South State Corporation (NASDAQ: SSB) today released its unaudited results of operations and other financial information for the three-month and twelve-month periods ended December 31, 2016. Highlights for 2016 include the following:

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  • Net income was $101.3 million for 2016, and improved $1.8 million, or 1.8% increase, from 2015, while adjusted net income (non-GAAP) was $110.1 million in 2016, up $5.7 million, or 5.5% increase, from 2015
    • Earnings per share (EPS) – diluted was $4.18 for 2016 compared to $4.11 in 2015, or a 1.7% increase;
    • Adjusted net income per share (non-GAAP) – diluted was $4.55 for 2016 compared to $4.31 in 2015, or a 5.6% increase;
    • Increased dividend paid to common shareholders during 2016 by 23.5%, or $0.23 per share, compared 2015
  • Net loan growth for 2016 was $675.8 million, or 11.2%
    • Non-acquired loan growth totaled $1.0 billion, or 24.2% increase; which
    • Outpaced acquired loan runoff of $344.5 million
  • Performance ratios during 2016 compared to 2015
    • Return on average assets totaled 1.16% compared to 1.21%
    • Adjusted return on average assets (non-GAAP) was 1.26% compared to 1.27%
    • Return on average tangible equity decreased to 14.72% compared to 15.97%
    • Adjusted return on average tangible equity (non-GAAP) declined to 15.94% from 16.72%
    • Efficiency ratio was 64.2% for both 2016 and 2015
    • Adjusted efficiency ratio (non-GAAP) was 61.8% down from 62.6% (excluding branch consolidation and merger expenses and the charge for the early termination of the FDIC loss share agreements in 2016)
  • Balance sheet and equity during 2016
    • Cash and cash equivalents decreased by $321.3 million as loans increased
    • Investment securities portfolio declined by $12.8 million and comprise 11.4% of total assets, down from 2015 at 12% of assets
    • OREO declined by $12.2 million and totaled $18.3 million
    • Noninterest bearing deposits increased by $222.6, or 11.3%
    • Shareholders’ equity increased $75.2 million, or 7.1%, to $1.14 billion, primarily from net income less the common dividends paid
    • Equity to assets improved to 12.75% from 12.38% in 2015
    • Tangible equity to tangible assets improved to 8.88% from 8.24%
  • Asset quality in 2016 compared 2015
    • Nonperforming assets (NPAs) declined by 28.2%, or $15.1 million, to $38.6 million
    • NPAs to total assets improved to 0.43% from 0.63%
    • Net charge offs on non-acquired loans were 0.06%, or $2.7 million, down from 0.09%, or $3.4 million
    • Net charge offs on acquired non-credit impaired loans were 0.07%, or $669,000, compared to 0.20%, or $2.4 million
    • Coverage ratio of ALLL on non-acquired non-performing loans improved to 250.7% from 181.8%

Quarterly Cash Dividend

The Board of Directors of South State Corporation has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.33 per share payable on its common stock. This per share amount is $0.01 per share, or 3.1% higher than the dividend paid in the immediately preceding quarter and is $0.05 per share, or 17.9%, higher than a year ago. The dividend will be payable on February 24, 2017 to shareholders of record as of February 17, 2017.

Merger with Southeastern Bank Financial Corporation (“SBFC” or “Southeastern”)

On January 3, 2017, the South State Corporation closed its merger with SBFC, and its wholly-owned bank subsidiary, Georgia Bank & Trust, merged into South State Bank. The Company issued 4,978,338 shares using an exchange ratio of 0.7307. The total purchase price was $435.1 million. Final allocation of the purchase price to the fair value of assets and liabilities acquired has not been completed and will be reported as part of the earnings release for first quarter of 2017 and Form 10-Q as of March 31, 2017. As of December 31, 2016, SBFC, headquartered in Augusta, Georgia, had approximately $1.8 billion in assets, $1.5 billion in deposits and $1.1 billion in loans. This merger added 12 offices in the Augusta, GA and Aiken, SC markets. Southeastern ranked second in market share in the Augusta market. The system conversion and branding change is scheduled to occur during Presidents’ Day weekend, February 17-20, 2017.

Branch Initiatives - Update

The Company announced the consolidation of eleven locations during the second, third and fourth quarters of 2016. During the second quarter, the Company closed eight locations; in the third quarter, one location was closed; and in the fourth quarter, one location was closed. One location which will be closed in the first quarter of 2017. The expected branch closure cost and anticipated cost savings remain on target as previously disclosed and planned.

Fourth Quarter 2016 Financial Performance

   
Three Months Ended Twelve Months Ended
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Dec. 31,

   Sept. 30,   June 30,   Mar. 31,   Dec. 31, Dec. 31,
INCOME STATEMENT 2016 2016 2016 2016 2015 2016   2015
Interest income
Loans, including fees (8) $ 76,709 $ 77,344 $ 77,154 $ 77,254 $ 77,462 $ 308,461 $ 315,574

Investment securities, federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell

  5,979     5,937     6,225     6,561     6,314     24,702     22,527  
Total interest income 82,688 83,281 83,379 83,815 83,776 333,163 338,101
Interest expense
Deposits 1,423 1,412 1,368 1,600 1,794 5,803 7,344

Federal funds purchased, securities sold under agreements to repurchase, and other borrowings

  665     624     612     613     550     2,514     2,984  
Total interest expense   2,088     2,036     1,980     2,213     2,344     8,317     10,328  
Net interest income 80,600 81,245 81,399 81,602 81,432 324,846 327,773
Provision for loan losses (1)   622     912     2,728     2,557     826     6,819     5,864  
Net interest income after provision for loan losses   79,978     80,333     78,671     79,045     80,606     318,027     321,909  
Noninterest income   32,831     35,340     32,118     30,041     29,197     130,330     115,555  
Pre-tax operating expense 70,400 72,482 72,280 71,072 70,264 286,234 280,144
Branch consolid./acquisition and merger expense   4,841     709     1,573     958     1,617     8,081     6,945  
Total noninterest expense   75,241     73,191     73,853     72,030     71,881     294,315     287,089  
Income before provision for income taxes 37,568 42,482 36,936 37,056 37,922 154,042 150,375
Provision for income taxes   13,391     14,387     12,420     12,562     12,387     52,760     50,902  
Net income $ 24,177   $ 28,095   $ 24,516   $ 24,494   $ 25,535   $ 101,282   $ 99,473  
 
Adjusted net income (non-GAAP) (3)
Net income (GAAP) $ 24,177 $ 28,095 $ 24,516 $ 24,494 $ 25,535 $ 101,282 $ 99,473
Securities (gains) losses, net of tax -- -- -- (81 ) -- (81 ) --
Other than temporary impairment, net of tax -- -- -- -- 329 -- 329
FDIC LSA early termination, net of tax -- -- 2,938 -- -- 2,938 --
Branch consolid./acquisition and merger expense   3,814     468     1,044     634     1,089     5,960     4,595  
Adjusted net income (non-GAAP) $ 27,991   $ 28,563   $ 28,498   $ 25,047   $ 26,953   $ 110,099   $ 104,397  
 
Basic earnings per common share $ 1.01 $ 1.17 $ 1.02 $ 1.02 $ 1.06 $ 4.22 $ 4.15
Diluted earnings per common share $ 1.00 $ 1.16 $ 1.01 $ 1.01 $ 1.05 $ 4.18 $ 4.11
Adjusted net income per common share - Basic (non-GAAP) (3) $ 1.16 $ 1.19 $ 1.19 $ 1.04 $ 1.12 $ 4.58 $ 4.36
Adjusted net income per common share - Diluted (non-GAAP) (3) $ 1.15 $ 1.18 $ 1.18 $ 1.04 $ 1.11 $ 4.55 $ 4.31
Dividends per common share $ 0.32 $ 0.31 $ 0.30 $ 0.28 $ 0.26 $ 1.21 $ 0.98
Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding 24,035,960 24,016,075 23,995,054 23,969,080 23,986,795 23,998,278 23,965,738
Diluted weighted-average common shares outstanding 24,287,496 24,278,294 24,237,457 24,191,065 24,267,937 24,219,047 24,224,255
Effective tax rate 35.64 % 33.87 % 33.63 % 33.90 % 32.66 % 34.25 % 33.85 %
 

The Company reported consolidated net income of $24.2 million, or $1.00 per diluted common share for the three-months ended December 31, 2016, a $3.9 million decrease from the third quarter of 2016. Interest income was down $593,000 primarily from lower loan interest income, as the acquired interest income decreased more than the non-acquired interest income increased. This was only partially offset by interest income increases in the securities portfolio and loans held for sale. Interest expense increased by $52,000 due primarily to higher interest expense in time deposits and other borrowings. The provision for loan losses decreased $290,000 compared to the third quarter due primarily to a lower provision for loan losses on non-acquired loans of $491,000 which was driven by the overall improvement in credit quality, and partially offset by an increase allowance for acquired credit impaired loans of $239,000. Noninterest income decreased by $2.5 million from lower mortgage banking income of $1.8 million and lower recoveries on acquired loans of $872,000. These were offset partially by improved income in trust and investment services of $314,000. Noninterest expense increased by $2.1 million. This increase resulted from merger expenses associated with Southeastern Bank Financial Corporation of $4.3 million in the quarter, which was offset partially by lower salary and employee benefits of $1.3 million, lower OREO and trouble loan related expenses of $511,000, and lower regulatory expenses of $267,000. During the quarter, our effective income tax rate increased to 35.64% from 33.87% in the third quarter of 2016 due primarily to nondeductible expenses of $2.0 million related to the merger with SBFC.

“The results for 2016 continued to demonstrate strong performance across the company,” said Robert R. Hill, Jr., CEO of South State Corporation. “For the year, our team produced 11.2% loan growth while maintaining excellent asset quality. We are very pleased with the diversity of our loan growth, which included 26.3% commercial and industrial growth and 11.0% consumer non real estate growth. Expense management also continued to be good as we limited our expense growth to 2.2%, excluding merger and branch consolidation costs, during the year. This combination of growth and efficiency produced an adjusted return on assets 1.26% and adjusted return on tangible equity of 15.94%. During 2016, tangible book value rose 12.0% and the cash dividend increased 23.5%. I am pleased that our team produced this level of performance even as we invested in building the platform to cross $10 billion in assets. The merger with Southeastern, which was announced in June 2016, has now closed. The outstanding bankers from Southeastern, and the progress and opportunity this merger presents will contribute to the overall success in 2017 and forward for the company.”

Balance Sheet and Capital

       
Ending Balance
Dec. 31,   Sept. 30, June 30, Mar. 31, Dec. 31,
BALANCE SHEET 2016 2016 2016 2016 2015
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents $ 374,448   $ 507,517   $ 481,912   $ 697,277   $ 695,794  
Investment securities:
Securities held to maturity 6,094 6,851 7,921 7,920 9,314
Securities available for sale, at fair value 999,405 925,374 989,610 978,047 1,009,541
Other investments   9,482     9,482     9,529     9,539     8,893  
Total investment securities   1,014,981     941,707     1,007,060     995,506     1,027,748  
Loans held for sale   50,572     57,052     48,926     34,933     41,649  
Loans:
Acquired credit impaired 602,546 632,617 658,835 692,437 733,870
Acquired non-credit impaired 836,699 885,657 941,886 999,238 1,049,538
Non-acquired 5,241,041 5,008,113 4,816,875 4,472,668 4,220,726
Less allowance for non-acquired loan losses (1)   (36,960 )   (37,319 )   (36,939 )   (35,115 )   (34,090 )
Loans, net   6,643,326     6,489,068     6,380,657     6,129,228     5,970,044  
FDIC receivable for loss share agreements - - - 2,091 4,401
Other real estate owned ("OREO") 18,316 22,211 22,427 25,953 30,554
Premises and equipment, net 183,510 179,450 177,950 176,412 174,537
Bank owned life insurance 104,148 103,427 102,815 102,199 101,588
Deferred tax asset 31,123 25,357 25,915 32,045 37,827
Mortgage servicing rights 29,037 23,064 22,350 23,697 26,202
Core deposit and other intangibles 39,848 41,738 43,629 45,521 47,425
Goodwill 338,340 338,340 338,340 338,340 338,340
Other assets   72,943     68,234     72,012     67,555     61,239  
Total assets $ 8,900,592   $ 8,797,165   $ 8,723,993   $ 8,670,757   $ 8,557,348  
 
Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity
Deposits:
Noninterest-bearing $ 2,199,046 $ 2,176,155 $ 2,117,246 $ 2,020,632 $ 1,976,480
Interest-bearing   5,135,377     5,071,251     5,046,680     5,141,316     5,123,948  
Total deposits   7,334,423     7,247,406     7,163,926     7,161,948     7,100,428  

Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase

313,773 305,268 341,064 312,034 288,231
Other borrowings 55,358 55,306 55,254 55,210 55,158
Other liabilities   62,450     65,053     59,406     59,511     54,147  
Total liabilities   7,766,004     7,673,033     7,619,650     7,588,703     7,497,964  
 
Shareholders' equity:
Preferred stock - $.01 par value; authorized 10,000,000 shares -- -- -- -- --
Common stock - $2.50 par value; authorized 40,000,000 shares 60,576 60,523 60,488 60,445 60,407
Surplus 711,307 705,124 703,445 701,462 703,929
Retained earnings 370,916 354,490 333,900 316,642 298,919
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)   (8,211 )   3,995     6,510     3,505     (3,871 )
Total shareholders' equity   1,134,588     1,124,132     1,104,343     1,082,054     1,059,384  
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $ 8,900,592   $ 8,797,165   $ 8,723,993   $ 8,670,757   $ 8,557,348  
 
Common shares issued and outstanding 24,230,392 24,209,122 24,195,226 24,177,833 24,162,657
 

At December 31, 2016, the Company’s total assets were $8.9 billion, an increase of $103.4 million from September 30, 2016 and an increase of $343.2 million from December 31, 2015. During the fourth quarter of 2016, the Company experienced asset growth primarily in loans of $153.9 million, excluding the change in the allowance for loan losses, and investment securities of $74.0 million. These increases were primarily offset by a decline in cash and cash equivalents of $133.1 million. Mortgage servicing rights increased by $6.0 million primarily from the changes in fair value due to interest rate movements during the fourth quarter. Total deposits increased $87.0 million due to noninterest-bearing deposit growth of $22.9 million, or 4.2% annualized, and interest-bearing deposits increased by $64.1 million, resulting mainly from an increase in NOW, IOLTA and money market accounts, partially offset by a decline in time deposits. Fed funds purchased and securities sold under repurchase agreements increased by $8.5 million during the fourth quarter to $313.8 million.

The Company’s book value per common share increased to $46.82 per share at December 31, 2016, compared to $46.43 at September 30, 2016, and $43.84 at December 31, 2015. During the fourth quarter of 2016, capital increased $10.5 million due to net income of $24.2 million, which was offset by the common dividend paid of $7.8 million. Accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) decreased $12.2 million due primarily to the decline in the unrealized gains in the AFS securities portfolio during the quarter of $11.7 million, net of tax. Tangible book value (“TBV”) per common share increased by $0.49 per share to $31.22 at December 31, 2016, compared to $30.73 at September 30, 2016, and increased by $3.34 per share, or 12%, from $27.88 at December 31, 2015. The quarterly increase of $0.49 per share in tangible book value was primarily the result of earnings per share, excluding amortization of intangibles, of $1.05, offset by the dividend paid to shareholders of $0.32 per share and the decrease in AOCI of $0.50 per share (primarily from the change in fair value of the available for sale securities portfolio to an unrealized loss position during the quarter).

The total risk-based capital (RBC) ratio, at December 31, 2016, is estimated to be 13.0% up from September 30, 2016 of 12.9%, due primarily to our asset mix moving from higher risk weighted categories to lower risk weighted categories, and the increase in capital discussed above; and compared to, December 31, 2015, of 13.3%, was down, due primarily to loan growth during the year and the termination of our loss share agreements with the FDIC during the second quarter of 2016. Tier 1 leverage ratio increased from 9.7% at September 30, 2016 to 9.9% at December 31, 2016.

“The strength of our balance sheet and asset quality continue to serve us well as evidenced by the financial results in 2016,” said John C. Pollok, COO and CFO. “Our non-acquired loans grew by more than $1.0 billion, or 24%, in 2016, and was partially offset by $344.2 million, or 19%, decline in acquired loans. We returned to our shareholders $5.6 million more in dividend during 2016 than in 2015, and increased our tangible book value by $3.34 per share.”

         
Three Months Ended Twelve Months Ended
Dec. 31,   Sept. 30, June 30, Mar. 31, Dec. 31, Dec. 31,   Dec. 31,
PERFORMANCE RATIOS 2016 2016 2016 2016 2015 2016 2015
Return on average assets (annualized) 1.08 % 1.28 % 1.13 % 1.15 % 1.19 % 1.16 % 1.21 %
Operating return on average assets (annualized) (non-GAAP) (3) 1.26 % 1.30 % 1.32 % 1.18 % 1.25 % 1.26 % 1.27 %
Return on average equity (annualized) 8.50 % 10.00 % 9.02 % 9.18 % 9.57 % 9.17 % 9.67 %
Operating return on average equity (annualized) (non-GAAP) (3) 9.84 % 10.17 % 10.48 % 9.38 % 10.10 % 9.97 % 10.15 %
Return on average tangible common equity (annualized) (non-GAAP) (7) 13.42 % 15.86 % 14.59 % 15.04 % 15.99 % 14.72 % 15.97 %
Operating return on average tangible common equity (annualized) (non-GAAP) (3) (7) 15.44 % 16.11 % 16.85 % 15.36 % 16.82 % 15.94 % 16.72 %
Efficiency ratio (tax equivalent) 65.82 % 62.30 % 64.54 % 64.07 % 64.17 % 64.16 % 64.19 %
Operating efficiency ratio (9) 61.59 % 61.70 % 60.81 % 63.22 % 62.72 % 61.81 % 62.64 %
Dividend payout ratio (2) 32.06 % 26.71 % 29.61 % 27.64 % 24.66 % 28.91 % 23.84 %
Book value per common share $ 46.82 $ 46.43 $ 45.64 $ 44.75 $ 43.84
Tangible common equity per common share (non-GAAP) (7) $ 31.22 $ 30.73 $ 29.86 $ 28.88 $ 27.88
 
CAPITAL RATIOS
Equity-to-assets 12.75 % 12.78 % 12.66 % 12.48 % 12.38 %
Tangible equity-to-tangible assets (non-GAAP) (7) 8.88 % 8.84 % 8.66 % 8.43 % 8.24 %
Tier 1 common equity (6) 11.7 % 11.5 % 11.2 % 11.6 % 11.8 %
Tier 1 leverage (6) 9.9 % 9.7 % 9.5 % 9.4 % 9.3 %
Tier 1 risk-based capital (6) 12.4 % 12.3 % 12.0 % 12.4 % 12.7 %
Total risk-based capital (6) 13.0 % 12.9 % 12.6 % 13.0 % 13.3 %
 
OTHER DATA
Number of branches 116 117 118 126 127
Number of employees (full-time equivalent basis) 2,055 2,039 2,032 2,039 2,058
 

Asset Quality

         
Ending Balance
Dec. 31,   Sept. 30, June 30, Mar. 31, Dec. 31,
(Dollars in thousands) 2016 2016 2016 2016 2015
NONPERFORMING ASSETS:
Non-acquired
Non-acquired nonperforming loans $ 14,745 $ 15,010 $ 18,372 $ 19,235 $ 18,747
Non-acquired OREO and other nonperforming assets   3,998     6,614     6,862     7,779     8,783  
Total non-acquired nonperforming assets   18,743     21,624     25,234     27,014     27,530  
Acquired
Acquired nonperforming loans 4,834 4,633 4,438 3,951 3,817
Acquired OREO and other nonperforming assets   15,027     16,279     16,258     18,946     22,395  
Total acquired nonperforming assets   19,861     20,912     20,696     22,897     26,212  
Total nonperforming assets $ 38,604   $ 42,536   $ 45,930   $ 49,911   $ 53,742  
 
Three Months Ended Twelve Months Ended
Dec. 31, Sept. 30, June 30, Mar. 31, Dec. 31, Dec. 31, Dec. 31,
2016 2016 2016 2016 2015 2016 2015
ASSET QUALITY RATIOS:

Allowance for non-acquired loan losses as a percentage of non-acquired loans (1)

0.71 % 0.75 % 0.77 % 0.79 % 0.81 % 0.71 % 0.81 %

Allowance for non-acquired loan losses as a percentage of non-acquired nonperforming loans

250.66 % 248.63 % 201.06 % 182.56 % 181.84 % 250.66 % 181.84 %

Net charge-offs on non-acquired loans as a percentage of average non-acquired loans (annualized) (1)

0.05 % 0.03 % 0.06 % 0.09 % 0.14 % 0.06 % 0.09 %

Net charge-offs on acquired non-credit impaired loans as a percentage of average acquired non-credit impaired loans (annualized) (1)

0.06 % 0.07 % 0.07 % 0.08 % 0.08 % 0.07 % 0.20 %

Total nonperforming assets as a percentage of total assets

0.43 % 0.48 % 0.53 % 0.58 % 0.63 %
Excluding Acquired Assets
NPLs as a percentage of period end non-acquired loans (1) 0.28 % 0.30 % 0.38 % 0.43 % 0.44 %

Total nonperforming assets as a percentage of total non-acquired loans and repossessed assets (1) (4)

0.36 % 0.43 % 0.52 % 0.60 % 0.65 %

Total nonperforming assets as a percentage of total assets (5)

0.21 % 0.25 % 0.29 % 0.31 % 0.32 %
 

During the fourth quarter of 2016, overall asset quality improved as NPAs declined by $3.9 million, or 9.2%, to $38.6 million, and represented 0.43% of total assets. Compared to December 31, 2015, NPAs have declined by $15.1 million, or 28.2%, and represented 0.63% of total assets. During the fourth quarter of 2016, non-acquired NPAs, excluding acquired loans and acquired OREO, declined by $2.9 million, or 13.3%, to $18.7 million. Non-acquired nonperforming loans decreased by $265,000, or 1.8%, and non-acquired OREO and other assets repossessed decreased $2.6 million, or 40%. Non-acquired NPAs as a percentage of total non-acquired loans and repossessed assets declined to 0.36% compared to 0.43% at September 30, 2016.

During the fourth quarter, the Company reported $4.8 million in nonperforming loans related to “acquired non-credit impaired loans”. This was an increase of $201,000 from the balance at September 30, 2016. Additionally, acquired nonperforming OREO and other assets owned decreased by $1.3 million from September 30, 2016 and declined by $7.4 million from December 31, 2015.

At December 31, 2016, the allowance for non-acquired loan losses was $37.0 million, or 0.71%, of non-acquired period-end loans. The current allowance for loan losses provides 2.51 times coverage of period-end non-acquired nonperforming loans, up from 2.49 times at September 30, 2016, and 1.82 times at December 31, 2015. Net charge-offs within the non-acquired portfolio were $644,000, or 0.05% annualized, in the fourth quarter of 2016 compared to $394,000 for the third quarter, or 0.03% annualized. Fourth quarter 2015 net charge-offs totaled $1.4 million, or 0.14% annualized. During the fourth quarter of 2016, the provision for non-acquired loan losses totaled $284,000 compared to $775,000 in the third quarter of 2016, and $400,000 in the fourth quarter of 2015.

Net charge offs related to “acquired non-credit impaired loans” were $122,000, or 0.06% annualized, and the Company recorded a provision for loan losses, accordingly, during the fourth quarter of 2016. These charge-offs declined from $160,000 in the third quarter of 2016 and from $213,000 in the fourth quarter of 2015.

Total OREO decreased by $3.9 million during the fourth quarter of 2016 to $18.3 million at December 31, 2016. This decline was the result of the disposition of 36 properties totaling $6.6 million, partially offset by the addition of lower balance assets foreclosed on during the quarter. Overall, OREO and troubled loan related costs decreased by $511,000 compared to the third quarter 2016, and decreased by $271,000 compared to the fourth quarter of 2015. The improvement in this expense from fourth quarter of 2015 was primarily the result of lower “cost to carry” on smaller balances (including taxes, insurance and maintenance) and lower losses on the disposition of these assets.

Net Interest Income and Margin

 
Three Months Ended
December 31, 2016   September 30, 2016   December 31, 2015

(Dollars in thousands)

Average   Income/   Yield/ Average   Income/   Yield/ Average   Income/   Yield/

YIELD ANALYSIS

Balance Expense Rate Balance Expense Rate Balance Expense Rate
Interest-Earning Assets:
Federal funds sold, reverse repo, and time deposits $ 330,571 $ 619 0.74 % $ 354,007 $ 666 0.75 % $ 675,385 $ 755 0.44 %
Investment securities (taxable) 850,546 4,446 2.08 % 842,128 4,309 2.04 % 808,239 4,520 2.22 %
Investment securities (tax-exempt) 112,888 914 3.22 % 122,323 962 3.13 % 135,499 1,039 3.04 %
Loans held for sale 51,383 414 3.21 % 41,246 350 3.38 % 40,376 340 3.34 %
Loans   6,581,678   76,295 4.61 %   6,463,485   76,994 4.74 %   5,904,749   77,122 5.18 %
Total interest-earning assets 7,927,066 82,688 4.15 % 7,823,189 83,281 4.24 % 7,564,248 83,776 4.39 %
Noninterest-earning assets   942,480   931,204   981,809
Total Assets $ 8,869,546 $ 8,754,393 $ 8,546,057
 
Interest-Bearing Liabilities:
Transaction and money market accounts $ 3,398,091 $ 654 0.08 % $ 3,327,790 $ 683 0.08 % $ 3,259,885 $ 666 0.08 %
Savings deposits 796,747 121 0.06 % 786,904 121 0.06 % 728,854 113 0.06 %
Certificates and other time deposits 896,820 648 0.29 % 942,532 608 0.26 % 1,127,401 1,015 0.36 %
Federal funds purchased and repurchase agreements 321,168 156 0.19 % 318,124 137 0.17 % 283,535 99 0.14 %
Other borrowings   55,328   509 3.66 %   55,275   487 3.51 %   55,131   451 3.25 %
Total interest-bearing liabilities 5,468,154 2,088 0.15 % 5,430,625 2,036 0.15 % 5,454,806 2,344 0.17 %
Noninterest-bearing liabilities 2,269,588 2,206,461 2,032,698
Shareholders' equity   1,131,804   1,117,307   1,058,553
Total Non-IBL and shareholders' equity   3,401,392   3,323,768   3,091,251
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $ 8,869,546 $ 8,754,393 $ 8,546,057
Net interest income and margin (NON-TAX EQUIV.) $ 80,600 4.04 % $ 81,245 4.13 % $ 81,432 4.27 %
Net interest margin (TAX EQUIVALENT) 4.09 % 4.18 % 4.32 %
 

Non-taxable equivalent net interest income was $80.6 million for the fourth quarter of 2016, a $645,000 decrease from the third quarter of 2016, resulting primarily from the following:

  1. An $80.0 million decrease in the average balance of acquired loans from the third quarter of 2016, coupled with a 19 basis point decline in the yield resulted in a decline in acquired loan interest income of $2.2 million. The yield declined on acquired loans from 7.66%, in the third quarter of 2016, to 7.47%, in the fourth quarter of 2016, due primarily to the renewals of certain acquired loans which increased the weighted average lives of the loan pools, and continuing to accrete the same discounts (income) over a longer period of time. As the total loan portfolio continues to remix (more non-acquired loans and less acquired loans), the yield on the total loan portfolio declined from 4.74% in the third quarter of 2016 to 4.61% in the fourth quarter of 2016. Compared to the fourth quarter of 2015, the loan portfolio yield declined from 5.18%; and
  2. $198.2 million increase in the average balance of non-acquired loans partially offset by the yield decreasing to 3.78% during the fourth quarter from 3.81% in the third quarter which resulted in an increase in non-acquired loan interest income of approximately $1.5 million; and
  3. Interest expense increased by $52,000 from the third quarter of 2016. This increase was within all categories of funding, except transaction and money market accounts, primarily from higher average balances, except within time deposits, where the average declined. Rates increased during the fourth quarter of 2016, however, the total cost of funds remained at 15 basis points, the same as third quarter of 2016. Compared to the fourth quarter of 2015, interest expense declined $256,000, primarily the result of lower interest expense on certificates and other time deposits with $230.6 million decline in the average balance.

Tax-equivalent net interest margin decreased 9 basis points from the third quarter of 2016 and declined by 23 basis points from the fourth quarter of 2015. The Company’s average yield on interest-earning assets decreased 9 basis points while the average rate on interest-bearing liabilities remained unchanged at 15 basis point in the fourth and third quarter of 2016. During the fourth quarter of 2016, the Company’s average total assets increased to $8.9 billion from $8.8 billion at September 30, 2016 and from $8.5 billion at December 31, 2015. Average earning assets totaled $7.9 billion up $103.9 million compared to the third quarter of 2016, and up from $7.6 billion at December 31, 2015. Average interest-bearing liabilities rose to $5.5 billion for the fourth quarter of 2016 from $5.4 billion at September 30, 2016, and flat from $5.5 billion at December 31, 2015. Average non-interest bearing demand deposits increased by $56.9 million during the quarter and by $227.4 million from December 31, 2015. Including the impact of noninterest bearing deposits, the Company’s cost of funds remained at 11 basis points during the fourth and the third quarter of 2016.

Noninterest Income and Expense

             
Three Months Ended Tweve Months Ended
Dec. 31, Sept. 30, Jun. 30, Mar. 31, Dec. 31, Dec. 31, Dec. 31,
(Dollars in thousands) 2016 2016 2016 2016 2015 2016 2015
Noninterest income:
Fees on deposit accounts $ 20,457 $ 20,776 $ 21,539 $ 20,125 $ 21,076 $ 82,897 $ 74,479
Mortgage banking income 4,443 6,286 5,620 4,198 3,229 20,547 21,761
Trust and investment services income 5,191 4,877 4,911 4,785 4,643 19,764 20,117
Securities gains, net -- -- -- 122 -- 122 --
Other than temporary impairment -- -- -- -- (489 ) -- (489 )
Amortization of FDIC indemnification asset -- -- (4,427 ) (1,475 ) (1,467 ) (5,902 ) (8,587 )
Recoveries of fully charged off acquired loans 1,335 2,207 2,002 921 877 6,465 2,976
Other   1,405   1,194   2,473     1,365     1,328     6,437     5,298  
Total noninterest income $ 32,831 $ 35,340 $ 32,118   $ 30,041   $ 29,197   $ 130,330   $ 115,555  
 
Noninterest expense:
Salaries and employee benefits $ 40,722 $ 41,972 $ 40,537 $ 41,432 $ 40,550 $ 164,663 $ 161,304
Net occupancy expense 5,348 5,464 5,541 5,359 5,427 21,712 21,105
Information services expense 5,196 5,237 5,082 5,034 4,734 20,549 17,810
Furniture and equipment expense 3,246 3,234 3,072 2,851 2,772 12,403 11,233
Bankcard expense 2,864 2,940 3,040 2,879 2,607 11,723 9,320
OREO expense and loan related 1,574 2,085 874 1,774 1,845 6,307 9,595
Business development and staff related 1,609 1,698 2,035 1,706 1,630 7,048 7,557
Amortization of intangibles 1,890 1,891 1,892 1,904 2,266 7,577 8,324
Professional fees 2,039 1,758 1,576 1,329 1,156 6,702 5,533
Supplies, printing and postage expense 1,369 1,345 1,757 1,808 1,528 6,279 5,919
FDIC assessment and other regulatory charges 734 1,001 1,017 1,144 1,029 3,896 4,714
Advertising and marketing 799 790 858 645 920 3,092 3,838
Other operating expenses 3,010 3,067 4,999 3,207 3,800 14,283 13,892
Merger & branch consolidation expense 4,841 709 1,573 958 1,617 8,081 6,945
Merger and branding related expense   --   --   --     --     --     --     --  
Total noninterest expense $ 75,241 $ 73,191 $ 73,853   $ 72,030   $ 71,881   $ 294,315   $ 287,089  
 

Noninterest income was lower than the third quarter of 2016 by approximately $2.5 million to $32.8 million. The decrease was the result of the following:

  • Lower mortgage banking income of $1.8 million due primarily to a lower fair value of mortgage pipeline from increased interest rates during the quarter;
  • Lower recoveries on acquired credit impaired loans of $872,000;
  • Lower fees on deposits accounts of $319,000; offset partially by
  • Higher income on trust and investment services income of $314,000 due to asset-based administration fees; and
  • Higher other income of $211,000 primarily from the cash surrender value of BOLI.

Compared to the fourth quarter of 2015, noninterest income grew by $3.6 million due to the following:

  1. $1.2 million improvement in mortgage banking income primarily from higher realized gains from mortgage loans sold in the secondary market,
  2. $1.5 million improvement with the elimination of the amortization of the FDIC indemnification asset as Loss Share Agreements (LSAs) were terminated in the second quarter of 2016,
  3. $458,000 improvement from recoveries on acquired loans as a result of the early termination of LSAs in the second quarter of 2016,
  4. $548,000 improvement in trust and investment services income, partially offset by a
  5. Decrease in fees on deposit accounts of $619,000.

Noninterest expense was $75.2 million in the fourth quarter of 2016, an increase of $2.1 million from $73.2 million in the third quarter of 2016. This increase was due primarily to the accrual of merger expenses related to closing the SBFC transaction (investment banker and legal cost) of $4.1 million. This increase was partially offset by lower expenses in salaries and benefits of $1.2 million, lower OREO and troubled loan related of $511,000 (related to lower write downs and less realized losses) and lower FDIC assessment and other regulatory charges of $267,000. Lower expense in salaries and benefits were attributable to the following: (1) $382,000 of reduced employers FICA tax, (2) $258,000 of reduced severance pay, (3) $264,000 less in commissions, and (4) lower incentive expense in the fourth quarter of 2016, as the third quarter of 2016 included higher accrual for anticipated annual payouts.

Compared to the fourth quarter of 2015, noninterest expense was $3.4 million higher due to the merger expenses recorded related to the SBFC merger of $4.6 million. This increase was partially offset by lower branch consolidation / acquisition expenses of $1.4 million. All other expense categories resulted in offsetting increases and decreases.

South State Corporation will hold a conference call today, January 27, 2017 at 10 a.m. Eastern Time, during which management will review earnings and performance trends. Callers wishing to participate may call toll-free by dialing 877-506-9272. The number for international participants is 412-380-2004. The conference ID number is 10098335. Participants can also listen to the live audio webcast through the Investor Relations section of www.SouthStateBank.com. A replay will be available beginning January 27th by 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time until 9:00 a.m. on February 10, 2017. To listen to the replay, dial 877-344-7529 or 412-317-0088. The passcode is 10098335.

South State Corporation is the largest bank holding company headquartered in South Carolina. Founded in 1933, the company’s primary subsidiary, South State Bank, has been serving the financial needs of its local communities in 24 South Carolina counties, 13 Georgia counties and 4 North Carolina counties for over 80 years. The bank also operates Minis & Co., Inc. and South State Advisory, both registered investment advisors; and First Southeast Investor Services, Inc., a limited purpose broker-dealer. Prior to the merger with Southeastern, South State Corporation had assets of approximately $8.9 billion and its stock is traded under the symbol SSB on the NASDAQ Global Select Market. More information can be found at www.SouthStateBank.com.

Non-GAAP Measures

Statements included in this press release include non-GAAP measures and should be read along with the accompanying tables which provide a reconciliation of non-GAAP measures to GAAP measures. Management believes that these non-GAAP measures provide additional useful information which allows readers to evaluate the ongoing performance of the Company. Non-GAAP measures should not be considered as an alternative to any measure of performance or financial condition as promulgated under GAAP, and investors should consider the company's performance and financial condition as reported under GAAP and all other relevant information when assessing the performance or financial condition of the company. Non-GAAP measures have limitations as analytical tools, and investors should not consider them in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of the company's results or financial condition as reported under GAAP.

   
Three Months Ended Twelve Months Ended
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data) Dec.31,   Sept. 30,   June 30,   Mar. 31,   Dec. 31, Dec.31,   Dec. 31,
RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP TO GAAP 2016 2016 2016 2016 2015 2016 2015
Adjusted net income (non-GAAP) (3)
Adjusted net income (non-GAAP) $ 27,991 $ 28,563 $ 28,498 $ 25,047 $ 26,953 $ 110,099 $ 104,397
Securities (gains) losses, net of tax -- -- -- 81 -- 81 --
Other than temporary impariment (OTTI), net of tax -- -- -- -- (329 ) -- (329 )
FDIC LSA early termination, net of tax -- -- (2,938 ) -- -- (2,938 ) --
Merger and branch consolidation/acq. expense, net of tax   (3,814 )   (468 )   (1,044 )   (634 )   (1,089 )   (5,960 )   (4,595 )
Net income (GAAP) $ 24,177   $ 28,095   $ 24,516   $ 24,494   $ 25,535   $ 101,282   $ 99,473  
 
Adjusted net income per common share - Basic (3)
Adjusted net income per common share - Basic (non-GAAP) $ 1.16 $ 1.19 $ 1.19 $ 1.04 $ 1.12 $ 4.58 $ 4.36
Effect to adjust for securities gains (losses) -- -- -- 0.01 -- 0.01 --
Effect to adjust for OTTI -- -- -- -- (0.01 ) -- (0.01 )
Effect to adjust for FDIC LSA early termination -- -- (0.12 ) -- -- (0.12 ) --
Effect to adjust for merger & branch consol./acq expenses   (0.15 )   (0.02 )   (0.05 )   (0.03 )   (0.05 )   (0.25 )   (0.20 )
Earnings per common share - Basic (GAAP) $ 1.01   $ 1.17   $ 1.02   $ 1.02   $ 1.06   $ 4.22   $ 4.15  
 
Adjusted net income per common share - Diluted (3)
Adjusted net income per common share - Diluted (non-GAAP) $ 1.15 $ 1.18 $ 1.18 $ 1.04 $ 1.11 $ 4.55 $ 4.31
Effect to adjust for securities gains (losses) -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Effect to adjust for OTTI -- -- -- -- (0.01 ) -- (0.01 )
Effect to adjust for FDIC LSA early termination -- -- (0.12 ) -- -- (0.12 ) --
Effect to adjust for merger & branch consol./acq expenses   (0.15 )   (0.02 )   (0.05 )   (0.03 )   (0.05 )   (0.25 )   (0.19 )
Earnings per common share - Diluted (GAAP) $ 1.00   $ 1.16   $ 1.01   $ 1.01   $ 1.05   $ 4.18   $ 4.11  
 
Adjusted Return of Average Assets (3)
Adjusted return on average assets (non-GAAP) 1.26 % 1.30 % 1.32 % 1.18 % 1.25 % 1.26 % 1.27 %
Effect to adjust for securities gains (losses) -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Effect to adjust for OTTI -- -- -- -- -0.02 % -- -0.01 %
Effect to adjust for FDIC LSA early termination -- -- -0.14 % -- -- -0.03 % --
Effect to adjust for merger & branch consol./acq expenses   -0.18 %   -0.02 %   -0.05 %   -0.03 %   -0.04 %   -0.07 %   -0.05 %
Return on average assets (GAAP)   1.08 %   1.28 %   1.13 %   1.15 %   1.19 %   1.16 %   1.21 %
 
Adjusted Return of Average Equity (3)
Adjusted return on average equity (non-GAAP) 9.84 % 10.17 % 10.48 % 9.38 % 10.10 % 9.97 % 10.15 %
Effect to adjust for securities gains (losses) -- -- -- 0.03 % -- 0.01 % --
Effect to adjust for OTTI -- -- -- -- -0.12 % -- -0.03 %
Effect to adjust for FDIC LSA early termination -- -- -1.08 % -- -- -0.27 % --
Effect to adjust for merger & branch consol./acq expenses   -1.34 %   -0.17 %   -0.38 %   0.23 %   -0.41 %   -0.54 %   -0.45 %
Return on average equity (GAAP)   8.50 %   10.00 %   9.02 %   9.64 %   9.57 %   9.17 %   9.67 %
 
Adjusted Return on Average Common Tangible Equity (3) (7)
Adjusted return on average common tangible equity (non-GAAP) 15.44 % 16.11 % 16.85 % 15.36 % 16.82 % 15.94 % 16.72 %
Effect to adjust for securities gains (losses) -- -- -- 0.03 % -- 0.01 % --
Effect to adjust for OTTI -- -- -- -- -0.12 % -- -0.03 %
Effect to adjust for FDIC LSA early termination -- -- -1.08 % -- -- -0.27 % --
Effect to adjust for merger & branch consol./acq expenses -1.34 % -0.17 % -0.38 % -0.24 % -0.41 % -0.54 % -0.45 %
Effect to adjust for intangible assets   -5.60 %   -5.94 %   -6.37 %   -5.97 %   -6.72 %   -5.97 %   -6.57 %
Return on average common equity (GAAP)   8.50 %   10.00 %   9.02 %   9.18 %   9.57 %   9.17 %   9.67 %
 
Tangible Book Value Per Common Share (7)
Tangible book value per common share (non-GAAP) $ 31.22 $ 30.73 $ 29.86 $ 28.88 $ 27.88
Effect to adjust for intangible assets   15.60     15.70     15.78     15.87     15.96  
Book value per common share (GAAP) $ 46.82   $ 46.43   $ 45.64   $ 44.75   $ 43.84  
 
Tangible Equity-to-Tangible Assets (7)
Tangible equity-to-tangible assets (non-GAAP) 8.88 % 8.84 % 8.66 % 8.43 % 8.24 %
Effect to adjust for intangible assets   3.87 %   3.94 %   4.00 %   4.05 %   4.14 %
Equity-to-assets (GAAP)   12.75 %   12.78 %   12.66 %   12.48 %   12.38 %
 

Footnotes to tables:

(1) Loan data excludes mortgage loans held for sale.

(2) The dividend payout ratio is calculated by dividing total dividends paid during the period by the total net income for the same period.

(3) Adjusted net income, adjusted return on average assets, and adjusted return on average equity are non-GAAP measures and exclude the after-tax effect of gains on acquisitions, gains or losses on sales of securities, OTTI, branch consolidation and merger expense, and FDIC LSA early termination cost. Management believes that non-GAAP adjusted measures provide additional useful information that allows readers to evaluate the ongoing performance of the company. Non-GAAP measures should not be considered as an alternative to any measure of performance or financial condition as promulgated under GAAP, and investors should consider the company's performance and financial condition as reported under GAAP and all other relevant information when assessing the performance or financial condition of the company. Non-GAAP measures have limitations as analytical tools, and investors should not consider them in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of the company's results or financial condition as reported under GAAP. Adjusted net income and the related adjusted return measures (non-GAAP) exclude the following from net income (GAAP) on an after-tax basis: (a) pre-tax branch consolidation/acquisition expense and merger expense of $4.8 million, $709,000, $1.6 million, $958,000, and $1.6 million, for the quarters ended December 31, 2016, September 30, 2016, June 30, 2016, March 31, 2016, and December 31, 2015, respectively; (b) OTTI of $489,000 for the quarter ended December 31, 2015; (c) securities gains of $122,000 for the quarter ended March 31, 2016, and (d) FDIC LSA early termination cost of $4.4 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2016.

(4) Repossessed assets include OREO and other nonperforming assets.

(5) Calculated by dividing total non-acquired NPAs by total assets.

(6) December 31, 2016 ratios are estimated and may be subject to change pending the final filing of the FR Y-9C; all other periods are presented as filed.

(7) The tangible measures are non-GAAP measures and exclude the effect of period end or average balance of intangible assets. The tangible returns on equity and common equity measures also add back the after-tax amortization of intangibles to GAAP basis net income. Management believes that these non-GAAP tangible measures provide additional useful information, particularly since these measures are widely used by industry analysts for companies with prior merger and acquisition activities. Non-GAAP measures should not be considered as an alternative to any measure of performance or financial condition as promulgated under GAAP, and investors should consider the company's performance and financial condition as reported under GAAP and all other relevant information when assessing the performance or financial condition of the company. Non-GAAP measures have limitations as analytical tools, and investors should not consider them in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of the company's results or financial condition as reported under GAAP. The sections titled "Reconciliation of Non-GAAP to GAAP" provide tables that reconcile non-GAAP measures to GAAP.

(8) Includes noncash loan interest income related to the discount on acquired performing loans of $943,000; $1.1 million; $1.2 million; $1.6 million; and $1.8 million, respectively during the five quarters above; and $4.8 million and $6.5 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2016, and 2015, respectively.

(9) Adjusted efficiency ratio is calculated by taking the noninterest expense excluding branch consolidation/acquisition cost and merger cost divided by net interest income and noninterest income excluding securities gains (losses), OTTI and FDIC early termination of the loss share agreement, which occurred in the second quarter of 2016.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward Looking Statements

Statements included in this communication which are not historical in nature are intended to be, and are hereby identified as, forward looking statements for purposes of the safe harbor provided by Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The words “may,” “will,” “anticipate,” “should,” “would,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “expect,” “estimate,” “continue,” “may,” and “intend,” as well as other similar words and expressions of the future, are intended to identify forward looking statements. South State Corporation (“SSB”) cautions readers that forward looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from anticipated results. Such risks and uncertainties, include, among others, the following possibilities: the possibility that the anticipated benefits of the transaction (between SSB and SBFC) are not realized when expected or at all, including as a result of the impact of, or problems arising from, the integration of the two companies or as a result of the strength of the economy and competitive factors in the areas where SSB and SBFC do business; including as a result of unexpected factors or events; diversion of management’s attention from ongoing business operations and opportunities; potential adverse reactions or changes to business or employee relationships, including those resulting from the completion of the transaction; SSB’s ability to complete the integration of SBFC successfully; credit risk associated with an obligor’s failure to meet the terms of any contract with the bank or otherwise fail to perform as agreed; interest risk involving the effect of a change in interest rates on both the bank’s earnings and the market value of the portfolio equity; liquidity risk affecting the bank’s ability to meet its obligations when they come due; price risk focusing on changes in market factors that may affect the value of traded instruments in “mark-to-market” portfolios; transaction risk arising from problems with service or product delivery; compliance risk involving risk to earnings or capital resulting from violations of or nonconformance with laws, rules, regulations, prescribed practices, or ethical standards; strategic risk resulting from adverse business decisions or improper implementation of business decisions; reputation risk that adversely affects earnings or capital arising from negative public opinion; terrorist activities risk that results in loss of consumer confidence and economic disruptions; cybersecurity risk related to SSB’s dependence on internal computer systems and the technology of outside service providers, as well as the potential impacts of third-party security breaches, subjects the company to potential business disruptions or financial losses resulting from deliberate attacks or unintentional events; economic downturn risk resulting changes in the credit markets, greater than expected noninterest expenses, excessive loan losses and other factors and the implementation of federal spending cuts currently scheduled to go into effect; and other factors that may affect future results of SSB. Additional factors that could cause results to differ materially from those described above can be found in SSB’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 and in its subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, including for the quarters ended September 30, 2016, June 30, 2016 and March 31, 2016, each of which is on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and available in the “Investor Relations” section of SSB’s website, http://www.southstatebank.com, under the heading “SEC Filings” and in other documents SSB files with the SEC, and in SBFC’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 and in its subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, including for the quarters ended September 30, 2016, June 30, 2016 and March 31, 2016, each of which is on file with the SEC and in other documents SBFC files with the SEC.

All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made and are based on information available at that time. SSB does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect circumstances or events that occur after the date the forward-looking statements were made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events except as required by federal securities laws. As forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties, caution should be exercised against placing undue reliance on such statements.