STERLING BANCORP
Table of Contents

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)
[X] QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2001

or

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

For the transition period from                      to

Commission File Number: 1-5273-1

Sterling Bancorp


(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
     
New York   13-2565216

(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
  (I.R.S. Employer
Identification)
     
650 Fifth Avenue, New York, N.Y   10019-6108

(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)

212-757-3300


(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

N/A


(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

As of September 30, 2001 there were 9,313,518 shares of common stock,
$1.00 par value, outstanding.

 


TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements (Unaudited)
Consolidated Balance Sheets
Consolidated Statements of Income
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
BUSINESS
Results for the Three Months Ended September 30, 2001 and 2000
Results for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2001 and 2000
BALANCE SHEET ANALYSIS
CAPITAL
Average Balance Sheets [1]
Rate/Volume Analysis [1]
Regulatory Capital and Ratios
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
ASSET/LIABILITY MANAGEMENT
Interest Rate Sensitivity
PART II OTHER INFORMATION
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K
SIGNATURES
EXHIBIT INDEX
COMPUTATION OF PER SHARE EARNINGS


Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements (Unaudited)
Consolidated Balance Sheets
Consolidated Statements of Income
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
BUSINESS
Results for the Three Months Ended September 30, 2001 and 2000
Results for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2001 and 2000
BALANCE SHEET ANALYSIS
CAPITAL
Average Balance Sheets [1]
Rate/Volume Analysis [1]
Regulatory Capital and Ratios
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
ASSET/LIABILITY MANAGEMENT
Interest Rate Sensitivity
PART II OTHER INFORMATION
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K
SIGNATURES
EXHIBIT INDEX
COMPUTATION OF PER SHARE EARNINGS

STERLING BANCORP

         
        Page
       
PART I FINANCIAL INFORMATION
         
  Item 1. Financial Statements (Unaudited)    
         
    Consolidated Financial Statements   3
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements   8
  Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial    
    Condition and Results of Operations    
         
    Business   13
    Results for Three Months   13
    Results for Nine Months   15
    Balance Sheet Analysis   17
    Capital   21
    Average Balance Sheets   22
    Rate/Volume Analysis   24
    Regulatory Capital and Ratios   26
  Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk    
         
    Asset/Liability Management   27
    Interest Rate Sensitivity   30
PART II OTHER INFORMATION
         
  Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K   31
         
SIGNATURES   31
         
EXHIBIT INDEX
         
  Exhibit 11 Computation of Per Share Earnings   33

2


Table of Contents

STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Balance Sheets

                       
          September 30,   December 31,
          2001   2000
         
 
ASSETS
               
Cash and due from banks
  $ 47,844,395     $ 50,212,689  
Interest-bearing deposits with other banks
    4,211,014       2,656,678  
Federal funds sold
    5,000,000       --  
 Securities available for sale
    163,429,838       62,060,656  
Securities available for sale — pledged
    80,182,247       90,138,534  
Securities held to maturity
    134,332,469       104,585,942  
Securities held to maturity — pledged
    108,092,589       177,011,726  
 
   
     
 
     
Total investment securities
    486,037,143       433,796,858  
 
   
     
 
 Loans, net of unearned discounts
    783,514,765       750,887,822  
Less allowance for credit losses
    13,468,638       12,675,052  
 
   
     
 
     
Loans, net
    770,046,127       738,212,770  
 
   
     
 
Customers’ liability under acceptances
    1,333,420       987,048  
Excess cost over equity in net assets of the banking subsidiary
    21,158,440       21,158,440  
Premises and equipment, net
    7,232,186       5,469,462  
Other real estate
    673,056       647,994  
Accrued interest receivable
    6,067,389       5,195,956  
Other assets
    14,126,093       12,410,719  
 
   
     
 
 
  $ 1,363,729,263     $ 1,270,748,614  
 
   
     
 
 LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
               
 
               
Deposits
               
 
Noninterest-bearing deposits
  $ 323,610,618     $ 341,039,328  
 
Interest-bearing deposits
    677,202,411       525,242,856  
 
   
     
 
     
Total deposits
    1,000,813,029       866,282,184  
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase
    61,426,791       162,763,009  
Commercial paper
    35,284,700       25,655,020  
Other short-term borrowings
    9,031,295       17,733,482  
Acceptances outstanding
    1,333,420       987,048  
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
    84,017,007       69,611,777  
 
   
     
 
 
    1,191,906,242       1,143,032,520  
Long-term debt — FHLB
    40,350,000       10,700,000  
 
   
     
 
     
Total liabilities
    1,232,256,242       1,153,732,520  
 
   
     
 
 Commitments and contingent liabilities
               
 
 Shareholders’ equity
Preferred stock, $5 par value. Authorized 644,389 shares Series B, issued -0- and 1,199 shares, respectively
          23,980  
   
Series D, issued 235,179 and 237,878 shares, respectively
    2,351,790       2,378,780  
 
   
     
 
 
    2,351,790       2,402,760  
Common stock, $1 par value. Authorized 20,000,000 shares; issued 9,876,874 and 9,563,329 shares, respectively
    9,876,874       9,563,329  
Capital surplus
    70,979,605       67,450,110  
Retained earnings
    57,225,620       47,466,602  
Accumulated other comprehensive income(loss), net of tax
    2,998,849       (22,652 )
 
   
     
 
 
    143,432,738       126,860,149  
Less
               
 
Common shares in treasury at cost, 563,356 and 473,125 shares, respectively
    10,401,603       7,986,763  
 
Unearned compensation
    1,558,114       1,857,292  
 
   
     
 
     
Total shareholders’ equity
    131,473,021       117,016,094  
 
   
     
 
 
  $ 1,363,729,263     $ 1,270,748,614  
 
   
     
 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

3


Table of Contents

STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Income

                                       
          Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended
          September 30,   September 30,
         
 
          2001   2000   2001   2000
         
 
 
 
INTEREST INCOME
                               
 
Loans
  $ 16,327,504     $ 17,362,186     $ 50,342,902     $ 48,869,738  
 
Investment securities Available for sale
    3,232,726       2,409,409       8,843,426       7,246,480  
   
Held to maturity
    4,033,164       5,124,572       13,107,623       15,487,800  
 
Federal funds sold
    54,933       10,283       79,494       189,311  
 
Deposits with other banks
    28,296       25,966       86,224       84,829  
 
   
     
     
     
 
     
Total interest income
    23,676,623       24,932,416       72,459,669       71,878,158  
 
   
     
     
     
 
 INTEREST EXPENSE
                               
 
Deposits
    4,831,922       5,668,635       15,071,425       17,116,264  
 
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase
    547,627       2,588,850       3,680,591       6,206,974  
 
Commercial paper
    357,027       371,943       1,225,377       1,108,575  
 
Other short-term borrowings
    38,698       169,339       124,114       438,134  
 
Long-term debt
    466,803       107,224       1,228,443       409,658  
 
   
     
     
     
 
     
Total interest expense
    6,242,077       8,905,991       21,329,950       25,279,605  
 
   
     
     
     
 
Net interest income
    17,434,546       16,026,425       51,129,719       46,598,553  
Provision for credit losses
    2,017,800       1,478,600       5,231,400       4,518,200  
 
   
     
     
     
 
Net interest income after provision for credit losses
    15,416,746       14,547,825       45,898,319       42,080,353  
 
   
     
     
     
 
 NONINTEREST INCOME
                               
 
Factoring income
    1,371,780       1,391,732       4,086,996       3,782,349  
 
Mortgage banking income
    2,216,606       1,529,230       5,639,722       4,419,367  
 
Service charges on deposit accounts
    1,478,183       1,407,675       4,242,980       3,403,894  
 
Trade finance income
    646,189       631,627       1,943,501       2,083,158  
 
Trust fees
    171,178       171,282       556,797       523,140  
 
Other service charges and fees
    475,376       423,500       1,208,797       1,388,773  
 
Other income
    158,297       73,773       307,653       142,722  
 
   
     
     
     
 
     
Total noninterest income
    6,517,609       5,628,819       17,986,446       15,743,403  
 
   
     
     
     
 
 NONINTEREST EXPENSES
                               
 
Salaries and employee benefits
    7,072,561       7,086,680       20,944,900       20,797,782  
 
Occupancy expenses, net
    1,346,724       1,197,744       3,545,329       3,146,422  
 
Equipment expenses
    698,595       604,153       1,851,252       1,780,225  
 
Advertising and marketing
    670,824       528,833       2,425,167       1,861,036  
 
Professional fees
    1,351,293       1,037,658       3,956,745       3,342,511  
 
Data processing services
    328,329       254,229       1,001,480       883,912  
 
Other expenses
    2,053,432       1,937,099       6,332,760       5,148,785  
 
   
     
     
     
 
     
Total noninterest expenses
    13,521,758       12,646,396       40,057,633       36,960,673  
 
   
     
     
     
 
Income before income taxes
    8,412,597       7,530,248       23,827,132       20,863,083  
Provision for income taxes
    3,419,876       3,344,153       9,592,899       8,799,771  
 
   
     
     
     
 
Net income
  $ 4,992,721     $ 4,186,095     $ 14,234,233     $ 12,063,312  
 
   
     
     
     
 
 Average number of common shares outstanding
                               
 
Basic
    9,314,674       9,091,680       9,193,978       9,133,057  
 
Diluted
    9,957,938       9,401,626       9,732,346       9,373,581  
Per average common share
                               
 
Basic
  $ 0.53     $ 0.46     $ 1.54     $ 1.32  
 
Diluted
    0.50       0.45       1.46       1.28  
Dividends per common share
    0.16       0.14       0.48       0.42  

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

4


Table of Contents

STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

                                   
      Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended
      September 30,   September 30,
      2001   2000   2001   2000
 
   
     
     
     
 
Net Income
  $ 4,992,721     $ 4,186,095     $ 14,234,233     $ 12,063,312  
 Other comprehensive income, net of tax:
                               
 
Unrealized holding gains arising during the period
    2,280,244       915,857       3,021,501       1,205,081  
 
   
     
     
     
 
 
                               
Comprehensive income
  $ 7,272,965     $ 5,101,952     $ 17,255,734     $ 13,268,393  
 
   
     
     
     
 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

5


Table of Contents

STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity

                         
            Nine Months Ended
            September 30,
            2001   2000
 
   
     
 
Preferred Stock
               
 
Balance at January 1
  $ 2,402,760     $ 2,443,430  
 
Conversions of Series B shares
    (2,460 )     --  
 
Redemption of Series B shares
    (21,520 )     --  
 
Conversions of Series D shares
    (26,990 )     (29,220 )
 
   
     
 
 
Balance at September 30
  $ 2,351,790     $ 2,414,210  
 
   
     
 
 Common Stock
               
 
Balance at January 1
  $ 9,563,329     $ 8,723,051  
 
Conversions of preferred shares into common shares
    3,390       2,922  
 
Options exercised
    310,155       9,000  
 
   
     
 
 
Balance at September 30
  $ 9,876,874     $ 8,734,973  
 
   
     
 
 Capital Surplus
               
 
Balance at January 1
  $ 67,450,110     $ 51,911,883  
 
Conversions of preferred shares into common shares
    26,064       26,298  
 
Redemption of Series B shares
    (8,612 )     --  
 
Issuance of shares under incentive compensation plan
          (214,369 )
 
Options exercised
    3,512,043       68,421  
 
   
     
 
 
Balance at September 30
  $ 70,979,605     $ 51,792,233  
 
   
     
 
 Retained Earnings
               
 
Balance at January 1
  $ 47,466,602     $ 52,360,024  
 
Net Income
    14,234,233       12,063,312  
 
Cash dividends paid — common shares
    (4,401,484 )     (3,454,897 )
       
                            — preferred shares
    (73,731 )     (62,067 )
 
   
     
 
 
Balance at September 30
  $ 57,225,620     $ 60,906,372  
 
   
     
 
 Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income(Loss), Net of Tax Balance at January 1
  $ (22,652 )   $ (2,634,509 )
 
   
     
 
 
Unrealized holding gains arising during the period
               
   
Before tax
    5,585,026       2,227,509  
   
Tax expense
    (2,563,525 )     (1,022,428 )
 
   
     
 
     
Net of tax
    3,021,501       1,205,081  
 
   
     
 
 
Balance at September 30
  $ 2,998,849     $ (1,429,428 )
 
   
     
 
 Treasury Stock
               
 
Balance at January 1
  $ (7,986,763 )   $ (6,515,522 )
 
Issuance of shares under incentive compensation plan
          1,537,179  
 
Surrender of shares issued under incentive compensation plan
    (1,459,673 )     --  
 
Purchase of common shares
    (955,167 )     (3,008,420 )
 
   
     
 
 
Balance at September 30
  $ (10,401,603 )   $ (7,986,763 )
 
   
     
 
 Unearned Compensation
               
 
Balance at January 1
  $ (1,857,292 )   $ (1,048,230 )
 
Issuance of shares under incentive compensation plan
          (1,462,656 )
 
Amortization of unearned compensation
    299,178       265,938  
 
   
     
 
 
Balance at September 30
  $ (1,558,114 )   $ (2,244,948 )
 
   
     
 
 Total Shareholders’ Equity
               
 
Balance at January 1
  $ 117,016,094     $ 105,240,127  
 
Net changes during period
    14,456,927       6,946,522  
 
   
     
 
 
Balance at September 30
  $ 131,473,021     $ 112,186,649  
 
   
     
 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

6


Table of Contents

STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

                       
          Nine Months Ended
          September 30,
          2001   2000
 
   
     
 
Operating Activities
               
 
Net Income
  $ 14,234,233     $ 12,063,312  
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
               
   
Provision for credit losses
    5,231,400       4,518,200  
   
Depreciation and amortization of premises and equipment
    1,272,689       1,243,106  
   
Deferred income tax benefit
    (716,738 )     (350,698 )
   
Net change in loans held for sale
    (11,945,324 )     (1,642,130 )
   
Amortization of unearned compensation
    299,178       265,938  
   
Amortization of premiums of securities
    950,159       648,463  
   
Accretion of discounts on securities
    (518,548 )     (820,972 )
   
Decrease in accrued interest receivable
    (871,433 )     (526,311 )
   
Increase in accrued expenses and other liabilities
    14,405,230       8,647,876  
   
Increase in other assets
    (3,562,160 )     (6,653,670 )
   
Other, net
    (1,459,669 )     (139,846 )
 
   
     
 
     
Net cash provided by operating activities
    17,319,017       17,253,268  
 
   
     
 
 Investing Activities
               
 
Purchase of premises and equipment
    (3,035,413 )     (712,091 )
 
Increase in interest-bearing deposits
    (1,554,336 )     (547,463 )
 
Increase in Federal funds sold
    (5,000,000 )     --  
 
Increase in other real estate
    (25,062 )     (507,034 )
 
Net increase in loans
    (25,119,433 )     (31,299,390 )
 
Proceeds from prepayments, redemptions or maturities of securities — held to maturity
    58,972,243       28,172,875  
 
Purchases of securities — held to maturity
    (20,133,093 )     (25,217,335 )
 
Purchases of securities — available for sale
    (122,725,448 )     (61,354,495 )
 
Proceeds from prepayments, redemptions or maturities of securities — available for sale
    36,799,427       78,903,729  
 
   
     
 
     
Net cash used in investing activities
    (81,821,115 )     (12,561,204 )
 
   
     
 
 Financing Activities
               
 
(Decrease)Increase in noninterest-bearing deposits
    (17,428,710 )     4,888,401  
 
Increase(Decrease) in interest-bearing deposits
    151,959,555       (57,942,794 )
 
(Decrease)Increase in Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase
    (101,336,218 )     70,544,413  
 
Increase(Decrease) in commercial paper and other short-term borrowings
    927,493       (4,444,790 )
 
Purchase of treasury stock
    (955,167 )     (3,008,420 )
 
Redemption of preferred stock
    (30,132 )     --  
 
Increase(Decrease) in other long-term debt
    29,650,000       (10,350,000 )
 
Proceeds from exercise of stock options
    3,822,198       77,421  
 
Cash dividends paid on common and preferred stock
    (4,475,215 )     (3,516,964 )
 
   
     
 
     
Net cash provided by(used in) financing activities
    62,133,804       (3,752,733 )
 
   
     
 
Net (decrease) increase in cash and due from banks
    (2,368,294 )     939,331  
Cash and due from banks — beginning of period
    50,212,689       35,505,342  
 
   
     
 
Cash and due from banks — end of period
  $ 47,844,395     $ 36,444,673  
 
   
     
 
Supplemental schedule of non-cash financing activities:
               
 
Issuance of treasury stock
  $     $ 1,537,179  
 
Preferred stock conversions
    29,450       29,220  
 
Surrender of treasury shares issued under incentive compensation plan
    (1,459,673 )     --  
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
               
 
Interest paid
    21,400,448       26,737,461  
 
Income taxes paid
    8,839,390       8,103,063  

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

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Table of Contents

STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

1.   The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Sterling Bancorp (“the parent company”) and its subsidiaries, principally Sterling National Bank and its subsidiaries (“the bank”), after elimination of material intercompany transactions. The term “the Company” refers to Sterling Bancorp and its subsidiaries. The consolidated financial statements as of and for the interim periods ended September 30, 2001 and 2000 are unaudited; however, in the opinion of management, all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring accruals, necessary for a fair presentation of such periods have been made. Certain reclassifications have been made to the 2000 consolidated financial statements to conform to the current presentation. The interim consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2000. The Board announced a 10% stock dividend on November 16, 2000, payable on December 11, 2000 to shareholders of record on December 1, 2000. Fractional shares were cashed-out and payments were made to shareholders in lieu of fractional shares. The basic and diluted average number of shares outstanding and earnings per share information for all prior reporting periods have been restated to reflect the effect of the stock dividend.
 
2.   For purposes of reporting cash flows, cash and cash equivalents include cash and due from banks.
 
3.   The Company’s outstanding Preferred Shares are comprised of 238,961 Series D shares (300,000 Series D shares authorized). As of September 30, 2001, all outstanding Series B shares had been redeemed by the Company. Each Series D share (all of such shares are owned by the Company’s Employee Stock Ownership Trust) is entitled to dividends at the rate of $0.6125 per year, is convertible into 1.1561 Common Shares, and is entitled to a liquidation preference of $10 (together with accrued dividends). All preferred shares are entitled to one vote per share (voting with the Common Shares except as otherwise required by law).
 
4.   The Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 131, “Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information,” established standards for the way that public business enterprises report and disclose selected information about operating segments in interim financial statements issued to stockholders.

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STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

         The Company provides a full range of financial products and services, including commercial loans, asset-based financing, accounts receivable management services, trade financing, equipment leasing, corporate and consumer deposit services, commercial and residential mortgage lending and brokerage, trust and estate administration and investment management services. The Company’s primary source of earnings is net interest income, which represents the difference between interest earned on interest-earning assets and the interest incurred on interest-bearing liabilities. The Company’s 2001 year-to-date average interest-earning assets were 60.6% loans (corporate lending was 74.2% and real estate lending was 20.4% of total loans, respectively) and 39.4% investment securities and money market investments. There are no industry concentrations exceeding 10% of loans, gross, in the corporate loan portfolio. Approximately 72% of loans are to borrowers located in the metropolitan New York area. The Company has determined that it has three reportable operating segments: corporate lending, real estate lending and company-wide treasury.

         The following tables provide certain information regarding the Company’s operating segments for the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2001 and 2000:

                                   
      Corporate   Real Estate   Company-wide        
      Lending   Lending   Treasury   Totals
     
 
 
 
 
                               
Three Months Ended September 30, 2001
                               

                               
Net interest income
  $ 7,386,074     $ 3,606,566     $ 5,978,522     $ 16,971,162  
Noninterest income
    3,283,578       2,240,090       20,820       5,544,488  
Depreciation and amortization
    54,234       64,783       86       119,103  
Segment profit
    4,206,830       3,166,087       6,653,391       14,026,308  
Segment assets
    598,165,252       148,412,334       572,071,246       1,318,648,832  
 
 
                               
Three Months Ended September 30, 2000
                               

                               
Net interest income
  $ 8,086,055     $ 3,097,145     $ 4,273,097     $ 15,456,297  
Noninterest income
    3,339,648       1,609,839       27,106       4,976,593  
Depreciation and amortization
    51,177       58,753       171       110,101  
Segment profit
    5,221,904       2,389,240       5,571,695       13,182,839  
Segment assets
    568,058,326       118,370,413       503,468,683       1,189,897,422  
 
                               
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2001
                               

                               
Net interest income
  $ 23,098,725     $ 10,553,734     $ 15,976,248     $ 49,628,707  
Noninterest income
    9,665,583       5,807,984       93,108       15,566,675  
Depreciation and amortization
    140,721       163,366       256       304,343  
Segment profit
    13,720,942       8,720,781       18,446,963       40,888,686  
Segment assets
    598,165,252       148,412,334       572,071,246       1,318,648,832  
 
                               
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2000
                               

                               
Net interest income
  $ 22,962,417     $ 8,021,052     $ 13,464,205     $ 44,447,674  
Noninterest income
    8,965,153       4,712,202       103,931       13,781,286  
Depreciation and amortization
    140,585       156,572       511       297,668  
Segment profit
    13,403,039       6,705,486       17,231,994       37,340,519  
Segment assets
    568,058,326       118,370,413       503,468,683       1,189,897,422  

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STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

         The following table sets forth reconciliations of net interest income, noninterest income, profits and assets of reportable operating segments to the Company’s consolidated totals:

                                   
      Three Months Ended September 30,   Nine Months Ended September 30,
     
 
      2001   2000   2001   2000
     
 
 
 
 Net interest income:
                               
 
  Total for reportable operating segments
  $ 16,971,162     $ 15,456,297     $ 49,628,707     $ 44,447,674  
 
  Other [1]
    463,384       570,128       1,501,012       2,150,879  
 
   
     
     
     
 
  Consolidated net interest income
  $ 17,434,546     $ 16,026,425     $ 51,129,719     $ 46,598,553  
 
   
     
     
     
 
 Noninterest income:
                               
 
  Total for reportable operating segments
  $ 5,544,488     $ 4,976,593     $ 15,566,675     $ 13,781,286  
 
  Other [1]
    973,121       652,226       2,419,771       1,962,117  
 
   
     
     
     
 
Consolidated noninterest income
  $ 6,517,609     $ 5,628,819     $ 17,986,446     $ 15,743,403  
 
   
     
     
     
 
  Profit:
                               
 
  Total for reportable operating segments
  $ 14,026,308     $ 13,182,839     $ 40,888,686     $ 37,340,519  
 
  Other [1]
    (5,613,711 )     (5,652,591 )     (17,061,554 )     (16,477,436 )
 
   
     
     
     
 
Consolidated income before income taxes
  $ 8,412,597     $ 7,530,248     $ 23,827,132     $ 20,863,083  
 
   
     
     
     
 
  Assets:
                               
 
  Total for reportable operating segments
  $ 1,318,648,832     $ 1,189,897,422     $ 1,318,648,832     $ 1,189,897,422  
 
  Other [1]
    45,080,431       44,349,704       45,080,431       44,349,704  
 
   
     
     
     
 
 Consolidated assets
  $ 1,363,729,263     $ 1,234,247,126     $ 1,363,729,263     $ 1,234,247,126  
 
   
     
     
     
 


    [1] Represents operations not considered to be a reportable segment and/or general operating expenses of the Company.

5.   On September 29, 2000, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued SFAS No. 140, “Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities.” SFAS No. 140 replaces SFAS No. 125 and addresses implementation issues that were identified in applying SFAS No. 125. SFAS No. 140 is effective for transfers of financial assets (including securitizations) occurring after June 30, 2001. However, the provisions of SFAS No. 140 related to the recognition and reclassification of collateral in financial statements and disclosures related to securitization transactions and collateral are effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2000.
 
             In accordance with SFAS No. 140, the Company reports securities pledged as collateral separately in the consolidated balance sheets if the secured party has the right by contract or custom to sell or repledge the collateral. Securities are pledged by the Company to secure trust and public deposits, securities sold under agreements to repurchase, advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York and for other purposes required or permitted by law.

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STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

6.   SFAS No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities,” as amended, is effective January 1, 2001 for the Company, and requires the recognition of all derivatives as either assets or liabilities measured at fair value. The accounting for derivative instruments depends on the intended use of the derivative and its classification as a fair value hedge, cash flow hedge, or a hedge of foreign currency exposure.
 
             Special hedge accounting treatment is permitted only if specific criteria are met. One requirement is that the hedging relationship be highly effective both at inception and on an ongoing basis. Hedge accounting is determined based on the type of hedge-fair value, cash flow or foreign currency hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation. Effective hedge results are recognized in current earnings for fair value hedges, in other comprehensive income for cash flow hedges and as part of the cumulative translation adjustment in other comprehensive income for foreign currency net investment hedges. Ineffective portions of hedges are recognized immediately in current earnings.
 
             The Company adopted the provisions of SFAS No. 133 effective January 1, 2001. At adoption, the Company recorded an insignificant loss and believes that SFAS No. 133 will not have a material impact on the Company’s 2001 consolidated financial statements since the only derivatives that the Company has are interest rate floor contracts with a notional amount of $125 million.
 
7.   In July 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued SFAS No. 141, “Business Combinations,” and SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.” These Statements will change the accounting for business combinations and goodwill in two ways. First, SFAS No. 141 requires that the purchase method of accounting be used for all business combinations initiated after June 30, 2001. Second, SFAS No. 142 changes the accounting for goodwill, including goodwill recorded in past business combinations. The previous accounting principles governing goodwill generated from a business combination will cease upon adoption of SFAS No. 142. The effect of adopting these standards is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s statements of financial condition and results of operations. These standards will become effective for the Company on January 1, 2002.
 
8.   In August 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued SFAS No 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets.” This statement requires one accounting model be used for long-lived assets to be disposed of by sale, whether previously held and used or newly acquired. This statement is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2001. The effect of adopting this statement is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s statements of financial condition and results of operations.

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STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following commentary presents management’s discussion and analysis of the consolidated results of operations and financial condition of Sterling Bancorp (the “parent company”), a bank holding company and a financial holding company as defined by the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended, and its wholly-owned subsidiaries Sterling Banking Corporation and Sterling National Bank. Sterling National Bank, which is the principal subsidiary, owns all of the outstanding shares of Sterling Factors Corporation (“Factors”), Sterling National Mortgage Company, Inc.(“SNMC”), Sterling National Servicing, Inc. (“SNS-Virginia”), Sterling Holding Company of Virginia, Inc. and Sterling Trade Services, Inc. Sterling Holding Company of Virginia, Inc. owns all of the outstanding shares of Sterling Real Estate Holding Company, Inc. (“SREHC”). Sterling Trade Services, Inc., which was formed on April 23, 2001, owns all outstanding common shares of Sterling National Asia Limited, Hong Kong, which was also formed on that date. Throughout this discussion and analysis, the term “the Company” refers to Sterling Bancorp and its subsidiaries and the term “the bank” refers to Sterling National Bank and its subsidiaries. This discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2000.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

The Company may from time to time make written or oral statements that are considered “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to, financial projections, statements of plans and objectives for future operations, estimates of future economic performance and assumptions relating thereto.

         The Company may include forward-looking statements in its filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including this 10-Q, in reports to stockholders, in other written materials, and in statements made by officers and representatives of the Company to analysts, rating agencies, institutional investors, representatives of the media and others.

         These statements are not historical facts but instead are subject to numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties and represent only our belief regarding future events, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and outside of our control. Any forward-looking statements we may make speak only as of the date on which such statements are made. It is possible that our actual results and financial position may differ, possibly materially, from the anticipated results and financial condition indicated in or implied by these forward-looking statements.

         Factors that could cause our actual results to differ, possibly materially, from those in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the following: inflation, interest rates, market and monetary fluctuations; geopolitical developments including acts of war and terrorism and their effect on economic conditions; the effects of, and changes in, trade, monetary and fiscal policies and laws, including interest rate policies of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve; changes, particularly declines, in general economic conditions and in the local economies in which the Company operates; the financial condition of the Company’s borrowers; competitive pressures on loan and deposit pricing and demand; changes in technology and their impact on the marketing of new products and services and the acceptance of these products and services by new and existing customers; the willingness of customers to substitute competitors’ products and services for the Company’s products and services; the impact of changes in financial services’

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laws and regulations (including laws concerning taxes, banking, securities and insurance); changes in accounting principles, policies and guidelines; the success of the Company at managing the risks involved in the foregoing as well as other risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in press releases and other public filings. The foregoing list of important factors is not exclusive, and we will not update any forwarding-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time.

BUSINESS

The Company provides a wide range of financial products and services, including business and consumer loans, commercial and residential mortgage lending and brokerage, asset-based financing, accounts receivable management services, trade financing, equipment leasing, corporate and consumer deposits services, trust and estate administration, and investment management services. The Company has operations in metropolitan New York area, as well as Virginia and other mid-Atlantic states and conducts business throughout the United States.

         There is intense competition in all areas in which the Company conducts its business. In addition to competing with other banks, the Company competes in most areas of its business with other financial institutions. At September 30, 2001, the bank’s year-to-date average earning assets (of which loans were 59% and investment securities were 40%) represented approximately 97% of the Company’s year-to-date average earning assets.

         The Company regularly evaluates acquisition opportunities and conducts due diligence activities in connection with possible acquisitions. As a result, acquisition discussions and, in some cases negotiations, regularly take place and future acquisitions could occur.

Results for the Three Months Ended September 30, 2001 and 2000

OVERVIEW

The Company reported net income for the three months ended September 30, 2001 of $5.0 million, representing $0.50 per share, calculated on a diluted basis, compared to $4.2 million, or $0.45 per share, calculated on a diluted basis, for the like period in 2000. This increase reflects higher net interest income and continued growth in noninterest income.

         Net interest income, on a tax equivalent basis, increased to $17.7 million for the third quarter of 2001 compared with $16.3 million for the same period in 2000, due to higher average earning assets outstanding coupled with lower average cost of funding. The net interest margin, on a tax equivalent basis, was 6.16% for the third quarter of 2001 compared to 6.05% for the like 2000 period. The net interest margin benefitted from a decrease of 149 basis points in the average cost of funds partially offset by a decrease of 106 basis points in the average yield on earning assets. Also contributing to the improved net interest margin were increases in loans (discussed below) and growth of noninterest-bearing deposits. Average noninterest-bearing deposits for the third quarter of 2001 were $288,279,000, up $34,948,000 from the comparable prior year period.

         Noninterest income rose to $6.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2001 compared to $5.6 million for the like 2000 period principally due to continued growth in fees from mortgage banking and deposit and other services.

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INCOME STATEMENT ANALYSIS

Net Interest Income

Net interest income, which represents the difference between interest earned on interest-earning assets and interest incurred on interest-bearing liabilities, is the Company’s primary source of earnings. Net interest income can be affected by changes in market interest rates as well as the level and composition of assets, liabilities and shareholders’ equity. The increases (decreases) in the components of interest income and interest expense, expressed in terms of fluctuation in average volume and rate are shown on page 24. Information as to the components of interest income and interest expense and average rates is provided in the Average Balance Sheets shown on page 22.

         Net interest income, on a tax equivalent basis, for the three months ended September 30, 2001 increased to $17,699,000 from $16,276,000 for the comparable period in 2000.

         Total interest income, on a tax equivalent basis, aggregated $23,941,000 for the third quarter of 2001 down from $25,182,000 for the same period of 2000. The tax equivalent yield on interest earning assets was 8.38% for the three months ended September 30, 2001 compared with 9.44% for the comparable period in 2000. The decrease in interest income was due to a decrease in income earned on the Company’s loan portfolio principally due to lower yields on loans primarily attributable to a lower interest rate environment on average in the 2001 period. The impact of lower yields was partially offset by increases in loan balances as the result of the continued implementation of business plans designed to increase funds employed in this asset category.

         Interest earned on the loan portfolio amounted to $16,328,000 which was down $1,034,000 when compared to a year ago. Average loan balances amounted to $710,986,000 which were up $70,765,000 from the prior year period. The increase in the average loans was primarily in the commercial and industrial, leasing and real estate loan segments. The decrease in the yield on the domestic loan portfolio to 9.63% for the three months ended September 30, 2001 from 11.47% for the comparable 2000 period was primarily attributable to a lower interest rate environment on average in the 2001 period.

         Interest expense on deposits decreased $837,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2001 to $4,831,000 from $5,668,000 for the comparable 2000 period due to lower rates paid. Average rate paid on interest-bearing deposits was 3.09% which was 120 basis points lower than the prior year period. The decrease in average cost of deposits reflects the lower interest rate environment during the 2001 period.

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         Interest expense associated with borrowed funds decreased to $1,411,000 for the third quarter of 2001 from $3,238,000 in the comparable 2000 period as the result of lower average balances and lower funding costs. Average amounts of borrowed funds outstanding decreased $81,735,000 to $137,766,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2001. The average rate paid decreased to 4.07% from 5.91% in the prior year period reflecting the lower interest rate environment during the 2001 period.

Provision for Credit Losses

Based on management’s continuing evaluation of the loan portfolio (discussed under “Asset Quality” below), and principally as the result of the growth in the loan portfolios, the provision for credit losses increased to $2,018,000 up $539,000 when compared to the same period last year.

Noninterest Income

Noninterest income increased $889,000 for the third quarter of 2001 from $5,629,000 in the like 2000 period primarily as a result of increased fees from mortgage banking and deposit and other services.

Noninterest Expenses

Noninterest expenses were $13,522,000 for the third quarter of 2001, an increase of $875,000 when compared with the like 2000 period primarily due to increased professional fees, advertising and marketing, occupancy and various other expenses incurred to support growing levels of business activity and continued investment in the business franchise.

Results for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2001 and 2000

OVERVIEW

The Company reported net income for the nine months ended September 30, 2001 of $14.2 million, representing $1.46 per share, calculated on a diluted basis, compared to $12.1 million, or $1.28 per share calculated on a diluted basis, for the like period in 2000. This increase reflects continued growth in both net interest income and noninterest income as explained below.

         Net interest income, on a tax equivalent basis, increased to $51.9 million for the first nine months of 2001 compared with $47.3 million for the same period in 2000, due to higher average earning assets outstanding coupled with lower average cost of funding. The net interest margin, on a tax equivalent basis, was 6.27% for the first nine months of 2001 compared to 6.02% for the like 2000 period. The net interest margin benefitted from a decrease of 78 basis points in the average costs of funds partially offset by a 40 basis point decrease in the average yield on earning assets. Also contributing to the improved net interest margin were increases in loans (discussed below) and growth of noninterest-bearing deposits. Average noninterest-bearing deposits for the first nine months of 2001 were $287,785,000, up $35,285,000 from the comparable prior year period.

         Noninterest income rose to $18.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2001 compared to $15.7 million for the like 2000 period principally due to growth in fees from mortgage banking, deposit services and factoring.

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INCOME STATEMENT ANALYSIS

Net Interest Income

Net interest income, which represents the difference between interest earned on interest-earning assets and interest incurred on interest-bearing liabilities, is the Company’s primary source of earnings. Net interest income can be affected by changes in market interest rates as well as the level and composition of assets, liabilities and shareholders’ equity. The increases (decreases) in the components of interest income and interest expense for the first nine months, expressed in terms of fluctuation in average volume and rate are shown on page 25. Information as to the components of interest income and interest expense and average rates for the first nine months is provided in the Average Balance Sheets shown on page 23.

         Net interest income, on a tax equivalent basis, for the nine months ended September 30, 2001 increased $4,590,000 to $51,901,000 from $47,311,000 for the comparable period in 2000.

         Total interest income, on a tax equivalent basis, aggregated $73,231,000 up $640,000 for the first nine months of 2001 as compared to $72,591,000 for the same period of 2000. The tax equivalent yield on interest-earning assets was 8.89% for the first nine months of 2001 compared with 9.29% for the comparable period in 2000. The increase in interest income was due to an increase in income earned on the Company’s loan portfolio as a result of the continuation of management’s strategy to increase funds employed in this asset category. The decrease in yield on earning assets was due to lower yields on loans primarily attributable to a lower interest rate environment on average in the 2001 period.

         Interest earned on the loan portfolio amounted to $50,343,000 up $1,473,000 when compared to a year ago. Average loan balances amounted to $697,871,000 up $77,432,000 from an average of $620,439,000 in the prior year period. The increase in the average loans, primarily in the leasing, real estate and commercial and industrial loan segments, accounted for the increase in interest earned on loans. The decrease in the yield on the domestic loan portfolio to 10.41% for the nine months ended September 30, 2001 from 11.32% for the comparable 2000 period was primarily attributable to the lower interest rate environment in the 2001 period.

         Total interest expense decreased $3,950,000 to $21,330,000 for the first nine months of 2001 from $25,280,000 for the comparable period in 2000. The decrease in interest expense was primarily due to lower average rates paid for interest-bearing deposits.

         Interest expense on deposits decreased $2,045,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2001 to $15,071,000 from $17,116,000 for the comparable 2000 period primarily due to the decrease in the cost of funds. The average rate paid on interest-bearing deposits decreased to 3.53% in 2001 compared to 4.22% in the comparable year ago period reflecting the lower rate environment during the 2001 period.

         Interest expense associated with borrowed funds decreased to $6,259,000 for the first nine months of 2001 from $8,164,000 in the comparable 2000 period as the result of lower rates paid for borrowed funds rates and lower average outstandings. The average rate paid decreased to 4.74% from 5.66% for the nine months ended September 30, 2001 reflecting the lower rate environment during the 2001 period. The average amount outstanding decreased $18,373,000 to $176,232,000 for the prior year period.

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Provision for Credit Losses

Based on management’s continuing evaluation of the loan portfolio (discussed under “Asset Quality” below), and principally as the result of the growth in the loan portfolios, the provision for credit losses increased to $5,231,000 up $713,000 when compared to the same period last year.

Noninterest Income

Noninterest income increased $2,243,000 for the first nine months of 2001 from $15,743,000 in the like 2000 period primarily as a result of increased fees from mortgage banking, deposit services and factoring.

Noninterest Expense

Noninterest expenses were $40,058,000 for the first nine months of 2001, an increase of $3,097,000 when compared with the like 2000 period primarily due to increased advertising and marketing, professional fees, occupancy, salaries and employee benefits and various other expenses incurred to support growing levels of business activity and continued investments in the business franchise.

BALANCE SHEET ANALYSIS

Securities

The Company’s securities portfolios are comprised of principally U.S. Government and U.S. Government corporation and agency guaranteed mortgage-backed securities along with other debt and equity securities. At September 30, 2001, the Company’s portfolio of securities totalled $486,037,000 of which U.S. Government and U.S. Government corporations and agencies guaranteed mortgage-backed securities having an average life of approximately 3.7 years amounted to $439,831,000.

         Securities classified as “available for sale” may be sold in the future, prior to maturity. These securities are carried at market value. Net aggregate unrealized gains or losses on these securities are included in a valuation allowance account and are shown net of taxes, as a component of shareholders’ equity. The following table presents information regarding securities available for sale:

                                   
      Gross   Gross   Estimated        
      Amortized   Unrealized   Unrealized   Market
September 30, 2001   Cost   Gains   Losses   Value

 
 
 
 
U.S. Treasury securities
  $ 2,474,001     $ 9,593     $     $ 2,483,594  
Obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies-mortgage-backed securities
    192,371,247       4,110,713       59,386       196,422,574  
 Obligations of state and political institutions
    34,536,245       1,459,261       386       35,995,120  
Other debt securities
    2,995,760       8,927             3,004,687  
Federal Reserve Bank and other equity securities
    5,691,642       14,468             5,706,110  
 
   
     
     
     
 
 
Total
  $ 238,068,895     $ 5,602,962     $ 59,772     $ 243,612,085  
 
   
     
     
     
 

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         The Company has the intent and ability to hold to maturity securities classified as “held to maturity.” These securities are carried at cost, adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts. The following table presents information regarding securities held to maturity:

                                 
            Gross   Gross   Estimated
    Carrying   Unrealized   Unrealized   Market
September 30, 2001   Value   Gains   Losses   Value

 
 
 
 
Obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies — mortgage-backed securities
  $ 240,925,058     $ 8,192,428     $ 118,602     $ 248,998,884  
Debt securities issued by Foreign governments
    1,500,000                   1,500,000  
 
   
     
     
     
 
Total
  $ 242,425,058     $ 8,192,428     $ 118,602     $ 250,498,884  
 
   
     
     
     
 

Loan Portfolio

A key management objective is to maintain the quality of the loan portfolio. The Company seeks to achieve this objective by maintaining rigorous underwriting standards coupled with regular evaluation of the creditworthiness and the designation of lending limits for each borrower. The portfolio strategies seek to avoid concentrations by industry or loan size in order to minimize credit exposure and to originate loans in markets with which it is familiar.

         The Company’s commercial and industrial loan portfolio represents approximately 64% of gross loans. Loans in this category are typically made to small and medium sized businesses and range between $250,000 and $10 million. The primary source of repayment is from the borrower’s operating profits and cash flows. Based on underwriting standards, loans may be secured in whole or in part by collateral such as liquid assets, accounts receivable, equipment, inventory or real property. The Company’s real estate loan portfolio, which represents approximately 18% of gross loans, is secured by mortgages on real property located principally in the State of New York and the Commonwealth of Virginia.

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The Company’s leasing portfolio, which consists of finance leases for various types of business equipment, represents approximately 14% of gross loans. The collateral securing any loan may vary in value based on market conditions.

         The following table sets forth the composition of the Company’s loan portfolio:

                                   
      September 30,
     
      2001   2000
     
 
      ($ in thousands)
              % of           % of
      Balances   Gross   Balances   Gross
     
 
 
 
Domestic
                               
 
Commercial and industrial
  $ 512,068       64.1 %   $ 482,297       65.9 %
 
Equipment lease financing
    108,125       13.5       99,463       13.6  
 
Real estate
    144,219       18.1       120,353       16.5  
 
Installment — individuals
    8,488       1.1       8,665       1.2  
 
Loans to depository institutions
    25,000       3.1       20,000       2.7  
Foreign
                               
 
Government and official institutions
    777       0.1       777       0.1  
 
   
     
     
     
 
Gross loan
    798,677       100.0 %     731,555       100.0 %
 
           
             
 
 
Unearned discounts
    15,162               12,903          
 
   
             
         
Loans, net of unearned discounts
  $ 783,515             $ 718,652          
 
   
             
         

Asset Quality

Intrinsic to the lending process is the possibility of loss. In times of economic slowdown, the risk inherent in the Company’s portfolio of loans may be increased. While management endeavors to minimize this risk, it recognizes that loan losses will occur and that the amount of these losses will fluctuate depending on the risk characteristics of the loan portfolio which in turn depends on current and expected economic conditions, the financial condition of borrowers and the credit management process.

         The allowance for credit losses is maintained through the provision for credit losses, which is a charge to operating earnings. The adequacy of the provision and the resulting allowance for credit losses is determined by management’s continuing review of the loan portfolio, including identification and review of individual problem situations that may affect the borrower’s ability to repay, review of overall portfolio quality through an analysis of current charge-offs, delinquency and nonperforming loan data, estimates of the value of any underlying collateral, review of regulatory examinations, an assessment of current and expected economic conditions and changes in the size and character of the loan portfolio. The allowance reflects management’s evaluation of both loans presenting identified loss potential and of the risk inherent in various components of the portfolio, including loans identified as impaired as required by SFAS No. 114. Thus, an increase in the size of the portfolio or in any of its components could necessitate an increase in the allowance even though there may not be a decline in credit quality or an increase in potential problem loans. A significant change in any of the evaluation factors described above could result in future additions to the allowance. At September 30, 2001, the allowance was $13,469,000 and the ratio of the allowance to loans, net of unearned discounts, was 1.72%. At such date, the Company’s non-accrual loans amounted to $1,874,000; $315,000 of such loans were judged to be impaired within the scope of SFAS No. 114 and required valuation allowances of $100,000. Based on the foregoing, as well as management’s judgment as to the current risks inherent in the loan portfolio, the Company’s allowance for credit losses was deemed adequate to absorb all estimable losses on

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specifically known and other possible credit risks associated with the portfolio as of September 30, 2001. Potential problem loans, which are loans that are currently performing under present loan repayment terms but where known information about possible credit problems of borrowers cause management to have serious doubts as to the ability of the borrowers to continue to comply with the present repayment terms, aggregated $658,000 at September 30, 2001.

Deposits

A significant source of funds for the Company continues to be deposits, consisting of demand (noninterest-bearing), NOW, savings, money market and time deposits (principally certificates of deposit).

         The following table provides certain information with respect to the Company’s deposits:

                                   
      September 30,
     
      2001   2000
     
 
      ($ in thousands)
              % of           % of
      Balances   Total   Balances   Total
     
 
 
 
Domestic
Demand
  $ 323,611       32.3 %   $ 296,696       36.6 %
 
NOW
    99,363       9.9       69,587       8.6  
 
Savings
    31,397       3.1       23,151       2.9  
 
Money Market
    221,644       22.2       146,284       18.1  
 
Time deposits
    321,823       32.2       270,853       33.4  
 
   
     
     
     
 
 
   Total domestic deposits
  997,838       99.7       806,571       99.6  
 Foreign
Time deposits
    2,975       0.3       2,895       0.4  
 
   
     
     
     
 
 Total deposits
  $ 1,000,813       100.0 %   $ 809,466       100.0 %
 
   
     
     
     
 

Fluctuations of balances in total or among categories at any date may occur based on the Company’s mix of assets and liabilities as well as on customer’s balance sheet strategies. Historically, however, average balances for deposits have been relatively stable. Information regarding these average balances is presented on pages 22 and 23.

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CAPITAL

The Company and the bank are subject to risk-based capital regulations. The purpose of these regulations is to quantitatively measure capital against risk-weighted assets, including off-balance sheet items. These regulations define the elements of total capital into Tier 1 and Tier 2 components and establish minimum ratios of 4% for Tier 1 capital and 8% for Total Capital for capital adequacy purposes. Supplementing these regulations is a leverage requirement. This requirement establishes a minimum leverage ratio (at least 3% to 5%) which is calculated by dividing Tier 1 capital by adjusted quarterly average assets (after deducting goodwill). Information regarding the Company’s and the bank’s risk-based capital is presented on page 26. In addition, the Company and the bank are subject to the provisions of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act of 1981 (“FDICIA”) which imposes a number of mandatory supervisory measures. Among other matters, FDICIA established five capital categories ranging from “well capitalized” to “critically under capitalized.” Such classifications are used by regulatory agencies to determine a bank’s deposit insurance premium, approval of applications authorizing institutions to increase their asset size or otherwise expand business activities or acquire other institutions and for other supervisory and regulatory purposes. Under the provisions of FDICIA a “well capitalized” institution must maintain minimum leverage, Tier 1 and Total Capital ratios of 5%, 6% and 10%, respectively. At September 30, 2001, the Company and the bank exceeded the requirements for “well capitalized” institutions. Under the provisions of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act of 1999, in order for the parent company to maintain its status as a financial holding company, the bank must remain “well capitalized.”

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STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Average Balance Sheets [1]
Three Months Ended September 30,

(dollars in thousands)

                                                         
            2001   2000
           
 
            Average           Average   Average           Average
            Balance   Interest   Rate   Balance   Interest   Rate
           
 
 
 
 
 
  ASSETS
                                               
Interest-bearing deposits with other banks
  $ 4,039     $ 28       2.78 %   $ 1,623     $ 26       5.54 %
Investment securities:
                                               
 
Available for sale
    176,281       2,855       6.48       121,864       2,051       6.60  
 
Held to maturity
    239,305       4,034       6.74       298,217       5,125       6.87  
 
Tax-exempt [2]
    34,660       641       7.34       32,962       608       7.34  
Federal funds sold
    6,130       55       3.51       620       10       6.49  
Loans, net of unearned discounts
 Domestic [3]
    710,209       16,318       9.63       639,444       17,347       11.47  
Foreign
      777       10       5.20       777       15       7.70  
 
   
     
             
     
         
 TOTAL INTEREST-EARNING ASSETS
    1,171,401       23,941       8.38 %     1,095,507       25,182       9.44 %
 
           
     
             
     
 
Cash and due from banks
    38,776                       38,755                  
Allowance for credit losses
    (13,691 )                     (12,310 )                
Goodwill
    21,158                       21,158                  
Other assets
    29,689                       23,319                  
 
   
                     
                 
TOTAL ASSETS
  $ 1,247,333                     $ 1,166,429                  
 
   
                     
                 
 LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
                                               
Interest-bearing deposits
                                               
 
Domestic
 Savings
  $ 30,267       165       2.17 %   $ 24,466       147       2.39 %
   
NOW
    94,777       407       1.70       69,143       460       2.65  
   
Money market
    201,781       1,080       2.12       151,735       1,195       3.13  
   
Time
    290,412       3,147       4.30       277,705       3,833       5.49  
 
Foreign
 Time
    2,975       32       4.22       2,844       33       4.67  
 
   
     
             
     
         
     
Total interest-bearing deposits
    620,212       4,831       3.09       525,893       5,668       4.29  
 
   
     
             
     
         
 Borrowings
Federal funds purchased and securities
   sold under agreements to
   repurchase
    56,529       548       3.84       169,175       2,589       6.09  
 
Commercial paper
    36,552       357       3.88       27,823       372       5.32  
 
Other short-term debt
    4,335       39       3.54       11,803       169       5.34  
 
Long-term debt
    40,350       467       4.63       10,700       108       5.19  
 
   
     
             
     
         
       
Total borrowings
    137,766       1,411       4.07       219,501       3,238       5.91  
 
   
     
             
     
         
 TOTAL INTEREST-BEARING LIABILITIES
    757,978       6,242       3.27 %     745,394       8,906       4.76 %
 
           
     
             
     
 
Noninterest-bearing deposits
    288,279                       253,331                  
Other liabilities
    73,743                       59,217                  
 
   
                     
                 
       
Total liabilities
    1,120,000                       1,057,942                  
 Shareholders’ equity
    127,333                       108,487                  
 
   
                     
                 
       
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
  $ 1,247,333                     $ 1,166,429                  
 
   
                     
                 
 Net interest income/spread
            17,699       5.11 %             16,276       4.68 %
 
                   
                     
 
 Net yield on interest-earning assets (margin)
                    6.16 %                     6.05 %
 
                   
                     
 
 Less: Tax equivalent adjustment
            264                       250          
 
           
                     
         
 Net interest income
          $ 17,435                     $ 16,026          
 
           
                     
         


    [1] The average balances of assets, liabilities and shareholders’ equity are computed on the basis of daily averages. Average rates
      are presented on a tax equivalent basis. Certain reclassifications have been made to 2000 amounts to conform to the current
      presentation.
    [2] Interest on tax-exempt securities is presented on a tax equivalent basis.
    [3] Nonaccrual loans are included in amounts outstanding and income has been included to the extent earned.

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STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Average Balance Sheets [1]
Nine Months Ended September 30,

(dollars in thousands)

                                                         
            2001   2000
           
 
            Average           Average   Average           Average
            Balance   Interest   Rate   Balance   Interest   Rate
           
 
 
 
 
 
  ASSETS
                                               
Interest-bearing deposits with other banks
  $ 3,371     $ 86       3.42 %   $ 2,191     $ 85       4.97 %
Investment securities:
                                               
 
Available for sale
    155,740       7,740       6.63       125,247       6,226       6.59  
 
Held to maturity
    257,193       13,108       6.80       300,951       15,488       6.86  
 
Tax-exempt [2]
    33,810       1,874       7.41       31,504       1,733       7.35  
Federal funds sold
    2,681       80       3.91       4,471       189       5.56  
Loans, net of unearned discounts
                                               
 
Domestic [3]
    697,094       50,306       10.41       619,658       48,827       11.32  
 
Foreign
    777       37       6.32       781       43       7.38  
             
     
             
     
       
 TOTAL INTEREST-EARNING ASSETS
    1,150,666       73,231       8.89 %     1,084,803       72,591       9.29 %
 
           
     
             
     
 
Cash and due from banks
    42,510                       37,713                  
Allowance for credit losses
    (13,443 )                     (11,972 )                
Goodwill
    21,158                       21,158                  
Other assets
    27,536                       22,646                  
 
   
                     
                 
       
TOTAL ASSETS
  $ 1,228,427                     $ 1,154,348                  
 
   
                     
                 
 LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
                                               
Interest-bearing deposits
                                               
 
Domestic
                                               
   
Savings
  $ 27,492       476       2.31 %   $ 24,317       432       2.37 %
   
NOW
    80,928       1,242       2.05       70,245       1,335       2.54  
   
Money market
    190,900       3,499       2.45       157,899       3,732       3.16  
   
Time
    268,634       9,750       4.85       286,981       11,521       5.36  
 
Foreign
                                               
   
Time
  2,975       104       4.68       2,835       96       4.51  
 
   
     
             
     
         
Total interest-bearing deposits
    570,929       15,071       3.53       542,277       17,116       4.22  
 
   
     
             
     
         
 Borrowings
                                               
 
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase
    101,195       3,681       4.86       142,888       6,207       5.80  
 
Commercial paper
    35,999       1,225       4.55       28,769       1,109       5.15  
 
Other short-term debt
    3,588       124       4.62       10,450       438       5.38  
 
Long-term debt
    35,450       1,229       4.62       12,498       410       5.39  
 
   
     
             
     
         
       
Total borrowings
    176,232       6,259       4.74       194,605       8,164       5.66  
 
   
     
             
     
         
 TOTAL INTEREST-BEARING LIABILITIES
    747,161       21,330       3.82 %     736,882       25,280       4.60 %
 
           
     
             
     
 
Noninterest-bearing deposits
    287,785                       252,500                  
Other liabilities
    71,520                       59,085                  
 
   
                     
                 
       
Total liabilities
    1,106,466                       1,048,467                  
Shareholders’ equity
    121,961                       105,881                  
 
   
                     
                 
     
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
  $ 1,228,427                     $ 1,154,348                  
 
   
                     
                 
 Net interest income/spread
            51,901       5.07 %             47,311       4.69 %
 
                   
                     
 
 Net yield on interest-earning assets (margin)
                    6.27 %                     6.02 %
 
                   
                     
 
 Less: Tax equivalent adjustment
            771                       713          
 
           
                     
         
 Net interest income
          $ 51,130                     $ 46,598          
 
           
                     
         


[1]   The average balances of assets, liabilities and shareholders’ equity are computed on the basis of daily averages. Average rates are presented on a tax equivalent basis. Certain reclassifications have been made to 2000 amounts to conform to current presentation.
[2]   Interest on tax-exempt securities is presented on a tax equivalent basis.
[3]   Nonaccrual loans are included in amounts outstanding and income has been included to the extent earned.

23


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STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Rate/Volume Analysis [1]

(in thousands)

                               
          Increase/(Decrease)
          Three Months Ended
          September 30, 2001 to September 30, 2000
         
          Volume   Rate   Net [2]
         
 


 INTEREST INCOME
                       
Interest-bearing deposits with other banks
  $ 18     $ (16 )   $ 2  
 
   
     
     
 
Investment securities
                       
 
Available for sale
    844       (40 )     804  
 
Held to maturity
    (995 )     (96 )     (1,091 )
 
Tax-exempt
    33             33  
 
   
     
     
 
     
Total investment securities
    (118 )     (136 )     (254 )
 
   
     
     
 
 Federal funds sold
    52       (7 )     45  
 
   
     
     
 
 Loans, net of unearned discounts
                       
 
Domestic [3]
    2,002       (3,031 )     (1,029 )
 
Foreign
          (5 )     (5 )
 
   
     
     
 
     
Total loans, net of unearned discount
    2,002       (3,036 )     (1,034 )
 
   
     
     
 
 TOTAL INTEREST INCOME
  $ 1,954     $ (3,195 )   $ (1,241 )
 
   
     
     
 
 INTEREST EXPENSE
                       
Interest-bearing deposits
                       
 
Domestic
                       
   
Savings
  $ 33     $ (15 )   $ 18  
   
NOW
    142       (195 )     (53 )
   
Money market
    332       (447 )     (115 )
   
Time
    171       (857 )     (686 )
 
Foreign
                       
   
Time
    2       (3 )     (1 )
 
   
     
     
 
     
Total interest-bearing deposits
    680       (1,517 )     (837 )
 
   
     
     
 
  Borrowings
                       
 
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase
    (1,313 )     (728 )     (2,041 )
 
Commercial paper
    100       (115 )     (15 )
 
Other short-term debt
    (85 )     (45 )     (130 )
 
Long-term debt
    375       (16 )     359  
 
   
     
     
 
     
Total borrowings
    (923 )     (904 )     (1,827 )
 
   
     
     
 
 TOTAL INTEREST EXPENSE
  $ (243 )   $ (2,421 )   $ (2,664 )
 
   
     
     
 
 NET INTEREST INCOME
  $ 2,197     $ (774 )   $ 1,423  
 
   
     
     
 


    [1] The above table is presented on a tax equivalent basis.
    [2] The change in interest income and interest expense due to both rate and volume has been allocated to the change due to rate and
      the change due to volume in proportion to the relationship of the absolute dollar amounts of the changes in each. The effect of
      one extra day in 2000 has been included in the change in volume.
    [3] Nonaccrual loans have been included in the amounts outstanding and income has been included to the extent accrued.

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STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Rate/Volume Analysis [1]

(in thousands)

                               
          Increase/(Decrease)
          Nine Months Ended
          September 30, 2001 to September 30, 2000
         
          Volume   Rate   Net [2]
         
 


 INTEREST INCOME
                       
Interest-bearing deposits with other banks
  $ 32     $ (31 )   $ 1  
 
   
     
     
 
Investment securities
Available for sale
    1,476       38       1,514  
 
Held to maturity
    (2,254 )     (126 )     (2,380 )
 
Tax-exempt
    126       15       141  
 
   
     
     
 
     
Total investment securities
    (652 )     (73 )     (725 )
 
   
     
     
 
 Federal funds sold
    (63 )     (46 )     (109 )
 
   
     
     
 
 Loans, net of unearned discounts
                       
 
Domestic [3]
    5,819       (4,340 )     1,479  
 
Foreign
          (6 )     (6 )
 
   
     
     
 
     
Total loans, net of unearned discount
    5,819       (4,346 )     1,473  
 
   
     
     
 
 TOTAL INTEREST INCOME
  $ 5,136     $ (4,496 )   $ 640  
 
   
     
     
 
 INTEREST EXPENSE
                       
Interest-bearing deposits
                       
 
Domestic
                       
   
Savings
  $ 54     $ (10 )   $ 44  
   
NOW
    177       (270 )     (93 )
   
Money market
    673       (906 )     (233 )
   
Time
    (780 )     (991 )     (1,771 )
 
Foreign
                       
   
Time
    4       4       8  
 
   
     
     
 
     
Total interest-bearing deposits
    128       (2,173 )     (2,045 )
 
   
     
     
 
  Borrowings
                       
 
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase
    (1,645 )     (881 )     (2,526 )
 
Commercial paper
    251       (135 )     116  
 
Other short-term debt
    (260 )     (54 )     (314 )
 
Long-term debt
    893       (74 )     819  
 
   
     
     
 
     
Total borrowings
    (761 )     (1,144 )     (1,905 )
 
   
     
     
 
 TOTAL INTEREST EXPENSE
  $ (633 )   $ (3,317 )   $ (3,950 )
 
   
     
     
 
 NET INTEREST INCOME
  $ 5,769     $ (1,179 )   $ 4,590  
 
   
     
     
 


  [1] The above table is presented on a tax equivalent basis.
  [2] The change in interest income and interest expense due to both rate and volume has been allocated to the change due to rate and the change due to volume in proportion to the relationship of the absolute dollar amounts of the changes in each. The effect of one extra day in 2000 has been included in the change in volume.
  [3] Nonaccrual loans have been included in the amounts outstanding and income has been included to the extent accrued.

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STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Regulatory Capital and Ratios

                                                   
Ratios and Minimums                                                
(dollars in thousands)                                                
                                                 
                      For Capital   To Be Well
      Actual   Adequacy Minimum   Capitalized
     
 
 
      Amount   Ratio   Amount   Ratio   Amount   Ratio
     
 
 
 
 
 
As of September 30, 2001
                                               
 Total Capital(to Risk Weighted Assets):
                                               
 
The Company
  $ 117,614       14.33 %     65,655       8.00 %   $ 82,069       10.00 %
 
The bank
    100,831       12.98       62,141       8.00       77,676       10.00  
 Tier 1 Capital(to Risk Weighted Assets):
                                               
 
The Company
    107,316       13.08       32,828       4.00       49,242       6.00  
 
The bank
    91,096       11.73       31,070       4.00       46,606       6.00  
 Tier 1 Leverage Capital(to Average Assets):
                                               
 
The Company
    107,316       8.75       49,047       4.00       61,309       5.00  
 
The bank
    91,096       7.68       47,464       4.00       59,330       5.00  
   
                                               
As of December 31, 2000
                                               
 
                                               
Total Capital(to Risk Weighted Assets):
                                               
 
The Company
  $ 105,503       13.35 %   $ 63,205       8.00 %   $ 79,006       10.00 %
 
The bank
    86,877       11.44       60,746       8.00       75,933       10.00  
 Tier 1 Capital(to Risk Weighted Assets):
                                               
 
The Company
    95,593       12.10       31,602       4.00       47,404       6.00  
 
The bank
    77,367       10.19       30,373       4.00       45,560       6.00  
 Tier 1 Leverage Capital(to Average Assets):
                                               
 
The Company
    95,593       8.11       47,141       4.00       58,926       5.00  
 
The bank
    77,367       6.73       46,015       4.00       57,519       5.00  

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QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE
DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

ASSET/LIABILITY MANAGEMENT

The Company’s primary earnings source is net interest income; therefore, the Company devotes significant time and has invested in resources to assist in the management of market risk, liquidity risk, capital and asset quality. The Company’s net interest income is affected by changes in market interest rates and by the level and composition of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities. The Company’s objectives in its asset/liability management are to utilize its capital effectively, to provide adequate liquidity and to enhance net interest income, without taking undue risks or subjecting the Company unduly to interest rate fluctuations.

         The Company takes a coordinated approach to the management of market risk, liquidity and capital. This risk management process is governed by policies and limits established by senior management which are reviewed and approved by the Asset/Liability Committee (“ALCO”). ALCO, which is comprised of members of senior management and the Board, meets to review among other things, economic conditions, interest rates, yield curve, cash flow projections, expected customer actions, liquidity levels, capital ratios and repricing characteristics of assets, liabilities and off-balance sheet financial instruments.

Market Risk

Market risk is the risk of loss in a financial instrument arising from adverse changes in market indices such as interest rates, foreign exchange rates and equity prices. The Company’s principal market risk exposure is interest rate risk, with no material impact on earnings from changes in foreign exchange rates or equity prices.

         Interest rate risk is the exposure to changes in market interest rates. Interest rate sensitivity is the relationship between market interest rates and net interest income due to the repricing characteristics of assets and liabilities. The Company monitors the interest rate sensitivity of its on- and off-balance sheet positions by examining its near-term sensitivity and its longer term gap position. In its management of interest rate risk, the Company utilizes several tools including traditional gap analysis and sophisticated income simulation models.

         A traditional gap analysis is prepared based on the maturity and repricing characteristics of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities for selected time bands. The mismatch between repricings or maturities within a time band is commonly referred to as the “gap” for that period. A positive gap (asset sensitive) where interest-rate sensitive assets exceed interest-rate sensitive liabilities generally will result in an institution’s net interest margin increasing in a rising rate environment and decreasing in a falling rate environment. A negative gap (liability sensitive) will generally have the opposite result on an institution’s net interest margin. However, the traditional gap analysis does not assess the relative sensitivity of assets and liabilities to changes in interest rates. The Company utilizes the gap analysis to complement its income simulations modeling.

         The Company’s balance sheet structure is primarily short-term in nature with a substantial portion of assets and liabilities repricing or maturing within one year. The Company’s gap analysis at September 30, 2001, is presented on page 30. The results of both the income simulation analysis and the gap analysis, reveal that net interest income would tend to increase during periods of rising interest rates and tend to decrease during periods of falling interest rates.

         As part of its interest rate risk strategy, the Company uses certain financial instruments (derivatives) to hedge the interest rate sensitivity of assets with the corresponding amortization reflected in the yield of the related on-balance sheet assets being hedged. The Company has written policy guidelines, which have been approved by the Board of Directors based on recommendations of the Asset/Liability Committee, governing the use of certain financial instruments (derivatives), including approved counterparties, risk limits and appropriate

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internal control procedures. The credit risk of derivatives arises principally from the potential for a counterparty to fail to meet its obligation to settle a contract on a timely basis.

         The Company purchased interest rate floor contracts to reduce the impact of falling rates on its floating rate commercial loans. Interest rate floor contracts require the counterparty to pay the Company at specified future dates the amount, if any, by which the specified interest rate (3 month LIBOR) falls below the fixed floor rates, applied to the notional amounts. The Company utilizes these financial instruments to adjust its interest rate risk position without exposing itself to principal risk and funding requirements.

         At September 30, 2001, the Company utilized five interest rate floor contracts having a notional amount totaling $75 million consisting of a contract with a notional amount of $25 million and a final maturity of November 15, 2001 and two contracts with a notional amount of $25 million each and a final maturity of November 15, 2002. These financial instruments are being used as part of the Company’s interest rate risk management and not for trading purposes. At September 30, 2001, all counterparties have investment grade credit ratings from the major rating agencies. Each counterparty is specifically approved for applicable credit exposure.

         The Company utilizes income simulation models to complement its traditional gap analysis. While ALCO routinely monitors simulated net interest income sensitivity over a rolling two-year horizon, it also utilizes additional tools to monitor potential longer-term interest rate risk. The income simulation models measure the Company’s net interest income sensitivity or volatility to interest rate changes utilizing statistical techniques that allow the Company to consider various factors which impact net interest income. These factors include actual maturities, estimated cash flows, repricing characteristics, deposits growth/retention and, most importantly, the relative sensitivity of the Company’s assets and liabilities to changes in market interest rates. This relative sensitivity is important to consider as the Company’s core deposit base is not subject to the same degree of interest rate sensitivity as its assets. The core deposit costs are internally managed and tend to exhibit less sensitivity to changes in interest rates than the Company’s adjustable rate assets whose yields are based on external indices and change in concert with market interest rates.

         The Company’s interest rate sensitivity is determined by identifying the probable impact of changes in market interest rates on the yields on the Company’s assets and the rates which would be paid on its liabilities. This modeling technique involves a degree of estimation based on certain assumptions that management believes to be reasonable. Utilizing this process, management can project the impact of changes in interest rates on net interest margin. The estimated effects of the Company’s interest rate floors are included in the results of the sensitivity analysis. The Company has established certain limits for the potential volatility of its net interest margin assuming certain levels of changes in market interest rates with the objective of maintaining a stable net interest margin under various probable rate scenarios. Management generally has maintained a risk position well within the policy limits. As of September 30, 2001, the model indicated the impact of a 200 basis point parallel and pro rata rise in rates over twelve months would approximate a 2.05% ($1,479,000) increase in net interest income, while the impact of a 200 basis point decline in rates over the same period would approximate a 3.25% ($2,343,000) decline from an unchanged rate environment.

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

         Also, as market conditions vary from those assumed in the sensitivity analysis, actual results will also differ due to: prepayment/refinancing levels likely deviating from those assumed, the varying impact of interest rate change “caps” or “floors” on adjustable rate assets, the potential effect of changing debt service levels on customers with adjustable rate loans, depositor early withdrawals and product preference changes, and other internal/external variables. Furthermore, the sensitivity analysis does not reflect actions that the Asset/Liability Committee might take in responding to or anticipating changes in interest rates.

Liquidity Risk

Liquidity is the ability to meet cash needs arising from changes in various categories of assets and liabilities. Liquidity is constantly monitored and managed throughout the Company. Liquid assets consist of cash and due from banks, interest-bearing deposits in banks and Federal funds sold and securities available for sale. Primary funding sources include core deposits, capital markets funds and other money market sources. Core deposits include domestic noninterest-bearing and interest-bearing retail deposits, which historically have been relatively stable. The parent company and the bank have significant unused borrowing capacity. Contingency plans exist and could be implemented on a timely basis to minimize the impact of any dramatic change in market conditions.

         The parent company generates income from its own operations. Its cash requirements are supplemented from funds maintained or generated by its subsidiaries, principally the bank. Such sources have been adequate to meet the parent company’s cash requirements.

         The bank’s ability to supply funds to the parent company and its nonbank subsidiaries subject to various legal restrictions. All national banks are limited in the payment of dividends without the approval of the Comptroller of the Currency to an amount not to exceed the net profits as defined, for that year to date combined with its retained net profits for the preceding two calendar years. A national bank can make loans or otherwise provide funds to its parent company subject to limitations on amount and collateral requirements. There are no such loans outstanding.

         At September 30, 2001, the parent company’s short-term debt, consisting principally of commercial paper used to finance ongoing current business activities, was approximately $35,285,000. The parent company had cash, interest-bearing deposits with banks and other current assets aggregating $37,906,000 and back-up credit lines with banks of $19,000,000. Since 1979, the parent company has had no need to use available back-up lines of credit.

         While the past performance is no guarantee of the future, management believes that the Company’s funding sources (including dividends from all its subsidiaries) and the bank’s funding sources will be adequate to meet their liquidity and capital requirements in the future.

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STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Interest Rate Sensitivity

To mitigate the vulnerability of earnings to changes in interest rates, the Company manages the repricing characteristics of assets and liabilities in an attempt to control net interest rate sensitivity. Management attempts to confine significant rate sensitivity gaps predominantly to repricing intervals of a year or less so that adjustments can be made quickly. Assets and liabilities with predetermined repricing dates are placed in a time of the earliest repricing period. Amounts are presented in thousands.

                                                         
            Repricing Date
           
                    More than   More than           Non        
            3 months   3 months   1 Year to   Over   Rate        
            or less   to 1 Year   5 years   5 years   Sensitive   Total
           
 
 
 
 
 
  ASSETS
                                               
 
Interest-bearing deposits with other banks
  $ 4,211     $     $     $     $     $ 4,211  
 
Federal funds sold
    5,000                               5,000  
 
Investment securities
    3,393       4,341       40,698       431,899       5,706       486,037  
 
Loans, net of unearned discounts
                                               
     
Commercial and industrial
    508,934       742       2,261       131       (788 )     511,280  
     
Loans to depository institutions
    25,000                               25,000  
     
Lease financing
    30,057       3,373       64,750       9,945       (14,287 )     93,838  
     
Real estate
    58,934       535       29,799       54,951       (43 )     144,176  
     
Installment
    4,487       85       2,218       1,698       (44 )     8,444  
     
Foreign government and official institutions
          777                         777  
 
Noninterest-earning assets and allowance for credit losses
                            84,966       84,966  
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
     
Total Assets
    640,016       9,853       139,726       498,624       75,510       1,363,729  
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
 LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
                                               
 
Interest-bearing deposits
                                               
   
Savings [1]
              31,397                   31,397  
   
NOW [1]
                99,363                   99,363  
   
Money market [1]
    180,354             41,290                   221,644  
   
Time — domestic
    198,180       74,785       47,858       1,000             321,823  
       
 — foreign
    1,180       1,795                         2,975  
 
Federal funds purchased & securities sold u/a/r
    60,908       519                         61,427  
 
Commercial paper
    35,285                               35,285  
 
Other short-term borrowings
    8,681       350                         9,031  
 
Long-term borrowings — FHLB
                350       40,000             40,350  
 
Noninterest-bearing liabilities and shareholders’ equity
                            540,434       540,434  
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
   
 Total Liabilities and
Shareholders’ Equity
484,588       77,449       220,258       41,000       540,434       1,363,729  
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
 Net Interest Rate
Sensitivity Gap
  $ 155,428     $ (67,596 )   $ (80,532 )   $ 457,624     $ (464,924 )   $  
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
 Cumulative Gap
September 30, 2001
  $ 155,428     $ 87,832     $ 7,300     $ 464,924     $     $  
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
 Cumulative Gap
September 30, 2000
  $ 76,651     $ (14,542 )   $ (45,593 )   $ 405,710     $     $  
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 
 Cumulative Gap
December 31, 2000
  $ 101,033     $ 24,199     $ (9,231 )   $ 455,154     $     $  
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
 


  [1] Historically, balances in non-maturity deposit accounts have remained relatively stable despite changes in levels of interest rates. Balances are shown in repricing periods based on management’s historical repricing practices and runoff experience.

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STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES

Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

         (a)  The following exhibits are filed as part of this report:

       (11) Statement Re: Computation of Per Share Earnings

         (b)  No reports on Form 8-K have been filed during the quarter.

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.

STERLING BANCORP


(Registrant)

             
Date   11/14/01

  /s/   Louis J. Cappelli
Louis J. Cappelli
Chairman and
Chief Executive Officer
             
Date   11/14/01

  /s/   John W. Tietjen
John W. Tietjen
Executive Vice President, Treasurer
and Chief Financial Officer

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STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
EXHIBIT INDEX
 
                                 
            Incorporated           Sequential
Exhibit           Herein By   Filed   Page
Number   Description   Reference To   Herewith   No.

 
 
 
 
11
  Computation of             X  
 
  Per Share Earnings                

32