Item 1. Business
Dearborn Bancorp, Inc. (the “Corporation”), a Michigan corporation, is a bank holding corporation owning all the common stock of Fidelity Bank (the “Bank’) , a Michigan banking corporation which commenced business on February 28, 1994. Fidelity Bank was previously known as the Community Bank of Dearborn. The Bank is the only commercial bank headquartered in Dearborn, Michigan and conducts business primarily in Wayne, Macomb, Oakland and Washtenaw Counties, Michigan.
Background
The liberalization of Michigan’s branch banking laws, together with the expansion of interstate banking, has led to substantial consolidation of the banking industry in Michigan, including within the county in which the Bank has its executive offices. In the past, several of the financial institutions within the primary market area of the Bank have either been acquired by or merged with larger financial institutions or out-of-state financial institutions. In some cases, when these consolidations occurred, local boards of directors were dissolved and local management relocated or in some cases terminated and has, in some cases, resulted in policy and credit decisions being centralized away from local management.
In the opinion of the Corporation’s management, this situation has created a favorable opportunity for a local commercial bank with local management and directors. Management of the Corporation believes that such a bank attracts those customers who wish to conduct business with a locally managed institution that demonstrates an active interest in their business and personal financial affairs. The Corporation believes that a locally managed institution, in many cases, will be able to deliver more timely responses to customer requests, provide customized financial products and services and offer customers the personal attention of the Bank’s senior banking officers. The Bank seeks to take advantage of this opportunity by emphasizing in its marketing plan the Bank’s local management and the Bank’s ties and commitment to its market area.
The Corporation was incorporated as a Michigan business corporation on September 30, 1992. The Corporation was formed to acquire all of the Bank’s issued and outstanding stock and to engage in the business of a bank holding corporation under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended (the “Act”).
The executive offices of the Corporation and the Bank are located at 1360 Porter Street, Dearborn, Michigan 48124, telephone number (313) 565-5700. The Bank’s the website address is www.fidbank.com. The investor relations page of the website can be directly accessed at www.dearbornbancorp.com.
Business of the Corporation
The primary purpose of the Corporation is the ownership of the Bank. In the future, the Corporation may form or acquire other subsidiaries as permitted under the Act and the regulations of the Federal Reserve.
Business of the Bank
Principal operations of the Bank commenced on February 28, 1994 when the Bank opened for business at its main office, located at 22290 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn, Michigan. The Bank, through its main office, branch offices and regional lending centers, emphasizes and offers highly personalized service to its customers. A listing of office locations is set forth under the caption “Fidelity Bank Locations” in the 2007 Annual Report to Stockholders and is incorporated herein by reference.
On January 4, 2007, the Corporation acquired Fidelity Financial Corporation of Michigan (Fidelity), a commercial bank with seven offices in Oakland County, Michigan. The acquisition significantly expands the Bank’s presence in Oakland County, Michigan. Management believes that the acquisition has been beneficial to the Bank’s customers and the Corporation’s shareholders.
The customer service officers are well-trained, experienced bank officers who fill the needs of the customers and handle the requests of their customers in a professional manner. The management of the Corporation and the Bank believe that it is important to the success of the Bank’s strategy to create long-term relationships between customers and Bank employees. The Bank’s senior management holds regular staff information meetings so that all employees are given information regarding the Bank’s plans and objectives, and employees are offered the opportunity to make suggestions to improve the Bank’s performance. The management of the Bank believes that this approach creates a commitment by all employees to the Bank’s success.
The Bank offers a wide range of financial products and services. These include checking accounts, savings accounts, money market accounts, certificates of deposit, business checking, direct deposit, loan services (commercial, consumer, real estate mortgages), travelers’ checks, cashiers’ checks, wire transfers, safety deposit boxes, online banking, telephone banking, collection services, and night depository services. The Bank offers check imaging options including statements on CD ROM and online banking services to its customers.. The Bank does not have a trust department.
On August 19, 1997, the Bank purchased a shell insurance agency and renamed the agency Community Bank Insurance Agency, Inc. Community Bank Insurance Agency’s primary functions are to act as the sales agent for the Corporation’s own insurance policies and to hold a minority interest in MBT Title Services, LLC, a title insurance company, which allows the Bank to offer title insurance to its customers.
On March 26, 2002, the Bank formed Community Bank Audit Services, Inc., a company that provides internal audit and compliance consulting to other small community banks.
Business Strategy
Grow Through Branch Expansion. Since commencing operations, our growth has mainly been accomplished internally. Our growth strategy is to create a commercial lending franchise concentrated in select communities. We expect to continue our historic pattern of expanding our footprint by adding offices in contiguous areas of our existing market and by filling gaps between our existing offices. Our opening of a new branch in Shelby Township, Michigan on April 30, 2007 is part of this strategy. We believe that the demographics and growth characteristics within the communities we serve should also provide significant opportunities for us to grow our loan and deposit relationships at our existing offices.
Grow Through Selected Acquisitions. Another part of our growth strategy is to continue pursuing selected acquisitions. In 2004, we acquired the Bank of Washtenaw and have successfully completed its integration into our operations. We believe that we have the ability to integrate the operational and cultural aspects of other institutions given the acquisition experience of our management. We intend to focus on organizations that have already proven to be successful in their respective market areas, and where we believe integration risk to be low. Our acquisition of Fidelity on January 4, 2007 is consistent with this strategy.
Emphasize Relationship Banking. We strive to maintain a strong commitment to relationship banking. Our goal is to attract small to medium-sized businesses, as well as individuals as customers who wish to conduct business with a local commercial bank that demonstrates an active interest in their business and personal affairs. We are becoming increasingly sophisticated in our ability to analyze our customer relationships, which increases our ability to recognize the opportunity to offer additional products and services that will expand each relationship. We believe our ability to deliver products and services in a highly personalized manner helps differentiate us from larger, regional banks operating in our market area.
Hire Experienced, Local Bankers. Our strategy has revolved around the hiring of experienced, local banking professionals and relationship managers to run our offices, call on customers and originate loans and deposits. We encourage our employees to be active in community affairs and business, trade and service organizations. Our senior loan officers have an average of over 20 years of experience in the financial services industry and have operated in our market area through a wide range of economic cycles and lending market conditions. We believe that the recruitment of banking professionals with significant experience in, and knowledge of, our markets facilitates our growth and partially mitigates the credit risk associated with our rapidly growing loan portfolio.
Capitalize on Consolidation in Our Market. Several of the financial institutions within our market area have either been acquired by, or merged with, larger or out-of-state financial institutions. These acquisitions have included: Royal Bank of Scotland Group, Plc’s acquisition of Charter One Financial, Inc., J.P. Morgan Chase & Co.’s acquisition of Bank One Corporation, ABN AMRO Holding N.V.’s acquisition of Michigan National Corporation, Fifth Third Bancorp’s acquisition of Old Kent Financial Corporation and Bank of America’s acquisition of Lasalle Bank. In some cases, when these consolidations occurred, the ensuing employee and customer disruptions created opportunities for us to attract experienced personnel and establish relationships with customers wishing to conduct business with a locally-managed institution with strong ties to the community. We have positioned ourselves to capitalize on business opportunities that may result from customer dislocation associated with these and future consolidations.
Control Our Operating Costs. Our practice of employing fewer, but highly qualified and productive individuals at all levels of the organization is key to maintaining a decentralized management structure. These individuals are able to manage large loan portfolios, which increases interest income while controlling personnel costs. Additionally, to manage our growth in an efficient manner, we continue to enhance our operating procedures and in 2004 we opened an operations center in Allen Park, Michigan that consolidated many of our administrative and support functions. This facility houses our data processing, accounting, auditing, compliance and customer support activities.
Focus on Commercial Real Estate Lending. While we offer a full range of consumer and commercial loan products, our primary lending focus will continue to be providing local businesses with loans secured by owner-occupied real estate. Typically, we seek commercial real estate lending relationships with customers borrowing from $500,000 to $4 million. Although our legal lending limit was approximately $17 million as of December 31, 2007, our Board of Directors has set our current in-house lending limit at $6 million. Our in-house limit accommodates the vast majority of lending opportunities we encounter. If local businesses have credit needs beyond the scope of our in-house lending capacity, we may participate out a portion of the credit with other financial institutions in order to accommodate our customers’ needs. As of December 31, 2007, commercial real estate loans comprised 72% of our loan portfolio.
Market Area
Our current market area includes Wayne, Macomb, Washtenaw and Oakland Counties, which are all located in southeastern Michigan. We currently have offices in the following communities: Ann Arbor, Auburn Hills, Bingham Farms, Birmingham, Bloomfield Township, Canton Township, Clinton Township, Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Plymouth Township, Saline, Shelby Township, Southfield and Southgate, Michigan. Our market area has a diverse economy based primarily on manufacturing, retail and service businesses and contains the headquarters for twenty-three Fortune 500 companies. According to 2000 U.S. Census Data, the populations of Wayne (excluding the City of Detroit), Macomb, Washtenaw and Oakland Counties totaled 3,414,967, while median household incomes for such counties were $50,848, $58,598, $59,069 and $69,794, respectively.
Our market area represents a significant banking market in the State of Michigan. According to the FDIC, total deposits in Wayne (excluding the City of Detroit), Macomb, Washtenaw, and Oakland Counties, including those of banks and thrifts, were approximately $73.0 billion as of June 30, 2007, which accounted for approximately 47.2% of the total deposit market share in the State of Michigan and has increased approximately 44.6% from $50.5 billion in deposits as of June 30, 2000.
Marketing Plan
The Bank’s marketing plan focuses on the concepts of corporate citizenship and personal interaction within the communities the Bank serves through promotion of, and active participation in, a number of civic organizations and ongoing community activities. Management believes that these efforts establish the identity and philosophy of the Bank within the communities it serves and allow Bank officers and employees to personally interact with local business leaders and members of the public. The marketing plan also emphasizes direct sales calls by Bank officers and specific telemarketing programs involving the Bank’s branch managers and customer service representatives.
The Bank has two primary target markets: consumer financial services, with an emphasis on individual deposit accounts and single family residential lending; and business financial services, with an emphasis on deposit and loan products designed for small- to medium-sized businesses.
Community Club. At inception, the Bank established a “Community Club” which has become an important marketing tool to increase the Bank’s total deposits. The Community Club is targeted at individuals over the age of 50. As of December 31, 2007, the Community Club had over 4,600 members who accounted for total deposits of $344.0 million, or 42% of the Bank’s total deposits.
Among other things, membership in the Community Club entitles the customer to increased personal attention and service by Bank staff and a 1/4% premium on new certificate of deposit accounts with a minimum $1,000 balance and one year maturity. The Bank also hosts local community events, educational seminars and travel programs which have been well received by the Community Club members. Management believes that the success of the Community Club and the Bank’s continued efforts to expand the benefits of the program will foster an increase in the number of Community Club members and deposit accounts.
Business Financial Services. The Bank’s business marketing efforts are directed by senior management, including Michael J. Ross, John A Lindsey, Warren R. Musson, Stephen C. Tarczy and Jeffrey J. Wolber. Mr. Wolber as Senior Vice President & Head of Retail, is responsible for administering and coordinating the business development efforts of the Bank.
Each bank officer, in addition to each branch manager, is responsible for creating new business opportunities for the Bank. The targeted list of new business customers represents a mix of industrial, manufacturing, professional and retail clients with an emphasis on businesses with annual sales of $10 million or less.
The Bank has developed an aggressive telemarketing program for new business. Businesses are identified through listings provided by the various Chambers of Commerce, local phone directories and other sources targeted to the communities the Bank serves. Initial sales calls are introductory in nature with follow-up calls made to determine whether a meeting can be arranged with the targeted company to discuss the Bank’s products and services. The Bank believes this strategy has been, and will continue to be, successful in generating new business for the Bank.
In addition to its telemarketing program, the Bank’s officers maintain contact with local attorneys, accountants and other representatives in the local community that may be in a position to refer business to the Bank. The Bank also encourages and supports its officers and employees to join and participate in various community organizations and events.
Through their many years of business and community leadership, each of the Corporation’s Directors has been, and will continue to be, a strong source of referrals for the Bank.
Consumer Financial Services. The Bank originates residential real estate loans primarily through its retail branch facilities. Branch managers and mortgage loan originators develop new residential mortgage applications from several sources including real estate brokers, insurance agents, accountants, attorneys, existing residential mortgage customers and other customers of the Bank. An extensive telemarketing effort generates potential customers as a result of these contacts. Additionally, the Bank has developed targeted real estate newsletters that are mailed to an existing database composed of those referral sources. The Bank also maintains an active role in several local real estate boards offering product training to members.
The Bank, as a result of its secondary market operations, is able to offer a variety of loan products that serve the needs of first time home buyers. Customers desiring to construct new homes are able to obtain financing as a result of the Bank’s construction loan program that is offered in addition to the permanent loan. Non-conforming loans, which include larger residential loans, are also provided through the Bank’s secondary marketing efforts. The Bank also provides loans that it holds in its own portfolio on those transactions that evidence satisfactory credit quality and income but are unable to be sold in the secondary market for various reasons. The Bank does not originate sub-prime mortgages or hold sub-prime mortgages in its portfolio.
Management believes that cross-selling of the Bank’s products and services to its existing customers is vital to expanding account relationships, generating additional sales opportunities and increasing fee income.
Loan Policy
As a routine part of the Bank’s business, the Bank makes loans to individuals and businesses located within the Bank’s market area. The loan policy of the Bank states that the function of the lending operation is two-fold: to provide a means for the investment of funds at a profitable rate of return with an acceptable degree of risk, and to meet the credit needs of the responsible businesses and individuals who are customers of the Bank. However, the Board of Directors of the Bank recognizes that in the normal business of lending, some losses on loans will be inevitable and should be considered a part of the normal cost of doing business. Under the loan policy, individual lending authority for loans in excess of $100,000 is granted to a limited number of officers, each of whom has over 25 years of banking experience. Currently this group includes Michael J. Ross and Warren R. Musson. They are authorized to lend up to $100,000 unsecured and $1,000,000 for collateralized loans.
The Bank’s loan policy anticipates that priorities in extending loans will change from time to time as interest rates, market conditions and competitive factors change. The policy sets forth guidelines on a nondiscriminatory basis for lending in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. The policy describes various criteria in granting loans, including the ability to pay; the character of the customer; evidence of financial responsibility; purpose of the loan; knowledge of collateral and its value; terms of repayment; source of repayment; payment history; and economic conditions.
The loan policy specifies individual lending limits for certain officers up to a maximum of $25,000 for unsecured loans and $100,000 for secured loans. When certain officers have the approval of certain other officers, these limits may be increased to $100,000 for unsecured loans and $500,000 for secured loans. Loans of greater than $500,000 require the approval of our Loan Committee and loans greater than $1,000,000 require the approval of our Executive Loan Committee, which requires the attendance of at least three outside members of the Bank’s Board of Directors for a quorum. Loans in excess of $6,000,000 up to the legal maximum authorized by law require the approval of our Board of Directors.
The loan policy also limits the amount of funds that may be loaned against specified types of collateral including: listed securities - not greater than 80% loan to value; U.S. Government securities - not greater than 90% loan to value; and insured bank deposits - not greater than 100% loan to value. As to loans secured principally by real estate, the policy complies with the FIRREA Act of 1989 regarding appraisals of the property offered as collateral by licensed independent appraisers. The loan policy also provides general guidelines as to collateral, provides for environmental reviews, contains specific limitations with respect to loans to employees, executive officers and directors, provides for problem loan identification, establishes a policy for the maintenance of a loan loss reserve, provides for loan reviews and sets forth policies for mortgage lending and other matters relating to the Bank’s lending business.
Lending Practices
Commercial Loans. Our commercial lending group originates commercial loans primarily in Wayne, Macomb, Oakland and Washtenaw Counties in southeastern Michigan. Commercial loans are originated by a group of lending officers with the assistance of Michael J. Ross and Warren R. Musson. Loans are originated for general business purposes, including working capital, accounts receivable financing, machinery and equipment acquisition, and commercial real estate financing including new construction. Land development loans are available on a restricted basis to experienced developers with substantial net worth and liquidity.
Working capital loans are often structured as a line of credit and are reviewed periodically in connection with the borrower’s year-end financial reporting. These loans generally are secured by all of the assets of the borrower, a personal guaranty of the owners and have an interest rate plus a margin tied to the national prime rate. Loans for machinery and equipment purposes typically have a maturity of five to seven years and are fully amortizing. Commercial real estate loans are usually written with a five-year maturity and are amortized over a fifteen to twenty-year period. Commercial real estate loans may have an interest rate that is fixed to maturity or float with a margin over the prime rate or another index. All loans typically contain a pre-payment premium and many floating rate loans contain interest rate floors to protect the Bank’s net interest margin.
We evaluate all aspects of a commercial loan transaction in order to minimize credit and interest rate risk. Underwriting includes an assessment of management, products, markets, cash flow, capital, income and collateral. The analysis includes a review of historical and projected financial results. Appraisals are obtained by licensed independent appraisers who are well known to us on transactions involving real estate and, in some cases, equipment.
Commercial real estate lending involves more risk than residential lending, because loan balances are greater and repayment is dependent upon the borrower’s operations. We attempt to minimize risk associated with these transactions by limiting our exposure to existing well-known customers and new customers with an established profitable history. Risk is further reduced by limiting the concentration of credit to any one borrower as well as the type of commercial real estate financed.
Residential Real Estate Loans. We originate residential real estate loans in our market area according to secondary market underwriting standards. These loans provide borrowers with a fixed interest rate with terms up to thirty years. Loans are sold on a servicing released basis in the secondary market with all interest rate risk and credit risk passed to the purchaser. The Bank from time to time may elect to underwrite certain residential real estate loans to be held in its own loan portfolio. These loans are generally underwritten with the same standards that apply to the secondary market. The majority of the portfolio loans have a fixed rate of interest for the first five years, then the interest rate is indexed to the one-year treasury rate and adjusts annually.
Consumer Loans. We originate consumer loans for a wide variety of personal financial requirements. Consumer loans include home equity lines of credit, and loans secured by new and used automobiles, boats, savings accounts as well as overdraft protection for checking account customers. We also purchase retail installment loans from a select list of automobile dealerships located primarily in our market.
Consumer loans, except for home equity lines of credit, generally have shorter terms and higher interest rates than residential mortgage loans and usually involve more credit risk than mortgage loans because of the type and nature of the collateral. While we do not utilize a formal credit scoring system, we believe our loans are underwritten carefully, with a strong emphasis on the amount of the down payment, credit quality, employment stability, and monthly income. These loans are generally repaid on a monthly repayment schedule with the source of repayment tied to the borrower’s periodic income. In addition, consumer lending collections are dependent on the borrower’s continuing financial stability, and are thus likely to be adversely affected by job loss, illness and personal bankruptcy. In many cases, repossessed collateral for a defaulted consumer loan will not provide an adequate source of repayment of the outstanding loan balance because of depreciation of the underlying collateral. We believe that the generally higher yields earned on consumer loans compensate for the increased credit risk associated with such loans and that consumer loans are important to our efforts to serve the credit needs of the communities and customers that we serve.
Allowance for Loan Losses. An allowance for loan losses is maintained at a level that we consider adequate to provide for losses in the loan portfolio. Allowances for loan losses are based upon our experience and estimates of the net realizable value of collateral in each loan portfolio. Our Board of Directors and senior management review the allowance quarterly. Our evaluation takes into consideration experience, the level of classified assets, non-performing loans, the current level of the allowance as it relates to the total loan portfolio, current economic conditions, recent regulatory examinations and other factors.
In determining the allowance for loan losses, we consider three principal elements: (i) specific allocations based on probable losses identified during the review of the loan portfolio, (ii) allocations based principally on historical loan loss experience, and (iii) additional allowances based on subjective factors, including local and general economic business factors and trends, portfolio concentrations and changes in the size, mix and/or general terms of the loan portfolios.
The first element reflects our estimate of probable losses based upon our systematic review of specific loans. These estimates are based upon a number of objective factors, such as payment history, financial condition of the borrower, and discounted collateral exposure.
As further discussed below, we have developed a risk rating system that is applied to our commercial loan portfolio. Loans rated 5 or 6 are deemed “Criticized”, while loans rates 7 or higher are deemed “Classified”. Criticized and classified loans with a balance of $150,000 or greater are subject to specific review to determine whether they are impaired, as defined by FAS 114. Portions of our allowance are assigned to individual loans based on this analysis.
Loans graded 4 or better and homogeneous mortgage and consumer loans are provided for in the allowance for loan losses computation by allocations based upon loan grade and type. These allocations include consideration of a variety of objective and subjective factors including our historical loss experience, delinquent status, the purpose and size of the loan, its collateral type, the current economic environment and other business factors and trends that we believe impact the ability of our borrowers to repay their obligations.
Delinquent Loans, Non-performing Assets and Classified Assets. When a borrower fails to make a required payment on a loan, our Bank attempts to cause the deficiency to be cured by contacting the borrower. In most cases, deficiencies are cured promptly as a result of these collection efforts.
When a borrower fails to make a timely payment, the borrower will receive a delinquency notice within 5 days of the due date. When the payment reaches 15 days past due, a second notice will be sent and a phone call will be made. This process is repeated if the account remains delinquent at 25 days. In most cases, delinquencies are paid promptly. Generally, if a real estate loan becomes 90 days delinquent, the borrower and collateral will be assessed to determine whether foreclosure action is required. When deemed appropriate by management, a foreclosure action will be instituted or a deed in lieu of foreclosure will be pursued.
Loans that are 90 days past due and are not well secured and in the process of collection will be placed on non-accrual status. Under-collateralized loans that are 90 days past due will be fully or partially charged-off. The amount charged-off will be charged against the loan loss allowance.
Our Bank has developed a risk-rating system to quantify loan quality. The system assigns a risk rating from 1 to 9 for each loan. Loans graded 1 to 4 are rated “Pass”, while loans graded 5 and 6 are rated “Criticized”. Classified loans are those with a risk rating of 7 or higher. Each loan rating is determined by analyzing the borrowers’ management, financial ability, sales trends, operating results, financial conditions, asset protection, contingencies, payment history, financial flexibility, credit enhancements and other relevant factors. Loans that fall into the classified categories are monitored on a regular basis and proper action is taken to minimize our Bank’s exposure. Losses or partial losses will be taken when they are recognized.
The Bank’s risk rating system is similar to that used by regulatory agencies. Problem assets are classified as “substandard” (risk rating 7), “doubtful” (risk rating 8) or “loss” (risk rating 9). “Substandard” assets have one or more defined weaknesses and are characterized by the distinct possibility that the insured institution will sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected. “Doubtful” assets have the same weaknesses as “substandard” assets, with the additional characteristics that (i) the weaknesses make collection or liquidation in full on the basis of currently existing facts, conditions and values questionable and (ii) there is a high possibility of loss. An asset classified “loss” is considered uncollectible and of such little value that its continuance as an asset of the institution is not warranted. The regulations also contain “special mention” (risk rating 6) and “watch credit” (risk rating 5) categories, consisting of assets which do not currently expose an institution to a sufficient degree of risk to warrant classification but which possess credit deficiencies or potential weaknesses deserving management’s close attention.
Generally, our Bank classifies as “substandard” all loans that are delinquent more than 90 days, unless management believes the delinquency status is short-term due to unusual circumstances. Loans delinquent fewer than 90 days may also be classified if the loans have the characteristics described above rendering classification appropriate.
The aggregate amounts of our Bank’s criticized and classified assets at December 31, 2007, and December 31, 2006 were as follows (dollars in thousands):
Criticized and classified assets increased $40.7 million and $24.4 million, respectively, during the year ended December 31, 2007. The economic slowdown in our market area has resulted in an increase in the number and dollar amount of classified loans. We analyze loans graded 5 or higher individually for impairment. Many of these loans are performing and well collateralized but exhibit characteristics that make downgrading the loan appropriate. At December 31, 2007, criticized and classified assets had a specific allocation of the allowance to loan losses of $1.2 million.
The following table reflects the amount of loans in delinquent status as of December 31, 2007 and 2006 (dollars in thousands):
The increase in non-accruing loans during the year ended December 31, 2007 is primarily due to downgrading forty loans with a balance of $16,068,000 to non-accrual status. The primary cause of the increase in non-accruing loans is the collapse of the residential real estate market in Southeastern Michigan and its impact on our portfolio of land development and commercial construction loans. At the time of origination, these loans were well-collateralized loans with well-established real estate developers and home builders. However, the underlying value of our collateral related to these types of loans has declined as the demand for new residential construction in Southeastern Michigan has diminished dramatically. An impairment analysis was completed on these loans resulting in a specific allocation of the allowance for loan losses to these loans of $76,000 at December 31, 2007.
We continue to work to collect these loans as they are all secured by real estate which we believe will have significant value, even in liquidation.
The distribution of loans downgraded to non-accrual status during 2007 (dollars, in thousands) is as follows:
Deposits and Other Services
Deposits. We offer a broad range of deposit services, including checking, savings, and money market accounts, certificates of deposit and direct deposit services. Transaction accounts and certificates of deposit are tailored to our primary market area at rates competitive with those offered in our area. All deposit accounts are insured by the FDIC up to the maximum amount permitted by law. We solicit deposit accounts from individuals, businesses, associations, financial institutions and government entities.
Other Services. We offer a courier service for the deposit convenience of our business customers. We also offer a online banking, voice response, automated telephone banking service, available 24 hours a day and check imaging options including statements on CD ROM.
Investments
Our principal investments are our investment in the common stock of our Bank and the common securities of the trust. Our funds may be invested from time to time in various debt instruments, including obligations of or guaranteed by the United States, general obligations of a state or political subdivision or an agency of a state or political subdivision, banker’s acceptances or certificates of deposit of United States commercial banks, or commercial paper of United States issuers rated in the highest category by a nationally-recognized investment rating service. We are permitted to make unlimited portfolio investments in equity securities and to make equity investments in subsidiary corporations engaged in certain non-banking activities, including real estate-related activities such as mortgage banking, community development, real estate appraisals, arranging equity financing for commercial real estate, and owning and operating real estate used substantially by our Bank or acquired for its future use. However, we have no present plans to make any of these equity investments.
Our Bank may invest its funds in a wide variety of debt instruments and may participate in the federal funds market with other depository institutions. Subject to certain exceptions, our Bank is prohibited from investing in equity securities. Under one exception, in certain circumstances and with the prior approval of the FDIC, our Bank could invest up to 10% of its total assets in the equity securities of a subsidiary corporation engaged in the acquisition and development of real property for sale, or the improvement of real property by construction or rehabilitation of residential or commercial units for sale or lease. Our Bank has no present plans to make such an investment. Real estate acquired by our Bank in satisfaction of or foreclosure upon loans may be held by our Bank. Our Bank is also permitted to invest in such real estate as is necessary for the convenient transaction of its business. Our Bank’s Board of Directors may alter the investment policy without stockholder approval at any time.
Employees
As of December 31, 2007, the Bank had 225 employees, including 61 officers and 164 customer service, operations and other support persons. Management believes that the Bank’s relations with its employees are excellent.
Competition
The Bank faces strong competition for deposits, loans and other financial services from numerous banks, savings banks, thrifts, credit unions and other financial institutions as well as other entities which provide financial services, including consumer finance companies, securities brokerage firms, mortgage brokers, insurance companies, mutual funds, and other lending sources and investment alternatives. Some of the financial institutions and financial services organizations with which the Bank competes are not subject to the same degree of regulation as the Bank. Many of the financial institutions and financial services organizations aggressively compete for business in the Bank’s market area. Most of these competitors have been in business for many years, have established customer bases, are larger, have substantially higher lending limits than the Bank, and are able to offer certain services that the Bank does not currently provide, including more extensive branch networks, trust services, and international banking services. In addition, most of these entities have greater capital resources than the Bank, which, among other things, may allow them to price their services at levels more favorable to the customer and to provide larger credit facilities than could the Bank. Additionally, legislation regarding interstate branching and banking may increase competition in the future from out-of-state banks.
Supervision and Regulation
The Corporation is a registered bank holding company and subject to the supervision of the Federal Reserve System (“Federal Reserve”). The Corporation is required to file with the Federal Reserve annual reports and such other information as the Federal Reserve may require under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended (the “Act”). The Corporation and the Bank are each subject to examination by the Federal Reserve.
The Act requires every bank holding company to obtain prior approval of the Federal Reserve before it may merge with or consolidate into another bank holding company, acquire substantially all assets of any bank, or acquire ownership or control of any voting shares of any bank, if after such acquisition, it would own or control, directly or indirectly, more than 5% of the voting shares of such bank holding company or bank. The Federal Reserve may in its discretion approve the acquisition by the Corporation of the voting shares or substantially all assets of a bank located in Michigan and, subject to certain restrictions, located in any other state.
The Act also prohibits a bank holding company, with certain exceptions, from acquiring direct or indirect ownership or control of more than 5% of the voting shares of any company that is not a bank, and from engaging in any business other than that of banking, managing and controlling banks and their subsidiaries. Holding companies may engage in, and may own shares of companies engaged in, certain businesses found by the Federal Reserve to be closely related to banking or the management or control of banks. Under current regulations of the Federal Reserve, a holding company and its non-bank subsidiaries are permitted to engage in investment management, sales and consumer finance, equipment leasing, data processing, discount securities brokerage, mortgage banking and brokerage, and other activities. These activities are subject to certain limitation imposed by the regulations.
Transactions between the Corporation and the Bank are subject to various restrictions imposed by state and federal law. Such transactions include loans and other extensions of credit, purchases of securities, any payments of fees and other distributions. Federal law places restrictions on the amount and nature of loans to executive officers, directors and controlling persons of banks insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and holding companies controlling such banks.
The Bank is a state chartered bank and subject to regulation and examination by the Michigan Office of Financial and Insurance Services. The Bank also is subject to certain provisions of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act and regulations issued under that act. The regulations affect many activities of the Bank, including the permissible types and amounts of loans, investments, capital adequacy, branching, interest rates payable on deposits,
required reserves, and the safety and soundness of the Bank’s practices. The Bank is not a member bank of the Federal Reserve System and is regulated and examined by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
A summary of consolidated net interest income, consolidated net interest income volume / rate analysis, rate sensitivity analysis / gap analysis and capital ratios is set forth under the caption “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in the 2007 Annual Report to Stockholders and is incorporated herein by reference.
Executive Officers of the Corporation and Bank
Set forth below are the names and ages of the executive officers of the Corporation and the Bank, positions held and the years from which held. There are no family relationships among such persons.
John E. Demmer, 84
Chairman of the Board, Dearborn Bancorp, Inc. and Fidelity Bank
Chairman of the Board and Director of the Corporation since 1992. Chairman of the Board and Director of the Bank since 1993. Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Jack Demmer Ford, Inc. since 1994. Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Jack Demmer Lincoln Mercury, Inc since 1999.
Michael J. Ross, 57
President and Chief Executive Officer, Dearborn Bancorp, Inc.
President and Chief Executive Officer, Fidelity Bank
President and Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation since 2003. President and Director of the Corporation since 1998. Vice President and Director of the Corporation from 1993 to 1997. President, Chief Executive Officer, and Director of the Bank since 1993.
Jeffrey L. Karafa, 43
Vice President, Treasurer and Secretary, Dearborn Bancorp, Inc.
Senior Vice President, CFO and Secretary, Fidelity Bank
Vice President and Treasurer of the Corporation since 1998. Secretary of the Corporation since 1999. Senior Vice President and CFO of the Bank since 2000. Secretary of the Bank since 1999. Vice President of the Bank from 1996 to 1999. Assistant Vice President of the Bank from 1994 to 1996.
John A Lindsey, 59
Oakland Regional President, Fidelity Bank
Oakland Regional President of the Bank since 2007. President and CEO of Fidelity Bank (acquired by Dearborn Bancorp, Inc in 2007) from 1995 to 2006.
Warren R. Musson, 51
Senior Vice President, Head of Lending, Fidelity Bank
Senior Vice President of the Bank since 2000. Vice President of the Bank during 1999. Senior Vice President and Senior Loan Officer of Peoples State Bank from 1993 to 1999.
Stephen C. Tarczy, 58
Northeast Regional President, Fidelity Bank
Northeast Regional President of the Bank since 2001. President and CEO of Macomb Community Bank from 1995 to 2001.
Jeffrey J. Wolber, 52
Senior Vice President, Branch Operations, Fidelity Bank
Senior Vice President of the Bank since 2000. Vice President of the Bank from 1994 to 1999.
Item 1A.
Item 1A. Risk Factors
The following risk factors could affect our business, financial conditions or results of operations. These risk factors should be considered in connection with evaluating the forward-looking statements contained in this Annual Report because they could cause the actual results and conditions to differ materially from those projected in forward-looking statements. The risks that are highlighted are not the only ones we face. If the adverse matters referred to in any of the risks actually occur, our business, financial condition or operations could be adversely affected.
Adverse economic conditions in the automobile manufacturing and related service industries may impact our banking business.
The automobile manufacturing industry has experienced significant economic difficulties over the past five years, which, in turn, has adversely impacted a number of related industries that serve the automobile manufacturing industry, including automobile parts suppliers. A number of other companies serving the automobile industry and located in our banking market are facing ongoing economic pressures. We cannot assure you that the economic conditions in the automobile manufacturing and related service industries will improve at any time in the foreseeable future or that adverse economic conditions in these industries will not impact our Bank.
Adverse changes in economic conditions or interest rates may negatively affect our earnings, capital and liquidity.
The results of operations for financial institutions, including our bank, may be materially and adversely affected by changes in prevailing local and national economic conditions, including declines in real estate market values and the related declines in value of our real estate collateral, rapid increases or decreases in interest rates and changes in the monetary and fiscal policies of the federal government. Our profitability is heavily influenced by the spread between the interest rates we earn on investments and loans and the interest rates we pay on deposits and other interest-bearing liabilities. Substantially all our loans are to businesses and individuals in southeastern Michigan, and any decline in the economy of this area could adversely affect our customers’ ability to repay such loans and our ability to make new loans to credit worthy borrowers. Like most banking institutions, our net interest spread and margin will be affected by general economic conditions and other factors that influence market interest rates and our ability to respond to changes in these rates. At any given time, our assets and liabilities will be such that they will be affected differently by a given change in interest rates.
Our credit losses could increase and our allowance for loan losses may not be adequate to cover actual loan losses resulting in a decrease in our net income and earnings per share and a possible decline in our stock price.
The risk of non-payment of loans is inherent in all lending activities, and non-payment, if it occurs, may have a materially adverse effect on our earnings and overall financial condition as well as the value of our common stock. Our focus on commercial lending may result in an increased concentration of loans to small businesses. As a result, we may assume greater lending risks than other banks. We make various assumptions and judgments about the collectibility of our loan portfolio and provide an allowance for losses based on several factors. If our assumptions are wrong, our allowance for loan losses may not be sufficient to cover our losses, which would have an adverse effect on our operating results. Due to the significant increase in loans originated since we began operations we cannot assure you that we will not experience an increase in delinquencies and losses as these loans continue to mature. The actual amount of future provisions for loan losses cannot be determined at this time and may exceed the amount of past provisions. Additions to our allowance for loan losses decrease our net income and earnings per share and may have an adverse effect on our stock price.
Our commercial real estate loans involve higher principal amounts than other loans, and repayment of these loans may be dependent on factors outside our control or the control of our borrowers.
Commercial real estate lending typically involves higher loan principal amounts, and the repayment of these loans generally is dependent, in large part, on sufficient income from the properties securing the loans to cover operating expenses and debt service. Because payments on loans secured by commercial real estate often depend upon the successful operating and management of the properties, repayment of these loans may be affected by factors outside the borrower’s control, including adverse conditions in the real estate market or the economy. If the cash flow from the property is reduced, the borrower’s ability to repay the loan and the value of the security for the loan may be impaired. At December 31, 2007, commercial real estate loans totaled $687 million, or 72% of our total loan portfolio. Because our loan portfolio contains a number of commercial real estate loans with relatively large balances, the deterioration of one or a few of these loans could cause a significant increase in our percentage of non-performing loans. An increase in non-performing loans could result in a loss of earnings from these loans, an increase in the provision for loan losses and an increase in charge-offs, all of which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
Our growth and expansion may be limited by many factors.
We have pursued and intend to continue to pursue an internal growth strategy, the success of which will depend primarily on generating an increasing level of loans and deposits at acceptable risk and interest rate levels without commensurate increases in non-interest expenses. There can be no assurance that we will be successful in continuing our growth strategy due to delays and other impediments resulting from regulatory oversight, limited availability of qualified personnel, or unavailability of branch sites. The time and costs of evaluating new markets, hiring experienced local management and opening new offices and the time lags between these activities and the generation of sufficient assets and deposits to support the costs of the expansion may negatively affect our business. In addition, the success of our growth strategy will depend on maintaining sufficient regulatory capital levels and on adequate economic conditions in our market area.
We continually seek to acquire other financial institutions or parts of those institutions. No assurance can be given that we will be able to integrate our operations after an acquisition without encountering difficulties including, without limitation, the loss of key employees and customers, the disruption of our respective ongoing businesses or possible inconsistencies in standards, controls, procedures and policies. Successful integration of our operations with another entity’s will depend primarily on our ability to consolidate operations, systems and procedures, to establish appropriate internal controls, and to eliminate redundancies and costs. If we have difficulties with the integration, we might not achieve the economic benefits we expect to result from any particular acquisition or merger. In addition, we may experience greater than expected costs or difficulties relating to such integration.
We rely heavily on our management and other key personnel, and the loss of any of them may adversely affect our operations.
We are and will continue to be dependent upon the services of our management team, including our President and Chief Executive Officer and our other senior managers. Losing one or more key members of the management team could adversely affect our operations.
In addition, we will continue to depend on our key commercial loan officers. We have several commercial loan officers who are responsible, or share responsibility, for generating and managing a significant portion of our commercial loan portfolio. Our success can be attributed in large part to the relationships these officers as well as members of our management team have developed and are able to maintain with our customers as we continue to implement our community banking philosophy. The loss of any of these commercial loan officers could adversely affect our loan portfolio and performance, and our ability to generate new loans.
Some of the other financial institutions in our market require their key employees to sign agreements that preclude or limit their ability to leave their employment and compete with them or solicit their customers. These agreements make it more difficult for us to hire loan officers with experience in our market who can immediately solicit their former or new customers on our behalf.
Our future success is dependent on our ability to compete effectively in the highly competitive banking industry.
We face substantial competition in all phases of our operations from a variety of different competitors. Our future growth and success will depend on our ability to compete effectively in this highly competitive environment. We compete for deposits, loans and other financial services with numerous Michigan-based and out-of-state banks, thrifts, credit unions and other financial institutions as well as other entities that provide financial services. Some of the financial institutions and financial service organizations with which we compete are not subject to the same degree of regulation as we are. Most of our competitors have been in business for many years, have established customer bases, are larger, have substantially higher lending limits than we do and offer other services which we do not, including trust services, brokerage, mutual funds and international banking services. The primary competitors in our market area are JPMorganChase, Charter One Bank, N.A., Comerica Incorporated, Fifth Third Bancorp, National City Corporation and Bank of America. Under the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act of 1999, effective March 11, 2000, securities firms and insurance companies that elect to become financial holding companies may acquire banks and other financial institutions. The financial services industry is also likely to become more competitive as further technological advances enable more companies to provide financial services. These technological advances may diminish the importance of depository institutions and other financial intermediaries in the transfer of funds between parties.
Growth and stockholder returns may be adversely affected if sources of capital are not available to help us meet them.
Since inception, we have sought to maximize stockholder returns by leveraging our capital. While we believe that earnings from our operations will enable us to continue to grow, if earnings do not meet our current estimates, if we incur unanticipated losses or expenses, or if we grow faster than expected, we may need to obtain additional capital through borrowing, additional issuances of debt or equity securities, or otherwise. If we do not have continued access to sufficient capital, we may be required to reduce our level of assets or reduce our rate of growth in order to maintain regulatory compliance. Under those circumstances our net income and the rate of growth of our net income may be adversely affected.
We are subject to significant government regulation, and any regulatory changes may adversely affect us.
The banking industry is heavily regulated under both federal and state law. These regulations are primarily intended to protect customers, not our creditors or stockholders. As a bank holding company, we are also subject to extensive regulation by the Federal Reserve Board, in addition to other regulatory and self- regulatory organizations. Our ability to establish new facilities or make acquisitions is conditioned upon the receipt of the required regulatory approvals from these organizations. Regulations affecting banks and financial services companies undergo continuous change, and we cannot predict the ultimate effect of these changes, which could have a material adverse effect on our profitability or financial condition.
We continually encounter technological change, and we may have fewer resources than our competitors to continue to invest in technological improvements.
The banking industry is undergoing technological changes with frequent introductions of new technology-driven products and services. In addition to better serving customers, the effective use of technology increases efficiency and enables financial institutions to reduce costs. Our future success will depend, in part, on our ability to address the needs of our customers by using technology to provide products and services that will satisfy customer demands for convenience as well as creating additional efficiencies in our operations. Many of our competitors have substantially greater resources to invest in technological improvements. There can be no assurance that we will be able to effectively acquire and implement new technology-driven products and services or be successful in marketing these products and services to our customers.
Our Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws and the laws of Michigan contain provisions that may discourage or prevent a takeover of the Corporation and reduce any takeover premium.
Our Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws, and the corporate laws of the State of Michigan, include provisions which are designed to provide our board of directors with time to consider whether a hostile takeover offer is in our and our stockholders’ best interest. These provisions, however, could discourage potential acquisition proposals and could delay or prevent a change in control. The provisions also could diminish the opportunities for a holder of our common stock to participate in tender offers, including tender offers at a price above the then-current market price for our common stock. These provisions could also prevent transactions in which our stockholders might otherwise receive a premium for their shares over then-current market prices, and may limit the ability of our stockholders to approve transactions that they may deem to be in their best interests.
The Michigan Business Corporation Act contains provisions intended to protect stockholders and prohibit or discourage various types of hostile takeover activities. In addition to these provisions and the provisions of our Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws, federal law requires the Federal Reserve Board’s approval prior to acquiring “control” of a bank holding company. All of these provisions may delay or prevent a change in control without action by our stockholders, and could adversely affect the price of our common stock.
There is a limited trading market for our common stock.
The price of our common stock has been, and will continue to be, subject to fluctuations based on, among other things, economic and market conditions for bank holding companies and the stock market in general, as well as changes in investor perceptions of the Corporation. This issuance of new shares of our common stock also may adversely affect the market for our common stock.
Our common stock is traded on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol “DEAR”. The development and maintenance of an active public trading market depends upon the existence of willing buyers and sellers, the presence of which is beyond our control. While we are a publicly-traded company, the volume of trading activity in our stock is still relatively limited.
Item 1B.
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments
We have received no written comments regarding our periodic or current reports from the staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission that were issued 180 days or more before the end of our 2007 fiscal year and that remain unresolved.
Item 2.
Item 2. Properties
The Bank’s main office is located in a single story building containing 11,400 square feet at 22290 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn, Michigan, which is owned by the Corporation and leased to the Bank.
The Bank’s Dearborn Heights, Michigan branch office is located in a 3,240 square foot, single story commercial/retail office building at 24935 W. Warren Avenue at the corner of Silvery Lane, which is also owned by the Corporation. On March 15, 2005, the Bank acquired adjacent property at 24901 W. Warren Avenue in order to expand parking.
The Bank’s Plymouth Township, Michigan branch office is located at 44623 Five Mile at the corner of Sheldon Road and contains 1,595 square feet of leased space in a retail shopping center anchored by a regional grocery store.
The Bank’s Canton Township, Michigan branch office is located in a 6,056 square foot single story commercial/retail office building at 1325 N. Canton Center near the corner of Saltz Road and is owned by the Bank.
The Bank’s Clinton Township, Michigan regional lending center is located at 45000 River Ridge Drive, Suite 110, along Hall Road (M-59) near the corner of Romeo Plank Road. The Bank leases 7,426 of space in the River Ridge Corporate Office Center Building.
The Bank’s Clinton Township, Michigan branch office is located at 19100 Hall Road near Romeo Plank Road. The Bank leases a 3,750 square foot single story commercial/retail office building.
The Bank’s Southgate, Michigan branch office is located in a 2,035 square foot single story building, which is located at 12820 Fort Street and is owned by the Bank.
The Bank’s Auburn Hills, Michigan branch office is located at 3201 University Drive, Suite 180. The Bank currently leases 2,037 square feet of this commercial office building.
The Bank’s Saline, Michigan branch office is located at 450 East Michigan Avenue. The Bank currently leases 2,575 square feet of this single story office building.
The Bank’s Ann Arbor, Michigan regional lending center and branch office is located at 250 West Eisenhower. The Bank currently leases 4,523 square feet of this commercial office building.
The Bank’s Ann Arbor, Michigan branch office is located at 2180 West Stadium Boulevard. The Bank leases this 2,800 square feet single story office building.
The Bank’s Administrative and Wayne Regional Lending Center is located at 1360 Porter Street in Dearborn, Michigan and is owned by the Bank. This office is the executive headquarters of the Corporation. The Bank’s administrative, human resources and commercial lending departments currently occupy this 10,000 square foot, two story building.
The Bank’s Operations Center is located in a 56,820 square foot three story building, which is located at 4000 Allen Road in Allen Park, Michigan and is owned by the Bank.
The Bank’s Birmingham, Michigan branch office and regional lending center is located in a 12,616 square foot two story building at 1040 E. Maple and is owned by the Bank.
The Bank’s Bloomfield Township, Michigan branch office is located at 3681 W. Maple. The Bank leases this 4,320 square foot single story office building.
The Bank’s Bingham Farms, Michigan branch office is located at 30700 Telegraph Road. The Bank leases 1,106 square feet in the Bingham Office Center Complex.
The Bank’s Southfield/Twelve Mile branch office is located at 20000 Twelve Mile Road in Southfield, Michigan and is owned by the Bank.
The Bank’s Travelers Tower branch office is located at 26555 Evergreen Road in Southfield, Michigan. The Bank currently leases 1,129 square feet in the Travelers Tower Office Building.
The Bank’s Galleria branch office is located at 200 Galleria in Southfield, Michigan. The Bank currently leases 1,120 square feet in the Galleria Officenter.
The Bank’s Shelby Township, Michigan branch office is located in a 3,108 square foot single story building, which is located at 7755 23 Mile Road and is owned by the Bank.
The Bank’s Troy Operations center is located in 9,900 square foot office building at 2681 Industrial Row in Troy, Michigan and is owned by the Bank. This office building is no longer being utilized by the Bank and is currently listed for sale.
Item 3.
Item 3. Legal Proceedings
From time to time, the Corporation and its subsidiaries are parties to legal proceedings incidental to their business. At December 31, 2007, there were no legal proceedings which management anticipates would have a material adverse effect on the results of operations or financial position of the Corporation.
Item 4.
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
No matters were submitted to a vote of security holders during the fourth quarter of 2007.
PART II
Item 5.
Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, and Related Stockholder Matters
The information required by this item appears in the Corporation’s 2007 Annual Report to Stockholders under the caption “Quarterly Common Stock Price Information“ and “ Cumulative Stock Performance Graph” and is incorporated by reference herein.
At March 1, 2008, there were 345 record holders of the common stock. In addition, it is estimated that there were approximately 2,700 beneficial owners of common stock who own their shares through brokers or banks.
Item 6.
Item 6. Selected Financial Data
The information required by this item appears in the Corporation’s 2007 Annual Report to Stockholders under the caption “Summary of Selected Financial Data” and is incorporated by reference herein.
Item 7.
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
The information required by this item appears in the Corporation’s 2007 Annual Report to Stockholders under the caption “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and is incorporated by reference herein.
Item 7A.
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure About Market Risk
The information required by this item appears in the Corporation’s 2007 Annual Report to Stockholders under the caption “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and is incorporated by reference herein.
Item 8.
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
The financial statements included in the Corporation’s 2007 Annual Report to Stockholders are incorporated by reference herein.
Item 9.
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
We previously reported a change in our registered public accounting firm from Crowe Chizek and Company, LLC to BDK, LLP. On January 18, 2008, we filed a report on Form 8-K with the Securities and Exchange Commission, reporting the change in accountants and making related disclosures. The information set forth under the caption, “Independent Public Accountants”, in the definitive Proxy Statement of the Corporation dated April 20, 2008 is incorporated by reference herein.
Item9A. Controls and Procedures
The Report by Dearborn Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiary on Internal Controls over Financial Reporting in the Corporation’s 2007 Annual Report to Stockholders is incorporated by reference herein.
Item 9B.
Item 9B. Other Information
There was no other information to disclose.
PART III
Item 10.
Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant
The information set forth under the caption “Information about Directors and Nominees for Directors” in the definitive Proxy Statement of the Corporation dated April 20, 2008 is incorporated by reference herein.
Reference is made to Part I of this report for information as to executive officers of the Corporation and Bank.
The Corporation has a separately-designated standing audit committee established in accordance with Section 3(a)(58)(A) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The members of the Audit Committee consist of Margaret I. Campbell, William J. Demmer, Michael J. Dorian, Jr., Donald G. Karcher and Bradley F. Keller.
The Board of Directors has determined that Bradley F. Keller and Donald G. Karcher, members of the Audit Committee, are qualified as audit committee financial experts, as that term is defined in the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Bradley F. Keller and Donald G. Karcher are independent, as independence for audit committee members is defined in the listing standards of the Nasdaq Stock Market and the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission.
We have adopted a Code of Ethics that applies to all of our directors, officers and employees, including our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, and persons performing similar functions. The Code of Ethics and any amendments to or waivers from the Code of Ethics, to the extent applicable to our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, and persons performing similar functions, are available upon request at no charge. Such requests should be made by writing or calling: Carolyn Wilkins, Corporate Services Officer, 4000 Allen Road, Allen Park, Michigan 48101; (313) 381-3200 or by E-mail at Carolyn.Wilkins @fidbank.com.
Item 11.
Item 11. Executive Compensation
The information set forth under the caption “Executive Compensation” and “Officer Agreements” in the definitive Proxy Statement of the Corporation dated April 20, 2008 is incorporated by reference herein.
Item 12.
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management
The information set forth under the captions “Security Ownership” in the definitive Proxy Statement of the Corporation dated April 20, 2008 is incorporated by reference herein.
The following table summarizes information, as of December 31, 2007, relating to the Corporation’s compensation plans under which its equity securities are authorized for issuance.
Item 13.
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions
The information set forth under the caption “Related Transactions” in the definitive Proxy Statement of the Corporation dated April 20, 2008 is incorporated by reference herein.
Item 14.
Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services
The information presented under the caption “Fees Paid to Independent Public Accountants” in the definitive Proxy Statement of the Corporation dated April 20, 2008 is incorporated by reference herein.
PART IV
Item 15.
Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules and Reports on Form 8-K
(a)(1) Financial Statements
The following financial statements of the Corporation appear in the Corporation’s 2007 Annual Report to Stockholders and are incorporated by reference in item 8.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2007 and 2006
Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(2) Financial Statement Schedules
No schedules are required under this item.
(3) Exhibits
The Exhibit numbers in brackets being those in such Registration Statements, Form 10-K, Form 10-Q or Form 8-K Reports.
(3)(a)
Articles of Incorporation of Registrant, As Amended. [3(a)] was filed as an Exhibit to the Form 10-Q Report of the Registrant for the quarter ended June 30, 1997 and is incorporated herein by reference.
(3)(b)
By-Laws of the Registrant, As Amended. [3(b)] was filed as an Exhibit to the Form 10-K Report of the Registrant for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1995 and is incorporated herein by reference.
(3)(d)
Amendment to the Bylaws of the Registrant was filed as an exhibit to report on Form 8-K filed on December 18, 2007 and is incorporated herein by reference.
(10)(a)
1994 Stock Option Plan, As Amended. [10(a)] was filed as an Exhibit to the Form 10-Q Report of the Registrant for the quarter ended June 30, 1997 and is incorporated herein by reference. (X)
(10)(a)
2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan [10(a)] was filed as an Exhibit to the Form 10-Q Report of the Registrant for the quarter ended June 30, 2005 and is hereby incorporated by reference. (X)
(10)(b)
Employment Agreement between the Registrant and Michael J. Ross. [10(b)] was filed as an Exhibit to Form 10-Q of the Registrant for the quarter ended June 30, 2003 and is incorporated herein by reference.
(10)(c)
Change in Control Agreement between the Registrant and five officers. [10(c)] was filed as an Exhibit to Form 10-Q of the Registrant for the quarter ended June 30, 2003 and is incorporated herein by reference.
(10.1)
Form of Stock Option Agreement granted to various executive officers. (10.1) was filed as an exhibit to Form 8-K of the Registrant, dated December 6, 2005.
(10.2)
Form of Restricted Stock Agreement granted to various officers. (10.2) was filed as an exhibit to Form 8-K of the Registrant, dated December 6, 2005.
(14)
Code of Ethics of the Registrant (14) was filed as an Exhibit to Form 10-K of the Registrant for the year ended December 31, 2003 and is incorporated herein by reference.
(21)
Subsidiaries of the Registrant (21) was filed as an Exhibit to Form 10-K of the Registrant for the year ended December 31, 2003 and is incorporated herein by reference.
Exhibit (13)
2007 Annual Report to Stockholders.
Exhibit (23)
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Exhibit (31.1)
Rule 13a-14(a) CEO Certification.
Exhibit (31.2)
Rule 13a-14(a) CFO Certification.
Exhibit (32.1)
CEO Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
Exhibit (32.2)
CFO Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
(X)
A compensatory plan required to be filed as an exhibit.
(b) Reports on Form 8-K
The Corporation filed four reports on Form 8-K during the quarter ended December 31, 2007.
Form 8-K dated October 11, 2007, filing a press release announcing the retirement of a director from Dearborn Bancorp, Inc.’s Board of Directors.
Form 8-K dated October 17, 2007, filing a press release announcing Dearborn Bancorp Inc.’s 2007 third quarter loss.
Form 8-K dated October 17, 2007, filing a press release announcing the approval of a stock repurchase plan by the Corporation’s board of directors.
Form 8-K dated December 18, 2007, filing a press release announcing the approval of an amendment to the Corporation’s By-Laws.
Form 10-K Signatures
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, on March 8, 2008.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities indicated on March 12, 2007.
/s/ Michael J. Ross
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
(Michael J. Ross)
(Principal Executive Officer)
/s/ Jeffrey L. Karafa
Vice President, Treasurer and Secretary
(Jeffrey L. Karafa)
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)
/s/ Margaret I. Campbell
Director
/s/ William J. Demmer
Director
(Margaret I. Campbell)
(William J. Demmer)
/s/ Michael V. Dorian, Jr.
Director
/s / Bradley F. Keller
Director
(Michael V. Dorian, Jr.)
(Bradley F. Keller)
/s/ David Himick
Director
/s / Jeffrey G. Longstreth
Director
(David Himick)
(Jeffrey G. Longstreth)
/s/ Donald G. Karcher
Director
/s/ Dr. Robert C. Schwyn
Director
(Donald G. Karcher)
(Dr. Robert C. Schwyn)
Exhibit Index
(X)
A compensatory plan required to be filed as an exhibit.