 2024, respectively, compared to $7.6 million and $14.6 million during the second quarter and first six months of 2023, respectively. The higher level of noninterest income during both time periods primarily stemmed from increases in service charges on deposit accounts, primarily reflecting growth in treasury management fees, and mortgage banking income. Growth in interest rate swap income benefited noninterest income during both time periods, while revenue associated with a private equity investment positively impacted noninterest income during the first six months of 2024. Benefit claims on bank owned life insurance policies were recorded during the first quarter of 2024.

Noninterest expense totaled $29.7 million and $59.7 million during the second quarter and first six months of 2024, respectively, compared to $27.8 million and $56.4 million during the second quarter and first six months of 2023, respectively. The higher level of noninterest expense primarily resulted from increased compensation and benefit costs along with higher data processing expenses. Contributions to The Mercantile Bank Foundation ("Foundation") totaled $0.7 million during the first six months of 2024.

Financial Condition

Our total assets increased $249 million during the first six months of 2024, and totaled $5.60 billion as of June 30, 2024. Total loans increased $134 million, interest-earning deposits were up $75.6 million and securities available for sale grew $30.8 million. Total deposits increased $246 million, while FHLBI advances decreased $40.8 million during the first six months of 2024.

Commercial loans increased $118 million during the first six months of 2024, providing for an annualized growth rate of about 7%. Multi-family and residential rental property loans increased $56.8 million, in large part reflecting draws on multi-family construction loans, while non-owner occupied CRE loans grew $23.4 million, and commercial and industrial loans increased $21.2 million. As a percent of total commercial loans, commercial and industrial loans and owner occupied CRE loans combined equaled 56.8% as of June 30, 2024, compared to 57.7% at December 31, 2023. Commercial loans totaled $3.53 billion, or 79.6% of total loans, as of June 30, 2024, compared to $3.42 billion, or 79.4% of total loans, as of December 31, 2023.

As of June 30, 2024, we had $320 million in unfunded loan commitments on commercial construction and development loans that are in the construction phase, which we expect to be drawn over the next 12 to 18 months. Our current pipeline reports indicate continued strong commercial loan funding opportunities in future periods, including approximately $255 million in new lending commitments, a majority of which we expect to be accepted and funded over the next 12 to 18 months. Our commercial bankers also report ongoing additional opportunities they are currently discussing with existing and potentially new borrowers. We remain committed to prudent underwriting standards that provide for an appropriate yield and risk relationship, as well as concentration limits we have established within our commercial loan portfolio. Usage of existing commercial lines of credit averaged about 40% during the first six months of 2024, unchanged from the average during all of 2023.

Residential mortgage loans increased $12.2 million during the first six months of 2024, representing an annualized growth rate of about 3%. Residential mortgage loan originations totaled $203 million during the first six months of 2024, of which almost 75% were originated with the intent to sell. Residential mortgage loan originations totaled $190 million during the first six months of 2023, of which about 40% were originated with the intent to sell. In mid-2023, we altered our residential mortgage loan pricing strategy to encourage borrowers to select fixed rate residential mortgage loan products that we could sell rather than selecting adjustable rate residential mortgage loan products that we had to fund on our balance sheet. The strategy not only provided for less residential mortgage loans being funded on our balance sheet, but also resulted in higher mortgage banking income.

Other consumer-related loans totaled $55.3 million, or 1.2% of total loans, at June 30, 2024, compared to $51.1 million, or 1.1% of total loans, as of December 31, 2023. We expect this loan portfolio segment to remain relatively stable in dollar amount but decline as a percentage of total loans in future periods as the commercial loan segment grows.

Our credit policies establish guidelines to manage credit risk and asset quality. These guidelines include loan review and early identification of problem loans to provide effective loan portfolio administration. The credit policies and procedures are meant to minimize the risk and uncertainties inherent in lending. In following these policies and procedures, we must rely on estimates, appraisals and evaluations of loans and the possibility that changes in these could occur quickly because of changing economic conditions or other factors. Identified problem loans, which exhibit characteristics (financial or otherwise) that could cause the loans to become nonperforming or require modification in the future, are included on an internal watch list. Senior management and the Board of Directors review this list regularly. Market value estimates of collateral on nonperforming loans, as well as on foreclosed and repossessed assets, are reviewed periodically. We also have a process in place to monitor whether value estimates at each quarter-end are reflective of current market conditions. Our credit policies establish criteria for obtaining appraisals and determining internal value estimates. We may also adjust outside and internal valuations based on identifiable trends within our markets, such as recent sales of similar properties or assets, listing prices and offers received. In addition, we may discount certain appraised and internal value estimates to address distressed market conditions.

Nonperforming loans totaled $9.1 million, or 0.2% of total loans, as of June 30, 2024, compared to $3.4 million, or 0.1% of total loans, as of December 31, 2023. Nonperforming assets, comprised of nonaccrual loans, loans past due 90 days or more and accruing interest and foreclosed properties, totaled $9.1 million (0.2% of total assets) as of June 30, 2024, compared to $3.6 million (0.1% of total assets) as of December 31, 2023. The volume of nonperforming assets has remained under 0.3% of total assets since year-end 2015. Given the low levels of nonperforming loans and accruing loans 30 to 89 days delinquent, combined with what we believe are strong credit administration practices, we are pleased with the overall quality of the loan portfolio.

During the first six months of 2024, loan charge-offs totaled less than $0.1 million, while recoveries of prior period loan charge-offs equaled $0.7 million. We continue our collection efforts on charged-off loans and expect to record recoveries in future periods; however, given the nature of these efforts, it is not practical to forecast the dollar amount and timing of the recoveries.

The primary risk elements with respect to commercial loans are the financial condition of the borrower, the sufficiency of collateral, and timeliness of scheduled payments. We have a policy of requesting and reviewing periodic financial statements from commercial loan customers, and we have a disciplined and formalized review of the existence of collateral and its value. The primary risk element with respect to each residential mortgage loan and consumer loan is the timeliness of scheduled payments. We have a reporting system that monitors past due loans and have adopted policies to pursue creditors’ rights in order to preserve our collateral position.

See Note 1- Significant Accounting Policies in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for further detailed descriptions of our estimation process and methodology related to the allowance. See also Note 3 – Loans and Allowance for Credit Losses in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for further information regarding our loan portfolio and allowance.

The allowance equaled $55.4 million, or 1.25% of total loans and 607% of nonperforming loans, as of June 30, 2024. As of June 30, 2024, the allowance was comprised of $49.1 million in general reserves relating to performing loans and $6.3 million in specific reserves on other loans, primarily nonperforming loans. Loans with an aggregate carrying value of $0.3 million as of June 30, 2024 had been subject to previous partial charge-offs aggregating $0.3 million over the past several years. As of June 30, 2024, there were no specific reserves allocated to loans that had been subject to a previous partial charge-off.

Although we believe the allowance is adequate to absorb loan losses in our loan portfolio as they arise, there can be no assurance that we will not sustain loan losses in any given period that could be substantial in relation to, or greater than, the size of the allowance.

The following table reflects the composition of our allowance for credit losses, nonaccrual loans, and net charge-offs as of and for the six months ended June 30, 2024.

(Dollars in thousands)

53

Securities available for sale increased $30.8 million during the first six months of 2024, totaling $648 million as of June 30, 2024. Purchases of U.S. Government agency bonds during the first six months of 2024 aggregated $46.0 million, while proceeds from maturities totaled $10.0 million. There were no purchases of U.S. Government agency guaranteed mortgage-backed securities during the first six months of 2024, while proceeds from principal paydowns aggregated $1.6 million. Purchases of municipal bonds totaled $11.6 million during the first six months of 2024, while proceeds from matured municipal bonds aggregated $11.6 million. At June 30, 2024, the portfolio was primarily comprised of U.S. Government agency bonds (66%), municipal bonds (30%) and U.S. Government agency guaranteed mortgage-backed securities (4%). All of our securities are currently designated as available for sale, and are therefore stated at fair value. The fair value of securities designated as available for sale at June 30, 2024 totaled $648 million, including a net unrealized loss of $67.4 million. The net unrealized loss equaled $63.9 million as of December 31, 2023. After we considered whether the securities were issued by the federal government or its agencies and whether downgrades by bond rating agencies had occurred, we determined that the unrealized losses were due to changing interest rate environments. We maintain the securities portfolio at levels to provide adequate pledging and secondary liquidity for our daily operations. In addition, the securities portfolio serves a primary interest rate risk management function. We expect any upcoming purchases to generally consist of U.S. Government agency bonds and municipal bonds, with the securities portfolio maintained at about 12% to 15% of total assets.

Market values on our U.S. Government agency bonds, mortgage-backed securities issued or guaranteed by U.S. Government agencies and municipal bonds are generally determined on a monthly basis with the assistance of a third-party vendor. Evaluated pricing models that vary by type of security and incorporate available market data are utilized. Standard inputs include issuer and type of security, benchmark yields, reported trades, broker/dealer quotes and issuer spreads. The market value of certain non-rated securities issued by relatively small municipalities generally located within our markets is estimated at carrying value. We believe our valuation methodology provides for a reasonable estimation of market value, and that it is consistent with the requirements of accounting guidelines.

FHLBI stock totaled $21.5 million as of June 30, 2024, unchanged from December 31, 2023. Our investment in FHLBI stock is necessary to engage in the FHLBI’s advance and other financing programs. We have regularly received quarterly cash dividends, and we expect a cash dividend will continue to be paid in future quarterly periods.

Interest-earning deposits, a vast majority of which is comprised of funds on deposit with the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, averaged $166 million during the first six months of 2024, compared to $48.1 million during the first six months of 2023. The higher average balance primarily reflects an increase in deposits and our desire to maintain higher levels of on balance sheet liquidity. Historically, we have maintained interest-earning deposits at approximately $75.0 million.

Net premises and equipment equaled $50.2 million at June 30, 2024, compared to $50.9 million as of December 31, 2023. Depreciation expense totaled $3.1 million during the first six months of 2024, while investments associated with renovations of existing facilities totaled $2.4 million.

Total deposits increased $246 million during the first six months of 2024, providing for an annualized growth rate of about 13%. Growth in money market deposit accounts and local time deposits more than offset a reduction in business noninterest-bearing checking accounts reflecting the customary level of customers’ tax and bonus payments and partnership distributions during the early part of each first quarter. Wholesale funds, comprised of out-of-area deposits and FHLBI advances, totaled $580 million, or about 12% of total funds, as of June 30, 2024, compared to $636 million, or about 14% of total funds, as of December 31, 2023.

Noninterest-bearing deposits decreased $128 million during the first six months of 2024, in large part reflecting the aforementioned customary level of customers’ tax and bonus payments and partnership distributions in early 2024. Interest-bearing checking accounts increased $6.1 million, and savings deposits were down $16.0 million. Money market deposit accounts increased $311 million, and time deposits were up $71.9 million, primarily reflecting growth in deposits from existing customers and initial deposits from new customers.

Uninsured deposits totaled approximately $2.0 billion, or 49% of total deposits, as of June 30, 2024, compared to approximately $1.9 billion, or 48% of total deposits, as of December 31, 2023. The uninsured amounts are estimates based on the methodologies and assumptions we use for regulatory reporting requirements.

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase (“sweep accounts”) decreased $7.8 million during the first six months of 2024, totaling $222 million as of June 30, 2024. The aggregate balance of sweep accounts is subject to relatively large daily fluctuations given the nature of the customers utilizing this product and the sizable balances that many of the customers maintain. The average balance of sweep accounts equaled $221 million during the first six months of 2024, with a high balance of $258 million and a low balance of $166 million. Our sweep account program entails transferring collected funds from certain business noninterest-bearing checking accounts and savings deposits into overnight interest-bearing repurchase agreements. Such sweep accounts are not deposit accounts and are not afforded federal deposit insurance, and are accounted for as secured borrowings. All of our repurchase agreements are accounted for as secured borrowings.

FHLBI advances decreased $40.8 million during the first six months of 2024, totaling $427 million as of June 30, 2024. Bullet advances aggregating $10.0 million were obtained during the first six months of 2024, while bullet advance maturities aggregated $50.0 million. Payments on amortizing FHLBI advances totaled $0.8 million. Bullet FHLBI advances are generally obtained to provide funds for loan growth and are used to assist in managing interest rate risk, while amortizing FHLBI advances are generally acquired to match-fund specific longer-term fixed rate commercial loans, with the dollar amount and amortization structure of the underlying advances reflective of the associated commercial loans. FHLBI advances are collateralized by residential mortgage loans, first mortgage liens on multi-family residential property loans, first mortgage liens on commercial real estate property loans, and substantially all other assets of our bank, under a blanket lien arrangement. Our borrowing line of credit as of June 30, 2024 totaled $1.01 billion, with remaining availability based on collateral equaling $576 million.

Shareholders’ equity increased $29.0 million during the first six months of 2024, equaling $551 million at June 30, 2024. Positively impacting shareholders’ equity during the first six months of 2024 was net income of $40.3 million, which was partially offset by the payment of cash dividends totaling $11.1 million. Activity relating to the issuance and sale of common stock through various stock-based compensation programs and our dividend reinvestment plan positively impacted shareholders’ equity by $2.5 million. A $2.8 million after-tax decrease in the market value of our available for sale securities portfolio, reflecting an increase in market interest rates, negatively impacted shareholders’ equity during the first six months of 2024.

Liquidity

Liquidity is measured by our ability to raise funds through deposits, borrowed funds, and capital, or cash flow from the repayment of loans and securities. These funds are used to fund loans, meet deposit withdrawals, and operate our company. Liquidity is primarily achieved through local and out-of-area deposits and liquid assets such as securities available for sale, matured and called securities, federal funds sold and interest-earning deposits. Asset and liability management is the process of managing our balance sheet to achieve a mix of earning assets and liabilities that maximizes profitability, while providing adequate liquidity.

To assist in providing needed funds and managing interest rate risk, we periodically obtain monies from wholesale funding sources. Wholesale funds, comprised of out-of-area deposits and FHLBI advances, totaled $580 million, or about 12% of total funds, as of June 30, 2024, compared to $636 million, or about 14% of total funds, as of December 31, 2023.

Sweep accounts decreased $7.8 million during the first six months of 2024, totaling $222 million as of June 30, 2024. The aggregate balance of sweep accounts is subject to relatively large daily fluctuations given the nature of the customers utilizing this product and the sizable balances that many of the customers maintain. The average balance of sweep accounts equaled $221 million during the first six months of 2024, with a high balance of $258 million and a low balance of $166 million. Our sweep account program entails transferring collected funds from certain business noninterest-bearing checking accounts and savings deposits into overnight interest-bearing repurchase agreements. Such sweep accounts are not deposit accounts and are not afforded federal deposit insurance, and are accounted for as secured borrowings. All of our repurchase agreements are accounted for as secured borrowings.

Information regarding our repurchase agreements as of June 30, 2024 and during the first six months of 2024 is as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)

FHLBI advances decreased $40.8 million during the first six months of 2024, totaling $427 million as of June 30, 2024. Bullet advances aggregating $10.0 million were obtained during the first six months of 2024, while bullet advance maturities aggregated $50.0 million. Payments on amortizing FHLBI advances totaled $0.8 million. Bullet FHLBI advances are generally obtained to provide funds for loan growth and are used to assist in managing interest rate risk, while amortizing FHLBI advances are generally acquired to match-fund specific longer-term fixed rate commercial loans, with the dollar amount and amortization structure of the underlying advances reflective of the associated commercial loans. FHLBI advances are collateralized by residential mortgage loans, first mortgage liens on multi-family residential property loans, first mortgage liens on commercial real estate property loans, and substantially all other assets of our bank, under a blanket lien arrangement. Our borrowing line of credit as of June 30, 2024 totaled $1.01 billion, with remaining availability based on collateral equaling $576 million.

We also have the ability to borrow up to an aggregate $70.0 million on a daily basis through correspondent banks using established unsecured federal funds purchased lines of credit. We did not access these lines of credit during the first six months of 2024. In contrast, our interest-earning deposit balance with the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago averaged $154 million during the first six months of 2024. We also have a line of credit through the Discount Window of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. Using certain municipal bonds as collateral, we could have borrowed up to $25.7 million as of June 30, 2024. We did not utilize this line of credit during the first six months of 2024 or at any time during the previous 15 fiscal years, and do not plan to access this line of credit in future periods.

The following table reflects, as of June 30, 2024, significant fixed and determinable contractual obligations to third parties by payment date, excluding accrued interest:

(Dollars in thousands)

The balance of certificates of deposit exceeding the FDIC insured limit and their maturity profile as of June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023 were as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)

In addition to normal loan funding and deposit flow, we must maintain liquidity to meet the demands of certain unfunded loan commitments and standby letters of credit. As of June 30, 2024, we had a total of $2.04 billion in unfunded loan commitments and $19.9 million in unfunded standby letters of credit. Of the total unfunded loan commitments, $1.78 billion were commitments available as lines of credit to be drawn at any time as customers’ cash needs vary, and $255 million were for loan commitments generally expected to close and become funded within the next 12 to 18 months. We regularly monitor fluctuations in loan balances and commitment levels, and include such data in our overall liquidity management.

We monitor our liquidity position and funding strategies on an ongoing basis, but recognize that unexpected events, changes in economic or market conditions, a reduction in earnings performance, declining capital levels or situations beyond our control could cause liquidity challenges. We have developed contingency funding plans that provide a framework for meeting liquidity disruptions.

Capital Resources

Shareholders’ equity increased $29.0 million during the first six months of 2024, equaling $551 million at June 30, 2024. Positively impacting shareholders’ equity during the first six months of 2024 was net income of $40.3 million, which was partially offset by the payment of cash dividends totaling $11.1 million. Activity relating to the issuance and sale of common stock through various stock-based compensation programs and our dividend reinvestment plan positively impacted shareholders’ equity by $2.5 million. A $2.8 million after-tax decrease in the market value of our available for sale securities portfolio, reflecting an increase in market interest rates, negatively impacted shareholders’ equity during the first six months of 2024.

We and our bank are subject to regulatory capital requirements administered by state and federal banking agencies. Failure to meet the various capital requirements can initiate regulatory action that could have a direct material effect on the financial statements. As of June 30, 2024, our bank’s total risk-based capital ratio was 13.9%, compared to 13.4% at December 31, 2023. Our bank’s total regulatory capital increased $36.2 million during the first six months of 2024, in large part reflecting net income totaling $45.9 million, which was partially offset by cash dividends paid to us aggregating $14.6 million. Our bank’s total risk-based capital ratio was also impacted by a $94.7 million increase in total risk-weighted assets. As of June 30, 2024, our bank’s total regulatory capital equaled $731 million, or $204 million in excess of the 10.0% minimum that is among the requirements to be categorized as “well capitalized.” Our and our bank’s capital ratios as of June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023 are disclosed in Note 12 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Results of Operations

We recorded net income of $18.8 million, or $1.17 per basic and diluted share, for the second quarter of 2024, compared with net income of $20.4 million, or $1.27 per basic and diluted share, for the second quarter of 2023. We recorded net income of $40.3 million, or $2.50 per basic and diluted share, for the first six months of 2024, compared with net income of $41.3 million, or $2.58 per basic and diluted share, for the first six months of 2023. Diluted earnings per share decreased $0.10, or 7.9%, during the second quarter of 2024, and $0.08, or 3.1%, during the first six months of 2024, compared with the respective prior-year periods.

The lower levels of net income during the second quarter and first six months of 2024 compared to the respective 2023 periods primarily resulted from higher overhead costs and provisions for credit losses and decreased net interest income, which more than offset notable increases in noninterest income. The increase in noninterest expense during the 2024 periods mainly resulted from larger salary and data processing costs; increased contributions to the Foundation also contributed to the higher level of overhead costs during the first six months of 2024. The provision expense recorded during the 2024 periods primarily reflected individual allocations assigned to two different nonperforming nonreal-estate-related commercial loan relationships, with one each being recorded in the first quarter and second quarter, and allocations necessitated by net loan growth. Net interest income declined during the 2024 periods as higher yields on, along with growth in, earning assets were more than offset by an increased cost of funds. The growth in noninterest income during the 2024 periods mainly resulted from increased mortgage banking income and service charges on accounts; higher levels of payroll service fees, interest rate swap income, and gains on the sales of other real estate owned also contributed to the increased noninterest income during the periods. Revenue associated with a private equity investment and benefit claims on bank owned life insurance policies positively impacted noninterest income during the first six months of 2024.

Interest income during the second quarter of 2024 was $78.9 million, an increase of $13.0 million, or 19.7%, from the $65.9 million earned during the second quarter of 2023. The increase resulted from growth in, and a higher yield on, average earning assets. Average earning assets equaled $5.22 billion during the second quarter of 2024, up $502 million, or 10.7%, from the level of $4.72 billion during the second quarter of 2023; average loans were up $379 million, average interest-earning deposits grew $118 million, and average securities increased $6.0 million. The yield on average earning assets was 6.07% during the second quarter of 2024, up from 5.61% during the respective 2023 period. The higher yield primarily resulted from an increased yield on loans. The yield on loans was 6.64% during the second quarter of 2024, up from 6.19% during the second quarter of 2023 mainly due to higher interest rates on variable-rate commercial loans resulting from the FOMC raising the targeted federal funds rate in an effort to reduce elevated inflation levels. The FOMC increased the targeted federal funds rate by 75 basis points during the period of March 2023 through July 2023, during which time average variable-rate commercial loans represented approximately 68% of average total commercial loans. Increased yields on securities and interest-earning deposits, reflecting the rising interest rate environment, along with a change in earning asset mix, comprised of a decrease in lower-yielding securities as a percentage of earning assets, also contributed to the higher yield on average earning assets.

Interest income during the first six months of 2024 was $156 million, an increase of $29.2 million, or 23.1%, from the $126 million earned during the first six months of 2023. The increase primarily resulted from growth in, and a higher yield on, average earning assets. Average earning assets equaled $5.15 billion during the first six months of 2024, up $499 million, or 10.7%, from the level of $4.65 billion during the first six months of 2023; average loans increased $375 million, average interest-earning deposits were up $118 million, and average securities grew $6.2 million. The yield on average earning assets was 6.06% during the first six months of 2024, up from 5.48% during the respective 2023 period. The higher yield mainly resulted from an increased yield on loans. The yield on loans was 6.65% during the first six months of 2024, up from 6.05% during the first six months of 2023 primarily due to higher interest rates on variable-rate commercial loans stemming from FOMC rate hikes. The FOMC increased the targeted federal funds rate by 100 basis points during the period of February 2023 through July 2023, during which time average variable-rate commercial loans represented approximately 65% of average total commercial loans. Higher yields on securities and interest-earning deposits, reflecting the rising interest rate environment, along with a change in earning asset mix, consisting of a decline in lower-yielding securities as a percentage of earning assets, also contributed to the increased yield on average earning assets.

Interest expense during the second quarter of 2024 was $31.8 million, an increase of $13.4 million, or 73.2%, from the $18.4 million expensed during the second quarter of 2023. The increase is mainly attributable to a higher average weighted cost of interest-bearing liabilities, which rose from 2.37% during the second quarter of 2023 to 3.40% during the current-year second quarter primarily due to higher rates on deposits and borrowings. A change in funding mix, mainly consisting of a decrease in noninterest-bearing and lower-cost deposits and an increase in higher-cost money market accounts and time deposits stemming from deposit migration and new deposit relationships, also contributed to the increased cost of funds. Reflecting the rising interest rate environment, the cost of interest-bearing, non-time deposits increased from 1.85% during the second quarter of 2023 to 2.79% during the second quarter of 2024, while the cost of time deposits increased from 3.27% to 4.73% during the respective periods. The higher cost of interest-bearing, non-time deposits primarily resulted from increased rates paid on money market and interest-bearing business checking accounts. The cost of borrowed funds increased from 2.90% during the second quarter of 2023 to 3.56% during the second quarter of 2024 mainly due to higher costs of sweep accounts and FHLBI advances. The cost of sweep accounts increased from 1.45% during the second quarter of 2023 to 3.12% during the second quarter of 2024, while the cost of FHLBI advances increased from 2.68% to 2.96% during the respective periods, reflecting the rising interest rate environment. Growth in interest-bearing liabilities also contributed to the increase in interest expense during the second quarter of 2024 compared to the prior-year second quarter. Average interest-bearing liabilities totaled $3.76 billion during the second quarter of 2024, compared to $3.11 billion during the second quarter of 2023, representing an increase of $652 million, or 21.0%.

Interest expense during the first six months of 2024 was $61.2 million, an increase of $30.7 million, or 101%, from the $30.5 million expensed during the first six months of 2023. The increase primarily stemmed from a higher average weighted cost of interest-bearing liabilities, which rose from 2.06% during the first six months of 2023 to 3.33% during the respective 2024 period mainly due to higher rates on deposits and borrowings. A change in funding mix, mainly comprising of a decline in noninterest-bearing and lower-cost deposits and an increase in higher-cost money market accounts and time deposits stemming from deposit migration and new deposit relationships, also contributed to the increased cost of funds. Reflecting the rising interest rate environment, the cost of interest-bearing, non-time deposits increased from 1.56% during the first six months of 2023 to 2.70% during the first six months of 2024, while the cost of time deposits increased from 2.84% to 4.67% during the respective periods. The higher cost of interest-bearing, non-time deposits primarily resulted from increased rates paid on money market and interest-bearing business checking accounts. The cost of borrowed funds increased from 2.73% during the first six months of 2023 to 3.53% during the first six months of 2024 mainly due to higher costs of sweep accounts and FHLBI advances. The cost of sweep accounts increased from 1.17% during the first six months of 2023 to 3.09% during the first six months of 2024, while the cost of FHLBI advances increased from 2.44% to 2.94% during the respective periods, reflecting the rising interest rate environment. Growth in interest-bearing liabilities also contributed to the increase in interest expense during the first six months of 2024 compared to the respective 2023 period. Average interest-bearing liabilities totaled $3.68 billion during the first six months of 2024, compared to $2.98 billion during the first six months of 2023, representing an increase of $698 million, or 23.4%.

Net interest income during the second quarter of 2024 was $47.1 million, a decrease of $0.5 million, or 1.0%, from the $47.6 million earned during the respective 2023 period. The decline reflected a lower net interest margin, which more than offset growth in earning assets. The net interest margin was 3.63% in the second quarter of 2024, down from 4.05% in the prior-year second quarter due to a higher cost of funds, which more than offset an increased yield on earning assets. The cost of funds equaled 2.44% in the second quarter of 2024, up from 1.56% in the second quarter of 2023 primarily due to higher costs of deposits and borrowed funds, reflecting the impact of the rising interest rate environment. The increased yield on average earning assets mainly resulted from a higher yield on commercial loans primarily stemming from the previously mentioned FOMC rate hikes.

Net interest income during the first six months of 2024 was $94.4 million, a decline of $1.5 million, or 1.6%, from the $95.9 million earned during the respective 2023 period. The decrease reflected a lower net interest margin, which more than offset growth in earning assets. The net interest margin was 3.68% in the first six months of 2024, down from 4.16% in the first six months of 2023 due to an increased cost of funds, which more than offset a higher yield on earning assets. The cost of funds equaled 2.38% in the first six months of 2024, up from 1.32% in the respective prior-year period mainly due to higher costs of deposits and borrowed funds, reflecting the impact of the rising interest rate environment. The increased yield on average earning assets mainly resulted from a higher yield on commercial loans primarily stemming from the aforementioned FOMC rate increases.

The following tables set forth certain information relating to our consolidated average interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities and reflect the average yield on assets and average cost of liabilities for the second quarters and first six months of 2024 and 2023. Such yields and costs are derived by dividing income or expense by the average daily balance of assets or liabilities, respectively, for the period presented. Tax-exempt securities interest income and yield for the second quarters and first six months of 2024 and 2023 have been computed on a tax equivalent basis using a marginal tax rate of 21.0%. Securities interest income was increased by $60,000 in the second quarter of both 2024 and 2023 and $120,000 in the first six months of both 2024 and 2023 for this non-GAAP, but industry standard, adjustment. These adjustments equated to increases in our net interest margin of less than one basis point for each of the 2024 and 2023 periods.

MERCANTILE BANK CORPORATION

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MERCANTILE BANK CORPORATION

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Provisions for credit losses of $3.5 million and $2.0 million were recorded during the second quarters of 2024 and 2023, respectively, and $4.8 million and $2.6 million during the first six months of 2024 and 2023, respectively. The provision expense recorded during the second quarter of 2024 primarily reflected an individual allocation for a nonperforming nonreal-estate-related commercial loan relationship and allocations necessitated by net loan growth, while the provision expense recorded during the first six months of 2024 mainly reflected the aforementioned individual allocation, an individual allocation for a different nonperforming nonreal-estate-related commercial loan relationship during the first quarter, and allocations required by net loan growth. The provision expense recorded during the 2023 periods primarily reflected allocations necessitated by net loan growth and adjustments to historical loss factors to better represent our expectations for future credit losses. Ongoing strong loan quality metrics, including low levels of loan charge-offs, during the 2024 and 2023 periods largely mitigated additional reserves associated with the previously mentioned factors.

Noninterest income totaled $9.7 million during the second quarter of 2024, up $2.0 million, or 26.6%, from the $7.7 million recorded during the second quarter of 2023. The growth primarily resulted from increases in mortgage banking income and service charges on accounts, with the latter mainly stemming from enhanced use of cash management products. The higher level of mortgage banking income primarily resulted from an increased percentage of loans originated with the intent to sell, which rose from approximately 43% during the second quarter of 2023 to approximately 75% during the second quarter of 2024. Increases in payroll service fees, bank owned life insurance income, and interest rate swap income also contributed to the higher level of noninterest income. Noninterest income during the current-year second quarter included $0.3 million in gains on the sales of other real estate owned.

Noninterest income totaled $20.5 million during the first six months of 2024, compared to $14.6 million during the first six months of 2023. Noninterest income during the first six months of 2024 included bank owned life insurance death benefit claims and gains on the sales of other real estate owned totaling $0.7 million and $0.4 million, respectively. Excluding these transactions, noninterest income increased $4.8 million, or 33.1%, in the first six months of 2024 compared to the respective 2023 period. The growth primarily stemmed from higher levels of mortgage banking income, mainly reflecting an increased percentage of residential mortgage loans originated with the intent to sell, and service charges on accounts, in large part reflecting expanded use of cash management products. The percentage of residential mortgage loans originated with the intent to sell increased from approximately 40% during the first six months of 2023 to approximately 74% during the first six months of 2024. Increases in interest rate swap income and payroll service fees, along with revenue associated with a private equity investment, also contributed to the growth in noninterest income.

Noninterest expense totaled $29.7 million during the second quarter of 2024, compared to $27.8 million during the prior-year second quarter. Noninterest expense totaled $59.7 million during the first six months of 2024, compared to $56.4 million during the first six months of 2023. The increases during the 2024 periods primarily resulted from larger salary costs, reflecting annual merit pay increases, market adjustments, higher residential mortgage lender commissions and incentives, and lower residential mortgage loan deferred salary costs. Higher levels of data processing costs, mainly reflecting increased transaction volume and software support costs, and health insurance claims also contributed to the rises in noninterest expense. Reduced credit reserves for unfunded loan commitments during both 2024 periods compared to the respective 2023 periods partially offset the increases in these cost categories. Overhead costs during the first six months of 2024 included contributions to the Foundation totaling $0.7 million, while overhead costs during the respective 2023 period included a $0.4 million write-down of a former branch facility in the first quarter.

During the second quarter of 2024, we recorded income before federal income tax of $23.5 million and a federal income tax expense of $4.7 million. During the second quarter of 2023, we recorded income before federal income tax of $25.4 million and a federal income tax expense of $5.0 million. During the first six months of 2024, we recorded income before federal income tax of $50.5 million and a federal income tax expense of $10.2 million. During the first six months of 2023, we recorded income before federal income tax of $51.5 million and a federal income tax expense of $10.2 million. The decrease in federal income tax expense in the second quarter of 2024 compared to the prior-year second quarter primarily resulted from a lower level of income before federal income tax. Although income before federal income tax expense was $1.0 million lower in the first six months of 2024 compared to respective 2023 period, federal income tax expense was similar during the periods mainly due to our election to apply the proportional amortization method to our tax credit equity investments during the fourth quarter of 2023, which resulted in $0.2 million in tax expense being recorded during the year-to-date 2024 period. Amortization costs related to tax credit equity investments were included in noninterest expense in the first six months of 2023. Our effective tax rate was 20.1% during the second quarter and first six months of 2024, compared to 19.8% during the respective 2023 periods. The tax credit equity investments-related tax election negatively impacted the effective tax rate in the 2024 periods, while the previously mentioned bank owned life insurance death benefit claims, substantially all of which were nontaxable, positively impacted the effective tax rate in the first six months of 2024.

Our primary market risk exposure is interest rate risk and, to a lesser extent, liquidity risk. All of our transactions are denominated in U.S. dollars with no specific foreign exchange exposure. We have only limited agricultural-related loan assets and therefore have no significant exposure to changes in commodity prices. Any impact that changes in foreign exchange rates and commodity prices would have on interest rates is assumed to be insignificant. Interest rate risk is the exposure of our financial condition to adverse movements in interest rates. We derive our income primarily from the excess of interest collected on our interest-earning assets over the interest paid on our interest-bearing liabilities. The rates of interest we earn on our assets and owe on our liabilities generally are established contractually for a period of time. Since market interest rates change over time, we are exposed to lower profitability if we cannot adapt to interest rate changes. Accepting interest rate risk can be an important source of profitability and shareholder value; however, excessive levels of interest rate risk could pose a significant threat to our earnings and capital base. Accordingly, effective risk management that maintains interest rate risk at prudent levels is essential to our safety and soundness.

Evaluating the exposure to changes in interest rates includes assessing both the adequacy of the process used to control interest rate risk and the quantitative level of exposure. Our interest rate risk management process seeks to ensure that appropriate policies, procedures, management information systems and internal control procedures are in place to maintain interest rate risk at prudent levels with consistency and continuity. In evaluating the quantitative level of interest rate risk, we assess the existing and potential future effects of changes in interest rates on our financial condition, including capital adequacy, earnings, liquidity and asset quality.

We use two interest rate risk measurement techniques. The first, which is commonly referred to as GAP analysis, measures the difference between the dollar amounts of interest sensitive assets and liabilities that will be refinanced or repriced during a given time period. A significant repricing gap could result in a negative impact to our net interest margin during periods of changing market interest rates.

The following table depicts our GAP position as of June 30, 2024:

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(1) Floating rate loans that are currently at interest rate floors are treated as fixed rate loans and are reflected using maturity date and not repricing frequency.

(2) Mortgage-backed securities are categorized by expected maturities based upon prepayment trends as of June 30, 2024.

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The second interest rate risk measurement we use is commonly referred to as net interest income simulation analysis. We believe that this methodology provides a more accurate measurement of interest rate risk than the GAP analysis, and therefore, it serves as our primary interest rate risk measurement technique. The simulation model assesses the direction and magnitude of variations in net interest income resulting from potential changes in market interest rates.

Key assumptions in the model include prepayment speeds on various loan and investment assets; cash flows and maturities of interest sensitive assets and liabilities; and changes in market conditions impacting loan and deposit volume and pricing. These assumptions are inherently uncertain, subject to fluctuation and revision in a dynamic environment; therefore, the model cannot precisely estimate net interest income or exactly predict the impact of higher or lower interest rates on net interest income. Actual results will differ from simulated results due to timing, magnitude, and frequency of interest rate changes and changes in market conditions and our strategies, among other factors.

We conducted multiple simulations as of June 30, 2024, in which it was assumed that changes in market interest rates occurred ranging from up 300 basis points to down 300 basis points in equal quarterly instalments over the next twelve months. The following table reflects the suggested dollar and percentage changes in net interest income over the next twelve months in comparison to the $205 million in net interest income projected using our balance sheet amounts and anticipated replacement rates as of June 30, 2024. The resulting estimates are generally within our policy parameters established to manage and monitor interest rate risk.

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The resulting estimates have been significantly impacted by the current interest rate and economic environments, as adjustments have been made to critical model inputs with regards to traditional interest rate relationships. This is especially important as it relates to floating rate commercial loans, which comprise a sizable portion of our balance sheet.

In addition to changes in interest rates, the level of future net interest income is also dependent on a number of other variables, including: the growth, composition and absolute levels of loans, deposits, and other earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities; level of nonperforming assets; economic and competitive conditions; potential changes in lending, investing, and deposit gathering strategies; client preferences; and other factors.

As of June 30, 2024, an evaluation was performed under the supervision of and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based on that evaluation, our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of June 30, 2024.

There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended June 30, 2024 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those previously disclosed in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023.