MERCHANTS BANCSHARES INC - FORM 10-Q

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EX-32.2 - EX-32.2 - MERCHANTS BANCSHARES INC	mbvt-20150331xex322.htm
EX-32.1 - EX-32.1 - MERCHANTS BANCSHARES INC	mbvt-20150331xex321.htm
EX-31.1 - EX-31.1 - MERCHANTS BANCSHARES INC	mbvt-20150331xex311.htm
EX-31.2 - EX-31.2 - MERCHANTS BANCSHARES INC	mbvt-20150331xex312.htm
EX-10.2 - EX-10.2 - MERCHANTS BANCSHARES INC	mbvt-20150331ex102cedd6d.htm
EX-10.1 - EX-10.1 - MERCHANTS BANCSHARES INC	mbvt-20150331ex1013752f7.htm
EXCEL - IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT - MERCHANTS BANCSHARES INC	Financial_Report.xls

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

[ X ] QUARTERLY REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934



For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2015

[ ] 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: 0-11595

Merchants Bancshares, Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware			03-0287342
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)			(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

275 Kennedy Drive, South Burlington, VT			05403
(Address of principal executive offices)			(Zip Code)

802-658-3400
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Not Applicable
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)

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. [ X ] Yes [ ] No

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). [X] Yes[ ] No

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

Large Accelerated Filer [ ]Accelerated Filer [ X ]Nonaccelerated Filer [ ] Smaller Reporting Company [ ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined by Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

[ ] Yes [ X ] No

As of April 29, 2015, there were 6,330,635 shares of the registrant’s common stock, par value $0.01 per share, outstanding.

MERCHANTS BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

FORM 10-Q

TABLE OF CONTENTS



PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION		Page Reference
Item 1	Financial Statements

	Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited)
	As of March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014	3

	Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited)
	Three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014	4

	Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited)
	Three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014	5

	Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)
	Three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014	6

	Notes to Interim Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements	7

Item 2	Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	29
Item 3	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk	41
Item 4	Controls and Procedures	43

PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1	Legal Proceedings	44
Item 1A	Risk Factors	44
Item 2	Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds	44
Item 3	Defaults Upon Senior Securities	44
Item 4	Mine Safety Disclosure	44
Item 5	Other Information	44
Item 6	Exhibits	44
Item 10	Exhibits	44
	Signatures	45

ITEM 1 – FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

Merchants Bancshares, Inc.

Consolidated Balance Sheets

(Unaudited)


	March 31,		December 31,
(In thousands except share and per share data)	2015		2014
ASSETS
Cash and due from banks	$	25,627	$	23,745
Interest earning deposits with banks and other short-term investments		42,292		130,714
Total cash and cash equivalents		67,919		154,459
Investments:
Securities available for sale, at fair value		248,987		203,473
Securities held to maturity (fair value of $136,237 and $139,171)		134,245		138,421
Total investments		383,232		341,894
Loans		1,200,170		1,182,334
Less: Allowance for loan losses		11,989		11,833
Net loans		1,188,181		1,170,501
Federal Home Loan Bank stock		4,378		4,378
Bank premises and equipment, net		15,581		15,492
Investment in real estate limited partnerships		5,470		5,196
Bank owned life insurance		10,372		10,311
Other assets		19,852		21,233
Total assets	$	1,694,985	$	1,723,464
LIABILITIES
Deposits:
Demand (noninterest bearing)	$	583,486	$	566,366
Savings, interest bearing checking and money market accounts		541,878		530,722
Time deposits		204,433		211,684
Total deposits		1,329,797		1,308,772
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase		206,386		258,464
Other long-term debt		2,300		2,320
Junior subordinated debentures issued to unconsolidated subsidiary trust		20,619		20,619
Other liabilities		7,422		7,468
Total liabilities		1,566,524		1,597,643
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Preferred stock
Class A non-voting shares authorized - 200,000, none outstanding		-		-
Class B voting shares authorized - 1,500,000, none outstanding		-		-
Common stock, $.01 par value		67		67
Common stock, $.01 par value
Authorized: 10,000,000 shares; Issued: 6,651,760 at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014
Capital in excess of par value		37,407		37,404
Retained earnings		102,261		100,697
Treasury stock, at cost: 322,942 shares at March 31, 2015 and 324,534 shares at December 31, 2014		(13,431)		(13,865)
Deferred compensation arrangements: 285,832 shares at March 31, 2015 and 308,670 shares at December 31, 2014		6,210		6,566
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income		(4,053)		(5,048)
Total shareholders' equity		128,461		125,821
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$	1,694,985	$	1,723,464

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements

Merchants Bancshares, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Income

(Unaudited)



	Three Months Ended
	March 31,
(In thousands except per share data)	2015		2014
INTEREST AND DIVIDEND INCOME
Interest and fees on loans	$	10,623	$	10,762
Investment income:
Interest and dividends on investment securities		1,910		2,214
Interest on interest earning deposits with banks and other short-term investments		73		39
Total interest and dividend income		12,606		13,015
INTEREST EXPENSE
Savings, interest bearing checking and money market accounts		367		430
Time deposits		334		472
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase and other short-term debt		155		92
Long-term debt		197		197
Total interest expense		1,053		1,191
Net interest income		11,553		11,824
Provision for credit losses		0		100
Net interest income after provision for credit losses		11,553		11,724
NONINTEREST INCOME
Net gains on investment securities		0		126
Trust division income		895		852
Service charges on deposits		786		944
Net debit card income		693		621
Other		296		367
Total noninterest income		2,670		2,910
NONINTEREST EXPENSE
Compensation and benefits		5,048		4,923
Occupancy expense		1,143		1,168
Equipment expense		766		972
Legal and professional fees		442		638
Marketing		152		243
State franchise taxes		286		377
FDIC insurance		218		216
Conversion costs		0		171
Other Real Estate Owned ("OREO") expenses		17		16
Other		1,935		1,430
Total noninterest expense		10,007		10,154
Income before provision for income taxes		4,216		4,480
Provision for income taxes		880		1,077
NET INCOME	$	3,336	$	3,403

Basic earnings per common share	$	0.53	$	0.54
Diluted earnings per common share	$	0.53	$	0.54

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements

Merchants Bancshares, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

(Unaudited)


	Three Months Ended
	March 31,
(In thousands)	2015		2014
Net income	$	3,336	$	3,403
Other comprehensive income, net of tax:
Unrealized holding gain on securities available for sale, net of taxes of $422 and $422		783		784
Unrealized holding gain arising during the period for securities transferred from available for sale to held to maturity, net of taxes of $0 and $4		0		8
Amortization of unrealized holding losses of securities transferred from available for sale to held to maturity, net of taxes of $67 and $61		124		113
Reclassification adjustments for net securities gains included in net income, net of taxes of $0 and $(44)		0		(82)
Change in net unrealized loss on interest rate swaps, net of taxes of $11 and $22		21		41
Pension liability adjustment, net of taxes of $36 and $11		67		21
Other comprehensive income		995		885
Comprehensive income	$	4,331	$	4,288

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements

Merchants Bancshares, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(Unaudited)


	Three Months Ended March 31,
(In thousands)	2015		2014
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income	$	3,336	$	3,403
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Provision for loan losses		-		100
Depreciation and amortization		523		632
Amortization of investment security premiums and accretion of discounts, net		252		136
Stock based compensation		33		46
Net gain on sales of investment securities		-		(126)
Accretion of deferred gain on sale of premises		(129)		(129)
Gains on sale of other real estate owned		-		(12)
Equity in losses of real estate limited partnerships, net		282		327
Increase in cash surrender value of bank owned life insurance		(61)		(80)
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Net change in interest receivable		(360)		(335)
Net change in other assets		1,300		1,069
Net change in interest payable		(9)		(29)
Net change in other liabilities		356		(593)
Net cash provided by operating activities		5,523		4,409
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Proceeds from sales of investment securities available for sale		-		26,641
Proceeds from maturities of investment securities available for sale		10,284		9,556
Proceeds from maturities of investment securities held to maturity		4,295		3,195
Purchases of investment securities available for sale		(54,778)		(10,135)
Loan originations in excess of principal payments		(17,912)		(5,503)
Proceeds from sales of other real estate owned		-		36
Real estate limited partnership investments		(543)		(25)
Purchases of bank premises and equipment		(612)		(247)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities		(59,266)		23,518
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Net increase (decrease) in deposits		21,025		2,481
Net decrease in securities sold under agreement to repurchase, short-term		(52,078)		(67,667)
Principal payments on long-term debt		(20)		(21)
Cash dividends paid		(1,772)		(1,770)
Increase in deferred compensation arrangements		48		63
Net cash used in financing activities		(32,797)		(66,914)
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents		(86,540)	-	(38,987)
Cash and cash equivalents beginning of period		154,459		115,471
Cash and cash equivalents end of period	$	67,919	$	76,484

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Total interest payments	$	1,062	$	1,220
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF NON-CASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Distribution of stock under deferred compensation arrangements	$	515	$	553
Transfer of securities from available for sale to held to maturity		-		12,626

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements

Notes To Interim Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

For additional information, see the Merchants Bancshares, Inc. (“Merchants,” “we,” “us,” “our”) Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on March 13, 2014.

NOTE 1: FINANCIAL STATEMENT PRESENTATION

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited interim consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) for interim financial information and the instructions to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and notes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. All adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of our interim consolidated financial statements as of March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 and for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 have been included. The information was prepared from our unaudited financial statements and the unaudited financial statements of our subsidiaries, Merchants Bank and MBVT Statutory Trust I. Amounts reported for prior periods are reclassified, where necessary, to be consistent with the current period presentation.

Management’s Use of Estimates in Preparation of Financial Statements

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires Management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of income and expenses during the reporting periods. The most significant estimates include those used in determining the allowance for credit losses, income taxes, interest income recognition on loans and investments and analysis of other-than-temporary impairment of our investment securities portfolio. Operating results in the future may vary from the amounts derived from Management's estimates and assumptions.

NOTE 2: RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

There are no recent Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) pronouncements that are pertinent to Merchants Bancshares, Inc. since what was listed in the form 10-K.

NOTE 3: INVESTMENT SECURITIES

Investments in securities are classified as available for sale or held to maturity as of March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014. The amortized cost and fair values of the securities classified as available for sale and held to maturity as of March 31, 2015 are as follows:


		Gross	Gross
	Amortized	Unrealized	Unrealized	Fair
(In thousands)	Cost	Gains	Losses	Value
Available for Sale:
U.S. Treasury Obligations	$ 25,051	$ 271	$ -	$ 25,322
Federal Home Loan Bank ("FHLB") Obligations	10,119	19	4	10,134
Residential Real Estate Mortgage-backed Securities ("Agency MBSs")	113,454	2,977	84	116,347
Agency Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities ("Agency CMBSs")	25,080	19	243	24,856
Agency Collateralized Mortgage Obligations ("Agency CMOs")	71,423	613	92	71,944
Asset Backed Securities ("ABSs")	344	40	-	384
Total Available for Sale	$ 245,471	$ 3,939	$ 423	$ 248,987
		Gross	Gross
	Amortized	Unrecognized	Unrecognized	Fair
(In thousands)	Cost	Gains	Losses	Value
Held to Maturity:
U.S. Agency Obligations	$ 21,387	$ 672	$ -	22,059
U.S. Government Sponsored Enterprises ("U.S. GSEs")	9,512	195	-	9,707
FHLB Obligations	4,730	176	-	4,906
Agency CMOs	90,760	817	115	91,462
Agency MBSs	7,856	247	-	8,103
Total Held to Maturity	$ 134,245	$ 2,107	$ 115	$ 136,237

The amortized cost and fair values of the securities classified as available for sale and held to maturity as of December 31, 2014 are as follows:


		Gross	Gross
	Amortized	Unrealized	Unrealized	Fair
(In thousands)	Cost	Gains	Losses	Value
Available for Sale:
U.S. Treasury Obligations	$ 25,048	$ 57	$ 12	$ 25,093
Agency MBSs	92,827	2,680	100	95,407
Agency CMBSs	22,056	20	372	21,704
Agency CMOs	60,880	241	239	60,882
ABSs	351	36	-	387
Total Available for Sale	$ 201,162	$ 3,034	$ 723	$ 203,473
		Gross	Gross
	Amortized	Unrecognized	Unrecognized	Fair
(In thousands)	Cost	Gains	Losses	Value
Held to Maturity:
U.S. Agency Obligations	$ 22,072	$ 597	$ -	$ 22,669
U.S. GSEs	9,498	59	-	9,557
FHLB Obligations	4,720	100	-	4,820
Agency CMOs	94,022	280	519	93,783
Agency MBSs	8,109	233	-	8,342
Total Held to Maturity	$ 138,421	$ 1,269	$ 519	$ 139,171

The contractual final maturity distribution of the debt securities classified as available for sale as of March 31, 2015, are as follows:


		After One	After Five
	Within	But Within	But Within	After Ten
(In thousands)	One Year	Five Years	Ten Years	Years	Total
Available for Sale (at fair value):
U.S. Treasury Obligations	$ -	$ 25,322	$ -	$ -	$ 25,322
FHLB Obligations	-	10,134	-	-	10,134
Agency MBSs	26	4,152	38,391	73,778	116,347
Agency CMBSs	2,291	13,313	5,087	4,165	24,856
Agency CMOs	-	-	2,133	69,811	71,944
ABSs	-	-	-	384	384
Total Available for Sale	$ 2,317	$ 52,921	$ 45,611	$ 148,138	$ 248,987
Available for Sale (at amortized cost):
U.S. Treasury Obligations	$ -	$ 25,051	$ -	$ -	$ 25,051
FHLB Obligations	-	10,119	-	-	10,119
Agency MBSs	26	4,014	37,592	71,822	113,454
Agency CMBSs	2,271	13,451	5,112	4,246	25,080
Agency CMOs	-	-	2,119	69,304	71,423
ABSs	-	-	-	344	344
Total Available for Sale	$ 2,297	$ 52,635	$ 44,823	$ 145,716	$ 245,471

The contractual final maturity distribution of the debt securities classified as held to maturity as of March 31 2015, are as follows:


		After One	After Five
	Within	But Within	But Within	After Ten
(In thousands)	One Year	Five Years	Ten Years	Years	Total
Held to Maturity (at fair value):
U.S. Agency Obligations	$ -	$ -	$ -	$ 22,059	$ 22,059
U.S. GSEs	-	-	9,707	-	9,707
FHLB Obligations	-	-	4,906	-	4,906
Agency CMOs	-	-	-	91,462	91,462
Agency MBSs	-	9	107	7,987	8,103
Total Held to Maturity	$ -	$ 9	$ 14,720	$ 121,508	$ 136,237
Held to Maturity (at amortized cost):
U.S. Agency Obligations	$ -	$ -	$ -	$ 21,387	$ 21,387
U.S. GSEs	-	-	9,512	-	9,512
FHLB Obligations	-	-	4,730	-	4,730
Agency CMOs	-	-	-	90,760	90,760
Agency MBSs	-	9	94	7,753	7,856
Total Held to Maturity	$ -	$ 9	$ 14,336	$ 119,900	$ 134,245

Actual maturities will differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have rights to call or prepay obligations. Maturities of Agency MBSs and Agency CMOs in the tables above are based on final contractual maturities.

The following table presents the proceeds, gross gains and gross losses on available for sale securities for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014.


(In thousands)	2015	2014
Proceeds	$ -	$ 26,641
Gross gains	-	225
Gross losses	-	(99)
Net gains	$ -	$ 126

Securities with a carrying amount of $305.84 million and $317.22 million at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively, were pledged to secure U.S. Treasury borrowings, public deposits, securities sold under agreements to repurchase, and for other purposes required by law.

Gross unrealized losses on investment securities and the fair value of the related securities, aggregated by investment category and length of time that individual securities have been in continuous unrealized loss position, at March 31, 2015 were as follows:


	Less Than 12 Months		12 Months or More		Total
	Fair		Fair		Fair
(In thousands)	Value	Loss	Value	Loss	Value	Loss
Available for Sale:
FHLB Obligations	$ 5,103	$ 4	$ -	$ -	$ 5,103	$ 4
Agency MBSs	17,239	84	-	-	17,239	84
Agency CMBSs	5,087	25	17,479	218	22,566	243
Agency CMOs	6,577	35	7,258	57	13,835	92
Total Available for Sale	$ 34,006	$ 148	$ 24,737	$ 275	$ 58,743	$ 423
Held to Maturity:
U.S. Agency Obligations	$ -	$ -	$ -	$ -	$ -	$ -
Agency CMOs	7,926	44	6,428	71	14,354	115
Agency MBSs	-	-	-	-	-	-
Total Held to Maturity	$ 7,926	$ 44	$ 6,428	$ 71	$ 14,354	$ 115


	Less Than 12 Months		12 Months or More		Total
	Fair		Fair		Fair
(In thousands)	Value	Loss	Value	Loss	Value	Loss
Available for Sale:
U.S. Treasury Obligations	$ 5,080	$ 12	$ -	$ -	$ 5,080	$ 12
Agency MBSs	7,893	23	10,763	77	18,656	100
Agency CMBSs	-	-	17,478	372	17,478	372
Agency CMOs	11,384	49	10,962	190	22,346	239
Total Available for Sale	$ 24,357	$ 84	$ 39,203	$ 639	$ 63,560	$ 723
Held to Maturity:
U.S. Agency Obligations	$ -	$ -	$ -	$ -	$ -	$ -
U.S. GSEs	-	-	-	-	-	-
FHLB Obligations	-	-	-	-	-	-
Agency CMOs	14,338	108	43,911	411	58,249	519
Agency MBSs	-	-	-	-	-	-
Total Held to Maturity	$ 14,338	$ 108	$ 43,911	$ 411	$ 58,249	$ 519

There were no securities classified as trading at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014.

Unrealized losses on investment securities result from the cost basis of the security being higher than its current fair value. These discrepancies generally occur because of changes in interest rates since the time of purchase, or because the credit quality of the issuer has deteriorated. We perform a quarterly analysis of each security in our portfolio to determine if impairment exists, and if it does, whether that impairment is other-than-temporary.

At March 31, 2015, all of our Agency MBSs and Agency CMOs held were issued by U.S. government-sponsored entities and agencies, primarily the Federal National Mortgage Association (“FNMA”) and Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp (“FHLMC”), institutions which the government has affirmed its commitment to support. Because the decline in fair value is attributable to changes in interest rates, and not credit quality, and because we do not have the intent to sell these securities and it is not likely that we will be required to sell the securities before their anticipated recovery, we do not consider these securities to be other-than-temporarily impaired at March 31, 2015.

We use external pricing services to obtain fair market values for our investment portfolio. We have obtained and reviewed the service providers’ pricing and reference data documentation. Evaluations are based on market data and vary by asset class and incorporate available trade, bid and other market information. Because many fixed income securities do not trade on a daily basis, the service provider’s evaluated pricing applications apply available information as applicable through processes such as benchmark curves, benchmarking of like securities, sector groupings, and matrix pricing, to prepare evaluations. In addition, model processes, such as the Option Adjusted Spread model are used to assess interest rate impact and develop prepayment scenarios, with inputs determined based on knowledge of the market. We periodically test the values provided to us by the pricing service by obtaining prices on all bonds from an alternative pricing source.

We do not intend to sell the investment securities that are in an unrealized loss position, and it is unlikely that we will be required to sell the investment securities before recovery of their amortized cost bases, which may be maturity. During the first quarter of 2014 and the third and fourth quarters of 2013, we transferred securities from available for sale to held to maturity. The unrealized holding loss at the time of transfer continues to be reported in accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax and is amortized over the remaining lives of the securities as an adjustment of the yield. The amortization of the unamortized holding loss reported in accumulated other comprehensive income will offset the effect on interest income of the discount for the transferred securities. The remaining unamortized balance of the losses for the securities transferred from available for sale to held to maturity during 2014 was $4.15 million, or $2.70 million, net of tax at March 31, 2015.

NOTE 4: LOANS AND THE ALLOWANCE FOR CREDIT LOSSES

The composition of our loan portfolio at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 was as follows:


(In thousands)		March 31, 2015		December 31, 2014
Commercial, financial and agricultural	$	195,782	$	177,597
Municipal loans		91,410		94,366
Real estate loans – residential		461,459		469,529
Real estate loans – commercial		419,500		412,447
Real estate loans – construction		28,512		23,858
Installment loans		3,454		4,504
All other loans		53		33
Total loans	$	1,200,170	$	1,182,334

We primarily originate residential real estate, commercial, commercial real estate, municipal obligations and installment loans to customers throughout the state of Vermont. There are no significant industry concentrations in the loan portfolio. Total loans in the table above included $702 thousand and $734 thousand of net deferred loan origination costs at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively. The aggregate amount of overdrawn deposit balances classified as loan balances was $219 thousand and $235 thousand at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively.

The following table reflects our loan loss experience and activity in the allowance for credit losses by portfolio segment for the three months ended March 31, 2015:


		Commercial,
		financial and				Real estate-		Real estate-		Real estate-
(In thousands)		agricultural		Municipal		residential		commercial		construction		Installment		All Other		Total
Allowance for credit losses:
Beginning balance	$	3,331	$	636	$	3,127	$	5,251	$	415	$	13	$	42	$	12,815
Charge-offs		(29)		-		(55)		-		-		(74)		-		(158)
Recoveries		25		-		3		1		-		53		-		82
Provision (credit)		41		(93)		35		(35)		23		71		(42)		-
Ending balance	$	3,368	$	543	$	3,110	$	5,217	$	438	$	63	$	-	$	12,739

The following table reflects our loan loss experience and activity in the allowance for credit losses by portfolio segment for the three months ended March 31, 2014:


		Commercial,
		financial and				Real estate-		Real estate-		Real estate-
(In thousands)		agricultural		Municipal		residential		commercial		construction		Installment		All Other		Total
Allowance for credit losses:
Beginning balance	$	3,354	$	768	$	3,081	$	5,085	$	512	$	18	$	10	$	12,828
Charge-offs		-		-		(2)		-		-		-		(20)		(22)
Recoveries		2		-		18		-		-		-		3		23
Provision (credit)		22		(75)		255		34		(152)		-		16		100
Ending balance	$	3,378	$	693	$	3,352	$	5,119	$	360	$	18	$	9	$	12,929

The allowance for credit losses consists of the allowance for loan losses and the reserve for undisbursed lines and letters of credit. The reserve for undisbursed lines and letters of credit is included in other liabilities on the balance sheet. The following presents the balance in the allowance for loan losses and the recorded investment in loans by portfolio segment based upon impairment method at March 31, 2015:


		Commercial,
		financial and				Real estate-		Real estate-		Real estate-
(In thousands)		agricultural		Municipal		residential		commercial		construction		Installment		All Other		Total
Allowance for credit losses:
Ending balance individually evaluated for impairment	$	68	$	-	$	110	$	-	$	-	$	-	$	-	$	178
Ending balance collectively evaluated for impairment		3,300		543		3,000		5,217		438		63		-		12,561
Totals	$	3,368	$	543	$	3,110	$	5,217	$	438	$	63	$	-	$	12,739
Financing receivables:
Ending balance individually evaluated for impairment	$	590	$	-	$	708	$	-	$	-	$	-	$	-	$	1,298
Ending balance collectively evaluated for impairment		195,192		91,410		460,751		419,500		28,512		3,454		53		1,198,872
Totals	$	195,782	$	91,410	$	461,459	$	419,500	$	28,512	$	3,454	$	53	$	1,200,170
Components:
Allowance for loan losses	$	2,859	$	530	$	3,024	$	5,149	$	364	$	63	$	-	$	11,989
Reserve for undisbursed lines of credit		509		13		86		68		74		-		-		750
Total allowance for credit losses	$	3,368	$	543	$	3,110	$	5,217	$	438	$	63	$	-	$	12,739

The following presents the balance in the allowance for loan losses and the recorded investment in loans by portfolio segment based upon impairment method at December 31, 2014:


		Commercial,
		financial and				Real estate-		Real estate-		Real estate-
(In thousands)		agricultural		Municipal		residential		commercial		construction		Installment		All Other		Total
Allowance for credit losses:
Ending balance individually evaluated for impairment	$	-	$	-	$	63	$	-	$	-	$	-	$	-	$	63
Ending balance collectively evaluated for impairment		3,331		636		3,064		5,251		415		13		42		12,752
Totals	$	3,331	$	636	$	3,127	$	5,251	$	415	$	13	$	42	$	12,815
Financing receivables:
Ending balance individually evaluated for impairment	$	134	$	-	$	657	$	-	$	-	$	-	$	-	$	791
Ending balance collectively evaluated for impairment		177,463		94,366		468,872		412,447		23,858		4,504		33		1,181,543
Totals	$	177,597	$	94,366	$	469,529	$	412,447	$	23,858	$	4,504	$	33	$	1,182,334
Components:
Allowance for loan losses	$	2,583	$	623	$	3,038	$	5,209	$	325	$	13	$	42	$	11,833
Reserve for undisbursed lines of credit		748		13		89		42		90		-		-		982
Total allowance for credit losses	$	3,331	$	636	$	3,127	$	5,251	$	415	$	13	$	42	$	12,815

The general component covers non-impaired loans and is based on historical loss experience adjusted for current factors. The historical loss experience is determined by portfolio segment and is based on the actual loss history experienced by us over the most recent 5 years. This actual loss experience is supplemented with other factors based on the risks present for each portfolio segment. These factors include consideration of the following: levels of and trends in delinquencies and impaired loans; levels of and trends in charge-offs and recoveries; trends in volume and terms of loans; effects of any changes in risk selection and underwriting standards; other changes in lending policies, procedures, and practices; experience, ability, and depth of lending management and other relevant staff; national and local economic trends and conditions; industry conditions; and effects of changes in credit concentrations. Due to the added risks associated with loans which are graded as pass-watch, special mention, and substandard that are not classified as impaired, an additional analysis is performed to determine whether an allowance is needed that is not fully captured by the historical loss experience. While historical loss experience by loan segment and migration of loans into higher risk classifications are considered, the following factors are also considered in determining the level of needed allowance on such loans: the historical loss rates of loans specifically classified as pass-watch, special mention, or substandard; and the trends in the collateral on the loans included within these classifications. This analysis created an additional $702 thousand at March 31, 2015 compared to $1.23 million at December 31, 2014 in needed allowance for loan loss.

The table below presents the recorded investment of loans, including nonaccrual and restructured loans, segregated by class, with delinquency aging as of March 31, 2015:


														91 Days or
		31-60		61-90		91 Days		Total						more past
		Days		Days		or More		Past						due and
(In thousands)		Past Due		Past Due		Past Due		Due		Current		Total		Accruing
Commercial, financial and agricultural	$	497	$	-	$	-	$	497	$	195,285	$	195,782	$	-
Municipal		-		-		-		-		91,410		91,410		-
Real estate-residential:
First mortgage		68		-		471		539		424,182		424,721		-
Second mortgage		16		17		79		112		36,626		36,738		-
Real estate-commercial:
Owner occupied		-		-		-		-		178,060		178,060		-
Non-owner occupied		143		-		-		143		241,297		241,440		-
Real estate-construction:
Residential		-		-		-		-		2,739		2,739		-
Commercial		-		-		-		-		25,773		25,773		-
Installment		2		-		-		2		3,452		3,454		-
Other		-		-		-		-		53		53		-
Total	$	726	$	17	$	550	$	1,293	$	1,198,877	$	1,200,170	$	-

Of the total past due loans in the aging table above, $1.07 million are non-performing of which $0 are restructured loans and $0 were greater than 91 days past due and accruing. There were $228 thousand past due performing loans at March 31, 2015.

The table below presents the recorded investment of loans, including nonaccrual and restructured loans, segregated by class, with delinquency aging as of December 31, 2014:


														91 Days or
		31-60		61-90		91 Days		Total						more past
		Days		Days		or More		Past						due and
(In thousands)		Past Due		Past Due		Past Due		Due		Current		Total		Accruing
Commercial, financial and agricultural	$	49	$	-	$	-	$	49	$	177,548	$	177,597	$	-
Municipal		-		-		-		-		94,366		94,366		-
Real estate-residential:
First mortgage		157		-		391		548		431,191		431,739		-
Second mortgage		33		-		79		112		37,678		37,790		-
Real estate-commercial:
Owner occupied		-		22		-		22		260,075		260,097		-
Non-owner occupied		202		-		-		202		152,148		152,350		-
Real estate-construction:
Residential		-		-		-		-		4,131		4,131		-
Commercial		-		-		-		-		19,727		19,727		-
Installment		-		-		-		-		4,504		4,504		-
Other		-		-		-		-		33		33		-
Total	$	441	$	22	$	470	$	933	$	1,181,401	$	1,182,334	$	-

Of the total past due loans in the aging table above, $519 thousand are non-performing, of which $0 are restructured loans and $0 are greater than 91 days past due and accruing. There were $414 thousand past due performing loans at December 31, 2014.

Impaired loans by class at March 31, 2015 and for the three months ended March 31, 2015 are as follows:


				Three Months Ended
				March 31, 2015
		Unpaid		Average
	Recorded	Principal	Related	Recorded
(In thousands)	Investment	Balance	Allowance	Investment
With no related allowance recorded
Commercial, financial and agricultural	$ 93	$ 96	$ -	$ 109
Real estate – residential:
First mortgage	154	283	-	147
Second mortgage	79	79	-	79
With related allowance recorded
Commercial, financial and agricultural	497	497	68	166
Real estate – residential:
First mortgage	458	458	93	439
Second mortgage	17	17	17	6
Real estate – commercial:
Owner occupied	-	-	-	-
Total
Commercial, financial and agricultural	590	593	68	275
Real estate – residential	708	837	110	671
Real estate – commercial	-	-	-	-
Total	$ 1,298	$ 1,430	$ 178	$ 946

Impaired loans by class at December 31, 2014 and for the three months ended March 31, 2014 are as follows:


				Three Months Ended
				March 31, 2014
		Unpaid		Average
	Recorded	Principal	Related	Recorded
(In thousands)	Investment	Balance	Allowance	Investment
With no related allowance recorded
Commercial, financial and agricultural	$ 134	$ 136	$ -	$ 34
Real estate – residential:
First mortgage	147	257	-	264
Second mortgage	79	79	-	174
Real estate – commercial:
Owner occupied	-	-	-	-
Installment	-	-	-	-
With related allowance recorded
Commercial, financial and agricultural	-	-	-	19
Real estate – residential:
First mortgage	431	432	63	164
Second mortgage	-	-	-	-
Real estate – commercial:
Owner occupied	-	-	-	162
Installment	-	-	-	-
Total
Commercial, financial and agricultural	134	136	-	53
Real estate – residential	657	768	63	602
Real estate – commercial	-	-	-	162
Total	$ 791	$ 904	$ 63	$ 817

Residential and commercial loans serviced for others at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 amounted to approximately $13.66 million and $13.53 million, respectively.

Nonperforming loans at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 are as follows:


(In thousands)		March 31, 2015		December 31, 2014
Nonaccrual loans	$	1,118	$	598
Loans greater than 90 days and accruing		-		-
Troubled debt restructurings ("TDRs")		180	$	193
Total nonperforming loans	$	1,298	$	791

Of the total TDRs in the table above, $58 thousand at March 31, 2015 and $63 thousand at December 31, 2014 are nonaccruing. We have reviewed all restructurings that occurred on or after January 1, 2015 for identification as TDRs. There were zero TDRs that were restructured during the three months ended March 31, 2015. We did not identify as a TDR any loan for which the allowance for credit losses had been measured under a general allowance for credit losses methodology.

TDRs represent balances where the existing loan was modified involving a concession in rate, term or payment amount due to the distressed financial condition of the borrower. All TDRs at March 31, 2015 continue to pay as agreed according to the modified terms and all but one of these loans is considered well-secured. At March 31, 2015, there were no commitments to lend additional funds to borrowers whose loans have been modified in a TDR. We had no commitments to lend additional funds to borrowers whose loans were in nonaccrual status or to borrowers whose loans were 91 days past due and still accruing at March 31, 2015. Interest income on restructured loans during the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 was insignificant.

Nonaccrual loans by class as of March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 are as follows:


(In thousands)		March 31, 2015		December 31, 2014
Commercial, financial and agricultural	$	551	$	88
Real estate - residential:
First mortgage		471		431
Second mortgage		96		79
Total nonaccruing non-TDR loans		1,118		598
Nonaccruing TDR’s
Commercial, financial and agricultural		4		5
Real estate – residential:
First mortgage		54		58
Real estate - commercial:
Owner occupied		-		-
Total nonaccrual loans including TDRs	$	1,176	$	661

Commercial Grading System

We use risk rating definitions for our commercial loan portfolios and certain residential loans which are generally consistent with regulatory and banking industry norms. Loans are assigned a credit quality grade which is based upon Management’s on going assessment of risk based upon an evaluation of the quantitative and qualitative aspects of each credit. This assessment is a dynamic process and risk ratings are adjusted as each borrower’s financial situation changes. This process is designed to provide timely recognition of a borrower’s financial condition and appropriately focus Management resources.

Pass rated loans exhibit acceptable risk to the bank in terms of financial capacity to repay the loan as well as possessing acceptable fallback repayment sources, typically collateral and personal guarantees. Pass rated commercial loan relationships with a total exposure of $1 million or greater are subject to a formal annual review process; additionally, Management reviews the risk rating at the time of any late payments, overdrafts or other sign of deterioration in the interim.

Loans rated Pass-Watch require more than usual attention and monitoring by the account officer, though not to the extent that a formal remediation plan is warranted. Borrowers can be rated Pass-Watch based upon a weakened capital structure, marginally adequate cash flow and/or collateral coverage or early-stage declining trends in operations or financial condition.

Loans rated Special Mention possess potential weakness that may expose the bank to some risk of loss in the future. These loans require more frequent monitoring and formal reporting to Management.

Substandard loans reflect well-defined weaknesses in the current repayment capacity, collateral or net worth of the borrower with the possibility of some loss to the bank if these weaknesses are not corrected. Action plans are required for these loans to address the inherent weakness in the credit and are formally reviewed.

Residential Real Estate and Consumer Loans

We do not use a grading system for our performing residential real estate and consumer loans. Credit quality for these loans is based on performance and payment status.

Below is a summary of loans by credit quality indicator as of March 31, 2015:


						Pass-		Special		Sub-
(In thousands)		Unrated		Pass		Watch		Mention		Standard		Total
Commercial, financial and agricultural	$	300	$	161,028	$	18,509	$	3,712	$	12,233	$	195,782
Municipal		32		81,858		7,631		1,889		-		91,410
Real estate – residential:
First mortgage		420,488		3,537		169		-		527		424,721
Second mortgage		36,721		-		-		-		17		36,738
Real estate – commercial:
Owner occupied		133		144,666		14,826		3,366		15,069		178,060
Non-owner occupied		199		216,536		22,299		660		1,746		241,440
Real estate – construction:
Residential		350		2,389				-		-		2,739
Commercial		150		23,690		37		-		1,896		25,773
Installment		3,454		-		-		-		-		3,454
All other loans		53		-		-		-		-		53
Total	$	461,880	$	633,704	$	63,471	$	9,627	$	31,488	$	1,200,170

Below is a summary of loans by credit quality indicator as of December 31, 2014:


						Pass-		Special		Sub-
(In thousands)		Unrated Residential and		Pass		Watch		Mention		Standard		Total
Commercial, financial and agricultural	$	352	$	143,813	$	21,563	$	3,942	$	7,927	$	177,597
Municipal		40		75,337		17,101		1,888		-		94,366
Real estate – residential:
First mortgage		428,073		3,046		170		-		450		431,739
Second mortgage		37,790		-		-		-		-		37,790
Real estate – commercial:
Owner occupied		187		220,651		18,708		1,378		19,173		260,097
Non-owner occupied		189		130,218		20,773		-		1,170		152,350
Real estate – construction:
Residential		288		3,843		-		-		-		4,131
Commercial		170		17,588		40		-		1,929		19,727
Installment		4,504		-		-		-		-		4,504
All other loans		33		-		-		-		-		33
Total	$	471,626	$	594,496	$	78,355	$	7,208	$	30,649	$	1,182,334

NOTE 5: FAIR VALUE

We record certain assets and liabilities at fair value. Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Fair value measurements are also utilized to determine the initial value of certain assets and liabilities, to perform impairment assessments, and for disclosure purposes. We use quoted market prices and observable inputs to the maximum extent possible when measuring fair value. In the absence of quoted market prices, various valuation techniques are utilized to measure fair value. When possible, observable market data for identical or similar financial instruments are used in the valuation. When market data is not available, fair value is determined using valuation models that incorporate Management’s estimates of the assumptions a market participant would use in pricing the asset or liability.

Our valuation methodologies may produce a fair value calculation that may not be indicative of net realizable value or reflective of future fair values. While Management believes our valuation methodologies are appropriate and consistent with other market participants, the use of different methodologies or assumptions to determine the fair value of certain financial instruments could result in a different estimate of fair value at the reporting date. Furthermore, the reported fair value amounts have not been comprehensively revalued since the presentation dates, and therefore, estimates of fair value after the balance sheet date may differ significantly from the amounts presented herein. A more detailed description of the valuation methodologies used for assets and liabilities measured at fair value, as well as the general classification of such instruments pursuant to the valuation hierarchy, is set forth below.

The fair value hierarchy prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurement) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements). The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are described below:

Level 1 - Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities.

Level 2 - Quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices in markets that are not active, or inputs that are observable, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability.

Level 3 - Prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable (i.e. supported by little or no market activity).

A financial instrument’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement.

The types of instruments valued based on quoted market prices in active markets include most U.S. government and agency securities, liquid mortgage products, active listed equities and most money market securities. Such instruments are generally classified within Level 1 or Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. We do not adjust the quoted price for such instruments.

The types of instruments valued based on quoted prices in markets that are not active, broker or dealer quotations, or alternative pricing sources with reasonable levels of price transparency include most investment-grade and high-yield corporate bonds; less liquid mortgage products, agency securities, listed equities, state, municipal and provincial obligations; and certain physical commodities. Such instruments are generally classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Level 3 is for positions that are not traded in active markets or are subject to transfer restrictions; valuations are adjusted to reflect illiquidity and/or non-transferability, and such adjustments are generally based on available market evidence. In the absence of such evidence, Management’s best estimate will be used. Management’s best estimate consists of both internal and external support on certain Level 3 investments. Subsequent to inception, Management only changes Level 3 inputs and assumptions when corroborated by evidence such as transactions in similar instruments, completed or pending third-party transactions in the underlying investment or comparable entities, subsequent rounds of financing, recapitalizations and other transactions across the capital structure, offerings in the equity or debt markets, and changes in financial ratios or cash flows.

Financial instruments on a recurring basis

The table below presents the balance of financial assets and liabilities at March 31, 2015 measured at fair value on a recurring basis:


		Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using
		Quoted Prices in	Significant
		Active Markets	Other	Significant
		for Identical	Observable	Unobservable
		Assets	Inputs	Inputs
(In thousands)	Total	(Level 1)	(Level 2)	(Level 3)
Assets
U.S. Treasury Obligations	$ 25,322	$ -	$ 25,322	$ -
FHLB Obligations	10,134		10,134
Agency MBSs	116,347	-	116,347	-
Agency CMBSs	24,856	-	24,856	-
Agency CMOs	71,944	-	71,944	-
ABSs	384	-	384	-
Interest rate swap agreements	936	-	936	-
Total assets	$ 249,923	$ -	$ 249,923	$ -
Liabilities
Interest rate swap agreements	1,383	-	1,383	-
Total liabilities	$ 1,383	$ -	$ 1,383	$ -

The table below presents the balance of financial assets and liabilities at December 31, 2014 measured at fair value on a recurring basis:


		Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using
		Quoted Prices in	Significant
		Active Markets	Other	Significant
		for Identical	Observable	Unobservable
		Assets	Inputs	Inputs
(In thousands)	Total	(Level 1)	(Level 2)	(Level 3)
Assets
U.S. Treasury Obligations	$ 25,093	$ -	$ 25,093	$ -
Agency MBSs	95,407	-	95,407	-
Agency CMBSs	21,704	-	21,704	-
Agency CMOs	60,882	-	60,882	-
ABSs	387	-	387	-
Interest rate swap agreements	618	-	618	-
Total assets	$ 204,091	$ -	$ 204,091	$ -
Liabilities
Interest rate swap agreements	1,096	-	1,096	-
Total liabilities	$ 1,096	$ -	$ 1,096	$ -

Investment securities are reported at fair value utilizing Level 2 inputs. The prices for these instruments are obtained through an independent pricing service or dealer market participant with whom we have historically transacted both purchases and sales of investment securities. Prices obtained from these sources include market quotations and matrix pricing. The fair value measurements consider observable data that may include dealer quotes, market spreads, cash flows, the U.S. Treasury yield curve, live trading levels, trade execution data, market consensus prepayment speeds, credit information and the bond’s terms and conditions, among other things. More information regarding our investment securities can be found in Note 3 to these consolidated financial statements.

The interest rate swaps are reported at their fair value utilizing Level 2 inputs from third parties. The fair value of our interest rate swaps are determined using prices obtained from a third party advisor. The fair value measurement of the interest rate swap is determined by netting the discounted future fixed cash payments and the discounted expected variable cash receipts. The variable cash receipts are based on the expectation of future interest rates derived from observed market interest rate curves.

There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014. There were no Level 3 assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis at March 31, 2015 or December 31, 2014.

Financial instruments on a non-recurring basis

Certain financial assets are also measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis; however, they were not material at March 31, 2015 or December 31, 2014. These financial assets include impaired loans and OREO.

The table below presents the balance of financial instruments by class at March 31, 2015 measured at fair value:


	Carrying
(In thousands)	Amount	Fair Value	Level 1	Level 2	Level 3
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 67,919	$ 67,919	$ 67,919	$ -	$ -
Securities available for sale	248,987	248,987	-	248,987	-
Securities held to maturity	134,245	136,237	-	136,237	-
FHLB stock	4,378	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Loans, net of allowance for loan losses	1,188,181	1,192,612	-	-	1,192,612
Interest rate swap agreement	936	936	-	936	-
Accrued interest receivable	4,147	4,147	4	932	3,211
Total assets	$ 1,648,793	$ 1,650,838	$ 67,923	$ 387,092	$ 1,195,823
Deposits	$ 1,329,797	$ 1,330,130	$ 1,125,364	$ 204,766	$ -
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase	206,386	206,364	-	206,364	-
Other long-term debt	2,300	2,284	-	2,284	-
Junior subordinated debentures issued to unconsolidated subsidiary trust	20,619	14,677	-	14,677	-
Interest rate swap agreement	1,383	1,383	-	1,383	-
Accrued interest payable	156	156	18	138	-
Total liabilities	$ 1,560,641	$ 1,554,994	$ 1,125,382	$ 429,612	$ -

The table below presents the balance of financial instruments by class at December 31, 2014 measured at fair value:


	Carrying
(In thousands)	Amount	Fair Value	Level 1	Level 2	Level 3
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 154,459	$ 154,459	$ 154,459	$ -	$ -
Securities available for sale	203,473	203,473	-	203,473	-
Securities held to maturity	138,421	139,171	-	139,171	-
FHLB stock	4,378	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Loans, net of allowance for loan losses	1,170,501	1,172,517	-	-	1,172,517
Interest rate swap agreement	618	618	-	618	-
Accrued interest receivable	3,787	3,787	-	847	2,940
Total assets	$ 1,675,637	$ 1,674,025	$ 154,459	$ 344,109	$ 1,175,457
Deposits	$ 1,308,772	$ 1,308,904	$ 1,097,088	$ 211,816	$ -
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase	258,464	258,438	-	258,438	-
Other long-term debt	2,320	2,277	-	2,277	-
Junior subordinated debentures issued to unconsolidated subsidiary trust	20,619	14,476	-	14,476	-
Interest rate swap agreement	1,096	1,096	-	1,096	-
Accrued interest payable	165	165	19	146	-
Total liabilities	$ 1,591,436	$ 1,585,356	$ 1,097,107	$ 488,249	$ -

The carrying amounts reported in the consolidated balance sheets for cash and cash equivalents, accrued interest receivable and accrued interest payable approximate fair value. It is not practical to determine the fair value of FHLB stock due to restrictions placed on its transferability.

The methodologies for other financial assets and financial liabilities are discussed below.

Loans - The fair value for loans is estimated using discounted cash flow analyses, using interest rates and spreads currently being offered for loans with similar terms to borrowers of similar credit quality resulting in a Level 3 classification. Impaired loans are valued at the lower of cost or fair value as described previously. The methods utilized to estimate the fair value of loans do not necessarily represent an exit price.

Deposits - The fair value of deposits with no stated maturity, which includes demand, savings, interest bearing checking and money market accounts, is equal to the amount payable on demand resulting in a Level 1 classification. The fair value of variable rate, fixed

term certificates of deposit also approximates the carrying amount reported in the consolidated balance sheets. The fair value of fixed rate and fixed term certificates of deposit is estimated using a discounted cash flow method which applies interest rates currently being offered for deposits of similar remaining maturities resulting in a Level 2 classification.

Debt - The fair value of debt is estimated using current market rates for borrowings of similar remaining maturity resulting in a Level 2 classification.

Commitments to Extend Credit and Standby Letters of Credit - The fair value of commitments to extend credit is estimated using the fees currently charged to enter into similar agreements, taking into account the remaining terms of the agreements and the present creditworthiness of the counterparties. For fixed rate loan commitments, fair value also considers the difference between current levels of interest rates and the committed rates. The fair value of financial standby letters of credit is based on fees currently charged for similar agreements or on the estimated cost to terminate them or otherwise settle the obligations with the counterparties. The fair value of commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit is approximately $41 thousand at March 31, 2015 and $47 thousand as of December 31, 2014, respectively.

Limitations ‑ Fair value estimates are made at a specific point in time based on relevant market information and information about the financial instruments. Because no market exists for a significant portion of the financial instruments, fair value estimates are based on judgments regarding future expected loss experience, current economic conditions, risk characteristics of various financial instruments, and other such factors.

These estimates do not reflect any premium or discount that could result from offering for sale at one time our entire holdings of a particular financial instrument. These estimates are subjective in nature and require considerable judgment to interpret market data. Accordingly, the estimates presented herein are not necessarily indicative of the amounts we could realize in a current market exchange, nor are they intended to represent the fair value of us as a whole. The use of different market assumptions and/or estimation methodologies may have a material effect on the estimated fair value amounts. The fair value estimates presented herein are based on pertinent information available to Management as of the respective balance sheet date. Although we are not aware of any factors that would significantly affect the estimated fair value amounts, such amounts have not been comprehensively revalued since the presentation dates, and therefore, estimates of fair value after the balance sheet date may differ significantly from the amounts presented herein.

Other significant assets, such as premises and equipment, other assets, and liabilities not defined as financial instruments, are not included in the above disclosures. Also, the fair value estimates for deposits do not include the benefit that results from the low-cost funding provided by the deposit liabilities compared to the cost of borrowing funds in the market.

NOTE 6: EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

Pension Plan

Prior to January 1995, we maintained a noncontributory defined benefit plan (the “Pension Plan”) covering all eligible employees. During 1995, the Pension Plan was curtailed. Accordingly, all accrued benefits were fully vested and no additional years of service or age will be accrued.

The following tables summarize the components of net periodic benefit cost and other changes in Pension Plan assets and benefit obligations recognized for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014:


(In thousands)	2015	2014
Interest cost	$ 112	$ 116
Expected return on plan assets	(264)	(265)
Service costs	13	10
Net loss amortization	103	32
Net periodic pension cost	$ (36)	$ (107)

We have no minimum required contribution for 2015.

Our Pension Investment Policy Statement sets forth the investment objectives and constraints of the Pension Plan. The purpose of the policy is to assist our Retirement Plan Committee in effectively supervising, monitoring, and evaluating the Pension Plan.

NOTE 7: EARNINGS PER SHARE

The following table presents reconciliations of the calculations of basic and diluted earnings per share for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014:


(In thousands except per share data)	2015	2014
Net income	$ 3,336	$ 3,403
Weighted average common shares outstanding	6,329	6,320
Dilutive effect of common stock equivalents	13	22
Weighted average common and common equivalent
shares outstanding	6,342	6,342
Basic earnings per common share	$ 0.53	$ 0.54
Diluted earnings per common share	$ 0.53	$ 0.54

Basic earnings per common share were computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014. The computation of diluted earnings per share includes the effect of assumed exercises of outstanding stock options. There were no anti-dilutive options outstanding for the three months ended March 31, 2015 or 2014.

NOTE 8: STOCK REPURCHASE PROGRAM

We extended our stock buyback program through January 2016. Under the program, which was originally adopted in January 2007, we may repurchase up to 200,000 shares of our common stock on the open market from time to time, and have purchased 143,475 shares at an average price per share of $23.00 since the program’s adoption. We did not repurchase any of our shares during 2014 or during the three months ended March 31, 2015, and do not expect to repurchase shares in the near future.

NOTE 9: COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Financial Instruments with Off-Balance Sheet Risk

We are a party to financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of our customers. These financial instruments primarily include commitments to extend credit and financial guarantees. Such instruments involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit and interest rate risk that are not recognized in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

Disclosures are required regarding liability-recognition for the fair value at issuance of certain guarantees. We do not issue any guarantees that would require liability-recognition or disclosure, other than our standby letters of credit. We have issued conditional commitments in the form of standby letters of credit to guarantee payment on behalf of a customer and guarantee the performance of a customer to a third party. Standby letters of credit generally arise in connection with lending relationships. The credit risk involved in issuing these instruments is essentially the same as that involved in extending loans to customers. Contingent obligations under standby letters of credit totaled approximately $5.74 million and $8.77 million at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively, and represent the maximum potential future payments we could be required to make. Typically, these instruments have terms of 12 months or less and expire unused; therefore, the total amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements. Each customer is evaluated individually for creditworthiness under the same underwriting standards used for commitments to extend credit and on-balance sheet instruments. Our policies governing loan collateral apply to standby letters of credit at the time of credit extension. Loan-to-value ratios are generally consistent with loan-to-value requirements for other commercial loans secured by similar types of collateral.

We may enter into commitments to sell loans, which involve market and interest rate risk. There were no such commitments at March 31, 2015 or December 31, 2014.

Legal Proceedings

We have been named as defendants in various legal proceedings arising from our normal business activities. Although the amount of any ultimate liability with respect to such proceedings cannot be determined, in the opinion of Management, based upon input from counsel on the outcome of such proceedings, any such liability will not have a material effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

NOTE 10: ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

The following tables present the changes in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) by component, net of tax, for the three months ending March 31, 2015 and 2014:


		Unrealized
		(Gains)
		Losses on
		Securities
	Unrealized	Transferred
	(Gains) Losses	From			Accumulated
	on Securities	Available-For-			Other
	Available-For-	Sale to Held-	Pension	Interest Rate	Comprehensive
(In thousands)	Sale	To-Maturity	Plan	Swaps	Income (Loss)
Beginning Balance December 31, 2014	$ 1,482	$ (2,824)	$ (3,395)	$ (311)	$ (5,048)
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	783	-	-	21	804
Transfer of securities from available-for-sale to held-to-maturity	-	-	-	-	-
Accretion of unrealized losses of securities transferred from available-for-sale to held-to-maturity recognized in other comprehensive income	-	124	-	-	124
Reclassification adjustments for (gains) losses reclassified into income	-	-	67	-	67
Net current period other comprehensive income	783	124	67	21	995
Balance March 31, 2015	$ 2,265	$ (2,700)	$ (3,328)	$ (290)	$ (4,053)



		Unrealized
		(Gains)
		Losses on
		Securities
	Unrealized	Transferred
	(Gains) Losses	From			Accumulated
	on Securities	Available-For-			Other
	Available-For-	Sale to Held-	Pension	Interest Rate	Comprehensive
(In thousands)	Sale	To-Maturity	Plan	Swaps	Income (Loss)
Beginning Balance December 31, 2013	$ (162)	$ (3,296)	$ (1,790)	$ (472)	$ (5,720)
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	792	-	-	41	833
Transfer of securities from available-for-sale to held-to-maturity	(8)	8	-	-	-
Accretion of unrealized losses of securities transferred from available-for-sale to held-to-maturity recognized in other comprehensive income	-	113	-	-	113
Reclassification adjustments for (gains) losses reclassified into income	(82)	-	21	-	(61)
Net current period other comprehensive income	702	121	21	41	885
Balance March 31, 2014	$ 540	$ (3,175)	$ (1,769)	$ (431)	$ (4,835)

All amounts in the tables above are net of tax. Amounts in parentheses indicate debits.

Details of amounts reclassified from accumulated comprehensive income for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 are presented below based upon their impact on net income:


Details about Accumulated Other
Comprehensive Income Components	March 31,		March 31,		Affected Line Item in the Statement
(In thousands)	2015		2014		Where Net Income is Presented
Unrealized gains on securities	$	-	$	126	Net gains on investment securities
		-		126	Total before tax
		-		(44)	Provision for income taxes
	$	-	$	82	Net of tax

Amortization of actuarial loss for
defined benefit pension plan	$	(103)	$	(32)	Compensation and benefits
		(103)		(32)	Total before tax
		36		11	Provision for income taxes
	$	(67)	$	(21)	Net of tax

Total reclassification adjustments	$	(67)	$	61

NOTE 11: DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

At March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, we had an interest rate swap with a notional amount of $10 million that was designated as a cash flow hedge. The swap was used to convert a portion of the floating rate interest on our trust preferred issuance to a fixed rate of interest. Each quarter we assess the effectiveness of the hedging relationships by comparing the changes in cash flows of the derivative hedging instruments with the changes in cash flows of the designated hedged item. There was no ineffective portion recognized in earnings during the three months ended March 31, 2015 or March 31, 2014. The fair value of $(447) thousand and $(479) thousand was reflected in other comprehensive income in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively.

We entered into interest rate swaps with a notional amount of $39.0 million with certain of our commercial customers. In order to minimize our risk, these customer derivatives (pay floating/receive fixed swaps) have been offset with essentially matching interest rate swaps with our counterparty totaling $39.0 million (pay fixed/receive floating swaps). At March 31, 2015, the weighted average receive rate of these interest rate swaps was 1.86%, the weighted average pay rate was 3.64% and the weighted average maturity was 11.8 years. The fair values of $936 thousand and $936 thousand were reflected in other assets and other liabilities, respectively, in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets at March 31, 2015. The fair values of $618 thousand and $618 thousand were reflected in other assets and other liabilities, respectively, in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2014. Hedge accounting has not been applied for these derivatives. Because the terms of the swaps with our customer and the other financial institution offset each other, with the only difference being counterparty credit risk, changes in the fair value of the underlying derivative contracts are not materially different and do not significantly impact our results of operations.

We entered into interest rate swaps with notional amounts totaling $9.35 million at March 31, 2015, and $9.36 million at December 31, 2014, that were designated as fair value hedges of certain fixed rate loans with municipalities. At March 31, 2015, the weighted average receive rate of these interest rate swaps was 1.56%, the weighted average pay rate was 3.26% and the weighted average maturity was 17.3 years. The ineffective portion of the interest swaps was immaterial and as such, amounts are not recognized in earnings.

We assessed our counterparty risk at March 31, 2015 and determined any credit risk inherent in our derivative contracts was insignificant. Information about the fair value of derivative financial instruments can be found in Note 5 to these consolidated financial statements.

NOTE 12: SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

On April 27, 2015 Merchants Bancshares, Inc. (“Merchants”) announced the signing of a definitive agreement pursuant to which Merchants Bancshares, Inc. will acquire NUVO Bank & Trust Company (“NUVO) for approximately $21.8 million in stock and cash, which represents $7.15 per share.

Under the terms of the agreement, shareholders of NUVO will be entitled to elect to receive either 0.2416 shares of Merchants common stock or $7.15 in cash for each share of NUVO common stock outstanding, subject to total consideration being comprised of approximately 75% stock and 25% cash. Holders of NUVO common stock options will receive a cash payment for the difference between $7.15 and the exercise price of the option, while warrant holders of NUVO may either be cashed out in a similar fashion or receive an equivalent warrant to acquire Merchants stock. The merger price of $7.15 per share is equivalent to approximately 133% of NUVO’s tangible book value at December 31, 2014 and 51.9 times NUVO’s last twelve months’ earnings.

The agreement has been approved by both of the Boards of Directors of Merchants and NUVO. The closing is anticipated to occur during the fourth quarter of 2015, subject to approval by NUVO shareholders, receipt of required regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. Merchants expects the transaction to be accretive to its earnings in the first full year of combined operations.

For further information, reference is made to the Form 8-K filed by the Company with the SEC on April 27, 2015.

Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain statements contained in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q that are not historical facts may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and are intended to be covered by the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. These statements, which are based on certain assumptions and describe Merchants’ future plans, strategies and expectations, can generally be identified by the use of the words “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “would,” “plan,” “potential,” “estimate,” “project,” “believe,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “target” and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are based on the current assumptions and beliefs of management and are only expectations of future results. Our actual results could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of, among others, continued weakness in general, national, regional or local economic conditions, the performance of our investment portfolio, quality of credits or the overall demand for services; changes in loan default and charge-off rates which could affect the allowance for credit losses; declines in the equity and financial markets; reductions in deposit levels which could necessitate increased and/or higher cost borrowing to fund loans and investments; declines in mortgage loan refinancing, equity loan and line of credit activity which could reduce net interest and non-interest income; changes in the domestic interest rate environment and inflation; changes in the carrying value of investment securities and other assets; misalignment of our interest-bearing assets and liabilities; increases in loan repayment rates affecting interest income and the value of mortgage servicing rights; changing business, banking, or regulatory conditions or policies, or new legislation affecting the financial services industry that could lead to changes in the competitive balance among financial institutions, restrictions on bank activities, changes in costs (including deposit insurance premiums), increased regulatory scrutiny, declines in consumer confidence in depository institutions, or changes in the secondary market for bank loan and other products; and changes in accounting rules, federal and state laws, IRS regulations, and other regulations and policies governing financial holding companies and their subsidiaries which may impact our ability to take appropriate action to protect our financial interests in certain loan situations.

Investors should not place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements, and are cautioned that forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain. Actual performance and results of operations may differ materially from those projected or suggested in the forward-looking statements due to certain risks and uncertainties, which are included in more detail in our Annual Report on Form 10-K, as updated by our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other filings submitted to the Securities and Exchange Commission. We do not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect circumstances or events that occur after the date the forward-looking statements are made.

USE OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

Certain information in Item 2, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” contains financial information determined by methods other than in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). We use these “non-GAAP” measures in our analysis of our performance and believe that these non-GAAP financial measures provide a greater understanding of ongoing operations and enhance comparability of our results with prior periods and with the results of other financial institutions. These disclosures should not be viewed as a substitute for operating results determined in accordance with GAAP, nor are they necessarily comparable to non-GAAP performance measures that may be presented by other companies.

In several places net interest income is presented on a fully taxable equivalent basis. Specifically included in interest income is tax-exempt interest income from certain tax-exempt loans. An amount equal to the tax benefit derived from this tax exempt income is added back to the interest income total, to produce net interest income on a fully taxable equivalent basis. We believe the disclosure of taxable equivalent net interest income information improves the clarity of financial analysis, and is particularly useful to investors in understanding and evaluating the changes and trends in our results of operations. Other financial institutions commonly present net interest income on a taxable equivalent basis. This adjustment is considered helpful in the comparison of one financial institution’s net interest income to that of another, as each will have a different proportion of taxable exempt interest from its earning assets. Moreover, net interest income is a component of a second financial measure commonly used by financial institutions, net interest margin, which is the ratio of net interest income to average earning assets. For purposes of this measure as well, other financial institutions generally use taxable equivalent net interest income. We follow these practices. A reconciliation of taxable equivalent financial information to our consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP appears at the bottom of the table entitled “Distribution of Assets, Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity; Interest Rates and Net Interest Margin.” A 35.0% tax rate was used in both 2015 and 2014. An additional non-GAAP financial measure we use is the tangible capital ratio. Because we have no intangible assets, our tangible shareholder’s equity is the same as our shareholder’s equity.

GENERAL

The following discussion and analysis of financial condition as of March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 and results of operations of Merchants and its subsidiaries for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto and selected statistical information appearing elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. The financial condition and results of operations of Merchants essentially reflect the operations of its principal subsidiary, Merchants Bank.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Overview

We realized net income of $3.34 million, or diluted earnings per share of $0.53 for the three months ended March 31, 2015. This compares to net income of $3.40 million, or diluted earnings per share of $0.54 for the three months ended March 31, 2014. The return on average assets was 0.78% for the three months ended March 31, 2015, compared to 0.81% for the same period in 2014. The return on average equity was 10.56% for the three months ended March 31, 2015, compared to 11.31% for the same period in 2014. We declared a dividend of $0.28 per share, payable May 25, 2015 to shareholders of record as of May 11, 2015.

Shareholders’ equity ended the quarter at $128.46 million, and our book value per share increased to $20.30 per share at March 31, 2015 from $19.89 at December 31, 2014. Our capital ratios remain strong at March 31, 2015 with a Tier 1 leverage ratio of 8.95%, and total risk-based capital ratio of 17.17% and a tangible capital ratio of 7.58%.

Net interest income - Our taxable equivalent net interest income was $12.06 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015, compared to $12.36 million for the same period in 2014. Our taxable equivalent net interest margin was 2.95% for the three months ended March 31, 2015, compared to 3.10% for the same period in 2014.

Provision for Credit Losses – We did not book a provision for credit losses for the first quarter of 2015. Asset quality continues to be strong and net charge-offs were negligible.

Loans - Quarterly average loan balances for the first quarter of 2015 and 2014 were $1.19 billion and $1.17 billion, respectively, and ending loan balances were $1.20 billion and $1.17 billion at March 31, 2015 and March 31, 2014, respectively.

Deposits – Quarterly average deposits for the first quarter of 2015 were $1.33 billion and $1.32 billion for the same period of 2014. Ending deposit balances were $1.33 billion for the first quarter of 2015 and 2014.

Non-interest income - Total noninterest income decreased $240 thousand to $2.67 million for the first quarter of 2015 compared to the first quarter of 2014.

Non-interest expense – Total noninterest expense decreased $147 thousand to $10.01 million for the first quarter of 2015 compared to the same period in 2014.

Net Interest Income

As shown on the tables on pages 31 and 32, our taxable equivalent net interest income was $12.06 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015, compared to $12.36 million for the same period in 2014. Our taxable equivalent net interest margin was 2.95% for the quarter ended March 31, 2015, compared to 3.10% for the same period in 2014. The margin increased by two basis points during the first quarter of 2015 from the quarter ended December 31, 2014. We have continued to decrease balance sheet liquidity by deploying excess cash to assist in increasing asset yields. At the same time our loan yields have continued to compress due to a combination of the extended low interest rate environment, tighter credit spreads and competitive pressures.

The following tables present an analysis of net interest income and illustrate interest income earned and interest expense charged for each major component of interest earning assets and interest bearing liabilities. Yields/rates are computed on a fully taxable-equivalent basis, using a 35% tax rate. Nonaccrual loans are included in the average loan balance outstanding.



	Three Months Ended
	March 31, 2015			March 31, 2014
		Interest			Interest
	Average	Income/	Average	Average	Income/	Average
(In thousands, fully taxable equivalent)	Balance	Expense	Rate	Balance	Expense	Rate
ASSETS:
Loans, including fees on loans	$ 1,187,278	$ 11,127	3.80%	$ 1,167,067	$ 11,295	3.93%
Investments	366,059	1,910	2.12%	387,326	2,214	2.32%
Interest-earning deposits with banks and other short-term investments	102,394	73	0.29%	59,516	39	0.26%
Total interest earning assets	1,655,731	$ 13,110	3.21%	1,613,909	13,548	3.40%
Allowance for loan losses	(11,892)			(12,117)
Cash and due from banks	25,478			28,164
Bank premises and equipment, net	15,387			15,426
Bank owned life insurance	10,334			10,029
Other assets	23,271			22,996
Total assets	$ 1,718,309			$ 1,678,407

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:
Interest-bearing deposits:
Savings, interest bearing checking and money market accounts	$ 540,846	$ 367	0.28%	$ 759,068	$ 430	0.23%
Time deposits	207,849	334	0.65%	294,753	472	0.65%
Total interest bearing deposits	748,695	701	0.38%	1,053,821	902	0.35%
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase, short-term	230,113	155	0.27%	209,589	92	0.18%
Other long-term debt	2,307	12	2.11%	2,389	12	2.02%
Junior subordinated debentures issued to unconsolidated subsidiary trust	20,619	185	3.59%	20,619	185	3.60%
Total borrowed funds	253,039	352	0.57%	232,597	289	0.51%
Total interest bearing liabilities	1,001,734	$ 1,053	0.43%	1,286,418	$ 1,191	0.37%
Noninterest bearing deposits	582,573			263,120
Other liabilities	7,708			8,564
Shareholders' equity	126,294			120,305
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$ 1,718,309			$ 1,678,407

Net interest earning assets	$ 653,997			$ 327,491

Net interest income (fully taxable equivalent)		$ 12,057			$ 12,357
Tax equivalent adjustment		(504)			(533)
Net interest income		$ 11,553			$ 11,824

Net interest rate spread			2.78%			3.03%

Net interest margin			2.95%			3.10%

The following tables present the extent to which changes in interest rates and changes in the volume of earning assets and interest bearing liabilities have affected interest income and interest expense during the periods indicated. Information is presented in each category with respect to: (i) changes attributable to changes in volume (changes in volume multiplied by prior rate), (ii) changes attributable to changes in rate (changes in rate multiplied by prior volume) and (iii) changes in volume/rate (change in volume multiplied by change in rate).

Analysis of Changes in Fully Taxable Equivalent Net Interest Income


	Three Months Ended
	March 31,		Increase	Due to
(In thousands)	2015	2014	(Decrease)	Volume	Rate	Volume/Rate
Fully taxable equivalent interest income:
Loans	$ 11,127	$ 11,295	$ (168)	$ 196	$ (358)	$ (6)
Investments	1,910	2,214	(304)	(122)	(192)	10
Interest earning deposits with banks and other short-term investments	73	39	34	28	4	2
Total interest income	13,110	13,548	(438)	102	(546)	6
Less interest expense:
Savings, interest bearing checking and money market accounts	367	430	(63)	(123)	86	(26)
Time deposits	334	472	(138)	(139)	1	(0)
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase, short-term	155	92	63	9	49	5
Other long-term debt	12	12	-	-	1	(1)
Junior subordinated debentures issued to unconsolidated subsidiary trust	185	185	(0)	-	-	(0)
Total interest expense	1,053	1,191	(138)	(253)	137	(22)
Net interest income	$ 12,057	$ 12,357	$ (300)	$ 355	$ (683)	$ 28

Provision for Credit Losses

We did not record a provision for credit losses during the first quarter of 2015, compared to $100 thousand for the quarter ended March 31, 2014. Credit quality remained strong during the quarter. Our nonperforming loans were 0.11% of total loans at March 31, 2015, and loans past due 31-90 days were 0.06% of total loans at March 31, 2015. Net charge-offs during the first quarter of 2015 were $76 thousand. The required reserve calculation utilizing the reduced loss factors and updated qualitative factors resulted in an adequate unallocated reserve of $2.23 million with a zero first quarter 2015 provision. For a more detailed discussion of the Allowance and nonperforming assets, see “Credit Quality and Allowance for Credit Losses” beginning on page 4.

NONINTEREST INCOME AND EXPENSES

Noninterest income

Total noninterest income decreased $240 thousand to $2.67 million for the first quarter of 2015 compared to the first quarter of 2014. Excluding net gains on investment securities, total noninterest income decreased $114 thousand for the first quarter compared to the same period in 2014. Trust division income increased by $43 thousand for the three months ended March 31, 2015, compared to the same period in 2014 as trust division assets under management have continued to show strong growth and now total $659 million. Net debit card income increased $72 thousand for the three months ended March 31, 2015 compared to the same period in 2014, primarily due to reduced debit card processing expenses. Service charges on deposits decreased $158 thousand as we continue to experience pressure on our overdraft income.

Noninterest expense

Total noninterest expense decreased $147 thousand to $10.01 million for the first quarter of 2015 compared to the same period in 2014. We incurred $171 thousand in core conversion expenses during the three months ended March 31, 2014. Excluding core conversion expenses, total noninterest expenses increased $24 thousand for the three months ended March 31, 2015.

Compensation and benefits increased $125 thousand for the three months ended March 31, 2015, compared to the same period in 2014. The increase was a result of annual salary increases and higher incentive accruals based on strong loan production. Marketing expenses for the first quarter of 2015 were $91 thousand lower than the first quarter of 2014.

Income Taxes

Merchants Bancshares’ effective tax rate was 21% for the three months ended March 31, 2015, compared to 20% for the quarter ended December 31, 2014, and 24% for the three months ended March 31, 2014.

BALANCE SHEET ANALYSIS

Loans

Quarterly average loan balances for the first quarter of 2015 were $1.19 billion, $20.21 million higher than quarterly average balances for the first quarter of 2014, and $23.50 million higher than quarterly average balances for the fourth quarter of last year. Loan balances reflect steady loan growth activity.

The composition of our ending loan portfolio is shown in the following table as of the dates indicated:


(In thousands)		March 31, 2015		December 31, 2014		March 31, 2014
Commercial, financial and agricultural	$	195,782	$	177,597	$	190,840
Municipal loans		91,410		94,366		93,176
Real estate loans – residential		461,459		469,529		482,775
Real estate loans – commercial		419,500		412,447		372,155
Real estate loans – construction		28,512		23,858		27,567
Installment loans		3,454		4,504		4,993
All other loans		53		33		231
Total loans	$	1,200,170	$	1,182,334	$	1,171,737

Totals above are shown net of deferred loan fees of $702 thousand, $734 thousand, and $587 thousand for March 31, 2015, December 31, 2014, and March 31, 2014, respectively.

Ending loan balances at March 31, 2015 were $1.20 billion, an increase of $18 million over ending loan balances at December 31, 2014. Commercial and commercial real estate loan balances increased $18 million and $7 million respectively, due to a strong year end pipeline. Residential loans decreased $8 million due to short amortization portfolio and reduced refinance market opportunities.

Investments

The investment portfolio is used to generate interest income, manage liquidity and mitigate interest rate sensitivity. The average investment portfolio for the first quarter of 2015 was $366 million, a reduction of $21 million from average balances for the first quarter of 2014. The ending balance in the investment portfolio at March 31, 2015 was $383 million, compared to $365 million at March 31, 2014. The book balance of the portfolio at March 31, 2015 includes a $3.52 million net unrealized gain on the available for sale portion of the investment portfolio, compared to an unrealized gain of $2.31 million at December 31, 2014.

The composition of our investment portfolio as of March 31, 2015, including both available for sale and held to maturity securities, consisted of the following:


		Amortized		Fair
(In thousands)		Cost		Value
Available for Sale:
U.S. Treasury Obligations	$	25,051	$	25,322
Federal Home Loan Bank ("FHLB") Obligations		10,119		10,134
Residential Real Estate Mortgage-backed Securities ("Agency MBSs")		113,454		116,347
Agency Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities ("Agency CMBSs")		25,080		24,856
Agency Collateralized Mortgage Obligations ("Agency CMOs")		71,423		71,944
Asset Backed Securities ("ABSs")		344		384
Total Available for Sale	$	245,471	$	248,987
Held to Maturity:
U.S. Agency Obligations	$	21,387	$	22,059
U.S. Government Sponsored Enterprises ("U.S. GSEs")		9,512		9,707
FHLB Obligations		4,730		4,906
Agency CMOs		90,760		91,462
Agency MBSs		7,856		8,103
Total Held to Maturity		134,245		136,237
Total Securities	$	379,716	$	385,224

Agency MBSs and Agency CMOs consist of pools of residential mortgages which are guaranteed by the FNMA, FHLMC, or Government National Mortgage Association (“GNMA”) with various origination dates and maturities. Agency CMBSs consist of bonds backed by commercial real estate which are guaranteed by FNMA.

Deposits and Other Liabilities

Quarterly average deposits for the first quarter of 2015 were $1.33 billion, a $14.33 million increase compared to quarterly average deposits for the first quarter of 2014. Growth in business demand deposits and retail money market categories has been partially offset by reduced time deposit balances. Ending securities sold under agreement to repurchase, which represent collateralized customer accounts, declined to $206 million at March 31, 2015 from $258 million at December 31, 2014 as a result of seasonal municipal cash flows; average balances were $21 million higher compared to the first quarter of 2014.

CREDIT QUALITY AND ALLOWANCE FOR CREDIT LOSSES

The United States economy continues to show improvement into 2015; however, high unemployment and foreclosure rates continue in certain parts of the country. Although Vermont, our primary market, has not been immune to this economic turmoil, the state has one of the lowest foreclosure rates in the country, home price depreciation has been muted, and the unemployment rate is lower than the national average.

Credit quality

Credit quality is a major strategic focus and strength of our company. Although we actively manage current nonperforming and classified loans, there is no assurance that we will not have increased levels of problem assets in the future. The pool of nonperforming loans is dynamic with accounts moving in and out of this category over time.

The following table summarizes our nonperforming loans and nonperforming assets as of the dates indicated:


(In thousands)		March 31, 2015		December 31, 2014		March 31, 2014
Nonaccrual loans	$	1,118	$	598	$	473
Loans past due 91 days or more and still accruing		-		-		79
Troubled debt restructurings ("TDR")		180		193		454
Total nonperforming loans ("NPL")		1,298		791		1,006
OREO		-		-		85
Total nonperforming assets ("NPA")	$	1,298	$	791	$	1,091

Non-performing loans at March 31, 2015 were $1.30 million, 0.11% of total loans. Of the $1.30 million in nonperforming loans in the table above, $590 thousand are commercial and commercial real estate loans and $708 thousand are residential mortgages and home equity loans.

We originate traditional mortgage and home equity products that are fully documented and underwritten. We take a proactive risk management approach by conducting periodic stress-testing of the existing residential loan portfolio and adjusting underwriting requirements, if necessary, based upon the results of the analysis. The assumptions used in the stress testing include: credit score migration; calculation of possible losses using conservative assumptions of market decline; review of life-of-loan delinquency levels relative to loan size and credit score; analysis of the portfolio by loan size, and distribution within the portfolio by loan-to-value ratios. Based upon the results of assessments of the residential loan portfolio, Management concluded that current reserve levels were adequate.

Our analysis indicates that, through a combination of estimated collateral value and, where needed, an appropriately allocated reserve, any additional loss exposure on current non-accruing loans is minimal.

TDRs represent balances where the existing loan was modified involving a concession in rate, term or payment amount due to the distressed financial condition of the borrower. At March 31, 2015, $58 thousand of TDRs were in nonaccrual status and $122 thousand were accruing interest.

Excluded from the nonperforming balances discussed above are loans that are 31 to 90 days past due, which are not necessarily considered classified or impaired. Accruing loans 31 to 90 days past due as a percentage of total loans as of the periods indicated are presented in the following table:


Period Ended	31-90 Days
March 31, 2015	0.06%
December 31, 2014	0.04%
March 31, 2014	0.17%
December 31, 2013	0.03%

Loans, including impaired loans, are generally classified as nonaccrual if they are past due as to maturity or payment of principal or interest for a period of more than 90 days. If a loan or a portion of a loan is internally classified as impaired or is partially charged-off, the loan is generally classified as nonaccrual. Loans that are on a current payment status or past due less than 91 days may also be

classified as nonaccrual if repayment in full of principal and/or interest is in doubt. Income accruals are suspended on all nonaccruing loans, and all previously accrued and uncollected interest is charged against current income.

Loans may be returned to accrual status when there is a sustained period of repayment performance (generally a minimum of three months) by the borrower, in accordance with the contractual terms of the loans and all principal and interest amounts contractually due, including arrearages, are reasonably assured of repayment within an acceptable period of time.

While a loan is classified as nonaccrual and the future collectability of the recorded loan balance is uncertain, any payments received are generally applied to reduce the principal balance. When the future collectability of the recorded loan balance is expected, interest income may be recognized on a cash basis. In the case where a nonaccrual loan has been partially charged-off, recognition of interest on a cash basis is limited to that which would have been recognized on the recorded loan balance at the contractual interest rate. Interest collections in excess of that amount are recorded as a reduction of principal.

A loan remains in nonaccruing status until the factors which suggest doubtful collectability no longer exist, the loan is liquidated, or when the loan is determined to be uncollectible, and is charged off against the allowance for loan losses. In those cases where a nonaccruing loan is secured by real estate, we can, and may, initiate foreclosure proceedings. The result of such action will either be to cause repayment of the loan with the proceeds of a foreclosure sale or to give us possession of the collateral in order to manage a future resale of the real estate. Foreclosed property is recorded at the lower of its cost or estimated fair value, less any estimated costs to sell and is actively marketed. Any cost in excess of the estimated fair value on the transfer date is charged to the allowance for loan losses, while further declines in market values are recorded as OREO expense in the consolidated statements of income. Impaired loans, which primarily consist of non-accruing residential mortgage and commercial real estate loans and TDRs, totaled $1.30 million and $791 thousand at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively. At March 31, 2015, impaired loans with a recorded investment of $972 thousand had specific reserve allocations totaling $178 thousand while impaired loans with a total recorded investment of $326 thousand had no specific reserve allocation.

Substandard loans at March 31, 2015 totaled $31.49 million, of which $30.39 million in loans continue to accrue interest. Loans identified as substandard have well-defined weaknesses that, if not addressed, could result in a loss. These accruing substandard loans have generally continued to pay promptly and Management conducts regularly scheduled comprehensive reviews of the borrowers’ financial condition, payment performance, accrual status and collateral. These reviews also ensure that these troubled accounts are properly administered with a focus on loss mitigation and that any potential loss exposures are appropriately quantified, and reserved for. The findings of this review process are a key component in assessing the adequacy of our loan loss reserve.

Accruing substandard loans at March 31, 2015 reflect a $282 thousand increase in balances since December 31, 2014. At March 31, 2015, accruing substandard loans related to owner-occupied commercial and construction real estate totaled $16.96 million, investor commercial real estate loans totaled $1.54 million, residential mortgage loans totaled $2 thousand, residential investment real estate loans totaled $211 thousand, and $11.68 million in substandard loans are outstanding to corporate borrowers in a variety of different industries. Ten borrowers in a variety of industries account for 88% of the total accruing substandard loans, and approximately $522 thousand of the total accruing substandard loans carry some form of government guarantee.

To date, with very few exceptions, payments due from accruing substandard borrowers have been made as agreed and Management’s ongoing evaluation of these borrowers’ financial condition and collateral indicates a reasonable certainty that these exposures are adequately secured.

Management monitors asset quality closely and continuously performs detailed and extensive reviews on larger credits and problematic credits identified on the watched asset list, nonperforming asset listings and internal credit rating reports. In addition to frequent financial analysis and review of well-rated and adversely graded loans, Management incorporates active monitoring of key credit and non-credit risks for each customer, assessing risk through the daily reviews of overdrafts, delinquencies and usage of electronic banking products and tracking for timely receipt of all required financial statements.

Allowance for Credit Losses

The Allowance is made up of two components: the allowance for loan losses (“ALL”) and the reserve for undisbursed lines and letters of credit. The ALL is based on Management's estimate of the amount required to reflect the probable incurred losses in the loan portfolio, based on circumstances and conditions known at each reporting date. We review the adequacy of the ALL quarterly. Factors considered in evaluating the adequacy of the ALL include previous loss experience, the size and composition of the portfolio, risk rating composition, current economic and real estate market conditions and their effect on the borrowers, the performance of individual loans in relation to contractual terms and estimated fair values of properties that secure impaired loans.

The adequacy of the ALL is determined using a consistent, systematic methodology, consisting of a review of both specific reserves for loans identified as impaired and general reserves for the various loan portfolio classifications. When a loan is impaired, we determine its impairment loss by comparing the excess, if any, of the loan’s carrying amount over (1) the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s original effective interest rate, (2) the observable market price of the impaired loan, or (3) the fair value of the collateral securing a collateral-dependent loan. When a loan is deemed to have an impairment loss, the loan is either charged down to its estimated net realizable value, or a specific reserve is established as part of the overall allowance for loan losses if Management needs more time to evaluate all of the facts and circumstances relevant to that particular loan.

The general allowance for loan losses is a percentage-based reflection of historical loss experience adjusted for qualitative factors and assigns a required allocation by loan classification based on a fixed percentage of all outstanding loan balances. The general allowance

for loan losses employs a risk-rating model that grades loans based on their general characteristics of credit quality and relative risk. Appropriate reserve levels are estimated based on Management’s judgments regarding the historical loss experience, current economic trends, trends in the portfolio mix, volume and trends in delinquencies and non-accrual loans.

Losses are charged against the ALL when Management believes that the collectability of principal is doubtful. To the extent Management determines the level of anticipated losses in the portfolio has increased or decreased, the ALL is adjusted through current earnings. Overall, Management believes that the ALL is maintained at an adequate level, in light of historical and current factors, to reflect the level of credit risk in the loan portfolio. Loan loss experience and nonperforming asset data are presented and discussed in relation to their impact on the adequacy of the ALL.

The following table reflects our loan loss experience and activity in the Allowance for the periods indicated:


		Three Months		Twelve Months		Three Months
		Ended		Ended		Ended
(In thousands)		March 31, 2015		December 31, 2014		March 31, 2014
Average loans during the period	$	1,187,278	$	1,165,586	$	1,167,067
Allowance beginning of the year		12,815		12,828		12,828
Charge-offs:
Commercial, financial & agricultural		(29)		(34)		-
Real estate - residential		(55)		(25)		(2)
Real estate - commercial		-		-		-
Installment, Other		(74)		(172)		(20)
Total charge-offs		(158)		(231)		(22)
Recoveries:
Commercial, financial & agricultural		25		10		2
Real estate - residential		3		24		18
Real estate - commercial		1		1		-
Real estate - construction		-		-		-
Installment, Other		53		33		3
Total recoveries		82		68		23
Net recoveries (charge-offs)		(76)		(163)		1
Provision for credit losses		-		150		100
Allowance end of period	$	12,739	$	12,815	$	12,929
Ratio of net (charge-offs) recoveries to average loans outstanding (annualized)		(0.03)%		(0.01)%		(0.00)%

Components:
Allowance for loan losses	$	11,989	$	11,833	$	12,174
Reserve for undisbursed lines and letters of credit		750		982		755
Allowance for credit losses	$	12,739	$	12,815	$	12,929

The following table reflects our nonperforming asset and coverage ratios as of the dates indicated:


	March 31, 2015	December 31, 2014	March 31, 2014
NPL to total loans	0.11%	0.07%	0.09%
NPA to total assets	0.08%	0.05%	0.07%
Allowance for loan losses to total loans	1.00%	1.00%	1.04%
Allowance for loan losses to NPL	924%	1496%	1210%

We will continue to take all appropriate measures to restore nonperforming assets to performing status or otherwise liquidate these assets in an orderly fashion so as to maximize their value. There can be no assurances that we will be able to complete the disposition of nonperforming assets without incurring further losses.

Loan Portfolio Monitoring

Our Board of Directors grants each loan officer the authority to originate loans on our behalf, subject to certain limitations. The Board of Directors also establishes restrictions regarding the types of loans that may be granted and the distribution of loan types within our portfolio, and sets loan authority limits for each lender. These authorized lending limits are reviewed at least annually and are based upon the lender's experience. Loan requests that exceed a lender's authority require the signature of our Senior Lender, the Senior Credit Officer, and/or our President. With the exception of certain municipal loans, all extensions of credit of $5.0 million or greater to any one borrower, or related party interest, are reviewed and approved by the Loan Committee of Merchants Bank’s Board of Directors. Short-term revenue anticipation and tax anticipation extensions of credit of $8.0 million or greater to a municipality are reviewed and approved by the Loan Committee of Merchants Bank’s Board of Directors.

The Loan Committee and the credit department regularly monitor our loan portfolio. The entire loan portfolio, as well as individual loans, is reviewed for loan performance, compliance with internal policy requirements and banking regulations, creditworthiness, and strength of documentation. We monitor loan concentrations by individual borrowers, industries and loan types. As part of the annual credit policy review process, targets are set by loan type for the total portfolio. Credit risk ratings assessing inherent risk in individual loans are assigned to commercial loans at origination and are routinely reviewed by lenders and Management on a periodic basis according to total exposure and risk rating. These internal reviews assess the adequacy of all aspects of credit administration, additionally, we maintain an on-going active monitoring process of loan performance during the year. We have also hired external loan review firms to assist in monitoring the commercial, municipal and residential loan portfolios. The commercial loan review firm annually reviews, approximately 50% in dollar volume of our commercial loan portfolio and certain transactions based on amount and maturity date for our municipal loan portfolio. These comprehensive reviews assessed the accuracy of our risk rating system as well as the effectiveness of credit administration in managing overall credit risks.

All loan officers are required to service their loan portfolios and account relationships. Loan officers, a commercial workout officer, or collection personnel take remedial actions to assure full and timely payment of loan balances as necessary, with the supervision of the Senior Lender and the Senior Credit Officer.

Liquidity and Capital Resource Management

General

Liquid assets are maintained at levels considered adequate to meet our liquidity needs. Liquidity is adjusted as appropriate to meet asset and liability management objectives. Liquidity is monitored by the Asset and Liability Committee (“ALCO”) of Merchants Bank’s Board of Directors, based upon Merchants Bank’s policies. Our primary sources of liquidity are deposits, amortization and prepayment of loans, maturities of investment securities and other short-term investments, periodic principal repayments on mortgage-backed and other amortizing securities, advances from the FHLBB, and earnings and funds provided from operations. While scheduled principal repayments on loans are a relatively predictable source of funds, deposit flows and loan and investment prepayments are greatly influenced by market interest rates, economic conditions, and rates offered by our competition. Interest rates on deposits are priced to maintain a desired level of total deposits.

As of March 31, 2015, we could borrow up to $65 million in overnight funds through unsecured borrowing lines established with correspondent banks. We have established both overnight and longer term lines of credit with the FHLBB. FHLBB borrowings are secured by residential mortgage loans. The total amount of loans pledged to the FHLBB for both short- and long-term borrowing arrangements totaled $277.78 million at March 31, 2015. We have additional borrowing capacity with the FHLBB of $264.45 million as of March 31, 2015. We have also established a borrowing facility with the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (“FRB”) which will enable us to borrow at the discount window. Additionally, we have the ability to borrow through the use of repurchase agreements, collateralized by Agency MBSs and Agency CMOs, with certain approved counterparties. Our investment portfolio, which is managed by the ALCO, has a cost basis of $379.72 million at March 31, 2015, of which $302.65 million was pledged. The portfolio is a reliable source of cash flow for us. We closely monitor our short term cash position. Any excess funds are left on deposit at the FRB.

The following table presents information regarding our short-term borrowings as of the dates indicated:


		Three Months		Three Months
		Ended		Ended
(In thousands)		March 31, 2015		December 31, 2014
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase, short-term
Amount outstanding at end of period	$	206,386	$	258,464
Maximum during the period amount outstanding		254,732		292,692
Average amount outstanding		230,113		228,080
Weighted-average rate during the period		0.27%		0.19%
Weighted-average rate at period end		0.27%		0.26%

Commitments and Off-Balance Sheet Risk

We are a party to financial instruments with off‑balance sheet risk in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of our customers. These financial instruments primarily include commitments to extend credit and financial guarantees. Contingent obligations under standby letters of credit totaled approximately $5.74 million and $4.57 million at March 31, 2015 and March 31, 2014, respectively, and represent the maximum potential future payments we could be required to make. Typically, these instruments have terms of 12 months or less and expire unused; therefore, the total amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements. The fair value of our standby letters of credit at March 31, 2015 and 2014 was insignificant.

Capital Resources

We are subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by federal banking agencies. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements results in certain mandatory, and the possibility of additional discretionary, actions by regulators that could have a direct material effect on our financial statements. Under capital adequacy guidelines, we must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of our assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. It is the policy of the FRB that banks and bank holding companies should pay dividends only out of current earnings and only if, after paying such dividends, the bank or bank holding company would remain adequately capitalized. We are also subject to the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action that requires us to meet specific capital guidelines to be considered well capitalized. Our capital amounts and classification 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 us to maintain minimum ratios (set forth in the table below) of total and Tier 1 capital (as defined in the regulations) to risk-weighted assets (as defined) and of Tier 1 capital (as defined) to average assets (as defined). Management believes, as of March 31, 2015, that Merchants met all capital adequacy requirements to which it is subject.

As of March 31, 2015, the most recent notification from the FDIC categorized Merchants Bank as well capitalized under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action. There are no conditions or events since that notification that Management believes have changed Merchants Bank’s category. We continue to be considered well capitalized under current applicable regulations.

Under rules effective January 1, 2015, a bank holding company, such as the Company, is considered “well capitalized” if the bank holding company (i) has a total risk based capital ratio of at least 10%, (ii) has a Tier I risk-based capital ratio of at least 8%, and (iii) is not subject to any written agreement order, capital directive or prompt corrective action directive to meet and maintain a specific capital level for any capital measure. In addition, the FDIC has amended its prompt corrective action rules to reflect the revisions made by the new capital rules implementing Basel III. Under the FDIC’s revised rules, which became effective January 1, 2015, an FDIC supervised institution is considered “well capitalized” if it (i) has a total risk-based capital ratio of 10.0% or greater; (ii) a Tier I risk-based capital ratio of 8.0% or greater; (iii) a common Tier I equity ratio of at least 6.5% or greater, (iv) a leverage capital ratio of 5.0% or greater; and (iv) is not subject to any written agreement, order, capital directive, or prompt corrective action directive to meet and maintain a specific capital level for any capital measure. The final rule also requires unrealized gains and losses on certain “available-for-sale” securities holdings to be included for purposes of calculating regulatory capital requirements unless a one-time opt-out is exercised. The Bank elected to opt-out of this regulatory capital provision. By opting out of the provision, the bank retains what is known as the accumulated other comprehensive income filter. The rule limits a banking organization’s capital distributions and certain discretionary bonus payments if the banking organization does not hold a “capital conservation buffer” consisting of 2.5% of common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets in addition to the amount necessary to meet its minimum risk-based capital requirements.

The following table represents our actual capital ratios and capital adequacy requirements as of March 31, 2015.


					To Be Well-
					Capitalized Under
			For Capital		Prompt Corrective
	Actual		Adequacy Purposes		Action Provisions
(In thousands)	Amount	Percent	Amount	Percent	Amount	Percent
Merchants Bancshares, Inc.:
Tier 1 Leverage Capital	$ 153,515	8.95%	$ 68,641	4.00%	N/A	N/A
Tier 1 Risk-Based Capital	153,515	15.93%	57,836	6.00%	N/A	N/A
Total Risk-Based Capital	165,543	17.17%	77,115	8.00%	N/A	N/A
Common Equity Tier 1 Capital	133,515	13.85%	43,377	4.50%	N/A	N/A

Merchants Bank:
Tier 1 Leverage Capital	$ 150,097	8.72%	$ 68,845	4.00%	$ 86,056	5.00%
Tier 1 Risk-Based Capital	150,097	15.47%	58,196	6.00%	77,595	8.00%
Total Risk-Based Capital	162,124	16.71%	77,595	8.00%	96,994	10.00%
Common Equity Tier 1 Capital	150,097	15.47%	43,647	4.50%	63,046	6.50%

Capital amounts for Merchants Bancshares, Inc. include $20 million in trust preferred securities issued in December 2004. These hybrid securities qualify as regulatory capital up to certain regulatory limits.

ITEM 3 - QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

General

Our Management and Board of Directors are committed to sound risk management practices throughout the organization. We have developed and implemented a centralized risk management monitoring program. Risks associated with our business activities and products are identified and measured as to probability of occurrence and impact on us (low, moderate, or high), and the control or other activities in place to manage those risks are identified and assessed. Periodically, department-level and senior managers re-evaluate and report on the risk management processes for which they are responsible. This documented program provides Management with a comprehensive framework for monitoring our risk profile from a macro perspective; it also serves as a tool for assessing internal controls over financial reporting as required under the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act and the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

Liquidity Risk

Our liquidity is measured by our ability to raise cash when needed at a reasonable cost. We must be capable of meeting expected and unexpected obligations to customers at any time. Given the uncertain nature of customer demands as well as the need to maximize earnings, we must have available reasonably priced sources of funds that can be accessed quickly in time of need. As discussed previously under “Liquidity and Capital Resources,” we have several sources of readily available funds, including the ability to borrow using our loan and investment portfolios as collateral. We also monitor our liquidity in compliance with our Liquidity Contingency Plan.

Market Risk – Interest Rate Risk

Market risk is the risk of loss in a financial instrument arising from adverse changes in market rates or prices such as interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, commodity prices, and equity prices. Our primary market risk exposure is interest rate risk. An important component of our asset and liability management process is the ongoing monitoring and management of this risk, which is governed by established policies that are reviewed and approved annually by our Bank’s Board of Directors. Our investment policy details the types of securities that may be purchased, and establishes portfolio limits and maturity limits for the various sectors. Our investment policy also establishes specific investment quality limits. Our Bank’s Board of Directors has established a Board-level Asset and Liability Committee (“ALCO”), which delegates responsibility for carrying out the asset/liability management policies to the Management-level Asset and Liability Committee (“Management ALCO”). The Management ALCO, chaired by the Chief Financial Officer and composed of members of senior management, develops guidelines and strategies impacting our asset and liability management-related activities based upon estimated market risk sensitivity, policy limits and overall market interest rate levels and trends. The Management ALCO manages the investment portfolio. Our goal is to maximize net interest income while mitigating market and interest rate risk. We accomplish this through careful monitoring of the overall duration and average life of the portfolio, thorough analysis of securities we are considering for purchase, monitoring of individual securities, occasional repositioning of the investment portfolio, as well as selective sales of specific securities.

The Management ALCO is responsible for evaluating and managing the interest rate risk which arises naturally from imbalances in repricing, maturity and cash flow characteristics of our assets and liabilities. Techniques used by the Management ALCO take into consideration the cash flow and repricing attributes of balance sheet and off-balance sheet items and their relation to possible changes in interest rates. The Management ALCO manages interest rate exposure primarily by using on-balance sheet strategies, generally accomplished through the management of the duration, rate sensitivity and average lives of our various investments, and by extending or shortening maturities of borrowed funds, as well as carefully managing and monitoring the maturities and pricing of loans and deposits. The Management ALCO also considers the use of off-balance sheet strategies, such as interest rate caps and floors and interest rate swaps, to help minimize our exposure to changes in interest rates. By using derivative financial instruments to hedge exposures to changes in interest rates we expose ourselves to credit risk and market risk. Credit risk is the failure of the counterparty to perform under the terms of the derivative contract. When the fair value of a derivative contract is positive, the counterparty owes us, which creates credit risk for us. We minimize the credit risk in derivative instruments by entering into transactions only with high-quality counterparties and monitoring their financial condition. The market risk associated with interest rate contracts is managed by establishing and monitoring parameters that limit the types and degree of market risk that may be undertaken.

The ALCO is responsible for ensuring that our Bank’s Board of Directors receives accurate information regarding our interest rate risk position at least quarterly. The ALCO uses an outside consultant to perform rate shocks of our balance sheet, and to perform a variety of other analyses. The ALCO consultant meets with the Board and Management-level ALCOs on a quarterly basis. During these meetings, the ALCO consultant reviews our current position and discusses future strategies, as well as reviewing the result of rate shocks of our balance sheet and a variety of other analyses. The consultant’s most recent review was as of March 31, 2015. The consultant ran a base simulation assuming no changes in rates as well as a 200 basis point rising and, because rates are quite low, a 100 basis point falling interest rate scenario which assumes a parallel and pro rata shift of the yield curve over a one-year period, and no growth assumptions. The consultant also ran simulations in a 400 basis points rising scenario and a 200 and 500 basis point flattening scenario. Additionally, the consultant ran simulations with other changes in the yield curve and with prepayment speed changes. A summary of the results is as follows:

Current/Flat Rates: If rates remain at current levels net interest income is projected to trend downward for the entire simulation as asset yields will continue to decline while funding costs provide little to no relief.

Falling Rates: If rates fall 100 basis points, our net interest income is projected to trend in line with the base case over the first year as we bring funding costs down to near zero. Thereafter net interest income is reduced as increased prepayment speeds accelerate asset cash flow putting added pressure on asset yields, while deposit rate reductions are limited as they are at or near their floors.

Rising Rates: Higher rates are better for us under all scenarios. If rates rise in a parallel fashion net interest income rises above the base case immediately and continues to increase throughout the simulation as asset yields improve and outpace assumed funding costs increases. This asset sensitivity holds true even if the yield curve were to flatten as rates rise.

We have established a target range for the change in net interest income in year one of zero to 7.5%. The net interest income simulation as of March 31, 2015 showed that the change in net interest income for the next 12 months from our expected or “most likely” forecast was as follows:


Rate Change	Percent Change in Net Interest Income
Up 200 basis points	2.6%
Down 100 basis points	0.4%

The change in net interest income in the second year of the simulation shows a much more pronounced downward trend in the flat and down 100 basis points scenarios, the projected change is (3.9)% and (10.6)%, respectively, while the up 200 basis points simulation produces an increase of 7.5%. The degree to which this exposure materializes will depend, in part, on our ability to manage our balance sheet as interest rates rise or fall.

The preceding sensitivity analysis does not represent our forecast and should not be relied upon as being indicative of expected operating results. These estimates are based upon numerous assumptions including, among others, the nature and timing of interest rate levels including yield curve shape, prepayments on loans and securities, deposit run-off rates, pricing decisions on loans and deposits and reinvestment/replacement of asset and liability cash flows. While assumptions are developed based upon current economic and local market conditions, we cannot make any assurances as to the predictive nature of these assumptions including how customer preferences or competitor influences might change.

The model used to perform the base case balance sheet simulation assumes a parallel shift of the yield curve over twelve months and reprices every interest earning asset and interest bearing liability on our balance sheet. Prepayment assumptions for all residential mortgage products take into account prepayment assumptions most recently published by Applied Financial Technologies. Prepayment assumptions for commercial loan and commercial mortgage products are derived through an analysis of historical prepayment patterns combined with analysis of the current characteristics of the portfolio. Investment securities with call provisions are examined on an individual basis in each rate environment to estimate the likelihood of a call. The model uses product-specific assumptions for deposits which are subject to repricing based on current market conditions

The most significant ongoing factor affecting market risk exposure of net interest income during the quarter ended March 31, 2015 was the sustained low interest rate environment. Net interest income exposure is also significantly affected by the shape and level of the U.S. Government securities and interest rate swap yield curves, and changes in the size and composition of the loan, investment and deposit portfolios.

As market conditions vary from those assumed in the sensitivity analysis, actual results will likely differ due to: the varying impact of changes in the balances and mix of loans and deposits differing from those assumed, the impact of possible off balance sheet hedging strategies, and other internal/external variables. Furthermore, the sensitivity analysis does not reflect all actions that the ALCO might take in responding to or anticipating changes in interest rates.

Credit Risk

The Board of Directors reviews and approves our loan policy on an annual basis. Among other things, the loan policy establishes restrictions regarding the types of loans that may be granted, and the distribution of loan types within our portfolio. Our Board of Directors grants each loan officer the authority to originate loans on our behalf, subject to certain limitations. These authorized lending limits are reviewed at least annually and are based upon the lender’s experience. Loan requests that exceed a lender’s authority require the signature of our Credit Division Manager, Senior Loan Officer, and/or President. With the exception of certain municipal loans, all extensions of credit of $5.0 million or greater to any one borrower, or related party interest, are reviewed and approved by the Loan Committee of Merchants Bank’s Board of Directors. Short-term revenue anticipation and tax anticipation extensions of credit of $8.0 million or greater to a municipality are reviewed and approved by the Loan Committee of Merchants Bank’s Board of Directors. Our loan portfolio is continuously monitored for performance, creditworthiness and strength of documentation through the use of a variety of management reports and the assistance of an external loan review firm. Credit ratings are assigned to commercial loans and are routinely reviewed. Loan officers, under the supervision of the Senior Lender and Senior Credit Officer, take remedial actions to assure full and timely payment of loan balances when necessary. Our policy is to discontinue the accrual of interest on loans when scheduled payments become contractually more than 90 days past due and the ultimate collectability of principal or interest becomes doubtful. In certain instances the accrual of interest is discontinued prior to 91 days past due if Management determines that the borrower will not be able to continue making timely payments.

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

Our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, and other members of our senior management have evaluated our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report. Based on this evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded that the disclosure controls and procedures effectively ensure that information required to be disclosed in our filings and submissions with the SEC under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, is accumulated and communicated to our management (including the principal executive officer and principal financial officer), and is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified by the SEC. In addition, we have reviewed our internal control over financial reporting and there have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended March 31, 2015 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

MERCHANTS BANCSHARES, INC.

PART II – OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

None.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

In addition to the other information set forth in this report, please read the factors discussed in Part I – Item 1A, "Risk Factors" in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014 filed with the SEC on March 13, 2015, which could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and operating results. These risks are not the only ones facing us. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial also may materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and operating results.

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

None.

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

None.

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosure

Not applicable.

Item 5. Other Information

None.

Item 6. Exhibits

31.1* Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended

31.2* Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended

32.1** Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

32.2** Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

101** The following materials from Merchants Bancshares, Inc.’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2015 formatted in XBRL: (i) Consolidated Balance Sheets at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014; (ii) Consolidated Statements of Income for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014; (iii) Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014; (iv) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014; and (v) Notes to Interim Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements.

Item 10. Exhibits

10.1* + Employment Agreement by and between Merchants Bank and Marie A. Thresher, dated April 23, 2015.

10.2* + Employment Agreement by and between Merchants Bank and Molly Dillon, dated April 23, 2015.

+ Managed contract or compensatory plan or agreement

* Filed herewith

** Furnished herewith

MERCHANTS BANCSHARES, INC.

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements 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.

Merchants Bancshares, Inc.

/s/ Michael R. Tuttle

Michael R. Tuttle

President & Chief Executive Officer, Merchants

/s/ Thomas J. Meshako

Thomas J. Meshako

Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer

Principal Accounting Officer

May 6, 2015

Date

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MERCHANTS BANCSHARES INC Reports