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EX-21 - SUBSIDIARIES OF THE REGISTRANT - UNITED BANKSHARES INC/WVdex21.htm
EX-23 - CONSENT OF ERNST & YOUNG LLP - UNITED BANKSHARES INC/WVdex23.htm
EX-12 - COMPUTATION OF RATIOS - UNITED BANKSHARES INC/WVdex12.htm
EX-32.2 - SECTION 906 CERTIFICATION FOR THE CFO - UNITED BANKSHARES INC/WVdex322.htm
EX-31.2 - SECTION 302 CERTIFICATION FOR THE CFO - UNITED BANKSHARES INC/WVdex312.htm
EX-32.1 - SECTION 906 CERTIFICATION FOR THE CEO - UNITED BANKSHARES INC/WVdex321.htm
EX-10.1 - INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR AGREEMENT FOR DONALD L. UNGER - UNITED BANKSHARES INC/WVdex101.htm
EX-31.1 - SECTION 302 CERTIFICATION FOR THE CEO - UNITED BANKSHARES INC/WVdex311.htm
Table of Contents

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM 10-K

 

 

 

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

For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2009

OR

 

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

For the transition period from                  to                 

Commission File Number: 0-13322

 

 

United Bankshares, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

 

West Virginia   55-0641179

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

 

300 United Center

500 Virginia Street, East

Charleston, West Virginia

  25301
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (304) 424-8704

 

 

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

Common Stock, $2.50 Par Value

(Title of Class)

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

 

 

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

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

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

 

 

 


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UNITED BANKSHARES, INC.

FORM 10-K

(Continued)

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

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of the registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  ¨

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

 

Large accelerated filer   x    Accelerated filer   ¨
Non-accelerated filer   ¨  (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)    Smaller reporting company   ¨

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

The aggregate market value of United Bankshares, Inc. common stock, representing all of its voting stock that was held by non-affiliates on June 30, 2009, was approximately $747,506,354.

As of January 31, 2010, United Bankshares, Inc. had 43,438,740 shares of common stock outstanding with a par value of $2.50.

Documents Incorporated By Reference

Definitive Proxy Statement dated March 25, 2010 for the 2010 Annual Shareholders’ Meeting to be held on May 3, 2010, portions of which are incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K.

 

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UNITED BANKSHARES, INC.

FORM 10-K

(Continued)

As of the date of filing this Annual report, neither the annual shareholders’ report for the year ended December 31, 2009, nor the proxy statement for the annual United shareholders’ meeting has been mailed to shareholders.

CROSS-REFERENCE INDEX

 

         Page
Part I     
Item 1.  

BUSINESS

   4
Item 1A.  

RISK FACTORS

   10
Item 1B.  

UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

   15
Item 2.  

PROPERTIES

   15
Item 3.  

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

   15
Item 4.  

SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

   15
Part II     
Item 5.  

MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON STOCK, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

   16
Item 6.  

SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

   20
Item 7.  

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

   20
Item 7A.  

QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

   46
Item 8.  

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

   51
Item 9.  

CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURES

   101
Item 9A.  

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

   101
Item 9B.  

OTHER INFORMATION

   101
Part III     
Item 10.  

DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

   102
Item 11.  

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

   102
Item 12.  

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

   102
Item 13.  

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

   102
Item 14.  

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES

   103
Part VI     
Item 15.  

EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

   104

 

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UNITED BANKSHARES, INC.

FORM 10-K, PART I

 

Item 1. BUSINESS

Organizational History and Subsidiaries

United Bankshares, Inc. (United) is a West Virginia corporation registered as a bank holding company pursuant to the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended. United was incorporated on March 26, 1982, organized on September 9, 1982, and began conducting business on May 1, 1984 with the acquisition of three wholly-owned subsidiaries. Since its formation in 1982, United has acquired twenty-seven banking institutions. At December 31, 2009, United has two banking subsidiaries (the Banking Subsidiaries) “doing business” under the name of United Bank, one operating under the laws of West Virginia referred to as United Bank (WV) and the other operating under the laws of Virginia referred to as United Bank (VA). United’s Banking Subsidiaries offer a full range of commercial and retail banking services and products. United also owns nonbank subsidiaries which engage in other community banking services such as asset management, real property title insurance, investment banking, financial planning, and brokerage services.

Employees

As of December 31, 2009, United and its subsidiaries had approximately 1,477 full-time equivalent employees and officers. None of these employees are represented by a collective bargaining unit and management considers employee relations to be excellent.

Web Site Address

United’s web site address is “www.ubsi-inc.com”. United makes available free of charge on its web site the annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and amendments thereto, as soon as reasonably practicable after United files such reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The reference to United’s web site does not constitute incorporation by reference of the information contained in the web site and should not be considered part of this document. These reports are also available at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549. The public may obtain information on the operation of the public reference room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. The SEC also maintains a website at www.sec.gov that contains reports, proxy and information statements and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC.

Business of United

As a bank holding company registered under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended, United’s present business is community banking. As of December 31, 2009, United’s consolidated assets approximated $7.8 billion and total shareholders’ equity approximated $762 million.

United is permitted to acquire other banks and bank holding companies, as well as thrift institutions. United is also permitted to engage in certain non-banking activities which are closely related to banking under the provisions of the Bank Holding Company Act and the Federal Reserve Board’s Regulation Y. Management continues to consider such opportunities as they arise, and in this regard, management from time to time makes inquiries, proposals, or expressions of interest as to potential opportunities, although no agreements or understandings to acquire other banks or bank holding companies or nonbanking subsidiaries or to engage in other nonbanking activities, other than those identified herein, presently exist.

Business of Banking Subsidiaries

United, through its subsidiaries, engages primarily in community banking and offers most banking products and services permitted by law and regulation. Included among the banking services offered are the acceptance of deposits in checking, savings, time and money market accounts; the making and servicing of personal, commercial, floor plan and student loans; and the making of construction and real estate loans. Also

 

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offered are individual retirement accounts, safe deposit boxes, wire transfers and other standard banking products and services. As part of their lending function, the Banking Subsidiaries offer credit card services.

The Banking Subsidiaries each maintain a trust department which acts as trustee under wills, trusts and pension and profit sharing plans, as executor and administrator of estates, and as guardian for estates of minors and incompetents, and in addition performs a variety of investment and security services. Trust services are available to customers of affiliate banks. United Bank (WV) provides services to its correspondent banks such as check clearing, safekeeping and the buying and selling of federal funds.

United Brokerage Services, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of United Bank (WV), is a fully-disclosed broker/dealer and a registered Investment Advisor with the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc., the Securities and Exchange Commission, and a member of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation. United Brokerage Services, Inc. offers a wide range of investment products as well as comprehensive financial planning and asset management services to the general public.

United Bank (WV) is a member of a network of automated teller machines known as the STAR ATM network while United Bank (VA) participates in the MOST network. Through STAR and MOST, the Banking Subsidiaries are participants in a network known as Cirrus, which provides banking on a nationwide basis.

United through its Banking Subsidiaries offers an Internet banking service, Smart Touch Online Banking, which allows customers to perform various transactions using a computer from any location as long as they have access to the Internet and a secure browser. Specifically, customers can check personal account balances, receive information about transactions within their accounts, make transfers between accounts, stop payment on a check, and reorder checks. Customers may also pay bills online and can make payments to virtually any business or individual. Customers can set up recurring fixed payments, one-time future payments or a one-time immediate payment. Customers can also set up their own merchants, view and modify that merchant list, view pending transactions and view their bill payment history with approximately three (3) months of history.

United also offers an automated telephone banking system, Telebanc, which allows customers to access their personal account(s) or business account(s) information from a touch-tone telephone.

Lending Activities

United’s loan portfolio, net of unearned income, decreased $277.4 million to $5.7 billion in 2009. The loan portfolio is comprised of commercial, real estate and consumer loans including credit card and home equity loans. Virtually all classifications of loans declined for 2009. Commercial real estate loans and commercial loans (not secured by real estate) decreased $27.7 million or 1.7% and $166.7 million or 13.1%, respectively. Single-family residential real estate loans decreased $55.9 million or 2.9% and construction loans declined $42.4 million or 7.0%. Consumer loans decreased $17.3 million or 5.2%. Loans secured by other real estate increased $30.2 million or 12.3%.

Commercial Loans

The commercial loan portfolio consists of loans to corporate borrowers primarily in small to mid-size industrial and commercial companies, as well as automobile dealers, service, retail and wholesale merchants. Collateral securing these loans includes equipment, machinery, inventory, receivables, vehicles and commercial real estate. Commercial loans are considered to contain a higher level of risk than other loan types although care is taken to minimize these risks. Numerous risk factors impact this portfolio including industry specific risks such as economy, new technology, labor rates and cyclicality, as well as customer specific factors, such as cash flow, financial structure, operating controls and asset quality. United diversifies risk within this portfolio by closely monitoring industry concentrations and portfolios to ensure that it does not exceed established lending guidelines. Diversification is intended to limit the risk of loss from any single unexpected economic event or trend. Underwriting standards require a comprehensive credit analysis and independent evaluation of virtually all larger balance commercial loans by the loan committee prior to approval.

 

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Real Estate Loans

Commercial real estate loans consist of commercial mortgages, which generally are secured by nonresidential and multi-family residential properties. Also included in this portfolio are loans that are secured by owner-occupied real estate, but made for purposes other than the construction or purchase of real estate. Commercial real estate loans are to many of the same customers and carry similar industry risks as the commercial loan portfolio. Real estate mortgage loans to consumers are secured primarily by a first lien deed of trust. These loans are traditional one-to-four family residential mortgages. The loans generally do not exceed an 80% loan to value ratio at the loan origination date and most are at a variable rate of interest. These loans are considered to be of normal risk. Also included in the category of real estate mortgage loans are home equity loans.

As of December 31, 2009, approximately $343.3 million or 6.0% of United’s loan portfolio were real estate loans that met the regulatory definition of a high loan-to-value loan. A high loan-to-value real estate loan is defined as any loan, line of credit, or combination of credits secured by liens on or interests in real estate that equals or exceeds a certain percentage established by United’s primary regulator of the real estate’s appraised value, unless the loan has other appropriate credit support. The certain percentage varies depending on the loan type and collateral. Appropriate credit support may include mortgage insurance, readily marketable collateral, or other acceptable collateral that reduces the loan-to-value ratio below the certain percentage. Of the $343.3 million, $139.7 million is secured by first deeds of trust on residential real estate with $128.6 million of that total falling in a loan-to-value (LTV) range of 90% to 100% and $11.1 million above a LTV of 100%; $65.2 million is secured by subordinate deeds of trust on residential real estate with $57.1 million between a LTV of 90% to 100% and $8.1 million above a LTV of 100%; and $138.4 million is secured by commercial real estate generally ranging from the regulatory limit for the type of commercial real estate up to a LTV of 100%. Of the $138.4 million high loan to value commercial loans, $34.0 million are classified as Other Construction Loans and Land Loans, $48.0 million are Non-residential Secured, $20.4 million are Commercial Owner occupied properties, $15.6 million are 1-4 family Residential Secured first lien properties, and $14.5 million are Residential Construction Loans. The remaining $5.9 million are spread out in three different categories, none of which are material.

Consumer Loans

Consumer loans are secured by automobiles, boats, recreational vehicles, and other personal property. Personal loans, student loans and unsecured credit card receivables are also included as consumer loans. United monitors the risk associated with these types of loans by monitoring such factors as portfolio growth, lending policies and economic conditions. Underwriting standards are continually evaluated and modified based upon these factors.

Underwriting Standards

United’s loan underwriting guidelines and standards are updated periodically and are presented for approval by the respective Boards of Directors of each of its subsidiary banks. The purpose of the standards and guidelines is to grant loans on a sound and collectible basis; to invest available funds in a safe, profitable manner; to serve the legitimate credit needs of the communities of United’s primary market area; and to ensure that all loan applicants receive fair and equal treatment in the lending process. It is the intent of the underwriting guidelines and standards to: minimize loan losses by carefully investigating the credit history of each applicant, verify the source of repayment and the ability of the applicant to repay, collateralize those loans in which collateral is deemed to be required, exercise care in the documentation of the application, review, approval, and origination process, and administer a comprehensive loan collection program.

United’s underwriting standards and practices are designed to originate both fixed and variable rate loan products in a manner which is consistent with the prudent banking practices applicable to these exposures. Typically, both fixed and variable rate loan underwriting practices incorporate conservative methodology, including the use of stress testing for commercial loans, and other product appropriate measures designed to provide an adequate margin of safety for the full collection of both principal and interest within contractual terms. Consumer real estate secured loans are underwritten to the initial rate, and to a higher assumed rate commensurate with normal market conditions. Therefore, it is the intent of United’s underwriting standards to insure that adequate primary repayment capacity exists to address both future increases in interest rates, and fluctuations in the

 

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underlying cash flows available for repayment. Historically, and at December 31, 2009, United has not offered “teaser rate” loans, and had no loan portfolio products which were specifically designed for “sub-prime” borrowers. Management defines “sub-prime” borrowers as consumer borrowers with a credit score of less than 660.

The above guidelines are adhered to and subject to the experience, background and personal judgment of the loan officer assigned to the loan application. A loan officer may grant, with justification, a loan with variances from the underwriting guidelines and standards. However, the loan officer may not exceed his or her respective lending authority without obtaining the prior, proper approval as outlined in United’s loan policy from a superior, a regional supervisor or market president (dual approval per policy) or the Loan Committee, whichever is deemed appropriate for the nature of the variance.

Loan Concentrations

United has commercial loans, including real estate and owner-occupied, income-producing real estate and land development loans, of approximately $3.2 billion as of December 31, 2009. These loans are primarily secured by real estate located in West Virginia, southeastern Ohio, Virginia and Maryland. United categorizes these commercial loans by industry according to the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) to monitor the portfolio for possible concentrations in one or more industries. As of the most recent fiscal year-end, United has one such industry classification that exceeded 10% of total loans. As of December 31, 2009, approximately $1.3 billion or 23.0% of United’s total loan portfolio were for the purpose of renting or leasing real estate. The loans were originated by United’s subsidiary banks using underwriting standards as set forth by management. United’s loan administration policies are focused on the risk characteristics of the loan portfolio, including commercial real estate loans, in terms of loan approval and credit quality. It is the opinion of management that these loans do not pose any unusual risks and that adequate consideration has been given to the above loans in establishing the allowance for loan losses.

Secondary Markets

United generally originates loans within the primary market area of its banking subsidiaries. United may from time to time make loans to borrowers and/or on properties outside of its primary market area as an accommodation to its customers. Processing of all loans is centralized in the Charleston, West Virginia office. As of December 31, 2009, the balance of mortgage loans being serviced by United for others was insignificant.

United Bank (WV) engages in the origination and acquisition of residential real estate loans for resale. These loans are for single-family, owner-occupied residences with either adjustable or fixed rate terms, with a variety of maturities tailored to effectively serve its markets. United Bank (WV)’s originations are predominately in its West Virginia markets. Mortgage loan originations are generally intended to be sold in the secondary market on a best efforts basis.

During 2009, United originated $74.1 million of real estate loans for sale in the secondary market and sold $69.7 million of loans designated as held for sale in the secondary market. Net gains on the sales of these loans during 2009 were $608 thousand.

The principal sources of revenue from United’s mortgage banking business are: (i) loan origination fees; (ii) gains or losses from the sale of loans; and (iii) interest earned on mortgage loans during the period that they are held by United pending sale, if any.

Investment Activities

United’s investment policy stresses the management of the investment securities portfolio, which includes both securities held to maturity and securities available for sale, to maximize return over the long-term in a manner that is consistent with good banking practices and relative safety of principal. United currently does not engage in trading account activity. The Asset/Liability Management Committee of United is responsible for the coordination and evaluation of the investment portfolio.

 

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Sources of funds for investment activities include “core deposits”. Core deposits include certain demand deposits, statement and special savings and NOW accounts. These deposits are relatively stable and they are the lowest cost source of funds available to United. Short-term borrowings have also been a significant source of funds. These include federal funds purchased, securities sold under agreements to repurchase and FHLB borrowings. Repurchase agreements represent funds that are generally obtained as the result of a competitive bidding process.

United’s investment portfolio is comprised of a significant amount of mortgage-backed securities. United has a small amount of U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. Agencies and Corporations. Obligations of States and Political Subdivisions are comprised of primarily “AAA” rated municipal securities. Interest and dividends on securities for the years of 2009, 2008, and 2007 were $55.5 million, $71.0 million, and $68.3 million, respectively. For the years of 2009, 2008 and 2007, United recognized net losses on security transactions of $14.7 million, $9.4 million and $68 thousand, respectively. In the year of 2009, United recognized other-than-temporary impairment charges of $15.0 million on certain investment securities consisting primarily of $8.0 million on a single-issue trust preferred security and $5.4 million on pooled trust preferred collateralized debt obligations (TRUP CDOs). During 2008, United recognized other-than-temporary impairment charges of $889 thousand on certain marketable equity securities and $9.0 million on a corporate debt holding.

Competition

United faces a high degree of competition in all of the markets it serves. These markets may generally be defined as Wood, Kanawha, Monongalia, Jackson, Cabell, Brooke, Hancock, Ohio, Marshall, Gilmer, Harrison, Lewis, Webster, Boone, Logan, Nicholas, Fayette, Berkley, Morgan, Jefferson and Raleigh Counties in West Virginia; Lawrence, Belmont, Jefferson and Washington Counties in Ohio; Montgomery County in Maryland and Arlington, Alexandria, Albemarle, Augusta, Clarke, Fairfax, Frederick, Greene, Loudoun, Prince William, Rockingham, Shenandoah, and Warren Counties in Virginia. United competes in Ohio markets because of the close proximity to the Ohio border of certain subsidiary offices. Included in United’s West Virginia markets are the five largest West Virginia Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSA): the Parkersburg MSA, the Charleston MSA, the Huntington MSA, the Wheeling MSA and the Weirton MSA. United’s Virginia markets include the Maryland, northern Virginia and Washington, D.C. MSA, the Winchester MSA, the Harrisonburg MSA, and the Charlottesville MSA. United considers the above counties and MSA’s to be the primary market area for the business of its banking subsidiaries.

With prior regulatory approval, West Virginia and Virginia banks are permitted unlimited branch banking throughout each state. In addition, interstate acquisitions of and by West Virginia and Virginia banks and bank holding companies are permissible on a reciprocal basis, as well as reciprocal interstate acquisitions by thrift institutions. These conditions serve to intensify competition within United’s market.

As of December 31, 2009, there were 69 bank holding companies operating in the State of West Virginia registered with the Federal Reserve System and the West Virginia Board of Banking and Financial Institutions and 98 bank holding companies operating in the Commonwealth of Virginia registered with the Federal Reserve System and the Virginia Corporation Commission. These holding companies are headquartered in various states and control banks throughout West Virginia and Virginia, which compete for business as well as for the acquisition of additional banks.

Economic Characteristics of Primary Market Area

As of December 2009, West Virginia’s unemployment rate was 8.6%, better than the national rate of 9.7% according to information from West Virginia’s Bureau of Employment Programs. The state unemployment rate of 8.6% for December 2009 was an increase from a rate of 7.9% for the month of November 2009 and 4.4% for December 2008. The total number of unemployed state residents increased by 5,300 for the month of December as compared to the month of November. The total number of unemployed residents was up 32,700 from December 2008. Population outflows that have constrained faster economic growth in West Virginia may be moderating. In

 

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2002, the U.S. Census Bureau estimated that the state’s population increased marginally. While substantially less than the national average, the increase was a substantial improvement over the six prior years, during which time the state’s population base shrank.

United’s Virginia subsidiary banking offices are located in markets that historically have reflected low unemployment rate levels. According to information available from the Virginia Employment Commission, Virginia’s unemployment rate as of December 2009 was 6.7% which was below the U.S. December 2009 unemployment level of 9.7%. However, the 6.7% unemployment rate was a 3 basis point increase from November 2009 as the number of unemployed residents grew by 11,799. United’s Virginia subsidiary banking offices are located in four of Virginia’s ten metropolitan areas. The Northern Virginia metropolitan area’s unemployment rate was at 4.8% in December 2009, the lowest among Virginia’s ten metropolitan areas. The Charlottesville metropolitan area’s unemployment rate was at 5.4% in December 2009, the second lowest among Virginia’s ten metropolitan areas. The Harrisonburg metropolitan area’s unemployment rate was at 5.7% in December 2009, the third lowest among Virginia’s ten metropolitan areas. The Winchester metropolitan area’s unemployment rate was 7.7% in December 2009.

Regulation and Supervision

United, as a bank holding company, is subject to the restrictions of the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended, and is registered pursuant to its provisions. As such, United is subject to the reporting requirements of and examination by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (Board of Governors).

The Bank Holding Company Act prohibits the acquisition by a bank holding company of direct or indirect ownership of more than five percent of the voting shares of any bank within the United States without prior approval of the Board of Governors. With certain exceptions, a bank holding company also is prohibited from acquiring direct or indirect ownership or control of more than five percent of the voting shares of any company which is not a bank, and from engaging directly or indirectly in business unrelated to the business of banking, or managing or controlling banks.

The Board of Governors, in its Regulation Y, permits bank holding companies to engage in preapproved non-banking activities closely related to banking or managing or controlling banks. Approval of the Board of Governors is necessary to engage in certain other non-banking activities which are not preapproved or to make acquisitions of corporations engaging in these activities. In addition, on a case-by-case basis, the Board of Governors may approve other non-banking activities.

On July 30, 2002, the President of the United States signed into law the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, a broad accounting, auditing, disclosure and corporate governance reform law. The legislation was passed in an effort to increase corporate responsibility by improving the accuracy and reliability of corporate disclosures pursuant to the securities laws and to allow stockholders to more easily and efficiently monitor the performance of companies and directors.

On October 3, 2008, the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 (the EESA) was signed into law. EESA temporarily raised the limit on federal deposit insurance coverage from $100,000 to $250,000 per depositor. Separate from EESA, in October 2008, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) also announced the Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program (TLGP) to guarantee eligible newly issued senior unsecured debt by FDIC-insured institutions through October 31, 2009. Under one component of this program, the Transaction Account Guaranty Program (TAGP), the FDIC temporarily provided a full guarantee on all non-interest-bearing transaction accounts held by any depositor, regardless of dollar amount, through December 31, 2009. The $250,000 deposit insurance coverage limit was scheduled to return to $100,000 on January 1, 2010, but was extended by congressional action until December 31, 2013. The TLGP has been extended to cover debt of FDIC-insured institutions issued through April 30, 2010, and the TAGP has been extended through June 30, 2010. United participated in the TAGP since its beginning, and has elected to continue its participation during the extension period. Additionally, United is eligible for the FDIC’s debt guarantee program.

 

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As a bank holding company doing business in West Virginia, United is also subject to regulation and examination by the West Virginia Board of Banking and Financial Institutions (the West Virginia Banking Board) and must submit annual reports to the West Virginia Banking Board. Further, any acquisition application that United must submit to the Board of Governors must also be submitted to the West Virginia Banking Board for approval.

United is also under the jurisdiction of the SEC and certain state securities commissions in regard to the offering and sale of its securities. Generally, United must file under the Securities Exchange Act of 1933, as amended, to issue additional shares of its common stock. United is also registered under and is subject to the regulatory and disclosure requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, as administered by the SEC. United is listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the quotation symbol “UBSI,” and is subject to the rules of the NASDAQ for listed companies.

The Banking Subsidiaries, as state member banks, are subject to supervision, examination and regulation by the Federal Reserve System, and as such, are subject to applicable provisions of the Federal Reserve Act and regulations issued thereunder. Each bank is subject to regulation by its state banking authority.

The deposits of United’s Banking Subsidiaries are insured by the FDIC to the extent provided by law. Accordingly, these Banking Subsidiaries are also subject to regulation by the FDIC. The Banking Subsidiaries are subject to deposit insurance assessments to maintain the Deposit Insurance Fund (DIF) of the FDIC. The FDIC utilizes a risk-based assessment system that imposes insurance premiums based upon a risk matrix that takes into account a bank’s capital level and supervisory rating (CAMELS rating). The risk matrix utilizes four risk categories which are distinguished by capital levels and supervisory ratings.

In December 2008, the FDIC issued a final rule that raised assessment rates for the first quarter of 2009 by a uniform 7 basis points, resulting in a range between 12 and 50 basis points, depending upon the risk category. In March 2009, the FDIC issued final rules to further change in the assessment system beginning in the second quarter of 2009. The changes commenced April 1, 2009 to ensure that riskier institutions bear a greater share of the increase in assessments, and are subsidized to a lesser degree by less risky institutions.

In May 2009, the FDIC issued a final rule which levied a special assessment applicable to all insured depository institutions totaling 5 basis points of each institution’s total assets less Tier 1 capital as of June 30, 2009, not to exceed 10 basis points of domestic deposits. The special assessment was part of the FDIC’s efforts to rebuild the DIF. United’s deposit insurance expense during 2009 included $3.6 million recognized in the second quarter related to the special assessment.

In November 2009, the FDIC issued a rule that required all insured depository institutions, with limited exceptions, to prepay their estimated quarterly risk-based assessments for the fourth quarter of 2009 and for all of 2010, 2011 and 2012. The FDIC also adopted a uniform three-basis point increase in assessment rates effective on January 1, 2011. In December 2009, the United paid $36.4 million in prepaid risk-based assessments which is included in other assets in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2009.

United’s FDIC insurance expense totaled $9.2 million, $1.1 million and $569 thousand in 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

 

Item 1A. RISK FACTORS

United is subject to risks inherent to the Company’s business. The material risks and uncertainties that management believes affect the Company are described below. Before making an investment decision, you should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties described below together with all of the other information included or incorporated by reference in this report. The risks and uncertainties described below are not the only ones facing the Company. Additional risks and uncertainties that management is not aware of or focused on or that management currently deems immaterial may also impair United’s business operations. This report is qualified in its entirety by these risk factors.

 

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United’s business may be adversely affected by conditions in financial markets and economic conditions generally

United’s business is concentrated in the West Virginia, Northern Virginia and Shenandoah Valley Virginia market areas. As a result, its financial condition, results of operations and cash flows are subject to changes if there are changes in the economic conditions in these areas. A prolonged period of economic recession or other adverse economic conditions in these areas could have a negative impact on United. A significant decline in general economic conditions nationally, caused by inflation, recession, acts of terrorism, outbreak of hostilities or other international or domestic occurrences, unemployment, changes in securities markets, declines in the housing market, a tightening credit environment or other factors could impact these local economic conditions and, in turn, have a material adverse effect on United’s financial condition and results of operations which occurred during this past year.

Economic conditions began deteriorating during the latter half of 2007 and continued throughout 2009. Business activity across a wide range of industries and regions has been greatly reduced and many businesses are experiencing serious difficulties due to a lack of consumer spending and the lack of liquidity in credit markets. Unemployment has also increased significantly. As a result of this economic crises, many lending institutions, including United, have experienced declines in the performance of their loans, including construction, land development and land loans, commercial loans and consumer loans. Moreover, competition among depository institutions for deposits and quality loans has increased significantly. In addition, the values of real estate collateral supporting many commercial loans and home mortgages have declined and may continue to decline. Overall, the general business environment has had an adverse effect on United’s business, and there can be no assurance that the environment will improve in the near term. Accordingly, until conditions improve, United’s business, financial condition and results of operations could continue to be adversely affected.

The value of certain investment securities is volatile and future declines or other-than-temporary impairments could have a materially adverse affect on future earnings and regulatory capital.

Continued volatility in the fair value for certain investment securities, whether caused by changes in market conditions, interest rates, credit risk of the issuer, the expected yield of the security, or actual defaults in the portfolio could result in significant fluctuations in the value of the securities. This could have a material adverse impact on United’s accumulated other comprehensive income and shareholders’ equity depending on the direction of the fluctuations. Furthermore, future downgrades or defaults in these securities could result in future classifications as other-than-temporarily impaired. This could have a material impact on United’s future earnings, although the impact on shareholders’ equity will be offset by any amount already included in other comprehensive income for securities that were temporarily impairment.

There are no assurances as to adequacy of the allowance for credit losses

United believes that its allowance for credit losses is maintained at a level adequate to absorb any probable losses in its loan portfolio given the current information known to management.

Management establishes the allowance based upon many factors, including, but not limited to:

 

   

historical loan loss experience;

 

   

industry diversification of the commercial loan portfolio;

 

   

the effect of changes in the local real estate market on collateral values;

 

   

the amount of nonperforming loans and related collateral security;

 

   

current economic conditions that may affect the borrower’s ability to pay and value of collateral;

 

   

sources and cost of funds;

 

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volume, growth and composition of the loan portfolio; and

 

   

other factors management believes are relevant.

These determinations are based upon estimates that are inherently subjective, and their accuracy depends on the outcome of future events, so ultimate losses may differ from current estimates. Changes in economic, operating and other conditions, including changes in interest rates, that are generally beyond United’s control, can affect the Company’s credit losses. With the deterioration of economic conditions throughout 2009, United’s credit losses increased. If the economic conditions do not improve or continue to decline, United’s credit losses could continue to increase, perhaps significantly. As a result, such losses could exceed United’s current allowance estimates. United can provide no assurance that its allowance is sufficient to cover actual credit losses should such losses differ substantially from our current estimates.

In addition, federal and state regulators, as an integral part of their respective supervisory functions, periodically review United’s allowance for credit losses.

Changes in interest rates may adversely affect United’s business

United’s earnings, like most financial institutions, are significantly dependent on its net interest income. Net interest income is the difference between the interest income United earns on loans and other assets which earn interest and the interest expense incurred to fund those assets, such as on savings deposits and borrowed money. Therefore, changes in general market interest rates, such as a change in the monetary policy of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System or otherwise beyond those which are contemplated by United’s interest rate risk model and policy, could have an effect on net interest income. For more information concerning United’s interest rate risk model and policy, see the discussion under the caption “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” under Item 7A.

United is subject to credit risk

There are risks inherent in making any loan, including risks with respect to the period of time over which the loan may be repaid, risks resulting from changes in economic and industry conditions, risks inherent in dealing with individual borrowers and risks resulting from uncertainties as to the future value of collateral. United seeks to mitigate the risk inherent in its loan portfolio by adhering to prudent loan approval practices. Although United believes that its loan approval criteria are appropriate for the various kinds of loans the Company makes, United may incur losses on loans that meet our loan approval criteria. Due to recent economic conditions affecting the real estate market, many lending institutions, including United, have experienced substantial declines in the performance of their loans, including construction, land development and land loans. The value of real estate collateral supporting many construction and land development loans, land loans, commercial and multi-family loans have declined and may continue to decline. United cannot assure that the economic conditions affecting customers and the quality of the loan portfolio will improve and thus, United’s financial condition and results of operations could continue to be adversely affected.

Loss of United’s Chief Executive Officer or other executive officers could adversely affect its business

United’s success is dependent upon the continued service and skills of its executive officers and senior management. If United loses the services of these key personnel, it could have a negative impact on United’s business because of their skills, years of industry experience and the difficulty of promptly finding qualified replacement personnel. The services of Richard M. Adams, United’s Chief Executive Officer, would be particularly difficult to replace. United and Mr. Adams are parties to an Employment Agreement providing for his continued employment by United through March 31, 2015.

United operates in a highly competitive market

United faces a high degree of competition in all of the markets it serves. United considers all of West Virginia to be included in its market area. This area includes the five largest West Virginia Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSA): the Parkersburg MSA, the Charleston MSA, the Huntington MSA, the Wheeling MSA and the

 

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Weirton MSA. United serves the Ohio counties of Lawrence, Belmont, Jefferson and Washington primarily because of their close proximity to the Ohio border and United banking offices nearby in West Virginia. In Virginia, United competes in the Northern Virginia counties of Alexandria, Arlington, Loudoun, Prince William, and Fairfax and in the Shenandoah Valley counties of Albemarle, Augusta, Clarke, Frederick, Greene, Rockingham, Shenandoah, and Warren. In addition, United has offices in Washington, D.C. In Maryland, United has offices in Montgomery county. United considers all of the above locations to be the primary market area for the business of its banking subsidiaries.

There is a risk that aggressive competition could result in United controlling a smaller share of these markets. A decline in market share could lead to a decline in net income which would have a negative impact on stockholder value.

Dividend payments by United’s subsidiaries to United and by United to its shareholders can be restricted

The declaration and payment of future cash dividends will depend on, among other things, United’s earnings, the general economic and regulatory climate, United’s liquidity and capital requirements, and other factors deemed relevant by United’s board of directors. Federal Reserve Board policy limits the payment of cash dividends by bank holding companies, without regulatory approval, and requires that a holding company serve as a source of strength to its banking subsidiaries.

United’s principal source of funds to pay dividends on its common stock is cash dividends from its subsidiaries. The payment of these dividends by its subsidiaries is also restricted by federal and state banking laws and regulations. As of December 31, 2009, an aggregate of approximately $28.5 million and $44.6 million was available for dividend payments from United Bank (WV) and United Bank (VA), respectively, to United without regulatory approval.

United may be adversely affected by the soundness of other financial institutions

Financial services institutions are interrelated as a result of trading, clearing, counterparty, or other relationships. United has exposure to many different industries and counterparties, and routinely executes transactions with counterparties in the financial services industry, including brokers and dealers, commercial banks, investment banks, mutual and hedge funds, or other institutional clients. Recent defaults by financial services institutions, and even rumors or questions about a financial institution or the financial services industry in general, have led to marketwide liquidity problems and could lead to losses or defaults by United or other institutions. Any such losses could adversely affect United’s financial condition or results of operations.

United is subject to extensive government regulation and supervision

United is subject to extensive federal and state regulation, supervision and examination. Banking regulations are primarily intended to protect depositors’ funds, federal deposit insurance funds and the banking system as a whole, not shareholders. These regulations affect United’s lending practices, capital structure, investment practices, dividend policy, operations and growth, among other things. These regulations also impose obligations to maintain appropriate policies, procedures and controls, among other things, to detect, prevent and report money laundering and terrorist financing and to verify the identities of United’s customers. Congress and federal regulatory agencies continually review banking laws, regulations and policies for possible changes. Changes to statutes, regulations or regulatory policies, including changes in interpretation or implementation of statutes, regulations or policies, could affect United in substantial and unpredictable ways. Such changes could subject the Company to additional costs, limit the types of financial services and products United may offer and/or increase the ability of nonbanks to offer competing financial services and products, among other things. United expends substantial effort and incurs costs to improve its systems, audit capabilities, staffing and training in order to satisfy regulatory requirements, but the regulatory authorities may determine that such efforts are insufficient. Failure to comply with relevant laws, regulations or policies could result in sanctions by regulatory agencies, civil money penalties and/or reputation damage, which could have a material adverse effect on United’s business, financial condition and results of operations. While the Company has policies and procedures designed to prevent

 

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any such violations, there can be no assurance that such violations will not occur. In addition, the FDIC could impose higher assessments on deposits beyond those already implemented in 2009 based on the adequacy of the deposit insurance fund, conditions of the banking industry and as a result of changes in specific programs. These increased assessments could affect United’s results of operations.

In the normal course of business, United and its subsidiaries are routinely subject to examinations and challenges from federal and state tax authorities regarding the amount of taxes due in connection with investments that the Company has made and the businesses in which United has engaged. Recently, federal and state taxing authorities have become increasingly aggressive in challenging tax positions taken by financial institutions. These tax positions may relate to tax compliance, sales and use, franchise, gross receipts, payroll, property and income tax issues, including tax base, apportionment and tax credit planning. The challenges made by tax authorities may result in adjustments to the timing or amount of taxable income or deductions or the allocation of income among tax jurisdictions. If any such challenges are made and are not resolved in the Company’s favor, they could have a material adverse effect on United’s financial condition and results of operations.

United may elect or be compelled to seek additional capital in the future, but capital may not be available when it is needed

United is required by federal and state regulatory authorities to maintain adequate levels of capital to support the Company’s operations. In addition, United may elect to raise additional capital to support the Company’s business or to finance acquisitions, if any, or United may otherwise elect to raise additional capital. In that regard, a number of financial institutions have recently raised considerable amounts of capital as a result of deterioration in their results of operations and financial condition arising from the turmoil in the mortgage loan market, deteriorating economic conditions, declines in real estate values and other factors, which may diminish United’s ability to raise additional capital.

United’s ability to raise additional capital, if needed, will depend on conditions in the capital markets, economic conditions and a number of other factors, many of which are outside the Company’s control, and on United’s financial performance. Accordingly, United cannot be assured of its ability to raise additional capital if needed or on terms acceptable to the Company. If United cannot raise additional capital when needed, it may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations and prospects.

United’s information systems may experience an interruption or breach in security

United relies heavily on communications and information systems to conduct its business. In addition, as part of its business, United collects, processes and retains sensitive and confidential client and customer information. United’s facilities and systems, and those of our third party service providers, may be vulnerable to security breaches, acts of vandalism, computer viruses, misplaced or lost data, programming and/or human errors, or other similar events. Any failure, interruption or breach in security of these systems could result in failures or disruptions in the Company’s customer relationship management, general ledger, deposit, loan and other systems. While United has policies and procedures designed to prevent or limit the effect of the failure, interruption or security breach of its information systems, there can be no assurance that any such failures, interruptions or security breaches will not occur or, if they do occur, that they will be adequately addressed. The occurrence of any failures, interruptions or security breaches of the Company’s information systems could damage United’s reputation, result in a loss of customer business, subject United to additional regulatory scrutiny, or expose the Company to civil litigation and possible financial liability, any of which could have a material adverse effect on United’s financial condition and results of operations.

 

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Item 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

None

 

Item 2. PROPERTIES

Offices

United is headquartered in the United Center at 500 Virginia Street, East, Charleston, West Virginia. United’s executive offices are located in Parkersburg, West Virginia at Fifth and Avery Streets. United operates one hundred and thirteen (113) full service offices—fifty-three (53) offices located throughout West Virginia, fifty-seven (57) offices in the Shenandoah Valley region of Virginia and the Northern Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C. metropolitan area and three (3) in southeastern Ohio. United owns all of its West Virginia facilities except for two in the Wheeling area, two in the Charleston area, two in the Beckley area, two in the Charles Town area and one each in Parkersburg, Morgantown, and Clarksburg, all of which are leased under operating leases. United owns most of its facilities in the Shenandoah Valley region of Virginia except for ten offices, three in Winchester, one each in Charlottesville, Front Royal, Harrisonburg, Staunton, Waynesboro, Weyers Cave and Woodstock, all of which are leased under operating leases. United leases all of its facilities under operating lease agreements in the Northern Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C. areas except for four offices, one each in Fairfax, Alexandria, and Vienna, Virginia and one in Bethesda, Maryland, which are owned facilities. In Ohio, United leases two of its three facilities, one each in Bellaire and St. Clairsville. United leases an operations center facility in the Charleston, West Virginia area.

 

Item 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

In the normal course of business, United and its subsidiaries are currently involved in various legal proceedings. Management is vigorously pursuing all its legal and factual defenses and, after consultation with legal counsel, believes that all such litigation will be resolved with no material effect on United’s financial position.

 

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 the fiscal year covered by this report.

 

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UNITED BANKSHARES, INC.

FORM 10-K, PART II

 

Item 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

Stock

As of January 31, 2010, 100,000,000 shares of common stock, par value $2.50 per share, were authorized for United, of which 44,319,157 were issued, including 880,417 shares held as treasury shares. The outstanding shares are held by approximately 6,599 shareholders of record, as well as 19,499 shareholders in street name as of January 31, 2010. The unissued portion of United’ s authorized common stock (subject to registration approval by the SEC) and the treasury shares are available for issuance as the Board of Directors determines advisable. United offers its shareholders the opportunity to invest dividends in shares of United stock through its dividend reinvestment plan. United has also established stock option plans and a stock bonus plan as incentive for certain eligible officers. In addition to the above incentive plans, United is occasionally involved in certain mergers in which additional shares could be issued and recognizes that additional shares could be issued for other appropriate purposes.

In May of 2006, United’s Board of Directors approved a new stock repurchase plan, whereby United could buy up to 1,700,000 shares of its common stock in the open market. During 2009 and 2008, no shares were repurchased under the plan.

The Board of Directors believes that the availability of authorized but unissued common stock of United is of considerable value if opportunities should arise for the acquisition of other businesses through the issuance of United’s stock. Shareholders do not have preemptive rights, which allows United to issue additional authorized shares without first offering them to current shareholders.

Currently, United has only one voting class of stock issued and outstanding and all voting rights are vested in the holders of United’s common stock. On all matters subject to a vote of shareholders, the shareholders of United will be entitled to one vote for each share of common stock owned. Shareholders of United have cumulative voting rights with regard to election of directors.

On December 23, 2008, the shareholders of United authorized the issuance of preferred stock up to 50,000,000 shares with a par value of $1.00 per share. The authorized preferred stock may be issued by the Company’s Board of Directors in one or more series, from time to time, with each such series to consist of such number of shares and to have such voting powers, full or limited, or no voting powers, and such designations, preferences and relative, participating, optional or other special rights, and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof, as shall be stated in the resolution or resolutions providing for the issuance of such series adopted by the Board of Directors. Currently, no shares of preferred stock have been issued.

The authorization of preferred stock will not have an immediate effect on the holders of the Company’s common stock. The actual effect of the issuance of any shares of preferred stock upon the rights of the holders of common stock cannot be stated until the Board of Directors determines the specific rights of any shares of preferred stock. However, the effects might include, among other things, restricting dividends on common stock, diluting the voting power of common stock, reducing the market price of common stock or impairing the liquidation rights of the common stock without further action by the shareholders. Holders of the common stock will not have preemptive rights with respect to the preferred stock.

There are no preemptive or conversion rights or, redemption or sinking fund provisions with respect to United’s stock. All of the issued and outstanding shares of United’s stock are fully paid and non-assessable.

 

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Dividends

The shareholders of United are entitled to receive dividends when and as declared by its Board of Directors. Dividends have been paid quarterly. Dividends were $1.17 per share in 2009, $1.16 per share in 2008 and $1.13 per share in 2007. See “Market and Stock Prices of United” for quarterly dividend information.

The payment of dividends is subject to the restrictions set forth in the West Virginia Corporation Act and the limitations imposed by the Federal Reserve Board. Payment of dividends by United is dependent upon receipt of dividends from its Banking Subsidiaries. Payment of dividends by United’s state member Banking Subsidiaries is regulated by the Federal Reserve System and generally, the prior approval of the Federal Reserve Board (FRB) is required if the total dividends declared by a state member bank in any calendar year exceeds its net profits, as defined, for that year combined with its retained net profits for the preceding two years. Additionally, prior approval of the FRB is required when a state member bank has deficit retained earnings but has sufficient current year’s net income, as defined, plus the retained net profits of the two preceding years. The FRB may prohibit dividends if it deems the payment to be an unsafe or unsound banking practice. The FRB has issued guidelines for dividend payments by state member banks emphasizing that proper dividend size depends on the bank’s earnings and capital. See Note Q, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Market and Stock Prices of United

United Bankshares, Inc. stock is traded over the counter on the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotations System, Global Select Market (NASDAQ) under the trading symbol UBSI. The closing sale price reported for United’s common stock on February 22, 2010, the last practicable date, was $25.00.

The high and low prices listed below are based upon information available to United’s management from NASDAQ listings. No attempt has been made by United’s management to ascertain the prices for every sale of its stock during the periods indicated. However, based on the information available, United’s management believes that the prices fairly represent the amounts at which United’s stock was traded during the periods reflected.

The following table presents the dividends and high and low prices of United’s common stock during the periods set forth below:

 

2010

   Dividends     High    Low

First Quarter through February 22, 2010

   $ 0.30 (1)    $ 25.20    $ 20.15

2009

               

Fourth Quarter

   $ 0.30      $ 20.81    $ 16.39

Third Quarter

   $ 0.29      $ 23.56    $ 16.68

Second Quarter

   $ 0.29      $ 27.75    $ 16.81

First Quarter

   $ 0.29      $ 33.64    $ 13.15

2008

               

Fourth Quarter

   $ 0.29      $ 35.00    $ 21.05

Third Quarter

   $ 0.29      $ 42.00    $ 18.52

Second Quarter

   $ 0.29      $ 31.33    $ 22.95

First Quarter

   $ 0.29      $ 33.07    $ 24.00

 

(1)

On February 22, 2010, United declared a dividend of $0.30 per share, payable April 1, 2010, to shareholders of record as of March 12, 2010.

 

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Stock Performance Graph

The following Stock Performance Graph and related information shall not be deemed “soliciting material” or to be “filed” with the Securities and Exchange Commission, nor shall such information be incorporated by reference into any future filing under the Securities Act of 1933 or Securities Exchange Act of 1934, each as amended, except to the extent that United specifically incorporates it by reference into such filing.

The following graph compares United’s cumulative total shareholder return (assuming reinvestment of dividends) on its common stock for the five-year period ending December 31, 2009, with the cumulative total return (assuming reinvestment of dividends) of the Standard and Poor’s Midcap 400 Index and with the NASDAQ Bank Index. The cumulative total shareholder return assumes a $100 investment on December 31, 2004 in the common stock of United and each index and the cumulative return is measured as of each subsequent fiscal year-end. There is no assurance that United’s common stock performance will continue in the future with the same or similar trends as depicted in the graph.

LOGO

 

     Period Ending
     12/31/04    12/31/05    12/31/06    12/31/07    12/31/08    12/31/09

United Bankshares, Inc.

   100.00    95.20    107.46    80.78    99.71    63.71

NASDAQ Bank Index

   100.00    98.08    111.60    89.42    70.24    58.78

S&P Mid-Cap Index

   100.00    112.54    124.13    134.02    85.49    117.37

 

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Issuer Repurchases

The table below includes certain information regarding United’s purchase of its common shares during the three months ended December 31, 2009:

 

Period

   Total Number
of Shares
Purchased

(1) (2)
   Average
Price Paid
per Share
   Total Number of
Shares
Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced
Plans (3)
   Maximum Number
of Shares that May
Yet be Purchased
Under the Plans (3)

10/01 – 10/31/2009

   21    $ 19.43    —      322,200

11/01 – 11/30/2009

   671    $ 19.05    —      322,200

12/01 – 12/31/2009

   —        —      —      322,200
                 

Total

   692    $ 19.06      
                 

 

(1) Includes shares exchanged in connection with the exercise of stock options under United’s stock option plans. Shares are purchased pursuant to the terms of the applicable stock option plan and not pursuant to a publicly announced stock repurchase plan. For the quarter ended December 31, 2008, the following shares were exchanged by participants in United’s stock option plans: November 2009 – 7,450 shares at an average price of $16.59.
(2) Includes shares purchased in open market transactions by United for a rabbi trust to provide payment of benefits under a deferred compensation plan for certain key officers of United and its subsidiaries. For the quarter ended December 31, 2009, the following shares were purchased for the deferred compensation plan: October 2009 – 21 shares at an average price of $19.43; and November 2009 –671 shares at an average price of $19.05.
(3) In May of 2006, United’s Board of Directors approved a repurchase plan to repurchase up to 1,700,000 shares of United’s common stock on the open market (the 2006 Plan). The timing, price and quantity of purchases under the plans are at the discretion of management and the plan may be discontinued, suspended or restarted at any time depending on the facts and circumstances.

 

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Item 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

The following consolidated selected financial data is derived from United’s audited financial statements as of and for the five years ended December 31, 2009. The selected financial data should be read in conjunction with Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and the Consolidated Financial Statements and related notes contained elsewhere in this report.

 

     Five Year Summary  
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)    2009     2008     2007     2006     2005  

Summary of Operations:

          

Total interest income

   $ 365,845      $ 429,911      $ 438,729      $ 400,683      $ 345,278   

Total interest expense

     120,374        177,119        213,310        181,090        124,451   

Net interest income

     245,471        252,792        225,419        219,593        220,827   

Provision for loan losses

     46,065        25,155        5,330        1,437        5,618   

Other income

     53,970        67,303        57,749        49,033        52,625   

Other expense

     175,127        171,073        147,929        137,173        121,160   

Income taxes

     10,951        36,913        39,235        40,767        46,265   

Net income

     67,298        86,954        90,674        89,249        100,409   

Cash dividends

     50,837        50,231        47,446        45,219        44,575   

Per common share:

          

Net income:

          

Basic

     1.55        2.01        2.16        2.15        2.36   

Diluted

     1.55        2.00        2.15        2.13        2.33   

Cash dividends

     1.17        1.16        1.13        1.09        1.05   

Book value per share

     17.53        16.97        17.61        15.44        15.12   

Selected Ratios:

          

Return on average shareholders’ equity

     8.81     11.12     12.99     13.90     15.66

Return on average assets

     0.85     1.09     1.28     1.34     1.55

Dividend payout ratio

     75.54     57.77     52.33     50.67     44.39

Selected Balance Sheet Data:

          

Average assets

   $ 7,925,506      $ 8,007,068      $ 7,100,885      $ 6,641,224      $ 6,465,764   

Investment securities

     966,920        1,291,822        1,394,764        1,275,470        1,501,966   

Loans held for sale

     5,284        868        1,270        2,041        3,324   

Total loans

     5,736,809        6,014,155        5,793,484        4,806,747        4,649,829   

Total assets

     7,805,101        8,102,091        7,994,739        6,717,598        6,728,492   

Total deposits

     5,971,100        5,647,954        5,349,750        4,828,192        4,617,452   

Long-term borrowings

     771,935        852,685        774,162        499,200        547,731   

Total liabilities

     7,043,551        7,365,379        7,233,540        6,083,506        6,093,287   

Shareholders’ equity

     761,550        736,712        761,199        634,092        635,205   

 

Item 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Congress passed the Private Securities Litigation Act of 1995 to encourage corporations to provide investors with information about the company’s anticipated future financial performance, goals, and strategies. The act provides a safe haven for such disclosure; in other words, protection from unwarranted litigation if actual results are not the same as management expectations.

United desires to provide its shareholders with sound information about past performance and future trends. Consequently, any forward-looking statements contained in this report, in a report incorporated by reference to this report, or made by management of United in this report, in any other reports and filings, in press releases and in oral statements, involve numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those contained in or implied by

 

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United’s statements for a variety of factors including, but not limited to: changes in economic conditions; business conditions in the banking industry; movements in interest rates; competitive pressures on product pricing and services; success and timing of business strategies; the nature and extent of governmental actions and reforms; and rapidly changing technology and evolving banking industry standards.

INTRODUCTION

The following discussion and analysis presents the significant changes in financial condition and the results of operations of United and its subsidiaries for the periods indicated below. This discussion and the consolidated financial statements and the notes to consolidated financial statements include the accounts of United Bankshares, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, unless otherwise indicated. Management has evaluated all significant events and transactions that occurred after December 31, 2009, but prior to February 26, 2010, the date these financial statements were issued, for potential recognition or disclosure required in these financial statements.

This discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes thereto, which are included elsewhere in this document.

APPLICATION OF CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The accounting and reporting policies of United conform with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. In preparing the consolidated financial statements, management is required to make estimates, assumptions and judgments that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. These estimates, assumptions and judgments, which are reviewed with the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors, are based on information available as of the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from these estimates. These policies, along with the disclosures presented in the financial statement notes and in this financial review, provide information on how significant assets and liabilities are valued in the financial statements and how those values are determined. Based on the valuation techniques used and the sensitivity of financial statement amounts to the methods, assumptions, and estimates underlying those amounts, management has identified the determination of the allowance for credit losses, the valuation of investment securities and the related other-than-temporary impairment analysis, the accounting for and the valuation of derivative instruments, and the calculation of the income tax provision to be the accounting areas that require the most subjective or complex judgments, and as such could be most subject to revision as new information becomes available. The most significant accounting policies followed by United are presented in Note A, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

The allowance for credit losses represents management’s estimate of the probable credit losses inherent in the lending portfolio. Determining the allowance for credit losses requires management to make forecasts of losses that are highly uncertain and require a high degree of judgment. At December 31, 2009, the allowance for loan losses was $67.9 million and is subject to periodic adjustment based on management’s assessment of current probable losses in the loan portfolio. Such adjustment from period to period can have a significant impact on United’s consolidated financial statements. To illustrate the potential effect on the financial statements of our estimates of the allowance for loan losses, a 10% increase in the allowance for loan losses would have required $6.8 million in additional allowance (funded by additional provision for credit losses), which would have negatively impacted the year of 2009 net income by approximately $4.4 million, or $0.10 diluted per common share. Management’s evaluation of the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses and the appropriate provision for credit losses is based upon a quarterly evaluation of the loan portfolio and lending related commitments. This evaluation is inherently subjective and requires significant estimates, including estimates related to the amounts and timing of future cash flows, value of collateral, losses on pools of homogeneous loans based on historical loss experience, and consideration of current economic trends, all of which are susceptible to constant and significant change. The allowance allocated to specific credits and loan pools grouped by similar risk characteristics is reviewed on a quarterly basis and adjusted as necessary based upon subsequent changes in circumstances. In determining the components of the allowance for credit losses, management considers the risk arising in part from, but not limited to, charge-off and delinquency trends, current economic and business conditions, lending policies and procedures, the size and risk characteristics of the loan portfolio, concentrations of credit, and other various factors. The methodology used to determine the allowance for credit losses is described in Note A, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. A discussion of the factors leading to changes in the amount of the allowance for credit losses is included in the Provision for Credit Losses section of this Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial

 

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Condition and Results of Operations (MD&A). As discussed in the MD&A, the increase in the allowance for credit losses in 2009 as compared to 2008 can be directly attributed to the current economic environment. For a discussion of concentrations of credit risk, see Item 1, under the caption of Loan Concentrations in this Form 10-K.

Accounting estimates are used in the presentation of the investment portfolio and these estimates impact the presentation of United’s financial condition and results of operations. United classifies its investments in debt and equity securities as either held to maturity or available for sale. Securities held to maturity are accounted for using historical costs, adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts. Securities available for sale are accounted for at fair value, with the net unrealized gains and losses, net of income tax effects, presented as a separate component of stockholders’ equity. When available, fair values of securities are based on quoted prices or prices obtained from third party vendors. Third party vendors compile prices from various sources and may determine the fair value of identical or similar securities by using pricing models that consider observable market data. Prices obtained from third party vendors that do not reflect forced liquidation or distressed sales are not adjusted by management. Where prices reflect forced liquidation or distressed sales, as is the case with United’s portfolio of pooled trust preferred securities, management estimates fair value based on a discounted cash flow methodology using appropriately adjusted discount rates reflecting nonperformance and liquidity risks. Due to the subjective nature of this valuation process, it is possible that the actual fair values of these securities could differ from the estimated amounts, thereby affecting United’s financial position, results of operations and cash flows. The potential impact to United’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows for changes in the valuation process cannot be reasonably estimated.

If the estimated value of investments is less than the cost or amortized cost, the investment is considered impaired and management evaluates whether an event or change in circumstances has occurred that may have a significant adverse effect on the fair value of the investment. If such an event or change has occurred, management must exercise judgment to determine the nature of the potential impairment (i.e., temporary or other-than-temporary) in order to apply the appropriate accounting treatment. If United intends to sell, or is more likely than not will be required to sell an impaired debt security before recovery of its amortized cost basis less any current period credit loss, other-than-temporary impairment is recognized in earnings. The amount recognized in earnings is equal to the entire difference between the security’s amortized cost basis and its fair value at the balance sheet date. If United does not intend to sell, and is not more likely than not they will be required to sell the impaired debt security prior to recovery of its amortized cost basis less any current-period credit loss, the other-than-temporary impairment is separated into the following: 1) the amount representing the credit loss, which is recognized in earnings, and 2) the amount related to all other factors, which is recognized in other comprehensive income. Given the recent disruptions in the financial markets, the decision to recognize other-than-temporary impairment on investment securities has become more difficult as complete information is not always available and market conditions and other relevant factors are subject to rapid changes. Therefore, the other-than-temporary impairment assessment has become a critical accounting policy for United. For additional information on management’s consideration of investment valuation and other-than-temporary impairment, see Note B and Note R, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

United uses derivative instruments as part of its risk management activities to protect the value of certain assets and liabilities against adverse price or interest rate movements. All derivative instruments are carried at fair value on the balance sheet. United considers derivative instruments to be a critical accounting policy due to the complexity and judgment associated with the implementation of the accounting guidance and because carrying assets and liabilities at fair value inherently result in more financial statement volatility. The accounting policies utilized by the Company to record derivatives reflect the guidance in the Derivatives and Hedging topic of the FASB Accounting Standards Codification and other related accounting guidance. In accordance with the guidance, all derivatives are recognized as either assets or liabilities on the balance sheet at fair value. Fair values and the information used to record valuation adjustments for certain assets and liabilities are provided by third parties. Accounting for changes in the fair value of a particular derivative differs depending on whether the derivative has been designated and qualifies as part of a hedging relationship, and further, on the type of hedging relationship. At December 31, 2009, United has one derivative designated as a cash flow hedge and three derivatives designated as fair value hedges. The application of hedge accounting requires significant judgment to interpret the relevant accounting guidance, as well as to assess hedge effectiveness, identify similar hedged item groupings and measure changes in the fair value of the hedged items. At December 31, 2009, United also has three derivatives not included in hedge relationships. Such derivatives consist of interest rate swaps used for interest rate management purposes and derivatives executed with commercial banking customers to facilitate their interest rate management strategies. Gains and losses on other derivative financial instruments are included in noninterest income and noninterest expense, respectively. Management believes that its methods of addressing these

 

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judgmental areas and applying the guidance are in accordance with GAAP and consistent with industry practices. Interpretations of the Derivatives and Hedging topic of the FASB Accounting Standards Codification and related guidance continue to change and evolve. Future interpretations could result in material changes to United’s accounting for derivative financial instruments and related hedging activities. Although such changes may not have a material effect on financial condition, they could have a material adverse effect on United’s results of operations in the period they occur. However, the potential impact to United’s operating results for such changes cannot be reasonably estimated. Additional information relating to United’s use of derivatives is included in Note N, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

United’s calculation of income tax provision is inherently complex due to the various different tax laws and jurisdictions in which we operate and requires management’s use of estimates and judgments in its determination. The current income tax liability also includes income tax expense related to our uncertain tax positions as required in ASC topic 740, “Income Taxes.” Changes to the estimated accrued taxes can occur due to changes in tax rates, implementation of new business strategies, resolution of issues with taxing authorities and recently enacted statutory, judicial and regulatory guidance. These changes can be material to the Company’s operating results for any particular reporting period. The analysis of the income tax provision requires the assessments of the relative risks and merits of the appropriate tax treatment of transactions, filing positions, filing methods and taxable income calculations after considering statutes, regulations, judicial precedent and other information. United strives to keep abreast of changes in the tax laws and the issuance of regulations which may impact tax reporting and provisions for income tax expense. United is also subject to audit by federal and state authorities. Because the application of tax laws is subject to varying interpretations, results of these audits may produce indicated liabilities which differ from United’s estimates and provisions. United continually evaluates its exposure to possible tax assessments arising from audits and records its estimate of probable exposure based on current facts and circumstances. The potential impact to United’s operating results for any of the changes cannot be reasonably estimated. See Note J, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for information regarding United’s ASC topic 740 disclosures.

Any material effect on the financial statements related to these critical accounting areas is further discussed in this Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

USE OF FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

United determines the fair value of its financial instruments based on the fair value hierarchy established in ASC topic 820, whereby the fair value of certain assets and liabilities is an exit price, representing the amount that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. ASC topic 820 establishes a three-level hierarchy for disclosure of assets and liabilities recorded at fair value. The classification of assets and liabilities within the hierarchy is based on whether the inputs in the methodology for determining fair value are observable or unobservable. Observable inputs reflect market-based information obtained from independent sources (Level 1 or Level 2), while unobservable inputs reflect management’s estimate of market data (Level 3). For assets and liabilities that are actively traded and have quoted prices or observable market data, a minimal amount of subjectivity concerning fair value is needed. Prices and values obtained from third party vendors that do not reflect forced liquidation or distressed sales are not adjusted by management. When quoted prices or observable market data are not available, management’s judgment is necessary to estimate fair value.

At December 31, 2009, approximately 11.45% of total assets, or $893.54 million, consisted of financial instruments recorded at fair value. Of this total, approximately 91.09% or $813.90 million of these financial instruments used valuation methodologies involving observable market data, collectively Level 1 and Level 2 measurements, to determine fair value. Approximately 8.91% or $79.64 million of these financial instruments were valued using unobservable market information or Level 3 measurements. Most of these financial instruments valued using unobservable market information were pooled trust preferred investment securities classified as available-for-sale. At December 31, 2009, only $12.85 million or less than 1% of total liabilities were recorded at fair value. This entire amount was valued using methodologies involving observable market data. United does not believe that any changes in the unobservable inputs used to value the financial instruments mentioned above would have a material impact on United’s results of operations, liquidity, or capital resources. See Note R for additional information regarding ASC topic 820 and its impact on United’s financial statements.

 

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2009 COMPARED TO 2008

FINANCIAL CONDITION SUMMARY

United’s total assets as of December 31, 2009 were $7.81 billion which was a decline of $296.99 million or 3.67% from December 31, 2008. The decrease was primarily the result of decreases in investment securities and portfolio loans of $324.90 million or 25.15% and $277.35 million or 4.61%, respectively. Partially offsetting these decreases to total assets was a $236.23 million increase in cash and cash equivalents. The decrease in total assets is reflected in a corresponding decrease in total liabilities of $321.83 million or 4.37% from year-end 2008. The decrease in total liabilities was due mainly to a reduction of $636.13 million or 39.00% in borrowings while accrued expenses and other liabilities decreased $8.90 million or 10.55%. Deposits increased $323.15 million or 5.72% from year-end 2008. Shareholders’ equity increased $24.84 million or 3.37% from year-end 2008.

The following discussion explains in more detail the changes in financial condition by major category.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at December 31, 2009 increased $236.23 million or 110.63% from year-end 2008 as United placed its excess cash in an interest-bearing account with the Federal Reserve. Of this total increase, interest-bearing deposits with other banks increased $300.26 million due mainly to the cash placed at the Federal Reserve while cash and due from banks decreased $56.29 million or 29.49% and federal funds sold decreased $7.74 million or 91.52%. During the year of 2009, net cash of $53.66 million and $545.16 million was provided by operating activities and investing activities, respectively. Net cash of $362.59 million was used in financing activities. Further details related to changes in cash and cash equivalents are presented in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

Securities

Total investment securities decreased $324.90 million or 25.15% from year-end 2008. Securities available for sale declined $285.27 million or 26.00%. This change in securities available for sale reflects $512.56 million in sales, maturities and calls of securities, $233.16 million in purchases, and a slight increase of $308 thousand in market value. Securities held to maturity decreased $38.99 million or 33.49% from year-end 2008 due to calls and maturities of securities. Other investment securities were relatively flat, only declining $650 thousand or less than 1% from year-end 2008 due to an other-than-temporary impairment charge of $782 thousand on an investment security during the second quarter of 2009.

The following is a summary of available for sale securities at December 31:

 

     2009    2008    2007
     (In thousands)

U.S. Treasury and other U.S. Government agencies and corporations

   $ 4,960    $ 10,704    $ 42,689

States and political subdivisions

     96,900      112,720      117,713

Mortgage-backed securities

     624,396      883,361      846,037

Marketable equity securities

     5,277      5,070      6,752

Corporate securities

     148,009      153,261      149,823
                    

TOTAL AVAILABLE FOR SALE SECURITIES, at amortized cost

   $ 879,542    $ 1,165,116    $ 1,163,014
                    

TOTAL AVAILABLE FOR SALE SECURITIES, at fair value

   $ 811,777    $ 1,097,043    $ 1,156,561
                    

 

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The following is a summary of held to maturity securities at December 31:

 

     2009    2008    2007
     (In thousands)

U.S. Treasury and other U.S. Government agencies and corporations

   $ 11,331    $ 11,455    $ 11,572

States and political subdivisions

     25,904      34,495      59,466

Mortgage-backed securities

     110      135      165

Corporate securities

     40,076      70,322      86,025
                    

TOTAL HELD TO MATURITY SECURITIES, at amortized cost

   $ 77,421    $ 116,407    $ 157,228
                    

TOTAL HELD TO MATURITY SECURITIES, at fair value

   $ 70,535    $ 103,505    $ 158,165
                    

Gross unrealized losses on investment securities were $99.55 million at December 31, 2009. Securities in a continuous unrealized loss position for twelve months or more at December 31, 2009 consisted primarily of mortgage-backed and corporate securities. The unrealized loss on mortgage-backed securities portfolio relates primarily to AAA securities of various private label issuers. The unrealized loss on corporate securities was mainly related to single issue trust preferred securities and trust preferred collateralized debt obligations.

As of December 31, 2009, United’s corporate securities had an amortized cost of $188.09 million, with an estimated fair value of $100.68 million. The portfolio consisted primarily of $132.46 million in pooled trust preferred securities with a fair value of $59.29 million and $49.05 million in single issue trust preferred securities with an estimated fair value of $34.81 million. In addition to the trust preferred securities, the Company held positions in various other securities with an amortized cost of $11.85 million and a fair value of $11.85 million, none of which were individually significant.

The pooled trust preferred securities consisted of positions in 24 different securities. The underlying issuers in the pools were primarily financial institutions and to a lesser extent, insurance companies. The Company has no exposure to Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) in its investment portfolio. The Company owns both senior and mezzanine tranches in pooled trust preferred securities; however, the Company does not own any income notes. The senior and mezzanine tranches of trust preferred collateralized debt obligations generally have some protection from defaults in the form of over-collateralization and excess spread revenues, along with waterfall structures that redirect cash flows in the event certain coverage test requirements are failed. Generally, senior tranches have the greatest protection, with mezzanine tranches subordinated to the senior tranches, and income notes subordinated to the mezzanine tranches. Senior tranches represent $25.21 million of the Company’s pooled securities, while mezzanine tranches represent $107.25 million. Of the $107.25 million in mezzanine tranches, $19.15 million are now in the Senior position as the Senior notes have been paid to a zero balance. As of December 31, 2009, $15.00 million of the pooled trust preferred securities were investment grade, while $7.39 million were split rated with one investment grade rating and one below investment grade rating, and $110.07 million were below investment grade. In terms of capital adequacy, the Company allocates additional risk-based capital to the below investment grade securities.

Of the $49.05 million in single issue trust preferred securities at December 31, 2009, $19.01 million or 38.75% were investment grade; $14.56 million or 29.68% were unrated; $8.90 million or 18.15% were split rated; and $6.58 million or 13.42% were below investment grade. The three largest exposures accounted for 50.46% of the $49.05 million. These included Wells Fargo at $10.14 million, SunTrust Bank at $7.36 million and Peoples Bancorp, Inc. at $7.25 million. All single-issue trust preferred securities are currently receiving full scheduled principal and interest payments.

Management recognized net other-than-temporary impairment charges totaling $13.37 million on both single issue trust preferred securities and pooled trust preferred securities during 2009. Other than these securities, management does not believe that any other individual security with an unrealized loss as of December 31, 2009 is other-than-temporarily impaired. United believes the decline in value resulted from changes in market interest rates, credit spreads and liquidity, not an adverse change in the expected contractual cash flows. Based on a review of each of the securities in the investment portfolio, management concluded that is was not probable that it would be unable to realize the cost basis investment and appropriate interest payments on such securities. United has the intent and the ability to hold these securities until such time as the value recovers or the securities mature. However, United acknowledges that any impaired securities may be sold in future periods in response to significant, unanticipated changes in asset/liability management decisions, unanticipated future market movements or business plan changes.

 

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More information relating to investment securities is presented in Note B, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Loans

Loans held for sale increased $4.42 million as loan originations exceeded loan sales in the secondary market during the year of 2009. Portfolio loans, net of unearned income, decreased $277.35 million or 4.61% from year-end 2008 due mainly to a decrease in commercial loans (not secured by real estate) of $166.67 million or 13.07%. Single-family residential real estate loans and construction loans declined $55.92 million or 2.92% and $42.39 million or 7.04%, respectively. Commercial real estate loans decreased $27.68 million or 1.68% while other real estate loans increased $30.19 million or 12.31%, respectively. Consumer loans decreased $17.31 million or 5.16%.

Major classifications of loans are as follows:

 

     December 31  
     2009     2008     2007     2006     2005  
                 (In thousands)              

Commercial, financial and agricultural

   $ 1,108,265      $ 1,274,937      $ 1,210,049      $ 954,024      $ 934,780   

Real estate mortgage

     3,754,472        3,807,876        3,629,946        2,986,774        2,994,406   

Real estate construction

     559,602        601,995        601,323        523,042        347,274   

Consumer

     318,439        335,750        359,243        349,868        380,062   

Less: Unearned interest

     (3,969     (6,403     (7,077     (6,961     (6,693
                                        

Total loans

     5,736,809        6,014,155        5,793,484        4,806,747        4,649,829   

Allowance for loan losses

     (67,853     (61,494     (50,456     (43,629     (44,138
                                        

TOTAL LOANS, NET

   $ 5,668,956      $ 5,952,661      $ 5,743,028      $ 4,763,118      $ 4,605,691   
                                        

Loans held for sale

   $ 5,284      $ 868      $ 1,270      $ 2,041      $ 3,324   
                                        

The following table shows the maturity of commercial, financial, and agricultural loans and real estate construction outstanding as of December 31, 2009:

 

(In thousands)    Less Than
One Year
   One To
Five Years
   Over
Five Years
   Total

Commercial, financial and agricultural

   $ 603,573    $ 297,098    $ 207,594    $ 1,108,265

Real estate construction

     324,008      171,089      64,505      559,602
                           

Total

   $ 927,581    $ 468,187    $ 272,099    $ 1,667,867
                           

At December 31, 2009, commercial, financial and agricultural loans and real estate construction outstanding by maturity are as follows:

 

(In thousands)    Less Than
One Year
   One to
Five Years
   Over
Five Years
   Total

Outstanding with fixed interest rates

   $ 476,945    $ 236,168    $ 186,370    $ 899,483

Outstanding with adjustable rates

     450,636      232,019      85,729      768,384
                           
   $ 927,581    $ 468,187    $ 272,099    $ 1,667,867
                           

More information relating to loans is presented in Note C, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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Other Assets

Other assets increased $76.85 million or 31.95% from year-end 2008 due mainly to increases of $35.85 million in prepaid FDIC assessments due to a required three year prepayment of premiums, $20.24 million in OREO due to increased foreclosures as a result of the current economic conditions, $14.66 million in the prepaid pension assets due to a contribution payment of $11 million in the third quarter of 2009, $4.40 million in deferred tax assets, $3.83 million in income taxes receivable and $3.42 million in the cash surrender values of bank-owned life insurance policies. The increase in income taxes receivable for the year of 2009 was due to a tax benefit associated with net operating loss carryforwards and a positive adjustment to income taxes as a result of a concluded state tax examination. Partially offsetting these increases from year-end 2008 were decreases in core deposit intangibles of $2.56 million due to amortization and derivatives assets of $2.43 million due to a change in fair value.

Deposits

Deposits represent United’s primary source of funding. Total deposits at December 31, 2009 increased $323.15 million or 5.72% from year-end 2008. In terms of composition, noninterest-bearing deposits increased $202.06 million or 22.30% while interest-bearing deposits increased $121.09 million or 2.55% from December 31, 2008.

The increase in noninterest-bearing deposits was due mainly to increases in commercial noninterest-bearing deposits of $157.04 million or 25.02%, personal noninterest-bearing deposits of $29.52 million or 12.17% and official checks of $6.97 million or 19.43%.

The increase in interest-bearing deposits was due mainly to an increase in time deposits over $100,000 of $314.41 million or 31.08%. Most of this increase was due mainly to a shift in Certificate of Deposit Account Registry Service (CDARS) balances from certificate of deposits under $100,000 as a result of the increase in the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) insurance coverage from $100,000 to $250,000. Interest-bearing money market accounts (MMDAs) increased $174.71 million or 12.98%. In addition, regular savings balances increased $26.50 million or 8.22% and interest-bearing checking deposits increased $82.59 million or 47.18%. Time deposits under $100,000 decreased $477.12 million or 25.29% due mainly to the movement of CDARS balances to certificate of deposits over $100,000.

The table below summarizes the changes by deposit category since year-end 2008:

 

     December 31
2009
   December 31
2008
   $ Change     % Change  
(Dollars in thousands)                       

Demand deposits

   $ 575,501    $ 419,091    $ 156,410      37.32

Interest-bearing checking

     257,654      175,065      82,589      47.18

Regular savings

     348,982      322,478      26,504      8.22

Money market accounts

     2,053,829      1,833,472      220,357      12.02

Time deposits under $100,000

     1,409,137      1,886,256      (477,119   (25.29 )% 

Time deposits over $100,000

     1,325,997      1,011,592      314,405      31.08
                            

Total deposits

   $ 5,971,100    $ 5,647,954    $ 323,146      5.72
                            

At December 31, 2009, the scheduled maturities of time deposits are as follows:

 

Year

   Amount
(In thousands)     

2010

   $ 2,060,035

2011

     354,370

2012

     139,860

2013

     84,729

2014 and thereafter

     96,140
      

TOTAL

   $ 2,735,134
      

 

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Maturities of time certificates of deposit of $100,000 or more outstanding at December 31, 2009 are summarized as follows:

 

( In thousands)    Amount

3 months or less

   $ 651,516

Over 3 through 6 months

     220,665

Over 6 through 12 months

     227,952

Over 12 months

     225,864
      

TOTAL

   $ 1,325,997
      

The average daily amount of deposits and rates paid on such deposits is summarized for the years ended December 31:

 

     2009     2008     2007  
      Amount    Interest
Expense
   Rate     Amount    Interest
Expense
   Rate     Amount    Interest
Expense
   Rate  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Demand deposits

   $ 275,331      —      —        $ 210,244      —      —        $ 202,319      —      —     

NOW and money market deposits

     2,346,354    $ 8,980    0.38     2,203,701    $ 17,571    0.80     2,136,375    $ 37,337    1.75

Savings deposits

     346,887      300    0.09     334,564      638    0.19     334,155      1,970    0.59

Time deposits

     2,829,599      74,183    2.62     2,688,521      105,826    3.94     2,313,736      107,611    4.65
                                                

TOTAL

   $ 5,798,171    $ 83,463    1.44   $ 5,437,030    $ 124,035    2.28   $ 4,986,585    $ 146,918    2.95
                                                

More information relating to deposits is presented in Note G, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Borrowings

Total borrowings at December 31, 2009 decreased $636.13 million or 39.00% during the year of 2009. Since year-end 2008, short-term borrowings decreased $555.38 million or 71.36% due to a $212 million reduction in overnight FHLB borrowings, a $222.77 million decrease in securities sold under agreements to repurchase and a $120.35 million decline in federal funds purchased. Long-term borrowings decreased $80.75 million or 9.47% since year-end 2008.

The table below summarizes the changes by borrowing category since year-end 2008:

 

     December 31    Amount
Change
    Percentage
Change
 
(Dollars in thousands)    2009    2008     

Federal funds purchased

   $ 7,835    $ 128,185    $ (120,350   (93.89 )% 

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase

     211,659      434,425      (222,766   (51.28 )% 

Overnight FHLB advances

     —        212,000      (212,000   (100.00 )% 

TT&L note option

     3,450      3,710      (260   (7.01 )% 

Long-term FHLB advances

     587,213      667,538      (80,325   (12.03 )% 

Issuances of trust preferred capital securities

     184,722      185,147      (425   (0.23 )% 
                            

Total borrowings

   $ 994,879    $ 1,631,005    $ (636,126   (39.00 )% 
                            

For a further discussion of borrowings see Notes H and I, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities

Accrued expenses and other liabilities at December 31, 2009 decreased $8.90 million or 10.55% from year-end 2008 mainly as a result of decreases of $6.15 million in derivative liabilities due to a change in fair value and $5.41 million in interest payable due to a decline in borrowings and interest rates on certificate of deposits. Partially offsetting these decreases were increases in deferred compensation of $1.26 million and income taxes payable of $1.17 million.

 

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Shareholders’ Equity

Shareholders’ equity at December 31, 2009 increased $24.84 million or 3.37% from December 31, 2008 as United continued to balance capital adequacy and the return to shareholders. The increase in shareholders’ equity was due mainly to increases in retained earnings and accumulated other comprehensive income.

Retained earnings increased due to earnings net of dividends declared which equaled $16.46 million for the year of 2009.

Accumulated other comprehensive income increased $7.77 million due mainly to an increase of $2.92 million in United’s pension benefit obligation, net of deferred income taxes and the amortization of pension costs of $2.10 million, net of deferred income taxes. The fair value of United’s cash flow hedge increased $1.97 million, net of deferred income taxes while the fair value of United’s available for sale investment portfolio increased $200 thousand, net of deferred income taxes.

EARNINGS SUMMARY

Net income for the year 2009 was $67.30 million or $1.55 per diluted share compared to $86.95 million or $2.00 per diluted share for the year of 2008. These results for the year of 2009 included noncash before-tax other-than-temporary impairment charges of $15.02 million on certain investment securities, a credit loss provision of $17.55 million for three loans with fraudulent collateral made to three affiliated companies of a commercial customer and an additional expense of $3.63 million for a special FDIC assessment. Results for the year of 2009 also included an income tax benefit of $11.51 million associated with net operating loss carryforwards and a positive adjustment to income tax expense as a result of a concluded tax examination as well as an additional positive tax adjustment of $568 thousand due to the expiration of the statute of limitations for examinations of certain years.

Results for the year of 2008 included noncash before-tax other-than-temporary impairment charges of $10.49 million on certain investment securities. Also included in the results for the year of 2008 was a positive tax adjustment of $1.42 million due to the expiration of the statute of limitations for examinations of certain years and a $917 thousand before-tax gain related to Visa’s initial public offering and the partial redemption of Visa shares held by United.

United’s return on average assets for the year of 2009 was 0.85% and return on average shareholders’ equity was 8.81% as compared to 1.09% and 11.12% for the year of 2008. United’s most recently reported Federal Reserve peer group banking companies’ (bank holding companies with total assets between $3 and $10 billion) average return on assets was -0.21% and average return on equity was -2.59% for the first nine months of 2009.

Net interest income for the year of 2009 was $245.47 million, a decrease of $7.32 million or 2.90% from the prior year. The provision for credit losses was $46.07 million for the year 2009 as compared to $25.16 million for the year of 2008.

Noninterest income was $53.97 million for the year of 2009, down $13.33 million or 19.81% when compared to the year of 2008. Included in noninterest income for the year of 2009 and 2008 were the previously mentioned noncash before-tax other-than-temporary impairment charges of $15.02 million and $10.49 million, respectively. Noninterest expense was $175.13 million, an increase of $4.05 million or 2.37% for the year of 2009 when compared to 2008.

Income tax expense for the year of 2009 was $10.95 million as compared to $36.91 million for the year of 2008. During the third quarter of 2009, United reduced its income tax reserve by $568 thousand due to the expiration of the statue of limitations for examinations of certain years as compared to $1.42 million in the third quarter of 2008. During the first quarter of 2009, United recorded a benefit associated with net operating loss carryforwards and a positive adjustment to income tax expense as a result of a concluded tax examination. The total income tax benefit recorded in the first quarter of 2009 related to these two events was $11.51 million. As a result of these tax adjustments, United’s effective tax rate was approximately 14.0% and 29.8% for years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively, as compared to 30.2% for 2007.

The following discussion explains in more detail the results of operations by major category.

 

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Net Interest Income

Net interest income represents the primary component of United’s earnings. It is the difference between interest income from earning assets and interest expense incurred to fund these assets. Net interest income is impacted by changes in the volume and mix of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, as well as changes in market interest rates. Such changes, and their impact on net interest income in 2009 and 2008, are presented below.

Net interest income for the year of 2009 was $245.47 million, a decrease of $7.32 million or 2.90% from the year of 2008. The $7.32 million decrease in net interest income occurred because total interest income declined $64.07 million while total interest expense only declined $56.75 million from the year of 2008. For the purpose of this remaining discussion, net interest income is presented on a tax-equivalent basis to provide a comparison among all types of interest earning assets. The tax-equivalent basis adjusts for the tax-favored status of income from certain loans and investments. Although this is a non-GAAP measure, United’s management believes this measure is more widely used within the financial services industry and provides better comparability of net interest income arising from taxable and tax-exempt sources. United uses this measure to monitor net interest income performance and to manage its balance sheet composition.

Tax-equivalent net interest income for the year of 2009 was $256.67 million, a decrease of $10.35 million or 3.88% from the year of 2008. The net interest margin for the year of 2008 was 3.59%, down 11 basis points from a net interest margin of 3.70% during the same period last year.

Tax-equivalent interest income for the year of 2009 was $377.04 million, a $67.10 million or 15.11% decrease from the year of 2008. This decrease in tax-equivalent interest income was primarily attributable to a decrease of 88 basis points in the yield on average earning assets due to a decrease in market interest rates. The average yield on net loans was 5.46% for the year of 2009, down 88 basis points from 6.34% for the year of 2008 while the average yield on investment securities was 5.08% for the year of 2009, a decrease of 38 basis points from 5.46% for the year of 2008. In addition, average earning assets were relatively flat from the year of 2008, declining $67.57 million or less than 1% as average investment securities decreased $219.78 million or 15.95%. Average net loans were virtually flat from the year of 2008, increasing $14.64 million or less than 1%.

Interest expense for the year of 2009 was $120.37 million, a decrease of $56.75 million or 32.04% from the year of 2008. The decrease in interest expense for the year of 2009 was mainly due to a decrease of 83 basis points in the cost of funds from the year of 2008 as a result of lower market interest rates during 2009. The average cost of interest-bearing deposits was 1.75% for the year of 2009, down 96 basis points from 2.71% for the year of 2008 while the average cost of short-term borrowings was 0.14% for the year of 2009, a decrease of 155 basis points from 1.69% for the year of 2008. The average cost of long-term borrowings was 4.24% for the year of 2009, a decrease of 25 basis points from 4.49% for the year of 2008 as a result of a decrease in market interest rates and the prepayment of higher-rate FHLB advances in 2008. Average interest-bearing deposits increased $206.54 million or 4.52% while average short-term borrowings decreased $428.58 million or 48.95%. Average long-term borrowings were relatively flat from the year of 2008, increasing $1.98 million or less than 1%.

The following table reconciles the difference between net interest income and tax-equivalent net interest income for the year ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007.

 

     Year Ended
(Dollars in thousands)    December 31
2009
   December 31
2008
   December 31
2007

Net interest income, GAAP basis

   $ 245,471    $ 252,792    $ 225,419

Tax-equivalent adjustment (1)

     11,199      14,229      16,472
                    

Tax-equivalent net interest income

   $ 256,670    $ 267,021    $ 241,891
                    

 

(1) The tax-equivalent adjustment combines amounts of interest income on federally nontaxable loans and investment securities using the statutory federal income tax rate of 35% and interest income on state nontaxable loans and investment securities using the statutory state income tax rate of 8.75% for 2009 and 2008 and 9% for 2007.

 

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The following table shows the consolidated daily average balance of major categories of assets and liabilities for each of the three years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 with the consolidated interest and rate earned or paid on such amount. The interest income and yields on federally nontaxable loans and investment securities are presented on a tax-equivalent basis using the statutory federal income tax rate of 35%. The interest income and yield on state nontaxable loans and investment securities are presented on a tax-equivalent basis using the statutory state income tax rate of 8.75%in 2009 and 2008 and 9% in 2007.

 

     Year Ended
December 31, 2009
    Year Ended
December 31, 2008
    Year Ended
December 31, 2007
 
(Dollars in thousands)    Average
Balance
    Interest    Avg.
Rate
    Average
Balance
    Interest    Avg.
Rate
    Average
Balance
    Interest    Avg.
Rate
 

ASSETS

                     

Earning Assets:

                     

Federal funds sold, securities repurchased under agreements to resell & other short-term investments

   $ 174,319      $ 309    0.18   $ 36,752      $ 714    1.94   $ 48,754      $ 2,504    5.14

Investment Securities:

                     

Taxable

     989,176        46,834    4.73     1,168,192        59,652    5.11     1,059,530        55,054    5.20

Tax-exempt (1) (2)

     168,623        12,020    7.13     209,386        15,503    7.40     222,564        17,989    8.08
                                                               

Total Securities

     1,157,799        58,854    5.08     1,377,578        75,155    5.46     1,282,094        73,043    5.70

Loans, net of unearned Income (1) (2) (3)

     5,888,900        317,881    5.40     5,865,609        368,271    6.28     5,151,252        379,654    7.37

Allowance for loan losses

     (64,128          (55,476          (46,766     
                                       

Net loans

     5,824,772         5.46     5,810,133         6.34     5,104,486         7.44
                                                               

Total earning assets

     7,156,890      $ 377,044    5.27     7,224,463      $ 444,140    6.15     6,435,334      $ 455,201    7.07
                                 

Other assets

     768,616             782,605             665,551        
                                       

TOTAL ASSETS

   $ 7,925,506           $ 8,007,068           $ 7,100,885        
                                       

LIABILITIES

                     

Interest-Bearing Funds:

                     

Interest-bearing deposits

   $ 4,776,120      $ 83,463    1.75   $ 4,569,583      $ 124,035    2.71   $ 4,145,925      $ 146,918    3.54

Short-term borrowings

     446,963        645    0.14     875,545        14,828    1.69     713,886        30,745    4.31

Long- term borrowings

     854,438        36,266    4.24     852,457        38,256    4.49     635,476        35,647    5.61
                                                               

Total Interest-Bearing Funds

     6,077,521        120,374    1.98     6,297,585        177,119    2.81     5,495,287        213,310    3.88
                                 

Noninterest-bearing deposits

     1,022,051             867,447             840,660        

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

     61,948             60,173             67,053        
                                       

TOTAL LIABILITIES

     7,161,520             7,225,205             6,403,000        

SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

     763,986             781,863             697,885        
                                       

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

   $ 7,925,506           $ 8,007,068           $ 7,100,885        
                                       

NET INTEREST INCOME

     $ 256,670        $ 267,021        $ 241,891   
                                 

INTEREST SPREAD

        3.29        3.34        3.19

NET INTEREST MARGIN

        3.59        3.70        3.76

 

(1) The interest income and the yields on federally nontaxable loans and investment securities are presented on a tax-equivalent basis using the statutory federal income tax rate of 35%.
(2) The interest income and the yields on state nontaxable loans and investment securities are presented on a tax-equivalent basis using the statutory state income tax rate of 8.75% in 2009 and 2008 and 9% in 2007.
(3) Nonaccruing loans are included in the daily average loan amounts outstanding.

 

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The following table sets forth a summary for the periods indicated of the changes in consolidated interest earned and interest paid detailing the amounts attributable to (i) changes in volume (change in the average volume times the prior year’s average rate), (ii) changes in rate (change in the average rate times the prior year’s average volume), and (iii) changes in rate/volume (change in the average volume times the change in average rate).

 

     2009 Compared to 2008     2008 Compared to 2007  
     Increase (Decrease) Due to     Increase (Decrease) Due to  

(In thousands)

               Rate/                       Rate/        
   Volume     Rate     Volume     Total     Volume     Rate     Volume     Total  

Interest income:

                

Federal funds sold, securities purchased under agreements to resell and other short-term investments

   $ 2,669      $ (647   $ (2,427   $ (405   $ (617   $ (1,560   $ 387      $ (1,790

Investment securities:

                

Taxable

     (9,148     (4,439     769        (12,818     5,650        (954     (98     4,598   

Tax exempt (1), (2)

     (3,016     (565     98        (3,483     (1,065     (1,513     92        (2,486

Loans (1),(2),(3)

     928        (51,129     (189     (50,390     52,500        (56,149     (7,734     (11,383
                                                                

TOTAL INTEREST INCOME

     (8,567     (56,780     (1,749     (67,096     56,468        (60,176     (7,353     (11,061
                                                                

Interest expense:

                

Interest-bearing deposits

   $ 5,597      $ (43,868   $ (2,301   $ (40,572   $ 14,997      $ (34,411   $ (3,469   $ (22,883

Short-term borrowings

     (7,243     (13,571     6,631        (14,183     6,968        (18,704     (4,181     (15,917

Long-term borrowings

     89        (2,131     52        (1,990     12,173        (7,117     (2,447     2,609   
                                                                

TOTAL INTEREST EXPENSE

     (1,557     (59,570     4,382        (56,745     34,138        (60,232     (10,097     (36,191
                                                                

NET INTEREST INCOME

   $ (7,010   $ 2,790      $ (6,131   $ (10,351   $ 22,330      $ 56      $ 2,744      $ 25,130   
                                                                

 

(1) Yields and interest income on federally tax exempt loans and investment securities are computed on a fully tax-equivalent basis using the statutory federal income tax rate of 35%.
(2) Yields and interest income on state tax exempt loans and investment securities are computed on a fully tax-equivalent basis using the statutory state income tax rate of 8.75% in 2009 and 2008 and 9% in 2007.
(3) Nonaccruing loans are included in the daily average loan amounts outstanding.

Provision for Credit Losses

At December 31, 2009, nonperforming loans were $72.26 million or 1.26% of loans, net of unearned income compared to nonperforming loans of $54.20 million or 0.90% of loans, net of unearned income at December 31, 2008. The increase in nonperforming loans since year-end 2008 is indicative of the decline in economic conditions during 2009. These nonperforming loans are not of one particular portfolio, but rather represent several customer segments. Higher unemployment levels, economic fears, and declines in real estate values have impacted the performance of both consumer and commercial portfolios. The components of nonperforming loans include: 1) nonaccrual loans, 2) loans which are contractually past due 90 days or more as to interest or principal, but have not been put on a nonaccrual basis and 3) loans whose terms have been restructured for economic or legal reasons due to financial difficulties of the borrowers.

Loans past due 90 days or more were $20.31 million at December 31, 2009, an increase of $8.43 million or 70.98% from $11.88 million at year-end 2008. At year-end 2009, nonaccrual loans were $50.86 million, an increase of $8.54 million or 20.18% from $42.32 million at year-end 2008. Restructured loans were $1.09 million at year-end 2009 as compared to no restructured loans at year-end 2008. The increase in loans past due 90 days or more, nonaccrual loans and restructured loans since year-end 2008 was primarily the result of the deterioration in economic conditions during 2009. The loss potential on

 

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these loans has been properly evaluated and allocated within the company’s allowance for loan losses.

Nonperforming assets include nonperforming loans and real estate acquired in foreclosure or other settlement of loans (OREO). Total nonperforming assets of $112.32 million, including OREO of $40.06 million at December 31, 2009, represented 1.44% of total assets which compares favorably to United’s most recently reported Federal Reserve peer group banking companies’ (bank holding companies with total assets between $3 and $10 billion) percentage of 3.30% at September 30, 2009.

Management is not aware of any other significant loans or securities, groups of loans or securities, or segments of the loan or investment portfolio not included below or disclosed elsewhere herein where there are serious doubts as to the ability of the borrowers or issuers to comply with the present repayment terms of the debt. The following table summarizes nonperforming assets for the indicated periods.

 

     December 31
     2009    2008    2007    2006    2005
     (In thousands)

Nonaccrual loans

   $ 50,856    $ 42,317    $ 14,115    $ 5,755    $ 7,146

Loans which are contractually past due 90 days or more as to interest or principal, and are still accruing interest

     20,314      11,881      14,210      8,432      6,039

Restructured loans

     1,087      —        —        —        —  
                                  

Total nonperforming loans

     72,257      54,198      28,325      14,187      13,185

Other real estate owned

     40,058      19,817      6,365      4,231      2,941
                                  

TOTAL NONPERFORMING ASSETS

   $ 112,315    $ 74,015    $ 34,690    $ 18,418    $ 16,126
                                  

Loans are designated as impaired when, in the opinion of management, the collection of principal and interest in accordance with the loan contract is doubtful. At December 31, 2009, impaired loans were $63.22 million, which was an increase of $3.48 million or 5.82% from the $59.74 million in impaired loans at December 31, 2008. This slight increase in impaired loans was due mainly to increased impairments associated with loans in the Company’s commercial and real estate construction and development portfolios primarily as a result of the current economic conditions. Based on current information and events, United believes it is probable that the borrowers will not be able to repay all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreements. The loss potential on these loans has been properly evaluated and allocated within the company’s allowance for loan losses. For further details on impaired loans, see Note C, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

United maintains an allowance for loan losses and an allowance for lending-related commitments. The combined allowances for loan losses and lending-related commitments are referred to as the allowance for credit losses. At December 31, 2009, the allowance for credit losses was $70.01 million as compared to $63.60 million at December 31, 2008.

At December 31, 2009, the allowance for loan losses was $67.85 million as compared to $61.49 million at December 31, 2008. As a percentage of loans, net of unearned income, the allowance for loan losses was 1.18% at December 31, 2009 and 1.02% of loans, net of unearned income at December 31, 2008. The ratio of the allowance for loan losses to nonperforming loans or coverage ratio was 93.91% and 113.46% at December 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively. The coverage ratio for United’s Federal Reserve peer group was 71.93% at September 30, 2009. For United, this ratio decreased as a result of an $18.06 million or 33.32% increase in nonperforming loans during the year of 2009. Adjustments to risk grades and qualitative risk factors within the allowance for loan loss analysis were based on delinquency and loss trends of such loans and resulted in increased allowance allocations of $7.4 million or 12.56%. However, this increase was not to the same degree as the overall increase in nonperforming loans. The Company’s detailed methodology and analysis did not indicate a corresponding increase in the allowance for loan losses primarily because of the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral of loans considered impaired.

 

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For the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, the provision for credit losses was $46.07 million and $25.16 million, respectively. Net charge-offs were $39.66 million for the year of 2009 as compared to net charge-offs of $20.30 million for the year of 2008. The increase in the provision for credit losses for the year of 2009 was due mainly to the previously mentioned provision of $17.55 million for loans with fraudulent collateral made to three affiliated companies of a commercial customer as well as a continued decline in credit quality in 2009. Net charge-offs as a percentage of average loans were 0.67% for the year of 2009 which compares favorably to United’s most recently reported Federal Reserve peer group banking companies’ net charge-offs to average loans percentage was 1.46% for the first nine months of 2009.

The following table summarizes United’s credit loss experience for each of the five years ended December 31:

 

     2009     2008     2007     2006     2005  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

Balance of allowance for credit losses at beginning of year

   $ 63,603      $ 58,744      $ 52,371      $ 52,871      $ 51,353   

Allowance of purchased company at date of acquisition

     —          —          7,648        —          —     

Loans charged off:

          

Commercial, financial and agricultural

     21,520        5,014        832        1,060        2,442   

Real estate

     10,760        7,201        900        778        1,422   

Real estate construction

     6,288        6,375        4,460        —          —     

Consumer and other

     2,509        2,608        1,546        1,390        2,152   
                                        

TOTAL CHARGE-OFFS

     41,077        21,198        7,738        3,228        6,016   

Recoveries:

          

Commercial, financial and agricultural

     518        233        297        505        677   

Real estate

     343        264        376        374        778   

Real estate construction

     89        23        10        —          —     

Consumer and other

     469        382        450        412        461   
                                        

TOTAL RECOVERIES

     1,419        902        1,133        1,291        1,916   
                                        

NET LOANS CHARGED OFF

     39,658        20,296        6,605        1,937        4,100   

Provision for credit losses

     46,065        25,155        5,330        1,437        5,618   
                                        

BALANCE OF ALLOWANCE FOR CREDIT LOSSES AT END OF YEAR

   $ 70,010      $ 63,603      $ 58,744      $ 52,371      $ 52,871   
                                        

Loans outstanding at the end of period (gross), continuing operations (1)

   $ 5,740,778      $ 6,020,558      $ 5,800,561      $ 4,813,708      $ 4,656,522   

Average loans outstanding during period (net of unearned income) (1)

   $ 5,883,995      $ 5,863,858      $ 5,149,430      $ 4,726,758      $ 4,493,322   

Net charge-offs as a percentage of average loans outstanding

     0.67     0.35     0.13     0.04     0.09

Allowance for credit losses, continuing operations as a percentage of nonperforming loans

     96.9     117.4     207.4     369.2     401.0

 

(1) Excludes loans held for sale.

United evaluates the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses and its loan administration policies are focused upon the risk characteristics of the loan portfolio. United’s process for evaluating the allowance is a formal company-wide process that focuses on early identification of potential problem credits and procedural discipline in managing and accounting for those credits. This process determines the appropriate level of the allowance for credit losses, allocation among loan types and lending-related commitments, and the resulting provision for credit losses.

 

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Allocations are made for specific commercial loans based upon management’s estimate of the borrowers’ ability to repay and other factors impacting collectibility. Other commercial loans not specifically reviewed on an individual basis are evaluated based on historical loss percentages applied to loan pools that have been segregated by risk. Allocations for loans other than commercial loans are made based upon historical loss experience adjusted for current environmental conditions. The allowance for credit losses includes estimated probable inherent but undetected losses within the portfolio due to uncertainties in economic conditions, delays in obtaining information, including unfavorable information about a borrower’s financial condition, the difficulty in identifying triggering events that correlate perfectly to subsequent loss rates, and risk factors that have not yet fully manifested themselves in loss allocation factors. In addition, a portion of the allowance accounts for the inherent imprecision in the allowance for credit losses analysis.

The following table presents the allocation of United’s allowance for credit losses for each of the five years ended December 31:

 

     2009    2008    2007    2006    2005
     (In thousands)

Commercial, financial and agricultural

   $ 43,467    $ 39,550    $ 32,957    $ 27,512    $ 27,053

Real estate

     6,971      4,144      3,058      3,266      6,443

Real estate construction

     12,184      10,169      9,169      7,178      2,587

Consumer and other

     3,545      4,920      4,166      4,014      5,842

Lending related commitments

     2,156      2,109      8,287      8,742      8,733

Allowance for estimated imprecision

     1,687      2,711      1,107      1,659      2,213
                                  

Total

   $ 70,010    $ 63,603    $ 58,744    $ 52,371    $ 52,871
                                  

The following is a summary of loans outstanding as a percent of total loans at December 31:

 

     2009     2008     2007     2006     2005  

Commercial, financial and agricultural

   19.32   21.20   20.89   19.85   20.10

Real estate mortgage

   65.45   63.31   62.65   62.14   64.40

Real estate construction

   9.75   10.01   10.38   10.88   7.47

Consumer

   5.48   5.48   6.08   7.13   8.03
                              

Total

   100.00   100.00   100.00   100.00   100.00
                              

United’s formal company-wide review of the allowance for loan losses at December 31, 2009 produced increased allocations in three of the four loan categories. The components of the allowance allocated to commercial loans increased by $3.9 million due to the impact of downward risk grade migration, increasing delinquency and loss trends that resulted in higher loss rates being applied to loan pool subsets within the portfolio. Real estate loan pool allocations increased $2.8 million also as a result of increases in historical loss rates and to recognize the loss inherent with respect to declining market values and its effect upon residential exposure in selected markets within United’s Washington, D.C. metropolitan area / Shenandoah Valley footprint. The real estate construction loan pool allocations increased $2.0 million in comparison with the December 31, 2008 year-end primarily due to increased historical loss rates and a $1.0 million increase in specific allocations for impaired loans offset somewhat by lower outstanding loan balances. The components of the allowance allocated to consumer loans decreased by $1.4 million due to the refinement of the methodology related to the allocation for overdraft losses as the credit quality of the consumer loan portfolio has remained consistent with the prior year. The allowance for lending-related commitments at December 31, 2009 was relatively flat from December 31, 2008, increasing by only $48 thousand.

An allowance is established for probable credit losses on impaired loans via specific allocations. Nonperforming commercial loans and leases are regularly reviewed to identify impairment. A loan or lease is impaired when, based on current

 

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information and events, it is probable that the Company will not be able to collect all amounts contractually due. Measuring impairment of a loan requires judgment and estimates, and the eventual outcomes may differ from those estimates. Impairment is measured based upon the present value of expected future cash flows from the loan discounted at the loan’s effective rate, the loan’s observable market price or the fair value of collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. When the selected measure is less than the recorded investment in the loan, an impairment has occurred. The allowance for impaired loans was $6.9 million at December 31, 2009 and $5.4 million at December 31, 2008. Compared to the prior year-end, this element of the allowance increased by $1.5 million primarily due to increased real estate construction and development loan pool specific allocations.

An allowance is also recognized for imprecision inherent in loan loss migration models and other estimates of loss. There are many factors affecting the allowance for loan losses and allowance for lending-related commitments; some are quantitative while others require qualitative judgment. Although management believes its methodology for determining the allowance adequately considers all of the potential factors to identify and quantify probable losses in the portfolio, the process includes subjective elements and is therefore susceptible to change. This estimate for imprecision has been established to recognize the variance, within a reasonable margin, of the loss estimation process. The estimate for imprecision decreased at December 31, 2009 by $1.0 million to $1.7 million. This represents 2.4% of the Company’s total allowance for credit losses and in as much as this variance approximates a pre-determined narrow parameter, the methodology has confirmed that the Company’s allowance for credit losses is at an appropriate level.

Management believes that the allowance for credit losses of $70.01 million at December 31, 2009 is adequate to provide for probable losses on existing loans and lending-related commitments based on information currently available.

United’s loan administration policies are focused on the risk characteristics of the loan portfolio in terms of loan approval and credit quality. The commercial loan portfolio is monitored for possible concentrations of credit in one or more industries. Management has lending limits as a percentage of capital per type of credit concentration in an effort to ensure adequate diversification within the portfolio. Most of United’s commercial loans are secured by real estate located in West Virginia, southeastern Ohio, Virginia and Maryland and the District of Columbia. It is the opinion of management that these commercial loans do not pose any unusual risks and that adequate consideration has been given to these loans in establishing the allowance for credit losses.

Management is not aware of any potential problem loans, trends or uncertainties, which it reasonably expects, will materially impact future operating results, liquidity, or capital resources which have not been disclosed. Additionally, management has disclosed all known material credits, which cause management to have serious doubts as to the ability of such borrowers to comply with the loan repayment schedules.

Other Income

Other income consists of all revenues, which are not included in interest and fee income related to earning assets. Noninterest income has been and will continue to be an important factor for improving United’s profitability. Recognizing the importance, management continues to evaluate areas where noninterest income can be enhanced.

Noninterest income was $53.97 million for the year of 2009, down $13.33 million or 19.81% from the year of 2008. Included in noninterest income for the year of 2009 were noncash, before-tax, other-than-temporary impairment charges of $15.02 million on investment securities including an $8.00 million on a single-issue trust preferred security, $5.37 million on a certain TRUP CDO and $782 thousand on one security carried at cost. Noninterest income for the year of 2008 was $67.30 million which included noncash, before-tax other-than-temporary impairment charges on investment securities totaling $10.49 million and a $917 thousand gain related to Visa’s initial public offering and the partial redemption of Visa shares held by United. The noncash, before-tax, other-than-temporary impairment charges of $10.49 million consisted mainly of charges of $9.00 million on a corporate debt holding and $889 thousand on certain marketable equity securities that had been in an unrealized loss position for more than six months. Excluding the results of the investment security transactions, noninterest income for the year of 2009 would have decreased $8.05 million or 10.49% from the year of 2008.

Revenue from trust income and brokerage commissions decreased $3.52 million or 21.21% due to a decrease in the value of the trust assets under management. United continues its efforts to broaden the scope and activity of its trust and brokerage

 

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service areas, especially in the northern Virginia market, to provide additional sources of fee income that complement United’s traditional banking products and services. The northern Virginia market provides a relatively large number of potential customers with high per capita incomes.

Fees from deposit services were $40.29 million for the year of 2009, an increase of $1.10 million or 2.81% as compared to the year of 2008 due mainly to the High Performance Checking Program. In particular, check card fees increased $544 thousand, insufficient funds (NSF) fees increased $417 thousand and account analysis fees increased $154 thousand during the year of 2009.

For the year 2009, income from bank owned life insurance policies decreased $677 thousand or 16.54% due mainly to a decrease in cash surrender values while fees from bankcard transactions decreased $1.66 million or 28.55% compared to the year of 2008 due to a lower volume of spending by consumers as a result of the current economic conditions. Mortgage banking income increased $223 thousand or 57.92% due to increased mortgage loan sales in the secondary market during the year of 2009 as compared to 2008. Mortgage loan sales were $69.67 million in 2009 as compared to $31.15 million in 2008.

Other income decreased $3.49 million or 39.99% for the year of 2009 as compared to last year’s income. This decrease in other income is due mainly to a decrease of $3.54 million in the fair value of certain derivative financial instruments not in a hedging relationship with a similar amount of expense related to a decline in the fair value of derivative financial instruments included in other expense.

Other Expense

Just as management continues to evaluate areas where noninterest income can be enhanced, it strives to improve the efficiency of its operations to reduce costs. Other expense includes all items of expense other than interest expense, the provision for credit losses and income tax expense. Noninterest expense for the year of 2009 was $175.13 million, an increase of $4.05 million or 2.37% from the year of 2008.

Employee compensation for the year of 2009 decreased $2.45 million or 3.99% from the year of 2008 due largely to less commissions and incentives expense. Also included in employee compensation was expense for stock options of $484 thousand for the year of 2009 as compared to $547 thousand for the year of 2008.

Employee benefits expense increased $5.51 million or 40.29%. Specifically within employee benefits expense was an increase in pension expense of $6.22 million due to a decline in the fair value of the plan assets. United uses certain valuation methodologies to measure the fair value of the plan assets which are presented in Note K, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. The funded status of United’s pension plan is based upon the fair value of the plan assets compared to the projected benefit obligation. The determination of the projected benefit obligation and the associated periodic benefit expense involves significant judgment and estimation of future employee compensation levels, the discount rate and the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets. If United assumes a 1% increase or decrease in the estimation of future employee compensation levels while keeping all other assumptions constant, the benefit cost associated with the pension plan would increase and decrease by approximately $580 thousand and $520 thousand, respectively. If United assumes a 1% increase or decrease in the discount rate while keeping all other assumptions constant, the benefit cost associated with the pension plan would decrease and increase by approximately $1.25 million and $1.43 million, respectively. If United assumes a 1% increase or decrease in the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets while keeping all other assumptions constant, the benefit cost associated with the pension plan would decrease and increase by approximately $666 thousand.

Net occupancy expense increased $336 thousand or 2.01% for the year of 2009 as compared to the year of 2008. The higher net occupancy expense for 2009 was due mainly to additional building rental expense and real property taxes. Equipment expense, including other real estate owned (OREO) costs, increased $2.77 million or 31.07% for the year of 2009 as compared to the year of 2008. The increase from 2008 was due mainly to an increase in losses from sales and deterioration in property values associated with OREO.

Data processing expense increased $864 thousand or 8.63% for the year of 2009 as compared to the year of 2008. Bankcard processing fees decreased $1.62 million or 33.68% due to decreased transactions as a result of less consumer spending for the year of 2009 as compared to last year.

 

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FDIC insurance expense increased $8.03 million or 700.09% for the year of 2009 as compared to the year of 2008. The increase was due mainly to the additional expense of $3.63 million in the second quarter of 2009 for a special assessment by the FDIC as well as higher premiums to increase the insurance fund for banks.

Other expenses decreased $9.39 million or 17.24% for the year of 2009 as compared to the year of 2008 due mainly to a decrease of $3.54 million in the fair value of certain derivative financial instruments not in a hedging relationship with a similar amount of income related to a decline in the fair value of derivative financial instruments included in other income. In addition, several general operating expenses declined for the year of 2009 as compared to the previous year. In particular, advertising expense decreased $1.94 million, telephone expense decreased $1.17 million and core deposit intangibles amortization decreased $933 thousand.

United’s efficiency ratio was 51.35% for the year of 2009 which was comparable to 48.03% for the year of 2008.

Income Taxes

For the year ended December 31, 2009, income taxes were $10.95 million, compared to $36.91 million for 2008. During the third quarter of 2009, United reduced its income tax reserve for uncertainties by $568 thousand as compared to a 2008 reduction of $1.42 million due to the expiration of the statute of limitations for examination of certain years. During the first quarter of 2009, United recorded a benefit associated with the reversal of an allowance for net operating loss carryforwards and a positive adjustment to income tax expense as a result of a concluded tax examination. The total income tax benefit recorded in the first quarter of 2009 related to these two events was $11.51 million. As a result of these tax adjustments, United’s effective tax rate was 14.0% and 29.8% for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. For further details related to income taxes, see Note J, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

As of January 1, 2009, the State of West Virginia changed its method of taxation to a unitary combined reporting of income for corporations taxable in West Virginia. A unitary business is defined as a commonly controlled group of businesses. Combined reporting is a tax reporting method where all of the members of a unitary group are required to determine their net income based on the activities of the unitary group as a whole. The resulting impact to United will be an increase in state income tax expense of approximately 1% to 2% in the effective tax rate.

Quarterly Results

The first quarter of 2009 saw increased diluted earnings per share in comparison to the same quarter in 2008. Net income for the first quarter of 2009 was $29.63 million or $0.68 per diluted share basis compared to $25.70 million or $0.59 per diluted share in 2008. For the second quarter of 2009, net income was $8.16 million or $0.19 per diluted share compared to $25.15 million or $0.58 per diluted share in 2008. Results for the second quarter of 2009 included a credit loss provision of $17.55 million for three loans with fraudulent collateral made to three affiliated companies of a commercial customer, an additional expense accrual of $3.63 million for a special FDIC assessment, and an other-than-temporary impairment charge of $782 thousand on a specific investment security carried at cost. In the third quarter of 2009, earnings were $12.07 million or $0.28 per diluted share as compared to $19.59 million or $0.45 per diluted share in the third quarter of 2008. The results for the third quarter of 2009 included noncash, before-tax, other-than-temporary impairment charges of $10.96 million on investment securities including $8.00 million on a single-issue trust preferred security and $2.81 million on a certain TRUP CDO. Third quarter of 2009 results also included a positive tax adjustment of $568 thousand which was due to the expiration of the statute of limitations for examinations of certain years.

Fourth quarter of 2009 net income was $17.44 million or $0.40 per diluted share, an increase from net income of $16.52 million or $0.38 per diluted share in the fourth quarter of 2008. Results for the fourth quarter of 2009 included noncash, before-tax, other-than-temporary impairment charges of $2.83 million on certain investment securities. Results for the fourth quarter of 2008 included a noncash, before-tax other-than-temporary impairment charges of $1.18 million on certain investment securities.

Tax-equivalent net interest income for the fourth quarter of 2009 was $63.65 million, a decrease of $2.75 million or 4.14%

 

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from the fourth quarter of 2008. This decrease in tax-equivalent net interest income was primarily attributable to a decline in average earning assets of $153.47 million or 2.11% for the fourth quarter of 2009. Average net loans declined $189.88 million or 3.22% for the fourth quarter of 2009 while average investments decreased $289.63 million or 21.42% due mainly to an increase in maturities and calls of securities from the fourth quarter of 2008. Average short-term investments did increase $326.04 million as a result of United placing its excess cash in an interest-bearing account with the Federal Reserve. In addition, the average yield on earning assets declined 76 basis points for the fourth quarter of 2009 as compared to the same quarter in 2008. Partially offsetting these decreases to tax-equivalent net interest income was a decrease of 72 basis points in the fourth quarter of 2009 average cost of funds. The net interest margin for the fourth quarter of 2009 was 3.55%, down 8 basis points from a net interest margin of 3.63% for the fourth quarter of 2008.

For the quarters ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, the provision for credit losses was $6.72 million and $12.21 million, respectively. The decrease in the provision for credit losses from the fourth quarter of 2008 was a result of an increase in the December 31, 2008 allowance for loan losses to account for further credit deterioration in the fourth quarter of 2008. Net charge-offs were $6.45 million for the fourth quarter of 2009 as compared to $7.99 million for the fourth quarter of 2008.

Noninterest income for the fourth quarter of 2009 was $14.21 million, a decrease of $4.97 million from the fourth quarter of 2008. Included in noninterest income for the fourth quarter of 2009 and 2008 were the noncash, before-tax, other-than-temporary impairment charges of $2.83 million and $1.18 million, respectively, on certain investment securities. Excluding the results of the noncash, before-tax, other-than-temporary impairment charges as well as net gains and losses from sales and calls of investment securities, noninterest income would have decreased $3.53 million or 17.36%. This decrease for the fourth quarter of 2009 was due primarily to a decrease in income from derivatives not in hedge relationships of $4.37 million due to a change in fair value. A similar amount of expense related to the change in the fair value of these derivative financial instruments is included in other expense in the income statement. In addition, revenue from trust and brokerage services decreased $745 thousand due mainly to a decrease in the value of the trust assets under management. Partially offsetting these declines were increases of $977 thousand and $312 thousand, respectively, in income from bank-owned life insurance policies due to an increase in the cash surrender values and fees from deposit services due mainly to the High Performance Checking program.

Noninterest expense for the fourth quarter of 2009 was $43.94 million, a decrease of $2.66 million or 5.71% from the fourth quarter of 2008 due primarily to the decrease of $4.37 million in expense from derivatives not in hedge relationships due to a change in fair value. In addition, employee compensation declined $749 thousand due to less commissions and incentives expense. Partially offsetting these decreases was an increase of $1.68 million in employee benefits due to a $1.86 million increase in expense associated with United’s employee pension plan. Also, equipment expense, including other real estate owned (OREO) costs, increased $703 thousand due mainly to increased losses from sales and declines in fair values of OREO properties while data processing expense increased $482 thousand.

Additional quarterly financial data for 2009 and 2008 may be found in Note T, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

The Effect of Inflation

United’s income statements generally reflect the effects of inflation. Since interest rates, loan demand and deposit levels are impacted by inflation, the resulting changes in the interest-sensitive assets and liabilities are included in net interest income. Similarly, operating expenses such as salaries, rents and maintenance include changing prices resulting from inflation. One item that would not reflect inflationary changes is depreciation expense. Subsequent to the acquisition of depreciable assets, inflation causes price levels to rise; therefore, historically presented dollar values do not reflect this inflationary condition. With inflation levels at relatively low levels and monetary and fiscal policies being implemented to keep the inflation rate increases within an acceptable range, management expects the impact of inflation would continue to be minimal in the near future.

The Effect of Regulatory Policies and Economic Conditions

United’s business and earnings are affected by the monetary and fiscal policies of the United States government, its agencies and various other governmental regulatory authorities. The Federal Reserve Board regulates the supply of money in order to

 

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influence general economic conditions. Among the instruments of monetary policy available to the Federal Reserve Board are (i) conducting open market operations in United States government obligations, (ii) changing the discount rate on financial institution borrowings, (iii) imposing or changing reserve requirements against financial institution deposits, and (iv) restricting certain borrowings and imposing or changing reserve requirements against certain borrowings by financial institutions and their affiliates. These methods are used in varying degrees and combinations to affect directly the availability of bank loans and deposits, as well as the interest rates charged on loans and paid on deposits.

United’s business and earnings are also affected by general and local economic conditions. For most of 2009 and 2008, certain credit markets experienced difficult conditions and volatility. Downturns in the credit market can cause a decline in the value of certain loans and securities, a reduction in liquidity and a tightening of credit. A downturn in the credit market often signals a weakening economy that can cause job losses and thus distress on borrowers and their ability to repay loans. Uncertainties in credit markets and the economy present significant challenges for the financial services industry.

Regulatory policies and economic conditions have had a significant effect on the operating results of financial institutions in the past and are expected to continue to do so in the future; however, United cannot accurately predict the nature, timing or extent of any effect such policies or economic conditions may have on its future business and earnings.

Contractual Obligations, Commitments, Contingent Liabilities and Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

United has various financial obligations, including contractual obligations and commitments, that may require future cash payments. The table below presents, by payment date, significant known contractual obligations to third parties as of December 31, 2009:

 

          Total Payments Due by Period
(In thousands)    Total    One Year
or Less
   One to
Three Years
   Three to
Five Years
   Over Five
Years
              

Deposits without a stated maturity (1)

   $ 3,235,966    $ 3,235,966      —        —        —  

Time deposits (2) (3)

     2,803,866      2,095,716    $ 519,099    $ 178,186    $ 10,865

Short-term borrowings (2)

     222,944      222,944      —        —        —  

Long-term borrowings (2) (3)

     1,057,394      407,294      145,716      81,378      423,006

Operating leases

     33,979      7,729      12,756      7,762      5,732

 

(1) Excludes interest.
(2) Includes interest on both fixed and variable rate obligations. The interest associated with variable rate obligations is based upon interest rates in effect at December 31, 2009. The interest to be paid on variable rate obligations is affected by changes in market interest rates, which materially affect the contractual obligation amounts to be paid.
(3) Excludes carrying value adjustments such as unamortized premiums or discounts.

As of December 31, 2009, United recorded a liability for uncertain tax positions, including interest and penalties, of $1.1 million. This liability represents an estimate of tax positions that United has taken in its tax returns which may ultimately not be sustained upon examination by tax authorities. Since the ultimate amount and timing of any future cash settlements cannot be predicted with reasonable certainty, this estimated liability is excluded from the contractual obligations table.

United also enters into derivative contracts, mainly to protect against adverse interest rate movements on the value of certain assets or liabilities, under which it is required to either pay cash to or receive cash from counterparties depending on changes in interest rates. Derivative contracts are carried at fair value and not notional value on the consolidated balance sheet. Because the derivative contracts recorded on the balance sheet at December 31, 2009 do not represent the amounts that may ultimately be paid under these contracts, they are excluded from the preceding table. Further discussion of derivative instruments is included in Note N, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

United is a party to financial instruments with off-balance-sheet risk in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of its customers. These financial instruments include loan commitments and standby letters of credit. United’s maximum exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the counterparty to the financial instrument for the loan

 

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commitments and standby letters of credit is the contractual or notional amount of those instruments. United uses the same policies in making commitments and conditional obligations as it does for on-balance sheet instruments. Since many of the commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements.

The following tables detail the amounts of significant commitments and letters of credit as of December 31, 2009:

 

(In thousands)    Amount

Commitments to extend credit:

  

Revolving open-end secured by 1-4 residential

   $ 504,976

Credit card and personal revolving lines

     133,084

Commercial

     1,088,281
      

Total unused commitments

   $ 1,726,341
      

Financial standby letters of credit

   $ 68,194

Performance standby letters of credit

     49,535

Commercial letters of credit

     2,121
      

Total letters of credit

   $ 119,850
      

Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses, generally within one year, and may require the payment of a fee. Further discussion of commitments is included in Note M, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Liquidity

In the opinion of management, United maintains liquidity that is sufficient to satisfy its depositors’ requirements and the credit needs of its customers. Like all banks, United depends upon its ability to renew maturing deposits and other liabilities on a daily basis and to acquire new funds in a variety of markets. A significant source of funds available to United is “core deposits.” Core deposits include certain demand deposits, statement and special savings and NOW accounts. These deposits are relatively stable and they are the lowest cost source of funds available to United. Short-term borrowings have also been a significant source of funds. These include federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase as well as advances from the FHLB. Repurchase agreements represent funds that are obtained as the result of a competitive bidding process.

Liquid assets are cash and those items readily convertible to cash. All banks must maintain sufficient balances of cash and near-cash items to meet the day-to-day demands of customers and United’s cash needs. Other than cash and due from banks, the available for sale securities portfolio and maturing loans are the primary sources of liquidity.

The goal of liquidity management is to ensure the ability to access funding that enables United to efficiently satisfy the cash flow requirements of depositors and borrowers and meet United’s cash needs. Liquidity is managed by monitoring funds availability from a number of primary sources. Substantial funding is available from cash and cash equivalents, unused short-term borrowings, and a geographically dispersed network of branches providing access to a diversified and substantial retail deposit market.

Short-term needs can be met through a wide array of outside sources such as correspondent and downstream correspondent federal funds and utilization of Federal Home Loan Bank advances.

Other sources of liquidity available to United to provide long-term as well as short-term funding alternatives, in addition to FHLB advances, are long-term certificates of deposit, lines of credit, borrowings that are secured by bank premises or stock of United’s subsidiaries and issuances of trust preferred securities. In the normal course of business, United through its Asset Liability Committee evaluates these as well as other alternative funding strategies that may be utilized to meet short-term and long-term funding needs. See Notes H and I, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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Cash flows provided by operations in 2009 were $53.66 million which was significantly less than the $113.94 million of cash provided by operations during 2008 due in large part to a $19.66 million decline in net income and the $11 million contribution to United’s pension plan. In 2009, net cash of $545.16 million was provided in investing activities primarily due to net cash received of $310.98 million for excess net proceeds from sales, calls and maturities of investment securities over purchases and the net repayment of $239.31 million in portfolio loans. Net cash of $203.54 million was used by investing activities in 2008 due to loan growth of $233.40 million. For the year of 2009, net cash of $362.59 million was used in financing activities due primarily to the repayment of securities sold under agreements to repurchase and overnight FHLB borrowings in the amount of $222.77 million and $212 million, respectively, during the year of 2009. Other uses of cash for financing activities included the repayment of federal funds purchased of $120.35 million and the payment of $50.38 million for cash dividends. For the year of 2008, net cash of $72.49 million was provided by financing activities due primarily to growth of $298.60 million in deposits and net advances of $89.27 million in long-term FHLB borrowings. Uses of cash for financing activities included the repayment of $222.00 million in short-term borrowings, the payment of $50.18 million for cash dividends and the redemption of a trust preferred issuance in the amount of $10.31 million. The net effect of the cash flow activities was an increase in cash and cash equivalents of $236.23 million for the year of 2009 as compared to a decrease in cash and cash equivalents of $17.12 million for the year of 2008. See the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows in the Consolidated Financial Statements.

United anticipates it can meet its obligations over the next 12 months and has no material commitments for capital expenditures. There are no known trends, demands, commitments, or events that will result in or that are reasonably likely to result in United’s liquidity increasing or decreasing in any material way. United also has lines of credit available. See Notes H and I, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for more detail regarding the amounts available to United under its lines of credit.

The Asset Liability Committee monitors liquidity to ascertain that a liquidity position within certain prescribed parameters is maintained. No changes are anticipated in the policies of United’s Asset and Liability Committee.

Capital Resources

United’s capital position is financially sound. United seeks to maintain a proper relationship between capital and total assets to support growth and sustain earnings. United has historically generated attractive returns on shareholders’ equity. Based on regulatory requirements, United and its banking subsidiaries are categorized as “well capitalized” institutions. United’s risk-based capital ratios of 12.23% at December 31, 2009 and 10.99% at December 31, 2008, were both significantly higher than the minimum regulatory requirements. United’s Tier I capital and leverage ratios of 10.97% and 8.94%, respectively, at December 31, 2009, are also well above minimum regulatory requirements. Being classified as a “well-capitalized” institution allows United to have special regulatory consideration in various areas. See Note Q, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Total year-end 2009 shareholders’ equity increased $24.84 million or 3.37% to $761.55 million from $736.71 million at December 31, 2008. United’s equity to assets ratio was 9.76% at December 31, 2009 as compared to 9.09% at December 31, 2008. The primary capital ratio, capital and reserves to total assets and reserves, was 10.56% at December 31, 2009, as compared to 9.80% at December 31, 2008. United’s average equity to average asset ratio was 9.64% and 9.76% for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. All these financial measurements reflect a financially sound position.

During the fourth quarter of 2009, United’s Board of Directors declared a cash dividend of $0.30 per share. Dividends per share of $1.17 for the year of 2009 represented an increase over the $1.16 per share paid for 2008. Total cash dividends declared to common shareholders were approximately $50.84 million for the year of 2009 as compared to $50.23 million for the year of 2008. The year 2009 was the thirty-sixth consecutive year of dividend increases to United shareholders.

 

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The following table shows selected consolidated operating and capital ratios for each of the last three years ended December 31:

 

     2009     2008     2007  

Return on average assets

   0.85   1.09   1.28

Return on average equity

   8.81   11.12   12.99

Dividend payout ratio

   75.54   57.77   52.33

Average equity to average assets ratio

   9.64   9.76   9.83

2008 COMPARED TO 2007

FINANCIAL CONDITION SUMMARY

United’s total assets as of December 31, 2008 were $8.10 billion, an increase of $107.35 billion or 1.34% from year-end 2007. The increase was primarily the result of growth in portfolio loans of $220.67 million or 3.81% due to increases in commercial real estate loans of $139.77 million or 9.27%, commercial loans (not secured by real estate) of $64.89 million or 5.36%, and single-family residential real estate loans of $32.86 million or 1.75%. Other real estate loans also increased $5.31 million or 2.21%. Construction loans were relatively flat from year-end 2007, increasing $672 thousand or less than 1%. These increases were partially offset by a decrease from year-end 2007 in installment loans of $23.49 million or 6.54%. In addition, other assets increased $27.57 million or 12.94% due mainly to increases of $37.28 million in deferred tax assets, $13.45 million in other real estate owned (OREO), $5.35 million in the derivative asset, and $4.09 million in the cash surrender value of bank-owned life insurance policies. Partially offsetting these increases from year-end 2007 were decreases in the funded status of United’s pension plan of $25.82 million, core deposit intangibles of $3.49 million, accounts receivable of $1.56 million and income taxes receivable of $1.49 million. These increases were partially offset by decreases in cash and cash equivalents mainly as the result of an $11.69 million or 5.77% decrease in cash and due from banks. Interest-bearing deposits with other banks increased $3.63 million or 34.36%, and federal funds sold decreased $9.05 million or 51.72%. During the year of 2008, net cash of $113.94 million and $72.49 million was provided by operating and financing activities, respectively. Net cash of $203.54 million was used in investing activities. In addition, total investment securities decreased $102.94 million or 7.38% since year-end 2007. Securities available for sale decreased $59.52 million or 5.15% due to $622.92 million in sales, maturities and calls of securities, $626.20 million in purchases and a decrease of $61.62 million in market value. Securities held to maturity declined $40.82 million or 25.96% from year-end 2007 due to calls and maturities of securities. Other investment securities decreased $2.60 million or 3.21%.

The increase in total assets is reflected in a corresponding increase in total liabilities of $131.84 million or 1.82% from year-end 2007. The increase in total liabilities was due mainly to growth in deposits of $298.20 million or 5.57%. In terms of composition, noninterest-bearing deposits were relatively flat, decreasing $7.33 million or slightly less than 1% while interest-bearing deposits increased $305.53 million or 6.89% from December 31, 2007. The increase in deposits was partially offset by a $179.22 million or 9.90% decrease in borrowings. Since year-end 2007, short-term borrowings decreased $257.74 million or 24.88% due to a $222 million reduction in overnight FHLB borrowings. Federal funds purchased increased $31.11 million or 32.05% while securities sold under agreements to repurchase decreased $65.56 million or 13.11% since year-end 2007. Long-term borrowings increased $78.52 million or 10.14% since year-end 2007 as long-term FHLB advances increased $89.27 million or 15.44%. Issuances of trust preferred securities decreased $10.74 million or 5.48%. In January of 2008, United redeemed the Capital Securities of United Statutory Trust II. As part of the redemption, United retired the $10.31 million principal amount of 8.59% Junior Subordinated Debentures issued by United Statutory Trust II.

Shareholders’ equity at December 31, 2008 decreased $24.49 million or 3.22% from December 31, 2007 as United continues to balance capital adequacy and the return to shareholders. Accumulated other comprehensive income decreased $63.67 million due mainly to a decline of $40.05 million, net of deferred income taxes, in the fair value of United’s available for sale investment portfolio. The after-tax funded status of United’s pension plan declined $16.44 million. The fair value of cash flow hedges decreased $7.40 million, net of deferred taxes. The decrease in shareholders’ equity was partially offset by earnings net of dividends declared which equaled $36.72 million for the year of 2008.

 

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EARNINGS SUMMARY

Net income for the year 2008 was $86.95 million or $2.00 per diluted share compared to $90.67 million or $2.15 per diluted share for the year of 2007. These results for the year of 2008 saw an increase in the provision for credit losses of $19.83 million from the year of 2007 due to increases in nonperforming assets, loan charge-offs and inherent risk factors as a result of the current economic environment. Additionally, the results for the year of 2008 included noncash before-tax other-than-temporary impairment charges of $9.89 million on certain investment securities.

The results for the year of 2007 included significant charges to prepay certain long-term debt and consummate the acquisition of Premier. During 2007, United prepaid certain Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) long-term advances and terminated interest rate swaps associated with some of the advances. The prepayment of the FHLB advances resulted in before-tax penalties of $5.12 million. The termination of the interest rate swaps resulted in a before-tax loss of $8.11 million. During the third quarter of 2007, United completed its acquisition of Premier based in Winchester, Virginia. Merger expenses and related integration costs of the Premier acquisition were $1.48 million for the year of 2007.

United’s return on average assets for the year of 2008 was 1.09% and return on average shareholders’ equity was 11.12% as compared to 1.28% and 12.99% for the year of 2007.

Tax-equivalent net interest income for the year of 2008 was $267.02 million, an increase of $25.13 million or 10.39% from the prior year. The provision for credit losses was $25.16 million for the year 2008 as compared to $5.33 million for the year of 2007.

Noninterest income was $67.30 million for the year of 2008, up $9.55 million or 16.54% when compared to the prior year. The results for 2008 included the previously mentioned noncash before-tax other-than-temporary impairment charges of $9.89 million. Included in noninterest income for the year of 2007 was the before-tax loss of $8.11 million on the termination of interest rate swaps associated with the prepayment of FHLB advances. Noninterest expense was $171.07 million, an increase of $23.14 million or 15.65% for the year of 2008 when compared to 2007. Noninterest expense for the year of 2007 included the before-tax penalties of $5.12 million to prepay FHLB advances.

United’s effective tax rate was approximately 29.8% and 30.2% for years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively, as compared to 31.4% for 2006.

The following discussion explains in more detail the results of operations by major category.

Net Interest Income

Tax-equivalent net interest income for the year of 2008 was $267.02 million, an increase of $25.13 million or 10.39% from the year of 2007. The net interest margin for the year of 2008 was 3.70%, down 6 basis points from a net interest margin of 3.76% for the year of 2007.

Tax-equivalent interest income for the year of 2008 was $444.14 million, an $11.06 million or 2.43% decrease from the year of 2007. This decrease in tax-equivalent interest income was primarily attributable to a decrease of 92 basis points in the yield on average earning assets due to a decrease in market interest rates. The average yield on net loans was 6.34% for the year of 2008, down 110 basis points from 7.44% for the year of 2007 while the average yield on investment securities was 5.46% for the year of 2008, a decrease of 24 basis points from 5.70% for the year of 2007. Partially offsetting the decrease in tax-equivalent interest income was an increase in average earning assets of $789.13 million or 12.26% as average net loans increased $705.65 million or 13.82% due mainly to the Premier acquisition. Average investment securities increased $95.48 million or 7.45%.

Interest expense for the year of 2008 was $177.12 million, a decrease of $36.19 million or 16.97% from the year of 2007. The decrease in interest expense for the year of 2008 was mainly due to a decrease of 107 basis points in the cost of funds from the year of 2007 as a result of lower market interest rates during 2008. The average cost of interest-bearing deposits was 2.71% for the year of 2008, down 83 basis points from 3.54% for the year of 2007 while the average cost of short-term

 

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borrowings was 1.69% for the year of 2008, a decrease of 262 basis points from 4.31% for the year of 2007. The average cost of long-term borrowings was 4.49% for the year of 2008, a decrease of 112 basis points from 5.61% for the year of 2007 as a result of a decrease in market interest rates and the refinancing of long-term debt during the second and fourth quarters of 2007. Average interest-bearing deposits increased $423.66 million or 10.22%, average short-term borrowings increased $161.66 million or 22.65% and average long-term borrowings increased $216.98 million or 34.14% due primarily to the Premier acquisition.

Provision for Credit Losses

For the years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007, the provision for credit losses was $25.16 million and $5.33 million, respectively. Net charge-offs were $20.30 million for the year of 2008 as compared to net charge-offs of $6.61 million for the year of 2007. These higher amounts of provision expense and net charge-offs for 2008 reflected a weakened credit environment due to a deterioration of economic conditions. Net charge-offs as a percentage of average loans were 0.35% for the year of 2008 which compares favorably to United’s most recently reported peer group banking companies’ net charge-offs to average loans percentage of 0.60% for the year of 2008.

At December 31, 2008, the allowance for credit losses was $63.60 million, compared to $58.74 million at December 31, 2007. As a percentage of loans, net of unearned income, the allowance for credit losses was 1.06% and 1.01% at December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively. The ratio of the allowance for credit losses to nonperforming loans was 117.4% and 207.4% at December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

Other Income

Noninterest income was $67.30 million for the year of 2008, up $9.55 million or 16.54% from the year of 2007. Included in noninterest income for the year of 2008 were noncash before-tax other-than-temporary impairment charges on investment securities totaling $9.89 million and a $917 thousand gain related to Visa’s initial public offering and the partial redemption of Visa shares held by United. The noncash before-tax other-than-temporary impairment charges of $9.89 million consisted of a charge of $889 thousand on certain marketable equity securities that had been in an unrealized loss position for more than six months and a charge of $9.00 million on a corporate debt holding. Noninterest income for the year of 2007 was $57.75 million which included an $8.11 million before-tax loss on the termination of interest rate swaps associated with the prepayment of FHLB advances. Excluding the results of the interest rate swap terminations and investment security transactions, noninterest income for the year of 2008 would have increased $10.79 million or 16.37% from the year of 2007.

The rise in noninterest income in the year of 2008 from the same period in 2007 was due in large part to an increase of $5.35 million or 15.82% in fees from deposit services mainly as a result of United’s High Performance Checking program and the Premier acquisition. In particular, insufficient funds (NSF) fees and check card fees increased $3.32 million or 17.13% and $1.27 million or 27.53%, respectively, for the year of 2008 as compared to the same period in 2007. In addition, account analysis fees increased $718 thousand from year-end 2007.

Trust income and brokerage commissions increased $1.17 million or 7.58% due to a greater volume of business and a larger customer base. Mortgage banking income decreased $142 thousand or 26.94% due to fewer mortgage loan sales in the secondary market during the year of 2008 as compared to 2007. For the year 2008, income from bank owned life insurance policies decreased $1.30 million or 24.05% due mainly to a decrease in cash surrender value while fees from bankcard transactions decreased $248 thousand or 4.09% due to decreased volume as a result of less consumer spending compared to the year of 2007.

Other income increased $5.73 million or 191.03% for the year of 2008 as compared to the year of 2007. This increase in other income is due mainly to an increase of $6.85 million in the fair value of certain derivative financial instruments not in a hedging relationship with a similar amount of expense related to a decline in the fair value of derivative financial instruments included in other expense. Income from the outsourcing of official checks processing for the year of 2008 decreased $832 thousand over the same period last year. The outsourcing of official checks processing was discontinued in 2008 and brought “in-house”.

 

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Other Expense

Noninterest expense for the year of 2008 was $171.07 million, an increase of $23.14 million or 15.65% from the year of 2007. Results for the year of 2007 included merger expenses and related integration costs of the Premier acquisition of $1.48 million as well as before-tax penalties of $5.12 million to prepay FHLB advances.

Employee compensation for the year of 2008 increased $8.05 million or 15.11% from the year of 2007 due mainly to the additional employees from the Premier merger. Also included in employee compensation for the year of 2008 was expense for stock options of $547 thousand as compared to $91 thousand for the year of 2007. Employee benefits expense increased $1.74 million or 14.52%. Specifically within employee benefits expense were increases in health insurance costs and employment taxes of $831 thousand and $539 thousand, respectively.

Net occupancy expense increased $2.26 million or 15.68% for the year of 2008 as compared to the year of 2007. The higher net occupancy expense for 2008 was due mainly to additional building depreciation, building rental expense, and building maintenance from the branches added in the Premier merger. Equipment expense, including other real estate owned (OREO), increased $1.88 million or 26.63% for the year of 2008 as compared to the year of 2007. The increase from 2007 was due mainly to an increase in losses due to deterioration in property values associated with OREO.

Data processing expense increased $1.37 million or 15.79% for the year of 2008 as compared to the year of 2007. The increase was primarily due to additional outsourcing of processing functions and a change in processing procedures in addition to the Premier merger. The expense for outsourcing of functions was partially offset by a reduction in personnel expense while the change in processing procedures is expected to result in future cost savings as United meets the requirements of Check 21. Bankcard processing fees decreased $327 thousand or 6.35% due to decreased transactions as a result of less consumer spending for the year of 2008 as compared to last year.

Other expenses increased $13.30 million or 31.43% for the year of 2008 as compared to the year of 2007 due mainly to an increase of $6.85 million from a decline in the fair value of derivatives not in a hedging relationship. Amortization of core deposit intangibles for the year of 2008 increased $626 thousand from the same time period in 2007 due to the Premier merger. Marketing and related costs of United’s High Performance Checking program increased $530 thousand in the year of 2008 as compared to the year of 2007. In addition, several general operating expenses such as postage, telephone, ATM processing, office supplies, advertising, and armored car increased as a result of the additional branches from the Premier merger.

United’s efficiency ratio was 48.03% for the year of 2008 which was comparable to 48.01% for the year of 2007.

Income Taxes

For the year ended December 31, 2008, income taxes were $36.91 million, compared to $39.24 million for 2007. For the years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007, United’s effective tax rates were 29.8% and 30.2%, respectively. During the third quarter of 2008, United reduced its income tax reserve for uncertainties by $1.42 million as compared to a 2007 reduction of $1.06 million due to the expiration of the statute of limitations for examination of certain years.

 

Item 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

The objective of United’s Asset/Liability Management function is to maintain consistent growth in net interest income within United’s policy guidelines. This objective is accomplished through the management of balance sheet liquidity and interest rate risk exposures due to changes in economic conditions, interest rate levels and customer preferences.

Interest Rate Risk

Management considers interest rate risk to be United’s most significant market risk. Interest rate risk is the exposure to adverse changes in United’s net interest income as a result of changes in interest rates. United’s earnings are largely dependent on the effective management of interest rate risk.

 

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Management of interest rate risk focuses on maintaining consistent growth in net interest income within Board-approved policy limits. United’s Asset/Liability Management Committee (ALCO), which includes senior management representatives and reports to the Board of Directors, monitors and manages interest rate risk to maintain an acceptable level of change to net interest income as a result of changes in interest rates. Policy established for interest rate risk is stated in terms of the change in net interest income over a one-year and two-year horizon given an immediate and sustained increase or decrease in interest rates. The current limits approved by the Board of Directors are structured on a staged basis with each stage requiring specific actions.

United employs a variety of measurement techniques to identify and manage its exposure to changing interest rates. One such technique utilizes an earnings simulation model to analyze the sensitivity of net interest income to movements in interest rates. The model is based on actual cash flows and repricing characteristics for on and off-balance sheet instruments and incorporates market-based assumptions regarding the impact of changing interest rates on the prepayment rate of certain assets and liabilities. The model also includes executive management projections for activity levels in product lines offered by United. Assumptions based on the historical behavior of deposit rates and balances in relation to changes in interest rates are also incorporated into the model. Rate scenarios could involve parallel or nonparallel shifts in the yield curve, depending on historical, current, and expected conditions, as well as the need to capture any material effects of explicit or embedded options. These assumptions are inherently uncertain and, as a result, the model cannot precisely measure net interest income or precisely predict the impact of fluctuations in interest rates on net interest income. Actual results will differ from simulated results due to timing, magnitude and frequency of interest rate changes as well as changes in market conditions and management’s strategies.

Interest sensitive assets and liabilities are defined as those assets or liabilities that mature or are repriced within a designated time frame. The principal function of managing interest rate risk is to maintain an appropriate relationship between those assets and liabilities that are sensitive to changing market interest rates. The difference between rate sensitive assets and rate sensitive liabilities for specified periods of time is known as the “GAP.” Earnings-simulation analysis captures not only the potential of these interest sensitive assets and liabilities to mature or reprice, but also the probability that they will do so. Moreover, earnings-simulation analysis considers the relative sensitivities of these balance sheet items and projects their behavior over an extended period of time. United closely monitors the sensitivity of its assets and liabilities on an on-going basis and projects the effect of various interest rate changes on its net interest margin.

The following table shows United’s estimated consolidated earnings sensitivity profile as of December 31, 2009 and 2008:

 

Change in Interest Rates (basis points)

   Percentage Change in Net Interest Income  
   December 31, 2009     December 31, 2008  

+200

   5.14   7.60

+100

   1.41   4.58

-100

   3.77   -0.50

-200

   —        —     

Given an immediate, sustained 100 basis point upward shock to the yield curve used in the simulation model, it is estimated that net interest income for United would increase by 1.41% over one year as of December 31, 2009, as compared to an increase of 4.58% as of December 31, 2008. A 200 basis point immediate, sustained upward shock in the yield curve would increase net interest income by an estimated 5.14% over one year as of December 31, 2009, as compared to an increase of 7.60% as of December 31, 2008. A 100 basis point immediate, sustained downward shock in the yield curve would increase net interest income by an estimated 3.77% over one year as of December 31, 2009 as compared to a decrease of 0.50% over one year as of December 31, 2008. With the federal funds rate at 0.25% at December 31, 2009 and 2008, management believed a 200 basis point immediate, sustained decline in rates was highly unlikely.

This analysis does not include the potential increased refinancing activities, which should lessen the negative impact on net income from falling rates. While it is unlikely market rates would immediately move 100 or 200 basis points upward or downward on a sustained basis, this is another tool used by management and the Board of Directors to gauge interest rate risk. All of these estimated changes in net interest income are and were within the policy guidelines established by the Board of Directors.

 

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To further aid in interest rate management, United’s subsidiary banks are members of the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB). The use of FHLB advances provides United with a low risk means of matching maturities of earning assets and interest-bearing funds to achieve a desired interest rate spread over the life of the earning assets. In addition, United uses credit with large regional banks and trust preferred securities to provide funding.

As part of its interest rate risk management strategy, United may use derivative instruments to protect against adverse price or interest rate movements on the value of certain assets or liabilities and on future cash flows. These derivatives commonly consist of interest rate swaps, caps, floors, collars, futures, forward contracts, written and purchased options. Interest rate swaps obligate two parties to exchange one or more payments generally calculated with reference to a fixed or variable rate of interest applied to the notional amount. United accounts for its derivative activities in accordance with the provisions of ASC topic 815, “Derivatives and Hedging.”

Extension Risk

A key feature of most mortgage loans is the ability of the borrower to repay principal earlier than scheduled. This is called a prepayment. Prepayments arise primarily due to sale of the underlying property, refinancing, or foreclosure. In general, declining interest rates tend to increase prepayments, and rising interest rates tend to slow prepayments. Like other fixed-income securities, when interest rates rise, the value of mortgage-related securities generally decline. The rate of prepayments on underlying mortgages will affect the price and volatility of mortgage-related securities and may shorten or extend the effective maturity of the security beyond what was anticipated at the time of purchase. If interest rates rise, United’s holdings of mortgage-related securities may experience reduced returns if the borrowers of the underlying mortgages pay off their mortgages later than anticipated. This is generally referred to as extension risk.

At December 31, 2009, United’s mortgage related securities portfolio had an amortized cost of $625 million, of which approximately $453 million or 72% were fixed rate collateralized mortgage obligations (CMOs). These fixed rate CMOs consisted primarily of planned amortization class (PACs), sequential-pay and accretion directed (VADMs) bonds having an average life of approximately 2 years and a weighted average yield of 4.85%, under current projected prepayment assumptions. These securities are expected to have very little extension risk in a rising rate environment. Current models show that an immediate, sustained upward shock of 300 basis points, the average life of these securities would only extend to 2.7 years. The projected price decline of the fixed rate CMO portfolio in rates up 300 basis points would be 6.1%, less than the price decline of a 3 year treasury note. By comparison, the price decline of a 30-year current coupon mortgage backed security (MBS) in rates higher by 300 basis points would be approximately 15%.

United had approximately $95 million in 15-year mortgage backed securities with a projected yield of 4.69% and a projected average life of 3.2 years as of December 31, 2009. This portfolio consisted of seasoned 15-year mortgage paper with a weighted average loan age of 4.8 years and a weighted average maturity of 9.8 years.

United had approximately $25 million in 20-year mortgage backed securities with a projected yield of 4.78% and a projected average life of 3.9 years on December 31, 2009. This portfolio consisted of seasoned 20-year mortgage paper with a weighted average loan age of 6 years and a weighted average maturity of 13.6 years.

United had approximately $12 million in 30-year mortgage backed securities with a projected yield of 6.49% and a projected average life of 3.9 years on December 31, 2009. This portfolio consisted of seasoned 30-year mortgage paper with a weighted average loan age of 10.2 years and a weighted average maturity of 18.1 years.

The remaining 6% of the mortgage-related securities portfolio at December 31, 2009, included adjustable rate securities (ARMs), balloon securities, and 10-year mortgage backed pass-through securities.

 

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MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

Management of the Company is responsible for establishing and maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance to the Company’s management and board of directors regarding the preparation and fair presentation of published financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation.

Management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009. In making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control – Integrated Framework. Based on our assessment, we believe that, as of December 31, 2009, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting is effective based on those criteria.

Ernst & Young LLP, the independent registered public accounting firm who audited the Company’s consolidated financial statements has also issued an attestation report on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009. Ernst & Young’s report on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting appears on page 50 hereof.

 

/s/ Richard M. Adams

    

/s/ Steven E. Wilson

Richard M. Adams, Chairman of the

Board and Chief Executive Officer

    

Steven E. Wilson, Executive Vice President,

Treasurer, Secretary and Chief

Financial Officer

February 25, 2010

 

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors and the

Shareholders of United Bankshares, Inc.

We have audited United Bankshares, Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (the COSO criteria). United Bankshares, Inc.’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on United Bankshares, Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, United Bankshares, Inc. maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009, based on the COSO criteria.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of United Bankshares, Inc. as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, and the related consolidated statements of income, changes in shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2009 of United Bankshares, Inc. and our report dated February 25, 2010 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Charleston, West Virginia

February 25, 2010

 

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Item 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors and the

Shareholders of United Bankshares, Inc.

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of United Bankshares, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, and the related consolidated statements of income, changes in shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2009. These financial statements are the responsibility of United Bankshares, Inc.’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of United Bankshares, Inc. and subsidiaries at December 31, 2009 and 2008, and the consolidated results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2009, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), United Bankshares, Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated February 25, 2010 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Charleston, West Virginia

February 25, 2010

 

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CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

UNITED BANKSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

(Dollars in thousands, except par value)

 

      December 31
2009
    December 31
2008
 
    

Assets

    

Cash and due from banks

   $ 134,605      $ 190,895   

Interest-bearing deposits with other banks

     314,445        14,187   

Federal funds sold

     717        8,452   
                

Total cash and cash equivalents

     449,767        213,534   

Securities available for sale at estimated fair value (amortized cost-$879,542 at December 31, 2009 and $1,165,116 at December 31, 2008)

     811,777        1,097,043   

Securities held to maturity (estimated fair value-$70,535 at December 31, 2009 and $103,505 at December 31, 2008)

     77,421        116,407   

Other investment securities

     77,722        78,372   

Loans held for sale

     5,284        868   

Loans

     5,740,778        6,020,558   

Less: Unearned income

     (3,969     (6,403
                

Loans net of unearned income

     5,736,809        6,014,155   

Less: Allowance for loan losses

     (67,853     (61,494
                

Net loans

     5,668,956        5,952,661   

Bank premises and equipment

     57,527        58,560   

Goodwill

     312,069        312,263   

Accrued interest receivable

     27,158        31,816   

Other assets

     317,420        240,567   
                

TOTAL ASSETS

   $ 7,805,101      $ 8,102,091   
                

Liabilities

    

Deposits:

    

Noninterest-bearing

   $ 1,108,157      $ 906,099   

Interest-bearing

     4,862,943        4,741,855   
                

Total deposits

     5,971,100        5,647,954   

Borrowings:

    

Federal funds purchased

     7,835        128,185   

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase

     211,659        434,425   

Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings

     587,213        879,538   

Other short-term borrowings

     3,450        3,710   

Other long-term borrowings

     184,722        185,147   

Allowance for lending-related commitments

     2,157        2,109   

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

     75,415        84,311   
                

TOTAL LIABILITIES

     7,043,551        7,365,379   

Shareholders’ Equity

    

Preferred stock, $1.00 par value; Authorized-50,000,000 shares; none issued

     —          —     

Common stock, $2.50 par value; Authorized-100,000,000 shares; issued-44,319,157 and 44,320,832 at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively, including 881,419 and 916,941shares in treasury at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively

     110,798        110,802   

Surplus

     95,284        96,654   

Retained earnings

     653,613        637,152   

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

     (68,383     (76,151

Treasury stock, at cost

     (29,762     (31,745
                

TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

     761,550        736,712   
                
    

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

   $ 7,805,101      $ 8,102,091   
                

See notes to consolidated financial statements

 

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

UNITED BANKSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

 

     Year Ended December 31  
   2009     2008     2007  

Interest income

      

Interest and fees on loans

   $ 310,077      $ 358,240      $ 367,881   

Interest on federal funds sold and other short-term investments

     309        714        2,504   

Interest and dividends on securities:

      

Taxable

     46,834        59,652        55,054   

Tax-exempt

     8,625        11,305        13,290   
                        

Total interest income

     365,845        429,911        438,729   

Interest expense

      

Interest on deposits

     83,463        124,035        146,918   

Interest on short-term borrowings

     645        14,828        30,745   

Interest on long-term borrowings

     36,266        38,256        35,647   
                        

Total interest expense

     120,374        177,119        213,310   
                        

Net interest income

     245,471        252,792        225,419   

Provision for credit losses

     46,065        25,155        5,330   
                        

Net interest income after provision for credit losses

     199,406        227,637        220,089   

Other income

      

Fees from trust and brokerage services

     13,065        16,582        15,414   

Fees from deposit services

     40,289        39,189        33,835   

Bankcard fees and merchant discounts

     4,155        5,815        6,063   

Other service charges, commissions, and fees

     1,906        1,932        1,704   

Income from bank-owned life insurance

     3,416        4,093        5,389   

Income from mortgage banking

     608        385        527   

Loss on termination of interest rate swaps associated with prepayment of FHLB advances

     —          —          (8,113

Other income

     5,236        8,725        2,998   

Total other-than-temporary impairment losses

     (34,206     (10,489     (577

Portion of loss recognized in other comprehensive income

     19,186        —          —     
                        

Net other-than-temporary impairment losses

     (15,020     (10,489     —     

Net gains on sales/calls of investment securities

     315        1,071        509   
                        

Net investment securities losses

     (14,705     (9,418     (68
                        

Total other income

     53,970        67,303        57,749   

Other expense

      

Employee compensation

     58,901        61,347        53,294   

Employee benefits

     19,192        13,680        11,945   

Net occupancy expense

     17,018        16,682        14,421   

Equipment expense

     11,691        8,920        7,044   

Data processing expense

     10,880        10,016        8,650   

Bankcard processing expense

     3,198        4,822        5,149   

Prepayment penalties on FHLB advances

     —          —          5,117   

FDIC insurance expense

     9,177        1,147        569   

Other expense

     45,070        54,459        41,740   
                        

Total other expense

     175,127        171,073        147,929   
                        

Income before income taxes

     78,249        123,867        129,909   

Income taxes

     10,951        36,913        39,235   
                        

Net income

   $ 67,298      $ 86,954      $ 90,674   
                        

 

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

UNITED BANKSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

 

     Year Ended December 31
     2009    2008    2007

Earnings per common share:

        

Basic

   $ 1.55    $ 2.01    $ 2.16
                    

Diluted

   $ 1.55    $ 2.00    $ 2.15
                    

Dividends per common share

   $ 1.17    $ 1.16    $ 1.13
                    

Average outstanding shares:

        

Basic

     43,410,431      43,286,894      41,901,422

Diluted

     43,456,889      43,434,083      42,222,899

See notes to consolidated financial statements

 

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

UNITED BANKSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

 

      Common Stock     Surplus     Retained
Earnings
    Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
    Treasury
Stock
    Total
Shareholders’
Equity
 
              
   Shares     Par Value            

Balance at January 1, 2007

   44,320,832      $ 110,802      $ 93,680      $ 559,257      $ (15,791   $ (113,856   $ 634,092   

Cumulative effect adjustment for uncertainty in income taxes

           (300         (300

Net income

           90,674            90,674   

Other comprehensive income, net of tax

             3,311          3,311   
                    

Total comprehensive income, net of tax

                 93,985   

Stock based compensation expense

         91              91   

Acquisition of Premier Community Bankshares, Inc. (2,684,068 shares)

         8,443            93,707        102,150   

Purchase of treasury stock (751,996 shares)

               (25,959     (25,959

Distribution of treasury stock for deferred compensation plan (2,541 shares)

            

 

76

  

 

 

76

  

Common dividends declared ($1.13 per share)

           (47,446         (47,446

Common stock options exercised (238,671 shares)

         (3,809         8,319        4,510   
                                                      

Balance at December 31, 2007

   44,320,832        110,802        98,405        602,185        (12,480     (37,713     761,199   

Cumulative effect adjustment for accounting for deferred compensation and postretirement benefit aspects of endorsement split-dollar life insurance arrangements

           (1,486         (1,486

Effects of changing pension plan measurement date pursuant to accounting for defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans, net of tax

           (270         (270

Net income

           86,954            86,954   

Other comprehensive income, net of tax

             (63,671       (63,671
                    

Total comprehensive income, net of tax

                 23,283   

Stock based compensation expense

         547              547   

Purchase of treasury stock (22,062 shares)

               (646     (646

Distribution of treasury stock for deferred compensation plan (5,938 shares)

               183        183   

Common dividends declared ($1.16 per share)

           (50,231         (50,231

Common stock options exercised (185,289 shares)

         (2,298         6,431        4,133   
                                                      

Balance at December 31, 2008

   44,320,832        110,802        96,654        637,152        (76,151     (31,745     736,712   

Net income

           67,298            67,298   

Other comprehensive income, net of tax

             7,768          7,768   
                    

Total comprehensive income, net of tax

                 75,066   

Stock based compensation expense

         484              484   

Purchase of treasury stock (74,703 shares)

               (1,304     (1,304

Distribution of treasury stock for deferred compensation plan (30,902 shares)

               536        536   

Cash dividends ($1.17 per share)

           (50,837         (50,837

Common stock options exercised (79,323 shares)

         (1,858         2,751        893   

Fractional shares adjustment

   (1,675     (4     4           
                                                      

Balance at December 31, 2009

   44,319,157      $ 110,798      $ 95,284      $ 653,613      $ (68,383   $ (29,762   $ 761,550   
                                                      

See notes to consolidated financial statements

 

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

UNITED BANKSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

(In thousands)

     Year Ended December 31  
   2009     2008     2007  

OPERATING ACTIVITIES

      

Net income

   $ 67,298      $ 86,954      $ 90,674   

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

      

Provision for credit losses

     46,065        25,155        5,330   

Depreciation, amortization and accretion

     6,823        6,658        7,754   

Loss (Gain) on sales of bank premises, OREO and equipment

     1,594        239        (621

Loss on termination of interest rate swap

     —          —          8,113   

Loss on securities transactions

     14,705        9,418        68   

Loans originated for sale

     (74,089     (30,743     (37,414

Proceeds from sales of loans

     70,281        31,530        38,715   

Gain on sales of loans

     (608     (385     (530

Stock-based compensation

     484        547        91   

Deferred income tax (benefit) expense

     (6,625     (179     1,656   

Contribution to pension plan

     (11,000     —          —     

Amortization of net periodic pension costs

     4,470        (1,787     (1,166

Changes in:

      

Interest receivable

     4,658        6,422        (278

Other assets

     (63,037     (20,487     (15,715

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

     (7,362     598        (15,222
                        

NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES

     53,657        113,940        81,455   
                        

INVESTING ACTIVITIES

      

Proceeds from maturities and calls of held to maturity securities

     31,353        32,013        57,466   

Proceeds from sales of securities held to maturity

     —          —          475   

Purchases of held to maturity securities

     —          —          (621

Proceeds from sales of securities available for sale

     5,500        2,010        9,913   

Proceeds from maturities and calls of securities available for sale

     507,287        621,029        617,307   

Purchases of securities available for sale

     (233,160     (626,202     (744,376

Net purchases of bank premises and equipment

     (4,947     (2,428     (3,048

Net cash of acquired subsidiary

     —          —          (35,778

Net change in other investment securities

     (183     3,439        (23,983

Net change in loans

     239,311        (233,403     (240,581
                        

NET CASH PROVIDED BY (USED IN) INVESTING ACTIVITIES

     545,161        (203,542     (363,226
                        

FINANCING ACTIVITIES

      

Cash dividends paid

     (50,383     (50,179     (46,424

Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation arrangements

     273        654        914   

Acquisition of treasury stock

     (1,180     (206     (24,889

Net proceeds from issuance of trust preferred securities

     —          —          82,475   

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

     724        2,223        3,367   

Distribution of treasury stock for deferred compensation plan

     536        183        76   

Redemption of debt related to trust preferred securities

     —          (10,310     (10,310

Repayment of long-term Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings

     (80,325     (60,734     (305,312

Proceeds from long-term Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings

     —          150,000        414,685   

Changes in:

      

Time deposits

     (162,714     386,586        (2,413

Other deposits

     485,860        (87,989     (192,635

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

     (555,376     (257,743     333,875   
                        

NET CASH (USED IN) PROVIDED BY FINANCING ACTIVITIES

     (362,585     72,485        253,409   
                        

INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

     236,233        (17,117     (28,362

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF YEAR

     213,534        230,651        259,013   
                        

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF YEAR

   $ 449,767      $ 213,534      $ 230,651   
                        

See notes to consolidated financial statements

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

UNITED BANKSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

December 31, 2009

NOTE A—SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Nature of Operations: United Bankshares, Inc. is a multi-bank holding company headquartered in Charleston, West Virginia. The principal markets of United Bankshares, Inc. and subsidiaries (United) are the cities of Parkersburg, Charleston, Huntington, Morgantown, Beckley and Wheeling, West Virginia; the counties of Arlington, Albemarle, Augusta, Fairfax, Frederick, Greene, Loudoun, Prince William, Rockingham, Shenandoah and Warren, Virginia; Montgomery County, Maryland and Belmont County, Ohio.

Operating Segments: United’s business activities are confined to one reportable segment which is community banking. As a community banking entity, United offers a full range of products and services through various delivery channels.

Basis of Presentation: The consolidated financial statements and the notes to consolidated financial statements include the accounts of United Bankshares, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in the consolidated financial statements.

The accounting and reporting policies of United conform with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. In preparing the consolidated financial statements, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates. A description of the significant accounting policies is presented below.

On June 29, 2009, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued an accounting pronouncement that established the Accounting Standards Codification (ASC). The accounting pronouncement states that the FASB Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) will become the source of authoritative U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) recognized by the FASB to be applied by all nongovernmental entities. Rules and interpretive releases of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) under authority of federal securities laws are also source of authoritative GAAP for SEC registrants. This pronouncement, which was subsequently codified as ASC topic 105, “Generally Accepted Accounting Principles,” was effective for financial statements issued for interim and annual periods after September 15, 2009. On the effective date, the Codification superseded all then-existing non-SEC accounting and reporting standards and references herein to authoritative accounting pronouncements have been updated accordingly.

Cash and Cash Equivalents: United considers cash and due from banks, interest-bearing deposits with other banks and federal funds sold as cash and cash equivalents.

Securities: Management determines the appropriate classification of securities at the time of purchase. Debt securities that United has the positive intent and the ability to hold to maturity are carried at amortized cost. Securities to be held for indefinite periods of time and all marketable equity securities are classified as available for sale and carried at estimated fair value. Unrealized gains and losses on securities classified as available for sale are carried as a separate component of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), net of deferred income taxes.

Gains or losses on sales of securities recognized by the specific identification method are reported in securities gains and losses within noninterest income of the Consolidated Statements of Income. United reviews available-for-sale and held-to-maturity securities on a quarterly basis for possible impairment. United determines whether a decline in fair value below the amortized cost basis of a security is other-than-temporary. This determination requires significant judgment. In making this judgment, United’s review includes an analysis of the facts and circumstances of each individual investment such as the severity of loss, the length of time the fair value has been below cost, the expectation for that security’s performance, the creditworthiness of the issuer, recent changes in external credit ratings, the assessment of collection of the security’s

 

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contractual amounts from the issuer or issuers. If United intends to sell, or is more likely than not will be required to sell an impaired debt security before recovery of its amortized cost basis less any current period credit loss, other-than-temporary impairment is recognized in earnings. The credit loss is defined as the difference between the present value of cash flows expected to be collected and the amortized cost basis. The amount recognized in earnings is equal to the entire difference between the security’s amortized cost basis and its fair value at the balance sheet date. If United does not intend to sell, and is not more likely than not it will be required to sell the impaired debt security prior to recovery of its amortized cost basis less any current-period credit loss, the other-than-temporary impairment is separated into the following: 1) the amount representing the credit loss, which is recognized within noninterest income of the Consolidated Statements of Income, and 2) the amount related to all other factors, which is recognized in other comprehensive income within shareholders’ equity of the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

For equity securities, United evaluates the near-term prospects of the investment in relation to the severity and duration of any impairment and United’s ability and intent to hold these equity securities until a recovery of their fair value to at least the cost basis of the investment. Equity securities that are deemed to be other-than-temporarily impaired are written down to the fair value with the write-down recognized within noninterest income of the Consolidated Statements of Income.

Certain security investments that do not have readily determinable fair values and for which United does not exercise significant influence are carried at cost and are classified as other investment securities on the balance sheet. These cost-method investments are reviewed for impairment at least annually or sooner if events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable.

Securities Purchased Under Resale Agreements and Securities Sold Under Agreements to Repurchase: Securities purchased under agreements to resell and securities sold under agreements to repurchase are generally accounted for as collateralized financial transactions. They are recorded at the amounts at which the securities were acquired or sold plus accrued interest. Securities, generally U.S. government and federal agency securities, pledged as collateral under these financing arrangements cannot be repledged or sold, unless replaced, by the secured party. The fair value of the collateral either received from or provided to a third party is continually monitored and additional collateral is obtained or is requested to be returned to United as deemed appropriate.

Loans: Loans are reported at the principal amount outstanding, net of unearned income. Interest on loans is accrued and credited to operations using methods that produce a level yield on individual principal amounts outstanding. Loan origination and commitment fees and related direct loan origination costs are deferred and amortized as an adjustment of loan yield over the estimated life of the related loan. Loan fees amortized and included in interest income were $6,306,000, $5,738,000 and $4,631,000 for the years of 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively. The accrual of interest income on commercial and most consumer loans generally is discontinued when a loan becomes 90 to 120 days past due as to principal or interest. When interest accruals are discontinued, unpaid interest recognized in income in the current year is reversed, and interest accrued in prior years is charged to the allowance for loan losses. Management may elect to continue the accrual of interest when the estimated net realizable value of collateral exceeds the principal balance and accrued interest, and the loan is in the process of collection.

Consistent with United’s existing method of income recognition for loans, interest on impaired loans, except those classified as nonaccrual, is recognized as income using the accrual method. United’s method of income recognition for impaired loans that are classified as nonaccrual is to recognize interest income on the cash basis or apply the cash receipt to principal when the ultimate collectibility of principal is in doubt.

Loans Held for Sale: Loans held for sale consist of one-to-four family conforming residential real estate loans originated for sale in the secondary market and carried at the lower of cost or fair value determined on an aggregate basis. Generally, United’s current practice is to sell all fixed-rate, one-to-four family conforming residential real estate loans while holding adjustable–rate loans. However, United will sell certain adjustable-rate, one-to-four family conforming residential real estate loans based on prevailing interest rate conditions and interest rate risk management needs. Gains and losses on sales of loans held for sale are included in mortgage banking income.

 

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Allowance for Credit Losses: United maintains an allowance for loan losses and an allowance for lending-related commitments such as unfunded loan commitments and letters of credit. The combined allowances for loan losses and lending- related commitments are referred to as the allowance for credit losses.

The allowance for credit losses is management’s estimate of the probable credit losses inherent in the loan portfolio. Management’s evaluation of the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses and the appropriate provision for credit losses is based upon a quarterly evaluation of the portfolio. This evaluation is inherently subjective and requires significant estimates, including the amounts and timing of estimated future cash flows, estimated losses on pools of loans based on historical loss experience, and consideration of current economic trends, all of which are susceptible to constant and significant change. The amounts allocated to specific credits and loan pools grouped by similar risk characteristics are reviewed on a quarterly basis and adjusted as necessary based upon subsequent changes in circumstances. In determining the components of the allowance for credit losses, management considers the risk arising in part from, but not limited to, charge-off and delinquency trends, current economic and business conditions, lending policies and procedures, the size and risk characteristics of the loan portfolio, concentrations of credit, and other various factors. Loans deemed to be uncollectible are charged against the allowance for loan losses, while recoveries of previously charged-off amounts are credited to the allowance for loan losses.

In determining the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses, management makes allocations to specific commercial loans classified by management as to risk. Management determines the loan’s risk by considering the borrowers’ ability to repay, the collateral securing the credit and other borrower-specific factors that may impact collectibility. For impaired loans, specific allocations are based on the present value of expected future cash flows using the loan’s effective interest rate, or as a practical expedient, at the loan’s observable market price or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral-dependent. Other commercial loans not specifically reviewed on an individual basis are evaluated based on loan pools, which are grouped by similar risk characteristics using management’s internal risk ratings. Allocations for these commercial loan pools are determined based upon historical loss experience adjusted for current environmental conditions and risk factors. Allocations for loans, other than commercial loans, are developed by applying historical loss experience adjusted for current environmental conditions and risk factors to loan pools grouped by similar risk characteristics. While allocations are made to specific loans and pools of loans, the allowance is available for all loan losses. Management believes that the allowance for credit losses is adequate to provide for probable losses on existing loans and loan-related commitments based on information currently available.

Asset Securitization: United previously sold residential mortgage loans in a securitization transaction and retained an interest-only strip, and lower-rated subordinated classes of asset-backed securities, all of which are subordinated interests in the securitized assets. These subordinated interests in securitized assets were recorded at their estimated fair values in securities available for sale. The carrying value of these securities was fully amortized as of June 30, 2005.

United recognized the excess of all cash flows attributable to the subordinated interests using the effective yield method. However, because the carrying value of United’s subordinated interest has been zero since June 30, 2005, the difference between the cash flows associated with these underlying mortgages and amounts owed to third party investors has been recognized in interest income as cash is received by United over the remaining life of the loans. For the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, United received cash of $1,054,000, $1,772,000 and $2,866,000, respectively, on the retained interest in the securitization and recognized income of the same amounts for the respective periods. However, the securitization trust (the Trust) is subject to an adverse judgment arising from on ongoing class action suit. The adverse judgment, if confirmed on appeal, would be paid from the residual cash flow of the Trust. United cannot currently determine when or how long residual cash flow to United may be interrupted.

Bank Premises and Equipment: Bank premises and equipment are stated at cost, less allowances for depreciation and amortization. The provision for depreciation is computed principally by the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the respective assets. Useful lives range primarily from three to 15 years for furniture, fixtures and equipment and five to 40 years for buildings and improvements. Leasehold improvements are generally amortized over the lesser of the term of the respective leases or the estimated useful lives of the improvements.

Other Real Estate Owned: At December 31, 2009 and 2008, other real estate owned (OREO) included in other assets in the

 

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Consolidated Balance Sheets was $40,058,000 and $19,817,000, respectively. OREO consists of real estate acquired in foreclosure or other settlement of loans. Such assets are carried at the lower of the investment in the assets or the fair value of the assets less estimated selling costs. Any adjustment to the fair value at the date of transfer is charged against the allowance for loan losses. Any subsequent valuation adjustments as well as any costs relating to operating, holding or disposing of the property are recorded in other expense in the period incurred.

Advertising Costs: Advertising costs are generally expensed as incurred. Advertising expense was $3,338,000, $5,277,000 and $4,089,000 for the years of 2009, 2008, and 2007, respectively.

Income Taxes: Deferred income taxes (included in other assets) are provided for temporary differences between the tax basis of an asset or liability and its reported amount in the financial statements at the statutory tax rate.

For uncertain income tax positions, United records a liability based on a recognition threshold of more-likely-than-not, and a measurement attribute for all tax positions taken on a tax return, in order for those tax positions to be recognized in the financial statements.

Intangible Assets: Intangible assets relating to the estimated value of the deposit base of the acquired institutions are being amortized on an accelerated basis over a one to seven year period. Management reviews intangible assets on an annual basis, or sooner if indicators of impairment exist, and evaluates changes in facts and circumstances that may indicate impairment in the carrying value.

Goodwill is not amortized, but is tested for impairment at least annually or sooner if indicators of impairment exist. Intangible assets with definite useful lives (such as core deposit intangibles) are amortized over their respective estimated useful lives to their estimated residual values, and reviewed for impairment at least annually. Based on the most recent goodwill impairment test, no impairment was noted. United incurred amortization expense of $2,561,000, $3,494,000 and $2,868,000 in 2009, 2008, and 2007, respectively, related to all intangible assets. As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, total goodwill approximated $312,069,000 and $312,263,000, respectively.

Derivative Financial Instruments: United accounts for its derivative financial instruments in accordance with the Derivatives and Hedging topic of the FASB Accounting Standards Codification. The Derivatives and Hedging topic requires all derivative instruments to be carried at fair value on the balance sheet. United has designated certain derivative instruments to manage interest rate risk as hedge relationships with certain assets, liabilities or cash flows being hedged. Certain derivatives used for interest rate risk management are not designated in a hedge relationship.

Derivative instruments designated in a hedge relationship to mitigate exposure to changes in the fair value of an asset, liability, or firm commitment attributable to a particular risk, such as interest rate risk, are considered fair value hedges. Derivative instruments designated in a hedge relationship to mitigate exposure to variability in expected future cash flows, or other types of forecasted transactions, are considered cash flow hedges.

For a fair value hedge, the fair value of the interest rate swap is recognized on the balance sheet as either a freestanding asset or liability with a corresponding adjustment to the hedged financial instrument. Subsequent adjustments due to changes in the fair value of a derivative that qualifies as a fair value hedge are offset in current period earnings. For a cash flow hedge, the fair value of the interest rate swap is recognized on the balance sheet as either a freestanding asset or liability with a corresponding adjustment to other comprehensive income within shareholders’ equity, net of tax. Subsequent adjustments due to changes in the fair value of a derivative that qualifies as a cash flow hedge are offset to other comprehensive income, net of tax. The portion of a hedge that is ineffective is recognized immediately in earnings.

At inception of a hedge relationship, United formally documents the hedged item, the particular risk management objective, the nature of the risk being hedged, the derivative being used, how effectiveness of the hedge will be assessed and how the ineffectiveness of the hedge will be measured. United also assesses hedge effectiveness at inception and on an ongoing basis using regression analysis. Hedge ineffectiveness is measured by using the change in fair value method. The change in fair value method compares the change in the fair value of the hedging derivative to the change in the fair value of the hedged

 

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exposure, attributable to changes in the benchmark rate. Prior to January 1, 2006, United used the shortcut method for interest rate swaps that met the criteria as defined under the Derivatives and Hedging topic. Effective January 1, 2006, United adopted an internal policy accounting for all new derivative instruments entered thereafter whereby the shortcut method would no longer be used.

For derivatives that are not designated in a hedge relationship, changes in the fair value of the derivatives are recognized in earnings in the same period as the change in the fair value.

Stock Options: United has stock option plans for certain employees that were accounted for under the intrinsic value method prior to January 1, 2006. Because the exercise price at the date of the grant was equal to the market value of the stock, no compensation expense was recognized.

Since January 1, 2006, United has followed the fair value method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation. In accordance with this method, compensation expense is measured based on the grant-date fair value of the stock option award and recognized over the period during which the employee is required to provide services.

No options were granted for the year of 2009. For the year of 2008 and 2007, 10,000 and 244,550 options were granted, respectively. Stock compensation expense was $484,000 in 2009, $547,000 in 2008 and $91,000 in 2007.

Treasury Stock: United records common stock purchased for treasury at cost. At the date of subsequent reissuance, the treasury stock account is reduced by the cost of such stock using the weighted-average cost method.

Trust Assets and Income: Assets held in a fiduciary or agency capacity for customers are not included in the balance sheets since such items are not assets of the company. Trust income is reported on an accrual basis.

Earnings Per Common Share: Basic earnings per common share is calculated by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding for the respective period. For diluted earnings per common share, the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding for the respective period is increased by the number of shares of common stock that would be issued assuming the exercise of common stock options which have an exercise price below market price. The dilutive effect of stock options approximated 46,458 shares in 2009, 147,189 shares in 2008 and 321,477 shares in 2007. There are no other common stock equivalents. Other than common stock, United has no other outstanding securities that may participate in dividends with common shareholders.

The reconciliation of the numerator and denominator of basic earnings per share with that of diluted earnings per share is presented as follows:

 

     Year Ended December 31
(Dollars in thousands, except per share)    2009    2008    2007

Basic

        

Net Income

   $ 67,298    $ 86,954    $ 90,674
                    

Average common shares outstanding

     43,410,431      43,286,894      41,901,422
                    

Earnings per basic common share

   $ 1.55    $ 2.01    $ 2.16

Diluted

        

Net Income

   $ 67,298    $ 86,954    $ 90,674
                    

Average common shares outstanding

     43,410,431      43,286,894      41,901,422

Equivalents from stock options

     46,458      147,189      321,477
                    

Average diluted shares outstanding

     43,456,889      43,434,083      42,222,899
                    

Earnings per diluted common share

   $ 1.55    $ 2.00    $ 2.15

 

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Fair Value Measurements: United determines the fair values of its financial instruments based on the fair value hierarchy established in ASC topic 820, which also clarifies that fair value of certain assets and liabilities is an exit price, representing the amount that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants.

In February of 2008, the FASB delayed the fair value measurements of certain nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities except for those items that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis. These fair value measurements for such nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities were deferred to fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Thus, United only partially applied the provisions of ASC topic 820 in 2008. Those items affected included other real estate owned (OREO), goodwill and core deposit intangibles. United adopted the remaining fair value measurement requirements on January 1, 2009 which did not have a material impact on United’s consolidated financial statements.

In October of 2008, the FASB clarified the application of fair value measurements in a market that is not active and to provide key considerations in determining the fair value of a financial asset when the market for that financial asset is not active. These fair value measurement requirements were effective upon issuance, including prior periods for which financial statements were not issued.

The Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures topic specifies a hierarchy of valuation techniques based on whether the inputs to those valuation techniques are observable or unobservable. Observable inputs reflect market data obtained from independent sources, while unobservable inputs reflect United’s market assumptions.

The three levels of the fair value hierarchy based on these two types of inputs are as follows:

 

Level 1    -    Valuation is based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities.
Level 2    -    Valuation is based on observable inputs including quoted prices in active markets for similar assets and liabilities, quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in less active markets, and model-based valuation techniques for which significant assumptions can be derived primarily from or corroborated by observable data in the market.
Level 3    -    Valuation is based on model-based techniques that use one or more significant inputs or assumptions that are unobservable in the market.

When determining the fair value measurements for assets and liabilities, United looks to active and observable markets to price identical assets or liabilities whenever possible and classifies such items in Level 1. When identical assets and liabilities are not traded in active markets, United looks to market observable data for similar assets and liabilities and classifies such items as Level 2. Nevertheless, certain assets and liabilities are not actively traded in observable markets and United must use alternative valuation techniques using unobservable inputs to determine a fair value and classifies such items as Level 3. The level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant in the fair value measurement.

Other Recent Accounting Pronouncements: In August of 2009, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2009-05 (ASU 2009-05), “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (ASC topic 820) - Measuring Liabilities at Fair Value” to provide clarification that the fair value measurement of liabilities in which a quoted price in an active market for the identical liability is not available should be developed based on a valuation technique that uses the quoted price of the identical liability when traded as an asset or quoted prices for similar liabilities when traded as assets or another valuation technique that is consistent with the principles of ASC topic 820. ASU 2009-05 also clarifies that there is no requirement to adjust the fair value related to the existence of a restriction that prevents the transfer of the liability and that both a quoted price in an active market for the identical liability at the measurement date and the quoted price for the identical liability when traded as an asset in an active market when no adjustments to the quoted price of the asset are required are Level 1 fair value measurements. The new guidance is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after August 27, 2009, and applies to all fair value measurements of liabilities required by GAAP. United adopted ASU 2009-05 on October 1, 2009 as required. The adoption of this guidance did not have a significant impact on United’s financial condition or results of operations.

 

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On June 12, 2009, the FASB issued an accounting pronouncement which changes how a company determines when an entity that is not sufficiently capitalized or is not controlled through voting should be consolidated. This pronouncement will require a company to provide additional disclosures about its involvement with variable interest entities and any significant changes in risk exposure due to that involvement. The pronouncement is effective for interim periods ending after November 15, 2009. United adopted this pronouncement on January 1, 2010 as required. The adoption did not have a significant impact on United’s financial condition or results of operations.

On June 12, 2009, the FASB issued an accounting pronouncement that will require additional information about transfers of financial assets, including securitization transactions, and where companies have continuing exposure to the risks related to transferred financial assets. This pronouncement also eliminates the concept of a “qualifying special-purpose entity”, changes the requirements of derecognizing financial assets, and requires additional disclosures. The pronouncement is effective for interim periods ending after November 15, 2009. Early adoption is prohibited. United adopted this pronouncement on January 1, 2010 as required. The adoption did not have a significant impact on United’s financial condition or results of operations.

In May 2009, the FASB issued an accounting pronouncement which establishes general standards of accounting for and disclosure of events that occur after the balance sheet date but before financial statements are issued or are available to be issued. The pronouncement was subsequently codified into ASC topic 855, “Subsequent Events.” ASC topic 855 requires the disclosure of the date through which an entity has evaluated subsequent events and the basis for that date. ASC topic 855 was effective for interim periods ending after June 15, 2009. United adopted ASC topic 855 during the second quarter of 2009 and this adoption did not have a material impact on United’s financial condition or results of operations.

On April 9, 2009, the FASB issued a staff position to provide additional guidance in determining whether a market for a financial asset is not active and a transaction is not distressed for fair value measurement purposes as defined in ASC topic 820, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures”. This staff position was effective for interim periods ending after June 15, 2009, but early adoption was permitted for interim periods ending after March 15, 2009. United adopted this staff position within ASC topic 820 during the second quarter of 2009. The adoption of this staff position did not have a material impact on United’s financial condition or results of operations.

On April 9, 2009, the FASB issued a staff position, now contained within ASC topic 320, “Investments – Debt and Equity Securities,” to provide guidance in determining whether impairments in debt securities are other-than-temporary and modifies the presentation and disclosures surrounding such instruments. This staff position was effective for interim periods ending after June 15, 2009, but early adoption was permitted for interim periods ending after March 15, 2009. United adopted this staff position during the second quarter of 2009. No previous other-than-temporary loss recognized prior to the adoption of this staff position was noncredit related, thus no cumulative effect adjustment was required in adopting the accounting provisions contained within ASC topic 320. The adoption of this staff position did not have a material impact on United’s financial condition or results of operations.

On April 9, 2009, the FASB issued a staff position, now contained within ASC topic 825, “Financial Instruments,” to require disclosures about the fair value of financial instruments in interim financial statements as well as in annual financial statements. This staff position was effective for interim periods ending after June 15, 2009, but early adoption was permitted for interim periods ending after March 15, 2009. The disclosure provisions of this staff position were adopted during the second quarter of 2009 by United and the adoption did not have any impact on United’s financial condition or results of operations.

In January 2009, the FASB issued a staff position, now contained within ASC topic 320, “Investments – Debt and Equity Securities,” to eliminate the requirement that an investment holder’s best estimate of cash flows be based upon those that a market participant would use. Instead, ASC topic 320 now requires that an other-than-temporary impairment (OTTI) be recognized as a realized loss through earnings when it is probable that there has been an adverse change in the investment holder’s estimated cash flows from the cash flows previously projected. In addition, ASC topic 320 provides additional guidance emphasizing that investment holders should consider all available information (i.e., past events, current conditions,

 

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and expected events) when developing estimates of future cash flows in their OTTI assessments. The guidance was effective for interim and annual reporting periods ending after December 15, 2008. Retroactive application to prior interim or annual reporting periods is not permitted. United adopted this staff position on January 1, 2009. The adoption of this staff position did not have a material impact on United’s financial condition or results of operations.

In December 2008, the FASB issued an accounting pronouncement, now contained within ASC topic 715, “Compensation – Retirement Benefits,” which requires additional disclosures about assets held in an employer’s defined benefit pension or other postretirement plan. The objectives of the enhanced disclosures are to provide users of financial statements with an understanding of: how investment allocation decisions are made; the major categories of an employer’s plan assets; the inputs and valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of a plan’s assets; the effect of fair value measurements on plan assets using significant unobservable inputs, and significant concentrations of risk within plan assets. Additionally, ASC topic 715 requires employers to reconcile the beginning and ending balances of plan assets with fair values measured using significant Level 3 unobservable inputs. This reconciliation will require entities to separately present changes during the period that are attributable to actual return on plan assets, purchases, sales and settlements, and transfers in and out of Level 3. The disclosure provisions of ASC topic 715 are required for reporting periods ending after December 15, 2009. Comparative disclosures are not required upon adoption and earlier application is permitted. United adopted the provisions of ASC topic 715 in the fourth quarter of 2009 as required and the adoption did not have a material impact on United’s financial condition, results of operations, or liquidity.

In December 2008, the FASB issued an accounting pronouncement, now contained within ASC topic 810, “Consolidation,” to require public entities to provide additional disclosures about transfers of financial assets and their involvement with variable interest entities (VIEs). The enhanced disclosures of ASC topic 810 were required for the first reporting period, interim or annual, ending after December 15, 2008. The new disclosure provisions of ASC topic 810 have been adopted by United and the adoption did not have any impact on United’s financial condition, results of operations, or liquidity.

In March 2008, the FASB issued an accounting pronouncement, now contained within ASC topic 815, “Derivatives and Hedging,” to establish new disclosures intended to improve financial reporting about derivative instruments and hedging activities by requiring enhanced disclosures to enable investors to better understand their effects on an entity’s financial position, financial performance, and cash flows. The new disclosure requirements were effective for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008, with early adoption encouraged. The new disclosure provisions of ASC topic 815 have been adopted by United and the adoption did not have any impact on United’s financial condition, results of operations, or liquidity.

In December 2007, the FASB issued an accounting pronouncement, now contained within ASC topic 805, “Business Combinations,” to establish new requirements to improve the relevance, representational faithfulness, and comparability of the information that a reporting entity provides in its financial reports about a business combination and its effects. The new requirements within ASC topic 805 are effective for business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. Thus, the new requirements within ASC topic 805 had no effect on United’s consolidated financial statements.

In December 2007, the FASB issued an accounting pronouncement, now contained within ASC topic 810, “Consolidation,” to establish accounting and reporting standards for the noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary and for the deconsolidation of a subsidiary. It clarifies that a noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary is an ownership interest in the consolidated entity that should be reported as equity in the consolidated financial statements. These new standards were effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after December 15, 2008. United adopted the new standards within ASC topic 810 on January 1, 2009. The adoption did not have a material impact on United’s consolidated financial statements.

NOTE B—INVESTMENT SECURITIES

The following is a summary of the amortized cost and estimated fair values of securities available for sale.

 

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     December 31, 2009
(In thousands)    Amortized
Cost
   Gross
Unrealized
Gains
   Gross
Unrealized
Losses
   Estimated
Fair Value

U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. Government corporations and agencies

   $ 4,960    $ 54    $ —      $ 5,014

State and political subdivisions

     96,900      3,389      167      100,122

Residential mortgage-backed securities

           

Agency

     478,916      18,924      —        497,840

Non-agency

     145,480      55      11,690      133,845

Trust preferred collateralized debt obligations

     132,457      —        73,162      59,295

Single issue trust preferred securities

     15,552      49      5,214      10,387

Marketable equity securities

     5,277      159      162      5,274
                           

Total

   $ 879,542    $ 22,630    $ 90,395    $ 811,777
                           
     December 31, 2008
(In thousands)    Amortized
Cost
   Gross
Unrealized
Gains
   Gross
Unrealized
Losses
   Estimated
Fair Value

U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. Government corporations and agencies

   $ 10,704    $ 113    $ —      $ 10,817

State and political subdivisions

     112,720      1,357      1,345      112,732

Residential mortgage-backed securities

           

Agency

     681,147      13,525      75      694,597

Non-agency

     202,214      —        21,492      180,722

Trust preferred collateralized debt obligations

     137,740      —        53,608      84,132

Single issue trust preferred securities

     15,521      —        6,252      9,269

Marketable equity securities

     5,070      —        296      4,774
                           

Total

   $ 1,165,116    $ 14,995    $ 83,068    $ 1,097,043
                           

Provided below is a summary of securities available for sale which were in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2009 and 2008.

 

     Less than 12 months    12 months or longer
(In thousands)    Market
Value
   Unrealized
Losses
   Market
Value
   Unrealized
Losses

December 31, 2009

           

U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. Government corporations and agencies

     —        —        —        —  

State and political subdivisions

   $ 3,443    $ 53    $ 2,649    $ 114

Residential mortgage-backed securities

           

Agency

     163      —        —        —  

Non-agency

     26,181      209      85,138      11,481

Trust preferred collateralized debt obligations

     —        —        59,295      73,162

Single issue trust preferred securities

     115      19      9,239      5,195

Marketable equity securities

     244      17      448      145
                           

Total

   $ 30,146    $ 298    $ 156,769    $ 90,097
                           

 

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     Less than 12 months    12 months or longer
(In thousands)    Market
Value
   Unrealized
Losses
   Market
Value
   Unrealized
Losses

December 31, 2008

           

U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. Government corporations and agencies

     —        —        —        —  

State and political subdivisions

   $ 38,574    $ 1,345      —        —  

Residential mortgage-backed securities

           

Agency

     13,718      18    $ 5,491    $ 57

Non-agency

     159,590      18,008      21,133      3,484

Trust preferred collateralized debt obligations

     19,562      10,211      64,571      43,396

Single issue trust preferred securities

     5,537      5,043      3,732      1,210

Marketable equity securities

     613      277      356      19
                           

Total

   $ 237,594    $ 34,902    $ 95,283    $ 48,166
                           

Marketable equity securities consist mainly of equity securities of financial institutions. The following table shows the proceeds from sales and calls of available for sale securities and the gross realized gains and losses on sales and calls of those securities that have been included in earnings as a result of those sales and calls. Gains or losses on sales and calls of available for sale securities were recognized by the specific identification method.

 

     Year Ended
(In thousands)    2009    2008    2007

Proceeds from sales and calls

   $ 512,787    $ 623,039    $ 627,220

Gross realized gains

     772      116      235

Gross realized losses

     541      —        —  

The realized losses relate to sales of securities within a rabbi trust for the payment of benefits under a deferred compensation plan for certain key officers of United and its subsidiaries.

At December 31, 2009, gross unrealized losses on available for sale securities were $90,395,000 on 97 securities of a total portfolio of 373 available for sale securities. Securities in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2009 consisted primarily of pooled trust preferred collateralized debt obligations (TRUP CDOs), single issue trust preferred securities and non-agency residential mortgage-backed securities. The TRUP CDOs and the single issue trust preferred securities relate mainly to securities of financial institutions. The unrealized loss on the non-agency residential mortgage-backed securities portfolio relates primarily to AAA securities of various private label issuers. The Company has no exposure to real estate investment trusts (REITS) in its investment portfolio.

In determining whether or not the TRUP CDOs were other-than-temporarily impaired, management considered the severity and the duration of the loss in conjunction with United’s positive intent and the more likely than not ability to hold these securities to recovery of their cost basis or maturity.

In analyzing the duration and severity of the losses, management considered the following: (1) the market for these securities was not active as evidenced by the lack of trades and the severe widening of the bid/ask spread; (2) the markets for TRUP CDOs ultimately became dysfunctional with no significant transactions to report; (3) low market prices for certain bonds, in the overall debt markets, were evidence of credit stress in the general markets and not necessarily an indication of credit problems with a particular issuer; and (4) the general widening in overall risk premiums in the broader markets was responsible for a significant amount of the price decline in the TRUP CDO portfolio.

 

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At December 31, 2009, United determined that certain TRUP CDOs were other-than-temporarily impaired. Management completed an in-depth analysis of the collateral pool, cash flow waterfall structure, and expected cash flows of the TRUP CDO portfolio. After completing the analysis, management determined that the expected cash flows from these particular securities were less than the cash flows originally expected at purchase as an adverse change had occurred. Therefore, based upon management’s analysis and judgment, certain TRUP CDOs were determined to be other-than-temporarily impaired. The credit-related other-than-temporary impairment recognized in earnings for the fourth quarter of 2009 related to these securities was $2.56 million. The noncredit-related other-than-temporary impairment recognized in the fourth quarter on these securities, which are not expected to be sold, was $14.24 million. The noncredit-related other-than-temporary impairment, net of deferred taxes, of $9.26 million was recognized during the fourth quarter in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (OCI).

The amortized cost of available for sale TRUP CDOs in an unrealized loss position for twelve months or longer as of December 31, 2009 consisted of $15.00 million in investment grade bonds, $7.39 million in split-rated bonds and $110.07 million in below investment grade bonds. In the single issue trust preferred securities portfolio, there were no securities greater than $6.00 million in an unrealized loss position for twelve months or longer.

The following is a summary of the available for sale TRUP CDOs and single issue trust preferred securities in an unrealized loss position twelve months or greater as of December 31, 2009:

 

                    Amortized Cost

Class

   Amortized
Cost
   Fair
Value
   Unrealized
Loss
   Investment
Grade
   Split
Rated
   Below
Investment
Grade
     (In thousands)

Senior

   $ 25,209    $ 14,927    $ 10,282    $ 15,000      —      $ 10,209

Mezzanine (now in senior position)

     19,146      8,777      10,369      —      $ 7,390      11,756

Mezzanine

     88,102      35,591      52,511      —        —        88,102

Single issue trust preferred

     14,434      9,239      5,195      3,357      5,466      5,611
                                         

Totals

   $ 146,891    $ 68,534    $ 78,357    $ 18,357    $ 12,856    $ 115,678
                                         

To determine a net realizable value and assess whether other-than-temporary impairment existed, management performed detailed cash flow analysis to determine whether, in management’s judgment, it was more likely than not that United would not recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security. Management’s cash flow analysis was performed for each issuer and considered the current deferrals and defaults, the likelihood that current deferrals would cure or ultimately default, potential future deferrals and defaults, subordination, cash reserves, excess interest spread, credit analysis of the underlying collateral and the priority of payments in the cash flow structure. Management also spoke with analysts who covered specific companies, particularly when those companies were deferring or experiencing financial difficulties. The underlying collateral analysis for each issuer took into consideration several factors including TARP participation, capital adequacy, earnings trends and asset quality. Management also performed a stress test analysis to determine what level of defaults would have to occur before United would experience a break in yield or principal.

Management also considered the ratings of the Company’s bonds in its portfolio and the extent of downgrades in United’s impairment analysis. However, due to historical discrepancies in ratings from the various rating agencies, management considered it imperative to independently perform its own credit analysis based on cash flows as described above and exercise management’s professional judgment in evaluating whether it was probable that United would be unable to realize all principal and interest expected at purchase.

Except for the securities that have already been deemed to be other than temporarily impaired, management does not believe any other individual security with an unrealized loss as of December 31, 2009 is other-than-temporarily impaired. For debt securities, United believes the decline in value resulted from changes in market interest rates, credit spreads and liquidity, not a change in the expected contractual cash flows. Based on a review of each of the securities in the investment portfolio, management concluded that it expected to recover the amortized cost basis of the investment in such securities. As of

 

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December 31, 2009, United does not intend to sell any impaired debt security nor is it anticipated that it would be required to sell any impaired debt security before the recovery of its amortized cost basis. For equity securities, United recognized $120 thousand of other than temporary impairment during the fourth quarter of 2009. For the remaining equity securities, United has evaluated the near-term prospects of the investment in relation to the severity and duration of any impairment and based on that evaluation, management does not believe any other individual equity security is other-than-temporarily impaired. As of December 31, 2009, United has the ability and intent to hold these equity securities until a recovery of their fair value to at least the cost basis of the investment.

During the fourth quarter of 2009, United recorded losses of $139 thousand on certain investment tax credit securities within its held to maturity investment portfolio that were considered other-than-temporarily impaired. United also evaluated all of its cost method investments and identified certain events or changes in circumstances during the fourth quarter of 2009 which had a significant adverse effect on the fair value of certain cost method securities. Therefore, United recorded an impairment loss of $9 thousand in the fourth quarter of 2009 on these certain cost method securities.

Below is a progression of the anticipated credit losses on securities which United has recorded other-than-temporary charges on through earnings and other comprehensive income.

 

(In thousands)     

Balance of cumulative credit losses at December 31, 2008

   $ 10,489

Additions for credit losses on securities for which OTTI was not previously recognized

     14,630

Additions for additional credit losses on securities for which OTTI was previously recognized

     390
      

Balance of cumulative credit losses at December 31, 2009

   $ 25,509
      

The amortized cost and estimated fair value of securities available for sale at December 31, 2009 by contractual maturity are shown below. Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities because the issuers may have the right to call or prepay obligations without penalties.

Maturities of mortgage-backed securities with an amortized cost of $624,396,000 and an estimated fair value of $631,685,000 at December 31, 2009 are included below based upon contractual maturity.

 

(In thousands)    Amortized
Cost
   Estimated
Fair
Value

Due in one year or less

   $ 10,560    $ 10,613

Due after one year through five years

     62,537      64,514

Due after five years through ten years

     179,564      183,417

Due after ten years

     621,604      547,959

Marketable equity securities

     5,277      5,274
             

Total

   $ 879,542    $ 811,777
             

The following is a summary of the amortized cost and estimated fair values of securities held to maturity.

 

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     December 31, 2009
(In thousands)    Amortized
Cost
   Gross
Unrealized
Gains
   Gross
Unrealized
Losses
   Estimated
Fair Value

U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. Government corporations and agencies

   $ 11,331    $ 1,588    $ —      $ 12,919

State and political subdivisions

     25,904      666      79      26,491

Residential mortgage-backed securities

           

Agency

     108      12      —        120

Non-agency

     2      —        —        2

Single issue trust preferred securities

     33,499      —        9,073      24,426

Other corporate securities

     6,577      —        —        6,577
                           

Total

   $ 77,421    $ 2,266    $ 9,152    $ 70,535
                           
     December 31, 2008
(In thousands)    Amortized
Cost
   Gross
Unrealized
Gains
   Gross
Unrealized
Losses
   Estimated
Fair Value

U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. Government corporations and agencies

   $ 11,455    $ 2,630    $ —      $ 14,085

State and political subdivisions

     34,495      594      291      34,798

Residential mortgage-backed securities

           

Agency

     133      8      —        141

Non-agency

     2      —        —        2

Single issue trust preferred securities

     59,069      404      15,324      44,149

Other corporate securities

     11,253      —        923      10,330
                           

Total

   $ 116,407    $ 3,636    $ 16,538    $ 103,505
                           

Even though the market value of the held-to-maturity investment portfolio is less than its cost, the unrealized loss has no impact on the net worth or regulatory capital requirements of United. As of December 31, 2009, the Company’s three largest held-to-maturity single-issue trust preferred exposures were to Wells Fargo ($10.14 million), SunTrust Bank ($7.36 million), and Peoples Bancorp Inc. ($7.25 million). Other corporate securities consist mainly of bonds of corporations.

The following table shows the gross realized gains and losses on calls of held to maturity securities that have been included in earnings as a result of those calls. Gains or losses on calls of held to maturity securities are recognized by the specific identification method.

 

     Year Ended
(In thousands)    2009    2008    2007

Gross realized gains

   129    38    757

Gross realized losses

   45    124    503

The amortized cost and estimated fair value of debt securities held to maturity at December 31, 2009 by contractual maturity are shown below. Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities because the issuers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties.

 

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Maturities of mortgage-backed securities with an amortized cost of $110,000 and an estimated fair value of $122,000 at December 31, 2009 are included below based upon contractual maturity.

 

(In thousands)    Amortized
Cost
   Estimated
Fair Value

Due in one year or less

   $ 2,770    $ 2,807

Due after one year through five years

     8,196      8,428

Due after five years through ten years

     21,682      23,447

Due after ten years

     44,773      35,853
             

Total

   $ 77,421    $ 70,535
             

The carrying value of securities pledged to secure public deposits, securities sold under agreements to repurchase, and for other purposes as required or permitted by law, approximated $734,403,000 and $1,101,632,000 at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

The fair value of mortgage-backed securities is affected by changes in interest rates and prepayment speed. When interest rates decline, prepayment speeds generally accelerate due to homeowners refinancing their mortgages at lower interest rates. This may result in the proceeds being reinvested at lower interest rates. Rising interest rates may decrease the assumed prepayment speed. Slower prepayment speeds may extend the maturity of the security beyond its estimated maturity. Therefore, investors may not be able to invest at current higher market rates due to the extended expected maturity of the security. United had net unrealized losses of $7,301,000 and $8,034,000 at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively, on all mortgage-backed securities.

The following table sets forth the maturities of all securities (based on amortized cost) at December 31, 2009, and the weighted-average yields of such securities (calculated on the basis of the cost and the effective yields weighted for the scheduled maturity of each security).

 

     Within 1 Year     After 1 But
Within 5 Years
    After 5 But
Within 10 Years
    After 10 Years  
     Amount    Yield     Amount    Yield     Amount    Yield     Amount    Yield  
     (Dollars in thousands)  

U.S. Treasury and other U.S. Government agencies and corporations

   $ 3,978    0.07   $ 982    5.47   $ 11,331    5.65     —      —     

States and political subdivisions (1)

     3,386    7.00     24,362    6.27     54,908    6.35   $ 40,148    6.74

Residential mortgage-backed securities

                    

Agency

     5,967    4.23     30,111    4.81     78,656    4.87     364,290    4.92

Non-agency

     —      —          14,277    4.74     54,351    5.01     76,854    5.57

Trust preferred collateralized debt obligations

     —      —          —      —          —      —          132,457    3.22

Single issue trust preferred securities

     —      —          —      —          —      —          49,051    4.41

Marketable equity securities

     —      —          —      —          —      —          5,277    2.20

Other Corporate securities

     —      —          1,000    —          2,000    —          3,577    —     

 

(1) Tax-equivalent adjustments (using a 35% federal rate) have been made in calculating yields on obligations of states and political subdivisions.

There are no securities with a single issuer, other than the U.S. government and its agencies and corporations, the book value of which in the aggregate exceeds 10% of United’s total shareholders’ equity.

 

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NOTE C—LOANS

Major classifications of loans are as follows:

 

     December 31  
(In thousands)    2009     2008  

Loans held for sale

   $ 5,284      $ 868   
                

Commercial, financial, and agricultural

   $ 1,108,265      $ 1,274,937   

Real Estate:

    

Single family residential

     1,859,439        1,915,355   

Commercial

     1,619,628        1,647,307   

Construction

     559,602        601,995   

Other

     275,405        245,214   

Consumer

     318,439        335,750   

Less: Unearned interest

     (3,969     (6,403
                

Total Loans, net of unearned interest

   $ 5,736,809      $ 6,014,155   
                

At December 31, 2009 and 2008, loans-in-process of $802,000 and $3,944,000 and overdrafts from deposit accounts of $3,581,000 and $3,148,000, respectively, are included within the appropriate loan classifications above.

United’s subsidiary banks have made loans, in the normal course of business, to the directors and officers of United and its subsidiaries, and to their associates. Such related party loans were made on substantially the same terms, including interest rates and collateral, as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with unrelated persons and did not involve more than normal risk of collectibility. The aggregate dollar amount of these loans was $91,820,000 and $123,536,000 at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. During 2009, $144,293,000 of new loans were made and repayments totaled $176,009,000.

Nonperforming loans include 1) nonaccrual loans, 2) loans that are contractually past due 90 days or more as to interest or principal, but have not been put on a nonaccrual basis and 3) loans whose terms have been restructured for economic or legal reasons due to financial difficulties of the borrowers. At December 31, 2009 and 2008, nonperforming loans were as follows:

 

     December 31,
(In thousands)    2009    2008

Nonaccrual loans

   $ 50,856    $ 42,317

Loans which are contractually past due 90 days or more as to interest or principal, and are still accruing interest

     20,314      11,881

Restructured loans

     1,087      —  
             

Total Nonperforming Loans

   $ 72,257    $ 54,198
             

At December 31, 2009, the recorded investment in loans that were considered to be impaired was $63,221,000. Included in this amount were $37,937,000 of impaired loans for which the related allowance for credit losses was $6,891,000 and $25,284,000 of impaired loans that did not have an allowance for credit losses. At December 31, 2008, the recorded investment in loans that were considered to be impaired was $59,742,000. Included in this amount were $30,253,000 of impaired loans for which the related allowance for credit losses was $5,434,000, and $29,489,000 of impaired loans that did not have an allowance for credit losses.

The average recorded investment in impaired loans during the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 was approximately $58,896,000, $50,281,000 and $28,908,000, respectively. The increase in impaired loans for 2009 and 2008 was due mainly to a weakened credit environment as a result of a deterioration of economic conditions.

 

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The amount of interest income that would have been recorded on impaired loans under the original terms was $4,100,000, $4,108,000 and $1,865,000 for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, United recognized interest income on those impaired loans of approximately $1,255,000, $2,085,000 and $1,423,000, respectively, substantially all of which was recognized using the accrual method of income recognition.

NOTE D—ALLOWANCE FOR CREDIT LOSSES

United maintains an allowance for loan losses and an allowance for lending-related commitments such as unfunded loan commitments and letters of credit. The allowance for lending-related commitments of $2,157,000 and $2,109,000 at December 31, 2009 and 2008 is separately classified on the balance sheet and is included in other liabilities. The combined allowances for loan losses and lending-related commitments are referred to as the allowance for credit losses.

A progression of the allowance for credit losses, which includes the allowance for credit losses and the allowance for lending-related commitments, for the periods presented is summarized as follows:

 

     Year Ended December 31
(In thousands)    2009    2008    2007

Balance at beginning of period

   $ 63,603    $ 58,744    $ 52,371

Allowance of purchased subsidiaries

     —        —        7,648

Provision for credit losses

     46,065      25,155      5,330
                    
     109,668      83,899      65,349
                    

Loans charged off

     41,077      21,198      7,738

Less recoveries

     1,419      902      1,133
                    

Net charge-offs

     39,658      20,296      6,605
                    

Balance at end of period

   $ 70,010    $ 63,603    $ 58,744
                    

NOTE E—BANK PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT AND LEASES

Bank premises and equipment are summarized as follows:

 

     December 31
(In thousands)    2009    2008

Land

   $ 17,819    $ 17,824

Buildings and improvements

     66,316      65,960

Leasehold improvements

     17,683      18,468

Furniture, fixtures and equipment

     52,265      80,082
             
     154,083      182,334

Less allowance for depreciation and amortization

     96,556      123,774
             

Net bank premises and equipment

   $ 57,527    $ 58,560
             

Depreciation expense was $5,849,000, $5,770,000, and $5,171,000 for years ending December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively, while amortization expense was $103,000 in each of these respective periods.

United and certain banking subsidiaries have entered into various noncancelable-operating leases. These noncancelable operating leases are subject to renewal options under various terms and some leases provide for periodic rate adjustments based on cost-of-living index changes. Rent expense for noncancelable operating leases approximated $8,178,000, $7,889,000 and $7,336,000 for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively. United Bank (WV) leases one of its offices from a company that is beneficially owned by a United director. United Bank (WV) also leases two additional offices from a former United director who retired from the Board in May of 2008. Rent expense incurred on these facilities was $1,024,000, $995,000, and $976,000 for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008, and 2007, respectively.

 

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Future minimum lease payments, by year and in the aggregate, under noncancelable operating leases with initial or remaining terms of one year or more, for years subsequent to December 31, 2009, consisted of the following:

 

Year

   Amount
(In thousands)     

2010

   $ 7,729

2011

     6,846

2012

     5,910

2013

     4,328

2014

     3,434

Thereafter

     5,732
      

Total minimum lease payments

   $ 33,979
      

NOTE F—GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLES

The following is a summary of intangible assets subject to amortization and those not subject to amortization:

 

     As of December 31, 2009
(In thousands)    Gross Carrying
Amount
   Accumulated
Amortization
    Net Carrying
Amount

Amortized intangible assets:

       

Core deposit intangible assets

   $ 30,995    $ (26,172   $ 4,823
                     

Goodwill not subject to amortization

        $ 312,069
           
     As of December 31, 2008
     Gross Carrying
Amount
   Accumulated
Amortization
    Net Carrying
Amount

Amortized intangible assets:

       

Core deposit intangible assets

   $ 30,995    $ (23,611   $ 7,384
                     

Goodwill not subject to amortization

        $ 312,263
           

The following table sets forth the anticipated amortization expense for intangible assets for the years subsequent to 2009:

 

Year

   Amount
(In thousands)     

2010

   $ 1,884

2011

     1,362

2012

     915

2013

     466

2014 and thereafter

     196

 

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NOTE G—DEPOSITS

The book value of deposits consisted of the following:

 

     December 31
(Dollars in thousands)    2009    2008

Demand deposits

   $ 575,501    $ 419,091

Interest-bearing checking

     257,654      175,065

Regular savings

     348,982      322,478

Money market accounts

     2,053,829      1,833,472

Time deposits under $100,000

     1,409,137      1,886,256

Time deposits over $100,000

     1,325,997      1,011,592
             

Total deposits

   $ 5,971,100    $ 5,647,954
             

Interest paid on deposits approximated $88,576,000, $127,412,000 and $144,532,000 in 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

United’s subsidiary banks have received deposits, in the normal course of business, from the directors and officers of United and its subsidiaries, and their associates. Such related party deposits were accepted on substantially the same terms, including interest rates and maturities, as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with unrelated persons. The aggregate dollar amount of these deposits was $158,882,000 and $107,797,000 at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

NOTE H—SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS

At December 31, 2009 and 2008, short-term borrowings and the related weighted-average interest rates were as follows:

 

     2009     2008  
(Dollars in thousands)    Amount    Weighted-
Average
Rate
    Amount    Weighted-
Average
Rate
 

Federal funds purchased

   $ 7,835    0.20   $ 128,185    0.34

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase

     211,659    0.04     434,425    0.06

Overnight FHLB Advances

     —      —          212,000    0.57

TT&L note option

     3,450    —          3,710    —     
                  

Total

   $ 222,944      $ 778,320   
                  

Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase have been a significant source of funds for the company. United has various unused lines of credit available from certain of its correspondent banks in the aggregate amount of $300,000,000. These lines of credit, which bear interest at prevailing market rates, permit United to borrow funds in the overnight market, and are renewable annually subject to certain conditions.

The following table shows the distribution of United’s federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase and the weighted-average interest rates thereon at the end of each of the last three years. Also provided are the maximum amount of borrowings and the average amounts of borrowings as well as weighted-average interest rates for the last three years.

 

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Table of Contents
(Dollars in thousands)    Federal
Funds
Purchased
    Securities Sold
Under
Agreements

To Repurchase
 

At December 31:

    

2009

   $ 7,835      $ 211,659   

2008

     128,185        434,425   

2007

     97,074        499,989   

Weighted-average interest rate at year-end:

    

2009

     0.2     —     

2008

     0.3     0.1

2007

     4.1     3.3

Maximum amount outstanding at any month’s end:

    

2009

   $ 207,680      $ 367,887   

2008

     128,185        572,007   

2007

     138,150        613,665   

Average amount outstanding during the year:

    

2009

   $ 89,109      $ 329,905   

2008

     104,919        535,125   

2007

     99,415        553,257   

Weighted-average interest rate during the year:

    

2009

     0.4     —     

2008

     2.1     1.4

2007

     5.0     4.1

At December 31, 2009, repurchase agreements included $210,216,000 in overnight accounts. The remaining balance principally consists of agreements having maturities less than one year. The rates offered on these funds vary according to movements in the federal funds and short-term investment market rates.

United is in the process of finalizing a $10,000,000 line of credit with an unrelated financial institution to provide for general liquidity needs. The line will be an unsecured, revolving line of credit. The line will be renewable on a 360 day basis and will carry an indexed, floating-rate of interest. The line will require compliance with various financial and nonfinancial covenants. United previously had an additional line of credit in the amount of $30,000,000 with another unrelated financial institution. United chose to terminate this line due to the lack of use and associated fee structure. At December 31, 2009 and 2008, United had no outstanding balance under either of these lines of credit.

United Bank (VA) participates in the Treasury Investment Program (TT&L), which is essentially the U.S. Treasury’s savings account for companies depositing employment and other tax payments. The bank holds the funds in an open-ended, interest-bearing note until the Treasury withdraws or “calls” the funds. A maximum note balance is established that must be collateralized at all times. All tax deposits or portions of the tax deposits up to the maximum balance are generally available as a source of short-term investment funding. As of December 31, 2009, United Bank (VA) had an outstanding balance of $3,450,000 and had additional funding available of $1,550,000.

Interest paid on short-term borrowings approximated $767,000, $15,316,000 and $31,373,000 in 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

 

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NOTE I—LONG-TERM BORROWINGS

United’s subsidiary banks are members of the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB). Membership in the FHLB makes available short-term and long-term borrowings from collateralized advances. All FHLB borrowings are collateralized by a mix of single-family residential mortgage loans, commercial loans and investment securities. At December 31, 2009, the total carrying value of loans pledged as collateral for FHLB advances approximated $2,765,115,000. United had an unused borrowing amount as of December 31, 2009 of approximately $1,610,601,000 available subject to delivery of collateral after certain trigger points.

Advances may be called by the FHLB or redeemed by United based on predefined factors and penalties. During 2007, United prepaid $608.9 million of long-term FHLB advances and terminated interest rate swaps associated with three of the advances. The prepayment of the FHLB advances resulted in before-tax penalties of $5.12 million and the termination of the interest rate swaps resulted in a before-tax loss of $8.11 million for the year of 2007.

At December 31, 2009 and 2008, FHLB advances and the related weighted-average interest rates were as follows:

 

     2009     2008  
(Dollars in thousands)    Amount    Weighted-
Average
Contractual
Rate
    Weighted-
Average
Effective
Rate
    Amount    Weighted-
Average
Contractual
Rate
    Weighted-
Average
Effective
Rate
 

FHLB advances

   $ 587,213    2.52   2.52   $ 879,538    2.67   2.67

No overnight funds were included in the $587,213,000 above at December 31, 2009. At December 31, 2008, included in the $879,538,000 above was $212,000,000 of overnight funds while $667,538,000 was long-term advances. The weighted-average effective rate considers the effect of any interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedges outstanding at year-end 2009 and 2008 to manage interest rate risk on its long-term debt. Additional information is provided in Note N, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

At December 31, 2009, United had a total of ten statutory business trusts that were formed for the purpose of issuing or participating in pools of trust preferred capital securities (Capital Securities) with the proceeds invested in junior subordinated debt securities (Debentures) of United. The Debentures, which are subordinate and junior in right of payment to all present and future senior indebtedness and certain other financial obligations of United, are the sole assets of the trusts and United’s payment under the Debentures is the sole source of revenue for the trusts. At December 31, 2009 and 2008, the outstanding balance of the Debentures were $184,722,000 and $185,147,000, respectively, and were included in the category of long-term debt on the Consolidated Balance Sheets entitled “Other long-term borrowings.” The Capital Securities are not included as a component of shareholders’ equity in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. United fully and unconditionally guarantees each individual trust’s obligations under the Capital Securities.

Under the provisions of the subordinated debt, United has the right to defer payment of interest on the subordinated debt at any time, or from time to time, for periods not exceeding five years. If interest payments on the subordinated debt are deferred, the dividends on the Capital Securities are also deferred. Interest on the subordinated debt is cumulative.

The Trust Preferred Securities currently qualify as Tier 1 regulatory capital of United for regulatory purposes. In 2005, the banking regulatory agencies issued guidance, which did not change the regulatory capital treatment for the Trust Preferred Securities.

In January of 2008, United redeemed the Capital Securities of United Statutory Trust II. As part of the redemption, United retired the $10,310,000 principal amount of 8.59% Junior Subordinated Debentures issued by United Statutory Trust II.

During the fourth quarter of 2007, United redeemed the Capital Securities of United Statutory Trust I. As part of the redemption, United retired the $10,310,000 principal amount of 8.45% Junior Subordinated Debentures issued by United Statutory Trust I. During the fourth quarter of 2006, United redeemed the Capital Securities of Sequoia Capital Trust II. As

 

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part of the redemption, United retired the $3,093,000 principal amount of 9.17% Junior Subordinated Debentures issued by Sequoia Capital Trust II.

In September of 2007, United, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, United Statutory Trust VI, participated in a Capital Securities offering of a third party in the amount of $30 million to help repay the short-term borrowings used to temporarily fund the acquisition of Premier. The proceeds were invested in junior subordinated debt of United paying interest quarterly at a fixed rate of 6.60% for the first five years and then at a floating rate equal 3-month LIBOR plus 130 basis points thereafter. Under the terms of the transactions, both Capital Securities will have a maturity of 30 years, and are redeemable after five years with certain exceptions. For regulatory purposes, both the $50 million and the $30 million issuance of Capital Securities qualify as Tier I capital in accordance with current regulatory reporting requirements.

In July of 2007, United, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, United Statutory Trust V, participated in a Capital Securities offering of a third party in the amount of $50 million to help fund the acquisition of Premier. The proceeds were invested in junior subordinated debt of United paying interest quarterly at a fixed rate of 6.67% for the first five years and then at a floating rate equal to 3-month LIBOR plus 155 basis points thereafter.

As part of the acquisition of Premier Community Bankshares, Inc. (Premier) on July 14, 2007, United assumed all the obligations of Premier and its subsidiaries. Premier had a total of four statutory business trusts that were formed for the purpose of issuing or participating in Capital Securities with the proceeds invested in Debentures of Premier. At merger, Premier owed approximately $39 million on its debentures. The Capital Securities assumed in the Premier acquisition qualify as Tier 1 capital of United under current regulatory reporting requirements.

Information related to United’s statutory trusts is presented in the table below:

 

Description

   Issuance Date    Amount of
Capital
Securities
Issued
   Interest Rate    Maturity Date
(Dollars in thousands)                    

Century Trust

   March 23, 2000    $ 8,800    10.875% Fixed    March 8, 2030

Sequoia Trust I

   March 28, 2001    $ 7,000    10.18% Fixed    June 8, 2031

United Statutory Trust III

   December 17, 2003    $ 20,000    3-month LIBOR + 2.85%    December 17, 2033

United Statutory Trust IV

   December 19, 2003    $ 25,000    3-month LIBOR + 2.85%    January 23, 2034

United Statutory Trust V

   July 12, 2007    $ 50,000    6.67% Fixed, until October 2012    October 1,2037

United Statutory Trust VI

   September 20, 2007    $ 30,000    6.60% Fixed, until October 2012    December 15, 2037

Premier Statutory Trust II

   September 25, 2003    $ 6,000    3-month LIBOR + 3.10%    October 8, 2033

Premier Statutory Trust III

   May 16, 2005    $ 8,000    3-month LIBOR + 1.74%    June 15, 2035

Premier Statutory Trust IV

   June 20, 2006    $ 14,000    3-month LIBOR + 1.55%    September 23, 2036

Premier Statutory Trust V

   December 14, 2006    $ 10,000    6.62% Fixed, until March 2012    March 1, 2037

 

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At December 31, 2009 and 2008, the Debentures and their related weighted-average interest rates were as follows:

 

     2009     2008  
(Dollars in thousands)    Amount    Weighted-
Average
Rate
    Amount    Weighted-
Average
Rate
 

Century Trust

   $ 8,800    10.88   $ 8,800    10.88

Sequoia Trust I

     7,942    10.18     8,452    10.18

United Statutory Trust III

     20,619    3.10     20,619    4.72

United Statutory Trust IV

     25,774    3.13     25,774    6.32

United Statutory Trust V

     51,547    6.67     51,547    6.67

United Statutory Trust VI

     30,928    6.60     30,928    6.60

Premier Statutory Trust II

     6,121    3.38     6,036    7.92

Premier Statutory Trust III

     8,248    1.99     8,248    3.74

Premier Statutory Trust IV

     14,433    1.80     14,433    3.05

Premier Statutory Trust V

     10,310    6.62     10,310    6.62
                  

Total

   $ 184,722      $ 185,147   
                  

At December 31, 2009, the scheduled maturities of long-term borrowings were as follows:

 

Year

   Amount
(In thousands)     

2010

   $ 385,129

2011

     60,212

2012

     55,000

2013

     29,465

2014 and thereafter

     242,129
      

Total

   $ 771,935
      

Interest paid on long-term borrowings approximated $37,094,000, $38,049,000 and $33,863,000 in 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

NOTE J—INCOME TAXES

The income tax provisions included in the consolidated statements of income are summarized as follows:

 

(In thousands)    Year Ended December 31
     2009     2008     2007

Current expense:

      

Federal

   $ 17,222      $ 35,800      $ 36,378

State

     354        1,292        1,201

Deferred expense (benefit):

      

Federal and State

     (6,625     (179     1,656
                      

Total income taxes

   $ 10,951      $ 36,913      $ 39,235
                      

The following is a reconciliation of income tax expense to the amount computed by applying the statutory federal income tax rate to income before income taxes.

 

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     Year Ended December 31  
(Dollars in thousands)    2009     2008     2007  
     Amount     %     Amount     %     Amount     %  

Tax on income before taxes at statutory federal rate

   $ 27,387      35.0   $ 43,354      35.0   $ 45,468      35.0

Plus: State income taxes net of federal tax benefits

     230      0.3        840      0.7        800      0.6   
                                          
     27,617      35.3        44,194      35.7        46,268      35.6   

Increase (decrease) resulting from:

            

Tax-exempt interest income

     (3,885   (5.0     (4,171   (3.4     (3,843   (3.0

Tax reserve adjustment

     (4,685   (6.0     (1,023   (0.8     (955   (0.7

Reversal of net operating loss valuation allowance

     (7,978   (10.2     —        —          —        —     

Other items-net

     (118   (0.1     (2,087   (1.7     (2,235   (1.7
                                          

Income taxes

   $ 10,951      14.0   $ 36,913      29.8   $ 39,235      30.2
                                          

For years ended 2009, 2008 and 2007, United recognized a federal income tax benefit applicable to securities transactions of $110,000, $375,000 and $24,000, respectively. Income taxes paid approximated $22,152,000, $34,208,000 and $48,563,000 in 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively. Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes.

Taxes not on income, which consists mainly of business franchise taxes, were $4,252,000, $4,382,000 and $4,516,000 for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively. These amounts are recorded in other expense in the Consolidated Statements of Income.

Significant components of United’s deferred tax assets and liabilities (included in other assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets) at December 31, 2009 and 2008 are as follows:

 

(In thousands)    2009    2008

Deferred tax assets:

     

Allowance for credit losses

   $ 26,727    $ 25,346

Other accrued liabilities

     134      228

Unrecognized components of net periodic pension costs

     13,006      15,948

Unrealized loss on cash flow hedge

     2,691      3,754

Unrealized loss on securities available for sale

     23,812      24,230

Net operating loss

     6,443      —  

Other

     2,072      1,014
             

Total deferred tax assets

     74,885      70,520
             

Deferred tax liabilities:

     

Purchase accounting intangibles

     6,303      6,769

Deferred mortgage points

     1,368      1,379

Accrued benefits payable

     11,728      9,139

Premises and equipment

     1,548      1,497
             

Total deferred tax liabilities

     20,947      18,784
             

Net deferred tax assets

   $ 53,938    $ 51,736
             

At December 31, 2009, United had state net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $117 million that are subject to limitation imposed by tax laws and, if not used, will expire from 2025 to 2028.

 

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In accordance with ASC topic 740, “Income Taxes,” United records a liability for uncertain income tax positions based on a recognition threshold of more-likely-than-not, and a measurement attribute for all tax positions taken on a tax return, in order for those tax positions to be recognized in the financial statements. United adopted these recognition provisions of ASC topic 740 as of January 1, 2007, as required. The cumulative effect of adopting these recognition provisions was $300,000 which was recorded in retained earnings. Also, certain amounts have been reclassified in the statement of financial position in order to comply with the requirements of the ASC topic 740.

Below is a reconciliation of the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits:

 

     December 31  
(In thousands)    2009     2008  

Unrecognized tax benefits at beginning of year

   $ 7,321      $ 7,545   

(Decreases) Increases in unrecognized tax benefits as a result of tax positions settled during the current period

     (5,744     1,736   

Decreases in the unrecognized tax benefits as a result of a lapse of the applicable statute of limitations

     (459     (1,960
                

Unrecognized tax benefits at end of year

   $ 1,118      $ 7,321   
                

The entire amount of unrecognized tax benefits, if recognized, would impact United’s effective tax rate. Over the next 12 months, the statute of limitations will close on certain income tax returns. However, at this time, United cannot reasonably estimate the amount of tax benefits it may recognize over the next 12 months.

United is currently open to audit under the statute of limitations by the Internal Revenue Service and State Taxing authorities for the years ended December 31, 2006 through 2008. Late in the first quarter of 2009, the State of West Virginia finalized its tax exam for the years ended December 31, 2005 through 2007. In accordance with ASC topic 740, at the close of the examination, United recognized a benefit associated with net operating loss carryforwards, coupled with a positive adjustment to income tax expense due to settlement of previously uncertain tax positions. The income tax benefit recorded in the first quarter of 2009 related to these two events was $11,507,000.

As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the total amount of accrued interest related to uncertain tax positions was $490,000 and $754,000, respectively. United accounts for interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions as part of its provision for federal and state income taxes. No interest or penalties were recognized in the results or operations for the years of 2009, 2008 and 2007.

NOTE K—EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

United has a defined benefit retirement plan covering substantially all employees. Pension benefits are based on years of service and the average of the employee’s highest five consecutive plan years of basic compensation paid during the ten plan years preceding the date of determination. Contributions by United are intended to provide not only for benefits attributed to service to date, but also for those expected to be earned in the future.

In September of 2007, after a recommendation by United’s Pension Committee and approval by United’s Board of Directors, the United Bankshares, Inc. Pension Plan (the Plan) was amended to change the participation rules. The decision to change the participation rules for the Plan follows current industry trends, as many large and medium size companies have taken similar steps. The amendment provides that employees hired on or after October 1, 2007, will not be eligible to participate in the Plan. However, new employees will continue to be eligible to participate in United’s Savings and Stock Investment 401(k) plan. This change has no impact on current employees (those hired prior to October 1, 2007). They will continue to participate in the Plan, with no change in benefit provisions, and will continue to be eligible to participate in United’s Savings and Stock Investment 401(k) Plan.

Included in accumulated other comprehensive income at December 31, 2009 are the following amounts that have not yet been recognized in net periodic pension cost: unrecognized transition asset of $131,000 ($79,000 net of tax), unrecognized prior service costs of $5,000 ($3,000 net of tax) and unrecognized actuarial losses of $32,848,000 ($19,709,000 net of tax). The

 

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amortization of these items expected to be recognized in net periodic pension cost during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2010 is $131,000 ($79,000 net of tax), $1,000 ($1,000 net of tax), and $2,310,000 ($1,386,000 net of tax), respectively.

Net consolidated periodic pension cost included the following components:

 

(Dollars in thousands)    Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2008     2007  

Service cost

   $ 2,337      $ 2,165      $ 2,154   

Interest cost

     4,129        3,721        3,474   

Expected return on plan assets

     (5,328     (7,691     (7,213

Amortization of transition asset

     (175     (175     (175

Recognized net actuarial loss

     3,506        192        593   

Amortization of prior service cost

     1        1        1   
                        

Net periodic pension cost

   $ 4,470      $ (1,787   $ (1,166
                        

Weighted-Average Assumptions:

      

Discount rate

     6.25     6.25     6.25

Expected return on assets

     8.00     8.50     8.50

Rate of Compensation Increase (prior to age 45)

     4.75     4.75     —     

Rate of Compensation Increase (otherwise)

     3.25     3.25     3.25

The reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of the projected benefit obligation and the fair value of plan assets for the year ended December 31, 2009 and the accumulated benefit obligation at December 31, 2008 is as follows:

 

(Dollars in thousands)    December 31,  
Change in Projected Benefit Obligation    2009     2008  

Projected Benefit Obligation at the Beginning of the Year

   $ 65,208      $ 60,690   

Service Cost

     2,337        2,707   

Interest Cost

     4,129        4,651   

Actuarial (Gain) Loss

     554        (517

Benefits Paid

     (2,092     (2,323
                

Projected Benefit at the End of the Year

   $ 70,136      $ 65,208   

Accumulated Benefit Obligation at the End of the Year

   $ 63,324      $ 59,516   

Change in Plan Assets

    

Fair Value of Plan Assets at the Beginning of the Year

   $ 67,583      $ 91,640   

Actual Return on Plan Assets

     11,016        (21,734

Benefits Paid

     (2,092     (2,323

Employer Contributions

     11,000        —     
                

Fair value of plan assets at end of year

   $ 87,507      $ 67,583   

Net Amount Recognized

    

Funded Status

   $ 17,371      $ 2,375   

Unrecognized Transition Asset

     (131     (307

Unrecognized Prior Service Cost

     5        7   

Unrecognized Net Loss

     32,848        41,489   
                

Net Amount Recognized

   $ 50,093      $ 43,564   
                

Weighted-Average Assumptions at the End of the Year

    

Discount Rate

     6.25     6.25

Rate of Compensation Increase (prior to age 45)

     3.75     4.75

Rate of Compensation Increase (otherwise)

     2.75     3.25

 

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In September 2006, the FASB issued ASC topic 715, “Compensation – Retirement Benefits.” The measurement date provisions of ASC topic 715 require employers to measure the funded status of a plan as of the end of the employers’ fiscal year, with limited exceptions. United adopted the measurement date provisions of ASC topic 715 as of January 1, 2008, as required. As a result, United recognized a net periodic pension cost of $270, net of tax, for the period between the prior measurement date of September 30, 2007 and December 31, 2007 as a separate adjustment of the opening balance of retained earnings on January 1, 2008. Asset allocation for the defined benefit pension plan as of the measurement date, by asset category, is as follows:

 

Plan Assets

   Target Allocation
2010
    Allowable
Allocation Range
    Percentage of
Plan Assets at
 
                 December 31,
2009
    December 31,
2008
 

Equity Securities

   70   50-80   60   38

Debt Securities

   25   20-40   35   51

Other

   5   3-10   5   11
                

Total

       100   100
                

Equity securities include United common stock in the amounts of $2,113,000 (4%) at December 31, 2009 and $3,516,000 (5%) at December 31, 2008.

The policy, as established by the Pension Committee, primarily consisting of United’s Executive Management, is to invest assets based upon the target allocations stated above. The assets are reallocated periodically to meet the above target allocations. The investment policy is reviewed at least annually, subject to the approval of the Pension Committee, to determine if the policy should be changed. Prohibited investments include, but are not limited to, futures contracts, private placements, uncovered options, real estate, the use of margin, short sales, derivatives for speculative purposes, and other investments that are speculative in nature. In order to achieve a prudent level of portfolio diversification, the securities of any one company are not to exceed 10% of the total plan assets, and no more than the 15% of total plan assets is to be invested in any one industry (other than securities of U.S. Government or Agencies). Additionally, no more than 15% of the plan assets is to be invested in foreign securities, both equity and fixed. The expected long-term rate of return for the plan’s total assets is based on the expected return of each of the above categories, weighted based on the median of the target allocation for each class.

At December 31, 2009, the benefits expected to be paid in each of the next five fiscal years, and in the aggregate for the five years thereafter are as follows:

 

Year

   Amount
(In thousands)     

2010

   $ 2,368

2011

     2,594

2012

     2,842

2013

     3,135

2014

     3,452

2015 through 2019

     20,761

During the fourth quarter of 2009, United contributed to the plan $11 million. No employer contributions were made to or required by the plan in 2008. During the third quarter of 2006, United contributed to the plan $26.64 million, its maximum allowable contribution by law. For 2010, no contributions to the plan will be required by funding regulations or law. However, United may make a discretionary contribution in 2010, the amount of which cannot be reasonably estimated at this time.

In accordance with ASC topic 715 and using the guidance contained in ASC topic 820, the following is a description of the valuation methodologies used to measure the plan assets at fair value.

Cash and Cash Equivalents: These underlying assets of are highly liquid U.S. government obligations. The fair value of cash

 

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and cash equivalents approximates cost (Level 1).

Debt Securities: These securities of the U.S. Government, municipalities, private issuers and corporations are valued at the closing price reported in the active market in which the individual security is traded (Level 1).

Common and Preferred Stock: Theses securities are valued at the closing price on the respective stock exchange (Level 1).

Mutual Funds: Generally, these securities are valued at the closing price reported in the active market in which the individual mutual fund is traded (Level 1). However, certain funds are valued by the fund administrator using pricing models that considers observable market data (Level 2).

The following table presents the balances of the plan assets, by fair value hierarchy level, as of December 31, 2009:

 

          Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2009 Using

(In thousands)

Description

   Balance as of
December 31,
2009
   Quoted Prices
in Active
Markets for
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
   Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
   Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)

Cash and Cash equivalents

   $ 4,200    $ 4,200      —      —  

Fixed Income Securities:

           

U.S. Government obligations

     244      244      —      —  

Mortgage backed securities

     662      662      —      —  

Collateralized mortgage obligations

     1,524      1,524      —      —  

Municipal obligations

     640      640      —      —  

Corporate bonds

     4,524      4,524      —      —  

Fixed Income Mutual Funds:

           

Unclassified

     1,989      1,989      —      —  

Financials

     6,678      —      $ 6,678    —  

Fixed income - general

     2,074      2,074      —      —  

Domestic

     9,243      9,243      —      —  

Alternative

     3,376      3,376      —      —  

Equity Securities:

           

Preferred stock

     265      265      —      —  

Common stock

     12,390      12,390      —      —  

Equity Mutual Funds:

           

Unclassified

     2,222      2,222      —      —  

Domestic equity large cap

     14,626      14,626      —      —  

Domestic equity small cap

     9,043      9,043      —      —  

International emerging equity

     5,086      5,086      —      —  

International equity developed

     6,819      6,819      —      —  

Alternative equity

     1,902      1,902      —      —  
                         

Total

   $ 87,507    $ 80,829    $ 6,678    —  
                         

Preferred stock investments are in financial institutions. Common stock investments are diversified amongst various industries with no industry representing more than 5% of the total plan assets.

The United Bankshares, Inc. Savings and Stock Investment Plan (the Plan) is a defined contribution plan under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code. Each employee of United, who completes ninety (90) days of qualified service, is eligible to participate in the Plan. Each participant may contribute from 1% to 100% of compensation to his/her account, subject to

 

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Internal Revenue Service maximum deferral limits. Prior to December 31, 2008, after one year of eligible service, United matched 100% of the first 2% of salary deferred and 25% of the second 2% of salary deferred with United stock. Beginning January 1, 2009, United matched 100% of the first 3% of salary deferred and 25% of the next 1% of salary deferred with United stock. Vesting is 100% for employee deferrals and the company match at the time the employee makes his/her deferral. United’s expense relating to the Plan approximated $1,180,000, $956,000 and $776,000 in 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

The assets of United’s defined benefit plan and 401(k) Plan each include investments in United common stock. At December 31, 2009 and 2008, the combined plan assets included 826,752 and 730,602 shares, respectively, of United common stock with an approximate fair value of $16,510,000 and $24,271,000, respectively. Dividends paid on United common stock held by the plans approximated $895,000, $863,000 and $822,000 for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008, and 2007, respectively.

United has certain other supplemental deferred compensation plans covering various key employees. Periodic charges are made to operations so that the liability due each employee is fully recorded as of the date of their retirement. Amounts charged to expense have not been significant in any year.

NOTE L—STOCK BASED COMPENSATION

On March 20, 2006, United’s Board of Directors approved the adoption of the 2006 Stock Option Plan, which was subsequently approved by United’s shareholders at its Annual Meeting on May 15, 2006. The 2006 Stock Option Plan became effective at the time of the shareholders’ approval. A total of 1,500,000 shares of United’s authorized but unissued common stock are allocated for the 2006 Stock Option Plan. Each plan year, 400,000 options will be available for award to eligible employees; however, not all 400,000 options are required to be awarded in that year. All options granted under the 2006 Stock Option Plan will be non-statutory stock options (NSOs), i.e. options that do not qualify as incentive stock options under Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code. Subject to certain change in control provisions, recipients of options will be fully vested in and permitted to exercise options granted under the 2006 Stock Option Plan three years from the grant date. As of December 31, 2009, 254,550 shares have been granted under the 2006 Stock Option Plan resulting in the recognition of compensation expense of $484 thousand in the year of 2009 which was included in salaries and employee benefit expense in the Consolidated Statement of Income. A Form S-8 was filed on October 25, 2006 with the Securities and Exchange Commission to register all the shares available for the 2006 Stock Option Plan.

United currently has options outstanding from various option plans other than the 2006 Stock Option Plan (the Prior Plans); however, no common shares of United stock are available for grants under the Prior Plans as these plans have expired. Awards outstanding under the Prior Plans will remain in effect in accordance with their respective terms. The maximum term for options granted under the plans is ten (10) years.

The fair value of the options for 2007 was estimated at the date of grant using a binomial lattice option pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions: risk-free interest rates of 4.09%; dividend yield of 3.00%; volatility factors of the expected market price of United’s common stock of 0.2954; and a weighted-average expected option life of 5.89 years, respectively. The estimated fair value of the options at the date of grant was $7.06 for the options granted during 2007.

The fair value of the 10,000 options granted during the second quarter of 2008 was estimated at the date of grant using a binomial lattice option pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions: risk-free interest rates of 3.14%; dividend yield of 3.00%; volatility factors of the expected market price of United’s common stock of 0.3297; and a weighted-average expected option life of 5.89 years, respectively. ASC topic 718, “Compensation – Stock Compensation” defines a lattice model as a model that produces an estimated fair value based on the assumed changes in prices of a financial instrument over successive periods of time. A binomial lattice model assumes at least two price movements are possible in each period of time.

 

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A summary of option activity under the Plans as of December 31, 2009, and the changes during the year of 2009 are presented below:

 

     Year ended December 31, 2009
               Weighted Average
     Shares    Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
   Remaining
Contractual
Term (Yrs.)
   Exercise
Price

Outstanding at January 1, 2009

   1,724,649          $ 27.98

Granted

   —              —  

Exercised

   79,323            10.68

Forfeited or expired

   155,024            27.07
                 

Outstanding at December 31, 2009

   1,490,302    $ 1,240    4.3    $ 28.99
                       

Exercisable at December 31, 2009

   1,270,002    $ 1,240    3.7    $ 29.20
                       

The following table summarizes the status of United’s nonvested awards for the year ended December 31, 2009:

 

     Shares    Weighted-Average
Grant Date Fair
Value Per Share

Nonvested at January 1, 2009

   237,550    $ 7.06

Granted

   —        —  

Vested

   —        —  

Forfeited or expired

   17,250      7.06
           

Nonvested at December 31, 2009

   220,300    $ 7.06
           

As of December 31, 2009, the total unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested awards was $432 thousand with a weighted-average expense recognition period of 0.83 years. The total fair value of awards vested during the year ended December 31, 2009, was zero as none of the awards granted in 2007 has vested.

Prior to December 31, 2008, United had additional outstanding stock options related to a deferred compensation plan assumed in the 1998 merger with George Mason Bankshares, Inc. (GMBS). The stock options granted under this deferred compensation plan were to former directors of GMBS. These options carried no exercise cost, contained no expiration date, and were eligible for dividends. During the fourth quarter of 2008, United liquidated the plan and issued all 14,604 shares underlying the outstanding options. United recorded compensation expense for this plan based on the number of options outstanding and United’s quoted market price of its common stock with an equivalent adjustment to an associated liability. For the years of 2008, 2007, and 2006, compensation expense from these stock options was not significant. No associated liability from these stock options remained as of December 31, 2008.

Cash received from options exercised under the Plans for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 was $724 thousand, $2.22 million, and $3.37 million, respectively. During 2009 and 2008, 79,323 and 170,685 shares, respectively, were issued in connection with stock option exercises. All shares issued in connection with stock option exercises were issued from available treasury stock for 2009 and 2008. The weighted-average grant-date fair value of options granted in the year of 2008 and 2007 was $7.25 and $7.06, respectively. No options were granted in the year of 2009. The total intrinsic value of options exercised under the Plans during the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008, and 2007 was $800 thousand, $1.65 million, and $3.35 million, respectively.

The Statement of Cash Flows topic of the FASB Accounting Standards Codification requires the benefits of tax deductions in excess of recognized compensation cost to be reported as a financing cash flow, rather than as an operating cash flow as required under previous standards. This requirement reduces net operating cash flows and increase net financing cash flows in periods after adoption. While the company cannot estimate what those amounts will be in the future (because they depend on, among other things, the date employees exercise stock options), United recognized cash flows from financing activities of $273 thousand, $654 thousand and $914 thousand from excess tax benefits related to share-based compensation for the year of 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

 

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NOTE M—COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES

United is a party to financial instruments with off-balance-sheet risk in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of its customers and to alter its own exposure to fluctuations in interest rates. These financial instruments include loan commitments, standby letters of credit, and interest rate swap agreements. The instruments involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit and interest rate risk in excess of the amount recognized in the financial statements.

United’s maximum exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the counterparty to the financial instrument for the loan commitments and standby letters of credit is the contractual or notional amount of those instruments. United uses the same policies in making commitments and conditional obligations as it does for on-balance sheet instruments. Collateral may be obtained, if deemed necessary, based on management’s credit evaluation of the counterparty.

Commitments to extend credit are agreements to lend to a customer as long as there is no violation of any condition established in the commitment contract. Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require the payment of a fee. Since many of the commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily, and historically do not, represent future cash requirements. The amount of collateral obtained, if deemed necessary upon the extension of credit, is based on management’s credit evaluation of the counterparty. United had approximately $1,726,341,000 and $1,874,051,000 of loan commitments outstanding as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively, substantially all of which contractually expire within one year.

Commercial and standby letters of credit are agreements used by United’s customers as a means of improving their credit standing in their dealings with others. Under these agreements, United guarantees certain financial commitments of its customers. A commercial letter of credit is issued specifically to facilitate trade or commerce. Typically, under the terms of a commercial letter of credit, a commitment is drawn upon when the underlying transaction is consummated as intended between the customer and a third party. United has issued commercial letters of credit of $2,121,000 and $3,035,000 as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. A standby letter of credit is generally contingent upon the failure of a customer to perform according to the terms of an underlying contract with a third party. United has issued standby letters of credit of $117,729,000 and $129,023,000 as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. In accordance with the Contingencies Topic of the FASB Accounting Standards Codification, United has determined that substantially all of its letters of credit are renewed on an annual basis and the fees associated with these letters of credit are immaterial.

In the normal course of business, United and its subsidiaries are currently involved in various legal proceedings. Management is vigorously pursuing all its legal and factual defenses and, after consultation with legal counsel, believes that all such litigation will be resolved with no material effect on United’s financial position.

NOTE N—DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

United uses derivative instruments to help aid against adverse prices or interest rate movements on the value of certain assets or liabilities and on future cash flows. These derivatives may consist of interest rate swaps, caps, floors, collars, futures, forward contracts, written and purchased options. United also executes derivative instruments with its commercial banking customers to facilitate its risk management strategies.

Derivative instruments designated in a hedge relationship to mitigate exposure to changes in the fair value of an asset, liability, or firm commitment attributable to a particular risk, such as interest rate risk, are considered fair value hedges. Derivative instruments designated in a hedge relationship to mitigate exposure to variability in expected future cash flows, or other types of forecasted transactions, are considered cash flow hedges. As of December 31, 2009, United has fair value hedges and a cash flow hedge.

In December 2007, United terminated a fixed interest rate swap designated as a cash flow hedge associated with the repayment of a $228.9 million variable interest rate FHLB advance that was being hedged. United recognized an $8.90 million before-tax loss on the termination of the swap. United replaced the $228.9 million of debt with a 3-year variable-interest rate FHLB advance and an associated fixed interest rate swap designated as a cash flow hedge.

 

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In June 2007, United terminated two fixed interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges associated with the repayment of two $100 million variable interest rate FHLB advances that were being hedged. United recognized a $787 thousand before-tax gain on the termination of the swaps. In addition, United prepaid approximately $28.9 million of a $100 million long-term convertible FHLB advance.

For the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, the derivative portfolio also included derivative financial instruments not included in hedge relationships. These derivatives consist of interest rate swaps used for interest rate management purposes and derivatives executed with commercial banking customers to facilitate their interest rate management strategies. Gains and losses on other derivative financial instruments are included in noninterest income and noninterest expense, respectively.

The following table sets forth certain information regarding interest rate derivatives portfolio used for interest-rate risk management purposes and designated as accounting hedges at December 31, 2009 and 2008.

Derivative Hedging Instruments

 

     December 31, 2009     December 31, 2008  
(Dollars in thousands)    Notional
Amount
   Average
Receive
Rate
   Average
Pay
Rate
    Notional
Amount
   Average
Receive
Rate
   Average
Pay
Rate
 

Fair Value Hedges:

                

Pay Fixed Swap (Hedging Commercial Loans)

   $ 13,694    —      6.27   $ 14,500    —      6.27
                        

Total Derivatives Used in Fair Value Hedges

   $ 13,694         $ 14,500      

Cash Flow Hedges:

                

Pay Fixed Swap (Hedging FHLB Borrowing)

   $ 234,685    —      3.79   $ 234,685    —      3.79
                        

Total Derivative Used in Cash Flow Hedges

   $ 234,685         $ 234,685      

Total Derivatives Used for Interest Rate Risk Management and Designated as Hedges

   $ 248,379         $ 249,185      
                        

The following tables summarize the fair value of United’s derivative financial instruments:

 

     Asset Derivatives
     December 31, 2009    December 31, 2008
(In thousands)    Balance
Sheet
Location
   Fair
Value
   Balance
Sheet
Location
   Fair
Value

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments

           

Interest rate contracts

   Other assets    $ 3,772    Other assets    $ 6,201
                   

Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments

      $ 3,772       $ 6,201
                   

Total asset derivatives

      $ 3,772       $ 6,201
                   

 

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     Liability Derivatives
     December 31, 2009    December 31, 2008
(In thousands)    Balance
Sheet
Location
   Fair
Value
   Balance
Sheet
Location
   Fair
Value

Derivatives designated as hedging instruments

           

Interest rate contracts

   Other liabilities    $ 9,077    Other liabilities    $ 12,803
                   

Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments

      $ 9,077       $ 12,803
                   

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments

           

Interest rate contracts

   Other liabilities    $ 3,772    Other liabilities    $ 6,201
                   

Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments

      $ 3,772       $ 6,201
                   

Total liability derivatives

      $ 12,849       $ 19,004
                   

Derivative contracts involve the risk of dealing with both bank customers and institutional derivative counterparties and their ability to meet contractual terms. Credit risk arises from the possible inability of counterparties to meet the terms of their contracts. United’s exposure is limited to the replacement value of the contracts rather than the notional amount of the contract. The Company’s agreements generally contain provisions that limit the unsecured exposure up to an agreed upon threshold. Additionally, the Company attempts to minimize credit risk through certain approval processes established by management.

The effect of United’s derivative financial instruments on its Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 are presented as follows:

 

         Year Ended  
(In thousands)    Income Statement Location   December 31,
2009
    December 31,
2008
    December 31,
2007
 

Derivatives in fair value hedging relationships

        

Interest rate contracts

   Interest income/ (expense)   $ 103      $ 217      $ 309   
                          

Total derivatives in fair value hedging relationships

     $ 103      $ 217      $ 309   
                          

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments

        

Interest rate contracts (1)

   Other income   $ 3,504      $ 7,041      $ 196   

Interest rate contracts (2)

   Other expense   $ (3,504   $ (7,041   $ (196
                          

Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments

     $ —        $ —        $ —     
                          

Total derivatives

     $ 103      $ 217      $ 309   
                          

 

(1) Represents net gains from derivative assets not designated as hedging instruments.
(2) Represents net losses from derivative liabilities not designated as hedging instruments.

For the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, changes in the fair value of any interest rate swaps attributed to hedge ineffectiveness were not significant to United’s Consolidated Statements of Income. For the year ended December 31, 2009, $1,974,000 in net deferred gains, net of tax, related to cash flow hedges were recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income. For the years ended December 31, 2008, $7,399,000 in net deferred losses, net of tax, related to cash flow hedges were recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income. During the next 12 months, United does not expect to reclassify into earnings any of the net deferred loss reported in other comprehensive income at December 31, 2009.

 

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NOTE O—COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

The changes in accumulated other comprehensive income are as follows:

 

     For the Years Ended December 31  
(In thousands)    2009     2008     2007  

Net Income

   $ 67,298      $ 86,954      $ 90,674   

Available for sale (“AFS”) securities:

      

AFS securities with OTTI charges during the period

     (24,887     —          —     

Related income tax effect

     8,710        —          —     

Less : OTTI charges recognized in net income

     5,701        —          —     

Related income tax effect

     (1,995     —          —     
                        

Net unrealized losses on AFS securities with OTTI

     (12,471     —          —     

AFS securities – all other:

      

Net change in unrealized gains (losses) on AFS securities arising during the period

     19,725        (71,040     65   

Related income tax effect

     (6,904     24,864        (23

Net reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net income

     (231     9,418        68   

Related income tax expense (benefit)

     81        (3,296     (24
                        
     12,671        (40,054     86   
                        

Net effect of AFS securities on other comprehensive income

     200        (40,054     86   

Held to maturity (“HTM”) securities:

      

Unrealized loss related to the call of HTM securities transferred from AFS to the HTM portfolio

     817        51        1,197   

Related income tax expense

     (286     (18     (419

Accretion on the unrealized loss for securities transferred from AFS to the HTM investment portfolio prior to call or maturity

     69        266        383   

Related income tax expense

     (24     (93     (134
                        

Net effect of HTM securities on other comprehensive income

     576        206        1,027   

Cash flow hedge derivatives:

      

Unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedge

     3,037        (11,383     (3,915

Related income tax (benefit) expense

     (1,063     3,984        1,370   

Termination of cash flow hedge

     —          —          6,909   

Related income tax (benefit)

     —          —          (2,418
                        

Net effect of cash flow hedge derivatives on other comprehensive income

     1,974        (7,399     1,946   
                        

Pension plan:

      

Change in pension asset

     4,491        (25,285     —     

Related income tax (benefit) expense

     (1,572     8,850        —     

Amortization of transition asset

     (175     (175     (175

Related income tax expense

     65        69        70   

Amortization of prior service cost

     1        1        1   

Related income tax benefit

     —          —          —     

Recognized net actuarial loss

     3,506        193        593   

Related income tax benefit

     (1,298     (77     (237
                        

Net effect of change in pension plan asset on other comprehensive income

     5,018        (16,424     252   
                        

Total change in other comprehensive income, net of tax

     7,768        (63,671     3,311   
                        

Total Comprehensive Income

   $ 75,066      $ 23,283      $ 93,985   
                        

 

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NOTE P—UNITED BANKSHARES, INC. (PARENT COMPANY ONLY) FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Condensed Balance Sheets

 

     December 31        
(In thousands)    2009     2008        

Assets

      

Cash and due from banks

   $ 17,625      $ 19,438     

Securities available for sale

     5,977        5,460     

Securities held to maturity

     3,461        4,091     

Other investment securities

     1,613        1,665     

Investment in subsidiaries:

      

Bank subsidiaries

     878,759        852,212     

Nonbank subsidiaries

     5,998        6,363     

Other assets

     5,897        4,280     
                  

Total Assets

   $ 919,330      $ 893,509     
                  

Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity

      

Junior subordinated debentures of subsidiary trusts

   $ 128,868      $ 128,868     

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

     28,912        27,929     

Shareholders’ equity (including other accumulated comprehensive loss of $68,383 and $76,151 at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively)

     761,550        736,712     
                  

Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity

   $ 919,330      $ 893,509     
                  
Condensed Statements of Income       
     Year Ended December 31  
(In thousands)    2009     2008     2007  

Income

      

Dividends from banking subsidiaries

   $ 52,715      $ 55,835      $ 101,294   

Net interest income

     315        410        683   

Management fees:

      

Bank subsidiaries

     9,396        9,913        10,050   

Nonbank subsidiaries

     27        26        22   

Other income

     165        (1,286     186   
                        

Total Income

     62,618        64,898        112,235   
                        

Expenses

      

Interest paid on short-term borrowings

     —          —          —     

Operating expenses

     16,127        17,851        18,226   
                        

Income Before Income Taxes and Equity in Undistributed Net Income of Subsidiaries

     46,491        47,047        94,009   

Applicable income tax benefit

     (1,886     (2,646     (3,219
                        

Income Before Equity in Undistributed Net Income of Subsidiaries

     48,377        49,693        97,228   

Equity in undistributed net income of subsidiaries:

      

Bank subsidiaries

     19,287        37,101        (6,350

Nonbank subsidiaries

     (366     160        (204
                        

Net Income

   $ 67,298      $ 86,954      $ 90,674   
                        

 

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Condensed Statements of Cash Flows

 

(In thousands)    Year Ended December 31  
     2009     2008     2007  

Operating Activities

      

Net income

   $ 67,298      $ 86,954      $ 90,674   

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

      

Equity in undistributed net income of subsidiaries

     (18,920     (37,262     6,553   

Depreciation and net amortization

     —          —          (1

Amortization of net periodic pension costs

     257        12        20   

Stock-based compensation

     484        547        91   

Net loss (gain) on securities transactions

     179        1,201        (235

Net change in other assets and liabilities

     (1,376     (740     (2,005
                        

Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities

     47,922        50,712        95,097   
                        

Investing Activities

      

Net proceeds from sales of (purchases of) securities

     243        2,496        (315

Net cash paid in acquisition of subsidiary

     —          —          (98,142

Increases in investment in subsidiaries

     —          —          (2,474

Repayment on loan balances by customers

     —          —          457   

Change in other investment securities

     52        (418     70   
                        

Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities

     295        2,078        (100,404
                        

Financing Activities

      

Net repayment of from subsidiary trusts

     —          (9,875     (10,000

Net advances from subsidiary trusts

     —          —          82,475   

Cash dividends paid

     (50,383     (50,179     (46,424

Acquisition of treasury stock

     (1,180     (206     (24,889

Distribution of treasury stock for deferred compensation plan

     536        183        76   

Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation arrangements

     273        654        914   

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

     724        2,223        3,367   
                        

Net Cash (Used in) Provided by Financing Activities

     (50,030     (57,200     5,519   
                        

(Decrease) Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents

     (1,813     (4,410     212   

Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year

     19,438        23,848        23,636   
                        

Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Year

   $ 17,625      $ 19,438      $ 23,848   
                        

 

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NOTE Q—REGULATORY MATTERS

The subsidiary banks are required to maintain average reserve balances with their respective Federal Reserve Bank. The average amount of those reserve balances maintained and required for the year ended December 31, 2009, were approximately $151,453,000 and $26,123,000, respectively. The average amount of those reserve balances maintained and required for the year ended December 31, 2008, was approximately $19,578,000 and $15,369,000, respectively.

The primary source of funds for the dividends paid by United Bankshares, Inc. to its shareholders is dividends received from its subsidiary banks. Dividends paid by United’s subsidiary banks are subject to certain regulatory limitations. Generally, the most restrictive provision requires regulatory approval if dividends declared in any year exceed that year’s net income, as defined, plus the retained net profits of the two preceding years.

During 2010, the retained net profits available for distribution to United Bankshares, Inc. by its banking subsidiaries as dividends without regulatory approval, are approximately $61,414,000, plus net income for the interim period through the date of declaration.

Under Federal Reserve regulation, the banking subsidiaries are also limited as to the amount they may loan to affiliates, including the parent company. Loans from the banking subsidiaries to the parent company are limited to 10% of the banking subsidiaries’ capital and surplus, as defined, or $58,372,000 at December 31, 2009, and must be secured by qualifying collateral.

United’s subsidiary banks are subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by federal banking agencies. Pursuant to capital adequacy guidelines, United’s subsidiary banks must meet specific capital guidelines that involve various quantitative measures of the banks’ assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance-sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. United’s subsidiary banks’ capital amounts and classifications are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings, and other factors.

Quantitative measures established by regulation to ensure capital adequacy require United to maintain minimum amounts and ratios of total and Tier I capital, as defined in the regulations, to risk-weighted assets, as defined, and of Tier I capital, as defined, to average assets, as defined. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory and possibly additional discretionary actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on United’s financial statements. As of December 31, 2009, United exceeds all capital adequacy requirements to which it is subject.

At December 31, 2009, the most recent notification from its regulators, United and its subsidiary banks were categorized as well-capitalized. To be categorized as well-capitalized, United must maintain minimum total risk-based, Tier I risk-based, and Tier I leverage ratios as set forth in the following table. There are no conditions or events since that notification that management believes would impact United’s well-capitalized status.

 

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United’s and its subsidiary banks’, United Bank (WV) and United Bank (VA), capital amounts (in thousands of dollars) and ratios are presented in the following table.

 

(Dollars in thousands)    Actual     For Capital
Adequacy
Purposes
    To Be Well-
Capitalized
 
     Amount    Ratio     Amount    Ratio     Amount    Ratio  

As of December 31, 2009:

               

Total Capital (to Risk- Weighted Assets):

               

United Bankshares

   $ 761,848    12.2   $ 498,195    ³ 8.0   $ 622,744    ³ 10.0

United Bank (WV)

     368,388    12.3     238,998    ³ 8.0     298,748    ³ 10.0

United Bank (VA)

     381,187    11.9     257,114    ³ 8.0     321,393    ³ 10.0

Tier I Capital (to Risk- Weighted Assets):

               

United Bankshares

     683,038    11.0     249,098    ³ 4.0     373,646    ³ 6.0

United Bank (WV)

     331,650    11.1     119,499    ³ 4.0     179,249    ³ 6.0

United Bank (VA)

     342,416    10.7     128,557    ³ 4.0     192,836    ³ 6.0

Tier I Capital (to Average Assets):

               

United Bankshares

     683,038    8.9     305,707    ³ 4.0     382,134    ³ 5.0

United Bank (WV)

     331,650    8.6     154,399    ³ 4.0     192,998    ³ 5.0

United Bank (VA)

     342,416    8.9     153,163    ³ 4.0     191,454    ³ 5.0

As of December 31, 2008:

               

Total Capital (to Risk- Weighted Assets):

               

United Bankshares

   $ 735,426    11.0   $ 535,373    ³ 8.0   $ 669,217    ³ 10.0

United Bank (WV)

     356,591    11.1     257,168    ³ 8.0     321,460    ³ 10.0

United Bank (VA)

     364,604    10.2     285,674    ³ 8.0     357,093    ³ 10.0

Tier I Capital (to Risk- Weighted Assets):

               

United Bankshares

     663,023    9.9     267,687    ³ 4.0     401,530    ³ 6.0

United Bank (WV)

     323,611    10.1     128,584    ³ 4.0     192,876    ³ 6.0

United Bank (VA)

     328,481    9.2     142,837    ³ 4.0     214,256    ³ 6.0

Tier I Capital (to Average Assets):

               

United Bankshares

     663,023    8.5     311,728    ³ 4.0     389,660    ³ 5.0

United Bank (WV)

     323,611    7.9     163,590    ³ 4.0     204,488    ³ 5.0

United Bank (VA)

     328,481    8.5     154,396    ³ 4.0     192,996    ³ 5.0

NOTE R—FAIR VALUES OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

In accordance with ASC topic 820, the following describes the valuation techniques used by United to measure certain financial assets and liabilities recorded at fair value on a recurring basis in the financial statements.

Securities available for sale: Securities available for sale are recorded at fair value on a recurring basis. Fair value measurement is based upon quoted market prices, when available (Level 1). If quoted market prices are not available, fair values are measured utilizing independent valuation techniques of identical or similar securities for which significant assumptions are derived primarily from or corroborated by observable market data. Third party vendors compile prices from various sources and may determine the fair value of identical or similar securities by using pricing models that considers observable market data (Level 2). Management internally reviews the fair values provided by third party vendors on a monthly basis. Management’s review consists of comparing fair values assigned by third party vendors to trades and offerings observed by management. The review requires some degree of judgment as to the number or percentage of securities to review on the part of management which could fluctuate based on results of past reviews and in comparison to current

 

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expectations. Exceptions that are deemed to be material are reviewed by management. Prices obtained from third party vendors that do not reflect forced liquidation or distressed sales are not adjusted by management. Management utilizes a number of factors to determine if a market is inactive, all of which may require a significant level of judgment. Factors that management considers include: a significant widening of the bid-ask spread, a considerable decline in the volume and level of trading activity in the instrument, a significant variance in prices among market participants, and a significant reduction in the level of observable inputs. Any securities available for sale not valued based upon quoted market prices or third party pricing models that consider observable market data are considered Level 3.

Derivatives: United utilizes interest rate swaps in order to hedge exposure to interest rate risk and variability of cash flows associated to changes in the underlying interest rate of the hedged item. United utilizes third-party vendors for derivative valuation purposes. These vendors determine the appropriate fair value based on a net present value calculation of the cash flows related to the interest rate swaps using primarily observable market inputs such as interest rate yield curves (Level 2). Valuation adjustments to derivative fair values for liquidity and credit risk are also taken into consideration, as well as the likelihood of default by United and derivative counterparties, the net counterparty exposure and the remaining maturities of the positions. Values obtained from third party vendors are typically not adjusted by management. Management internally reviews the derivative values provided by third party vendors on a quarterly basis. All derivative values are tested for reasonableness by management utilizing a net present value calculation.

The following table presents the balances of financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, segregated by the level of the valuation inputs within the fair value hierarchy:

 

          Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2009 Using

(In thousands)

Description

   Balance as of
December 31,
2009
   Quoted Prices
in Active
Markets for
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
   Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
   Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)

Assets

           

Available for sale securities:

           

U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. Government corporations and agencies

   $ 5,014      —      $ 5,014      —  

State and political subdivisions

     100,122      —        100,122      —  

Residential mortgage-backed securities

           

Agency

     497,840      —        497,840      —  

Non-agency

     133,846    $ 584      133,262      —  

Trust preferred collateralized debt obligations

     59,294      —        —      $ 59,294

Single issue trust preferred securities

     10,387      366      10,021      —  

Marketable equity securities

     5,274      5,274      —        —  

Derivative financial assets

     3,772      —        3,772      —  

Liabilities

           

Derivative financial liabilities

     12,849      —        12,849      —  

 

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          Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2008 Using

(In thousands)

Description

   Balance as of
December 31,
2008
   Quoted Prices
in Active
Markets for
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
   Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
   Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)

Assets

           

Available for sale securities:

           

U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. Government corporations and agencies

   $ 10,817      —      $ 10,817      —  

State and political subdivisions

     112,732      —        112,732      —  

Residential mortgage-backed securities

           

Agency

     694,597      —        694,597      —  

Non-agency

     180,722    $ 2,184      178,538      —  

Trust preferred collateralized debt obligations

     84,132      —        —      $ 84,132

Single issue trust preferred securities

     9,269      1,756      7,513      —  

Marketable equity securities

     4,774      4,774      —        —  

Derivative financial assets

     6,201      —        6,201      —  

Liabilities

           

Derivative financial liabilities

     19,004      —        19,004      —  

The following table presents additional information about financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value at December 31, 2009 and 2008 on a recurring basis and for which United has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value:

 

     Available-for-sale
Securities
 
(In thousands)    Trust preferred
collateralized
debt obligations
 
     2009     2008  

Balance, beginning of year

   $ 84,132      $ 5,372   

Total gains or losses (realized/unrealized):

    

Included in earnings (or changes in net assets)

     (5,370     —     

Included in other comprehensive income

     (19,468     (30,715

Purchases, issuances, and settlements

     —          —     

Transfers in and/or out of Level 3

     —          109,475   
                

Balance, ending of year

   $ 59,294      $ 84,132   
                

The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings (or changes in net assets) attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets still held at reporting date

     —          —     

At September 30, 2008, United changed its valuation technique for pooled trust preferred securities available for sale. Previously, United relied on prices compiled by third party vendors using observable market data (Level 2) to determine the values of these securities. However, the Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures topic assumes that fair values of financial

 

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assets are determined in an orderly transaction and not a forced liquidation or distressed sale at the measurement date. Based on financial market conditions, United felt that the fair values obtained from third party vendors reflected forced liquidation or distressed sales for these trust preferred securities. Management first noted a significant widening of the bid-ask spread during the first half of 2008. Management reviewed the trading patterns recorded by certain institutional trading desks and determined that the volume and trading activity in the pooled trust preferred sector had significantly decreased. Additionally, management held discussions with institutional traders to identify trends in the number and type of transactions related to the pooled trust preferred sector. Based upon management’s review of the market conditions for pooled trust preferred securities, it was determined that an income approach valuation technique (present value technique) that maximizes the use of relevant observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs would be more representative of fair value (Level 3) than the market approach valuation technique used at measurement dates prior to September 30, 2008. Management considers the following items when calculating the appropriate discount rate: the implied rate of return when the market was last active, changes in the implied rate of return as markets moved from very active to inactive, recent changes in credit ratings, and recent activity showing that the market has built in increased liquidity and credit premiums. Management’s internal credit review of each security is also factored in to determine the appropriate discount rate. The credit review considers each security’s collateral, subordination, excess spread, priority of claims, and principal and interest cushion.

Certain financial assets are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis in accordance with GAAP. Adjustments to the fair value of these assets usually result from the application of lower-of-cost-or-market accounting or write-downs of individual assets.

The following describes the valuation techniques used by United to measure certain financial assets recorded at fair value on a nonrecurring basis in the financial statements.

Loans held for sale: Loans held for sale are carried at the lower of cost or market value. These loans currently consist of one-to-four family residential loans originated for sale in the secondary market. Fair value is based on the price secondary markets are currently offering for similar loans using observable market data which is not materially different than cost due to the short duration between origination and sale (Level 2). As such, United records any fair value adjustments on a nonrecurring basis. No nonrecurring fair value adjustments were recorded on loans held for sale during the year ended December 31, 2009.

Gains and losses on the sale of loans are recorded within income from mortgage banking on the Consolidated Statements of Income.

Impaired Loans: Loans are designated as impaired when, in the judgment of management based on current information and events, it is probable that all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement will not be collected. The measurement of loss associated with impaired loans can be based on either the observable market price of the loan or the fair value of the collateral. Fair value is measured based on the value of the collateral securing the loans. Collateral may be in the form of real estate or business assets including equipment, inventory, and accounts receivable. The vast majority of the collateral is real estate. The value of real estate collateral is determined utilizing an income or market valuation approach based on an appraisal conducted by an independent, licensed appraiser outside of the Company using observable market data (Level 2). However, if the collateral is a house or building in the process of construction or if an appraisal of the real estate property is over two years old, then the fair value is considered Level 3. The value of business equipment is based upon an independent appraisal if deemed significant, or the net book value on the applicable business’ financial statements if not considered significant using observable market data. Likewise, values for inventory and accounts receivables collateral are based on financial statement balances or aging reports (Level 3). Impaired loans allocated to the Allowance for Loan Losses are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. Any fair value adjustments are recorded in the period incurred as provision for credit losses expense on the Consolidated Statements of Income.

OREO: OREO consists of real estate acquired in foreclosure or other settlement of loans. Such assets are carried on the balance sheet at the lower of the investment in the assets or the fair value of the assets less estimated selling costs. Fair value is determined by one of two methods depending on whether the property has been vacated and an appraisal can be conducted. If the property has yet to be vacated and thus an appraisal cannot be performed, a Brokers Price Opinion (i.e. BPO), is obtained. A BPO represents a best estimate valuation performed by a realtor based on knowledge of current property values

 

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and a visual examination of the exterior condition of the property. Once the property is subsequently vacated, a formal appraisal is obtained and the recorded asset value appropriately adjusted. On the other hand, if the OREO property has been vacated and an appraisal can be conducted, the fair value of the property is determined based upon the appraisal. An authorized independent appraiser based on consideration of comparable property values conducts appraisals for United (Level 2). Appraisals for property other than ongoing construction are straightforward. In contrast, valuation of ongoing construction assets requires some degree of professional judgment. In conducting an appraisal for ongoing construction property, the appraiser develops two appraised amounts: an “as is” appraised value and a “completed” value. Based on professional judgment and their knowledge of the particular situation, management determines the appropriate fair value to be utilized for such property (Level 3). As a matter of policy, appraisals are updated once a year as long as management feels that a significant decrease in appraised value has not occurred. If a significant decrease in appraised value is deemed to have taken place, a new independent appraisal is obtained prior to the one-year scheduled update.

Intangible Assets: For United, intangible assets consist of goodwill and core deposit intangibles. Goodwill is tested for impairment at least annually or sooner if indicators of impairment exist. Goodwill impairment would be defined as the difference between the recorded value of goodwill (i.e. book value) and the implied fair value of goodwill. In determining the implied fair value of goodwill for purposes of evaluating goodwill impairment, United determines the fair value of the reporting unit and compares the fair value to its carrying value. If the carrying value exceeds the fair value, a step two test is performed whereby the implied fair value is computed by deducting the fair value of all tangible and intangible net assets from the fair value of the reporting unit. Core deposit intangibles relate to the estimated value of the deposit base of acquired institutions. Management reviews core deposit intangible assets on an annual basis, or sooner if indicators of impairment exist, and evaluates changes in facts and circumstances that may indicate impairment in the carrying value. No fair value measurement of intangible assets was made during the year of 2009 and 2008.

The following table summarizes United’s financial assets that were measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis as of December 31, 2009 and 2008:

 

(In thousands)

Description

   Balance as of
December 31,
2009
   Carrying value at December 31, 2009     
      Quoted Prices
in Active
Markets for
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
   Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
   Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
   YTD
Losses

Assets

              

Impaired Loans

   $ 37,937    —      $ 20,057    $ 17,880    $ 3,443

OREO (1)

     40,058    —        37,588      2,470      1,100

(In thousands)

Description

   Balance as of
December 31,
2008
   Carrying value at December 31, 2008     
      Quoted Prices
in Active
Markets for
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
   Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
   Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
   YTD
Losses

Assets

              

Impaired Loans

   $ 30,253    —      $ 12,945    $ 17,308    $ 1,316

 

(1)

United was not required to adopt the fair value measurement requirements for OREO until January 1, 2009.

The following methods and assumptions were used by United in estimating its fair value disclosures for other financial instruments:

Cash and Cash Equivalents: The carrying amounts reported in the balance sheet for cash and cash equivalents approximate those assets’ fair values.

 

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Securities held to maturity and other securities: The estimated fair values of held to maturity are based on quoted market prices, where available. If quoted market prices are not available, fair values are measured utilizing independent valuation techniques of identical or similar securities for which significant assumptions are derived primarily from or corroborated by observable market data. Third party vendors compile prices from various sources and may determine the fair value of identical or similar securities by using pricing models that considers observable market data. Any securities held to maturity not valued based upon the methods above are valued based on a discounted cash flow methodology using appropriately adjusted discount rates reflecting nonperformance and liquidity risks. Other securities consist mainly of shares of Federal Home Loan Bank and Federal Reserve Bank stock that do not have readily determinable fair values and are carried at cost.

Loans: The fair values of certain mortgage loans (e.g., one-to-four family residential), credit card loans, and other consumer loans are based on quoted market prices of similar loans sold in conjunction with securitization transactions, adjusted for differences in loan characteristics. The fair values of other loans (e.g., commercial real estate and rental property mortgage loans, commercial and industrial loans, financial institution loans and agricultural loans) are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses, using interest rates currently being offered for loans with similar terms to borrowers of similar creditworthiness.

Deposits: The fair values of demand deposits (e.g., interest and noninterest checking, regular savings and certain types of money market accounts) are, by definition, equal to the amount payable on demand at the reporting date (i.e., their carrying amounts). The carrying amounts of variable-rate, fixed-term money market accounts and certificates of deposit approximate their fair values at the reporting date. Fair values of fixed-rate certificates of deposit are estimated using a discounted cash flow calculation that applies interest rates currently being offered on certificates to a schedule of aggregated expected monthly maturities on time deposits.

Short-term Borrowings: The carrying amounts of federal funds purchased, borrowings under repurchase agreements and other short-term borrowings approximate their fair values.

Long-term Borrowings: The fair values of United’s Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings and trust preferred securities are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses, based on United’s current incremental borrowing rates for similar types of borrowing arrangements.

The estimated fair values of United’s financial instruments are summarized below:

 

     December 31, 2009    December 31, 2008
(In thousands)    Carrying
Amount
   Fair
Value
   Carrying
Amount
   Fair
Value

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 449,767    $ 449,767    $ 213,534    $ 213,534

Securities available for sale

     811,777      811,777      1,097,043      1,097,043

Securities held to maturity

     77,421      70,535      116,407      103,505

Other securities

     77,722      77,220      78,372      78,372

Loans held for sale

     5,284      5,284      868      868

Loans

     5,736,809      5,659,661      6,014,155      6,074,264

Derivative financial assets

     3,772      3,772      6,201      6,201

Deposits

     5,971,100      5,995,494      5,647,954      5,696,733

Short-term borrowings

     222,944      222,944      778,320      778,320

Long-term borrowings

     771,935      775,080      852,685      867,422

Derivative financial liabilities

     12,849      12,849      19,004      19,004

NOTE S—VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES

Variable interest entities (VIEs) are entities that either have a total equity investment that is insufficient to permit the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support or whose equity investors lack the characteristics of a controlling financial interest (i.e., ability to make significant decisions, through voting rights, right to receive the expected residual returns of the entity, and obligation to absorb the expected losses of the entity). VIEs can be structured as corporations, trusts, partnerships, or other legal entities. United’s business practices include relationships with certain VIEs.

 

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For United, the business purpose of these relationships primarily consists of funding activities in the form of issuing trust preferred securities.

United currently sponsors ten statutory business trusts that were created for the purpose of raising funds that qualify for Tier I regulatory capital. These trusts, of which several were acquired through bank acquisitions, issued or participated in pools of trust preferred capital securities to third-party investors with the proceeds invested in junior subordinated debt securities of United. The Company, through a small capital contribution, owns 100% of the voting equity shares of each trust. The assets, liabilities, operations, and cash flows of each trust are solely related to the issuance, administration, and repayment of the preferred equity securities held by third-party investors. United fully and unconditionally guarantees the obligations of each trust and is obligated to redeem the junior subordinated debentures upon maturity.

The trusts utilized in these transactions are variable interest entities (VIEs) as the third-party equity holders lack a controlling financial interest in the trusts through their inability to make decisions that have a significant effect on the operations and success of the entities. United does not consolidate these trusts as it is not the primary beneficiary of these entities because United’s equity interest does not absorb the majority of the trusts’ expected losses or receive a majority of their expected residual returns. Information related to United’s statutory trusts is presented in Note I, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

United, through its banking subsidiaries, also makes limited partner equity investments in various low income housing and community development partnerships sponsored by independent third-parties. United invests in these partnerships to either realize tax credits on its consolidated federal income tax return or for purposes of earning a return on its investment. These partnerships are considered VIEs as the limited partners lack a controlling financial interest in the entities through their inability to make decisions that have a significant effect on the operations and success of the partnerships. United’s limited partner interests in these entities is immaterial, however; these partnerships are not consolidated as United is not deemed to be the primary beneficiary.

The following table summarizes quantitative information about United’s significant involvement in unconsolidated VIEs:

 

     As of December 31, 2009    As of December 31, 2008
(In thousands)    Aggregate
Assets
   Aggregate
Liabilities
   Risk Of
Loss (1)
   Aggregate
Assets
   Aggregate
Liabilities
   Risk Of
Loss (1)

Trust preferred securities

   $ 186,730    $ 180,423    $ 6,307    $ 186,809    $ 180,691    $ 6,118

 

(1)

Represents investment in VIEs.

 

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NOTE T—QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)

Quarterly financial data for 2009 and 2008 is summarized below (dollars in thousands, except for per share data):

 

     1st Quarter     2nd Quarter     3rd Quarter     4th Quarter  

2009

        

Interest income

   $ 94,705      $ 92,532      $ 90,427      $ 88,181   

Interest expense

     33,788        30,323        29,104        27,159   

Net interest income

     60,917        62,209        61,323        61,022   

Provision for credit losses

     8,028        23,251        8,067        6,719   

Mortgage banking income

     137        167        172        132   

Securities gains (losses), net

     69        (1,295     (10,878     (2,601

Other noninterest income

     15,184        18,978        17,229        16,676   

Noninterest expense

     41,814        45,698        43,674        43,941   

Income taxes

     (3,168     2,954        4,040        7,125   

Net income (1)

     29,633        8,156        12,065        17,444   

Per share data:

        

Average shares outstanding (000s):

        

Basic

     43,407        43,397        43,411        43,427   

Diluted

     43,465        43,463        43,456        43,460   

Net income per share:

        

Basic

   $ 0.68      $ 0.19      $ 0.28      $ 0.40   

Diluted

   $ 0.68      $ 0.19      $ 0.28      $ 0.40   

Dividends per share

   $ 0.29      $ 0.29      $ 0.29      $ 0.30   

2008

        

Interest income

   $ 113,546      $ 106,419      $ 106,760      $ 103,186   

Interest expense

     51,268        43,267        42,623        39,961   

Net interest income

     62,278        63,152        64,137        63,225   

Provision for credit losses

     2,100        4,351        6,497        12,207   

Mortgage banking income

     93        156        93        43   

Securities gains (losses), net

     955        (46     (9,167     (1,160

Other noninterest income

     17,562        19,073        19,404        20,297   

Noninterest expense

     41,358        41,477        41,638        46,600   

Income taxes

     11,734        11,360        6,740        7,079   

Net income (1)

     25,696        25,147        19,592        16,519   

Per share data:

        

Average shares outstanding (000s):

        

Basic

     43,247        43,265        43,277        43,358   

Diluted

     43,419        43,420        43,421        43,547   

Net income per share:

        

Basic

   $ 0.59      $ 0.58      $ 0.45      $ 0.38   

Diluted

   $ 0.59      $ 0.58      $ 0.45      $ 0.38   

Dividends per share

   $ 0.29      $ 0.29      $ 0.29      $ 0.29   

 

(1)

For further information, see the related discussion “Quarterly Results” included in Management’s Discussion and Analysis.

 

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Item 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURES

This item is omitted since it is not applicable.

 

Item 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

United Bankshares, Inc. (the Company) maintains controls and procedures designed to ensure that it is able to collect the information it is required to disclose in the reports it files with the SEC, and to process, summarize and disclose this information within the time periods specified in the rules of the SEC. Based on an evaluation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report conducted by the Company’s management, with the participation of the Chief Executive and Chief Financial Officer, the Chief Executive and Chief Financial Officer believe that these controls and procedures are effective to ensure that the Company is able to collect, process and disclose the information it is required to disclose in the reports it files with the SEC within the required time periods.

Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

Management’s Report on internal control over financial reporting and the audit report of Ernst & Young LLP, the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, on internal control over financial reporting is included on pages 49-50 of this report and are incorporated in this Item 9A by reference.

Changes In Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There have not been any changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act) during the fiscal quarter ended December 31, 2009 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

Item 9B. OTHER INFORMATION

None

 

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UNITED BANKSHARES, INC.

FORM 10-K, PART III

 

Item 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Information regarding directors and executive officers of the registrant including their reporting compliance under Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is incorporated by reference from United’s definitive proxy statement for the 2010 Annual Meeting of Shareholders under the caption “Directors Whose Terms Expire in 2010 and Nominees for Directors” under the heading “PROPOSAL 1: ELECTION OF DIRECTORS”, under the caption “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” under the heading “COMMON STOCK OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT” and under the captions “Executive Officers” and “Family Relationships” under the heading “GOVERNANCE OF THE COMPANY.”

United has adopted a code of ethics for its Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Controller and persons performing similar functions of the registrant in accordance with Section 406 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. A copy of the code of ethics is posted on United’s web site at www.ubsi-inc.com.

Information related to the registrant’s audit committee and its financial expert in accordance with Section 407 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 is incorporated by reference from United’s definitive proxy statement for the 2010 Annual Meeting of Shareholders under the captions “The Audit Committee” and the “Audit Committee Financial Expert” under the heading “GOVERNANCE OF THE COMPANY.”

Since the disclosure of the procedures in the definitive proxy statement for the 2008 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, United has not adopted any changes to the procedures by which shareholders may recommend nominees to United’s Board of Directors as set forth in Article II, Section 5 of the Restated Bylaws of United.

 

Item 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

Information regarding executive compensation is incorporated by reference from United’s definitive proxy statement for the 2010 Annual Meeting of Shareholders under the heading of “EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION”, under the heading “COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS (CD&A)”, and under the heading “REPORT OF THE COMPENSATION COMMITTEE ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION.”

 

Item 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

Information regarding security ownership of certain beneficial owners and management and securities authorized under equity compensation plans is incorporated by reference from United’s definitive proxy statement for the 2010 Annual Meeting of Shareholders under the caption “Directors Whose Terms Expire in 2010 and Nominees for Directors” under the heading “PROPOSAL 1: ELECTION OF DIRECTORS” and under the captions “Beneficial Ownership of Directors and Named Executive Officers”, “Principal Shareholders of United” and “Related Shareholder Matters” under the heading “COMMON STOCK OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT.”

 

Item 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

Information regarding certain relationships and related transactions is incorporated by reference from United’s definitive proxy statement for the 2010 Annual Meeting of Shareholders under the captions of “Related Party Transactions” and “Independence of Directors” under the heading “GOVERNANCE OF THE COMPANY.”

 

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Item 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES

Information regarding approval of audit and non-audit services by the Audit Committee as well as fees paid to auditors is incorporated by reference from United’s definitive proxy statement for the 2010 Annual Meeting of Shareholders under the captions “Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures” and “Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm Fees Information” under the heading “AUDIT COMMITTEE AND INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM.”

 

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UNITED BANKSHARES, INC.

FORM 10-K, PART IV

Item 15. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

 

(a) List of Documents Filed as Part of This Report:

 

  (1) Financial Statements

The financial statements listed below are filed as part of this report:

 

     Page References

Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

   49

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm On Effectiveness of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

   50

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

   51

Consolidated Balance Sheets

   52

Consolidated Statements of Income

   53

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity

   55

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

   56

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

   57

 

  (2) Financial Statement Schedules

United is not filing separate financial statement schedules because of the absence of conditions under which they are required or because the required information is included in the consolidated financial statements or notes thereto.

 

  (3) Exhibits Required by Item 601

Listing of Exhibits - See the Exhibits’ Index on page   105   of this Form 10-K.

 

(b) Exhibits — The exhibits to this Form 10-K begin on page   109  .

 

(c) Consolidated Financial Statement Schedules — All other schedules for which provision is made in the applicable accounting regulation of the Securities and Exchange Commission are not required under the related instructions or are inapplicable or pertain to items as to which the required disclosures have been made elsewhere in the financial statements and notes thereto, and therefore have been omitted.

All reports filed electronically by United with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including the annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, and current reports on Form 8-K, as well as any amendments to those reports, are accessible at no cost on United’s web site at ubsi-inc.com. These filings are also accessible on the SEC’s web site at www.sec.gov.

 

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UNITED BANKSHARES, INC.

FORM 10-K

INDEX TO EXHIBITS

 

Description

   S-K Item 601
Table Reference
   Sequential
Page
Number

Agreement and Plan of Reorganization with Premier Community Bankshares, Inc.

   (2)    (a)

Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws:

   (3)   

(a)    Restated and Amended Articles of Incorporation

      (b)

(b)    Bylaws

      (c)
Material Contracts    (10)   

(a)    Third Amended Employment Agreement for Richard M. Adams

      (d)

(b)    Second Amended and Restated Supplemental Retirement Agreement for Richard M. Adams

      (d)

(c)    Data processing contract with FISERV

      (e)(f)

(d)    Amended and Restated Change of Control Agreement for Steven E. Wilson, Richard M. Adams, Jr., James B. Hayhurst, Jr., James J. Consagra, Jr., and Joe L. Wilson

      (d)

(e)    Form of the Amendment and First Restatement of the United Bankshares, Inc. Supplemental Executive Retirement Agreement (Tier 1 SERP) for Steven E. Wilson, James B. Hayhurst, Jr., and Joe L. Wilson

      (d)

(f)     Form of the Amendment and First Restatement of the United Bankshares, Inc. Supplemental Executive Retirement Agreement (Tier 2 SERP) for Richard M. Adams, Jr., Executive Vice-President and James J. Consagra, Jr., Executive Vice-President

      (d)

(g)    Employment Agreement with J. Paul McNamara

      (g)

(h)    Amended and Restated Employment Agreement for Donald L. Unger

      (d)

(i)     Amendment and Restated Supplemental Executive Retirement Agreement: The Marathon Bank for Donald L. Unger

      (d)

 

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Description

   S-K Item 601
Table Reference
   Sequential
Page
Number

(j)     Amended and Restated Deferred Compensation Agreement for Donald L. Unger

      (d)

(k)    First Amendment to Life Insurance Endorsement Split Dollar Plan Management Agreement: The Marathon Bank for Donald L. Unger

      (d)

(l)     Independent Contractor Agreement for Donald L. Unger

      109

(m)   Summary of Compensation Paid to Named Executive Officers

      (i)

(n)    Summary of Compensation Paid to Directors

      (h)

(o)    Summary of Amendment to Richard M. Adams’ Employment Contract

      (i)

(p)    Second Amended and Restated United Bankshares, Inc. Non-Qualified Retirement and Savings Plan

      (d)

(q)    Amended and Restated United Bankshares, Inc. Management Stock Bonus Plan.

      (d)

(r)     United Bankshares, Inc., United Bank, Inc. and United Bank Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors

      (d)

(s)    United Bankshares, Inc., United Bank, Inc. and United Bank Rabbi Trust Agreement for Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors

      (d)

Statement Re: Computation of Ratios

   (12)    115

Subsidiaries of the Registrant

   (21)    116

Consent of Ernst & Young LLP

   (23)    118
Certification as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302(a) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 by Chief Executive Officer    (31.1)    119
Certification as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302(a) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 by Chief Financial Officer    (31.2)    120

 

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Description

   S-K Item 601
Table Reference
  Sequential
Page
Number
Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 by Chief Executive Officer    (32.1)   121
Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 by Chief Financial Officer    (32.2)   122

Footnotes

 

(a) Incorporated into this filing by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Form 8-K dated January 26, 2007 and filed January 29, 2007 for United Bankshares, Inc., File No. 01-13322.

 

(b) Incorporated into this filing by reference to a Current Report on Form 8-K dated December 23, 2008 and filed December 31, 2008 for United Bankshares, Inc., File No. 0-13322.

 

(c) Incorporated into this filing by reference to a Current Report on Form 8-K dated January 25, 2010 and filed January 29, 2010 for United Bankshares, Inc., File No. 0-13322.

 

(d) Incorporated into this filing by reference to a Current Report on Form 8-K dated November 24, 2008 and filed November 26, 2008 for United Bankshares, Inc., File No. 0-13322.

 

(e) Incorporated into this filing by reference to a Current Report on Form 8-K dated November 17, 2005 and filed November 23, 2005 for United Bankshares, Inc., File No. 0-13322.

 

(f) Incorporated into this filing by reference to a Current Report on Form 8-K dated December 30, 2005 and filed January 5, 2006 for United Bankshares, Inc., File No. 0-13322.

 

(g) Incorporated into this filing by reference to Part II of Form S-4 Registration Statement of United Bankshares, Inc., Registration No. 33-106890 filed July 9, 2003.

 

(h) Incorporated into this filing by reference to a Current Report on Form 8-K dated March 20, 2006 and filed March 23, 2006 for United Bankshares, Inc., File No. 0-13322.

 

(i) Incorporated into this filing by reference to a Current Report on Form 8-K dated January 25, 2010 and filed January 29, 2010 for United Bankshares, Inc., File No. 0-13322.

 

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Table of Contents

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.

 

UNITED BANKSHARES, INC.

(Registrant)

 

/s/    Richard M. Adams      

Chairman of the Board  

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

Signatures

  

Title

   Date

/s/    Richard M. Adams      

   Chairman of the Board, Director,    February 22, 2010
   and Chief Executive Officer   

/s/    Steven E. Wilson      

   Chief Financial Officer    February 22, 2010
   Chief Accounting Officer   

/s/    Robert G. Astorg      

   Director    February 22, 2010

/s/    J. Paul McNamara      

   Director    February 22, 2010

/s/    Theodore J. Georgelas      

   Director    February 22, 2010

/s/    Gary G. White      

   Director    February 22, 2010

/s/    John M. McMahon      

   Director    February 22, 2010

/s/    W. Gaston Caperton, III      

   Director    February 22, 2010

/s/    William C. Pitt, III      

   Director    February 22, 2010

/s/    P. Clinton Winter, Jr.      

   Director    February 22, 2010

/s/    Donald L. Unger      

   Director    February 22, 2010

/s/    Lawrence K. Doll      

   Director    February 22, 2010

/s/    Mary K. Weddle      

   Director    February 22, 2010

/s/    F. T. Graff, Jr.      

   Director    February 22, 2010

 

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