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, 2003 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 (I.R.S. Employer incorporation or organization) 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 Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act, [X] Yes [ ] No As of October 31, 2003 there were 14,934,922 shares of common stock, $1.00 par value, outstanding. 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 15 Results for Three Months 15 Results for Nine Months 17 Balance Sheet Analysis 19 Capital 23 Average Balance Sheets 24 Rate/Volume Analysis 26 Regulatory Capital and Ratios 28 Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk Asset/Liability Management 29 Interest Rate Sensitivity 32 Item 4. Controls and Procedures 33 PART II OTHER INFORMATION Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K 34 SIGNATURES 35 EXHIBIT INDEX 36 Exhibit 11 Statement Re: Computation of Per Share Earnings 37 Exhibit 31 Certifications of the CEO and CFO pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(a) 38 Exhibit 32 Certifications of the CEO and CFO required by Section 1350 of chapter 63 of title 18 of the U.S. Code 40 2 STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited) September 30, December 31, 2003 2002 -------------- -------------- ASSETS Cash and due from banks $ 46,207,355 $ 58,173,569 Interest-bearing deposits with other banks 2,446,910 2,872,710 Federal funds sold -- 5,000,000 Securities available for sale 161,499,825 128,465,512 Securities available for sale - pledged 113,101,504 90,969,577 Securities held to maturity 119,506,411 147,109,430 Securities held to maturity - pledged 189,318,858 222,229,901 -------------- -------------- Total investment securities 583,426,598 588,774,420 -------------- -------------- Loans held for sale 79,347,587 54,684,987 -------------- -------------- Loans held in portfolio, net of unearned discounts 876,779,095 791,315,047 Less allowance for loan losses 14,436,151 13,549,297 -------------- -------------- Loans, net 862,342,944 777,765,750 -------------- -------------- Customers' liability under acceptances 2,991,766 1,545,335 Excess cost over equity in net assets of the banking subsidiary 21,158,440 21,158,440 Premises and equipment, net 9,110,747 9,263,172 Other real estate 1,023,737 822,820 Accrued interest receivable 5,582,938 4,881,937 Bank owned life insurance 21,620,909 20,830,688 Other assets 20,785,217 15,347,734 -------------- -------------- $1,656,045,148 $1,561,121,562 ============== ============== LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Deposits Noninterest-bearing deposits $ 399,934,027 $ 401,553,363 Interest-bearing deposits 695,330,792 645,539,745 -------------- -------------- Total deposits 1,095,264,819 l,047,093,108 Securities sold under agreements to repurchase - customers 79,563,532 60,925,635 Securities sold under agreements to repurchase - dealers 64,063,000 40,000,000 Commercial paper 22,758,875 29,318,920 Other short-term borrowings 33,142,159 37,030,404 Acceptances outstanding 2,991,766 1,545,335 Accrued expenses and other liabilities 77,315,678 75,427,836 Long-term debt - FHLB 115,000,000 115,000,000 Total liabilities -------------- -------------- 1,490,099,829 1,406,341,238 -------------- -------------- Corporation obligated mandatorily redeemable capital securities 25,000,000 25,000,000 -------------- -------------- Shareholders' equity Preferred stock, $5 par value. Authorized 644,389 shares; Series D issued 226,026 and 232,206 shares, respectively 2,260,260 2,322,060 Common stock, $1 par value. Authorized 20,000,000 shares; issued 16,241,509 and 16,107,005 shares, respectively 16,241,509 16,107,005 Capital surplus 142,381,059 140,512,359 Retained earnings 14,218,650 3,783,539 Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax 738,604 1,330,239 -------------- -------------- 175,840,082 164,055,202 Less Common shares in treasury at cost, 1,306,587 and 1,261,061 shares, respectively 33,577,847 32,400,952 Unearned compensation 1,316,916 1,873,926 -------------- -------------- Total shareholders' equity 140,945,319 129,780,324 -------------- -------------- $1,656,045,148 $1,561,121,562 ============== ============== See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. 3 STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited) Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30, September 30, 2003 2002 2003 2002 ---- ---- ---- ---- INTEREST INCOME Loans $ 15,877,296 $ 14,547,213 $ 46,018,048 $ 42,959,229 Investment securities Available for sale 2,260,320 4,174,794 7,166,906 12,764,113 Held to maturity 4,201,130 4,942,536 14,830,069 14,742,343 Federal funds sold 5,282 44,352 45,184 225,341 Deposits with other banks 8,516 6,708 21,010 26,314 ------------- ------------ ------------ ------------ Total interest income 22,352,544 23,715,603 68,081,217 70,717,340 ------------- ------------ ------------ ------------ INTEREST EXPENSE Deposits 2,168,483 3,110,679 6,679,403 9,743,232 Securities sold under agreements to repurchase 339,686 285,533 1,022,538 1,064,734 Federal funds purchased 20,687 10,844 56,451 35,232 Commercial paper 65,653 156,643 191,722 515,699 Other short-term borrowings 85,754 135,132 416,363 372,880 Long-term debt 1,081,871 1,148,669 3,244,128 3,334,251 ------------- ------------ ------------ ------------ Total interest expense 3,762,134 4,847,500 11,610,605 15,066,028 ------------- ------------ ------------ ------------ Net interest income 18,590,410 18,868,103 56,470,612 55,651,312 Provision for loan losses 2,172,500 2,153,100 6,136,300 8,432,400 ------------- ------------ ------------ ------------ Net interest income after provision for loan losses 16,417,910 16,715,003 50,334,312 47,218,912 ------------- ------------ ------------ ------------ NONINTEREST INCOME Factoring income 1,630,993 1,807,632 4,394,174 4,736,535 Mortgage banking income 3,974,329 2,381,723 10,907,866 7,594,777 Service charges on deposit accounts 1,192,668 1,300,524 3,694,448 3,688,455 Trade finance income 631,816 797,794 1,793,460 1,875,722 Trust fees 138,891 124,334 469,339 475,994 Other service charges and fees 512,484 416,389 1,479,198 1,459,326 Bank owned life insurance income 252,241 298,185 790,221 814,366 Securities gains 101,225 24,947 297,583 869,290 Other income 300,626 141,854 478,581 426,155 ------------- ------------ ------------ ------------ Total noninterest income 8,735,273 7,293,382 24,304,870 21,940,620 ------------- ------------ ------------ ------------ NONINTEREST EXPENSES Salaries and employee benefits 8,870,906 8,253,632 25,917,144 24,334,467 Occupancy expenses, net 1,100,625 1,294,747 3,630,877 3,793,331 Equipment expenses 680,052 602,868 2,046,141 1,964,564 Advertising and marketing 864,385 895,641 2,514,768 2,522,137 Professional fees 837,434 848,642 2,463,423 2,337,445 Data processing fees 255,157 259,246 780,211 987,161 Stationery and printing 230,368 296,386 675,483 838,699 Communications 381,503 403,992 1,230,182 1,196,668 Mortgage tax expense 321,407 157,017 755,983 518,981 Capital securities costs 538,116 534,449 1,609,682 1,268,114 Other expenses 1,263,951 1,360,460 4,179,814 4,613,640 ------------- ------------ ------------ ------------ Total noninterest expenses 15,343,904 14,907,080 45,803,708 44,375,207 ------------- ------------ ------------ ------------ Income before income taxes 9,809,279 9,101,305 28,835,474 24,784,325 Provision for income taxes 3,694,566 3,556,613 11,014,336 8,742,723 ------------- ------------ ------------ ------------ Net income $ 6,114,713 $ 5,544,692 $ 17,821,138 $ 16,041,602 ============= ============ ============ ============ Average number of common shares outstanding Basic 14,908,734 14,878,820 14,867,562 14,978,045 Diluted 15,786,843 15,668,297 15,731,877 15,858,293 Earnings per average common share Basic $ 0.41 $ 0.38 $ 1.19 $ 1.07 Diluted 0.39 0.36 1.13 1.01 Dividends per common share 0.19 0.18 0.57 0.54 See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. 4 STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited) Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30, September 30, 2003 2002 2003 2002 ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ Net Income $ 6,114,713 $ 5,544,692 $ 17,821,138 $ 16,041,602 Other comprehensive income, net of tax: Unrealized holding (losses) gains arising during the period (19,418) 1,664,427 (430,643) 3,335,346 Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income (54,762) (13,496) (160,992) (470,286) ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ Comprehensive income $ 6,040,533 $ 7,195,623 $ 17,229,503 $ 18,906,662 ============ ============ ============ ============ See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. 5 STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders' Equity (Unaudited) Nine Months Ended September 30, 2003 2002 ------------ ------------ Preferred Stock Balance at January 1 $ 2,322,060 $ 2,346,060 Conversions of Series D shares (61,800) (23,010) ------------ ------------ Balance at September 30 $ 2,260,260 $ 2,323,050 ============ ============ Common Stock Balance at January 1 $ 16,107,005 $ 13,817,856 Conversions of preferred shares into common shares 9,759 2,919 Options exercised 124,745 310,920 ------------ ------------ Balance at September 30 $ 16,241,509 $ 14,131,695 ============ ============ Capital Surplus Balance at January 1 $140,512,359 $ 95,504,762 Conversions of preferred shares into common shares 52,041 20,091 Issuance of shares under incentive compensation plan - 386,400 Options exercised 1,849,017 3,851,051 Stock split paid - cash in lieu (32,358) - ------------ ------------ Balance at September 30 $142,381,059 $ 99,762,304 ============ ============ Retained Earnings Balance at January 1 $ 3,783,539 $ 32,419,767 Net Income 17,821,138 16,041,602 Cash dividends paid - common shares (7,291,756) (5,342,879) - preferred shares (94,271) (84,627) ------------ ------------ Balance at September 30 $ 14,218,650 $ 43,033,863 ============ ============ Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Balance at January 1 $ 1,330,239 $ 1,119,223 ------------ ------------ Unrealized holding (losses) gains arising during the period: Before tax (796,012) 6,165,148 Tax effect 365,369 (2,829,802) ------------ ------------ Net of tax (430,643) 3,335,346 ------------ ------------ Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income: Before tax (297,583) (869,290) Tax effect 136,591 399,004 ------------ ------------ Net of tax (160,992) (470,286) ------------ ------------ Balance at September 30 $ 738,604 $ 3,984,283 ============ ============ Treasury Stock Balance at January 1 $(32,400,952) $(15,542,454) Issuance of shares under incentive compensation plan - 1,267,200 Surrender of shares issued under incentive compensation plan (920,888) (3,034,547) Purchase of common shares (256,007) (15,125,672) ------------ ------------ Balance at September 30 $(33,577,847) $(32,435,473) ============ ============ Unearned Compensation Balance at January 1 $ (1,873,926) $ (1,187,798) Issuance of shares under incentive compensation plan - (1,653,600) Amortization of unearned compensation 557,010 528,362 ------------ ------------ Balance at September 30 $ (1,316,916) $ (2,313,036) ============ ============ Total Shareholders' Equity Balance at January 1 $129,780,324 $128,477,416 Net changes during the period 11,164,995 9,270 ------------ ------------ Balance at September 30 $140,945,319 $128,486,686 ============ ============ See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. 6 STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) Nine Months Ended September 30, 2003 2002 ------------- ------------- Operating Activities Net Income $ 17,821,138 $ 16,041,602 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities: Provision for loan losses 6,136,300 8,432,400 Depreciation and amortization of premises and equipment 1,272,483 1,263,032 Securities gains (297,583) (869,290) Income from bank owned life insurance (790,221) (814,366) Deferred income tax (benefit) provision (262,891) 435,151 Net change in loans held for sale (24,662,600) 15,509,693 Amortization of unearned compensation 557,010 528,362 Amortization of premiums on securities 1,905,331 1,042,469 Accretion of discounts on securities (968,109) (666,212) (Increase) Decrease in accrued interest receivable (701,001) 120,319 Increase in accrued expenses and other liabilities 1,887,842 7,413,628 Increase in other assets (4,708,668) (20,289,623) Issuance cost for preferred securities, net of amortization - (916,667) Other, net (884,852) (3,355,789) ------------- ------------- Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities (3,695,821) 23,874,709 ------------- ------------- Investing Activities Purchase of premises and equipment (1,120,058) (1,972,995) Decrease in interest-bearing deposits with other banks 425,800 581,423 Decrease in Federal funds sold 5,000,000 10,000,000 Increase in other real estate (200,917) (189,484) Net increase in loans held in portfolio (90,713,494) (44,761,376) Proceeds from prepayments, redemptions or maturities of securities - held to maturity 214,664,362 69,589,504 Purchases of securities - held to maturity (155,024,448) (83,926,203) Purchases of securities - available for sale (373,835,784) (163,152,563) Proceeds from sales of securities - available for sale 9,767,421 39,923,354 Proceeds from prepayments, redemptions or maturities of securities - available for sale 308,043,037 127,859,277 ------------- ------------- Net cash used in investing activities (82,994,081) (46,049,063) ------------- ------------- Financing Activities Decrease in noninterest-bearing deposits (1,619,336) (30,060,270) Increase in interest-bearing deposits 49,791,047 79,161,126 Net proceeds from issuance of Corporation Obligated Mandatorily Redeemable Preferred Securities - 24,062,500 Increase (Decrease) in securities sold under agreements to repurchase 42,700,897 (69,021,841) (Decrease) Increase in commercial paper and other short-term borrowings (10,448,290) 3,839,031 Purchase of treasury stock (256,007) (15,125,672) Increase in other long-term debt - 29,650,000 Proceeds from exercise of stock options 1,973,762 4,161,971 Cash dividends paid on common and preferred stock (7,386,027) (5,427,506) Cash paid in lieu of fractional shares in connection with stock, split (32,358) -- ------------- ------------- Net cash provided by financing activities 74,723,688 21,239,339 ------------- ------------- Net decrease in cash and due from banks (11,966,214) (935,015) Cash and due from banks - beginning of period 58,173,569 50,362,016 ------------- ------------- Cash and due from banks - end of period $ 46,207,355 $ 49,427,001 ============= ============= Supplemental disclosures : Interest paid $ 12,080,996 $ 15,707,793 Income taxes paid 9,886,194 9,678,303 See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. 7 STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) 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, 2003 and 2002 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 2002 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, 2002. The Company effected a stock split and paid stock dividends as follows: a five-for-four stock split on September 10,2003; a 20% stock dividend on December 9, 2002; a 10% stock dividend on December 10, 2001; a 10% stock dividend on December 11, 2000; and a 5% stock dividend on December 14, 1999. Fractional shares were cashed-out and payments were made to shareholders in lieu of fractional shares. All capital and share amounts as well as basic and diluted average number of shares outstanding and earnings per average common share information for all prior reporting periods have been restated to reflect the effect of the stock split and stock dividends. 2. At September 30, 2003, the Company has a stock-based employee compensation plan, which is described more fully in Note 15 of the Company's annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002. The Company accounts for this plan under the recognition and measurement principles of APB Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees," and related Interpretations. No stock-based employee compensation cost is reflected in net income, as all options granted under those plans had an exercise price equal to the market value of the underlying common stock on the date of grant. In accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 148, the following table illustrates the effect on net income and earnings per average common share if the Company had applied the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation," to the stock-based employee compensation plans. Three Months Ended September 30, 2003 2002 -------------------------------- ------------- ------------- Net income available for common shareholders $ 6,083,586 $ 5,516,619 Deduct: Total stock-based employee compensation expense determined under fair value based method for all awards, net of related tax effects (311,675) (228,216) ------------- ------------- Pro forma, net income $ 5,771,911 $ 5,288,403 ============= ============= Earnings per average common share: Basic- as reported $ 0.41 $ 0.38 Basic- pro forma 0.39 0.36 Diluted- as reported 0.39 0.36 Diluted- pro forma 0.37 0.34 8 STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) Nine Months Ended September 30, 2003 2002 ------------------------------- -------------- -------------- Net income available for common shareholders $ 17,726,867 $ 15,956,975 Deduct: Total stock-based employee compensation expense determined under fair value based method for all awards, net of related tax effects (898,330) (646,906) -------------- -------------- Pro forma, net income $ 16,828,537 $ 15,310,069 ============== ============== Earnings per average common share: Basic- as reported $ 1.19 $ 1.07 Basic- pro forma 1.13 1.02 Diluted- as reported 1.13 1.01 Diluted- pro forma 1.07 0.97 3. The major components of domestic loans held for sale and loans held in portfolio are as follows: September 30, --------------------------- 2003 2002 ------------ ------------ Loans held for sale Real estate-mortgage $ 79,347,587 $ 33,093,148 ============ ============ Loans held in portfolio Commercial and industrial $545,054,019 $512,010,007 Lease financing 161,508,913 138,260,101 Real estate-mortgage 153,802,839 124,678,125 Real estate-construction 2,380,603 - Installment 13,977,231 9,016,972 Loans to depository institutions 20,000,000 27,000,000 ------------ ------------ Loans, gross 896,723,605 810,965,205 Less unearned discounts 19,944,510 15,768,137 ------------ ------------ Loans, net of unearned discounts $876,779,095 $795,197,068 ============ ============ 4. The Company's outstanding Preferred Shares comprise 226,026 Series D shares (of 300,000 Series D shares authorized). 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 1.9084 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). 9 STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) 5. The Financial Accounting Standards Board 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. The Company provides a wide 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 2003 year-to-date average interest-earning assets were 59.2% loans (corporate lending was 71.1% and real estate lending was 26.2% of total loans, respectively) and 40.8% investment securities and money market investments. There are no industry concentrations exceeding 10% of loans, gross, in the corporate loan portfolio. Approximately 76% of loans are to borrowers located in the metropolitan New York area. In order to comply with the provisions of SFAS No. 131, 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, 2003 and 2002: Corporate Real Estate Company-wide Lending Lending Treasury Totals -------------- -------------- -------------- -------------- Three Months Ended September 30, 2003 ------------------------------------- Net interest income $ 8,678,941 $ 4,574,622 $ 4,905,056 $ 18,158,619 Noninterest income 3,285,616 4,038,713 428,095 7,752,424 Depreciation and amortization 65,875 81,167 - 147,042 Segment profit 4,440,415 3,446,438 5,446,923 13,333,776 Segment assets 703,324,770 240,461,682 680,766,352 1,624,552,804 Three Months Ended September 30, 2002 ------------------------------------- Net interest income $ 7,530,877 $ 3,436,493 $ 7,487,737 $ 18,455,107 Noninterest income 3,720,570 2,403,740 349,942 6,474,252 Depreciation and amortization 48,060 52,189 - 100,249 Segment profit 4,625,923 2,571,043 7,873,208 15,070,174 Segment assets 642,150,423 165,103,648 696,465,329 1,503,719,400 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2003 ------------------------------------- Net interest income $ 25,443,875 $ 12,502,274 $ 17,272,610 $ 55,218,759 Noninterest income 9,313,652 11,105,877 1,207,765 21,627,294 Depreciation and amortization 154,512 235,559 - 390,071 Segment profit 13,086,427 10,762,855 18,396,491 42,245,773 Segment assets 703,324,770 240,461,682 680,766,352 1,624,552,804 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2002 ------------------------------------- Net interest income $ 21,805,357 $ 10,068,686 $ 22,594,118 $ 54,468,161 Noninterest income 9,729,831 7,578,130 1,750,153 19,058,114 Depreciation and amortization 141,559 146,332 - 287,891 Segment profit 12,439,592 8,342,383 24,618,085 45,400,060 Segment assets 642,150,423 165,103,648 696,465,329 1,503,719,400 10 STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) 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, ---------------------------------- ---------------------------------- 2003 2002 2003 2002 --------------- --------------- --------------- --------------- Net interest income: Total for reportable operating segments $ 18,158,619 $ 18,455,107 $ 55,218,759 $ 54,468,161 Other (1) 431,791 412,996 1,251,853 1,183,151 --------------- --------------- --------------- --------------- Consolidated net interest income $ 18,590,410 $ 18,868,103 $ 56,470,612 $ 55,651,312 =============== =============== =============== =============== Noninterest income: Total for reportable operating segments $ 7,752,424 $ 6,474,252 $ 21,627,294 $ 19,058,114 Other (1) 982,849 819,130 2,677,576 2,882,506 --------------- --------------- --------------- --------------- Consolidated noninterest income $ 8,735,273 $ 7,293,382 $ 24,304,870 $ 21,940,620 =============== =============== =============== =============== Profit: Total for reportable operating segments $ 13,333,776 $ 15,070,174 $ 42,245,773 $ 45,400,060 Other (1) (3,524,497) (5,968,869) (13,410,299) (20,615,735) --------------- --------------- --------------- --------------- Consolidated income before income taxes $ 9,809,279 $ 9,101,305 $ 28,835,474 $ 24,784,325 =============== =============== =============== =============== Assets: Total for reportable operating segments $ 1,624,552,804 $ 1,503,719,400 $ 1,624,552,804 $ 1,503,719,400 Other (1) 31,492,344 26,058,056 31,492,344 26,058,056 --------------- --------------- --------------- --------------- Consolidated assets $ 1,656,045,148 $ 1,529,777,456 $ 1,656,045,148 $ 1,529,777,456 =============== =============== =============== =============== (1) Represents operations not considered to be a reportable segment and/or general operating expenses of the Company. 11 STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) 6. The following information is provided in connection with the sales of available for sale securities: Three Months Ended September 30, 2003 2002 -------------------------------- --------------- --------------- Proceeds $ 1,297,334 $ 354,838 Gross Gains 101,225 24,947 Gross Losses - - Nine Months Ended September 30, 2003 2002 ------------------------------- --------------- --------------- Proceeds $ 9,767,421 $ 39,923,354 Gross Gains 297,583 869,290 Gross Losses - - 7. FASB Interpretation ("FIN") No. 46, "Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities, an interpretation of ARB No. 51", establishes accounting guidance for consolidation of variable interest entities ("VIE") that function to support the activities of the primary beneficiary. The primary beneficiary of the VIE entity is the entity that absorbs a majority of the VIE's expected losses, receives a majority of the VIE's expected residual returns, or both, as a result of ownership, controlling interest, contractual relationship or other business relationships with a VIE. Prior to the implementation of FIN No.46, VIE's were generally consolidated by an enterprise when the enterprise had a controlling financial interest through ownership of a majority of voting interest in the entity. The provisions of FIN No.46 were effective immediately for all arrangements entered into after January 31, 2003, and are otherwise effective at the beginning of the first interim period beginning after June 15, 2003. In October 2003, the FASB issued a staff position which delayed the effective date of FIN No. 46 for a public entity until the end of the first interim or annual period ending after December 15, 2003 (as of December 31, 2003, for an entity with a calendar year-end or quarter-end of December 31) provided that the VIE was created before February 1, 2003 and the public entity has not issued financial statements reporting that VIE in accordance with FIN No.46 other than certain disclosures required by paragraph 26 of FIN No.46. In its current form, FIN No.46 may require the Company to deconsolidate its investment in Sterling Bancorp Trust I in future financial statements. The potential de-consolidation of subsidiary trusts, like Sterling Bancorp Trust I, which the Company formed in connection with the issuance of corporation obligated mandatorily redeemable capital securities ("trust preferred securities") appears to be an unintended consequence of FIN No. 46. It is currently unknown if, or when, the Financial Accounting Standards Board will address this issue. In July 2003, the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System issued a supervisory letter instructing bank holding companies to continue to include the trust preferred securities in their Tier I capital for regulatory capital purposes until notice is given to the contrary. 12 STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) The Federal Reserve intends to review the regulatory implications of any accounting treatment changes and, if necessary or warranted, provide further appropriate guidance. There can be no assurance that the Federal Reserve will continue to allow institutions to include trust preferred securities in Tier I capital for regulatory capital purposes. As of September 30, 2003, assuming the Company was not allowed to include the $25 million in trust preferred securities issued by Sterling Bancorp Trust I in Tier I capital, the Company would still exceed the regulatory required minimums for capital adequacy purposes (See Regulatory Capital and Ratios on page 28). If the trust preferred securities were no longer allowed to be included in Tier 1 capital, the Company would also be permitted to redeem the capital securities, which bear interest at 8.375 percent, without penalty. SFAS No.150, "Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments with Characteristics of both Liabilities and Equity", establishes standards for how an issuer clarifies, measures and discloses in its financial statements certain financial instruments with characteristics of both liabilities and equity. SFAS No.150 requires that an issuer classify financial instruments that are within its scope as liabilities, in most circumstances. Such financial instruments include shares that are mandatorily redeemable. On November 5, 2003 the implementation of SFAS No.150 with respect to the $25,000,000 of corporation obligated mandatorily redeemable capital securities was postponed by FASB for an indefinite period. 13 ITEM 2. 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 financial holding company pursuant to an election made under the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act of 1999, and its wholly-owned subsidiaries Sterling Banking Corporation, Sterling Financial Services Company, Inc., Sterling Bancorp Trust I, Sterling Real Estate Abstract Holding Company, Inc., and Sterling National Bank ("the bank"). The bank, which is the principal subsidiary, owns all of the outstanding shares of Sterling Factors Corporation, Sterling National Mortgage Company, Inc., Sterling National Servicing, Inc., Sterling Trade Services, Inc., and Sterling Holding Company of Virginia, Inc. Sterling Real Estate Abstract Holding Company, Inc. owns 51% of the outstanding common shares of SBC Abstract Company LLC. Sterling Trade Services, Inc. owns all of the outstanding common shares of Sterling National Asia Limited, Hong Kong. Sterling Holding Company of Virginia, Inc. owns all of the outstanding common shares of Sterling Real Estate Holding Company, Inc. Throughout this discussion and analysis, the term "the Company" refers to Sterling Bancorp and its subsidiaries. This discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and supplemental data contained elsewhere in this quarterly report as well as the Company's annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002. The Company effected a five - for - four stock split on September 10, 2003; all capital and share amounts as well as basic and diluted average number of shares outstanding and earnings per share information for prior periods have been restated to reflect the effect of the stock split. Our Internet address is www.sterlingbancorp.com and the investor relations section of our web site is located at www.sterlingbancorp.com/ir/investor.cfm. We make available free of charge, on or through the investor relations section of our web site, annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such material with, or furnish it to, the Securities and Exchange Commission. CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS Certain statements contained herein, including but not limited to, statements concerning future results of operations or financial position, borrowing capacity and future liquidity, future investment results, future credit exposure, future loan losses and plans and objectives for future operations, and other statements contained herein regarding matters that are not historical facts, are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. 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 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 impact 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 14 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 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 forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time. BUSINESS Sterling provides a full range of financial products and services, including business and consumer loans, commercial and residential mortgage lending and brokerage, asset-based financing, factoring/accounts receivable management services, trade financing, equipment leasing, deposit services, trust and estate administration and investment management services. The Company has operations in the metropolitan New York area, North Carolina 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. The Company competes with banks and other financial institutions, including savings and loan associations, savings banks, finance companies, and credit unions. To a limited extent, the company also competes with other providers of financial services, such as money market mutual funds, brokerage firms, consumer finance companies and insurance companies. Competition is based on a number of factors, including prices, interest rates, service, availability of products, and geographic location. At September 30, 2003, the bank's year-to- date average earning assets represented approximately 97% of the Company's year- to-date average earning assets. Loans represented 58% and investment securities represented 41% of the bank's year-to-date average earning assets at September 30, 2003. 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, 2003 and 2002 -------------------------------------------------------------- OVERVIEW The Company reported net income for the three months ended September 30, 2003 of $6.1 million, representing $0.39 per share, calculated on a diluted basis, compared to $5.5 million, or $0.36 per share, calculated on a diluted basis, for the corresponding period in 2002. This increase reflects higher noninterest income and lower noninterest expenses, which more than offset lower net interest income. Net interest income, on a tax equivalent basis, decreased to $18.8 million for the third quarter of 2003 compared to $19.1 million for the same period 15 in 2002, primarily due to lower average yield on earning assets partially offset by higher average earning assets outstanding. The net interest margin, on a tax equivalent basis, was 5.16% for the third quarter of 2003 compared to 5.79% for the corresponding 2002 period. The net interest margin was impacted by a decrease of 107 basis points in the average yield on earning assets partially offset by a decrease of 54 basis points in the average cost of funds. Noninterest income increased to $8.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 2003 compared to $7.3 million for the corresponding 2002 period principally due to higher income from mortgage banking activities partially offset by lower income generated for various other services. 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 and liabilities. 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 26. Information as to the components of interest income and interest expense and average rates is provided in the Average Balance Sheets shown on page 24. Net interest income, on a tax equivalent basis, for the three months ended September 30, 2003 decreased to $18,831,000 from $19,117,000 for the corresponding period in 2002. Total interest income, on a tax equivalent basis, aggregated $22,592,000 for the third quarter of 2003 down from $23,964,000 for the same period of 2002. The tax equivalent yield on interest earning assets was 6.22% for the three months ended September 30, 2003 compared to 7.29% for the corresponding period in 2002. The decrease in interest income was due to a decrease in income earned on the securities portfolio partially offset by increased income on the loan portfolio. The decrease in yield on earning assets was due to lower yields on both the loan and securities portfolios. Interest earned on the loan portfolio amounted to $15,877,000 which was up $1,330,000 when compared to a year ago. Average loan balances amounted to $895,036,000 which were up $149,215,000 from an average of $745,821,000 in the prior year period. The increase in the average loans, the result of the continued implementation of business plans to increase funds employed in this asset category, was primarily in the real estate and the lease finance segments of the Company's loan portfolio. The decrease in the yield on the domestic loan portfolio to 7.18% for the three months ended September 30, 2003 from 8.25% for the corresponding 2002 period was primarily attributable to a lower rate environment on average in the 2003 period and the mix of outstanding balances on average among the components of the loan portfolio. Interest earned on the securities portfolio, on a tax equivalent basis, decreased to $6,701,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2003 from $9,367,000 in the prior year period. Average outstandings decreased to $558,579,000 from $593,295,000 in the prior year period. The yield on the securities portfolio decreased to 4.83% for the three months ended September 30, 2003 from 6.31% for the corresponding 2002 period principally as the result of higher prepayments from mortgage-backed securities and the reinvestment of a portion of those funds into lower yielding securities at positive spreads over funding costs. 16 Interest expense on deposits decreased $943,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2003 to $2,168,000 from $3,111,000 for the corresponding 2002 period principally due to lower rates paid. Average rate paid on interest-bearing deposits was 1.26% which was 53 basis points lower than the prior year period. The decrease in average cost of deposits reflects the lower interest rate environment during the 2003 period. Noninterest Income Noninterest income increased $1,442,000 for the third quarter of 2003 when compared to the corresponding 2002 period primarily as a result of increased income from mortgage banking activities partially offset by decreased income from factoring, trade finance, and deposit services. Noninterest Expenses Noninterest expenses increased $437,000 for the third quarter of 2003 when compared to the corresponding 2002 period due to increased salary expenses, incurred to support growing levels of business activity and continued investment in the business franchise and higher pension costs. Partially offsetting those increases were lower expenses for occupancy. Results for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2003 and 2002 ----------------------------------------------------------------- OVERVIEW The Company reported net income for the nine months ended September 30,2003 of $17.8 million, representing $1.13 per share, calculated on a diluted basis, compared to $16.0 million, or $1.01 per share calculated on a diluted basis, for the corresponding period in 2002. This increase reflects continued growth in both net interest income and noninterest income, which, together with a lower provision for loan losses, more than offset increases in noninterest expenses and the provision for income taxes. Net interest income, on a tax equivalent basis, increased to $57.2 million for the first nine months of 2003 compared to $56.4 million for the corresponding period in 2002, due to higher average earning assets outstanding coupled with lower average cost of funding. The net interest margin, on a tax equivalent basis, was 5.51% for the first nine months of 2003 compared to 5.81% for the corresponding 2002 period. The net interest margin was impacted by a decrease of 74 basis points in the average yield on earning assets partially offset by a 56 basis point decrease in the average cost of funds. Noninterest income rose to $24.3 million for the nine months ended September 30,2003 compared to $21.9 million for the corresponding 2002 period principally due to continued growth in fees from mortgage banking activities partially offset by reductions in fees for various other services and in gains on sales of available for sale securities. The provision for loan losses was $6.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 compared to $8.4 million for the corresponding 2002 period while the provision for income taxes increased to $11.0 million in the 2003 nine month period from $8.7 million in the corresponding 2002 period. 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 17 assets and liabilities. 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 27. Information as to the components of interest income and interest expense and average rates is provided in the Average Balance Sheets shown on page 25. Net interest income, on a tax equivalent basis, for the nine months ended September 30,2003 increased $783,000 to $57,208,000 from $56,425,000 for the corresponding period in 2002. Total interest income, on a tax equivalent basis, aggregated $68,818,000 down $2,673,000 for the first nine months of 2003 as compared to $71,491,000 for the same period of 2002. The tax equivalent yield on interest-earning assets was 6.64% for the first nine months of 2003 compared to 7.38% for the corresponding period in 2002. The decrease in interest income was due to a decrease in income earned on the securities portfolio partially offset by increased income on the loan portfolio. The decrease in yield on earning assets was due to lower yields on both the loan and securities portfolios. Interest earned on the loan portfolio amounted to $46,018,000 which was up $3,059,000 compared to a year ago. Average loan balances amounted to $844,335,000 which were up $115,930,000 from an average of $728,405,000 in the prior year period. The increase in the average loans, the result of the continued implementation of business plans to increase funds employed in this asset category, was primarily in the real estate and the lease finance segments of the Company's loan portfolio. The decrease in the yield on the domestic loan portfolio to 7.68% for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 from 8.51% for the corresponding 2002 period was primarily attributable to a lower rate environment on average in the 2002 period and the mix of outstanding balance on average among the components of the loan portfolio. Interest earned on the securities portfolio, on a tax equivalent basis, decreased to $22,734,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 from $28,281,000 in the prior year period. Average outstandings decreased to $573,390,000 from $596,204,000 in the prior year period. The yield on the securities portfolio decreased to 5.29% for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 from 6.33% for the corresponding 2002 period principally as the result of higher prepayments from mortgage-backed securities and the reinvestment of a portion of those funds into lower yielding securities at positive spreads over funding costs. Interest expense on deposits decreased $3,064,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 to $6,679,000 from $9,743,000 for the corresponding 2002 period principally due to lower rates paid. Average rate paid on interest-bearing deposits was 1.33% which was 60 basis points lower than the prior year period. The decrease in average cost of deposits reflects the lower interest rate environment during the 2003 period. Interest expense associated with borrowed funds decreased to $4,931,000 for the first nine months of 2003 from $5,323,000 in the comparable 2002 period as the result of lower rates paid for borrowings partially offset by higher average borrowed funds. The average amounts of borrowed funds was $284,126,000 for the first nine months of 2003 compared to $249,126,000 for the same 2002 period. Average rate paid for borrowings decreased to 2.32% for the first nine months of 2003 from 2.85% for the corresponding year ago period. The decrease in average costs of borrowings reflects the lower rate environment during the 2003 period. Provision for Loan Losses Based on management's continuing evaluation of the loan portfolio (discussed under "BALANCE SHEET ANALYSIS - Asset Quality" below) and growth in the loan portfolios, the provision for loan losses for the first nine months of 2003 was $6,136,000. The provision for the corresponding prior year period was $8,432,000. During the prior year second quarter a $5.4 million loan to a corporate borrower which had become the subject of an involuntary bankruptcy was charged-off. 18 Noninterest Income Noninterest income increased $2,364,000 for the first nine months of 2003 when compared to the corresponding 2002 period primarily as a result of increased income from mortgage banking activities. Partially offsetting those increases, were reductions in income from various other services and from gains on sales of available for sale securities. Noninterest Expenses Noninterest expenses increased $1,429,000 for the first nine months of 2003 when compared to the corresponding 2002 period primarily due to increased salary expenses, pension costs, and professional fees, incurred to support growing levels of business activity and continued investment in the business franchise coupled with higher capital securities costs. Partially offsetting those increases were reductions in costs for occupancy, for data processing, for stationery and printing, for capital securities and for various other operating expenses. Provision for Income Taxes The provision for income taxes was $11,014,000 for the first nine months of 2003 compared to $8,743,000 for the corresponding 2002 period reflecting the increase in pretax income in the current year period. A further contributing factor to the variance in the provision was that New York State completed an examination of Sterling's tax returns through 1998 and issued a no charge finding during the second quarter of 2002. As a result, based on management's review of required tax reserves with outside professionals, approximately $1.0 million in excess reserves was adjusted through the provision in the 2002 quarter. BALANCE SHEET ANALYSIS Securities The Company's securities portfolios are comprised of principally U.S. Government corporation and agency guaranteed mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations along with other debt and equity securities. At September 30, 2003, the Company's portfolio of securities totaled $583,427,000 of which U.S. Government corporation and agency guaranteed mortgage-backed and collateralized mortgage obligations securities having an average life of approximately 2.6 years amounted to $514,168,000. 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 Gross Amortized Unrealized Unrealized Market September 30, 2003 Cost Gains Losses Value ------------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ U.S. Treasury securities $ 2,499,686 $ 24 $ 179 $ 2,499,531 Obligations of U.S. govern- ment corporations and agencies--mortgage-backed securities 175,710,076 3,606,585 168,578 179,148,083 Obligations of U.S. govern- ment corporations and agencies--collateralized mortgage obligations 28,019,116 58,933 633,025 27,445,024 Obligations of state and political institutions 30,901,496 2,245,445 _ 33,146,941 Trust preferred securities 3,221,680 435,869 _ 3,657,549 Other debt securities 20,000,000 _ _ 20,000,000 Federal Reserve Bank and other equity securities 8,686,142 18,408 349 8,704,201 ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ Total $269,038,196 $ 6,365,264 $ 802,131 $274,601,329 ============ ============ ============ ============ 19 Given the generally high credit quality of the portfolio, management expects to realize all of its investment upon the maturity of such instruments, and thus believes that any market value impairment is temporary in nature. 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, 2003 Value Gains Losses Value ------------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ Obligations of U.S. govern- ment corporations and agencies -- mortgage-backed securities $217,425,062 $ 6,779,332 $ 204,874 $223,999,520 Obligations of U.S. govern- ment corporations and agencies--collateralized mortgage obligations 90,150,207 292,783 1,160,834 89,282,156 Debt securities issued by Foreign governments 1,250,000 - - 1,250,000 ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ Total $308,825,269 $ 7,072,115 $ 1,365,708 $314,531,676 ============ ============ ============ ============ 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 57% of loans, net of unearned discounts. Loans in this category are typically made to small and medium sized businesses and range between $250,000 and $10 million. The primary source of repayment is from the borrower's operating profits and cash flows. Based on underwriting standards, loans may be secured in whole or in part by collateral such as accounts receivable, inventory, marketable securities, other liquid collateral, equipment and/or other assets. The Company's real estate loan portfolio, which represents approximately 25% of loans, net of unearned discounts, is secured by mortgages on real property located principally in the States of New York and Virginia. The Company's leasing portfolio, which consists of finance leases for various types of business equipment, represents approximately 15% of loans, net of unearned discounts. The collateral securing any loan may vary in value based on market conditions. 20 The following table sets forth the composition of the Company's loans held for sale and loans held in portfolio: September 30, ------------------------------------ 2003 2002 ---------------- ---------------- ($ in thousands) % of % of Balances Gross Balances Gross -------- ----- -------- ----- Domestic Commercial and industrial $544,409 56.9% $511,286 61.7% Equipment lease financing 142,223 14.9 123,256 14.9 Real estate 235,526 24.6 157,753 19.0 Installment - individuals 13,969 1.5 8,995 1.1 Loans to depository institutions 20,000 2.1 27,000 3.3 -------- ----- -------- ----- Loans, net of unearned discounts $956,127 100.0% $828,290 100.0% ======== ===== ======== ===== 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 loan losses is maintained through the provision for loan losses, which is a charge to operating earnings. The adequacy of the provision and the resulting allowance for loan 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, 2003, the ratio of the allowance to loans held in portfolio, net of unearned discounts, was 1.65% and the allowance was $14,436,000. At such date, the Company's non-accrual loans amounted to $2,617,000; $802,000 of such loans were judged to be impaired within the scope of SFAS No. 114 and required valuation allowances of $375,000. 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 loan losses was deemed adequate to absorb all estimable losses on specifically known and other possible credit risks associated with the portfolio as of September 30, 2003. 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 $941,000 at September 30, 2003. 21 Deposits A significant source of funds for the Company continues to be deposits, consisting of demand (noninterest-bearing), NOW, savings, money market and time deposits (principally certificates of deposit). The following table provides certain information with respect to the Company's deposits: September 30, ----------------------------------------- 2003 2002 ------------------ ------------------- ($ in thousands) % of % of Balances Total Balances Total -------- ----- -------- ----- Domestic Demand $ 399,934 36.5% $ 326,243 31.6% NOW 116,601 10.6 114,107 11.0 Savings 27,264 2.5 24,997 2.4 Money market 175,345 16.0 175,990 17.0 Time deposits 373,121 34.1 389,688 37.7 ---------- ----- ---------- ------ Total domestic deposits 1,092,265 99.7 1,031,025 99.7 Foreign Time deposits 3,000 0.3 3,000 0.3 ---------- ----- ---------- ------ Total deposits $1,095,265 100.0% $1,034,025 100.0% ========== ===== ========== ====== 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 customers' balance sheet strategies. Historically, however, average balances for deposits have been relatively stable. Information regarding these average balances is presented on pages 24 and 25. 22 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 28. In addition, the Company and the bank are subject to 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. Under FDICIA a "well capitalized" institution must maintain minimum leverage, Tier 1 and Total Capital ratios of 5%, 6% and 10%, respectively. At September 30, 2003, the Company and the bank exceeded the requirements for "well capitalized" institutions. Under 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." 23 STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES Average Balance Sheets [1] Three Months Ended September 30, (dollars in thousands) 2003 2002 ------------------------------------- ----------------------------- Average Average Average Average Balance Interest Rate Balance Interest Rate --------------- -------- ------- ----------- -------- ------- ASSETS Interest-bearing deposits with other banks $ 4,244 $ 9 0.98% $ 3,067 $ 6 0.87% Securities available for sale 171,712 1,917 4.58 246,248 3,817 6.20 Securities held to maturity 355,463 4,201 4.73 314,303 4,943 6.29 Securities tax-exempt [2] 31,404 583 7.37 32,744 607 7.35 Federal funds sold 2,065 5 1.00 10,185 44 1.70 Loans, net of unearned discounts [3] 895,036 15,877 7.18 745,821 14,547 8.25 --------------- ------- ----------- ------- TOTAL INTEREST-EARNING ASSETS 1,459,924 22,592 6.22% 1,352,368 23,964 7.29% ------- ==== ------- ==== Cash and due from banks 60,229 52,606 Allowance for loan losses (15,004) (12,961) Goodwill 21,158 21,158 Other assets 62,482 55,046 --------------- ----------- TOTAL ASSETS $ 1,588,789 $ 1,468,217 =============== =========== LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Interest-bearing deposits Domestic Savings $ 27,561 24 0.34% $ 24,380 39 0.63% NOW 125,470 141 0.45 120,370 230 0.76 Money market 169,220 189 0.44 166,173 295 0.70 Time 356,358 1,803 2.01 374,160 2,533 2.69 Foreign Time 3,000 11 1.30 3,000 14 1.80 --------------- ------- ----------- ------- Total interest-bearing deposits 681,609 2,168 1.26 688,083 3,111 1.79 --------------- ------- ----------- ------- Borrowings Securities sold under agreements to repurchase - customers 77,980 235 1.20 58,279 272 1.85 Securities sold under agreements to repurchase - dealers 35,266 104 1.17 2,855 13 1.88 Federal funds purchased 7,228 21 1.14 2,304 11 1.87 Commercial paper 24,285 66 1.07 29,297 157 2.12 Other short-term debt 31,114 85 1.09 22,400 135 2.39 Long-term debt 115,000 1,082 3.76 125,000 1,148 3.67 --------------- ------- ----------- ------- Total borrowings 290,873 1,593 2.19 240,135 1,736 2.88 --------------- ------- ----------- ------- TOTAL INTEREST-BEARING LIABILITIES 972,482 3,761 1.54% 928,218 4,847 2.08% ------- ==== =========== ------- ==== Noninterest-bearing deposits 377,624 314,739 Other liabilities 77,606 76,096 --------------- ----------- Total liabilities 1,427,7l2 1,319,053 --------------- ----------- Corporation obligated mandatorily redeemable capital securities 25,000 25,000 --------------- ----------- Shareholders' equity 136,077 124,164 --------------- ----------- TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY $ 1,588,789 $ 1,468,217 =============== =========== Net interest income/spread 18,831 4.68% 19,117 5.21% ==== ==== Net yield on interest-earning assets (margin) 5.16% 5.79% ==== ==== Less: Tax equivalent adjustment 240 249 ------- ------- Net interest income $18,591 $18,868 ======= ======= [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 bean made to 2002 amounts to conform to the current presentation. [2] Interest on tax-exempt securities is presented on a tax equivalent basis. [3] Includes loans held for sale and loans held in portfolio; all loans are domestic. Nonaccrual loans are included in amounts outstanding and income has been included to the extent collected. 24 STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES Average Balance Sheets [1] Nine Months Ended September 30, (dollars in thousands) 2003 2002 ---------------------------------- --------------------------------- Average Average Average Average Balance Interest Rate Balance Interest Rate ------------ -------- ------ ---------- -------- ------- ASSETS Interest-bearing deposits with other banks $ 3,679 $ 21 0.76% $ 3,405 $ 26 1.03% Securities available for sale 162,294 6,110 5.02 252,417 11,655 6.16 Securities held to maturity 378,874 14,830 5.22 309,903 14,743 6.34 Securities tax-exempt [2] 32,222 1,794 7.44 33,884 1,883 7.43 Federal funds sold 5,044 45 1.18 17,791 225 1.67 Loans, net of unearned discounts [3] 844,335 46,018 7.68 728,405 42,959 8.51 ------------ ------- ---------- -------- TOTAL INTEREST-EARNING ASSETS 1,426,448 68,818 6.64% 1,345,805 71,491 7.38% ------- ==== -------- ==== Cash and due from banks 57,391 49,899 Allowance for loan losses (14,579) (14,119) Goodwill 21,158 21,158 Other assets 62,856 52,200 ------------ ---------- TOTAL ASSETS $ 1,553,274 $1,454,943 ============ ========== LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Interest-bearing deposits Domestic Savings $ 27,065 72 0.36% $ 26,072 123 0.63% NOW 118,907 438 0.49 110,514 694 0.84 Money market 160,835 565 0.47 165,386 1,086 0.88 Time 361,343 5,571 2.06 369,001 7,795 2.82 Foreign Time 3,000 33 1.48 2,999 45 2.00 ------------ ------- ---------- -------- Total interest-bearing deposits 671,150 6,679 1.33 673,972 9,743 1.93 ------------ ------- ---------- -------- Borrowings Securities sold under agreements to repurchase - customers 69,057 639 1.24 65,073 939 1.93 Securities sold under agreements to repurchase - dealers 40,198 384 1.28 9,019 126 1.86 Federal funds purchased 6,154 56 1.21 2,486 35 1.87 Commercial paper 22,758 192 1.13 31,982 516 2.16 Other short-term debt 30,959 416 1.80 21,014 373 2.37 Long-term debt 115,000 3,244 3.76 119,552 3,334 3.72 ------------ ------- ---------- -------- Total borrowings 284,126 4,931 2.32 249,126 5,323 2.85 ------------ ------- ---------- -------- TOTAL INTEREST-BEARING LIABILITIES 955,276 11,610 1.62% 923,098 15,066 2.18% ------- ===== -------- ===== Noninterest-bearing deposits 360,793 309,486 Other liabilities 78,893 76,760 ------------ ---------- Total liabilities 1,394,962 1,309,344 ------------ ---------- Corporation obligated mandatorily redeemable capital securities 25,000 19,780 ------------ ---------- Shareholders' equity 133,312 125,819 ------------ ---------- TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY $ 1,553,274 $1,454,943 ============ ========== Net interest income/spread 57,208 5.02% 56,425 5.20% ===== ===== Net yield on interest-earning assets (margin) 5.51% 5.81% ===== ===== Less: Tax equivalent adjustment 737 774 ------- -------- Net interest income $56,471 $ 55,651 ======= ======== [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 2002 amounts to conform to the current presentation. [2] Interest on tax-exempt securities is presented on a tax equivalent basis. [3] Includes loans held for sale and loans held in portfolio; all loans are domestic. Nonaccrual loans are included in amounts outstanding and income has been included to the extent collected. 25 STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES Rate/Volume Analysis [1] (in thousands) Increase/(Decrease) Three Months Ended September 30, 2003 to September 30, 2002 ------------------------------------------------ Volume Rate Net [2] ---------- ---------- ---------- INTEREST INCOME Interest-bearing deposits with other banks $ 2 $ 1 $ 3 ---------- ---------- ---------- Securities available for sale (1,020) (880) (1,900) Securities held to maturity 598 (1,340) (742) Securities tax-exempt (26) 2 (24) ---------- ---------- ---------- Total investment securities (448) (2,218) (2,666) ---------- ---------- ---------- Federal funds sold (26) (13) (39) Loans, net of unearned discounts [3] 3,247 (1,917) 1,330 ---------- ---------- ---------- TOTAL INTEREST INCOME $ 2,775 $ (4,147) $ (1,372) ========== ========== ========== INTEREST EXPENSE Interest-bearing deposits Domestic Savings $ 5 $ (20) $ (15) NOW 10 (99) (89) Money market 5 (111) (106) Time (116) (614) (730) Foreign Time -- (3) (3) ---------- ---------- ---------- Total interest-bearing deposits (96) (847) (943) ---------- ---------- ---------- Borrowings Securities sold under agreements to repurchase - customers 75 (112) (37) Securities sold under agreements to repurchase - dealers 98 (7) 91 Federal funds purchased 15 (5) 10 Commercial paper (23) (68) (91) Other short-term debt 40 (90) (50) Long-term debt (94) 28 (66) ---------- ---------- ---------- Total borrowings 111 (254) (143) ---------- ---------- ---------- TOTAL INTEREST EXPENSE $ 15 $ (1,101) $ (1,086) ========== ========== ========== NET INTEREST INCOME $ 2,760 $ (3,046) $ (286) ========== ========== ========== [1] The above table is presented on a tax equivalent basis. [2] Changes in interest income and interest expense due to a combination of both volume and rate have been allocated to the change due to volume and the change due to rate in proportion to the relationship of the change due solely to each. [3] Includes loans held for sale and loans held in portfolio; all loans are domestic. Nonaccrual loans are included in amounts outstanding and income has been included to the extent collected. 26 STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES Rate/Volume Analysis [1] (in thousands) Increase/ (Decrease) Nine Months Ended September 30, 2003 to September 30, 2002 ---------------------------------------- Volume Rate Net [2] ---------- ----------- ---------- INTEREST INCOME Interest-bearing deposits with other banks $ 2 $ (7) $ (5) ---------- ---------- ---------- Securities available for sale (3,652) (1,893) (5,545) Securities held to maturity 2,943 (2,856) 87 Securities tax-exempt (88) (1) (89) ---------- ---------- ---------- Total investment securities (797) (4,750) (5,547) ---------- ---------- ---------- Federal funds sold (128) (52) (180) Loans, net of unearned discounts [3] 7,504 (4,445) 3,059 ---------- ---------- ---------- TOTAL INTEREST INCOME $ 6,581 $ (9,254) $ (2,673) ========== ========== ========== INTEREST EXPENSE Interest-bearing deposits Domestic Savings $ 5 $ (56) $ (51) NOW 50 (306) (256) Money market (29) (492) (521) Time (159) (2,065) (2,224) Foreign Time - (12) (12) ---------- ---------- ---------- Total interest-bearing deposits (133) (2,931) (3,064) ---------- ---------- ---------- Borrowings Securities sold under agreements to repurchase - customers 55 (355) (300) Securities sold under agreements to repurchase - dealers 308 (50) 258 Federal funds purchased 36 (15) 21 Commercial paper (122) (202) (324) Other short-term debt 148 (105) 43 Long-term debt (126) 36 (90) ---------- ---------- ---------- Total borrowings 299 (691) (392) ---------- ---------- ---------- TOTAL INTEREST EXPENSE $ 166 $ (3,622) $ (3,456) ========== ========== ========== NET INTEREST INCOME $ 6,415 $ (5,632) $ 783 ========== ========== ========== [1] The above table is presented on a tax equivalent basis. [2] Changes in interest income and interest expense due to a combination of both volume and rate have been allocated to the change due to volume and the change due to rate in proportion to the relationship of the change due solely to each. [3] Includes loans held for sale and loans held in portfolio; all loans are domestic. Nonaccrual loans are included in amounts outstanding and income has been included to the extent collected. 27 STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES Regulatory Capital and Ratios Ratios and Minimums (dollars in thousands) For Capital To Be Well Actual Adequacy Minimum Capitalized ----------------- ------------------ ----------------- As of September 30, 2003 Amount Ratio Amount Ratio Amount Ratio ---------------------------------------------- ------- ----- -------- ----- -------- ----- Total Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets): The Company $157,239 14.92% $ 84,320 8.00% $105,400 10.00% The bank 125,886 12.45 80,886 8.00 101,108 10.00 Tier 1 Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets): The Company 144,048 13.67 42,160 4.00 63,240 6.00 The bank 113,229 11.20 40,443 4.00 60,665 6.00 Tier 1 Leverage Capital (to Average Assets): The Company 144,048 9.19 62,705 4.00 78,382 5.00 The bank 113,229 7.42 61,000 4.00 76,250 5.00 As of December 31, 2002 ---------------------------------------------- Total Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets): The Company $144,054 15.34% $ 75,134 8.00% $93,917 10.00% The bank 105,265 11.76 71,632 8.00 89,540 10.00 Tier 1 Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets): The Company 132,292 14.09 37,567 4.00 56,350 6.00 The bank 94,059 10.50 35,816 4.00 53,724 6.00 Tier 1 Leverage Capital (to Average Assets): The Company 132,292 8.95 59,153 4.00 73,942 5.00 The bank 94,059 6.55 57,437 4.00 71,796 5.00 28 ITEM 3. 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 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, primarily focusing on the longer term structure of the balance sheet. 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, 2003, is presented on page 32. The results of both the income simulation analysis and the gap analysis, reveal that net interest income would increase during periods of rising interest rates and decrease during periods of falling interest rates. 29 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 ALCO, governing the use of off-balance sheet financial instruments, including approved counterparties, risk limits and appropriate 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 utilizes income simulation models to complement its traditional gap analysis. While the 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 that 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. 30 As of September 30, 2003, the model indicated the impact of a 200 basis point parallel and pro rata rise in rates over twelve months would approximate a 3.15% ($2,398,000) increase in net interest income, while the impact of a 200 basis point decline in rates over the same period would approximate a 5.94 % ($4,516,000) decline from an unchanged rate environment. 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 can 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 in any year 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. At September 30, 2003, the parent company's short-term debt, consisting principally of commercial paper used to finance ongoing current business activities, was approximately $22,846,000. The parent company had cash, interest-bearing deposits with banks and other current assets aggregating $40,026,000 and back-up credit lines with banks of $24,000,000. Since 1979, the parent company has had no need to use available back-up lines of credit. While the Company's past performance is no guarantee of the future, management believes that the Company's funding sources (including dividends from its subsidiaries) and the bank's funding sources will be adequate to meet their liquidity and capital requirements in the future. 31 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 classified based on the earliest repricing period. Amounts are presented in thousands. Repricing Date --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- More than More than 3 Months 3 Months 1 Year to Over Nonrate or Less to 1 Year 5 Years 5 Years Sensitive Total ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ASSETS Interest-bearing deposits with other banks $ 2,447 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 2,447 Investment securities 22,701 1,946 46,524 503,552 8,704 583,427 Loans, net of unearned discounts Commercial and industrial 536,223 2,258 6,563 9 (644) 544,409 Loans to depository institutions 20,000 - - - - 20,000 Lease financing 757 8,590 145,595 6,567 (19,286) 142,223 Real estate 152,233 14,852 42,977 25,470 (6) 235,526 Installment 12,553 88 1,237 100 (9) 13,969 Noninterest-earning assets and allowance for loan losses - - - - 114,044 114,044 ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ Total Assets 746,914 27,734 242,896 535,698 102,803 1,656,045 ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Interest-bearing deposits Savings [1] - - 27,264 - - 27,264 NOW [1) - - 116,601 - - 116,601 Money market [1] 141,605 33,740 - - 175,345 Time - domestic 175,521 125,010 72,587 3 - 373,121 - foreign 1,355 1,645 - - - 3,000 Securities sold u/a/r - cust 79,020 543 - - - 79,563 Securities sold u/a/r - deal 64,063 - - - - 64,063 Federal funds purchased - - - - - - Commercial paper 22,759 - - - - 22,759 Other short-term borrowings 3,142 30,000 - - - 33,142 Long-term borrowings - FHLB - - 15,000 100,000 - 115,000 Noninterest-bearing liabilities and shareholders' equity - - - - 646,187 646,187 ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity 487,465 157,198 265,192 100,003 646,187 1,656,045 ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ Net Interest Rate Sensitivity Gap $ 259,449 $ (129,464) $ (22,296) $ 435,695 $ (543,384) $ - ============ ============ ============ ============ ============ ============ Cumulative Gap September 30, 2003 $ 259,449 $ 129,985 $ 107,689 $ 543,384 $ - $ - ============ ============ ============ ============ ============ ============ Cumulative Gap September 30, 2002 $ 156,673 $ 81,862 $ (19,544) $ 464,151 $ - $ - ============ ============ ============ ============ ============ ============ Cumulative Gap December 31, 2002 $ 260,814 $ 167,170 $ 98,271 $ 522,344 $ - $ - ============ ============ ============ ============ ============ ============ [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 run-off experience. 32 ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES An evaluation was carried out under the supervision and with the participation of the Company's management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934). Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer concluded that the design and operation of these disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this report. No changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) occurred during our most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting. ITEM 5. OTHER EVENTS In this Form 10-Q, the consolidated balance sheet as of September 30, 2003, the consolidated statements of income, average balance sheets and rate volume analysis for the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2003, together with management's discussion and analysis thereto, are different from the Company's earnings press release issued on October 20, 2003 for the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2003 due to the Financial Accounting Standards Board decision on November 5, 2003 to indefinitely defer the adoption of SFAS No. 150 with respect to certain mandatorily redeemable capital securities. The revisions had no impact on the Company's financial position or results of operations previously announced in its quarterly earnings release. 33 PART II - OTHER INFORMATION 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 31 Certifications of the CEO and CFO pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(a) 32 Certifications of the CEO and CFO required by Section 1350 of chapter 63 of title 18 of the U.S. Code (b) Reports on Form 8-K: In a report on Form 8-K dated July 17, 2003 and filed on July 18, 2003, the Company reported, under Item 5. "Other Events" and under Item 7. "Financial Statements, Pro Forma Financial Information and Exhibits", the press release announcing the results of operations for the quarter and six months ended June 30, 2003. In a report on Form 8-K dated July 22, 2003 and filed on July 22, 2003, the Company reported, under Item 5. "Other Events" and under Item 7. "Financial Statements, Pro Forma Financial Information and Exhibits", the press release announcing a presentation on July 29, 2003 by John C. Millman, President of Sterling Bancorp, as part of the Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Inc. Honor Roll and Fourth Annual Community Bank Investor Conference. In a report on Form 8-K dated August 20, 2003 and filed on August 20, 2003, the company reported under Item 5. "Other Events" and under Item 7. "Financial Statements Pro Forma Financial Information and Exhibits", the press release announcing that the Company's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer would ring The Opening Bell (TM) at The New York Stock Exchange on August 21, 2003. In a report on Form 8-K/A dated August 21, 2003 and filed on August 21, 2003, the Company reported under Item 5. "Other Events" and under Item 7. "Financial Statements Pro Forma Financial Information and Exhibits", the press release announcing the declaration of a five - for - four stock split distributed on September 10, 2003 to shareholders of record on September 1, 2003. The Company also announced the declaration of a quarterly cash dividend of $0.19 payable September 30, 2003 to shareholders of record on September 19, 2003. 34 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 11/14/03 /s/ Louis J. Cappelli -------- ------------------------------ Louis J. Cappelli Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Date 11/14/03 /s/ John W. Tietjen -------- ----------------------------- John W. Tietjen Executive Vice President, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer 35 STERLING BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES EXHIBIT INDEX Incorporated Sequential Exhibit Herein By Filed Page Number Description Reference To Herewith No. ------ ----------- ------------ -------- --- 11 Statement re: Computation X of Per Share Earnings 31 Certifications of the CEO and CFO pursuant to X Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(a) 32 Certifications of the CEO and CFO required by X Section 1350 of chapter 63 of title 18 of the U.S. Code 36